Deep Microorganisms Capable of Harnessing Energy from Earthquakes

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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Microorganisms may derive energy from surprisingly confined environments

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SEI 261182732 — Microorganisms may derive energy from surprisingly confined environments

Book Worms / Public Domain Sources from Aramie / Access Rights

Fractured rocks from earthquakes could reveal a variety of chemical energy sources for the microorganisms thriving deep beneath the surface, and similar mechanisms may feed microorganisms on other planets.

“This opens up an entirely new metabolic possibility,” says Kurt Konhauser, from the University of Alberta, Canada.

All life forms on Earth rely on flowing electrons to sustain themselves. On the planet’s surface, plants harness sunlight to create carbon-based sugars that are consumed by animals, including humans. This initiates a flow of electrons from the carbon to the oxygen we breathe. The chemical gradient formed by these carbon electron donors and oxygen electron acceptors, known as redox pairs, generates energy.

Underground, microbes also depend on redox pairs, but these deep ecosystems lack access to various solar energy forms. Hence, traditional carbon-oxygen pairings are inadequate. “Challenges remain in identifying these underground [chemical gradients]. Where do they originate?” Konhauser questions.

Hydrogen gas, generated by the interaction of water and rock, serves as a primary electron source for these microbes, much like carbon sugars do on the surface. This hydrogen arises from the breakdown of water molecules, which can occur when radioactive rocks react with water or iron-rich formations. During earthquakes, when silicate rocks are fragmented, they expose reactive surfaces that can split water, producing considerable amounts of hydrogen.

However, to utilize that hydrogen, microorganisms require electron acceptors to complete the redox pair. Attributing value solely to hydrogen is misleading. “Having the food is great, but without a fork, you can’t eat it,” remarks Barbara Sherwood Lollar from the University of Toronto, Canada.

Konhauser, Sherwood Lollar, and their research team employed rock-crushing machines to simulate the reactions that yield hydrogen gas within geological settings, which could subsequently form a complete redox pair. They crushed quartz crystals, mimicking strains in various types of faults and mixing the water present in most rocks with different iron and rock forms.

The crushed quartz reacted with water to generate significant quantities of hydrogen, both in stable molecular forms and more reactive species. The team’s findings revealed many of these hydrogen radicals react with iron-rich liquids, creating numerous compounds capable of either donating or accepting enough electrons to establish different redox pairs.

“Numerous rocks can be harnessed for energy,” Konhauser pointed out. “These reactions mediate diverse chemical processes, suggesting various microorganisms can thrive.” Secondary reactions involving nitrogen or sulfur could yield even broader energy sources.

“I was astonished by the quantities,” said Magdalena Osburn from Northwestern University, Illinois. “It produces immense quantities of hydrogen, and it also initiates fascinating auxiliary chemistry.”

Researchers estimate that earthquakes generate far less hydrogen than other water-rock interactions within the Earth’s crust. However, their insights imply that active faults may serve as local hotspots for microbial diversity and activity, Sherwood Lollar explained.

Importantly, a complete earthquake isn’t a prerequisite. Similar reactions can take place as rocks fracture in seismically stable areas, like continents or geologically dead planets such as Mars. “Even within these massive rocks, you can observe pressure redistributions and shifts,” she noted.

“It’s truly exciting to explore sources I was recently unfamiliar with,” stated Karen Lloyd from the University of Southern California. The variety of usable chemicals produced in actual fault lines is likely even more diverse. “This likely occurs under varying pressures, temperatures, and across vast spatial scales, involving a broader range of minerals,” she said.

Energy from infrequent events like earthquakes may also illuminate the lifestyles of what Lloyd refers to as aeonophiles—deep subterranean microorganisms thought to have existed for extensive time periods. “If we can endure 10,000 years, we may experience a magnitude 9 earthquake that yields a tremendous energy surge,” Lloyd added.

This research is part of a growing trend over the last two decades that broadens our understanding of where and how organisms can endure underground, states Sherwood Lollar. “The deep rocks of continents have revealed much about the habitability of our planet,” she concluded.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Skull of a Massive Carnivorous Dinosaur Uncovers a “Bone-Crushing” Bite

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of Tyrannosaurus Rex

Roger Harris/Getty Images/Science Photo Library

When examining the colossal dinosaur skull, it becomes evident that some species prefer to shred their prey, while others deliver bone-crushing attacks.

Andre Lowe and Emily Rayfield from the University of Bristol, UK, studied the skulls of 18 Mesozoic theropod species. This varied group, including T. Rex, Giganotosaurus, and Spinosaurus, walked on two legs and was characterized by large heads and razor-sharp teeth.

Nevertheless, despite their similarities, each dinosaur’s feeding behavior cannot be generalized. Eric Snively from Oklahoma State University notes that Giganotosaurus, with its “thin sawtooth teeth” reminiscent of a cross between a great white shark and a Komodo Dragon, was designed for tearing away large chunks of flesh from its prey. In contrast, the semi-aquatic Spinosaurus had a unique anatomy likened to a heron supported by a dachshund body and equipped with teeth similar to those of crocodiles.

Using a 3D scan of the skull’s surface, the researchers explored the bite mechanics of these dinosaurs by employing a method to model bridge stress. By juxtaposing the skull muscle structures of each dinosaur with those of modern relatives like birds and crocodiles, they learned that Giganotosaurus and Spinosaurus had significantly weaker bites compared to the more recent Tyrannosaurus, which utilized a robust, shorter skull to exert substantial “bone-grabbing” force. “Ultimately, Tyrannosaurus showed more emphasis on the skull than we anticipated, thus indicating harder chewing,” Snively remarked.

“The feeding strategies of these apex predators are more intricate than previously thought,” states Fion Waisum Ma from the Beipiao Palace Museum in China. “T-Rex existed during the late Cretaceous period, a time when competition for hunting was intense,” she adds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Achieve Weight Loss with a Highly Processed Food Diet

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Cereal bars and protein bars can either be store-bought or homemade, often containing ultra-processed components.

Drong/Shutterstock

Research suggests that while it’s possible to shed weight consuming highly processed foods, the results may not be as significant as when they are eliminated from the diet.

Foods are categorized as extremely processed when they include ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup or additives meant to enhance flavor and presentation, such as flavoring agents and preservatives.

Numerous studies have connected the consumption of ultra-processed foods to adverse health effects, including cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, and weight gain. However, it’s debated whether the unhealthy aspect is solely due to certain ingredients or if the processing itself is inherently damaging.

To explore this in relation to weight loss, Samuel Dicken from University College London and his team conducted randomized trials, assigning 55 overweight or obese individuals to either an ultra-processed or minimally processed diet.

“People often think of pizza and chips, yet the study incorporated meals from the UK Eatwell Guide, featuring protein sources like beans, fish, and meat, while encouraging a balanced diet with at least five portions of fruits and vegetables. The meals were matched in terms of fats, sugars, salt, and carbohydrates,” explained Dicken.

Participants received the meals, marking the first study to assess these diets under real-world conditions instead of clinical environments. The ultra-processed options included lower-fat and lower-salt items like breakfast cereals, protein bars, chicken sandwiches, and ready-made lasagna. “These are the types of foods that carry health claims in supermarkets,” says Dicken.

Meanwhile, the minimally processed meals encompassed homemade options such as overnight oats, chicken salad, freshly baked bread, and spaghetti bolognese. Both groups were provided around 4,000 calories daily, with the instruction to eat to their satisfaction. Participants switched between the diets after eight weeks, taking a four-week break before transitioning again.

Although the study’s primary aim focused on the health effects of balanced diets prepared in various ways rather than directly targeting weight loss, both diets resulted in weight reductions. The minimally processed diet led to a 2% weight loss, while those on the ultra-processed diet saw a 1% decrease.

“We observed greater weight loss from the minimally processed diets, as well as increased fat loss and a notable reduction in cravings,” stated Dicken.

Further evaluations revealed that minimally processed diets contributed to lower body fat volumes and improved blood markers. Interestingly, participants on the ultra-processed diet exhibited decreased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as “bad” cholesterol.

However, Ciarán Forde from Wageningen University in the Netherlands pointed out that ultra-processed meals are typically more calorie-dense compared to minimally processed alternatives. “Fundamental questions remain regarding which specific treatments or ingredients drive the observed outcomes,” he noted.

Forde also emphasized that the weight loss observed might not be applicable to the general population since participants started as overweight or obese and transitioned to healthier eating habits.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Can I Launch a Spacecraft to Intercept the Interstellar Object 3i/Atlas?

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s Juno spacecraft may be tasked with intercepting interstellar objects

NASA/JPL-Caltech

Interstellar objects passing through our solar system make a brief journey around the sun before heading back into deep space. While astronomers can capture images of comet 3i/Atlas traversing our universe, is there a possibility of intercepting this object?

Researchers globally are investigating several strategies, including repurposing European Space Agency (ESA) missions and rerouting existing NASA endeavors to intervene. However, the task is complicated by the comet’s speed of 60 km/sec and the limited preparation time available.

One notable proposal comes from Avi Loeb at Harvard University, who suggests that the interstellar object “Umuamua is akin to an alien spacecraft; I made a similar assertion regarding 3i/Atlas.” Loeb and his team have published a paper, which, despite not being peer-reviewed, indicates that NASA’s Juno spacecraft could adjust its orbit around Jupiter to rendezvous with 3i/Atlas on March 14th next year.

Nonetheless, this idea faces challenges. Mark Burchell from the University of Kent emphasizes the aging spacecraft’s limitations. Launched in 2011, Juno was initially slated to end its mission with a collision into Jupiter’s surface in 2021, which has been delayed until September this year. It has already experienced two technical issues this year, both resolved by engineers.

“The current orbit allows for closer views of Jupiter and a pass by Io [Jupiter’s moon] in 2023. By 2024, it will be exposed to significant radiation, which is unsurprising given the performance anomalies observed that necessitate a restart,” Burchell explains. “If those modifications are successful and the instruments function properly, there might be valuable data to acquire.”

In a post on X, Jason Wright from Penn State has also voiced skepticism regarding this concept, highlighting that the spacecraft has limited fuel and systematic engine issues.

Another potential avenue to observe 3i/Atlas closely is through the ESA’s Jupiter Ice Moon Explorer (Juice). Luca Conversi from ESA mentions that they are considering this possibility. “We acknowledge this valuable opportunity and are currently assessing the technical feasibility. However, we can’t divulge too much at this stage,” Conversi states.

Despite Juice being closer to 3i/Atlas than Earth, it cannot alter its course towards the comet. “I’m uncertain if redirecting it to a comet is practical. Astrodynamics is far more complex than depicted in science fiction films, and altering a spacecraft’s trajectory is quite challenging,” comments Conversi.

Presently, several spacecraft, including Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and Mars Odyssey, are in orbit around Mars and nearing the end of their operational lifespans. Research conducted by Michigan State University and colleague Atsuhiro Yaginuma suggests that while this method has advantages, it’s unclear whether these spacecraft possess sufficient fuel for such a journey.

The ESA is developing another mission aimed at improving the chances of approaching interstellar objects in the future. The Comet Interceptor spacecraft, scheduled for launch in 2029, is set to await the discovery of comets or interstellar objects that can be targeted at a stable position between Earth and the Sun, facilitating exploration. These missions are rare, as scientists often do not know what the target will be or its appearance timeline.

Colin Snodgrass at the University of Edinburgh, who serves as the deputy lead of the Comet Interceptor, elaborates that this mission would “require a bit of additional maneuverability” to effectively intercept fast-moving objects like 3i/Atlas. For these swift visitors, he suggests a broader mission with a streamlined payload. “If the goal is simple speed, minimize non-essential equipment and prioritize fuel mass,” he advises.

Another future concept involves deploying small satellites in large orbits monthly. “This would distribute them across Earth’s orbit,” Snodgrass explains. “At any time, one of them could return to Earth and leverage gravity to navigate to interesting locations.”

Astrometric endeavors, such as the legacy investigation of space and time, could quickly enhance our understanding of the frequency of these objects entering our solar system, improving prior warnings about their arrival. “When they are moving rapidly, timely notifications can make a significant difference. Instead of providing alerts months ahead of perihelion, having earlier warnings will significantly impact our response,” Snodgrass remarks.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Hidden Superpowers of Hibernating Animals Might Be Within Human DNA

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research conducted by scientists at the University of Utah sheds light on unlocking hibernation abilities, potentially paving the way for treatments that could reverse neurodegeneration and diabetes.

Investigating the evolution of hibernation in certain species like helinates, bats, ground squirrels, and lemurs can unveil the mysteries of their extraordinary resilience. Image credit: Chrissy Richards.

Gene clusters known as fat mass and obesity (FTO) loci are crucial to understanding hibernation capabilities. Interestingly, these genes are also present in humans.

“What stands out in this region is that it represents the most significant genetic risk factor for obesity in humans,” states Professor Chris Greg, the lead author of both studies from the University of Utah.

“Hibernators seem to leverage genes in the FTO locus uniquely.”

Professor Greg and his team discovered DNA regions specific to hibernation factors near the FTO locus that regulate the expression of nearby genes, modulating their activity.

They hypothesize that hibernators can accumulate weight prior to entering winter by adjusting the expression of adjacent genes, particularly those at or near the FTO locus, utilizing fat reserves gradually for winter energy needs.

Moreover, regulatory regions linked to hibernation outside the FTO locus appear to play a significant role in fine-tuning metabolism.

When the research team mutated these hibernation factor-specific regions in mice, they observed variations in body weight and metabolism.

Some mutations accelerated or inhibited weight gain under specific dietary conditions, while others affected the mice’s ability to restore body temperature post-hibernation or regulate their overall metabolic rate.

Interestingly, the hibernator-specific DNA regions identified by researchers are not genes themselves.

Instead, this region comprises a DNA sequence that interacts with nearby genes, modulating their expression like conductors guiding an orchestra to adjust volume levels.

“This indicates that mutating a single hibernator-specific region can influence a broad array of effects well beyond the FTO locus,” notes Dr. Susan Steinwand from the University of Utah. First study.

“Targeting a small, inconspicuous DNA region can alter the activity of hundreds of genes, which is quite unexpected.”

Gaining insight into the metabolic flexibility of hibernators may enhance the treatment of human metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes.

“If we can manipulate more genes related to hibernation, we may find a way to overcome type 2 diabetes similar to how hibernators transition back to normal metabolic states,” says Dr. Elliot Ferris, Ph.D., of the University of Utah. Second survey.

Locating genetic regions associated with hibernation poses a challenge akin to extracting needles from a vast haystack of DNA.

To pinpoint relevant areas, scientists employed various whole-genome technologies to investigate which regions correlate with hibernation.

They then sought overlaps among the outcomes of each method.

Firstly, they searched for DNA sequences common to most mammals that have recently evolved in hibernators.

“This region has remained relatively unchanged among species for over 100 million years; however, if significant alterations occur in two hibernating mammals, it signals critical features for hibernation,” remarked Dr. Ferris.

To comprehend the biological mechanisms of hibernation, researchers tested and identified genes that exhibited fluctuations during fasting in mice, producing metabolic alterations similar to those seen in hibernation.

Subsequently, they identified genes that serve as central regulators or hubs for these fasting-induced gene expressions.

Numerous recently altered DNA regions in hibernators appear to interact with these central hub genes.

Consequently, the researchers predict that the evolution of hibernation necessitates specific modulations in hub gene regulation.

These regulatory mechanisms constitute a potential candidate list of DNA elements for future investigation.

Most alterations related to hibernation factors in the genome seem to disrupt the function of specific DNA rather than impart new capabilities.

This implies that hibernation may have shed constraints, allowing for great flexibility in metabolic control.

In essence, the human metabolic regulator is constrained to a narrow energy expenditure range, whereas, for hibernators, this restriction may not exist.

Hibernation not only reverses neurodegeneration but also prevents muscle atrophy, maintains health amidst significant weight fluctuations, and suggests enhanced aging and longevity.

