Vera Rubin Observatory Aims to Revolutionize Astronomy

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Vera C. Rubin Observatory is set to unveil new perspectives of the universe

Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The atmosphere above Celopachen, a mountain in Chile standing over 2600 meters high, is sparse. Taking a trip up the stairs inside the dome of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory requires a breath. It’s cool, serene, immensely spacious—and then the entire dome rotates, revealing the sky.

As night envelops the landscape, the stars multiply, more abundant than I’ve ever witnessed. The Milky Way glows vibrantly, and I spot the small Magellanic Cloud, one of our galaxy’s companions. The Rubin telescope, however, dominates the scene—it’s massive, boasting the world’s largest digital cameras and lenses, with a weight of 350 tonnes. This reflective telescope gathers light through its mirror, with the largest mirror measuring 8.4 meters in diameter, designed to fit snugly through the 8.5-meter wide tunnel leading to the summit.

Despite its impressive heft, the telescope is swift, poised to transform our understanding of our solar system, galaxies, and the universe. Every three nights, it captures a survey of the Southern Sky. While previous sky investigations took weeks or months, Rubin accomplishes this in just half the time, providing a sort of cosmic time-lapse.

“By photographing the sky every three days, we can layer those images to delve deeper,” explains scientist Kevin Rail. “Thus, a decade from now, you’ll delve into the universe’s inner workings and its structure,” he adds.

Unraveling that structure is among the observatory’s goals, focusing on how dark matter distorts the universe. Bella Rubin, the namesake astronomer, pioneered this quest in the 1970s through galaxy rotation observations that indicated visible matter was but a fraction of what exists. She noted that stars at a galaxy’s edge were zipping by too quickly, contradicting Kepler’s Law, which suggested they should move at slower velocities compared to those near the galactic center.

After extensive observation and calculations, the conclusion was clear: an unseen entity must be present—this is now known as dark matter. Astronomers believe it comprises nearly five times more mass than visible matter, and its gravitational pull shapes the universe we observe.

“Visible matter actually traces dark matter’s gravitational field, not the other way around,” says Stephanie Deppe at the observatory. Galaxies are perceived to exist in what astronomers term the cosmic web, interlinked by dark matter filaments that capture the stars we can observe. Rubin’s images offer unparalleled views of this web.

This mapping effort aids in deciphering dark matter’s nature—whether it’s composed of hot, light, fast-moving particles or colder, aggregated ones. “We seek small disturbances, like kinks in stellar streams,” Deppe explains. These disturbances indicate sections where dark matter is concentrated within filaments. Understanding the mass from these observations refines our knowledge of dark matter’s characteristics. Moreover, deciphering the cosmic web’s structure can enhance our comprehension of dark energy, the force accelerating the universe’s expansion.

Summit staff will install the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s commissioning camera in August 2024.

Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/H. Stockebrand

The enthusiasm for precision astronomy is palpable at the observatory. During my observation night, excitement buzzes through the air, particularly in the kitchen adjoining the control room. One of the operators, practically bouncing with energy, exclaims, “We hope the sky is clear tonight!” This term refers to opening the telescope shutter for imaging. “Indeed, we do,” replies a colleague, grinning over their tea. As twilight descends, we all hope for a cloudless sky.

When the clouds part, the control room buzzes with energy. An operator continues fine-tuning the telescope for optimum image focus. Every 30 seconds brings a new image, followed by the sound of the shutter opening and closing—like a hushed reverberation through the dome as it swiftly captures and moves on to the next section of the sky, constructing an intricate cosmic puzzle.

Suddenly, an unexpected glitch occurs. To maximize observational efficiency, the observatory employs an automated program that directs the telescope based on weather and moon phases, but this system stumbles momentarily. Operators venture through the rugged terrain alongside scientists at base camp, collaborating to troubleshoot the issue. After about 20 minutes, adjustments are made, and normal operations resume, with the rhythm of the shutter beginning anew.

“This is one of our best nights; everything is flowing smoothly—this data is excellent,” reveals Eli Rikov, the calibration scientist. “I’m optimistic the processors will produce high-quality scientific images.”

Once captured, images embark on a rapid journey around the globe. They traverse down the mountain on an extensive network of 103,000 km of fiber optic cables, reaching the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans before arriving in the US. Images pass through a central hub in Florida before arriving at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California.

Each captured image consists of about 32 gigapixels, roughly the equivalent of a 4K movie, and they arrive in approximately 10 seconds. William Omlan, overseeing data on the observation deck, then disseminates this data to facilities in the UK and France, ensuring it reaches scientists worldwide.

Most urgent analyses focus on rapidly moving celestial bodies. The night sky is in constant flux, exhibiting blips and changes in unpredictable patterns. The Rubin Observatory is uniquely equipped to capture these dynamic movements, allowing for near-real-time detection of rapidly changing objects. The telescope tracks asteroids and comets racing across the night sky, including those within the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as trans-Neptunian objects.

“Currently, we are aware of thousands of these objects,” says the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud researcher. “Rubin will likely increase that count tenfold.”

The observatory also plays a crucial role in monitoring potential threats from near-Earth objects, aiming to expand our knowledge from about 30,000 to an estimated 100,000. It has even succeeded in capturing fast-moving interstellar objects, such as Oumuamua, which passed through our solar system in 2017, and Borisov, which followed in 2019.

This extensive census of the solar system might also solve the enigma of Planet 9. Intriguing evidence suggests a body—5 to 10 times the mass of Earth—exists in the outer solar system, inferred from Kuiper Belt objects exhibiting peculiar yet similar orbits. Simulations propose that such a planet could be influencing these orbits, though direct evidence remains elusive.

That may soon change. “Rubin’s data will either uncover definitive evidence of Planet 9 or eliminate any existing doubts,” predicts Deppe.

However, there’s also uncertainty looming over American science funding. The observatory receives joint funding from the US Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the latter having faced draconian budget cuts proposed by over half. When I inquired about the potential implications, staff members seemed nonplussed. “I prefer not to speculate on the effects of the President’s budget request for fiscal year 2026,” an NSF spokesperson told me later.

For now, though, back in the control room, financial concerns take a backseat. Approaching midnight, the shift continues. Scientists work diligently until 3 am or 4 am, yet fatigue seems nonexistent. Occasionally, someone brightens the room with, “Look at these stunning images!”

The first published image emerged on June 23rd, showcasing a complete view of the southern sky obtained every three nights. “The vision is to create an observatory that can capture all the data the world wishes for.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Researchers Utilize Enhanced DNA Techniques to Classify Breast Cancer

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is recognized as one of the more aggressive and challenging breast cancers to treat. Lacking the three standard hormonal markers associated with estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2, this absence complicates the selection of effective treatment strategies for healthcare providers.

Researchers characterize TNBC as a collection of various diseases with distinct molecular characteristics that impact how the cancer manifests and its response to treatments. They utilize specific genes and gene products to categorize TNBC types. It is important to note that there are overlaps in the current classifications, which might be explained by the presence and levels of particular chemical molecules on the DNA. These molecules play a role in regulating whether genes are activated or deactivated in cells through processes known as DNA methylation.

In this study, researchers from Sweden explored how the distribution and patterns of DNA methylation delineate different forms of TNBC, influencing tumor behavior and interactions with the body’s immune system and its treatment responses. They analyzed 235 tumor samples from various patients in Sweden, ensuring that the data was refined to focus solely on cancerous cells rather than healthy tissue.

Employing a statistical technique known as Non-negative matrix factorization, they identified two primary categories of TNBC based on DNA methylation patterns: basal and nonbasal groups. This categorization aligns with previous classifications grounded in how cells interpret gene functions, termed gene expression. The basal group comprised tumors that were typically more active in immune responses and had a higher incidence of mutations linked to DNA repair issues, notably involving the common BRCA1 gene. Conversely, although the nonbasal group lacked hormone receptors, they exhibited increased activity in genes that influence hormonal responses.

Utilizing statistical assessments, the researchers subdivided each major group into smaller subtypes. Within the basal tumors, they identified three subgroups, referred to as basal1, basal2, and basal3, characterized by varying levels of immune cell activity and gene expression profiles. One specific subgroup, Basal3, demonstrated elevated expression of proteins that aid tumors in evading the immune system. The researchers found that specific DNA methylation patterns could activate or deactivate these proteins, indicating that patients with basal tumors might benefit from existing cancer treatments targeting this protein. The Basal2 subgroup expressed genes that inhibit immune activity, while the Basal1 subgroup displayed no significant immune-related behavior.

In the nonbasal category, researchers distinguished two subtypes: nonbasal1 and nonbasal2. Both of these subgroups were more prevalent among older patients and exhibited lower survival rates compared to the basal subgroup. The Nonbasal2 group encompassed tumors that influenced hormonal activity and responses to fatty treatments, whereas the Nonbasal1 group experienced more frequent disruptions in genes associated with tumor suppression.

Across all groups, researchers identified numerous genes whose methylation could modulate tumor growth and responses to the surrounding environment. To validate their findings in a broader context, they sourced independent tumor datasets from global databases and conducted similar classification analyses. They confirmed that the identified methylation subtypes appeared in other TNBC samples and correlated methylation patterns with tumor defense mechanisms, pinpointing strategies TNBC tumors may utilize to evade the immune system.

The researchers also acknowledged several limitations of their study. Their focus on DNA methylation represents just one of many chemical modifications that can influence TNBC behavior. Some of the independent datasets utilized originated from general breast cancer studies and were not exclusively focused on TNBC. Additionally, a significant portion of the data came from Western and Northern European populations, which may limit the applicability of the findings to individuals from other ethnicities. They emphasized the necessity for larger and more diverse datasets to gain a comprehensive understanding of TNBC subtypes.

In conclusion, the researchers posited that examining DNA methylation in patient samples could effectively categorize TNBC into meaningful subtypes, each with unique biological features, immune environments, and potential treatment responses. They recommended that future studies explore the origins of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, and how these alterations contribute to variations in TNBC subtypes.

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Source: sciworthy.com

The Female Body Within a Male-Dominated World: An Anatomical Exploration…

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The #MeToo movement against women’s sexual abuse gained traction in 2017, leading to what I term the #Anatomytoo moment, during which the derogatory anatomical label attached to female genitals was challenged and deemed unacceptable.

The long-used term for the vulva, referring to the external genitalia of women, was “Pudendum,” a word that historically reflected a biased view within the male-dominated medical field. Interestingly, “Pudendum” traces back to the Latin word Pudere, meaning “to be ashamed,” casting the female anatomy in a negative light as something shameful.

What’s even more unfortunate is that for centuries, “Pudendum” was applied equally to both men’s and women’s external genitals. Over time, men shed the associated stigma, leaving women to bear the burden of this label alone.

Consequently, it’s not surprising that many women feel discomfort regarding their genitals. A UK study revealed that 65% of young women struggle to use terms like “vulva” or “vagina.” This part of their own body often remains unnamed.

Names carry significant weight, as reflected in the evolution of the term “Pudendum.” As a result, it was removed from official anatomical terminology in 2019.

But “Pudendum” is just the surface issue in the broader context of male dominance in anatomy. Female anatomy features a considerable number of anatomical eponyms, which are body parts named after individuals, predominantly male.

A review of 700 anatomical terms identified that 424 were named after male doctors. Among the few exceptions, there was only one woman and several mythological figures and historical leaders, highlighting the gender imbalance.

This systemic patriarchy is unsurprising, given that in 1847, when many of these terms were coined, women were seldom represented in the study of internal anatomy, particularly regarding female reproductive organs.

For example, Gabriele Falloppio is commemorated in the namesake tube connecting the uterus to the ovaries, while Skene’s Glands, named after Alexander Skene, contribute to female ejaculation. The “G” in G-spot honors Ernst Gräfenberg, whereas Bartholin’s gland is named for Caspar Bartholin the younger, linked to sexual lubrication near the vaginal entrance.

The prevalence of masculine terminology is one reason why medical professionals increasingly favor more precise terms. For instance, Bartholin’s glands are referred to as the larger vestibular glands, and Skene’s glands are called paraglandular glands, while the fallopian tube is termed the uterine tube.

Despite this push for change, anatomical eponyms remain widely used in both medical practice and everyday language. Terms like “Fallopian Tube” have yet to be fully supplanted by more contemporary terminology. Moreover, even when linguistic adjustments are made, vestiges of the original terminology often stick around.

While “Pudendum” is eliminated, the equally charged term “Pudendal” survives, referring to female nerves, arteries, veins, and canals, perpetuating remnants of male-centric anatomical language. Most people remain unfamiliar with these terms.

Unlike “vagina,” which is derived from the Latin word for “sheath,” suggesting an alternative name of “vagina,” rebranding this term isn’t on the agenda. However, many still overlook the fact that other female reproductive parts also deserve recognition.

For pudendal nerves and arteries, only one term in the anatomical lexicon encapsulates their enduring stigma: it remains an embarrassment.

Adam Taor is the author of Bodypedia: A Short Overview of Human Anatomical Curiosities

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Intimate Encounters with Strangers: Are We Stifling Personal Growth?

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

How private are our lives in a highly surveilled world?

Jan Klos/Millennium Images, UK

Intimate with Strangers
Tiffany Jenkins (Picador (UK, now available, US, July 15)))

What has become of our cherished privacy? In today’s world, nearly every detail about us is known, traded, and exploited by social media platforms. Click. I have the amusing attire your self-righteous uncle crafted this morning. Click. I have a friend lamenting the promotion I missed out on. Click. Indeed, there are those strangers who will share their bedrooms with you—for a price.

One might expect a book titled Intimate with Strangers: Ascending and Descending in Private Life to provide opinions on this subject—but it does so in a way that is richer and more thoughtfully considered than most discussions you’ll find.

Author Tiffany Jenkins, a cultural historian, states, “Many attribute the rise of self-indulgent individuals broadcasting their lives online to narcissism, as well as tech companies that consume personal data, while overlooking the deeper changes at play.” This book explores those profound shifts.

Jenkins chronicles these developments primarily in the 20th century, revealing their multifaceted nature. The chapters address everything from the invasive capabilities of small cameras to the disruptive effects of Kodak Veeder to the significant implications of Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky, which turned private matters into political upheaval.

Key highlights include the narratives of radical American groups in the 1960s, such as Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), who advocated for personal freedom yet ironically curtailed it. One activist couple even faced criticism for the “crime” of “Flagrant Monogamy,” as SDS yearned for purer and more innocent participants.

Even scientific thinkers aren’t exempt from this narrative. The early 20th-century activism of Paul Lazarsfeld, Edward Bernays, and Ernest Dichter focused on transforming people into data points. Though they meant no harm, their work undermined the notion that certain aspects of life should remain private and untouchable by corporate interests. The same can be said for Alfred Kinsey’s notorious research into human sexuality. Is nothing sacred?

We have allowed our two worlds to be compromised and blurred. The private is increasingly becoming public.

However, privacy did not disappear outright in the 20th century. Instead, it adapted, evolved, and resisted. Jenkins references Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Katz v. United States, emphasizing that her analysis encompasses a complex mix of laws, cultures, technologies, and even housing policies.

Nonetheless, Jenkins concludes that privacy has indeed diminished overall, particularly as the first half of the book meticulously charts its decline.

The discussion begins with the revolutionary appeals for personal conscience by Martin Luther and Thomas More in the 16th century, tracing through various religious and personal freedoms of the 17th century. Intimate with Strangers thoroughly examines these developments over the centuries.

Specifically regarding the 18th century, Jenkins argues that it marked the “arrival of the public and private domains.” In fact, she posits that this evolution may overshadow all other Enlightenment developments. This is a historical account that offers novel insights into our shared past.

It ultimately brings us back to our increasingly surveilled reality. “Had there been a clear demarcation between public and private realms at the inception of the World Wide Web, our online landscape would be vastly different today,” Jenkins asserts. Since the 18th century, we’ve allowed for a blurring of lines where privacy increasingly encroaches upon public life.

And what do we stand to lose? Quite a lot—though not everything is gone. “Originality begins in private,” Jenkins reflects in the epilogue. From this, we can infer that Intimate with Strangers began with precious privacy.

Peter Hoskin is the book and culture editor for Prospect Magazine

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Can Any Nation Safeguard Against Ukrainian-Style Drone Smuggling?

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Image captured by a Ukrainian drone during operation

upi/alamy

On June 1, Ukraine made headlines with a daring strike on Russian air bases. Utilizing inexpensive, compact drones concealed within trucks that had ventured deep into Russian territory, Ukraine successfully targeted numerous strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons, resulting in a loss of $7 billion in military assets.

The drone swarm operation, dubbed Operation Spider-Web, showcased remarkable military strategy while also exposing the vulnerabilities that defense leaders globally may soon confront.

“Currently, there’s a 100% likelihood of a small drone assault on air bases in the US or UK,” stated Robert Bunker, a consultant for US firm C/O Futures. “A group with intention and capability is needed. This is a very modest expectation.”