Researchers surmise that their findings imply if humans can bypass certain metabolic switches, they may already possess a genetic blueprint akin to a hibernation factor superpower.

“Many individuals may already have the genetic structure in place,” stated Dr. Steinwand.

“We must identify the control switches for these hibernation traits.”

“Mastering this process could enable researchers to bestow similar resilience upon humans.”

“Understanding these hibernation-associated genomic mechanisms provides an opportunity to potentially intervene and devise strategies for tackling age-related diseases,” remarks Professor Greg.

“If such mechanisms are embedded within our existing genome, we could learn from hibernation to enhance our health.”

The findings are published in two papers in the journal Science.

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Susan Steinwand et al. 2025. Conserved non-coding CIS elements associated with hibernation regulate metabolism and behavioral adaptation in mice. Science 389 (6759): 501-507; doi: 10.1126/science.adp4701

Elliot Ferris et al. 2025. Genome convergence in hibernating mammals reveals the genetics of metabolic regulation of the hypothalamus. Science 389 (6759): 494-500; doi: 10.1126/science.adp4025

Source: www.sci.news

Understanding Frost Formation on Mars – Sciworthy

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Picture a winter morning where everything glistens in white. The morning frost serves as a testament to Earth’s water cycle, with dew forming from the chilled air overnight. A similar phenomenon occurs on Mars, situated 63 million miles (or 102 million kilometers) away, presenting scientists with a unique opportunity to understand how water behaves on the red planet.

A group of researchers led by Dr. Valantinus from the University of Bern has uncovered evidence suggesting that morning frost may indeed exist on Mars. They identified this potential frost in bowl-shaped formations known as Calderas at the summit of the Tharsis Volcano. Among these volcanoes, Olympus Mons stands out as it towers over Mount Everest—more than double its height—reaching 21 km (approximately 13 miles) above sea level, making it the tallest volcano in the solar system.

Earlier studies estimated that around 1 trillion kilograms (approximately 2.2 trillion pounds) of water vapor cycles through Mars’ atmosphere annually between its northern and southern hemispheres. The massive Tharsis volcano disrupts this water flow due to its significant elevation, creating areas with lower pressure and wind speed referred to as Microclimates. The Valantinus team concentrated on this region, which produces optimal conditions for frost development in the microclimate above the volcano, increasing the likelihood of water vapor condensing to form frost.

To search for potential frost, the team analyzed thousands of spectral images captured by a color and stereo surface imaging system called Cassis, part of the European Space Agency’s Trace Gas Orbiter satellite orbiting Mars. They noted that the bright bluish tint in the area might indicate frost. By focusing on images with cooler tones, they set out to gather more evidence supporting the presence of frost.

To accomplish this, the team utilized a tool capable of detecting the composition of materials based on light wavelengths, known as a Spectrometer. A spectrometer onboard the Trace Gas Orbiter, named NOMAD, yielded ice readings concurrent with Cassis images. By combining Cassis imagery with NOMAD spectrometer data and additional high-resolution stereo camera images, the researchers pinpointed frosts in 13 distinct locations related to Mars’ volcanoes.

The Valantinus team anticipated that observations would reveal frost, but they needed to identify its type. Mars possesses a carbon dioxide atmosphere, which means carbon dioxide frost can naturally appear on the planet’s surface. To differentiate between carbon dioxide and water frost, researchers analyzed the surface temperatures on Mars.

They noted that the temperature at which carbon dioxide frost forms on Mars is around -130°C (-200°F), resulting in the conversion of solid carbon dioxide to gas as temperatures rise. Conversely, water frost appears at about -90°C (-140°F). Using a general circulation model, the team estimated that the average surface temperature in the areas where frost was discovered is roughly -110°C (-170°F), a temperature too warm for carbon dioxide frost but sufficiently cool for water frost.

Observations revealed frost deposits along the floors and edges of the volcanic calderas, while bright, warm areas inside the caldera lacked these deposits. The team also observed that some frost partially rested on dust-like particles on the ground, which cool down more at night and warm gradually in the morning, providing an ideal surface for frost. Additionally, frost was only evident during the early mornings on Mars, likely due to the daily warming cycle of the planet’s surface, similar to Earth.

The Valantinus team utilized imaging and chemical measurements on Mars to track the exchange of water between the planet’s surface and atmosphere. They recommend that future researchers continue to monitor Cassis images in these regions to deepen understanding of how morning frosts develop on Mars.

For alternative perspectives on this article, please see summary by Paige Lebman, a University of Delaware student.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Five Years Later: How Have the Developers of the Sci-Fi Cult Classic Evolved?

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Forest (Nick Offerman) is the CEO of Quantum Computing Firm Amaya

Album/Alamy

Developer
Alex Garland
FX Hulu, Disney+

March 2020 was an awkward period for many. This might explain why Developer, an eight-part sci-fi series by Alex Garland, premiered during a global lockdown and struggled to garner a wide audience; I, too, unfortunately, missed it.

There are various reasons I decided to catch up on it now: Garland’s works had lingered in my mind after enjoying 28 Days Later, and the darkly captivating worlds of Developer felt like a welcome escape from the heatwave. However, mainly, I was curious about how it had aged five years after its debut.

In Developer, Lily Chan (Sonoya Mizuno) works as an engineer for Amaya, a quantum computing firm based in San Francisco. Each day, she collaborates with her boyfriend and colleague Sergei (Karl Glassman), who is involved in Amaya’s AI division. After being invited to join the secretive Devs program, Sergei disappears nearly immediately, leaving Lily convinced that Amaya and the enigmatic Devs project played a role in his vanishing.

Everything in Developer feels cold yet beautiful. The score and sound design are haunting, punctuated by jolts of static and dialogue. The performances reflect this chill, particularly Mizuno’s compelling portrayal of Lily. Meanwhile, Allison Pill shines as Katie, a scientist at Amaya. The company’s campus is an ethereal setting of glass and refined concrete enveloped by pine trees and illuminated by glowing halos, all under the watchful gaze of a towering young girl statue.

The Devs compound feels like entering a Byzantine mosaic, transformed into a secular, three-dimensional space.

Yet, the stunning DEVS compound overshadows everything else; it feels like stepping into a Byzantine mosaic, now rendered secular and three-dimensional. This space serves as a meticulously organized sanctuary for clandestine research, immersed in lavish gold while floating within an electromagnetic field inside a Faraday cage.

The nature of this research prompts a profound shift that delves deep into human impulses, despite the risks of redefining humanity itself. Forest posits that the project is fundamentally tied to all that is valuable. It boldly explores the extent of incredible technological advancements that might arise—or be stunted—due to the personal philosophies of privileged figures like himself.

Watching Developer at its peak feels akin to being enveloped in a soothing sound bath, the slow reverberations drawing you in. At its least inspired, it can seem self-indulgent. Still, it offers an intellectual experience, addressing fascinating concepts such as the multiverse. However, Lily’s pursuit to unravel the truth about Sergei gets sidelined in favor of Amaya’s overarching mysteries, causing the series to spiral into self-importance.

In a twist of life’s quirks (light spoilers ahead), the show’s most insightful theme might revolve around the desire to revisit the past and what we gain or lose along the way. Interestingly, such reflections may prove more compelling than lofty visions about our technological future. I’m glad I finally watched Developer five years post-release; despite some indulgent tendencies, it left me with plenty to appreciate. Even if Forest and his counterparts might not find full success, Developer still resonates deeply with me.

I also recommend…

Ex Machina
Alex Garland

In Garland’s directorial debut, programmer Caleb (Domhnall Gleeson) is tasked by his boss with evaluating whether Ava, an artificial intelligence, possesses true sentience. The film delivers a chilling psychological exploration.

Never Let Me Go
Mark Romanek

This adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel features a rare boarding school depicted through a haunting lens; it’s flawed yet captivating and definitely worth the watch.

Bethan Ackerley is a sub-editor at New Scientist, with a passion for science fiction, sitcoms, and the eerie. Follow her on Twitter at @inkerley

The Arts and Science of Writing Science Fiction

Dive into the world of science fiction writing this weekend, exploring the art of building new worlds and narratives.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Boost Your Mathematical Creativity with This String Art Game

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Like any other mathematical concept, this idea is open to exploration.”

Peter Rowlett

As a child, Mary Everest Boole discovered several cards adorned with evenly spaced holes along the edges. By tightening threads from each hole to its opposite, she created a line that gracefully crossed the center. This exercise allowed her to form a symmetrical curve and fostered her intuition for formal geometry.

A few years later, in 1864, she found herself a widow with five children. Despite the academic establishment’s disregard for women’s contributions, she persevered as a librarian and math tutor in London.

Boole believed that engaging children with mathematical objects, like her curve stitching activities, could deepen their understanding. She connected mathematical imagination and creativity in various ways, using fables and history to elucidate logic and algebra.

Now you can explore by creating a “string art” image inspired by her work. Begin with a pair of horizontal and vertical axes, each 10 cm long and marked with numbers 1-10 spaced 1 cm apart. Create a straight line from point 1 on the horizontal axis to point 10 on the vertical axis. Continue connecting points 2 to 9, 3 to 8, and so forth. While all lines are straight, the intersections will form curves.

You may have used drawing software to control the path’s shape via two endpoints. These represent Bezier curves, crucial in computer-aided design, reminiscent of Boole’s early stitching curves fixed to the axes and their intersection points.

With practice, you should be able to draw lines without numbering them—experiment with different colors as well. She recommended it as a stitching exercise rather than a drawing, which can also be approached using threads. Simply substitute the dots with holes.

Like other mathematical concepts, this idea invites exploration. For instance, alter the axes to meet at varying angles, or examine what occurs when the distances between dots differ, such as 1 cm for one line and 2 cm for another.

Consider drawing a circle or another shape, distributing dots evenly around it, then systematically connecting them. For example, connect all dots in a clockwise fashion for ten dots. You can even recreate the boat-like image shown above (center, right). What else can you create?

For more creative projects, visit newscientist.com/maker

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Universal Detectors Identify AI Deepfake Videos with Unprecedented Accuracy

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Deepfake video showcasing Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on a smartphone

Australia’s Associated Press/Alamy

Universal DeepFake Detectors have demonstrated optimal accuracy in identifying various types of videos that have been altered or entirely produced by AI. This technology can assist in flagging adult content, deepfake scams, or misleading political videos generated by unregulated AI.

The rise of accessible DeepFake Creation Tools powered by inexpensive AI has led to rampant online distribution of synthetic videos. Numerous instances involve non-consensual depictions of women, including celebrities and students. Additionally, deepfakes are utilized to sway political elections and escalate financial scams targeting everyday consumers and corporate leaders.

Nevertheless, most AI models designed to spot synthetic videos primarily focus on facial recognition. This means they excel in identifying a specific type of deepfake where a person’s face is swapped with existing footage. “We need a single video with a manipulated face and a model capable of detecting background alterations or entirely synthetic videos,” states Rohit Kundu from the University of California Riverside. “Our approach tackles that particular issue, considering the entire video could be entirely synthetically produced.”

Kundu and his team have developed a universal detector that leverages AI to analyze both facial features and various background elements within the video. It can detect subtle signs of spatial and temporal inconsistencies in deepfake content. Consequently, it identifies irregular lighting conditions for people inserted into face-swapped videos, as well as discrepancies in background details of fully AI-generated videos. The detector can even recognize AI manipulation in synthetic videos devoid of human faces, and it flags realistic scenes in video games like Grand Theft Auto V, independent of AI generation.

“Most traditional methods focus on AI-generated facial videos, such as face swaps and lip-synced content.” says Siwei Lyu from Buffalo University in New York. “This new method is broader in its applications.”

The universal detector reached an impressive accuracy rate of 95% to 99% in recognizing four sets of test videos featuring manipulated faces. This performance surpasses all previously published methods for detecting this type of deepfake. In evaluations of fully synthetic videos, it yielded more precise results than any other detectors assessed to date. Researcher I presented their findings at the 2025 IEEE Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 15th.

Several researchers from Google also contributed to the development of these new detectors. Though Google has not responded to inquiries regarding whether this detection method would be beneficial for identifying deepfakes on platforms like YouTube, the company is among those advocating for watermarking tools that help label AI-generated content.

The universal detectors have room for future enhancements. For instance, it would be advantageous to develop capabilities for detecting deepfakes utilized during live video conference calls—a tactic some scammers are now employing.

“How can you tell if the individual on the other end is genuine or a deepfake-generated video, even with network factors like bandwidth affecting the transmission?” asks Amit Roy-Chowdhury from the University of California Riverside. “This is a different area we’re exploring in our lab.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Lancet Highlights Plastic Crisis Ahead of Global Plastics Treaty

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent report from prominent medical journals highlights that the worldwide “plastic crisis” incurs a staggering cost of $1.5 trillion annually for governments and taxpayers.

By 2060, plastic production is projected to triple, with less than 10% being recycled. Currently, approximately 8,000 megatons of plastic are contaminating the planet. Recent research reviews published on Sunday by the Lancet.

This issue inflicts damage at every phase, from fossil fuel extraction and production to human consumption and eventual environmental disposal, according to the British publication.

“Plastics pose a significant, escalating, and often overlooked threat to both human and environmental health.” “They contribute to illness and mortality from infancy to old age, exacerbating climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.”

He also noted that these adverse effects “disproportionately impact low-income and vulnerable populations.”

In June, boaters collected recyclable plastic from the heavily polluted Sitaram River in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia.
Timur Matahari/AFP via Getty Images

This serves as the latest alarming message from experts regarding the widespread dangers posed by plastics, which the Journal deems “the material for our age.” After years of warnings about their presence in oceans and rivers, microplastics have now been discovered in humans, including in breast milk and brain tissue.

Sunday’s announcement initiated a new monitoring system called the “Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics.”

This was introduced alongside the concluding speeches in Geneva, Switzerland, where representatives from 175 countries are seeking to establish the first global treaty on plastics.

Activists are hopeful that the discussions taking place from Tuesday through August 14th will set key objectives for reducing plastic production. Some nations, including China, Russia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, have previously resisted these initiatives and advocated for increased plastic recycling.

According to the Lancet, major petrochemical companies are “key players” in the escalating production of plastics as they shift their focus towards plastics in light of dwindling fossil energy demand.

Various plastics, often derived from food and beverage containers and packaging, contain up to 16,000 different chemicals, which “enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption,” the study states.

Pregnant women, infants, and young children are “especially vulnerable,” facing risks such as miscarriage, physical deformities, cognitive impairment, and diabetes. In adults, the risks include cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer.

“Given the substantial gaps in our understanding of plastic chemicals, it is likely that the health threats they pose are undervalued, and the disease burden resulting from them is currently underestimated,” he added.

The Lancet cited a study that estimated the global financial burden of these illnesses to be $1.5 trillion.

“It is now evident that the world cannot escape the plastic pollution crisis,” stated the Lancet. “Addressing this crisis requires continuous research, involving science-backed interventions: legislation, policy, monitoring, enforcement, incentives, and innovation.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Why Food Noise, Not Willpower, Holds the Secret to Weight Loss

Posted on August 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Among the countless enigmas of science, I find myself intrigued by the enticing toffee tucked away in the kitchen cupboard. It has me completely captivated—almost like I’m being swept into some metaphysical currents.

The pressing question is: how? How do chocolate bars diminish my willpower when I thought I was a seasoned adult who should know better?

The solution may be linked to the concept of “food noise.” This pervasive and disruptive phenomenon relates to the relationship between food and our perceptions of it.

In the case of my beloved toffee crunch, these fleeting thoughts are mere distractions that I inevitably give in to within an hour.

Food noise can be a serious issue

For some individuals, food noise is a substantial concern. Hayashi Daimon, a doctoral researcher at Penn State University, explains.

He notes that when the volume increases, food noise becomes a source of “a constant obsession that undermines an individual’s well-being and complicates healthy choices.”

Although research on food noise is sparse, in 2023, Hayashi and his colleagues published a paper aiming to connect established knowledge about food cues and anecdotal insights into food noise. Their team is actively pursuing further research.

“I believe that research on food noise is at a point where asking the right questions and seeking empirical data is more crucial than making presumptions,” Yayashi highlights.

“From our preliminary findings, I can tell you that most social media accounts describe food noise as a source of distress, with people indicating they would rather avoid it.”

read more:

Individuals respond variably to food cues

Hayashi asserts that food noise is characterized by an ongoing, heightened reaction to food signals—ranging from social media advertisements to the aroma of someone’s dish, and the internal mechanisms that regulate appetite hormones.

While these cues serve to nourish us, some individuals exhibit quicker responses.

“A combination of personal attributes such as genetics, lifestyle, and stress can lead to heightened sensitivity to food noise, particularly as we are frequently subjected to strong external food signals.”

An intriguing study has emerged from research on GLP-1 agonists, a category of weight loss medications including Ozempic.

“Anécdotal evidence suggests that many individuals use the term ‘food noise’ to describe obsessive behaviors regarding food prior to starting such treatments,” says Hayashi.

“My hypothesis is that one of the impacts of these medications, which might clarify their efficacy in obesity treatment, is that they diminish the responsiveness to food cues and lessen susceptibility to food noise.”

Further research will address this inquiry and determine the extent of food noise’s impact on others.

Certain foods are rich in brain dopamine reactions termed “Bliss Points,” particularly those high in sugar, fat, and salt, like chocolate digestives – Credit: Peter Dazelly via Getty

What actions can we take regarding food noise now?

If you’re searching for approaches to manage intrusive thoughts about food (or intense cravings for forbidden toffee), Hayashi suggests consulting a nutritionist. They can assist in examining your dietary habits and devising strategies to enhance resistance to food cues.

These strategies may encompass mindful eating practices or ensuring sufficient meal consumption to avoid the discomfort of hunger at mealtimes.

Crucially, avoid falling into the trap of guilt surrounding the notion that struggling with food represents personal failure.

“We exist in a paradoxical society where cultural messages incessantly promote thinness and muscularity, while simultaneously compelling us to engage with external food cues that lead to poor dietary choices,” he explains.

“This creates an ideal scenario for suffering from food noise, compounded by a social structure that makes access to healthier options more challenging than opting for convenient, highly processed foods lacking in nutritional value.”

About our experts

Hayashi Daimon is a doctoral researcher at Penn State University in the United States. His work has been featured in Nutrients, Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, and Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Essential Information for Those Taking Statins to Manage Cholesterol Levels

Posted on August 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Statin usage is on the rise, with the National Institute of Excellence in Health and Care (Nice) reporting that in October 2024, around 5.3 million people in the UK were using statins or cholesterol-lowering medications in the previous year.

This figure has nearly tripled since 2015/2016, now reflecting almost 10% of the nation’s population. Likewise, statin usage is also increasing worldwide.

Doctors prescribe statins primarily to prevent heart disease, the leading cause of death globally. These medications lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—the “bad” cholesterol that contributes to artery clogging—by aiding the liver in cholesterol production and blood extraction.

While statins effectively prevent heart attacks and strokes, there are still questions individuals have before commencing treatment.

Consider inquiries like: If my cholesterol is high, should I take statins? Could I improve my condition through diet and exercise first? What side effects might I experience when I start taking statins?

The answers to the first two questions are ultimately the same: the decision rests with you.

How to Determine if Statins are Right for You

The choice to begin statin therapy should be made alongside a healthcare provider, considering not just cholesterol levels, but the overall risk of heart disease.

This involves evaluating other risk factors such as blood pressure, family history, and even geographic location.

As Julie Ward, a senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, explains, your physician will use all available information to calculate your individual cardiovascular risk score.

“Once we have that cardiovascular risk score, we can initiate a discussion on measures to reduce that risk,” Ward states. “It’s about individuals [doctors] or pharmacists communicating, ‘This is your cardiovascular risk. We recommend starting you on a statin.’

The initial conversation may focus on lifestyle modifications, such as healthier eating habits and smoking cessation. You can assess your risk with an online calculator like this one. A higher 10-year risk score indicates a greater likelihood of needing to discuss statin therapy.

After a few months, you may visit the calculator again to see if your risk has changed, and perhaps determine that your risk is low enough to pursue dietary changes and exercise instead. But what if the recommendation for statins remains strong?

Statins are Safe and Effective

It’s natural to feel apprehensive about starting a potentially lifelong medication.

However, scientific research may provide reassurance; ample evidence highlights the effectiveness of statins in preventing heart disease, says Professor James Shepherd, a Health Data Scientist at the University of Oxford.

“Statins are arguably the most studied medication in medical history,” he points out. “Numerous clinical trials have examined their effects.”

Additionally, researchers have compiled the results of numerous trials to bolster the evidence surrounding statins.

Cholesterol accumulates in veins, obstructing blood flow – Image credit: Getty Images

For instance, in 2015, researchers from Cochrane, a distinguished medical review publisher, synthesized data from nearly 39,000 individuals who participated in 296 trials assessing Atorvastatin, the most commonly prescribed statin.

Their comprehensive review revealed that taking atorvastatin for up to 12 weeks reduced LDL cholesterol by 37-52%, depending on the dosage.

What’s the impact of statins on the risk of death from heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues? The answer largely depends on individual circumstances.

A recent review from early 2025 indicated a risk reduction ranging from 20% to 62%, with higher percentages for individuals in high-risk groups. This represents significant savings for medications costing less than £2 (around $2.50) per 28 tablets.

However, it’s essential to understand how to interpret numbers for your own decision-making.

In large-scale trials, efficacy is often expressed in relative terms, indicating the difference compared to those not taking statins.

As Shepherd emphasizes, “For real-world treatment decisions, the absolute risk is what matters most.”

For example, if a statin reduces the risk of a heart attack by 20%, a patient with a 1% absolute risk (or cardiovascular risk score) sees their risk drop from 1% to 0.8%.

In contrast, those with risk scores above 10% can realize significantly greater benefits.

read more:

Side Effects Vary

While we know statins are effective, what about the negative aspects related to side effects?

“Previous reporting has skewed public perception,” reveals Ward. “Yet, research demonstrates that side effects are minimal, and statins are well-tolerated by most patients.”

This is supported by findings from Shepherd and his team, detailed in a 2021 study that reviewed side effects across 62 trials involving over 120,000 participants, revealing only “a small number” reported issues.

Approximately 15 out of every 10,000 individuals experienced muscle pain and related symptoms, while liver, kidney, and eye abnormalities were even less prevalent.

When patients discontinue statin use, it is often linked to side effects. So, what’s behind this?

A different 2021 study suggests that the perceived side effects may be associated with the act of taking medication rather than their actual occurrence.

In that research, 60 participants received a month’s supply of different medications—some statins, some placebos—without knowing which was which. A year later, researchers noted more symptoms as patients were taking medication compared to nothing at all, with 90% of those experiencing side effects from statins also reporting symptoms while on the placebo.

Adjusting Dosage or Medication

If you encounter side effects, it’s essential to communicate these with your doctor instead of just enduring them.

For instance, atorvastatin can be prescribed in doses ranging from 10 to 80 mg per day. Side effects are often dose-dependent; hence, 80 mg is more likely to induce issues than 10 mg, though a lower long-term dose is usually possible.

“If someone has high cholesterol, they may start at 80 mg,” explains Ward. “If they’re managing well in a few months, we might lower it to 40 mg, and potentially down to 20 or 10 mg later on, transitioning to a maintenance dose.”

Alternatively, switching medications can also be effective. In the UK, five different statins are available, all functioning similarly, though atorvastatin is often regarded as the most effective.

“If someone previously took a higher dose of a different statin, a doctor could prescribe atorvastatin at a lower dosage that could achieve similar cholesterol-lowering effects with fewer side effects,” Shepherd adds.

In rare cases, taking statins may lead to more serious issues affecting the liver and kidneys, which is why regular blood tests are crucial for monitoring.

Individuals with diabetes might be concerned regarding findings suggesting that statins can elevate blood sugar levels.

Nevertheless, the cholesterol-lowering benefits are believed to outweigh the minimal increases in blood glucose.

In conclusion, taking statins is a personal choice. If you have concerns, consider discussing them with a cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation or explore resources on cholesterol at Heart UK.

About Our Experts

Julie Ward is a senior heart nurse at the British Heart Foundation.

Professor James Shepherd is a health data scientist at the University of Oxford, focusing on cardiovascular disease prevention. His work has been featured in General UK magazines, BMC Medical Research Methodology, and BMJ Open.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Tired, Hungry, and Clumsy? It Might Be Time to Revamp Your Sleep Routine!

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Lack of sleep is a widespread issue, often leading to a bad mood the following day and leaving you feeling somewhat awkward.

The NHS recommends that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel refreshed and alert. Persistent sleep deprivation can result in severe health issues such as high blood pressure, depression, and obesity. Even just one or two nights of poor sleep can significantly impact your mood and performance.

What occurs in your brain while you sleep? And why do just a few hours less than your usual sleep amount have such a detrimental effect?

Is your brain “awake” while you sleep?

While you sleep, your brain conducts several crucial processes to help reset your body’s organs and systems.

It eliminates toxins and metabolic waste through the glymphatic system and organizes long-term memories in the neocortex.

Neural connections are reinforced, and activity in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex aids in regulating emotional responses for the following day. REM sleep is vital for problem-solving and emotional processing, while hormonal regulation during sleep promotes stress recovery and appetite balance.

Consequences of sleep deprivation

In our fast-paced world, achieving sufficient sleep can be challenging. With constant demands on our time, even short-term fatigue can set the stage for a tough day, making it important to understand the significance of sleep.

Common symptoms of sleep deprivation include:

• Impaired cognition and reduced concentration
• Decreased emotional resilience
• Weakened immune response
• Impaired exercise adaptation
• Increased appetite due to hormonal imbalances
• Elevated cortisol levels
• Disruption of insulin sensitivity

While it’s advisable for adults to target 7-9 hours of sleep each night, how can you ensure you get enough rest to stay alert and healthy?

Tips for Improved Sleep Quality

Silentnight has dedicated 80 years to exploring the science of quality sleep. In partnership with Central Lancashire University, the sleep brand gathers sleep biomechanics data to develop a variety of sleeper-type products.

We reached out to Silentnight for suggestions on fostering healthy sleep habits.

Maintain a Consistent Routine

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates your body’s circadian rhythm, particularly the sleep/wake cycle. It signals that it’s time for sleep, prompting a drop in body temperature and reduced alertness. Consistency is key in maintaining melatonin levels, so keep your schedule regular.

Establish a Relaxing Pre-Sleep Ritual

Cortisol levels naturally decrease at night, which is essential for sleep since high levels can disrupt melatonin production. Engage in calming activities—baths, reading, or listening to soothing music—but avoid blue light from screens as it can hinder melatonin release.

Keep your Sleep Environment Cool

The ideal room temperature for sleep is typically between 15.5°C and 21°C. Even slightly exceeding this range can negatively affect the quality and duration of your sleep.

Choose the Right Mattress

Silentnight states, “Pressure points and overheating can disrupt sleep.” They offer a range of mattresses with varying spring systems and materials to accommodate different sleeping styles.

Discover more about Silentnight products and find a mattress tailored to your sleeping needs here.

Learn more

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Lethal Fungus Linked to Tutankhamun’s “Curse” May Now Hold Life-Saving Potential

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The fungus that has long been linked to the death of the archaeologist who uncovered King Tutankhamun’s tomb may now have a role in saving lives. Researchers have utilized the toxic bacteria Aspergillus flavus—often associated with the so-called “Pharaoh’s Curse”—to develop a potent new compound capable of killing cancer cells.

A study published in Natural Chemistry Biology revealed that the fungus produced previously unknown molecules, which the research team subsequently corrected and tested against human leukemia cells.

Two compounds known as asperigycin exhibited strong anti-cancer activity. After correction, one variant, along with two FDA-approved drugs, was effective in eliminating cancer cells.

“We know that fungi have significant potential to generate bioactive molecules,” stated senior author Professor Sherry Gao in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “However, only a small fraction of these possible molecules has been discovered.”

A. flavus carries a grim legacy. Following the opening of King Tut’s tomb in the 1920s, a wave of fatalities fueled the myth of the Pharaoh’s curse. Subsequent investigations indicated that spores of A. flavus, sealed within the tomb for millennia, could have triggered deadly pulmonary infections.

A similar incident occurred in the 1970s, where 10 out of 12 scientists who entered the tomb of a Polish king died shortly after exposure to the fungus.

Samples of Aspergillus flavus cultured in GAO labs. – Credit: Veracielbo

Now, the same lethal fungus may catalyze a medical advancement. The research team discovered that A. flavus produces a type of molecule called RIPP, short for ribosome-synthesized post-translationally modified peptides.

These molecules are known for their intricate structure and significant biological effects, yet few have been identified from fungi.

The team isolated four peptides featuring a distinctive ring-shaped structure. When tested on cancer cells, two were particularly effective against leukemia. The third, artificially modified with a fatty molecule known as a “lipid chain,” exhibited effects similar to conventional chemotherapeutics like cytarabine and donorubicin.

“After modification, the compounds were better at entering the cell,” Gao explained. “I believe that once inside, there is a mechanism to inhibit cell division.”

GAO noted that further research is essential to understand how RIPPS target cancer cells and why they are effective against leukemia but not other tested cancer types.

According to GAO, the team aims to develop a platform to identify more potentially beneficial products derived from fungi.

“Nature has gifted us this incredible pharmacy,” Gao remarked in a statement. “It is up to us to uncover that secret.”

Read more:

About our experts

Xue (Sherry) Gao serves as an Associate Professor of President Pen Compact at the University of Pennsylvania. Her laboratory is focused on developing highly specific and effective genome editing tools for diverse applications in disease treatment, diagnosis, and the exploration of new small molecule drugs.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Transform Your Body in a 4-Day Work Week: Here’s How!

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

If you find yourself at your desk, feeling a bit fatigued and pondering where the weekend went, the thought of a four-day workweek might sound incredibly appealing. Just think about all you could accomplish with an extra day! You could finally tackle those odd tasks, enjoy some fresh air, or simply catch up on sleep.

This notion has circulated for years, but now the evidence is mounting. By trimming the workweek by just one day, you can reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, boost physical activity, and even improve productivity.

This concept is shaping a global movement toward rethinking the modern workweek, backed by trials occurring in Europe, North America, and other regions.

A recent study conducted by researchers from Boston College and University College Dublin tracked approximately 3,000 employees across 141 organizations in six English-speaking countries. For six months, these participants worked up to eight hours less per week, without any reduction in pay.

The results published in Natural Human Behavior were quite impressive. Employees reported enhanced mental and physical health, fewer sleep disturbances, and lower fatigue levels. Most companies found sufficient value in the results to continue with the new arrangements post-trial.

“We are observing global trends where workers experience burnout, extended hours, and minimal time for personal and family matters—not just in high-income nations but across many low and middle-income countries,” noted Wenfang, the study’s author and associate professor of sociology at Boston University, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

“A four-day workweek offers a potential avenue for employees to rethink and restructure their work arrangements for better benefit.”

Hard Data

While many studies rely on employee surveys, recent research in Germany led by Professor Julia Bachmann aims to gather more concrete data. Her team monitored stress, activity levels, and sleep using Garmin fitness trackers worn by both participants in the four-day workweek and those maintaining full-time schedules.

The findings revealed that those in the four-day workweek group experienced significantly lower stress levels, as indicated by heart rate variability.

“The four-day workweek group showed significantly less stress on most days,” said Bachmann to BBC Science Focus. “Interestingly, even on weekends, they did not reach the stress levels of the control group.”

Interestingly, Saturday turned out to be the most stressful day, likely due to errands and family responsibilities, while Sunday was the least stressful. Participants also increased their walking, exercise, and gained an extra 38 minutes of sleep per week.