The Ukrainian security service SBU reported that 117 first-person view drones were deployed in the attack, each carrying several kilograms of explosives provided by racing quadcopters. Last year, countries produced approximately 1.5 million of these drones for battlefield applications, each costing a few hundred dollars. Although they typically have a range of about 20 km, Operation Spider-Web demonstrated their capability to reach target areas and operate remotely.

The assault did not catch US defense analysts off-guard. According to Zachary Karenbourne, who authored a 2019 analysis on potential threats to strategic bombers: “Ukraine’s operation had a much broader scope and impact than I anticipated. I initially believed such an attack was merely part of a larger assault on enemy nuclear assets, but Ukraine managed to neutralize 34% of its nuclear bomber fleet with an exceptionally coordinated effort.”

What steps should nations undertake to shield themselves against comparable assaults? Generally, there are three strategies: physical barriers, electronic defenses, and kinetic measures.

The initial approach seems straightforward—erect physical defenses to deter drones. Some Russian aircraft targeted by Ukraine were stationed in bays protected by concrete blast walls or earthen berms meant to shield against ground explosions. However, these measures do not safeguard against aerial strikes. Russia is currently racing to construct hardened aircraft shelters, which are costly, running into millions and sufficiently large for fighters. There was an assumption that larger strategic bombers could forgo this protection, as they were expected to remain distant from frontlines and threats.

Anti-drone nets represent a more economical solution and have been adopted by both Ukraine and Russia in battlefield scenarios. Reportedly, Russian authorities have recommended implementing such barriers in airspace. However, following the Ukrainian strike, the challenge is that these nets can be easily dismantled.

“The net provides decent defense against initial UAS [Uncrewed Aerial System] attacks,” Bunker notes. Yet, given the low cost of drones, attackers can launch a first wave to neutralize the net before proceeding with subsequent strikes.

What about electronic defenses? Both Russia and Ukraine are currently utilizing jamming technologies to disrupt the communication between drones and their operators. While this can be effective in wartime, jammers typically function over limited ranges, necessitating comprehensive coverage of the airbase. “They need to be deployed and monitored around the clock,” Bunker indicates.

This approach has its complications. The operations of Spider-Web employed commercial mobile networks, but attackers can utilize any frequency to command the drone, so blanket jamming of all channels might not be feasible. “Jammers can disrupt friendly communications,” warns Karenbourne. “To forestall such assaults, we may have to endure increased risks to our own operations.”

Moreover, the SBU claims that the drones were designed to anticipate jamming and were outfitted with AI systems enabling them to reach their targets autonomously. Such drones are virtually impervious to jamming.

This leaves kinetic measures as a final defense. Known as shooting down drones, Russian airfields were fortified against conventional aerial attacks via surface-to-air missile systems and mobile anti-aircraft units, but these were ill-equipped to detect or engage small drones.

“A weaponry system designed for this task demands advanced acquisition and targeting capabilities to be effective against armed drones,” Bunker states. “If operated by humans, they need to be distributed strategically across the facility for defense and manned continuously.”

Auto-defense mechanisms present promising options, and Ukraine is already deploying AI-driven anti-drone machine gun turrets to safeguard cities from Russian assaults involving substantial Shahed drones. However, at an expense of around $100,000 each, these turrets can be easily surpassed by smaller, more affordable drones utilized in the Spider-Web operation. “A swarm of drones could well succeed,” Karenbourne admits.

In summary, while there is no definitive solution, militaries urgently need to discover ways to mitigate this looming threat. A recent statement from a US Air Force General to the Senate Committee noted that in 2024 alone, over 350 unauthorized drones infiltrated military installations across the United States. Moreover, American bases in the UK have reported similar drone incursions.

“While many may be hobbyists, at least some are definitely adversaries,” adds Karenbourne. These hostile drones are likely engaging in intelligence-gathering rather than attempts to strike. “If we were in a conflict with China, that might change dramatically.”

This indicates that operations akin to Spider-Web could easily be replicated, in Russia or elsewhere. “This issue extends far beyond a significant vulnerability,” Bunker concludes. “Current defenses cannot be adequately reinforced. The situation is deteriorating rapidly.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists Seek Public Support Amid Trump Administration Funding Cuts

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While scientists pursuing cancer therapies find ample support, those researching diseases in potatoes face greater challenges in garnering attention and funding.

The Trump administration seems to have adopted the notion that many scientific pursuits are viewed as unnecessary or opaque, resulting in billions in proposed cuts to research funding.

Amidst this crisis, researchers are exploring innovative ways to garner public and political backing to counteract funding reductions.

A collective of Cornell graduate students aims to reshape public perceptions of science. They have enlisted over 500 researchers from all 50 states to write OP-EDs for local newspapers, which are set to be published next week. This initiative was proposed by Emma Scales, a Cornell doctoral student involved in the campaign.

“We’re engaging with people who are frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding funding allocations,” Scales explained. “I understand that I’m one of those who utilizes your resources. I apologize for not communicating better, but I’d appreciate feedback about my work.”

Isaco di Tomasi, Hannah Frank, Emma Scales, and Alex Rand lead the Cornell Policy Club, coordinating McClintock’s letters.
Courtesy Emma Scale

The initiative, known as McClintock Characters, is one of several ongoing efforts by graduate students and faculty aimed at the same goal.

This reflects a mainstay belief that researchers cannot assume public support is a given. If proactive measures aren’t taken soon, many are beginning to realize that the public’s trust in scientists is waning, and funding may not be reinstated.

Science Homecoming letter-writing campaigns urge scholars to emphasize the importance of government investments in scientific endeavors. The new nonprofit, Stand Up for Science, is organizing demonstrations at State Fairs and Farmers Markets this summer, along with community Teach-Ins and Open Lab Days. Another new group, Your Neighborhood Scientist, publishes essays by researchers and fosters community-based dialogues about science.

Audrey Dorottos, a neuroscientist from the University of Pennsylvania and co-founder of Your Neighborhood Scientist, sees her work as a means for scientists to express their enthusiasm.

“We aren’t just contributing static noise; we aim to humanize scientists, which is a fundamental objective,” she said.

Di Tomasi is delving into the fungal disease that contributed to the potato famine in Ireland.
Courtesy Isako di Tomassi

The motivation behind the McClintock letters emerged in February when Isako Di Tomassi, a plant pathology doctoral student, expressed his frustrations online after losing his PhD advisor at the US Department of Agriculture due to recent significant government layoffs.

While Di Tomassi encountered some sympathy online, one commenter remarked that funding cuts were beneficial since they halted “frivolous research,” and many others expressed confusion regarding the purpose of their studies.

Di Tomasi and Scales began brainstorming solutions through the Cornell Advanced Science and Policy Club to facilitate researchers sharing their narratives.

They organized these efforts in tribute to the late Nobel Prize-winning cytologist Barbara McClintock, timing their actions for her birthday on June 16. Her research altered scientists’ understanding of genetic inheritance in corn, laying the groundwork for advancements in treating genetic disorders in humans.

Barbara McClintock, a pioneer in genetic research at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in Long Island, NY, circa 1947.
AP

“Barbara McClintock is incredibly renowned,” Di Tomasi remarked.

Nevertheless, Di Tomasi noted that the aim is to bridge the gap between scientific professionals and public understanding, emphasizing that even routine experiments can be pivotal for medical and scientific advancements.

Researchers have committed to discussing a variety of topics, from breast cancer metastasis to memory formation and sustainable grape cultivation. Based on the collective audience sizes targeted by the organizers’ chosen news outlets, they anticipate reaching 8 million potential readers.

During a webinar on June 6, Katherine Xue, a microbiologist at the University of California, Irvine, guided about 100 participants on composing OP-EDs, using a 2015 OP-ED by Newt Gingrich advocating for increased research funding as a reference.

Xue encouraged participants to avoid technical jargon and to inject personal elements. She intends to write an article for her hometown newspaper in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, highlighting how her high school internships fueled her interest in microbiology.

“As scientists, we are conditioned to maintain a sense of detachment, but this approach has limitations,” Xue explained to NBC News. “Many people don’t see scientists as relatable, nor do they grasp what we are doing and why. This can lead to distrust in science.”

Recent surveys back up her assertions, revealing that while 76% of Americans express confidence in scientists, this number has dwindled from 87% in 2020, as reported by a Pew Research Center study. The report also noted that a majority of Americans believe scientists are poor communicators, and nearly half feel that scientists view themselves as superior.

The notion of supposedly frivolous research projects has long been a target for criticism. Some senators have highlighted what they perceive as wasteful spending in scientific research.

In a speech to Congress, Trump criticized what he considered absurdly funded projects backed by the Biden administration, including research misrepresented as making mice transgender (though in reality, it examined the effects of hormones on health and fertility). The White House defended the President’s comments.

In response to inquiries regarding the reduction of research funding, White House spokesperson Kush Desai stated that the administration is aligning with voter priorities. “The American people have tasked President Trump with recalibrating government expenditures to align with their values,” he clarified in an email. “The administration is committed to fulfilling this mandate.”

President Donald Trump criticized federally funded research during a congressional address on March 4th.
Allison Robbert/AFP via Getty Images

For her upcoming book, Salmon Cannon and Floating Frog, Carly Ann York, an animal behaviorist at Lenore Lynn University in North Carolina, spotlighted several scientists who have faced scrutiny to advocate for their research.

One professor included in the book reacted with humor to the label “waste” applied to her research by participating in collaborative efforts with fellow scholars, like creating a mini science fair on Capitol Hill, to share research insights on shrimp combat inspiring new body armor designs for humans.

Carly Ann York became committed to scientific communication after grappling with explaining her studies on squid physiology to others years ago.
Courtesy Carly York

“I hope more scientists adopt this mindset,” York stated. “It’s our responsibility to help the public comprehend how taxpayer money is utilized in research, what we do, and the impact of our work.”

Will the McClintock letters and similar initiatives achieve their intended results? While it’s uncertain how many students and faculty will participate, many participants hope their goals reach beyond immediate outcomes.

According to Michael Rubel, a physics professor at New York City College and a former Director of Public Relations for the American Physical Society, success hinges on sustained engagement with the public.

Rubel remarked that scientists should actively participate by attending community groups like Rotary clubs, churches, or PTA meetings.

“If researchers wait for the public to come to them, they will only engage a fraction of the population, and I doubt this will effect meaningful change,” he stated. “Meet audiences where they are. Understand what they value. You might be surprised.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

20 Million Clouds of Energy Particles Found Surrounding Distant Galaxy Clusters

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have identified the largest known cloud of energy particles encircling galaxy clusters, with around 20 million annual clouds around the galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9.

This new composite image, created using X-rays from NASA’s Chandra X-Ray Observatory (blue and purple), radio data from Meerkat Radio Telescope (orange and yellow), and optical images from Panstarrs (red, green, and blue), illustrates the giant galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9. Image credit: NASA/CXC/CFA/Rajpurohit et al. / panstarrs / sarao / meerkat / sao / n. wolk.

Located 5 billion light years from Earth in the Hydra constellation, PLCK G287.0+32.9 has garnered astronomers’ attention since its initial detection in 2011.

Prior research uncovered two bright relics, revealing a massive shock wave illuminating the cluster’s edges. However, the extensive, faint radio emissions filling the space between them went unnoticed.

Recent radio images have shown that the entire cluster is enveloped in a faint radio glow that is nearly 20 times the diameter of the Milky Way, suggesting an extraordinary and powerful phenomenon at play.

“We anticipated finding a bright pair of relics at the cluster’s edge. Found “The Harvard & Smithsonian Astrophysics Center” mentioned: “The Harvard & Smithsonian’s Astrophysics Center is a great way to help you get started,” Dr. Kamursh Rajprohit, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, noted.

“No energy particle clouds of this magnitude have been spotted in such galaxy clusters or anything comparable.”

Previous record holders, located around Abel 2255 in the Galaxy Cluster, spanned about 16.3 million light years.

In the central region of the cluster, Dr. Rajprohit and his team identified radio halos where frequencies of this scale are typically undetectable, marking the first discovery of size at 114 million light years at 2.4 GHz.

The findings posed questions for the team, providing compelling evidence of magnetic fields where cosmic ray electrons and magnetic fields extend throughout the cluster.

However, it remains uncertain how these electrons can accelerate over such vast distances.

“Very extended radio halos are seldom visible across most frequencies, as the electrons responsible for them tend to lose energy. They are aged and have cooled over time,” Dr. Rajpurohit stated.

“The discovery of this colossal halo has now led to a significant increase in radio emissions between the catastrophic impact and the rest of the cluster.”

“This suggests something is actively accelerating or re-accelerating the electrons, yet none of the usual explanations apply.”

“We suspect that extensive shock waves and turbulence may be contributing factors, but additional theoretical models are needed to arrive at a definitive conclusion.”

This discovery offers researchers a new pathway to investigate cosmic magnetic fields—one of the primary unanswered questions in astrophysics—helping to elucidate how magnetic fields shape the universe on the largest scales.

“We’re beginning to perceive space in ways we have never imagined,” Dr. Rajprohit emphasized.

“This necessitates a reevaluation of how energy and matter traverse through its grandest structures.”

“Observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, managed by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, reveal boxy structures, comet-like tails, and several other distinct features of the cluster’s hot gas, indicating that the cluster is highly disturbed.”

“Some of these X-ray features correspond with radio-detected structures, pointing to substantial shocks and turbulence driven by merging events, facilitating electron acceleration or re-acceleration.”

“In the core of a cluster, some of these features may arise from the merger of two smaller galaxy clusters, or an explosion triggered by an exceptionally large black hole, or a combination of both.”

Source: www.sci.news

Research: Triassic Reptiles May Have Migrated Across Unfavored Tropical Regions

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists employing a novel method of geographic analysis have theorized about the dispersion of paleo-ausauromorphs following the Permian mass extinction, one of the most significant climate events in Earth’s history.

Benggwigingasuchus erimicarminis Pansarassan Ocean Coast. Image credit: Jorge Gonzalez.

The earliest pale aurauromorphs, akin to contemporary reptiles, are perceived by many synthetic biologists as existing in dead zones, believed to thrive only in select regions due to extreme heat prevalent in tropical zones.

In a recent study, paleontologist Joseph Flannery Sutherland from the University of Birmingham, along with his team, uncovered clues on how these reptiles traversed the globe during the Triassic period.

The researchers employed a novel modeling technique grounded in landscape reconstruction and evolutionary phylogenies.

Having survived the extinction event, Archosauromorphs became a crucial component of the Triassic Earth’s ecosystem, paving the way for the emergence of dinosaurs.

Current research indicates their later success can be attributed to their ability to traverse up to 16,000 km (10,000 miles) across tropical dead zones to explore new ecosystems.

“Despite being among the direst climatic events in Earth’s timeline, resulting in the death of more species than in any other epoch, life persisted,” remarked Dr. Flannery Sasherland.

“The group of Archosauromorphs emerged from this event and became key players in shaping life thereafter.”

“The gaps in their fossil records are beginning to reveal insights into aspects of these reptiles we previously overlooked.”

“By utilizing the modeling system, we created images representing the condition of Archosauromorphs amid these gaps and their dispersal across the ancient landscape.”

“This research examined topography and routes mapped through both spatial and temporal dimensions, which we have coined as our ‘Tardis’ approach.”

“Our findings suggest these reptiles exhibit remarkable resilience to the extreme climates of the Panguian tropical dead zone, enabling them to endure these harsh conditions and reach distant regions.”

“This capacity to thrive in inhospitable tropical environments likely gave them the edge necessary to prosper in the Triassic landscape.”

“While life has often been dictated by environmental factors, integrating the limited and uncertain knowledge of ancient terrains with the incomplete understanding of extinct species is challenging,” stated Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.

“However, combining fossil data with reconstructed maps of the ancient world offers a means to address these challenges within the context of evolutionary trees.”

Study published in the journal Natural Ecology and Evolution.

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JT Flannery-Sutherland et al. The phylogeny, described as a landscape, illuminates the ecological radiation of early paleoasauromorph reptiles. Nat Ecol Evol Published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41559-025-02739-y

Source: www.sci.news

Hubble Explores the Surface Conditions of Uranus’s Moons: Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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A recent study by astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope aimed to uncover signs of interaction between Uranus’ magnetic environment and the surfaces of its four largest moons: Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon. The researchers predicted that, due to interactions with Uranus’ magnetosphere, the “leading” sides of these tidally locked moons should be brighter and more consistently illuminated compared to their “trailing” sides. This expectation stemmed from the belief that radiation darkening occurs on the trailing sides due to charged particles, such as electrons, captured in Uranus’ magnetosphere. However, their observations revealed no evidence of darkening on the trailing sides of the moons but found evident darkening on the leading side of the outer moon instead.

This web image displays Uranus alongside six of its 27 known moons (most of which are too small to be captured in this brief exposure). Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/J. DEPASQUALE, STSCI.

Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon are tidally locked, consistently presenting the same faces toward Uranus.

The hemisphere of the moon that faces the direction of its orbit is termed the leading hemisphere, while the side that turns away is the trailing hemisphere.

The initial hypothesis suggested that charged particles captured along the magnetic field lines would hit the trailing sides of each moon, leading to darkening of those hemispheres.

“They are working diligently to understand this phenomenon,” noted Dr. Richard Cartwright, a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Applied Physics at Johns Hopkins University.

“To start, Uranus has an axial tilt of 98 degrees relative to its orbit.”

“This significant tilt means Uranus is dramatically askew in relation to the planetary orbital plane. Completing its 84-year orbit, it rolls quite slowly around the sun.”

“Observations during the Voyager 2 flyby indicated that Uranus’ magnetosphere was tilted about 59 degrees from the satellite’s orbital plane, suggesting a further inclination in the magnetic field.”

Uranus’ magnetic field lines rotate more swiftly than the moons orbit the planet, resulting in the magnetic field lines continuously sweeping by the moons.

If the Uranus magnetosphere interacts with the moons, the charged particles should preferentially strike the surface of the leading side.

These charged particles and cosmic rays from our galaxy could potentially cause darkening effects on the trailing hemispheres of Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon, which could lead to the presence of carbon dioxide detected on these moons.

Astronomers anticipated that the trailing hemispheres would show greater darkness compared to the leading ones, particularly for the inner moons, Ariel and Umbriel.

However, the findings contradicted this expectation, revealing that the leading and trailing hemispheres of both Ariel and Umbriel are quite similar in brightness.

Conversely, researchers noted observable differences in the outer moons, Titania and Oberon.

In an intriguing twist, the brightness variations were opposite to their hypotheses.

Both outer moons exhibit a darker, reddish leading hemisphere contrasted against their brighter trailing hemispheres.

The research team suspects that dust from Uranus’ irregular satellites coats the leading hemispheres of Titania and Oberon.

Irregular satellites are celestial bodies characterized by large, eccentric, and inclined orbits inrelation to their parent planet’s equatorial plane.

Constant impacts from micrometeorites on Uranus’ irregular satellites eject small particles into orbits around the planet.

Over millions of years, this particulate matter drifts inward towards Uranus, eventually crossing the orbits of Titania and Oberon.

These outer moons effectively collect this dust, particularly on their leading hemispheres.

It’s analogous to an insect striking the windshield of a car as it drives down the freeway.

This accumulated material results in Titania and Oberon exhibiting darker, reddish leading hemispheres.

These outer moons appear to shield Ariel and Umbriel from dust, resulting in no noticeable brightness differences for the inner moons.

“I believe a similar process occurs within the Saturn system and possibly the Jupiter system,” stated Dr. Brian Holler, an astronomer at the Institute of Space Telescope Science.

“This represents some of the first evidence we’ve gathered regarding material exchanges between Uranus’ moons.”

“It supports an alternative theory involving dust accumulation. I wasn’t initially inclined to accept this hypothesis, but the data often takes you by surprise,” Dr. Cartwright remarked.

These revelations lead scientists to suspect that Uranus’ magnetosphere may possess a more complex structure than previously assumed.

While there may be interactions between Uranus’ moons and its magnetosphere, they do not seem to yield the predicted asymmetries in the leading and trailing hemispheres, contrary to initial expectations.

Unraveling this mystery will necessitate further exploration into the enigmatic Uranus, its magnetosphere, and its moons.

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Source: www.sci.news

Webb Discovers Two Young Exoplanets in the YSES-1 System

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have discovered a silicate cloud in the atmosphere of the exoplanet YSES-1C and a disk in the evasion facility surrounding the planet YSES-1B.

Artist rendering of the YSES-1 system, featuring a central sun-like star, YSES-1B with its dusty evasive disc (right), and YSES-1C’s atmospheric silicate clouds. Image credit: Ellis Bogut.

YSES-1 is a solar-type star located approximately 309 light-years away in the constellation of Masca.

Also referred to as TYC 8998-760-1 or 2mass J13251211-6456207, this star is roughly equivalent in mass to our Sun but is only 16.7 million years old.

The system comprises two planets, YSES-1B and YSES-1C.

These planets orbit their parent star at distances of 160 and 320 AU, making them more distant from their star than Jupiter and Saturn are from the Sun.

YSES-1B and C could exhibit redder hues compared to other exoplanets (or brown dwarfs), indicating distinct atmospheric properties.

While the system has been observed with various telescopes before the Webb, comprehensive observations were not achievable prior to the Webb program.

“Directly imaged exoplanets are the only types we can truly photograph,” stated Dr. Ebert Nazkin, a postdoctoral researcher at Trinity College Dublin.

“Typically, these exoplanets are younger, hotter from their formative layers, and astronomers observe this heat in the thermal infrared spectrum.”

Utilizing Webb’s spectroscopic capabilities, Dr. Nasedkin and his team obtained detailed spectra of the planets YSES-1B and YSES-1C.

These observations include the first direct detection of atmospheric silicate clouds on YSES-1C, validating prior hypotheses regarding its atmospheric structure.

These silicate clouds likely contain iron, which might contribute to rainfall on the planet.

Astronomers estimate that the cloud particles are less than 0.1 μm in size.

“Upon observing a smaller, more distant companion identified as YSES-1C, I detected a silicate cloud signature in the mid-infrared,” Dr. Nasedkin remarked.

“Composed primarily of sand-like particles, this represents the strongest silicate absorption feature documented in an exoplanet.”

“We believe this is connected to the planet’s youth. Younger planets tend to have slightly larger radii, and this expanded atmosphere enables clouds to absorb more light emitted by the planet.”

“We were able to employ detailed modeling to uncover the chemical makeup of these clouds as well as the size and shape of the cloud particles.”

The team also identified silicate disks surrounding YSES-1B, marking a rare observation of a substellar companion exoplanet.

This finding suggests that YSES-1B may be a relatively recently formed planet.

The discoveries enhance our understanding of the early stages of planetary formation and atmospheric development.

“The planets within the YSES-1 system are so widely separated that current formation theories cannot explain them. The discovery of distinct silicate clouds around YSES-1C and additional findings of small, hot, dusty materials around YSES-1B introduces further mystery and complexity regarding how planets form and evolve.”

The team’s results will be featured in the journal Nature this week.

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kkw hoch et al. Silicate cloud and evasive agent disks in the YSES-1 exoplanet system. Nature Published online on June 10th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09174-w

Source: www.sci.news

New Tyrannosaur Species Unveiled in Mongolia

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The newly discovered tyrannosaurid species, scientifically named Khankhuulu Mongoliensis, is recognized as the most notable ancestor of Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Khankhuulu Mongoliensis. Image credit: Julius Csotonyi.

Khankhuulu Mongoliensis roamed the Earth during the Cretaceous period approximately 86 million years ago.

This dinosaur was a medium-sized, swift predator that emerged after the extinction of other large predatory dinosaurs.

As the most famed ancestor, it exhibited numerous similarities with the later Tyrannosaurus descendants.

Resembling the size of a horse (750 kg), Khankhuulu Mongoliensis was two to three times smaller than its colossal descendants.

It featured small rudimentary horns that evolved into more significant attributes in species like Albertosaurus or Golgosaurus, likely used for mating displays and intimidation.

Characterized by a long, shallow skull, Khankhuulu Mongoliensis lacked the bone-crushing capabilities seen in Tyrannosaurus Rex.

This new species can be likened to mesopredators, similar to modern coyotes, utilizing speed and agility to capture prey.

“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis offers invaluable insights into the early stages of Tyrannosaurus evolution. We’ve observed numerous intriguing challenges in their evolutionary history,” remarked Jared Voris, a paleontologist at the University of Calgary.

Two partial skeletons of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis were discovered in the Baiansily Formation in southeastern Mongolia during 1972 and 1973.

Analysis of the specimens indicates that this new species is a close relative of the dinosaur group eutyrannosauria, serving as a direct ancestor to the giant, long-snouted tyrannosaurs and the shallower-nosed Ariolamini clade.

“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or closely related species likely migrated from Asia to North America approximately 85 million years ago,” stated Dr. Darla Zelenitsky, Ph.D. from the University of Calgary.

“Our findings suggest that a large-scale tyrannosaur was the first to evolve in North America due to this immigration event.”

“The results indicate that the migratory patterns of tyrannosaurs between Asia and North America were less frequent and more erratic than previously understood.”

“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or its relatives crossed the land bridge into North America, eventually evolving into the iconic apex predator, Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The fossil record indicates that Tyrannosaurus was exclusive to North America for millions of years before its lineage split in Asia, leading to two distinct groups.

One lineage evolved into larger apex predators, ultimately resulting in Tyrannosaurus Rex, while another developed into medium-sized, elongated species dubbed Pinocchiolex.

The discovery of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis is detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.

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JT Voris et al. The evolution of the new Mongolian tyrannosaur and Euthiranosaur. Nature published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08964-6

Source: www.sci.news

Trump’s EPA Aims to Eliminate Carbon Emission Regulations for Power Plants

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed on Wednesday its intention to lift current limitations on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.

EPA administrator Lee Zeldin stated at a press conference that the carbon pollution standards established during the Biden administration “stifle” economic growth in the name of environmental protection. Zeldin, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in January, emphasized that this announcement marks significant progress in US energy management and reassured that the agency would not allow power plants to generate more electricity than they currently do. Presently, the electricity sector represents a quarter of total US emissions. Latest EPA Emissions Data.

Zeldin also indicated that the EPA plans to roll back regulations related to mercury emissions from power plants set by the Biden administration.

Environmental advocates argue that the EPA’s proposal intensifies the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to reshape climate initiatives across various federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Energy, and the National Weather Service. In 2024, the Biden administration confirmed its commitment to address the climate crisis with the most stringent carbon pollution standards for power plants to date, which now face an uncertain future.

Gina McCarthy, who served as EPA administrator under President Joe Biden, described Zeldin’s announcement as a “political maneuver” in a statement on Wednesday that dismissed a “decade of scientific research and policy evaluation.”

“By allowing increased pollution, his legacy will be defined by those who cater to the fossil fuel industry at the cost of public health,” McCarthy stated.

On January 25th, Jeffrey Energy Center’s coal-fired power plant near Emmett, Kansas.
Charlie Riedel / AP file

“Science and daily observations tell us that removing pollution standards on the largest industrial gas polluters in the United States is a mistake,” stated Jill Tauber, vice president of climate and energy litigation at Earthjustice, a nonprofit currently involved in litigation against the Trump administration over various environmental rollbacks.

US power plants are significant sources of global carbon emissions. A report from the Institute of Policy Integrity at New York University indicates that if the US electricity sector were treated as a separate nation, it would rank as the sixth largest emitter worldwide.

During the first Trump administration, the EPA loosened several Obama-era greenhouse gas regulations for power plants, but this latest announcement marks a shift towards completely eliminating such standards. Zeldin is following through on his commitment made in March to challenge the “religion of climate change” by revisiting or rescinding 31 regulations related to tailpipe emissions, coal ash, and wastewater management from oil and gas.

The proposed regulations, which are now open for public commentary, are facing scrutiny from legal advocates and environmental organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council. They contend that the EPA has a legal obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Legal precedent mandates that greenhouse gases be controlled by the EPA under the Clean Air Act.

“We are closely monitoring whether the EPA will remove these crucial standards based on legal reasoning that is likely to be unviable,” remarked Meredith Hawkins, Federal Climate Law Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The NRDC is prepared to take legal action to ensure our right to breathe clean air is upheld.”

Reducing historic limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants could significantly influence global climate change, as well as have adverse effects on human health and the economy.

Harvey Writer, a lawyer and law professor at George Washington University, expressed hope that if the EPA pursues its planned deregulation, energy companies and utilities committed to renewable energy investments will challenge the Trump administration in court.

“The primary consequence of the proposed regulations is uncertainty and instability,” he stated. “It leaves stakeholders unsure about the next steps ahead. This complicates investment choices and affects job-related decisions, generating widespread market uncertainty.”

Greenhouse gas emissions from power plants extend beyond climate concerns. The combustion of fossil fuels emits carbon dioxide and various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and particulate matter. These pollutants are linked to higher instances of respiratory ailments and cardiovascular disease. Regulating carbon emissions from power plants can lead to a broader reduction in air pollution for communities near these facilities, according to Laura Kate Bender, vice president of national advocacy and public policy at the American Lung Association.

“This is a dual-edged sword. On the one hand, fossil fuel-fired power plants exacerbate climate change while simultaneously causing health issues,” Bender noted. “Climate change is a public health crisis, and mitigating carbon emissions in the electricity sector is crucial to addressing this emergency.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

European Probes Capture First Image of the Antarctic Sun

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Observations from the spacecraft have revealed the presence of both Arctic and Antarctic magnetic fields in the Sun’s southern hemisphere. This complex magnetic configuration is predicted to persist only temporarily during the solar maximum before undergoing a magnetic field reversal.

The European Space Agency (ESA) states that as the Sun transitions to its quieter solar minimum phase, this accumulation at the poles should occur gradually over time.

“The precise mechanics of this accumulation are still not fully understood. However, the Solar Orbiter has reached high latitudes at a crucial time to observe the entire process from a unique vantage point,” explains Sami Solanki, director of the Max Planck Institute for Solar Systems Research in Germany and a scientist working with the Solar Orbiter project.

While scientists have previously captured close-up images of the Sun, these were primarily taken from the Sun’s equator by various spacecraft and observatories.

The Solar Orbiter’s mission included a journey through the cosmos, featuring a close flyby of Venus, which allowed the spacecraft to tilt its orbit for a better view of the Sun’s higher latitudes.

The recently released image was captured in late March when the Solar Orbiter was positioned 15 degrees below the Sun’s equator, shortly followed by another observation at 17 degrees below the equator.

“We had no clear expectations for these initial observations. The Sun’s polarity is truly uncharted territory,” Solanki stated, as mentioned in a statement.

Launched in February 2020, the Solar Orbiter mission is a collaborative effort led by Europe in conjunction with NASA.

In the coming years, the Solar Orbiter’s trajectory is expected to tilt even more, providing increasingly direct views of the solar polar regions. According to ESA, the most impressive observations may still be on the horizon.

“This data will transform our understanding of solar magnetic fields, solar winds, and solar activity,” states Daniel Muller, the Solar Orbiter project scientist at ESA.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Disney and Universal Lawsuit Could Deal a Heavy Blow in the AI Copyright Battle

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Minion character originates from films produced by Universal Pictures.

Movie/Aramie

Disney and Universal have initiated a lawsuit against the AI image generator Midjourney, alleging widespread copyright infringement that enables users to produce images that “explicitly incorporate and mimic well-known Disney and Universal characters.” This lawsuit could mark a significant shift in the ongoing legal discourse surrounding AI-related copyright issues faced by book publishers, news outlets, and other content creators.

The Midjourney tool, which generates images based on textual prompts, boasts around 20 million users on its Discord platform. Users provide their input for creation.

In the lawsuit, the two film production giants provide examples where Midjourney can generate images surprisingly similar to characters it does not own rights to, like the Disney-owned Minions and characters from The Lion King. They assert that these results stem from the AI being trained on their copyrighted materials. They also contend that Midjourney “disregarded” their attempts to resolve these issues before resorting to legal action.

The complaint states, “Midjourney is a classic copyright-free rider and an endless source of plagiarism.” Midjourney has not yet issued a response to New Scientist‘s request for comment.

The lawsuit is applauded by Ed Newton Rex, a nonprofit advocate for fairer training practices within AI companies. “This is a monumental day for creators globally,” he comments. “The government has displayed unsettling tendencies toward legalizing intellectual property theft, potentially yielding to the intense lobbying from Big Tech.

Newton-Rex alleges that Midjourney engineers previously justified their actions on the grounds that the art had become “ossified.” “Fortunately, this absurd defense is unlikely to hold up in court,” he adds.

Legal experts express candid perspectives on Midjourney’s likelihood of success. “It’s Disney; thus, Midjourney is in a precarious position, please excuse my bluntness,” remarks Andres Guadams from the University of Sussex, UK.

Guadams emphasizes Disney’s resolute approach to safeguarding its intellectual property—rarely, but effectively—underscoring the necessity of this intervention. The film studio took action several months following other entities, such as news publishers, in their pursuit against AI companies for the alleged unauthorized use of their creations. Many of those disputes were resolved through licensing agreements between the AI firms and copyright holders.

“Media conglomerates are excited about potential breaches. The models have improved to such an extent that they can effortlessly create characters that come to mind,” states Guadams. He believes Disney is biding its time because “unlike publishers, they’re not simply seeking licenses to survive.”

The involvement of these two media powerhouses signals a pivotal moment at the intersection of AI and copyright, according to Guadams. “The fact that they are targeting Midjourney sends a clear message,” he states. Midjourney specializes in image generation exclusively, making it relatively small compared to major AI corporations. “This acts as a warning to larger entities, urging them to implement stronger protective measures.”