“They are more active, engaging in more sports. Their stress levels are lower, and they’re sleeping a bit more during the week,” Bachmann noted.

According to Bachmann, the early indicators point in a favorable direction; however, the data on sleep quality is still being analyzed.

Crucially, these physiological findings aligned with the self-reported data from participants. This is significant given the long-standing concerns about bias in self-reported data in other studies on the four-day workweek. “This is typically the main criticism,” Bachmann stated. “But now we have objective data that supports these self-reported outcomes.”

As part of the same study, researchers also gathered hair samples to analyze cortisol levels, a hormone linked to chronic stress. The results are pending, but Bachmann is hopeful they will be available later this year. If consistent with other findings, these results could provide further independent evidence of the health benefits of a four-day workweek.

The trial included 41 organizations across Germany, spanning from IT firms to healthcare providers. Not every employee transitioned to a four-day schedule within each company, as some departments within large corporations maintained full-time hours. Most who switched reduced their work hours without extending their workdays. Reports indicated that monthly overtime also decreased.

Fortunately, for any CEOs reading this, no significant revenue changes were noted during the four-day workweek, and both employee productivity and work intensity improved.

Importantly, this model gained widespread popularity: 73% of organizations expressed plans to continue with the four-day workweek in some capacity, and 82% of workers hoped to maintain it.

Fitness trackers were used to capture hard data on how four days of the week can improve your health – Credit: Getty Images

The Future of Work

So, is the Monday to Friday grind truly sustainable? According to Professor Cal Newport, a Georgetown University computer science professor trained at MIT and author of Deep Work, it’s not that straightforward. He agrees that a shortened week may offer some relief; however, he believes it lacks proper progression. “One of the key contributors to burnout among knowledge workers is overload,” he noted in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “Individuals juggle numerous projects, tasks, and obligations simultaneously.”

In other words, the focus should not solely be on how long we work, but also on the expectations attached to that work. “Transitioning to a four-day week only indirectly addresses this issue,” he asserted. “There’s anecdotal evidence suggesting that reducing workloads might lessen them somewhat. These new constraints can help people feel comfortable saying ‘no,’ making the most effective approach to managing workloads direct.”

Bachmann’s team is currently planning to streamline the four-day workweek concept further to explore how employees compress their tasks into four days compared to genuine reductions in total working hours.

Overall, the outlook for a four-day workweek is positive. Studies around the globe are converging on similar conclusions. Hopefully, a shorter workweek can enhance health and well-being without compromising performance.

However, as Newport emphasizes, the hours we work may matter less than the expectations we set. If a four-day week becomes a reality, it may require reevaluating our workloads rather than just adjusting our calendars.

Read more:

About Our Experts

Wenfang He is an associate professor in the Sociology department at Boston University, USA. His research has appeared in journals like Natural Human Behavior, Social Forces, Jobs and Occupations, and Advances in Life Course Research.

Julia Buckmann is the chair for co-direction at the Centre for Work Transformation and Business Transformation at the University of Münster in Germany. Before this role, she served as an assistant professor at the University of Dublin and LMU Munich. Having received several international awards, Julia is focused on the impact of social and technological change on (collaborative) work, leadership, and innovation.

Cal Newport is a computer science professor trained at MIT and teaching at Georgetown University in the United States. He writes extensively about technology, work, and the pursuit of depth in an increasingly distracting world. His publications include eight books such as Lower Productivity, Email-Free World, Digital Minimalism, and Deep Work.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Introducing the Smart Pill: Enabling Doctors to Examine and Treat Your Intestines Internally.

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Emerging technologies enable doctors to leverage microorganisms for diagnosing and treating diseases through gut microbiota. Recent studies highlight these advancements.

Researchers successfully used smartphone apps to genetically alter bacteria, causing them to emit light signals in response.

If proven safe and effective in humans, this treatment could address several illnesses that are currently challenging to manage.

This method encompassed three key elements: bacteria, technology, and pigs. Under the guidance of senior author Hanzi Wang from Tianjin University in China, scientists modified E. coli bacteria to react to specific chemical and optical stimuli.

They created swallowable capsules controlled via Bluetooth that communicate with these photoresponsive bacteria, targeting pigs afflicted with colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease that results in intestinal swelling.

The experiment has commenced, allowing scientists to introduce engineered E. coli into the inflamed intestines of pigs through these capsules.

Nitrates, which the body produces during intestinal inflammation, serve as indicators of active colitis. When the modified E. coli come into contact with nitrates, they illuminate.

These smart capsules can detect the optical signal, alerting researchers to the presence of E. coli via Bluetooth.

Through a smartphone app, researchers can command the capsule to start emitting light signals, prompting the E. coli to release anti-inflammatory antibodies to combat colitis.

This innovative approach enables scientists to effectively communicate with the bacteria, ensuring targeted treatment delivery.

Three pigs were infected with colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease with few treatment options currently available – Credit: Connect images via Getty

“This represents a remarkable technological advancement,” stated Dr. Lindsey Edwards, a senior lecturer in Microbiology at King’s College London, as reported by BBC Science Focus. Dr. Edwards was not involved in the research.

“Methods like this enable precise, real-time interactions with gut bacteria and have the potential to revolutionize treatment,” she added.

“There is an urgent need for new tools that allow us to harness the full potential of our microbiota to enhance health and better understand and manage microbial infections.”

At present, colitis has no existing treatments, and options are scarce. Dr. Edwards believes that such future methods could “open new pathways” for treating not only inflammatory bowel disease but also other gut-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and chronic fatigue.

However, Dr. Alexandre Almeida, from the Department of Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge University and not part of this research, warns that this possibility is still distant.

“This is still a preliminary proof-of-concept study,” he noted. “The technology has only been tested in animals and specifically for detecting certain conditions.”

“Before human applications, we must evaluate the safety of this technology and address significant questions, such as how these engineered microorganisms influence the natural balance of other gut bacteria.”

Dr. Nicholas Ilott, a senior researcher at the Oxford Microbiome Research Center who did not participate in the study, stated that the technology is “incredibly exciting” and could prove to be “very valuable” in future medical treatments.

Read more:

About our experts

Dr. Lindsey Edwards is a senior lecturer in microbiology at King’s College London, UK. Her research focuses on mucosal barrier immunology, host-microbe interactions, and the priming of adaptive immune responses, along with intestinal and liver diseases.

Dr. Alexandre Almeida is a Principal Investigator and MRC Career Development Fellow at the University of Cambridge, UK, specializing in bioinformatics and genomic approaches for biological discoveries related to human health.

Dr. Nicholas Ilott is a senior researcher specializing in bioinformatics at the Microbiome Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Oxford University, UK, concentrating on host-microbe interactions in chronic liver and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is the Bee Crisis Really a Hoax?

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 1998, as I began my journey into the world of bees, it didn’t take long for me to develop a passion for them. However, I quickly observed that most people’s understanding was limited to simple facts like “bees make honey” and “they live in hives.”

While beeswax and queen bees received occasional mention, the general enthusiasm for these remarkable insects was mostly grounded in superficial knowledge and cultural associations.

Fast forward a decade, and I noticed a shift. The importance of pollination began to gain recognition, and honeybees were suddenly seen as crucial to food production.

Then, in 2007, disaster struck. Reports of a mysterious and dramatic decline in bee populations, particularly in the United States, started making headlines globally.

Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) became a sensational topic, capturing media attention and sparking fears of a world devoid of bees. This concern even made its way into the long-running BBC series Doctor Who, showcasing just how dire the situation appeared.

Here we are, two decades later, and once again, headlines shout about the plight of bees. “Millions of bees are dying—so why does it matter?” asked the UK’s Independent, reporting that U.S. beekeepers lost 60-70% of their colonies this year and 55% last year.

Top beekeepers now warn of a “death spiral,” according to The Guardian, and funding cuts from the Trump administration have only heightened concerns.

However, much of the panic surrounding this issue is unfounded. Leading insect experts agree that the situation is often exaggerated and misinterpreted.

Colony Collapse

To grasp the current challenges, we must revisit the mid-2000s and CCD.

During this period, beekeepers noticed that a large portion of the worker bees had disappeared from their hives, leaving the queens, eggs, larvae, and a few bees to tend to them. While CCD predominantly captured American media attention, similar instances have been reported in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

The root causes of CCD remain uncertain but are likely a combination of disease, habitat loss, pesticide usage, and intensive management practices by beekeepers—all contributing factors.

It’s important to note that significant losses are not a new phenomenon. Beekeepers have documented similar events in the past, attributing them to various ailments and conditions.

Lavender is an excellent source of pollen and nectar for honeybees.

Unlike CCD, the recent issues affecting bees are less enigmatic. Early research suggests that many bee deaths are due to viruses transmitted by Varroa mites, which infest bees.

While these mites are known to cause harm and illness, they can generally be managed with pesticides. However, what appears to have happened is that these mites have developed resistance to the chemicals typically used against them.

This scenario might sound all too familiar. The development of resistance is almost an inevitable outcome across various fields, be it antibiotic treatment for bacteria, cancer therapies, or pest control in agriculture.

With the application of certain pesticides, genetic variability among pests means that some individuals may eventually withstand those chemicals better than others. Once these resistant individuals survive and breed, their offspring inherit this resistance.

A Nest Box as a Harvest

Pesticide and herbicide resistance are critical components of modern agriculture, central to understanding both chemical usage and the issues facing bees.

Globally, the majority of honeybees reside in hives, where they exist in semi-natural conditions that allow for efficient honey harvesting.

In the UK, beekeeping tends to be a hobby, but worldwide, commercial beekeeping operations manage thousands, if not tens of thousands, of hives.

Commercial beekeeping is often a highly technical and intensive agricultural practice, encompassing artificial insemination, requeening, feeding, migration to nectar sources, artificial wintering conditions, and disease management. While wild colonies exist, contemporary bees are primarily farmed species.

Bee Needs

While headlines may proclaim a crisis in bee populations, the data suggests otherwise. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, as of 2023, the global population of honeybee colonies has increased by 45% since 1990, despite CCD. Another study indicated a 85% increase since 1960.

It seems likely that the global bee population is not decreasing as dramatically as some narratives suggest. Beekeepers can often recover colony numbers, mitigating the impact of poor harvests.

The cultural significance of honeybees makes them one of the few admired insects. People care about them, and stories of their decline resonate emotionally. In response to alarming headlines, many ask, “What can I do to help?”

For some, the natural conclusion is, “I’ll become a beekeeper!” However, as noted by renowned bee expert Professor Dave Goulson, if you hear about declining songbird numbers, would you consider becoming a chicken farmer?

Such declines cannot be solved by novice beekeepers. In fact, if they manage to keep bees successfully (which is harder than it looks), they may inadvertently outcompete wild bee species and potentially transmit diseases to them. Their efforts could unintentionally harm the very bees they seek to protect.

Hence, bees are not the issue at hand. Like other livestock, they face health challenges, but they do not require our intervention.

That said, the recent media focus on CCD has had a rippling effect, creating a narrative around the decline of other pollinators.

Solitary bees, wasps, hornets, and butterflies are beginning to garner attention as people recognize that these insects also play a role in pollination.

Other pollinators like butterflies are declining in the UK and the US.

As awareness spreads, these stories intersect with the broader issue of declining insect populations. In the UK, 42% of pollinator species have decreased in abundance since the 1980s. Some species are faring better, but overall, the trends for pollinators remain downward.

What can you do to support these wild pollinators? If you have gardens or land—whether it’s your own or a work patch—you can transform it into a refuge for insects.

Planting nectar and pollen sources is one of the most effective actions you can take. Numerous species, such as fruit trees and lavender, can serve this purpose. A comprehensive list of nectar plants can be found online through resources like the Wildlife Trust and the Royal Horticultural Society.

Additionally, resist the urge to prune excessively, minimize pesticide use, and ensure some areas remain untouched. Bug hotels are beneficial, but leaving dead trees and natural debris in your garden can offer shelter and potential nesting sites.

Creating a pond is another excellent idea. Adding some sticks alongside it ensures thirsty insects can safely drink on warm days.

While bees are capturing all the attention, they may not be the primary beneficiaries of our concern. If your aim is to support bees, consider becoming an advocate for all insects, rather than just taking up beekeeping.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Tonight’s Meteor Shower: A Guide to Enjoying the Spectacular Perseid Meteor Show of 2025

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Perseid meteor shower is set to be one of the most prominent displays of 2025, providing a fantastic opportunity to gaze at the night sky.

These meteor showers are famous for their high meteor velocities, reaching up to 100 per hour under ideal conditions.

Moreover, if you wake up early to witness the meteor shower in the pre-dawn hours, you may catch another astronomical sight. On August 13th, Jupiter and Venus, the two brightest objects in the night sky after the moon, will make their closest approach of the year.

This guide has everything you need to enjoy the 2025 Perseid meteor shower to the fullest.

When will the Perseid meteor shower occur in 2025?

The Perseids will be active from July 17th to August 24th, peaking on the evening of August 12th.

This period will see the highest number of meteors, but if clouds or timing prevent you from witnessing the peak, you can still enjoy a good show between August 9th and 15th.

The best viewing times for the Perseids are from midnight until about an hour before dawn. However, even in the late evening, you might still spot a few meteors.

The Zenital Hourly Rate (ZHR) for the Perseids is estimated at 100-150 meteors per hour, but that doesn’t guarantee a large number of visible shooting stars.

“The ZHR represents the expected rate under ideal conditions, which are seldom met,” explains Pete Lawrence, an expert astronomer and presenter for Night Sky.

“Consequently, the actual number of visible meteors, or the visual hourly rate, is often lower. Nevertheless, a high ZHR indicates that good activity is possible.”

Where is the best place to view the Perseid meteor shower?

Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so your best bet is to find a clear area with as wide a view as possible.

While following the trails of the Perseid meteors, you’ll notice they all originate from the same point known as the Radiant in the constellation Perseus.

It’s advisable not to look directly at the Radiant; instead, gaze away from it to catch meteors with their long tails.

Finding Perseus is worthwhile as the constellation rises just as the sun sets and remains visible throughout the night in the northern sky.

The easiest way to locate it is to look for the W-shaped constellation Cassiopeia, which consists of prominent stars positioned higher in the sky; Perseus lies just below it.

What is the ideal location for observing meteor showers?

The prime spot to observe the 2025 Perseid meteor shower is a dark area with an unobstructed view of the sky.

Light pollution can wash out dim meteors, so it’s best to escape the urban sprawl and find a truly dark site. Ensure the location is safe and secure.

If you can’t get far, don’t fret; simply find a sheltered spot free from direct lighting. This could be your backyard or a local park where you can block out harsh streetlights.

Whenever possible, escape to a Dark Sky Site – Credit: Getty Images

How can I best view the Meteor Shower?

The optimal way to experience the meteor shower is to lie back and take in as much sky as possible.

Avoid using telescopes or binoculars as they limit your view; it’s best to watch with your own eyes.

Once you’re settled, allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness. This process takes about 30 minutes, although you’ll start noticing changes before that.

Be cautious — a single bright light can ruin your night vision, so ensure security lights are off and switch your phone to red light mode.

Does the moon affect visibility?

One uncontrollable form of light pollution is the moon.

The moon will be waxing in the days leading up to the August 9th peak of the 2025 Perseid meteor shower. On peak night, it will be about 88% illuminated and prominent throughout the night.

If possible, position yourself so that buildings or trees block the moon’s glare.

The moon rises in the east and ascends higher into the sky as the night progresses.

Top tips for enjoying the Perseid Meteor Shower

Choose a dark location. Whether it’s a designated dark sky area or a secluded part of your backyard, find a spot far from artificial light while enjoying unobstructed views of the sky.
Use red light on your phone. Red lights help preserve your night vision. Some phones can be set to red light mode, while others may need an app.
Dress warmly. Even in August, sitting still can get chilly at night. Layers will help you accommodate changing temperatures.
Make yourself comfortable. Staring at the sky can strain your neck. A sun lounger could support your head. Alternatively, lying on the ground with a blanket can provide cushioning and warmth.
Give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. This takes about 20-30 minutes; the longer you wait, the more meteors you’ll likely see.

What triggers the Perseid meteor shower?

“A meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through sparse dust particles scattered along a comet’s orbit,” notes Lawrence.

In the case of the Perseids, the comet is 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which completes an orbit around the solar system every 133 years, last passing in 1995.

“The density of dust is greatest in the center of the stream and thins out in the outer regions,” adds Lawrence.

The dust grains, about the size of sand particles, travel through Earth’s atmosphere at an astonishing speed of approximately 215,000 km/h (130,000 mph).

This rapid motion causes the air to heat up to extreme temperatures, resulting in brilliant streaks of light across the sky.

The peaks of meteor showers occur when Earth traverses the densest parts of the dust stream.

“Earth will start to intersect with the broad dust stream of 109P/Swift-Tuttle around July 14th and continue through September 1st,” says Lawrence.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Newly Discovered Giant Stick Insect Species in Australia

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Australian entomologists unveil a remarkable new species from the Stick Insect genus Acrofella, identified from two female specimens and their eggs.

Holotype of Acrofera Alta in its natural habitat. Image credit: Ross M. Coupland.

Originally described in 1835, Acrofella is a genus of stick insects belonging to the tribe Phasmatini.

Species in this genus inhabit nearby regions including China, Australia, New Guinea, Tasmania, and Lord Howe Island.

The newly classified Acrofera species is found in the highlands of the Wettropic Bioregion in Queensland, Australia.

“Key locations include Lewis National Park, Evelyn Tableland (likely encompassing Maarlan National Park), Topaz, Upper Baron, Mount Hypamie, and Dumbra,” stated Professor Angus Emmott from James Cook University and his colleague Ross Coupland.

The new species, named Acrofera Alta, can reach lengths of up to 40 cm (16 inches) and weigh approximately 44 g.

Typically light brown in color, this species is exceptionally camouflaged despite its large size.

“Although there are long stick insects in this region, they tend to have relatively light bodies,” explained Professor Emmott.

“As far as we know, this is Australia’s heaviest insect.”

The eggs of Acrofera Alta were also crucial in distinguishing it as a new species.

“Every stick insect species has distinct egg characteristics,” noted Professor Emmott.

“Their surfaces, textures, and corrosion patterns vary. Shapes can differ as well.”

“Even the caps of the eggs are uniquely identifiable.”

Researchers speculate that Acrofera Alta may not have been discovered earlier due to the inaccessibility of its habitat.

“Their environment could explain their large body size,” Professor Emmott added.

“It is a cool, damp habitat.”

“Larger body weight might enable them to endure colder temperatures, which could have led to their evolutionary characteristics over millions of years.”

The identification of such a large new insect species highlights the critical need to conserve remaining biologically diverse habitats and ecosystems, with potential undiscovered species like stick insects awaiting description.

The discovery of Acrofera Alta has been documented in a study published in the journal Zootaxa.

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Ross M. Coupland and Angus J. Emmott. 2025. New giant species of Acrofella Gray, 1835 (Fasmida: Fasmida), from the highlands of Wettropic, Queensland, Australia. Zootaxa 5647(4): 371-383; doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5647.4.4

Source: www.sci.news

Unique Fossil of a Boy’s Chest Dragon Unearthed in Germany

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rhynchocephalians – These are members of the sister group to squamates (which include lizards, snakes, and worm lizards) and encompass living Tuataras (Sphenodon punctatus), dating back to the late Jurassic period in the Solnhofen Archipelago. They have been recognized for nearly two centuries, with an increasing number of specimens and species, yet their evolutionary development remains poorly understood. A well-documented marine rhynchocephalian genus, Plerosaurus, existed during the late Jurassic period about 150 million years ago, but clear juvenile specimens have yet to be identified among more than 15 known specimens (with several unlisted).

Plerosaurus is a remarkable long-swimming Rhynchocephalian that lived around 150 million years ago in what is now Germany during the late Jurassic period. Image credit: Roberto Ochoa.

“Genuine Plerosaurus is the most common rhynchocephalian found in the Late Jurassic deposits of Canjuers and Cerin, France, as well as in the Solnhofen Archipelago, Germany,” stated Dr. Victor Beccari from the SNSB-Bayerische Staatsammlung für Paläontologie and the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, along with his colleagues.

“This genus is characterized by an elongated triangular skull, a reshaped anterior jaw, an absence of a low anterior flange in the front part of the teeth, and reduced forelimbs.”

“Currently, there are two species within this genus: Pleurosaurus goldfussi and Pleurosaurus ginsburgi.”

“The specific distinctions are based on the count of anterior sacral vertebrae (50 and 57, respectively), the ratio of skull to appendix, and more advanced pelvic development in Pleurosaurus goldfussi.”

“Extensive research has been undertaken; however, in the more than 15 published specimens of Plerosaurus, no clear juvenile specimens have been recorded as of yet.”

Plerosaurus cf. P. ginsburgi: (a) Standard light photographs. (b) Photo under UV light. (c) Interpretation diagram of the specimen. Image credit: Beccari et al., doi: 10.1002/ar.25545.

In a recent study, researchers described a juvenile specimen of Plerosaurus.

The fossils were sourced from the Mörnsheim Formation near Müllheim, close to Solnhofen, Bavaria, Germany.

“This fossil is especially intriguing as it distinctly exhibits characteristics typical of young animals,” commented the paleontologist.

“Its teeth are small, show no signs of wear, its bones remain underdeveloped, and the vertebrae are still forming.”

“This small size, along with other features, makes it the first clearly identified juvenile Plerosaurus. These specimens bridge crucial gaps in understanding the growth and development of these extinct reptiles.”

Findings of juvenile Plerosaurus have significant implications for classifying another genus, Acrosaurus.

“Historically, some paleontologists have posited that Acrosaurus might represent a juvenile form of Plerosaurus, but until now, there was no substantial evidence to support this theory,” the researchers noted.

“These new fossils exhibit numerous similarities to previously identified Acrosaurus, suggesting that it is not a separate genus, but rather a hatchling form of Plerosaurus.”

“For years, I have sought to comprehend how these animals grew and developed, but I had never encountered such a young, well-preserved specimen,” remarked Dr. Andrea Villa from the Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont Institute.

The team’s paper was published in the March 2025 issue of Anatomical Records.

____

Victor Beccari et al. 2025. Young Pleurosauride (Rhynchocephalia) from the Titonians of the Mörnsheim Formation, Germany. Anatomical Records 308(3):844-867; doi:10.1002/ar.25545

Source: www.sci.news

Is It Possible to Capture Quantum Creepiness Without Entanglement?

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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Light particles seem to display quantum peculiarities even without entanglement

Wladimir Bulgar/Science Photo Library

Particles that appear unentangled achieved significant results in the renowned Entanglement test. This experiment offers fresh insights into the peculiarities of the quantum realm.

Nearly sixty years ago, physicist John Stewart Bell devised a method to determine whether our universe can be better explained through quantum mechanics or traditional theories. The pivotal distinction lies in quantum theory’s incorporation of “abbiotics,” or effects that can persist across vast distances. Remarkably, every experimental implementation of Bell’s tests to date supports the idea that our physical reality is non-local, indicating that we reside in a quantum world.

However, these experiments primarily focused on particles that are closely associated via quantum entanglement. Now, Xiao-Song Ma from Nanjing University in China, along with his team, claims they conducted the Bell Test without relying on entanglement. “Our research may offer a novel viewpoint on non-local correlations,” he states.

The experiment commenced with four specialized crystals, each generating two light particles, or photons, when exposed to a laser. These photons possess various properties measurable by researchers, such as polarization and phase, which describe their behavior as electromagnetic waves. The researchers guided the photons through an intricate arrangement of optical devices, including crystals and lenses, prior to detection.

A standard Bell test experiment involves two fictional experimenters, Alice and Bob, evaluating the properties of correlated particles. By correlating their observations with the “inequality” equation, Alice and Bob can ascertain whether the particles are linked in a non-local manner.

In the new experiment, Alice and Bob were represented by sets of optical devices and detectors instead of interlinked photons. In fact, the researchers incorporated devices in the setup to prevent the intertwining of particle frequencies and velocities. Nonetheless, when Alice and Bob’s measurements were analyzed using the inequality equation, the results indicated a stronger correlation among photons than what could be explained by local effects alone.

Mario Clen from the Max Planck Institute for the Light of Light in Germany suggests that this might be linked to another peculiar property of photons. They indicate it is impossible to identify which photons were “born” within the crystal and what paths they took, making them indistinguishable. Previously, Clen, along with colleagues, utilized this property, termed “distinguishability by path identity,” to entangle photons. However, in this scenario, they confirmed that only one type of quantum peculiarity remains indistinguishable.

The team has yet to formulate a definitive theory explaining how entanglement outcomes can manifest in the Bell test without entanglement actually being employed, but Ma proposes that several underlying quantum phenomena could be indistinguishable as a condition. Thus, even strategies that lack entanglements might serve as the fundamental components necessary to create non-local correlations.

Krenn and Ma express hope that fellow physicists will propose new alternative theories and identify experimental gaps within the Bell test. This mirrors the historical development surrounding the standard Bell test, where nearly five decades elapsed between the initial experiment and the establishment of quantum theory, successfully ruling out all alternative explanations.

One contentious aspect may be the “post-selection” technique utilized by the team. Stefano Paesani at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark argues that this raises questions about whether unentangled photons can be convincingly recognized as non-local within Bell’s tests. After the selection process, he contends that the experiments resemble more traditional scenarios where entanglement exists.

Jeff Randeen from the University of Ottawa, Canada, asserts that while the Bell test can create experiments to examine light, this “holds no profound significance concerning the nature of the universe or reality.”

In such circumstances, there exists the potential for Alice and Bob to act as identical observers or to generate correlations that researchers might misinterpret as non-local effects. Lundeen maintains that the new experiment doesn’t completely eliminate the possibility that Alice and Bob were colluding. “Thus, this experiment doesn’t quite carry the same weight as the renowned violation of Bell’s inequality,” he states.

“This represents one of the elegant extensions of a landmark finding from the ‘Glorious Age’ of the 1990s,” notes Aephraim Steinberg at the University of Toronto, Canada. Nevertheless, in his assessment, traces of entanglement remain in the new experiment—not at the photon level, but rather within the quantum field.

Looking forward, the team aims to enhance the apparatus to address some of these criticisms. For instance, by generating more photons from each crystal, researchers could avoid relying on selection thereafter. “Our collaborative group has already pinpointed several critical potential shortcomings, which we are eager to tackle in the future,” states Ma.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

This summer’s relentless heat and suffocating humidity have taken a toll on me.

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sweltering, sticky, and unyielding: this has been the reality for numerous countries this summer, with over 12 states reporting elevated humidity levels in July.

Preliminary data indicates that most of the affected 48 states experienced significant humidity in the Midwest, East Coast, and parts of the Mid-Atlantic last month. Research compiled by Oregon State University.

While hot and humid weather is typical in summer, the combined “feels-like” heat index values have soared into triple digits for extended periods in states like Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Florida last month.

Cities like Pittsburgh, Roanoke, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., all marked the most humid July on record. Data managed by Iowa Environmental Mesonet tracks precipitation, soil temperature, and various environmental conditions. New York City and Raleigh, North Carolina, also faced severe humidity levels, while humidity in Detroit and Cincinnati hit their third highest levels last month.

In Paducah, Kentucky, the extreme heat and humidity from July 16th to 30th shattered many records for the city.

“We have reached the end of Paducah’s longest sustained high humidity event in the last 75 years,” stated the local National Weather Service branch. This was mentioned in a post on X on Thursday, noting that the hours spent at “oppressive humidity levels” exceeded 300% of the normal for July.

As climate change progresses, days with high humidity are expected to become more frequent. A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to increased humidity levels which present significant risks to health and public safety.

Elevated heat index values raise the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities, especially among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. A 2022 study from nonprofit Climate Central shows that a mixture of high heat and humidity can hinder the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating.

“In various regions across the country and globe, dangerous heat is often coupled with high humidity. I discussed this in an analysis.

Moreover, a warmer atmosphere can lead to more intense storms, which can unleash large amounts of rain and result in hazardous flash floods.

So far this year, over 3,000 flash flood warnings have been issued, as reported by Iowa State University data.

Tragic flooding last month claimed at least 120 lives in the Hill Country area of central Texas, while multiple storms in New Mexico caused repeated flooding throughout July. At the end of the month, a severe storm hit New York City and nearby Tri-state areas, creating chaos during evening commutes.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

DNA Analysis Uncovers the True Cause Behind the Demise of Napoleon’s Army in 1812

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Napoleon’s retreat from Russia in 1812 Ary Scheffer

Iandagnall Computing / Alamy Stock Photo

During the retreat of Napoleon’s formidable 500,000-strong army from Russia in 1812, nearly half of the troops fell victim to disease, starvation, and freezing temperatures. Recent advanced DNA analysis is shedding light on the pathogens involved in this tragic demise.

In the summer of 1812, Napoleon amassed an army of 600,000 to invade Russia but was compelled to withdraw from Moscow, depleting the city of resources, and retreat toward the Polish border for the winter. From October to December 1812, around 300,000 French soldiers perished from famine, exposure, and illness.

Survivor accounts from that era indicate that typhoid fever and trench fever were leading causes of mortality and suffering among the troops, a premise that was further validated by genetic testing conducted nearly two decades ago.

Recently, Nicholas Rascovan and his team at the Pasteur Institute in Paris analyzed DNA extracted from the teeth of 13 soldiers interred in Vilnius, Lithuania.

The research team identified the presence of Salmonella enterica, which triggers peritoneal fever, and Borrelia recurrentis, a louse-borne pathogen that leads to recurrent fever.

Unlike earlier studies that relied on methods to amplify specific DNA sequences, Rascovan and his colleagues utilized advanced metagenomic techniques to detect genetic material from pathogens in the samples, allowing for a more extensive analysis.

“Considering our findings, it is plausible that the deaths of these soldiers were due to a combination of various illnesses, including fatigue, colds, lactophoreal fever, and louse-borne recurrent fever,” Rascovan and his team noted in an unpublished report. The team opted not to comment further on the story.

While not always lethal, louse-borne recurrent fever can considerably debilitate individuals who are already in a weakened state, according to the researchers.

Sally Wasef from the Queensland Institute of Technology in Australia opines that historical accounts of symptoms may correspond to multiple infectious diseases beyond those identified in the recent study.

Traces of microbial DNA were isolated from ancient remains, according to Wasef. “In my opinion, this implies that the conclusions drawn are more suggestive than definitive.”

Rascovan and his colleagues also acknowledge the necessity of examining a greater number of soldiers who perished during 1812.

The research underscores the potential of novel methodologies to identify possible infectious agents in historical populations, Wasef explains. She advocates for applying these techniques to study diseases in populations post-contact in regions like the US or Australia.

“Such research holds great promise for uncovering the impact of disease on historical population declines, particularly when written records are sparse or biased,” states Wasef.

topic:

Archaeology/
Infectious diseases

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Method We Use to Train AIs Increases Their Likelihood of Producing Nonsense

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Certain AI training techniques may lead to dishonest models

Cravetiger/Getty Images

Researchers suggest that prevalent methods for training artificial intelligence models may increase their propensity to provide deceptive answers, aiming to establish “the first systematic assessment of mechanical bullshit.”

It is widely acknowledged that large-scale language models (LLMs) often produce misinformation or “hagaku.” According to Jaime Fernandez Fissac from Princeton University, his team defines “bullshit” as “discourse designed to manipulate an audience’s beliefs while disregarding the importance of actual truth.”

“Our analysis indicates that the problems related to bullshit in large-scale language models are quite severe and pervasive,” remarks FISAC.