While many major AI companies incorporate image-generating features in their chatbots, they tend to impose stricter controls on users’ abilities to produce images featuring copyrighted characters through considerable limitations.

Disney, which generated $91 billion in revenue last year, is not seeking to profit from Midjourney. “This could act as a call for negotiations. Since AI is not going away, Disney may be setting a precedent for future business interactions,” notes Guadams.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Insight: Cancer’s Ability to Encircle Nerves Could Pave the Way for Improved Treatments

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

One of the most significant yet frequently overlooked success stories of this century is the increasing number of individuals who are surviving cancer.

Recent statistics affirm this; currently, half of all cancer patients in the UK survive for at least a decade, a notable improvement compared to five decades ago. The cancer mortality rate in the US has also decreased by 34% over two decades. In Australia, more than 70% of cancer patients survive for at least five years.

Several of these improvements can be attributed to reduced smoking rates and the establishment of national screening programs for various types of cancer. Additionally, advancements in treatment options have introduced groundbreaking therapies, especially in immunotherapy, encompassing monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and cancer vaccines.

Medications that focus on the interaction between cancer and our neurons show promising results

However, not all is positive. Despite encouraging advances, the incidence of cancer continues to rise, and there are indications that improvements in survival rates are slowing. To witness the extraordinary progress made thus far, one may need to reevaluate cancer from an entirely different perspective.

Fortunately, an emerging field known as cancer neuroscience may provide that new perspective, as detailed in a recent cover story. The realization that nerves play a crucial role in cancer proliferation and dissemination introduces a novel approach to treatment. Drugs designed to target the interaction between cancer cells and our neurons are already showing promise in clinical trials and are being hailed as potential breakthroughs in cancer therapy.

If cancer neuroscience leads to the next major breakthrough, the resulting drugs could be surprisingly affordable and accessible. For instance, some widely used beta blockers are currently under research.

This development is particularly welcome in light of the fact that many newer therapies can become prohibitively expensive, and challenges still exist in ensuring equitable, swift, and affordable access to optimal cancer treatments.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

These Images Capture My First Glimpse of Antarctica Under the Sun.

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Antarctic region of the Sun never seen before

ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI Team, J. Hirzberger (MPS)

Thanks to the groundbreaking Solar Orbiter spacecraft, I had my first glimpse of the Antarctic region of the Sun. These images and other observations aim to enhance our ability to predict solar activity.

Capturing an image of the solar poles requires the spacecraft to move away from the zodiac plane, affecting nearly all objects in the solar system, which orbit within the sun’s flat disk. The Solar Orbiter, a collaborative effort between the European Space Agency and NASA, achieved this milestone. Launched in 2020, it gradually adjusted its trajectory to reach an angle steep enough to reveal the previously unseen polar areas of the Sun.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4r4yos6j7y

ESA unveiled the initial image of the Sun’s Antarctic region taken in March, with the spacecraft positioned at 15 degrees below the zodiac plane and currently at 17 degrees beneath it.

Seeing this image for the first time was truly remarkable. Lucy Green from University College London, which contributed to developing the Solar Orbiter, remarked, “We felt privileged as these previously concealed areas became accessible to us.”

The Antarctic of the Sun seen at various wavelengths

ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI, EUI, SPICE teams

The Solar Orbiter has also been using measurements of magnetic fields and high-energy radiation emerging from the Sun’s Antarctic region, data that ESA has now shared. Understanding the magnetic fields in this area is crucial for our comprehension of the solar cycle, which shows intensive activity roughly every 11 years, states Green. “To fully grasp the Sun as a star, we need to analyze the magnetic fields surrounding it. The magnetic regions at the poles are integral to this understanding.”

“It might seem paradoxical, but one of the most critical areas on the Sun for forecasting space weather on Earth is not visually appealing when seen from Earth: the solar poles,” says Matthew Owens from the University of Reading, UK.

“These new images provide unprecedented insights into regions near Antarctica. As the Solar Orbiter mission progresses, it will ascend to higher latitudes and provide even clearer views of the pole,” he remarks. Space weather forecasts depend on knowing the magnetic structure at the poles, especially during the Sun’s least active phases over the next three to four years, says Owens.

The Solar Orbiter has also offered us a look into the Sun’s Arctic, but ESA is awaiting the data’s return to Earth. In the meantime, you can explore the Arctic through an approximation crafted by ESA in 2018 using clever imaging techniques.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Silent Billionaire: Investing $1 Billion in Climate Action

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nestled in a quieter street of vibrant central London, the headquarters of a significant yet under-the-radar climate organization awaits your discovery.

The Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF) annually allocates hundreds of millions of dollars to some of the most impactful campaign groups and scientific institutions, at the forefront of research and advocacy in green transitions. It funds initiatives such as anti-methane vaccines for livestock, sustainable aviation fuel, geothermal energy, and carbon capture technologies.

As research budgets tighten in universities and across the UK, organizations like QCF step in to facilitate the shift toward net-zero emissions.

Established in 2019 as a charitable arm of the Four Seasons hedge fund, the QCF empowers founders Greg Skinner and Sunil Setya to tackle climate challenges. Recently recognized in the Sunday Times Rich List for their philanthropic efforts, they contributed over $6.7 million to climate-related initiatives last week through the foundation. In total, QCF has dispersed over $1 billion to climate interventions, ranking it as one of the largest and most influential climate charities globally.

Who decides which research projects to back, what causes to prioritize, and the strategic direction to pursue? Greg de Temmerman, a former nuclear physicist and the QCF’s Chief Science Officer, is tasked with evaluating proposals to identify the most promising initiatives.

Madeleine Cuff: Could you explain your transition from a nuclear fusion focus to climate strategy?

Greg de Temmerman: I worked on the ITER project [an international fusion experiment based in France] for seven years, the largest scientific endeavor on Earth. Throughout this period, I engaged in outreach efforts to demystify fusion. Unfortunately, the project faced mounting delays.

I was frequently interacting with decision-makers, which illuminated the divide between scientific research and policy-making. Consequently, I chose to exit fusion in 2020 and co-founded a think tank with a Parisian entrepreneur, aiming to bridge the gap between policymakers and early-stage technology. In 2023, I joined the Quadrature Climate Foundation where I continue this mission, but now with greater resources to effect change.

Controversial geoengineering initiatives, like this insulation project in Switzerland, are under scrutiny

Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images

Explain your current role at QCF.

QCF’s mission is to promote projects and partnerships that can drive global change. Our portfolio includes support for early-stage technologies, advocacy, campaigns, technical work, capacity building, and more. It’s crucial to identify the problem at hand.

For instance, one might say, “I want to boost renewable energy,” but what obstacles stand in the way? Is it financial resources? Infrastructure issues? I was brought on board to ask these critical questions and ensure we pursue the right solutions.

How does charitable funding differ from traditional investments and government support?

Charitable funding doesn’t seek financial returns, allowing for greater risk-taking than typical investments. Moreover, we can move more swiftly than government entities. Essentially, we both catalyze the net-zero movement and act as a catalyst for other funding sources.

With an impressive annual budget reaching around $325 million in 2025, do you face significant influences?

We are notable players in climate finance but still small in comparison to what’s needed for a successful climate transition. While it feels empowering to operate at this scale, our budget pales in comparison to the global demands of climate mitigation.

You support various initiatives, from studying climate change impacts to advocating for clean tech entrepreneurship. Can you share a particular success?

We were among the first substantial funders of permanent carbon removal techniques. Our initiatives aimed to develop a compliance market while emphasizing accountability measures. This became critical following discussions ignited by the last international climate change report, which highlighted the necessity for negative emissions, leading to serious dialogue on the subject.

Last year, you introduced a new strategy, shifting focus towards adaptation and resilience in climate change. What prompted this shift?

The climate crisis is accelerating, with more extreme weather events becoming a norm. Adaptation is essential to any decarbonization efforts. This new strategy seeks to unify our initiatives under a coherent vision, aligning with what our founders find most impactful.

As part of the new strategy, you’ll be supporting climate intervention research, particularly geoengineering, which can be contentious. What motivates this funding?

Indeed, these scientific endeavors should predominantly come from public funding, which has been lacking for various reasons. Thus, we decided to support this research to ensure that vital questions are being explored.

This sector raises major ethical concerns. How can you justify financial support for it?

I don’t have a definitive stance on the ethics of geoengineering. Currently, it’s a complex arena that necessitates rigorous understanding, and I don’t endorse any immediate applications of geoengineering techniques.

Our intent is to spark discussions about geoengineering, especially as new startups emerge in this field, despite existing research lagging behind.

Is your support strictly for foundational research, or do you engage with field trials as well?

Much of our backing centers around fundamental climate science. One pressing issue in geoengineering is understanding cloud formation, which parallels many critical challenges in climate science. We funded a minimal outdoor experiment in the U.S. that was suspended after a few weeks due to public backlash. We prefer to remain cautious and utilize robust climate models to predict the impacts of geoengineering. Comprehensive observational capabilities are essential for effective outdoor trials, and we believe there remains much work in foundational climate science.

In the current political climate, with leaders like former President Trump rolling back climate policies, how do you navigate these headwinds?

Transition involves disruption; established systems resist change while new ones emerge, and this tension can be challenging. It’s essential to foster understanding of this dynamic and communicate the complexities inherent to the transition process.

The upcoming years may be tough. Addressing climate issues has become increasingly challenging. In the UK, rising electricity costs compound the disconnect between the public’s perception of renewable energy benefits and their current bills, which can lead to skepticism.

However, there’s compelling motivation to move away from fossil fuels, independent of climate beliefs. Oil and gas markets are notoriously unstable, making diversification essential for resilience. The key is to demonstrate that energy transitions benefit everyone, regardless of their views on climate action.

Oil refinery at sunset in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Panoramic Images/Alamy

Climate disinformation and malign players pose challenges. What can be done to combat this?

Attacks on climate science persist, but the overwhelming evidence supports the scientific consensus. While some may cling to flat Earth beliefs, the facts remain clear. Increasingly, the discourse pivots to contesting solutions rather than the scientific basis itself. For instance, searching “Electric Car” on YouTube reveals numerous videos disputing their efficacy. These discussions, while interesting, rely heavily on data and understanding.

What exciting prospects lie ahead for QCF in the coming year?

To transform industries, we must bring down energy costs, and there are opportunities to achieve that. Furthermore, tackling industrial emissions—once deemed difficult—is now achievable with ready solutions. It’s an exhilarating time as skeptics claimed decarbonizing sectors like steel was impossible. But now, we know we can do it.

As you’ve identified as a major player, how do you cope with the responsibility of influencing climate transition?

It’s about recognizing our role within the broader system and acknowledging our limitations. It’s vital to approach initiatives with the belief that we can unlock new possibilities, while remaining open to the reality that we may not always be correct.

How do you maintain optimism in a time where climate progress appears stagnant?

I often say my optimism shines on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; I’m more pessimistic on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with Sundays reserved for reflection.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

AI Decodes Brain Waves of Paralyzed Individuals into Real-Time Audio

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A man with paralysis is connected to a brain-computer interface system

Lisa E. Howard/Mitely Wairagkar et al. 2025

Men who have lost their ability to speak can engage in real-time conversations and even sing using brain-controlled synthetic voices.

The brain-computer interface captures neural activity through electrodes implanted in the brain, instantly creating audio sounds that match intended pitch, intonation, and emphasis.

“This represents a breakthrough in instantaneous speech synthesis, achieving this within 25 ms,” says Sergei Stavisky from the University of California, Davis.

While advancements are needed to improve speech clarity, Maitreyee Wairagkar, also at UC Davis, notes that the individual who lost his speech due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis expresses happiness and feels that he has found his true voice.

Existing speech neurospheres that utilize brain-computer interfaces typically require a few seconds to convert brain activity into sound. Stavisky mentions that this delays natural conversation and if the connection falters, it can feel like speaking on a poor-quality phone call.

To create a more seamless speech experience, Wairagkar, Stavisky, and their team implanted 256 electrodes in the areas of the male brain responsible for facial muscle control necessary for speech. In subsequent sessions, they introduced thousands of sentences on a screen, recorded brain activity, and prompted the subject to vocalize with specific intonations.

“For instance, phrases like ‘How are you today?’ or variations such as ‘How are you? today?’ can significantly alter the meaning of sentences,” explains Stavisky. “This approach allows for a richer, more natural dialog, marking a significant advancement over previous technologies.”

The researchers utilized an AI model trained to link particular patterns of neural activity with corresponding words and tonal variations, resulting in synthetic speech that mirrors both the content and emotional delivery intended by the user.

The AI was trained with audio recordings from before the male’s condition deteriorated, employing voice-cloning technology to ensure the synthetic speech bore a resemblance to his original voice.

In another phase of the study, researchers attempted to teach him to sing a simple melody with varying pitches, with their models accurately interpreting the intended pitch in real time and adjusting the produced singing voice accordingly.

He also utilizes the system to communicate spontaneously, making sounds such as “hmmm,” “eww,” and forming words, as noted by Wairagkar.

“He’s a remarkably articulate and intelligent individual,” says David Brandman from UC Davis. “Despite his paralysis, he has continued to participate actively in work and engage in meaningful conversations.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Cyborg Tadpoles Illuminate the Start of Brain Development

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Immunofluorescence-stained tadpoles visualize internal anatomy, utilizing brain-tracking devices implanted as embryos.

Hao Sheng et al. 2025, Jia Liu Lab/Harvard SEAS

Do our brains really develop from practically anything, allowing us to generate complex thoughts, actions, and even reflections on ourselves? Recent experiments with tadpoles have integrated electron implants into brain precursors during early embryonic stages, potentially bringing us closer to answering this question.

Earlier efforts to investigate neurodevelopment relied on tools like functional magnetic resonance imaging and rigid electrode wires. Unfortunately, the imaging resolution was often too low to be effective, while the rigid wires caused significant damage to the brain, yielding little more than a snapshot of specific developmental moments.

Researchers, including Jia Liu from Harvard University, discovered a material (a type of perfluropolymer) closely resembling brain tissue. They employed this to create a flexible, elastic mesh encasing an ultra-thin conductor, which was placed onto the neural plate—a flat structure that serves as the precursor to the brain—in the embryos of the African clawed frog (Axenopath Ravis).

As the neural plates folded and expanded, these ribbon-like meshes were enveloped by the developing brain, maintaining functionality amidst stretching and bending in the tissue. When the researchers sought to measure signals from the brain, they connected the meshes to computers to visualize neural activity.

The implants did not harm the brain nor provoke an immune reaction, and the tadpole embryos developed as anticipated. In fact, at least one grew into a normal frog, according to Liu.

“It’s incredible to integrate all these materials and ensure everything operates seamlessly,” said Christopher Bettinger from Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania. “This tool has the potential to significantly advance basic neuroscience by enabling biologists to observe neural activity throughout development.”

The team derived two key insights from their experiments. First, the patterns of neural activity shifted as tissue differentiated into specialized structures, resulting in distinct functions. Liu noted that tracking an organism’s self-organization to a computer was previously deemed impossible.

The second area of focus was how brain activity in animals changes following amputation. Traditionally, it was believed that electrical activity would revert to its original developmental state. The research team confirmed this by utilizing implants in experiments with Axolotls.

Liu’s team is now broadening their research to include rodents. Unlike amphibians, rodent development occurs within the uterus, making the implantation of meshes more challenging. It requires in vitro fertilization and more intricate signaling measurement techniques compared to simply wiring the mesh to computers. Nonetheless, Liu is optimistic that the insights gained from observing early stages of conditions like autism and schizophrenia will justify the complexities involved.

Bettinger mentioned that similar devices could also be applied to monitor neuromuscular regeneration following injuries and during rehabilitation. “Overall, this highlights the remarkable potential of highly compliant electronic applications,” he stated.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Can AI Agents Regain Control of the Internet from Big Tech?

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Autonomous AI agents may soon communicate across the Internet

Outflow Designs/Istockphoto/Getty Images

What does the future of the internet hold? As AI companies evolve, previously open web spaces are being overtaken by digital silos controlled by commercial AI models, sidelining enthusiasts and small businesses. In response, a coalition of grassroots researchers is determined to champion an open approach to AI.

Central to this effort is the notion of AI “agents.” These are software programs that navigate the web and interact with online platforms based on human directions, such as planning holidays and making bookings. Many perceive these agents as the next stage of evolution following services like ChatGPT, yet they face significant challenges in functionality. This is largely due to the web’s design, which favors human interaction; thus, developers are recognizing that AI agents require specialized protocols to effectively engage with online content, services, and each other.

“The objective is to establish infrastructure that facilitates communication among bots, much like software does,” explains Catherine Frick from Staffordshire University, UK.

Several competing solutions to this challenge have emerged. For instance, Anthropic, the creators of the Claude chatbot, have introduced the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which standardizes the way AI models connect to various data sources and tools. In April, Google announced its own take with the Agent2Agent (A2A) protocol, offering a distinct approach to this concept.

While these methods share similarities, they have important differences. MCP focuses on standardizing AI models’ connections to external data repositories and tools, creating a secure universal channel for two-way communication—akin to having a phone number or email for messaging. In contrast, A2A expands on this by enabling autonomous agents to discover one another, exchange information, and collaborate on tasks.

For instance, you can link your AI chatbot to the code-sharing platform GitHub via MCP, yet Google asserts that A2A could enable agents to manage job interviews, conduct calls, perform background checks—all in one streamlined process, with the agent team operating simultaneously.

However, as these protocols originate from major tech companies, concerns arise that the creators of the most successful protocol might leverage it for their own commercial gain. The MCP model necessitates oversight from a central server for connections, whereas A2A comes with its own costs, assuming that authorized agents will cooperate.

“We want to prevent an ‘Agent Internet’ from evolving into yet another ‘silo alliance,'” warns Gawee Chan, who serves as chairman of the AI Agent Protocol Group. Founded in May as part of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Standards Organization, Chan emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in developing this new layer of the Internet. “If we genuinely believe that AI is a transformative technology for human society, we need an open, neutral community to guide protocol development, ensuring that its future is shared by all companies, not just a select few,” he states.

In pursuit of this goal, Chang has initiated an open-source alternative to the Big Tech Agent Protocol with the Agent Network Protocol (ANP), which predates both MCP and A2A. ANP facilitates AI agents in discovering each other and establishing identities across the web, reminiscent of the early days of the internet, when individuals created personal websites and email accounts independent of large tech intermediaries. This autonomy allows ANP-driven models to function without a central authority, enabling direct communication between distinct AI models on the same device without needing internet verification.

Flick supports the emergence of open-source, non-commercial alternatives for Agent AI. “Essentially, our aim is to restore the fundamental principle of democratization to the Internet, which is how it all began,” she remarks. Without such alternatives, she warns that tech giants could create “walled gardens” reminiscent of the challenges seen in app stores and social media platforms. “If we rely on major corporations for this, they will execute it primarily to maximize profits,” she cautions.

Google claims that its protocols are designed for universal benefit. “We will continue to enhance [A2A] to tackle real-world challenges businesses face in deploying agent frameworks. At its core, it’s structured for the future’s demands,” says Rao Sarapaneni from Google Cloud.

“We have always believed in ensuring that advancements in AI serve everyone,” adds Theo Chu, an anthropologist. “When I developed MCP, I recognized that one key strategy to avoid fragmentation and vendor lock-in—which hampers the advancement of other technologies—was to make it open-source.”

Chu asserts that MCP is integrated across major platforms, including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google. “The success of MCP will stem from its ability to expand choices rather than restrict them,” she notes. “The collective value of the ecosystem is increased for everyone.”

The W3C Group is eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to establish technical standards industry-wide, but no specific timeline has been set. “Ultimately, our focus isn’t on the triumph or failure of any one protocol but rather on the holistic growth of the agent ecosystem.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

As the World Cup Nears, Scientists Aim to Create the Ideal Grass

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Knoxville, Tennessee – From exhilarating goals to devastating defeats, the FIFA World Cup captivates its audience.

Next year, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will commence, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, marking a historic event.

This tournament may feature superstars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and is the first occasion where three nations co-host in 16 cities, making it the most complex World Cup ever, as per FIFA.

“No matter if they’re in Seattle or playing in Guadalajara, I need these pitches to perform consistently. I want the same bounce and the same player-to-grass interaction,” said an expert.

“Safety is paramount and must be my top priority,” Ferguson stated during an interview at the University of Tennessee facility in Knoxville, where researchers collaborate with Michigan State to help FIFA evaluate each venue’s pitch preparations for the tournament.

“Players need to feel confident as they make quick directional changes; the ground must be stable,” he added.

Managing over 12 venues for NFL games and concerts full of monster trucks is no small feat.

The U.S. venues could face increased scrutiny after last summer’s Copa America Tournament raised concerns, notably from players like Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who referred to conditions at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium as a “disaster.”

“There’s no doubt that last year’s tournament raised the stakes,” Ferguson remarked, referencing the tournament that featured the best 16 teams from North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean.

“Research was in progress, but Copa highlighted more traditional hesitations regarding international football pitches. Venue schedules are packed with events transitioning from one to another continuously.”

U.S. stadiums have long been central to the debate on natural versus artificial turf in terms of safety. Next summer, all venues will adopt artificial stitch blends of natural grass, focusing on both the underlying structure and the grass itself.

In April, NBC News had exclusive access to the Knoxville facility, where researchers led by Professor John Solochan are tackling these challenges.

The team is investigating artificial stitches and layering techniques beneath the grass to improve root growth and ensure light use, contributing to consistent pitch quality indoors and outdoors.

Solochan, who specializes in turfgrass science and management, mentioned that the mix for warm-season venues includes Bermudagrass, while cool-season venues use a blend of perennial rye and Kentucky bluegrass. Indoor venues also benefit from recommended drainage layers, contributing to a firmer pitch.

“Many of these trials here were unsuccessful,” Solochan explained as he showcased a grid filled with grass plots labeled with different variables. Some experiments involved sewing fibers together to fortify the play surface, while others examined the upper layers typical in World Cup venues featuring flooring for concerts and artificial turf.

The facility includes setups that simulate indoor stadium growth conditions, along with a flex machine that tests the impact on players’ ankles by pressing soccer shoes into the grass. The initial data shows promising insights.

“You can track the speed of the ball as it moves. By analyzing the footage, we can determine its recovery speed, angle, and exit coefficients,” Solochan noted while standing next to a machine resembling one used for NFL punt returns.

Ferguson concluded, “It’s the science that underpins the game. That’s what elevates the sport.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Arid Conditions of Death Valley Could Be a Surprising Water Resource

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Deserts like Death Valley can be an extraordinary source of drinking water

Mimi Ditchie Photography/Getty Images

The compact panels managed to extract a glass of clean water from the arid air of Death Valley, California.

Although the atmosphere over extremely dry regions can retain a significant amount of water, extracting it into usable supplies has proven challenging. Previous methods, including simple mesh fabrics and mist-capturing nets crafted from synthetic spider silk, have struggled to function effectively in real-world conditions.

Now, Xuanhe Zhao from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his team have created a unique water collector, about 0.5 meters tall and 0.1 meters wide. It features a glass panel embedded with absorbent hydrogels—gel-like substances formed from long polymer chains and lithium salts, enabling it to gather water molecules.

The hydrogel is designed to fold into an origami-like configuration, enhancing surface area to capture moisture during the night. The absorbed water evaporates when sunlight hits the glass panel the next day. The interior of the device is coated with a specialized cooling material, which collects the evaporated water as it condenses and drips into a storage compartment below.

Zhao and his team conducted a week-long test of the apparatus in Death Valley, where humidity can plummet to as low as 5%. In comparison, the annual average in London hovers around 70%. They discovered the device can harvest up to 160 milliliters of water each day, enough to fill a small glass.

It’s estimated that eight of these panels could meet the daily drinking water requirements of an average adult, making them especially beneficial in arid regions. “Given the compact design of the device, we believe larger arrays could provide drinking water to households for consumption,” says Zhao.

Zhao and his colleagues assert that while the device shows promise in real-world conditions, Daryl Williams from Imperial College London cautions that extended testing—beyond a week—could present challenges. “Outdoor environments are generally hostile. We want to observe how the device performs under such stress after three, six, or even nine months.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Republican Tax Bills Could Undermine Rooftop Solar Growth

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Over the last two decades, more than 5 million U.S. households, stretching from California to Georgia and Maine, have installed solar panels on their rooftops, harnessing solar energy and cutting down on electricity costs.

However, this progress may be abruptly halted.

A recent domestic policy bill approved by House Republicans aims to cut tax incentives for homeowners and solar leasing companies, which have significantly contributed to the rise in rooftop solar adoption, by the end of this year. Analysts and industry experts warn that if this legislation is enacted, it would result in an immediate slowdown in installations.

Ben Airth, policy director at Freedom Forever, one of the largest residential solar installers in the country, stated, “This is setting us back.” He remembers a time when solar installations were primarily undertaken by wealthy environmentalists preparing for retirement.

According to an analysis from energy data firm Ohm Analysis, residential solar installations could decline by 50% next year if the House bill is enacted. Without tax credits, homeowners would take an average of 17 years to recoup their solar investments. A more pessimistic forecast from Morgan Stanley predicts an 85% decrease in rooftop solar demand by 2030.

Republicans also seek to limit tax breaks for other renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbines and large solar farms, but the repercussions for rooftop solar could prove to be even more drastic. Rooftop solar costs 2-3 times more per unit of power than large solar arrays installed on agricultural land and in deserts, making the residential sector more susceptible to subsidy alterations.

The Senate is currently drafting its version of the domestic policy bill, while solar industry executives are lobbying in Washington for more progressive energy credit initiatives. They emphasize that the solar sector currently employs around 300,000 workers and that rooftop systems significantly reduce homeowners’ electricity expenses.

Nonetheless, some conservative Republicans are explicitly opposed to any restoration of renewable energy tax incentives.

Texas Republican Chip Roy criticized, stating, “We’re devastating our energy infrastructure, wrecking our grid, ruining our landscapes, and compromising our freedoms.” He added, “I don’t support that.”

The existing uncertainty is jeopardizing an industry that is already grappling with high tariffs and soaring interest rates. Last week, Solar Mosaic announced it would provide loans for homeowners to install rooftop panels, following its bankruptcy declaration. Recently, Sunnova Energy, one of the largest rooftop solar providers in the U.S., followed suit.

Experts suggest that even if rooftop solar ultimately becomes unsubsidized, rising electricity prices nationwide could still make solar energy more financially appealing. Nevertheless, the transition may be challenging, likely resulting in increased bankruptcies and layoffs.

Zoe Gaston, a leading analyst for residential solar at Wood Mackenzie, mentioned, “But that market will inevitably be smaller.”

Significant Tax Revisions

For the past 20 years, Congress has provided tax credits for the installation of solar panels on rooftops. However, these subsidies faced major reductions through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which allocated hundreds of billions of dollars toward technology aimed at tackling climate change.

The legislation has extended the residential solar credit, allowing homeowners to recoup 30% of their solar system costs until 2032. It has also broadened the Investment Tax Credit for businesses constructing low-emission power sources like solar and battery technologies.

These changes have led to a surge in solar leases, allowing homeowners to avoid upfront costs for rooftop systems that can exceed $30,000. Instead, the solar company owns the panels and applies for tax credits, while homeowners lease the equipment and ideally save money through lower utility bills.

Currently, over 50% of residential solar systems are financed in this manner, making rooftop solar more attainable for schools, hospitals, and small businesses.

The House Republican bill seeks to eliminate the solar tax credit for residential properties by the end of 2025, meaning immediate qualification for investment tax credits will not be permitted.

Moreover, the House bill forbids businesses from claiming tax credits if they utilize components sourced from China, which dominates the solar supply chain. Many companies have expressed that the legislation is written so broadly that it would inhibit their ability to claim credits effectively.

Gregg Felton, CEO of Altus Power, which develops solar projects for rooftops and parking lots, remarked that the House bill “adequately represents the industry’s impact.”

If Congress significantly cuts support for renewable energy, experts predict that companies will still invest in large solar arrays, as they frequently represent one of the most cost-effective methods to increase energy generation, even without subsidies. Conversely, rooftop solar remains more expensive, requires more labor, and carries greater risks.

Kenny Plannenstiel, COO of Big Dog Solar, an Idaho-based installation firm, noted that rooftop solar has gained traction in emerging markets like Montana and Idaho.

“There is substantial interest among those wanting to take control of their energy future, as well as among those concerned about grid reliability,” Pfannenstiel added. With the tax credit in place, “the financial argument for these customers installing solar and battery systems has become much stronger,” he explained.

If the credits disappear, some customers may still desire solar panels, Pfannenstiel noted, but the market will “shrink significantly.”

The repercussions could be far-reaching. If a solar leasing company goes under, there may be no one left to service the solar panels, resulting in job losses for thousands of installers and electricians.

In recent years, over 30 solar plants have commenced operations in the U.S., but a slowdown in demand could lead to their closure.

Freedom Forever, a California-based solar installer, noted that two years ago, none of their components were sourced from the U.S.; now, approximately 85% are, including inverters manufactured in Texas and Florida. This shift is driven by the Inflation Reduction Act, which provided extra credits for utilizing domestic components.

Without these credits, Airth cautioned, “the industry will revert to relying on the lowest-cost components, often produced overseas.”

Debates Over Rooftop Solar

The fight for tax credits in Congress is not the sole hurdle for rooftop solar. While the technology remains favored by homeowners, certain states are starting to retract support amidst considerable backlash.

Electric utilities and some analysts argue that rooftop solar users increase costs for everyone else, as solar households pay lower monthly utility bills but depend on the grid for backup power. This shifts the cost of grid maintenance onto other households, often those with lower incomes. (Supporters of solar disagree, claiming utilities overlook the many benefits of rooftop installations, such as avoided transmission expenses.)

The conflict has been particularly intense in California, the nation’s leading rooftop solar market. In 2022, regulators significantly decreased the compensation that new solar households could receive for the electricity they generate. As a result, rooftop installations plummeted by 85% statewide, affecting installers, manufacturers, and distributors.

Currently, some officials advocate for a reassessment of the existing solar grant program’s impact on Californians who may not afford solar panel systems, as stated by Democratic state legislator Lisa Calderon.

Rising interest rates have further complicated the affordability of rooftop solar systems, making it costlier to secure funding for new equipment. Additionally, both the Trump and Biden administrations have imposed increased tariffs on solar products from China.

Some stakeholders within the rooftop solar sector argue they have to focus on cost-cutting measures.

Not only is rooftop solar pricier than large utility-scale solar farms, but the price of a U.S. home solar installation is three times that of a similar system in Australia. Some analysts attribute the difference to the regulatory challenges.

“Eventually, our industry may function without tax credits,” stated Chris Hopper, co-founder of Aurora Solar, a software company specializing in home solar systems. “I believe we can navigate these credit phase-downs over a reasonable timeframe.

“However, sudden changes would be devastating,” Hopper emphasized. “Rapid adaptation is simply not feasible.”

Ivan Penn Contribution report

Source: www.nytimes.com

Swap the Baby for a Dog: A Recipe for Joy

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

My wife and I will always cherish the day we brought home our miniature Schnauzer puppy. At just four weeks old, she fit snugly in my palm. During the ride home, I sat in the back seat with her, gazing down at her big, playful eyes as she cuddled against my knees.

In the subsequent weeks and months, we joked that it felt like a dress rehearsal for having a human baby.

Nowadays, a growing number of people embrace this sentiment, referring to themselves as “dog parents” and viewing their furry companions as stand-ins for children.

Recent research by European psychologist, Laura Gillette and Professor Enikő Kubinyi from Elte Etovas Roland University in Budapest, highlights this trend and raises important questions about its correlation with the global decline in human fertility rates.

Interestingly, my wife and I welcomed human twins a few years after we got our pup. But with rising living costs and a shift towards individualistic values, are many opting for dogs instead of children?

Rise in Puppy Ownership

In the UK, fertility rates are at a historic low: in 2023, the average was 1.44 children per woman (over 2 is needed to maintain the population), with just 591,072 births, the lowest since 1977.

In contrast, the number of pet dogs has surged by a million in the last decade, with 45% of owners being millennials. Many of us now treat our dogs like little humans, ordering Puppuccinos at local cafes and creating social media accounts for our pups.

According to Gillette and Kubinyi, our natural caregiving instincts, honed over thousands of years of domestication, push us toward nurturing our dogs. Their appealing features, such as large eyes and rounded faces reminiscent of infants, compel affection. In fact, many popular breeds exhibit “pedomorphism,” retaining baby-like traits into adulthood.

Research shows dogs have evolved to express more facial emotions than other animals, eliciting emotional responses from humans.

Studies suggest dogs could serve as alternative children. A 2014 brain imaging study found that mothers exhibited similar brain responses when viewing dogs as when seeing human children, particularly in areas linked to reward.

Another study in 2015 revealed that staring into a dog’s eyes increases levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and crucial for mother-infant interactions.

Moreover, many owners communicate with their dogs using a high-pitched, affectionate tone often employed when addressing babies, known as motherese.

Gillette and Kubinyi draw parallels between human parenting and dog ownership. Psychologists have long noted that children develop various attachment styles that correlate with their behavior, shaped primarily by emotional consistency from their parents.

Research indicates that dogs form close attachments to their owners, akin to those seen in humans. Like people, dogs’ attachment styles are influenced by their owners’ caregiving approach.

There is also evidence that dog owners can experience something akin to postnatal depression. A 2024 study found that new puppy owners may feel “puppy blues”, characterized by emotional stress, anxiety about responsibilities, and challenges in adjusting to life with a new puppy.