The researchers categorized these instances into five types: “This red car combines style, charm, and adventure that captivates everyone,” Weasel Words—”Ambiguous statements like ‘research suggests that in some cases, uncertainties may enhance outcomes’; Essentialization—employing truthful statements to create a false impression; unverified claims; and sycophancy.

They evaluated three datasets composed of thousands of AI-generated responses to various prompts from models including GPT-4, Gemini, and Llama. One dataset included queries specifically designed to test the generation of bullshit when AIS was asked for guidance or recommendations, alongside others focused on online shopping and political topics.

FISAC and his colleagues first employed LLMs to determine if the responses aligned with one of the five categories and then verified that the AI’s classifications matched those made by humans.

The team found that the most critical truths posed challenges stemming from a training method called reinforcement learning from human feedback, aimed at enhancing the machine’s utility by offering immediate feedback on its responses.

However, FISAC cautions that this approach is problematic, as models “sometimes conflict with honesty,” prioritizing immediate human approval and perceived usefulness over truthfulness.

“Who wants to engage in the lengthy and subtle rebuttal of bad news or something that seems evidently true?” FISAC questions. “By attempting to adhere to our standards of good behavior, the model learns to undervalue the truth in favor of a confident, articulate response to secure our approval.”

This study revealed that reinforcement learning from human feedback notably heightened bullshit behavior, with inflated rhetoric increasing by nearly 40%, substantial enhancements in Weasel Words, and over half of unverified claims.

Heightened bullshitting is especially detrimental, as team member Kaique Liang points out, leading users to make poorer decisions. In cases where the model’s features were uncertain, deceptive claims surged from five percent to three-quarters following human training.

Another significant issue is that bullshit is prevalent in political discourse, as AI models “tend to employ vague and ambiguous language to avoid making definitive statements.”

AIS is more likely to behave this way when faced with conflicts of interest, as the system caters to multiple stakeholders including both the company and its clients, as the researchers discovered.

To address this issue, the researchers propose transitioning to a “hindcasting feedback” model. Instead of seeking immediate feedback post-output, the system should first generate a plausible simulation of potential outcomes based on user input, which is then presented to a human evaluator for assessment.

“Ultimately, we hope that by gaining a deeper understanding of the subtle but systematic ways AI may seek to mislead us, we can better inform future initiatives aimed at creating genuinely truthful AI systems,” concludes FISAC.

Daniel Tiggard of the University of San Diego, though not involved in the study, expresses skepticism regarding discussions of LLMs’ output under these circumstances. He argues that just because LLMs generate bullshit, it does not imply intentional deception, as AI systems currently stand. I left to deceive us, and I have no interest in doing so.

“The primary concern is that this framing seems to contradict sensible recommendations about how we should interact with such technology,” states Tiggard. “Labeling it as bullshit risks anthropomorphizing these systems.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

What is Required to Rebuild Economics with Nature at its Core?

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Shrimp Harvesting on a Farm in Southeastern Vietnam

Quang Ngoc Nguyen/Alamy

About Natural Capital
Parta Dasgupta (Witness Book) (UK, now); Mariner’s Book (USA, January 20, 2026)

How do environmental hazards associated with production influence costs? What implications does that have for the nation’s economy? Can we quantify the significance of a healthy living environment and the biodiversity surrounding us?

In 2021, Partha Dasgupta, emeritus professor of economics at Cambridge University, authored a comprehensive 610-page report addressing these inquiries for the UK government. His latest work, About Natural Capital: The Value of the World Around Us, aims to broaden its accessibility.

Your opinion of Dasgupta’s success may hinge on your interest in an analytical exploration of economic concepts interspersed with engaging narratives. His core thesis asserts that GDP’s utility in measuring economic success is fundamentally inadequate. Historical advancements in living standards have primarily stemmed from human innovations; as Dasgupta notes, “entrepreneurs have prioritized labor and capital-saving devices over natural savings devices.”

This is particularly evident with the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, a hallmark of humanity’s quest for “labor and capital savings.” High-tech billionaires behind AI tout extraordinary productivity gains, yet the substantial water consumption for the cooling of associated data centers is often overlooked.

Dasgupta notes in his original report that from 1992 to 2014, per capita human capital (encompassing our health, education, and skills) rose by about 13% globally, while per capita natural capital plummeted by nearly 40%. To remedy this disparity, he champions the widespread adoption of a metric for “global wealth per person” that incorporates nature.

The narrative can be further expanded by examining shrimp farms in Vietnam and Bangladesh. Dasgupta elucidates how these operations adversely impact the “natural capital” of those nations, effects that remain unaccounted for in the retail price of shrimp. The establishment of shrimp farms typically necessitates the destruction of mangroves and salt marshes, reducing carbon storage capabilities.

Notably, around 30% of the diet for these shrimp consists of soybeans cultivated in plantations that replace tropical forests. Dasgupta references a case study suggesting that if true environmental costs were factored in, shrimp export prices might rise by 15-20%. Essentially, affluent nations purchasing shrimp may be receiving an unfair bargain.

While I do not profess expertise in economics, I am generally apprehensive about pursuing economic gains at the expense of significant environmental degradation. So, what are the actionable steps we can take? In a concise chapter, Dasgupta proposes a method to value nature adequately. This could involve collecting fees from shipping companies navigating global waters, with proceeds allocated towards job creation to alleviate pressures on ecosystems worldwide.

These concepts resonate intuitively for me, but I find myself seeking more detailed explanations. Dasgupta alludes to the challenges of achieving collective agreement and the lack of enthusiasm surrounding global shipping fees. This is an area where I wished he presented a more impassioned argument. While his ideas are captivating, they lack the urgency many readers might desire.

About Natural Capital provokes a reevaluation of economic perspectives, though I yearn for a more emotive approach. Perhaps this expectation is excessive for such a publication, yet I remain concerned that crucial messages may not resonate with a broader audience.

Jason Arun Mruguez is a writer based in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

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Source: www.newscientist.com

An Enchanting Artistic Representation of Marine Life Through the Ages

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Strawberry squid, color lithograph

Smithsonian Library, Washington, DC

The world’s oceans, covering one-tenth of Earth’s surface, are the cradle of life, showcasing an astonishing variety of creatures with diverse shapes, colors, and evolutionary traits.

‘Pilchard (Argentina Carolina)’, hand-colored engraving from Mark Catesby

National Agricultural Library, Beltsville, Maryland

Marine biologist Helen Scale’s latest book, Ocean Art: From the Coast to the Deep, takes readers through 140 stunning photographs and illustrations of underwater vistas and their diverse inhabitants.

Yashima Gakutei, three crabs on the edge of the water

The Met Museum

The realm of art mirrors the diversity of marine life, and Scale expertly intertwines insights about artists with the wonders of oceanic life, blending marine biology with art history.

Cyphonophore (Forscaliatrod), illustration

Library, Woods Hole, MA

“It’s captivating to view the ocean through the perspectives of artists and craftsmen,” Scale noted. “They brilliantly convey the essence of life beneath the surface.”

Mycenaean stirrup vessel featuring an octopus, circa 1200 to 1100 BC

The Met Museum

Throughout history, culture has shown a deep fascination with marine life. The featured artworks include a lithograph of the Strawberry squid (Histioteuthis heteroopsis) from 1851, Catesby’s hand-colored sculpture of the Pilchard (Argentine Carolina) from 1743, a 1830 woodblock print from Japan showing crabs, an 1888 illustration of a siphonophore (Forskalia tholoides), and a Mycenaean jar illustrating an octopus from around 1200 to 1100 BC. Additional ceramic artifacts include lobster-shaped containers from Peru and crabs depicted in Nazca ceramic bowls from the 2nd to 4th centuries.

L: (Peru) “Lobster-shaped Stirrup Vessel”, R: Crab Ceramic Bowl

Left; Walters Art Museum. Right; The Met Museum

Ocean Art is scheduled for release in the UK on August 1st and in the US on September 26th.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ozempic: A Potential Key to Reversing Your Biological Age

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Growing evidence of Ozempic’s extensive health benefits

David J. Phillip / Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo

Ozempic, a medication for type 2 diabetes, has been linked to a deceleration in aging, with credible evidence emerging to support this claim.

Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which contain semaglutide, have been increasingly recognized for their impact on obesity and are being researched for various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, addiction, and dementia.

Previously, scientists speculated on their potential to slow biological aging, based primarily on animal studies and observational human data. However, recent clinical trial results offer direct evidence, according to Varun Dwaraka from Trudiagnostic, a diagnostics company based in Lexington, Kentucky.

To evaluate a drug’s impact on biological aging, researchers utilize epigenetic clocks, which highlight patterns of DNA methylation—a chemical modification that influences gene activity. These patterns evolve with age and can be adjusted by lifestyle factors, including diet. Essentially, an individual’s biological age might differ from their chronological age.

Dwaraka and his team examined 108 epigenetic clocks in individuals with HIV-related fat hypertrophy, a condition leading to excess fat accumulation and hastened cellular aging. In a randomized controlled trial, one group received Ozempic weekly for 32 weeks, while the control group received a placebo.

Using blood samples collected pre- and post-trial, the researchers determined the biological ages of 84 participants. “By the study’s conclusion, individuals administered semaglutide were, on average, biologically 3.1 years younger,” states Dwaraka. The placebo group showed no noteworthy changes. “Semaglutide not only decelerates aging but may also reverse it in certain participants,” he adds.

The research revealed that various organs and systems, particularly the heart and kidneys, exhibited slowed biological aging, with the most significant influences noticeable in the inflammatory system and brain.

Dwaraka attributes this phenomenon to semaglutide’s role in fat distribution and metabolic health. Excess fat surrounding organs can release pro-aging molecules that modify the DNA methylation of crucial age-related genes. Semaglutide effectively curtails low-grade inflammation, which is another contributor to epigenetic aging.

While the findings originated from individuals with HIV-associated fat hypertrophy, many of the biological pathways impacted by semaglutide are not unique to HIV. “Thus, similar effects on epigenetic aging may be expected in other populations,” asserts Dwaraka.

It’s not surprising that such drugs can decelerate aging, says Randy Shealy from the University of Michigan School of Medicine, as they alleviate metabolic stress on various cells and diminish inflammation—key drivers of aging throughout different cell types. However, he posits that much of the benefits arise from semaglutide improving overall health rather than direct cellular effects.

It remains to be seen if semaglutide should be taken to maintain biological youth. “It’s premature to widely recommend it as an anti-aging therapy,” Dwaraka cautions. Nonetheless, he believes this study will accelerate ongoing efforts to repurpose existing medications for age-related challenges, expediting approval processes while mitigating the risk of unforeseen side effects. “Semaglutide could become a leading candidate in this arena,” concludes Dwaraka.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Cameras Mimicking Human Vision Could Enhance Astronomical Discoveries

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sirius Binary Star System Captured with a Neurotype Camera

Satyapreet Singh, Chetan Singh Thakur, Nirupam Roy, Indian Institute of Science, India

Neurotype cameras, designed to emulate human vision, offer significant benefits for astronomers by enabling the capture of both bright and dim celestial objects in a single frame. This allows for tracking swift-moving entities without the risk of motion blur.

Unlike conventional digital cameras that sample a grid of pixels multiple times per second, recording data for each pixel each time, neurotype cameras, or event cameras, function quite differently. Each pixel is activated only if there’s a change in brightness at that specific location. If the brightness remains constant, no new data is saved, resembling how the human eye processes visual information.

This innovative approach presents various benefits. By recording only changing pixels, less data is generated while maintaining a much higher frame rate. Furthermore, these cameras measure light on a logarithmic scale, enabling the detection of fainter objects next to brighter ones that may saturate conventional camera images.

To investigate the potential of this technology for astronomical applications, Chetan Singh Thakur and his team at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru mounted a neurotype camera on a 1.3-meter telescope at the Aliyabatta Observatory in Uttarkhand, India.

They successfully captured meteoroids traveling between the Earth and the Moon and also obtained images of the Sirius binary system, which includes Sirius A, the brightest star in the night sky, and Sirius B.

Sirius A is approximately 10,000 times brighter than Sirius B, making it challenging to capture both in a single image using traditional sensors, as noted by Mark Norris from the University of Central Lancashire, UK, who was not part of the study.

According to Singh Thakur, neurotype cameras excel at tracking fast-moving objects due to their high frame rates. “For high-speed objects, you can capture their movement without blur, unlike conventional cameras,” he explains.

Telescopes typically utilize multiple sensors that can be swapped as needed. Norris points out that a neurotype camera could serve as an additional tool for viewing scenarios where both very bright and very faint objects need to be observed concurrently, or for quickly moving targets like the recently identified interstellar object 3i/Atlas.

Traditionally, to follow fast-moving objects, astronomers would need to pan the telescope. However, neurotype cameras can accurately track the movement of these objects precisely while maintaining background details and resolving their locations.

“Do you want to know the brightness of an object or its location? In quantum mechanics, you can’t ascertain both at the same instant,” Norris states. “This technology offers a potential method to achieve both simultaneously.”

While neurotype cameras provide unique advantages, they may not replace all sensor applications. Their resolution is typically lower than that of charge-coupled devices (CCDs), which are commonly used in digital cameras, achieving an efficiency of about 78% compared to the 95% efficiency of CCDs. This disparity makes traditional sensors more effective at capturing dim objects near their detection limits.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Alex Cultivates His Latest Novel.

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“The faster the planet, the more intense the storms…”

Elementix / Alamy stock photos

Last month, Earth witnessed some of its shortest recorded days. The planet spun rapidly enough to shave 1.4 milliseconds off the usual 24 hours. These natural accelerations of Earth’s rotation are often imperceptible. Yet, if you’re like me, the sensation that our world is increasingly chaotic—at least metaphorically—may feel familiar.

In my debut novel circular motion, I explore what occurs when Earth’s rotation accelerates not just by milliseconds, but by a minute, an hour, or even 12 hours. What happens when our planet begins to spin at an astonishing speed?

The sunrise unfolds as we imagine it. How many of us already feel pressed for time in a single day? In circular motion, the characters find themselves overstretched as the days grow shorter, struggling against the demands of their daily lives. Their rush only deepens the issue, relying on rapid global transport systems, responsible for the planet’s acceleration within the narrative. (Cyclical themes often appear in fiction.)

However, when the planet accelerates sufficiently, scheduling mishaps become the least of the characters’ worries. The spin of Earth impacts numerous facets of life. For instance, it governs the movement of liquid metals within the Earth and fortifies the planet’s magnetic field. Altered spins could disrupt everything from animal migration patterns to the visibility of the auroras. Ultimately, I had to select which effects to portray in the book for literary significance, including whimsical ones (like animals wandering off).

Upon discovering that cyclones would increase, I noted striking parallels—both with the “circle” motifs in my book and the genuine climate crisis presented in circular motion. Cyclones (along with hurricanes and typhoons) depend on the “Coriolis effect,” wherein air and water are deflected from the quickly spinning equator towards the slower-spinning poles. This phenomenon results in counterclockwise storms in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise ones in the Southern Hemisphere. The faster the planet spins, the more intense the storms become.

Yet the aspect I felt most compelled to illustrate—the most vivid and striking manifestation of modern-day dizziness and disorientation—was the effect of planetary spin on gravity.

As the Earth rotates and we spin with it, centripetal forces keep us grounded. Without this force, we would be flung into space (albeit slowly), like a hammer released during an athletic throw, or like glasses sliding off your face if you spin too quickly. While my glasses may be fitting a bit too loosely, thankfully our position on Earth remains stable. What anchors us is gravity. However, with increased rotation, gravity effectively diminishes (so to speak), making us feel lighter. I was both thrilled and a bit apprehensive, learning that Earth’s rotation makes us feel about 1% lighter than if the planet stood still. At the equator, where you’re moving fastest around Earth’s axis, the circle you trace is widest.

Further from the equator, this phenomenon is less pronounced, but it’s undoubtedly odd. The direction of gravity (which pulls towards the center of the Earth) doesn’t align with the circular path you’re taking (around Earth’s axis). Consequently, Earth’s rotation not only weakens gravity but also creates the sensation of it being tilted.