If raising a puppy mimics many aspects of parenting, is opting for a dog over a baby a smart choice? It’s likely cheaper and less disruptive to your career. Personally, I’d argue that cleaning up after a puppy is easier than changing diapers, though neither option is exactly pleasant.

But does being a dog parent guarantee greater happiness than being a human parent? The answer is complex.

Early parent-child dynamics are often linked to high stress and sleep deprivation.
Photo Credit: Getty

The Weight of Responsibility

Research shows that human-parent relationships can lead to short-term happiness declines. While parents experience moments of anticipated joy, they often face a drop in happiness during the initial years of parenting, likely due to the rigorous demands of their roles.

This happiness penalty tends to diminish over time, eventually returning to pre-parenting levels. These findings surprised many who believed parenthood was the pinnacle of joy in life.

Ultimately, how one measures happiness—whether through fleeting joy or long-term life satisfaction—matters. Many parents still regard having children as the most meaningful experience in their lives.

What about dog owners? Again, the findings are intricate. In large longitudinal studies focusing on pets, the benefits of ownership aren’t always as rosy as expected.

In a comprehensive review of 54 studies, only 31% of dog and cat owners reported a clear positive effect on their quality of life, while 9% reported negative impacts.

Much like stories about parenting, mixed results concerning pet ownership likely stem from the emotional challenges of caring for dogs, including the demands of training and concerns about safety.

Additionally, factors such as financial stability and societal influences play a significant role. Parental happiness is generally higher in nations with supportive child policies.

Age also influences satisfaction for both dog and human parents. For instance, parents in their 30s tend to report higher happiness compared to those who become parents in their early 20s. Notably, older dog owners often find that their furry companions help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Having a dog also encourages more physical activity and facilitates social interaction with other dog owners.

Comparing the joys of babies and puppies might not be the right angle. Both offer unique rewards and teach us to celebrate the better aspects of human nature that we choose to embrace.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Achieve Breakthroughs in Crystal Bit Manipulation Accuracy

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A group of physicists from Oxford University has accomplished the lowest error rate (just 0.000015%, or one error in 6.7 million operations) in quantum logic operations.

Ion trap chip rendering. Image credit: Jocchen Wolf and Tom Harty of Oxford University.

“As far as we know, this is the most accurate qubit manipulation ever reported globally,” stated Professor David Lucas from Oxford University.

“This represents a crucial milestone in constructing a practical quantum computer capable of solving real-world problems.”

To conduct meaningful calculations on quantum computers, millions of operations must engage numerous qubits.

Consequently, if the error rate is excessively high, the end result of the computation becomes useless.

Error correction techniques can address mistakes, but they require additional qubits, which come at a cost.

By minimizing errors, new methodologies decrease the number of qubits needed, leading to a reduction in both the cost and size of the quantum computer itself.

“By significantly decreasing the chances of errors, this advancement will greatly lessen the infrastructure necessary for error correction, paving the way for future quantum computers to be smaller, faster, and more efficient,” said Molly Smith, a graduate student at Oxford University.

“Kitz’s precise control is beneficial for other quantum technologies, including timepieces and quantum sensors.”

This groundbreaking accuracy was attained using trapped calcium ions as qubits.

These ions are ideal candidates for storing quantum information due to their longevity and resilience.

Researchers adopted an alternative method, using electron (microwave) signals to manage the quantum states of calcium ions instead of traditional lasers.

This technique is more stable than laser control and offers several advantages for constructing practical quantum computers.

For instance, electronic control is less expensive and more robust than lasers, facilitating easier integration into ion trap chips.

Moreover, the experiment was conducted at room temperature and without magnetic shielding, simplifying the technical necessities of operating quantum computers.

“This record-setting achievement signifies a significant milestone, but it is part of a larger challenge,” the author remarked.

“In quantum computing, both single and two-qubit gates must function together.”

“Currently, the gates of the two-qubit systems still experience a very high error rate, approximately 1 in 2,000 even in the best demonstration to date.

Their paper has been published online in the journal Physical Review Letters.

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MC Smith et al. 2025. Single qubit gate with errors at the 10^-7 level. Phys. Rev. Lett, in press; doi: 10.1103/42w2-6ccy

Source: www.sci.news

Webb Observes the Sombrero Galaxy in Near-Infrared Light

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

With the aid of the NICAM (Near-infrared camera), astronomers aboard the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have captured new images of the Sombrero Galaxy.

The new Webb/Nircam image reveals the prominent bulge of the Sombrero Galaxy, which consists of a dense cluster of stars at the galaxy’s center, while dust on the outer rim obscures some starlight. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI.

The Sombrero Galaxy is situated approximately 28 million light years away in the Virgo constellation.

Also referred to as Messier 104, M104, or NGC 4594, this galaxy was discovered by the French astronomer Pierre Méchain on May 11, 1781.

It has a diameter of 49,000 light years, which is nearly twice that of our Milky Way galaxy.

The Sombrero Galaxy displays features typical of both spiral and elliptical galaxies.

It features a spiral arm and a prominently illuminated central bulge that resembles two hybrid forms.

Viewed edge-on, the Sombrero Galaxy sits at a six-degree angle south of its plane, with the dark dust lane creating a striking visual.

“Researching galaxies like the Sombrero through various wavelengths, including near-infrared with Webb, as well as data from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, assists us in understanding the formation and evolution of this intricate system and its constituent materials,” said an astronomer.

“Unlike Hubble’s visible light images, the dust disk is not detectable in Nircam’s new near-infrared imagery.”

“This is because the longer wavelengths of infrared radiation emitted by stars penetrate dust more effectively, resulting in less obstruction of stellar light.”

“In mid-infrared images, the dust actually emits light.”

“Research indicates that the smooth surface and subtle glow of the galaxy hint at a turbulent history,” the astronomer noted.

“Anomalies discovered over the years suggest that this galaxy may have been involved in a violent merger with at least one other galaxy.”

The Sombrero galaxy is home to approximately 2,000 globular clusters, which are dense collections of hundreds of thousands of ancient stars bound together by gravity.

“Spectroscopic analyses reveal unexpected variances among the stars in these globular clusters.”

“Stars that form under similar conditions and from the same materials typically share similar chemical ‘fingerprints,’ such as the same abundance of elements like oxygen or neon.”

“However, the apparent variations among stars in this galaxy’s globular clusters are notably significant.”

“The merging of various galaxies over billions of years can explain these discrepancies.”

“Further evidence supporting the merger hypothesis is seen in the distorted look of the galaxy’s inner disk.”

“While our observations categorize it as edge-on, it actually gives the impression of being at quite an angle,” they added.

“Seen from six degrees off the galaxy’s equator, our viewpoint allows us to glimpse it slightly from above, rather than straight on.”

“From this vantage point, the inner disk appears tilted inward, resembling a funnel rather than a flat plane.”

“Nircam’s advanced resolution reveals parts of the galaxy that look red, indicating the presence of red giants—cooler stars that shine brightly due to their larger surface areas.”

“These red giants are also visible in mid-infrared, but the smaller blue stars in the near-infrared become indistinguishable at longer wavelengths.”

“Additionally, Nircam’s images capture a variety of galaxies in differing shapes and colors scattered across the backdrop of space.”

This color diversity offers astronomers insights into characteristics such as their distances from Earth.

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Uncovers Insights into Neanderthal Migration from the Caucasus Mountains

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Genetic and archaeological findings indicate a significant Neanderthal migration from the western regions to central and eastern Eurasia during the late Pleistocene. Genetic evidence points to dispersion occurring between 120,000 and 80,000 years ago, while archaeological sites in Altai date back to as early as 60,000 years ago. The specifics of the migration route and its timing have been heavily debated due to the limited number of archaeological connections between these regions. Recent studies suggest that Neanderthals likely utilized river valleys as natural pathways, enabling them to traverse approximately 3,250 km (2,000 miles) through the Urals and South Siberia in under 2,000 years.

E. Coco & R. Iovita suggest that the Neanderthals could have quickly spread from Caucasus Mountains to Altai Mountains, running along the north route between MIS 3 and MIS 5e. Image credit: Abel Grau, CSIC Communications.

“Our research indicates that despite facing natural barriers like mountains and large rivers, Neanderthals may have traversed northern Eurasia much more swiftly than previously thought,” stated Dr. Emily Coco, PhD, who initiated this investigation as a PhD student at New York University and is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Algarve.

“These findings offer valuable insights from archaeological records regarding ancient migration routes that remain underexplored and highlight the potential of computer simulations to unveil new information about ancient movements that have shaped human history.”

In creating a simulation of the two Millennial Journeys of Neanderthals, Dr. Coco and her colleague Dr. Radu Iovita from New York University analyzed topographic elevations, ancient river paths, glacial barriers, and temperature variations to model individual movement decisions.

The researchers identified two potential migration routes from ancient periods – during ocean isotope stage 5E (approximately 125,000 years ago during MIS 5E) and during ocean isotope stage 3 (from MIS 3, starting around 60,000 years ago) – both characterized by warmer temperatures making them conducive for movement.

Simulations indicated that Neanderthals could reach the Siberian Altai Mountains in Eurasia within 2,000 years in either MIS 5E or MIS 3, following the same general northern route through the Urals and southern Siberia, often intersecting with known archaeological sites from the same timeframe.

The authors believe this study enhances our understanding of Neanderthal interactions with other ancient human populations.

Specifically, their route would have led them to regions already inhabited by Denisovans, which aligns with existing evidence of interbreeding between the two species.

“The Neanderthals could have traveled thousands of kilometers from the Caucasus Mountains to Siberia in just 2,000 years by navigating river corridors,” said Dr. Iovita.

“While some researchers speculate about this type of rapid, long-distance travel based on genetic evidence, demonstrating it has been challenging due to the sparse archaeological record in the region.”

“Our detailed computer simulations suggest that this transition may have been a predictable outcome of the landscape conditions during prior warm climate periods.”

Survey results published online in the journal PLOS 1.

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E. Coco & R. Iovita. 2025. Agent-based simulations reveal the possibility of multiple rapid northern routes for the dispersion of the second Neanderthal from the West to East Eurasia. PLOS 1 20 (6): E0325693; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0325693

Source: www.sci.news

Studies Suggest Pigs Were Domesticated from Wild Boars in Southern China Over 8,000 Years Ago

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

China has been recognized as one of the primary locations for the domestication of Wild boar (SUSSCROFA). However, tracing back to the initial stages has proven to be complex. In a recent study, archaeologists examined pig dental calculus (mineralized deposits) from two early Neolithic sites in the lower Jotz River area of southern China: Jintushan (8,300–7,800 years ago) and Kuafukiao (8,200–7,000 years ago). Their findings indicate that pigs consumed food and waste associated with humans, including cooked starchy plants and Human whipworm (Trichuris trichiura). Eggs likely originated from food preparation and feces contaminated materials.

Wild boar (SUSSCROFA). Image credit: Elşad Ibrahimov / CC BY-SA 4.0.

The domestication of certain animals, including pigs, is often linked to the Neolithic Age, when humans started moving from foraging to agricultural practices around 10,000 years ago.

Wild boars are substantial, aggressive creatures that generally live independently, foraging for food in the forest floor.

They possess larger heads, mouths, and teeth compared to domestic pigs.

“Most wild boars exhibit natural aggression, though some can be quite friendly and unafraid of humans,” stated Dr. Ziajin Wang from Dartmouth University.

“Proximity to humans provided them with easier access to food, reducing the need for a robust physique.”

“Over time, their bodies and brains shrunk by about one-third.”

To investigate the domestication of pigs and other animals, archaeologists frequently analyze skeletal structures and track morphological changes over time.

“This method can present challenges since decreases in body size typically occur later in the domestication timeline,” Dr. Wang noted.

“Behavioral changes likely preceded physical alterations, making animals more docile than aggressive.”

Thus, for this study, Dr. Wang and his team applied alternative methodologies, documenting the diet of pigs throughout their lifespan via molars from 32 pig specimens.

Through microfossil analysis of pig teeth, they examined dental calculus from the two earliest human-occupied sites in Jintushan and Kuafukiao, dating back at least 8,000 years.

The researchers identified 240 starch granules, revealing that pigs consumed pre-cooked foods (such as rice and mountain moss) alongside unidentified tubers, acorns, and wild grasses.

“These plants were present during that era and were found in human habitats,” Dr. Wang explained.

Previous studies identified rice in both locations, especially in Kuahuqiao, which benefited from intensive rice farming due to its access to freshwater compared to coastal areas.

Additional research indicated starch residues in crushed stones and ceramics from Kuahuqiao.

“Since pigs cannot cook their own food, it is likely that they were fed or scavenged human leftovers,” asserted Dr. Wang.

Parasite eggs from humans, specifically whipworms (which mature within the human digestive system), were also detected in pig dental calculus.

These tan, soccer-shaped eggs were found in 16 pig tooth specimens.

The pigs must have consumed human feces or contaminated food and water from such waste.

“Pigs have a well-known penchant for consuming human waste, further indicating that these pigs likely cohabitated with humans,” Dr. Wang remarked.

Statistical analysis of the dental structures of Kuafukiao and Jintan pig specimens revealed that their teeth are smaller and comparable to those of modern domestic groups in China.

“As humans began to settle and cultivate their own food, wild boars would have been drawn to these settlements,” Dr. Wang stated.

“These communities generated substantial waste, attracting scavengers in search of food.

This dynamic in animal domestication is termed a symbiotic pathway, where animals are drawn to human environments without the need for direct human action in adopting them.

Data also suggests that early interactions may include domesticated pigs under some level of human control, indicating a trajectory of prey pathways in the domestication process.

“Our study indicates that certain wild boars began their journey toward domestication by foraging human waste,” Dr. Wang concluded.

“This research also underscores the potential connection between pig domestication and the transmission of parasitic diseases in early settled communities.”

The study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

____

Jiajing Wang et al. 2025. Early evidence of pig domestication in the lower Yangtze region of southern China (8,000 cal. bp). PNAS 122 (24): E2507123122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2507123122

Source: www.sci.news

EPA to Relax Mercury Restrictions on Power Plants

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Environmental Protection Agency is poised to roll back Biden-era regulations aimed at limiting pollutants, including mercury emissions, a neurotoxin harmful to brain development, as per internal agency documents.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin is set to unveil these proposed changes shortly, as informed by two individuals familiar with the agency’s intentions. He will also introduce another proposal to lift greenhouse gas restrictions on power plants, according to sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information.

These alterations signify a rejection of the Biden administration’s initiatives to combat climate change and address the significant air pollution plaguing communities near power plants and industrial sites. Legal challenges are anticipated concerning these rules later this year.

This move aligns with a broader plan by the Trump administration to extend fossil fuel usage, which has exacerbated global warming. President Trump has recently taken multiple steps to bolster the reliance on polluting coal.

An EPA representative did not confirm specifics about the new regulations or the timeline for their release. However, Zeldin stated that he “opposes the shutdown of clean, affordable, and reliable energy for American families.”

He added, “The EPA should adopt sensible regulations to foster a great American recovery, instead of continuing the path of devastation and impoverishment of the previous administration.”

Zeldin’s proposal regarding mercury and other hazardous substances, as reported by the New York Times, speculates that in 2024, the Biden administration would “unjustly target” coal-fired power plants if contamination levels were restricted.

The documents indicate that new regulations will relax emission limits for harmful substances like lead, nickel, and arsenic by 67%. For certain coal plants, the proposed rule would decrease the mercury limit by 70%, while also dispensing with the requirement for all plants to continually monitor chimney emissions.

These amendments counter the most stringent rules set by the Biden administration, which aimed to reduce dangerous toxins and encourage a shift from coal-fired plants to renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Burning coal emits mercury, which can contaminate land, oceans, and waterways. According to the EPA, coal-fired power plants are responsible for 44% of all mercury emissions in the United States.

In the atmosphere, mercury emissions transform into a toxic form known as methyl mercury, which accumulates in fish and other food sources. This exposure can lead to significant neurological harm in developing fetuses and children, and is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in adults.

“Children’s brains are growing rapidly, and mercury exposure can severely impact their development,” remarked Matthew Davis, a former EPA official. The initial regulations aimed at reducing mercury emissions from coal plants were established during the Obama administration.

The federal government first enacted strict controls on mercury emissions from power plants in 2011 under President Barack Obama. Following this, regulations were loosened during the initial Trump administration, but were tightened again under Biden. In October, the Supreme Court dismissed requests from 23 Republican states and some coal companies, preventing the reversal of the policy.

In April, the Trump administration granted exemptions for numerous coal-fired power plants from mercury and other air pollutant restrictions. Davis, currently the vice president for federal policy at the Conservation Voters Federation, referred to these as “get-out-of-jail-free cards” for polluters.

“This administration aims to demolish protections for our health and demonstrates indifference toward the well-being of future generations who might suffer from the harmful effects of this toxic substance,” he said.

Anticipated regulations aimed at weakening mercury standards are expected to accompany plans to eliminate all restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.

As per the latest data available on the EPA website, the electricity sector is the second largest contributor to greenhouse gases, following transportation. Power plants are responsible for approximately 30% of the pollution driving climate change globally.

However, according to a draft rule examined by The New York Times, Zeldin plans to contend that emissions from U.S. power plants have not contributed “significantly” to climate change.

He claims that emissions from U.S. fossil fuel-burning power plants accounted for only 3% of global greenhouse gases in 2022, down from 5.5% in 2005.

Analysts, however, argue that the Trump administration is making misleading comparisons. U.S. power plants were responsible for about 25% of greenhouse gas emissions produced in the country in 2022, with approximately 1.5 billion tons in emissions projected for 2023, exceeding total emissions from most countries.

Laura Kate Bender, assistant vice president of the American Lung Association, described this outdated rationale as a “setback” in combating climate change and air pollution.

“Together, these rules could lead to increased pollution that could have been avoided for communities surrounding power plants, exposing them to more harmful emissions that could have been mitigated,” she stated.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Democrats Question Cuts Leader: Who’s Making the Decisions?

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As the Trump administration winds down its recent medical research funding initiatives, there have been ongoing concerns among scientists and administrators at the National Institutes of Health regarding Dr. Jay Bhattacharya’s level of autonomy as the director of the institution.

The government’s efficiency project, championed by Elon Musk to reduce costs, has impacted decisions related to the cancellation or postponement of research grants. Some initiatives have also been adversely affected by President Trump’s confrontation with universities over anti-Semitism. However, during a Senate committee hearing on Tuesday, Dr. Bhattacharya had a chance to clarify his influence at the NIH but opted not to take ownership of the institution’s longstanding fundraising efforts.

When questioned about the freeze on grant payments to Northwestern University, Dr. Bhattacharya remarked, “That occurred before my tenure,” referring to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

He emphasized that the proposal to cut the NIH budget to $18 billion (a nearly 40% reduction) stemmed from “congress-administrator collaboration,” and he refrained from elaborating on how these cuts might impact institutions.

Further funding cuts were necessitated by rising research costs—an action integrated into the administration’s 2026 budget proposal. Dr. Bhattacharya mentioned ongoing litigation, stating, “I don’t want to delve into it.”

Several Democrats on the committee expressed confusion regarding the decision-making process at the agency.

Senator Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat from Wisconsin, asked, “Who is withholding these funds?” citing evidence that the NIH reduced grants by billions compared to the previous year. “Is it you? Is it the OMB?” she inquired, referencing the Office of Management and Budget. “Who makes these decisions?”

Dr. Bhattacharya responded, “There are many various decisions. For instance, it was his choice to pivot from what is termed ‘politicized science,’ a phrase he previously used to describe research concerning diversity and equity issues. However, he asserted that restricting research funding at Harvard and other prominent institutions was in “collaboration with the administration.”

Senator Dick Durbin from Illinois reacted sharply after Dr. Bhattacharya distanced himself from the decisions regarding funding for the halted study at Northwestern.

An email from an NIH staff member in mid-April, weeks post Dr. Bhattacharya’s confirmation, instructed employees to refrain from issuing grants to Northwestern and various other universities, without notifying them of the reasons for the funding freeze.

“The buck stops at your office,” Durbin said to Dr. Bhattacharya. “Don’t shift the blame.”

The Trump administration’s plans for significant spending cuts at the agency have drawn criticism from both parties, including Republican Senator Susan Collins from Maine.

She told Dr. Bhattacharya that the proposed cuts are “very intrusive,” warning that they could delay or halt the development of effective treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s, cancer, and type 1 diabetes, potentially leaving the U.S. “lagging behind China.”

In response, Dr. Bhattacharya noted that the NIH is engaged in Alzheimer’s and other disease research and will collaborate with lawmakers to address “the health needs of all Americans.”

The director hinted at a possible agreement between the Trump administration and major universities regarding the restoration of medical research funding, yet he did not offer details on the prospects of such an agreement or its prerequisites. “I am very hopeful for a resolution with the universities regarding the grants that have been suspended,” he stated.

In recent years, the NIH has abruptly terminated over 1,300 grant awards and postponed funding for more than 1,000 additional projects. On Monday, numerous NIH employees signed a letter asserting that these actions were dictated by ideological biases and lacked input from scientific staff, effectively suppressing research on health disparities, COVID-19, climate change, and the impacts on sexual health.

On Tuesday, Dr. Bhattacharya stated that scientists have established a process for appealing against funding reductions, and the agency intends to file appeals within weeks.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Niede Guidon, 92, Archaeologist Renowned for Preserving Prehistoric Rock Art, Passes Away

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nide Guin, a Brazilian archaeologist known for challenging long-held theories about early human life in the Americas, significantly influenced the transformation of the Hard Scrabble region in northeastern Brazil into Serra da Capybara National Park. She passed away on Wednesday at her home near the park in Saint-Rymande Nohto, at the age of 92.

According to park director Marian Rodriguez, the cause of death was a heart attack.

Dr. Guidon gained international recognition for her controversial assertion that humans may have arrived in the Americas over 30,000 years ago. However, there was little dispute about her accomplishments in documenting and preserving ancient rock paintings in Piau’s semi-arid, cactus-laden landscape.

In 1979, following her claims, the Brazilian government designated the area as a national park, and by 1991, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, largely thanks to her efforts. She also played a crucial role in establishing two nearby museums: the American Museum opened in 1996, and the Natural Museum in 2018. Moreover, she was instrumental in attracting investment to the town, leading to the creation of a new airport and a federal university campus, thereby enhancing public education in the region.

Antoine Lourdes, a French archaeologist who collaborated with Dr. Guidon from 2006 for nearly a decade, remarked in an interview, “The most effective way to safeguard the paintings was to empower people to protect their environment.” He emphasized that many archaeologists are often unaware of the social implications of their work.

Dr. Guidon was particularly adept at training and employing women in regions where domestic violence and gender inequality prevailed. Dr. Guidon’s 2023 biography captures many poignant testimonies from women who achieved financial independence and improved their situations significantly.

In addition to her work in parks and museums, many locals have become guides and custodians. Local products like honey and ceramics are sold across the nation, thanks to an initiative Dr. Guidon launched in the 1990s.

Nide Guidon was born on March 12, 1933, in Hau, a small city in São Paulo. While “Nade” is a common Brazilian name, “Nide” is not. She was named after the River Need, which flows through France and Germany, reflecting her father’s French heritage.

After obtaining a degree in natural history from the University of São Paulo in 1958, Guidon began her career as a teacher in a small Roman Catholic community in Itápolis. However, following her exposure of corruption within the school system in early 1959, she faced backlash from the town’s administrators.

As a single woman who drove cars, publicly taught evolution, and challenged conservative norms, she became a target in the traditional town of Itápolis. Following intense protests, she and two colleagues were forced to flee with police protection.

“All that was missing to complete the medieval scene was a bonfire to burn witches,” she recounted to reporters at that time. A 2024 podcast delves into her life.

Later that year, she secured a position at the Paulista Museum in São Paulo, where her interest in archaeology blossomed, particularly during an exhibition showcasing rock paintings from northeastern Brazil.

However, her initial attempts to see the paintings in 1963 were thwarted by a bridge collapse that blocked access. Following a brief exile in Paris, she was arrested by the military dictatorship that had taken power in Brazil.

While studying archaeology in France, she earned her PhD from the University of Paris in 1975, returning to Brazil frequently for fieldwork. By 1970, Dr. Guidon finally visited the rock paintings in Piau, intrigued by their complexity, and began organizing teams for extensive cataloging of hundreds of archaeological sites.

She settled in San Raimundo Nonato in 1986, where she became known affectionately as “the doctor.”

In the 1990s, excavations near the painting sites uncovered carbon-dated materials suggesting human presence 30,000 years ago — a finding that astonished Dr. Guidon. Yet, other scientists, particularly those adhering to the Clovis model, were highly skeptical, proposing that humans arrived in the Americas much later, around 13,000 years ago.

While the consensus today acknowledges ancient human settlement in North America, Dr. Guidon’s findings continue to spark debate, as questions linger regarding the origins of the materials uncovered near the painted area.

Nevertheless, her work has drawn attention, funding, and resources to Piau, with even some of her academic critics recognizing her contributions.

Andre Strauss, an archaeologist at the University of São Paulo, expressed his doubts about some of Dr. Guidon’s findings but acknowledged her charisma. He likened her to Churchill, noting her ability to engage people dramatically. Despite the scholarly debates, she never abandoned the vibrant life she carved out in Paris.

On the morning of June 5th, she was laid to rest in the garden of her home in San Raimundo Nonato.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Ready for Launch: SpaceX Preparations

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A four-member team is set to launch on Wednesday for a privately funded mission to the International Space Station.

The flight, organized by Houston’s Axiom Space, will take off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 8 am. The crew will travel into orbit aboard SpaceX Crew Dragon capsules positioned above a Falcon 9 rocket.

NASA will provide live coverage of the launch, beginning at 7:05 am ET NASA+.

Originally set for Tuesday, the launch was postponed by a day due to strong winds along the Florida coastline. This mission, named AX-4, is anticipated to last approximately two weeks at the International Space Station.

Retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who has spent a total of 675 days in space, is leading the mission. Joining her are Pilot Shuvanshu Shukra, an astronaut from the Indian Space Research Institute, Mission Specialist Sworsis Uznaviywiyyewsky, a Polish scientist with the European Space Agency, and Tibor Kapu, a mechanical engineer from Hungary.

From left: Tibor Kapu, Hungarian AX-4 crew member, Shuvansh Shukla, Indian Space Research Agency astronaut, Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut, and Swaus Uznash Wy Winni Nievski, astronaut from the European Space Agency.
SpaceX

Shukla, Uznaskiwinievsky, and Kapu are making history as the first individuals from their respective countries to live and work on the International Space Station.

During their two-week tenure at the Orbital Lab, the AX-4 crew will conduct various scientific experiments. According to NASA, this includes muscle regeneration studies, examining how Brussels sprouts and edible microalgae grow in microgravity, and how small aquatic organisms thrive on the ISS.

If the launch proceeds as planned, the four astronauts are expected to dock with the space station around 12:30 pm on Thursday.

This upcoming flight marks the fourth crew mission for Axiom Space and will be pivotal for the International Space Station. The company’s inaugural private expedition to the ISS occurred in 2022, featuring an entirely civilian crew.

While the financial details for the AX-4 mission remain undisclosed, it has been reported that space tourists paid approximately $55 million per seat on previous Axiom missions.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Journey of Ancient Human Achievement in South America

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ancient Migration: A Journey Through a Colder Climate to the Americas

Getty Images/iStockphoto

This excerpt comes from our Human Stories newsletter, which explores the archaeological revolution. Subscribe to receive it monthly in your inbox.

The main theme of Human Stories revolves around the global migration of our species. From their origins in Africa, our ancestors traveled to Europe, Asia, Australia, and eventually reached the Americas. South America was the last continent they settled, with Antarctica being the notable exception.

This chapter of our history remains somewhat enigmatic. While ample research has focused on human migration into Europe, Asia, and North America, far less attention has been directed toward their entrance into South America.

Reflecting on this, I discovered that my previous detailed analysis of South America appeared in June 2023.

However, this narrative is beginning to evolve. On May 15th, a significant genetic study was published in Science, unveiling crucial insights into early inhabitants of South America. This extensive research indicates a diverse population across different regions, revealing a fourfold division of early groups. These findings align with newer stories of remarkable journeys and the extraordinary risks taken in the quest for new lands.

A Complex Journey

If you consider how Homo sapiens evolved in Africa, the task of reaching South America becomes apparent. The vast Atlantic Ocean acted as a major barrier between continents, complicating the path for humans.

This migration was not premeditated; at that time, people had no knowledge of South America’s existence. They journeyed as far as they could see, moving from Africa to Southwest Asia, and eventually to various parts of Eurasia. Some even ventured as far as the easternmost regions of Asia, now known as Chukotka in the Russian Far East.

From there, it was a relatively short journey to present-day Alaska in northwest North America. Evidence suggests humans arrived at least 16,000 years ago. Today, the Bering Strait—a mere 82 kilometers across—seems a significant barrier. However, thousands of years ago, colder climates meant lower sea levels, creating land connections between Asia and North America, notably Beringia. People may have unknowingly traversed what would become a monumental migration.

Supporting this theory, a study released in May highlighted that horses traveled regularly between North America and Asia via Beringia between 50,000 and 13,000 years ago, suggesting humans could have followed suit.

Additionally, recent findings indicate that the bacteria responsible for leprosy originated in America, with studies revealing Mycobacterium repromatosis has been present in the Americas for approximately 10,000 years.

For unknown reasons, the earliest groups of Americans moved southward. Some utilized boats along the Pacific coast, while others ventured inland, ultimately reaching the southernmost tip of South America.

The archaeological record of these groups is rich. A study published in February analyzed a large collection of artifacts dating back 10,000 to 11,000 years in the Takualembo region of Uruguay.

Who were these early South Americans? That’s where new genetic research comes into play.

Continuing the Journey

Led by Hie Lim Kim from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, researchers compiled genomic data from 1,537 individuals across 139 ethnic groups. This included individuals with ties to northern Eurasian populations, as well as groups from the Americas, particularly South America.

“Our study showcases the history of this vast migration,” Kim states.

Between 13,900 and 10,000 years ago, the initial settlers of South America divided into four genetically distinct groups. Signs of these genetic patterns persist in modern South Americans.

Kim highlights the challenge of providing a comprehensive account of these findings. While the study identifies genetic differences among populations, they don’t necessarily align with cultural traits. “We didn’t categorize them by culture or language,” she explains, “but solely based on ancestry.”

With this caveat, Kim’s team identified four groups: Amazonians, Andeans, Chaco Amerindians, and Patagonians, named for regions where contemporary genetic signals are strongest. For instance, Amazon ancestry aligns with current populations in the Amazon rainforest, Andean ancestry with those in the Andes mountains, and Patagonian ancestry with people from southern Argentina. The Chaco Amerindian lineage is traced to the Dry Chaco, spanning parts of Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. “They are predominantly hunter-gatherers in arid regions,” says Kim.

Once these groups branched out, signs of significant gene flow between them became scarce. “They have never intermingled again,” says Kim, suggesting geographic barriers like the Andes may have fostered this separation.

However, Kim asserts this is likely not the entire narrative, as additional groups may exist. “Our sample from Brazil is limited,” she notes. “Many ethnic groups in the Amazon remain unexplored.”

Recent research further enriches this narrative. In March, archaeological evidence pointed to a location known as Southern Corn, situated near the 22nd parallel south encompassing northern Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, and Uruguay.

Another study from March detailed the journey of the Guarani, who traversed over 2,500 kilometers across South America, ultimately reaching the mouth of the Rio de la Plata estuary, now Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

Late May research uncovered the risks associated with migration; ancient Colombian DNA indicated an unknown hunter-gatherer population that inhabited the Bogotá Altiplano around 6,000 years ago. By 2,000 years ago, they were replaced by Central American populations, leaving no trace in today’s genetic pool.

South America is vast, and we have merely scratched the surface of its complex history. Numerous untold stories lie waiting to be uncovered.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Meta’s AI Memorable Book Verbatim – Can Cost Billions

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In April, authors and publishers protested utilizing copyrighted books for AI training

Vuk Valcic/Alamy Live News

Amid legal battles, billions are at stake as courts in the US and UK deliberate on whether technology firms can legitimately train AI models using copyrighted literature. Numerous lawsuits have been filed by authors and publishers, revealing that at least one AI model has not only utilized popular texts for training but has also memorized portions of these works verbatim.

The crux of the dispute lies in whether AI developers hold the legal authority to employ copyrighted materials without obtaining prior permission. Previous research highlighted that many large language models (LLMs) powering popular AI chatbots were trained on the “Books3” dataset. Developers of these models argued they were not infringing copyright, claiming they were generating new combinations of words rather than directly reproducing the copyrighted content.

However, recent investigations have examined various AI models to determine the extent of verbatim recall from their training datasets. While most models did not retain exact texts, one particular model from Meta remembered nearly the entire text of a specific book. Should the ruling be unfavorable to the company, researchers predict damages could exceed $1 billion.

“AI models are not merely ‘plagiarism machines’ as some suggest; they do not just capture general relationships among words,” explained Mark Remley from Stanford University. “The diversity in responses among different models complicates the establishment of universal legal standards.”

Previously, Lemley defended Meta in a copyright case involving generative AI known as Kadrey V Meta Platforms. The plaintiff, whose works were used to train Meta’s AI models, filed a class-action lawsuit against the tech giant for copyright infringement. The case is currently under consideration in Northern California.