As a novelist, I was dedicated to envisioning how this would feel at increased speeds. We calculated the strength and direction of what the book’s characters term “gravity loss” in London, California, and the Caribbean. Where does a ball come to a stop when rolling on this tilted landscape? What does the Beijing skyline appear like if it tilts 7 degrees away? If the land is slanted, is it akin to viewing a decline? (Not precisely!) Is it indeed 7 degrees? (Kind of!) Progressively, the world in circular motion transforms into a more topsy-turvy place.

However, the central question the book presents is how one feels a sense of belonging in such a world. In circular motion, the characters’ lives remain largely undisturbed by Earth’s acceleration. It’s not their relationships, career paths, faith, or sense of self that are impacted. They pursue love and meaning, feeling unmoored, askew, and spiraling through contemporary existence. Indeed, we grapple with that too.

Alex Foster circular motion (Grove Press) The latest selections from the New Scientist Book Club. Join us and read along here.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Adam Roberts’ New Scientist Book Club Review: Lakes of Darkness – A Mixed Bag

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist Book Club has just read Adam Roberts’ Lake in the Dark

Laurie photos

Following the journey through Khalian Bradley’s *Time Saving*, the New Scientist Book Club ventured in the opposite direction for our latest read: the far future and some hard science fiction with Adam Roberts’ *Lake of Darkness*. Set in a seemingly utopian society, the narrative revolves around two spacecraft orbiting a black hole, and one captain receiving orders to kill all crew members as commanded by a voice from the depths of that black hole. Not quite utopia, but rather a chilling twist from Roberts’s protagonist, Saccade^st in the century, as we delve deeper into this mystical entity.

The reception among our readers is varied; some found it thoroughly enjoyable while others felt its pacing was sluggish. Personally, I resonate with Paul Jonas, a member of the New Scientist Book Club. He shared on Facebook that he was “fascinated by the story” and “appreciated the hard science components relating to space travel, black holes, and utopian societies.” Paul’s insights into the philosophical elements tied to Deleuze’s thinking in this novel truly impress me.

I tend to be quite discerning when it comes to fiction, and rarely find books claiming to be humorous truly engaging (Terry Pratchett being the joyous exception). However, *Lake of Darkness* was different; I found myself intrigued at various moments, particularly appreciating how Roberts’ distant characters grappled with our own history while deciphering what they termed “so-called” *More’s Code*, the ancient system of long and short pulses each symbolizing a single glyph, alluding to the famous Beatles tune, *We All Live in a Yellow Submarine*.

Like Paul, I was captivated by the book’s portrayal of a future utopian society and the dilemmas it presents. During our discussion, Roberts expressed his intention to explore various subgenres of science fiction within his writing. While this perspective on utopia unfolds with its antagonist (spoiler alert – Satan), the idealized vision isn’t as appealing, given that all labor is assigned to “smart machines,” leaving people devoid of functionality. Time becomes filled with hobbies and fandoms, captured in the phrase, “Your people understand the value of everything but the cost. Without a cost, nothing holds worth. The best carries a significant price.” I found it quite delightful to navigate (and read) while contemplating this future society.

Charlotte Sye, another Book Club member, enjoyed listening to the audiobook and shared her enthusiasm: “I love the humor and hard science.” She added, “Life inside a black hole is particularly fascinating, as one character mentions, while there’s tremendous energy, is there really space and time?!”

Barbara Howe, however, had her reservations. She acknowledged the book’s “historical misconceptions” and “utopian critiques,” but felt that the depicted utopia was overly centered on trivial sexual themes, reflecting a male-centric viewpoint, neglecting notions like child-rearing or nurturing that are essential to true progress.

Barbara also pointed out a sentiment echoed by several other readers: she appreciated reading *Lake of Darkness* as an e-book, stating, “I had to look up more words in this single book than in my previous reads.” Alain Pellett echoed this, finding the vocabulary somewhat challenging and “offensive.” Jess Brady shared similar thoughts, enjoying the concept while criticizing the “slow prose.”

While such critiques weren’t particularly noticeable for me—possibly due to my willingness to overlook certain aspects—I did sympathize with Barbara’s assessment regarding the physics: “I tackle explanations of time travel alongside FTL (faster-than-light) travel. I accept these premises; they provide a thin veil of scientific reality over a fantastical plot device.”

Another prevalent criticism among readers was the lack of relatable characters. Alan expressed frustration, noting, “No one seemed sympathetic; their deaths evoked no remorse. They were all insufferable and dim-witted.” Karen Shees concurred, saying, “While the book initially caught my interest, I found the characters so unengaging that I wasn’t invested in their fate.”

I share this sentiment to some extent. Many characters were glaringly absurd, including guunarsonsdottir—distracting. Yet, I believe this serves a purpose, as I relished witnessing the turmoil of these intellectually lazy individuals as they navigated actual threats—through the seemingly redundant formation of another committee discussing their next steps. Moreover, I’m intrigued by the character Bartle Wasp; even the name piques curiosity.

Paul likely feels similarly. “Saccade was a compelling character. Living in a utopia surrounded by AI shapes her perspective. There’s no obligation to fully connect with every character; following their journey can be engaging even if they’re not traditional heroes.”

After finishing *Lake of Darkness*, I found numerous substantial concepts lingering in my thoughts. Did the black hole narrative hold coherence? Was the conclusion truly comprehensible? I’m still pondering—much like Barbara, who concluded that the novel “took unexpected turns and provoked thought.”

“In the latter part, I felt transported back to the 1980s,” she remarked, referencing Douglas Hofstadter’s *Godel, Escher, Bach: Eternal Golden Braid*. “It was a brief throwback, but the ending confuses me. Why did Joins act as she did? Did the entity achieve its desires?”

Paul similarly found the conclusion perplexing. “The ending likely bewildered many due to the complexities of black hole physics,” he noted. “Additionally, the geometric concepts about the inside/outside of infinite structures were truly mind-bending.”

However, let’s shift from the complexities of black holes to the anticipation for our next read. We’ll be diving into Circular Motion by Alex Foster. This captivating debut envisions a gradual acceleration of Earth’s spin, with increasingly disastrous consequences. I’m excited to share it and can’t wait to hear your thoughts! You can preview excerpts here. The narrative examines how this accelerated state might be humanity’s doing. I’ll be discussing the novel with him later this month, so feel free to drop any questions you have in our Facebook group.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Observations Indicate OJ 287 Galaxy May Host an Ultra-Massive Black Hole Binary at Its Core

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Utilizes data from 10m space-based wireless telescopes, including Radioastron. Astronomers have formed a network of 27 ground observation stations focused on OJ 287, a galaxy approximately 5 billion light-years distant from the Cancer constellations.

This image of OJ 287 reveals the sharply curved ribbon-like structure of the plasma jet emitted from its center. Image credits: Efthalia Traianou / Heidelberg University / IWR.

“Among the different types of active galactic nuclei, BL Lacertae (BL LAC) objects are notable for their rapid, large-amplitude variability and significant polarization across multiple wavelengths due to relativistic jets aligned closely with our line of sight.”

“A standout example of this subclass is OJ 287, characterized by a redshift of z = 0.306.”

Optical observations of OJ 287 have yielded an extensive light curve extending back to the 1880s, covering nearly 150 years.

This comprehensive dataset has uncovered periodic brightness variations, featuring marked 60-year cycles and notable high-brightness flares with recurrent double peaks occurring approximately every 12 years.

These periodic changes can be attributed to the presence of a binary supermassive black hole system, where secondary supermassive black holes follow eccentric precession paths around the more massive primary.

“The level of detail in the new images allows us to see the structure of the OJ 287 Galaxy like never before,” stated Dr. Traianou.

“The images penetrate deep into the galaxy’s center, revealing the jet’s sharply curved ribbon-like structure.”

“This also provides new insights into the composition and dynamics of plasma jets.”

“Certain regions exceed temperatures of 10 trillion Kelvin, indicating the release of extreme energy and movement near the black hole.”

Astronomers have also monitored the development, dispersion, and interactions of new shock waves along the jet, linking them to energies in the range of trillions of electron volts from rare gamma-ray observations made in 2017.

Using Radioastron and 27 terrestrial observatories, they captured images of OJ 287 across the radio spectrum.

The imaging relies on measurement techniques that utilize overlapping waves related to the properties of light waves.

“Interference measurement images bolster the hypothesis that a binary supermassive black hole resides within OJ 287,” the researchers commented.

“This also offers critical insights on how these black holes influence the shape and direction of the emitted plasma jet.”

“These unique characteristics position the galaxy as an ideal candidate for further studies on black hole mergers and associated gravitational waves.”

Survey results will be published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

____

E. Traianou et al. 2025. Reveal ribbon-like jets on OJ 287 via Radioastron. A&A 700, A16; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202554929

Source: www.sci.news

Ecosystem Unearthed 30,000 Feet Beneath the Pacific Ocean

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience, please visit a different browser.

SpaceX Launch Postponed Due to Weather

04:08
Currently Streaming

The “Prosperity” Ecosystem Discovered 30,000 Feet Below Pacific Ocean

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Exploring Why July 9, 2025, Is One of the Shortest Days in History

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EPA Proposes to Lift Greenhouse Gas Restrictions on Power Plants

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Shark Bites Surfer’s Board, Leading to Beach Closures in California

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Australian Mother Considers “Cryogenic” Option After Untimely Loss

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Underwater Volcanoes Near the Pacific Coast Erupting at Alarming Speed

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All-Female Crew Returns from Blue Origin Space Mission: “We Went to Space!”

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Biotech Companies Claim 13,000-Year-Extinct Wolf Has Returned

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01:45

SpaceX Launch Postponed Due to Weather

04:08
Currently Streaming

Discovery of the “Prosperity” Ecosystem Deep Below the Pacific Ocean

00:48
Up Next

Report Reveals Rising Costs of Weather-Related Disasters

02:29
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Source: www.nbcnews.com

Lightning Spans 515 Miles, Crossing Three States

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“It’s a remarkably unusual phenomenon,” he remarked. “We only uncovered it a decade ago when specific technologies became capable of tracing the exact start and end points of a lightning event.”

Mega flashes are quite common, although they typically occur only in regions where particular geographical and atmospheric conditions can trigger severe thunderstorms, Cerveny explained. For instance, in the Great Plains and the Midwest, warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico interacts with colder northern air, resulting in significant atmospheric instability.

These conditions coalesce to produce fierce storms, which can generate a megaflash of lightning. Cerveny notes that these extraordinarily long lightning bolts have previously been recorded in Argentina and southern France, and scientists theorize they may also manifest in parts of China and Australia.

The 2017 Megaflash was generated by an immense storm that spanned large sections of the US, from Texas to Iowa and Missouri. While megaflashes can cross multiple states, they occur high in the atmosphere and seldom cause ground damage, Cerveny indicated.

“They exist in the upper and central layers of thunderstorms, towering over 10,000 to 18,000 feet,” he stated.

The composite satellite image mapping of the Record Lightning Megaflash illustrates its progression over time. Lightning bolts beneath the clouds are marked by polar-colored symbols.
Michael Peterson/GTRI

The lightning bolt measuring 515 miles in length is discussed in a study published on Thursday. American Weather Society Bulletin.

“These new discoveries underscore significant public safety issues concerning electrification clouds that can travel vast distances, have substantial effects on the aviation industry, and generate flashes capable of igniting wildfires,” stated WMO Secretary-General Celestesauro in an accompanying announcement.

The extreme conditions conducive to their formation serve as a stark reminder of the tremendous power and danger posed by thunderstorms. In the US, lightning claims about 20 lives annually and injures hundreds more. According to weather services.

As per the WMO, Thursday’s classification indicates that the 2017 Lightning Flash exceeds the previous world record set five years ago by roughly 38 miles. The earlier lightning bolt, recorded on April 29, 2020, spanned 477.2 miles across parts of the Southern United States.

The 2017 MegaFlash was recognized after scientists revisited archival measurements used when the storm originally formed.

“When the initial research was conducted, we didn’t possess the technology available today,” Cerveny noted. “Now, we can employ satellite instruments to detect lightning bolts with high precision and pinpoint exactly where, how long, and for what duration the lightning event occurred.”

Experts predict that even longer megaflashes may emerge in the coming years, particularly as satellite technology enhances its detection capabilities.

“As time progresses and our data records expand, we can observe the rarest types of extreme lightning on Earth and study its widespread effects on society,” remarked Michael Peterson, an atmospheric scientist at Georgia’s Center for Intense Storm Research.

The WMO committee on Climate and Climate Extremes maintains official records of global, hemispheric, and regional extremes, including those for temperature, rainfall, wind, hail, lightning, tornadoes, and tropical cyclones.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Deep-Sea Submarines Uncover Flourishing Ecosystems

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The inhabitants of the ocean’s depths are more extraordinary than ever.

Utilizing an advanced submarine that dives deeper than Mount Everest, researchers have unearthed a vibrant ecosystem approximately 30,000 feet beneath the Pacific Ocean’s surface.

A research team led by Chinese scientists found it racing through fields of vivid crimson tubes and interacting with a unique type of worm that resembles a flower sprouting from the Earth’s crust.

Each organism thrived in dense beds of up to nine inches in length, with snow-like microbial mats creating ethereal underwater dust that spanned tens of feet.

Dominique Papineau, a senior research scientist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, shared insights with NBC News.

Hadal chemical synthesis-based community,
CAS’s Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering

Papineau, one of the study’s authors, announced the findings in a Wednesday publication in Nature. “Many Hadal organisms from these trenches exhibit remarkable shapes and colors,” he noted, explaining that they survive by hosting microorganisms that metabolize methane instead of relying on photosynthesis.

The depth of 19,000 to 30,000 feet is the deepest zone in the ocean, occurring where one tectonic plate collides with another. “Existing theories suggest that chemical bond-based communities are becoming increasingly common in the Hadal Trench, yet few have been discovered,” Papineau stated.

Karien Schnabel, a marine ecologist from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences, commented that the discovery was “truly remarkable” even though she was not part of the study.

“In these extraordinarily deep regions, there were an abundance of signs of life and wildlife,” she remarked.

A winter valley recorded by the crew’s dive fendou at 30,000 feet.
CAS’s Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering

Polycharts inhabit the tube dominate at the deepest 22,500 meters of the Aleutian, with spots of white microbial mats.
CAS’s Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering

“We don’t generally expect life to flourish in these extreme conditions due to the immense pressure,” she commented regarding the organisms.

The researchers highlighted, “The depths explored here, alongside the robust communities found, significantly broaden the known habitats, depths, and biogeographic distributions of numerous species.”

With sunlight unable to penetrate, these organisms depend on chemical synthesis for nourishment, rather than photosynthesis.

“These ecosystems are abundant in hydrogen sulfide, methane-rich fluids flowing through faults amid deep sediment layers in the trench,” the researchers explained.

They also endure crushing pressures of up to 98 megapascals (MPA), exceeding six times the force of a crocodile’s bite.

The diving for this recent study took place in July and August of the previous year, conducted by an international group of scientists from the Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

A small porthole of three submarines.
Karien Schnabel

They examined the trenches of Krill Kamchatka, which stretch from Hokkaido in Japan to the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia, spanning approximately 1,300 miles and integrating with the Aleutian trench that measures around 1,800 miles from Alaska to the Kenai Peninsula.

Schnabel had previously undertaken deep-sea studies aboard the same three submarines, known as Fendouzhe, utilized in this research.

She recounted her deep-sea experiences, one of which gained notoriety when a submarine malfunctioned during a 2023 mission to the Titanic wreck.

“Naturally, there’s a bit of anxiety when hanging over a 10-kilometer chasm on Earth,” she recalled, having explored New Zealand’s northern trenches in 2022, plunging over 32,000 feet below the Pacific Ocean’s surface.