In January 2025, Remley announced he had parted ways with Meta as a client, yet he remains convinced of the company’s favorable chances in the lawsuit. Emile Vasquez, a Meta spokesperson, stated, “Fair use of copyrighted materials is crucial. We challenge the plaintiff’s claims, and the full record presents a different narrative.”

In this new study, Lemley and his team evaluated the memory capabilities of the AI by dividing excerpts from a small book into prefix and suffix segments, checking if a model prompted with the prefix could recall the suffix. For instance, one excerpt from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby was divided into a prefix that read, “They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they broke things and creatures and then retreated,” and a suffix that concluded with, “We went back to money and their vast carelessness, which kept them together and allowed them to clean up any mess that other people had made.”

Researchers calculated the probability of each AI model completing the excerpt accurately and compared these probabilities against random chance.

The tested excerpts included selections from 36 copyrighted works, featuring popular titles by authors like George RR Martin’s Games and Cheryl Sandberg’s Lean In. Additionally, excerpts from books authored by plaintiffs in the Kadrey V Meta Platforms case were also examined.

The experiments involved 13 open-source AI models, including those created by Meta, Google, DeepMind, EleutherAI, and Microsoft. Most companies outside of Meta did not provide comments, with Microsoft opting not to comment.

The analysis revealed that Meta’s Llama 3.1 70b model had a significant recall of texts from JK Rowling’s first Harry Potter tome, as well as from The Great Gatsby and George Orwell’s 1984. Other models, however, showed minimal recall of the texts, including those penned by the plaintiffs. Meta declined to comment on these findings.

Researchers estimate that an AI model found to have infringed on merely 3% of the Books3 dataset could incur almost $1 billion in damages.

This technique has potential as a “forensic tool” for gauging the extent of AI memory, as noted by Randy McCarthy from Hallestill Law Office in Oklahoma. Yet, it does not address whether companies are legally permitted to train AI models on copyrighted works under US “fair use” provisions.

McCarthy points out that AI firms generally utilize copyrighted material for training. “The real question is whether they had the right to do so,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, in the UK, memory assessment is crucial from a copyright perspective, according to Robert Lands from Howard Kennedy Law Office in London. UK copyright legislation adheres to “fair dealing,” which presents much narrower allowances for copyright infringement compared to US fair use doctrine. Therefore, he posits that AI models retaining pirated content would not satisfy this exception.

Topics:

artificial intelligence/
Law

Source: www.newscientist.com

Gene Editing Offers Hope for “Irreversible” Kidney Disease Damage Treatment

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Kidney disease can result in hypertension and infections

Mohammed Haneefa Nizamudeen/Getty Images

Recent animal research suggests that damage caused by the most prevalent hereditary kidney disease may not be as irreversible as previously thought. Researchers are using CRISPR gene editing to potentially reverse certain mutations responsible for the condition.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) gradually alters kidney function, leading to debilitating effects. “It was generally believed that correcting the mutations would not change the outcome,” says Michael Kaminski from Berlin University of Medicine.

PKD results in the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys and liver, leading to organ failure and necessitating dialysis or transplants. Besides organ failure, damage and swelling can lead to other severe issues, including high blood pressure and infections.

The disease typically affects adults, with approximately 12 million individuals globally estimated to be affected. Symptoms may not manifest until the cysts reach significant size in one’s 30s, by which point there may already be extensive damage to the kidneys and liver.

Kaminski’s team has utilized a CRISPR method known as base editing to correct mutations in the PKD1 gene in mice models.

This technique successfully corrected mutations primarily in the liver, resulting in a reduction in both the size and number of cysts post-treatment. Kaminski noted potential improvements in the kidneys as well.

Specifically, Xiaogang Li’s team at Mayo Clinic conducted a similar study using more precise methods targeting the kidneys, indicating a reduction in cyst size and quantity, according to Li.

Both teams employed viral vectors to deliver gene-editing tools, which poses challenges with repeated doses due to immune responses might hinder treatment. “This is a legitimate concern,” Li notes. “However, we’ve observed limited immune responses in our animal models so far.”

Utilizing lipid nanoparticles instead of viral vectors, as seen in mRNA vaccines, could mitigate immune-related issues, but Kaminski warns that these particles may struggle to penetrate deeply into the kidneys through the bloodstream. “I believe that the delivery method using [lipid nanoparticles] might become more feasible through urinary pathways,” he says.

Another limitation is that base editing primarily addresses single-character mutations, rendering it ineffective for individuals with longer mutation sequences. However, Li reports successful outcomes using a technique known as Prime editing.

These findings are poised to be published shortly in scientific journals, with plans for human trials to follow. “After our publication, I aim to organize a small clinical trial,” he states.

The broader implications of this research suggest that if PKD can indeed be reversed, it could ignite more research into this potential therapeutic avenue. Currently, the only approved treatment is tolvaptan, which only slightly slows disease progression and requires significant fluid intake.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Astronomers May Have Detected a Gas Giant Still Forming Around RIK 113

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing ESO’s Extremely Large Telescope (VLT) have captured stunning images of a highly structured planetary formation disc surrounding the star Rik 113.

This image, captured with a very large telescope at ESO in Chile, illustrates the RIK113 system. Image credits: ESO/Ginski et al.

RIK 113 is located approximately 431 light-years away in the constellation Scorpio.

Also referred to as 2MASSJ16120668-3010270, this star hosts a structured protoplanetary disc.

“In a study published last year, the intricate nature of this protoplanetary disc was first unveiled by the Atacama Large Millimeter/sub-millimeter Array (ALMA),” remarked Galway astronomer Christian Ginsky and colleagues.

“These findings indicated the presence of gaps, suggestive of planet-like objects within them.”

“This prompted the team to conduct follow-up observations using ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT).”

Employing VLT’s Sphere Instrument, Dr. Ginski and co-authors obtained a new image of the system, revealing an appealing spiral feature in the inner ring.

“Our team is currently examining nearly 100 planet-forming discs around nearby stars, and these images are exceptional,” Dr. Ginsky noted.

“It is rare to find a system exhibiting both rings and spiral arms. This aligns almost perfectly with predictions regarding how planets form from the parent disk, according to theoretical models.”

“Such detections bring us a step closer to comprehending how planets, in general, formed and the origins of our solar system in the far past.”

A detailed analysis of the VLT/Sphere data hinted at two potential signals, as well as two possible signals from a protoplanet orbiting Rik 113, close to the original detection by ALMA.

At this stage, these signals serve more as proposals than definitive confirmations.

Nonetheless, these results are highly promising for future explorations, with both ALMA and VLT studies indicating the presence of at least one planet.

“We identified an inner disc (up to 40 AU) with two spiral arms, which are separated by a gap from the outer ring extending to 115 AU,” the astronomer stated.

“Comparing with unique and hydrodynamic models from the literature, we found that these structures are consistent with the existence of embedded gas giants, with masses ranging from 0.1 to 5 Jupiter masses depending on the model and its underlying assumptions.”

“The RIK 113 system is one of the few that displays this remarkable form of spiral arms amidst the scattered gaps of light and the ring,” they added.

“We hypothesize that this could be linked to higher disk viscosity compared to other systems, such as PDS 70.”

“If a planet in the disk is confirmed, RIK 113 will become a focal point for studying planetary disk interactions.”

Study published online in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

____

C. Ginsky et al. 2025. Disk evolution studies with imaging of nearby young stars (Destinys): 2MassJ16120668-3010270 Evidence of planetary disk interaction in the system. A&A in press; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202451647

Source: www.sci.news

IBM Plans to Develop a Functional Quantum Supercomputer by 2029

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rendering of IBM’s proposed quantum supercomputer

IBM

In less than five years, you’ll have access to a Quantum SuperComputer without errors, according to IBM. The company has unveiled a roadmap for a machine named Starling, set to be available for academic and industrial researchers by 2029.

“These are scientific dreams that have been transformed into engineering achievements,” says Jay Gambetta at IBM. He mentions that he and his team have developed all the required components to make Starling a reality, giving them confidence in their ambitious timeline. The new systems will be based in a New York data center and are expected to aid in manufacturing novel chemicals and materials.

IBM has already constructed a fleet of quantum computers, yet the path to truly user-friendly devices remains challenging, with little competition in the field. Errors continue to thwart many efforts to utilize quantum effects for solving problems that typical supercomputers struggle with.

This underscores the necessity for a fault-tolerant quantum computer that can autonomously correct its mistakes. Such capabilities lead to larger, more powerful devices. There is no universal agreement on the optimal strategy to tackle these challenges, prompting the research team to explore various approaches.

All quantum computers depend on qubits, yet different groups create these essential units from light particles, extremely cold atoms, and in Starling’s case, superconducting qubits. IBM is banking on two innovations to enhance its robustness against significant errors.

First, Starling establishes new connections among its qubits, including those that are quite distant from one another. Each qubit is embedded within a chip, and researchers have innovated new hardware to link these components within a single chip and connect multiple chips together. This advancement enables Starling to be larger than its forerunners while allowing it to execute more complex programs.

According to Gambetta, Starling will employ tens of thousands of qubits, permitting 100 million quantum manipulations. Currently, the largest quantum computers house around 1,000 physical qubits, grouped into roughly 200 “logical qubits.” Within each logical qubit, several qubits function together as a single computational unit resilient to errors. The current record for logical qubits belongs to the Quantum Computing Company Quantinuum with a count of 50.

IBM is implementing a novel method for merging physical qubits into logical qubits via LDPC codes. This marks a significant shift from previous methods employed in other superconducting quantum computers. Gambetta notes that utilizing LDPC codes was once seen as a “pipe dream,” but his team has now realized crucial details to make it feasible.

The benefit of this somewhat unconventional technique is that each logical qubit created with an LDPC approach requires fewer physical qubits compared to competing strategies. Consequently, they are smaller and faster error correction becomes achievable.

“IBM has consistently set ambitious goals and accomplished significant milestones over the years,” states Stephen Bartlett from the University of Sydney. “They have achieved notable innovations and improvements in the last five years, and this represents a genuine breakthrough.” He points out that both the distant qubits and the new hardware for connecting the logical qubit codes deviate from the well-performing devices IBM previously developed, necessitating extensive testing. “It looks promising, but it also requires a leap of faith,” Bartlett adds.

Matthew Otten from the University of Wisconsin-Madison mentions that LDPC codes have only been seriously explored in recent years, and IBM’s roadmap clarifies how it functions. He emphasizes its importance as it helps researchers pinpoint potential bottlenecks and trade-offs. For example, he notes that Starling may operate slower than current superconducting quantum computers.

At its intended scale, the device could address challenges relevant to sectors such as pharmaceuticals. Here, simulations of small molecules or proteins on quantum computers like Starling could replace costly and cumbersome experimental steps in drug development, Otten explains.

IBM isn’t the only contender in the quantum computing sector planning significant advancements. For instance, Quantinuum and Psiquantum have also announced their intentions to develop fault-tolerant utility-scale machines by 2029 and 2027, respectively.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Are We Aliens? A New Question for Exploration

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Journey with Dinosaurs

Take a look behind the scenes of the BBC’s remarkable new series and discover a wealth of dinosaurs that will reshape our understanding of the prehistoric era.

Canine Companionship

We all wish for more quality time with our dogs. Biotech firms are currently exploring ways to enhance the healthy lifespan of our beloved pets… and possibly uncovering secrets to human longevity.

Building Self-Confidence

Confidence is all about self-assurance. Psychologists believe this is a skill we can cultivate, often simpler than we think. Neuroscience suggests various methods to enhance your self-belief.

Cholesterol Reduction

Is it possible to lower cholesterol without statins? Research indicates that we can improve our cholesterol levels with some straightforward dietary adjustments.

Additionally

Life at the World’s End:The challenges faced by scientists working in Antarctica extend beyond harsh conditions and extreme isolation; they must also navigate the potential hazards they pose to one another. We provide a glimpse into life at one of the globe’s most remote research facilities.
AI as Therapist:While people utilize AI chatbots as mental health supporters, how dependable is the assistance offered by artificial intelligence? We consulted a licensed therapist for insights.
Q&A:Your queries addressed! This month: Why do emotions manifest in various body parts? Are receipts truly coated with chemicals? What scent does a mummy emit? How does background radiation impact particle detectors? What is the average weight of a human body? Are negative calorie foods a reality? Do different ocean tides influence one another? And much more…

Issue 420 Available for Purchase on Tuesday, June 10th, 2025

Remember, BBC Science Focus is accessible on all major digital platforms. You can find versions for Android, Kindle Fire and Kindle e-book readers, as well as an iOS app for iPad and iPhone.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Can Your Brain Communicate with Others While You Sleep? This Experiment Says Yes.

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Modern machine learning technology has demonstrated the ability to visualize our dreams. But what if you wish to take it a step further and share your dreams?

At present, we are capable of interpreting brain signals to obtain a vague understanding of imaginary scenes and overarching concepts, yet there is no method for transferring these ideas from one brain to another. Perhaps this is for the best. Many might feel uneasy at the thought of a computer implanting ideas into our minds while we sleep.

Our current means of communication rely on our sensory capabilities. Words that are whispered into your ears during sleep could serve as a method to convey information between two sleeping individuals. However, how can people communicate while asleep? The answer is more complicated than it seems.

Individuals who talk in their sleep (referred to as Somniloquists) often do so as a result of stress, and their peculiar utterances are not within their conscious control. Moreover, our capacity to hear while asleep is limited; sounds during sleep can disrupt it, causing both stress and dreams to the sleeper.

Yet, there is a particular dream that may be beneficial: the Akaid Dream. This unique type of dream allows the dreamer to recognize that they are still asleep. With some practice and various techniques, this can be guided.

In this state, could two dreamers actually communicate?

The company Rem Space claims not only that this is possible but also that they have achieved it.

They employed external stimuli to aid one sleeper in transitioning to a lucid dreaming state. The sleeper then conveyed a message through earphones, which was recorded by a computer as the lucid dreamer repeated the words in their sleep.

Eight minutes later, the message was played back to the second lucid dreamer, who confirmed hearing the words upon waking. While this may not serve a practical purpose in our current state, it did represent a form of communication within a dream.

There is, however, another type of shared thought that might prove more useful.

Researchers are currently demonstrating that individuals who work closely together begin to synchronize their brain waves. This phenomenon can occur in situations where musicians are tightly synchronized or in social groups where a strong connection is felt.

Inter-brain synchronization is observable through precise “hypersensitivity” with an electroencephalography (EEG) scanner that tracks brain waves. These can originate from theta waves (produced when we are deeply relaxed), alpha waves (when we are calm), or beta waves (when we are focused and active).

When these brain waves, particularly beta waves, synchronize among two or more individuals, they often collaborate more effectively, show enhanced empathy, and even display a reduced sensitivity to pain. Teams with synchronized neural activity typically perform better overall.

The best part is that no artificial intelligence or brain scanners are required!

To cultivate neural synchronization among those who wish to share experiences: engage in activities like listening to music together, dancing, collaborating, solving problems, or simply conversing. This sort of spiritual connection is available to us for free and brings substantial benefits.

This article responds to the question posed by Idris Wise via email: “Can you communicate in a dream?”

Feel free to email us your questions at Question @sciencefocus.com or send a message through Facebook, Twitter or Instagram (don’t forget to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

This Magnetic Safe Offers Rapid Storage for the World’s Most Dangerous Substances

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Antimatter particles are fundamentally similar to their normal matter counterparts, differing primarily in their opposite charges and momentum.

Although extremely rare, physicists routinely generate antiparticles using particle accelerators. Additionally, anti-Dutters occur naturally in high-energy processes near the event horizons of black holes.

The question of how and why the universe is predominantly made up of normal matter remains unresolved.

Creating antimatter is a complex and costly endeavor. The European Institute of Particle Physics (CERN) plays a crucial role in this process. Using an anti-proton decelerator, a proton beam strikes a metal target, resulting in the generation of anti-protons.

However, this process only yields tens of thousands of particles.

One of the significant challenges with antimatter is that when it interacts with normal matter, it vanishes instantly, releasing energy. Therefore, the task of preventing its annihilation and storing it long-term poses a substantial technical hurdle.

Nonetheless, CERN engineers are working on methods to store and transport small amounts of anti-protons.

The challenge with antimatter is that it completely disappears upon contact with normal matter, releasing energy. – Image credits: Getty Images

To achieve this, researchers cool anti-protons to approximately -269ºC (-452.2°F) to nearly halt their motion. They then contain them in a high-vacuum enclosure to avoid contact with normal matter, using superconducting magnets to trap them.

This process must be managed while maintaining the capability to extract particles and introduce new ones into the enclosure.

Despite these challenges, CERN aims to develop “traps” capable of storing billions of anti-protons simultaneously. Recent techniques have been validated by transporting regular matter across the Swiss CERN facility.

With advancements in vacuum systems, antimatter storage and transport may soon become routine activities in the upcoming year.

This article addresses the question posed by Leighton Haas of Hamburg: “How is antimatter preserved?”

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com