“The window is merely 12 centimeters in diameter. It’s impossible to stretch your legs while seated on a tiny bench within a compact titanium sphere measuring only 1.8 meters in width,” she detailed.

Free-Moving Polychaete navigates dense colonies of Frenor Siboglinide.
CAS’s Institute of Deep Sea Science and Engineering

She expressed her amazement at the sights encountered at the trench’s bottom, viewed through the submarine’s 4.7-inch window.

“As I began my descent and eventually came to rest on the seabed, I was astonished by the multitude of life forms I witnessed,” she reflected.

While it was expected that life could persist at these depths, the sheer abundance of ecosystems was a pleasant surprise for the researchers.

The results “challenge existing models of life in extreme conditions” and indicate that such ecosystems may be more prevalent than previously recognized.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

How Invisible Cloaks Remove Us—At Least from AI

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Now you look at me…

en.photo/Alamy

The longing to vanish has intensified over the course of history. This desire eluded the protagonist in H.G. Wells’ Invisible Man, whose invisibility was permanent. What many desire, much like Harry Potter’s magical cloak, is the capacity to temporarily disappear.

In the early 21st century, metamaterials emerged, kindling hopes for clothing that could provide true invisibility. Despite the development of various cloaking technologies, the advanced engineering required made them scarce, extremely rapid but largely inaccessible. Rather than concealing from the naked eye, these innovations aimed to shield the wearer from a more pervasive foe: artificial intelligence, obscuring their identities from ever-watchful recognition systems.

Metamaterials are intricately patterned fabrics containing nanostructures or microstructures that alter the path of electromagnetic waves. When light meets a metamaterial, it flows around as water does around a stone, redirecting rather than absorbing or reflecting.

However, the challenge with metamaterials is their specificity to certain wavelengths. Early invisibility mechanisms, such as those theorized by John Pendry at Imperial College London in 2006, could hide objects only from microwave radiation. More sophisticated nanostructured materials were necessary to obscure visibility to shorter wavelengths, including visible light.

One innovative solution is Metalens, akin to traditional lenses in manipulating light, but flat and thin. By merging metamaterials with metalenses, scientists can create fabrics that render both objects and individuals behind them invisible. Nonetheless, the complexity of fabrication has kept this technology out of reach for mass production.

The breakthrough came in 2024 with the development of Self-appropriate Photochromism (SAP) — a technique similar to how octopuses and chameleons adjust their skin to match their surroundings. These materials feature molecules that change structure and color in response to light. “Chameleon clothing” became prevalent among field biologists seeking to observe wildlife discreetly and gained traction in military applications, as well as popularity among fashion designers.

Mainstream fashion in the 2030s has adopted a more profound political dimension than in previous decades.

By the early 2030s, SAP clothing merged with electronic devices enabling dynamic pattern manipulation, leading to a novel form of invisibility. This technological advancement led mainstream fashion to embrace a more pronounced political essence than in recent history.

In 2024, students from Uhan University in China designed InvisDefense, a fabric that renders the wearer invisible to AI-operated cameras. It employed specific patterns engineered to disrupt image recognition systems, ensuring that individuals donning InvisDefense were not identified as human by AI analysis.

While traditional InvisDefense patterns were static, innovations in dynamic SAP materials allowed for programmability, enabling color morphing and creating ever-changing, complex patterns. AI systems find it challenging to identify this “polymorphic clothing,” often misclassifying it as mere noise.

It’s no surprise that InvisDefense was devised in China, the country with the highest level of surveillance worldwide. (China boasts around 200 million camera systems. In comparison, the UK had roughly 7.5 million cameras while the US had about 50 million in the 2020s.) While CCTV can serve a protective function, it simultaneously fosters an environment of oppression and authoritarianism.

The next evolution in SAP technology introduced extremely thin, full-face polymorphic masks known as polymers, designed to be worn with everyday apparel. These masks mimic a person’s true appearance realistically, adapting fluidly with facial movements while completely altering the wearer’s actual identity.

Initially, governments sought to regulate access to polymers, though the relatively simple technology behind them made widespread adoption inevitable. While some individuals used polymasks for illicit activities, the majority sought to evade invasive advertising, racial profiling, and relentless observation in our contemporary society.

Rowan Hooper is the podcast editor for New Scientist and the author of How to Spend $1 Trillion. These are 10 global issues that can be effectively addressed. Follow him on Bluesky @rowhoop.bsky.social

Topics:

artificial intelligence/
technology

Source: www.newscientist.com

Jewelry that Tracks Movement? The Issue Lies in Unpredictability

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback brings the latest science and technology updates from New Scientist, covering cutting-edge developments. To share items that might captivate our readers, email Feedback@newscientist.com.

Ring of Power

Feedback often seeks the perfect gift for Mrs. Feedback, a challenging endeavor considering her penchant for ordering books before discovering they even exist.

This is why I found myself momentarily fascinated by what’s referred to as “smart jewelry.” Picture wearable tech like Fitbit or Apple Watch that tracks heart rates and more.

Recently, South China Morning Post noted: luxury brands such as Gucci, Hermès, Tag Heuer, and Vertu are merging Silicon Valley technology with exquisite European craftsmanship. For instance, there’s the Gucci×Ouura Ring, which elegantly incorporates health-monitoring tech to track sleep, heart rate, temperature, activity, and more. However, it’s a limited edition, with used items on eBay starting at £390 and going up from there.

Feedback might suggest that at least one method is misdirected. As blue sky user Zack Pizzaz highlighted on social media, wedding rings that monitor every emotion and movement of their wearers could very well belong in the realm of dystopian fiction—something reminiscent of a Margaret Atwood story. However, is there really a business proposing that couples exchange smart rings to keep tabs on each other?

Ah, perhaps it’s not a mistake; a company is indeed suggesting just that. Based on your relationship dynamics, you may or may not have heard of the dating app RAW, which encourages users to send only unfiltered photos to fend off catfishing. Now, they are launching a spinoff called Raw Ring, which features AI with a heart rate and temperature sensor, plus audio tracking.

According to co-founder Marina Anderson, the ring “functions like a fingertip vest, tracking heart rate, temperature, and connection levels with your partner. When something happens, you’re in the know.” As reported on her profile, she believes that such emotional surveillance could enrich relationships.

Or as the Raw Ring website boldly states, “Marriage will evolve, and so will loyalty. Sacred vows will become digital. Raw’s mission? To make true love traceable.”

We mentioned this to Mrs. Feedback, who firmly stated that purchasing one of these items would lead to divorce and leave you to seek comfort elsewhere—perhaps a book token will suffice.

Think Big

Here’s another headline, this time from the UK talk radio station LBC: ‘Green Party Deputy Leader Zack Polanski admitted to using hypnosis in the past to “enhance” women’s breasts. Apparently, back in 2013, Polanski worked at a hypnotherapy clinic in London where hypnosis was employed to assist women in acquiring larger breasts, as reported by the Sun under their sensational headlines: Tit-Notised. Polanski has since apologized for this portion of his career.

Aside from tackling the ethics of this practice, neuroscientist Dean Burnett expressed his intrigue on the matter, wondering if there are potential mechanisms within the psyche—akin to how drivers can’t help but be fascinated by accidents. After all, the link between mind and body is so profound that our mental state can influence our immune response and gut health. Burnett referenced cases such as pseudocyesis, where a woman genuinely believes she is pregnant, displaying symptoms without being so.

If you think Polanski might be onto something, think again. Burnett points out that this reasoning is a prime example of “how easy it is to construct a compelling claim through selective cherry-picking of data.” He continues to explain that hypnosis is not powerful enough to serve as a reliable method for breast augmentation.

Additionally, if hypnosis were genuinely so effective, wouldn’t women with new breasts also produce milk?

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On the theme of dubious correlations (as discussed in Feedback, July 5th), Martin Kautchmann has spotlighted Tyler Bigen’s entertaining site, tylervigen.com/spurious-correlations, which catalogues correlations that lack real significance. For instance, UFO sightings in Rhode Island correlate beautifully with the success rates of climbing Mount Everest, while Iowa City’s air quality saw a decrease in lockstep with the number of library technicians.

Such correlations may seem absurd, but they can be amusing. Barry Dexter recalls a statement he used in his teaching: “All heroin addicts started with milk.”

Lastly, Dan Salmons shares his experience working with a “well-known credit card company” during the introduction of Chip and Pin technology, stating, “I demonstrated to my colleagues that the quantity of cards in circulation correlated strongly with the prices of potatoes and steel,” says Dan. “Naturally, this is precisely what one would anticipate.”

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You can send your stories to feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week and earlier feedback is available on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

We Assert That CO2 Emissions Are Not Detrimental—Climate Science Confirms This.

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin at the agency’s headquarters.

Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images

The Trump administration seeks to undermine the U.S. government’s capacity to regulate greenhouse gas emissions by asserting that these gases don’t pose a threat to public health. This initiative fits into a broader effort to loosen restrictions on power plants and vehicles by claiming that regulations hinder economic growth. However, this legal stance appears flimsy when juxtaposed with the extensive body of climate science demonstrating that increased greenhouse gas levels present a significant danger.

“This debate is nonsensical and lacks validity,” he remarks. David Doniger, part of the Natural Resources Defense Council, advocates for revisions from the administration.

The legal arguments hinge on a 2009 ruling by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which concluded that greenhouse gas emissions from American power plants and vehicles indeed pose risks to human health. This “endangerment finding” grants regulatory authority to agencies overseeing these emissions. Subsequently, regulations have been implemented, enhancing fuel efficiency in vehicles and contributing to the previous administration’s initiatives aimed at minimizing emissions from power plants.

On July 29, EPA administrator Zeldin announced efforts to abolish these endangerment findings, dubbing it “the largest deregulation effort in U.S. history.” However, before this change occurs, the agency is required to publicly justify its decision and defend it against an impending lawsuit.

In a draft of the new regulations, the EPA asserts that the increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere do not present a sufficient threat to justify emission reductions. This position contradicts key conclusions from climate science organizations such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, several U.S. national climate assessments, and even the EPA itself in 2009, which identified evidence that greenhouse gases pose a “strong and clear” risk.

“I think they’re throwing every possible argument out there to see what resonates,” Doniger comments. “They are recycling both old and new theories, all of which are quite weak.”

According to a 2018 study, evidence indicating risks associated with greenhouse gases has only intensified over recent decades. This reassessment of the decade-old endangerment rationale indicates advancements in climate science provide clearer tools to evaluate how climate change affects specific extreme weather events. Additionally, specific greenhouse gas emissions can be directly tied to damage from various extreme temperature occurrences.

To challenge this consensus, the EPA heavily leans on preliminary findings. A report released by the Department of Energy and authored by five well-known skeptics of mainstream climate science acknowledges that carbon dioxide contributes to global warming. However, it questions the extent of this damage in the U.S. and discusses the positive effects of CO2 on plant growth, including its use as a fertilizer.

While some aspects of this report may reflect truths corroborated by climate science, other researchers contend that its flawed methodology fails to consider significant evidence that contradicts its overall conclusions. While CO2 may indeed promote plant growth, rising temperatures are anticipated to have a far more detrimental impact on agriculture and ecosystems.

“They selectively sift through data to find examples supporting their narrative while systematically ignoring far more substantial evidence that discredits it,” states Andrew Dessler of Texas A&M University.

“I’m somewhat astonished that the government has released a document like this as an official publication,” adds Zeke Hausfather from Berkeley Earth, a nonprofit research organization in California. “It resembles a blog post—an unorganized assortment of cherry-picked instances that fail to represent the broader, frequently criticized claims made by skeptics or the findings from extensive climate science research.”

Hausfather, who has been referenced multiple times in the DOE report, criticizes it as lacking peer review. He contrasts its production—drafted by a small team over several months—with the National Climate Assessment, a comprehensive effort involving hundreds of contributors over several years that was ultimately rejected by the Trump administration.

“The idea that these emissions incur no social costs is a thoroughly incorrect and exhausting argument,” argues Justin Mankin from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Reflecting on the extreme conditions associated with the warmest year on record in 2025, he emphasizes the stark reality: “What’s strikingly evident is that the repercussions of global warming are far greater than we understood in 2009.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The E. coli Genome Redesigned with 101,000 DNA Modifications

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

E. coli can lead to serious illnesses, yet is frequently utilized in pharmaceutical development.

Victor Habbick Visions/Science Photo Library

Unlike the natural evolution of life forms, our ability to create life has reached new heights. The genome of an E. coli bacterium has been meticulously redesigned via computer simulations, utilizing just 57 out of the 64 genetic codons. This synthetic genome was built from the ground up and introduced into living bacterial cells.

“This was a massive undertaking,” states Wesley Robertson from the Institute of Medical Research in Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK.

The objective was to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, with the 57 codons, termed Syn57, offering commercial applications. Future modifications could enable Syn57 to develop complete resistance to viral infections, a significant benefit for the industrial production of proteins used in pharmaceuticals, food, or cosmetics. Since viral proteins depend on their hosts to produce, altering the genetic code can lead to erroneous viral proteins.

Moreover, additional modifications permit Syn57 to synthesize proteins containing up to 27 amino acids, whereas natural proteins are limited to 20. These synthetic proteins hold potential for functions unattainable with conventional proteins.

A protein is essentially a sequence of amino acids arranged in a specified order determined by a gene. Each triplet of DNA bases, known as a codon, instructs the synthesis machinery on when to add the next amino acid or when to cease the protein assembly.

There are four DNA bases that combine to produce 64 distinct codons. However, organisms on Earth typically utilize only 20 amino acids, leading to considerable redundancy, with multiple codons corresponding to each amino acid.

If all instances of a specific codon for an amino acid were substituted with another codon for the same amino acid, that original codon could then be repurposed. For instance, it could code for non-natural amino acids or alternative chemicals, facilitating the creation of novel protein types.

Theoretically, only 21 unique codons are required, allowing for a biological organism to free up to 43 codons—one for each natural amino acid and one stop codon. However, this is not yet feasible, as increasing genetic alterations raises the likelihood of harmful unintended consequences.

Instead, biologists are taking a more measured approach. In 2011, an edit of 314 genes in E. coli aimed to free one codon.

Because executing thousands of genetic edits is so labor-intensive, Robertson and his team opted to synthesize the DNA from scratch. In 2019, they introduced Syn61, incorporating 18,000 changes across 4 million DNA bases, achieving the release of three codons in the E. coli genome. A derivative company named Constructive.Bio is working on commercial applications.

Currently, researchers are implementing 101,000 modifications to release seven codons within Syn57. This process necessitated testing small sections of the reconstructed genome on live bacterial cultures to identify and rectify harmful changes. This complex procedure was repeated with progressively larger genome fragments until the entire structure was reassembled.

“This marks a significant achievement, resulting from years of effort,” mentions Akos Nyerges at Harvard Medical School. Nyerges’ team is also working to release seven codons in E. coli via different codon reproductions. “Our journey with the 57 codons in E. coli is ongoing,” he adds.

While Syn57 is already fully established, its growth rate is significantly slower than that of typical strains. Enhancements in this aspect are essential for commercial viability. “We anticipate being able to improve the growth rates, making it more beneficial,” remarks Robertson.

For the time being, his focus will be on investigating the potential applications of Syn57 rather than attempting further codon releases. “There’s still a great deal to accomplish before contemplating even more compressed genetic codes,” he concludes.

The first synthetic genome bacteria were created in 2010, but their design aimed more at simplifying organisms than at codon recovery.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Breakdown of Protein Production May Contribute to Brain Aging

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ribosome (center) responsible for synthesizing protein (red) from mRNA. Dark purple strands illustrate transfer RNAs involved in protein production.

The underlying factors contributing to cellular senescence may have been uncovered, revealing insights into various aging processes at the cellular level.

Studies on the brains of a type of freshwater fish known as Killifish reveal that as these fish age, their internal protein factories begin to malfunction, leading to critical protein classes being synthesized abnormally and creating a damaging feedback loop.

This revelation could pave the path for innovative approaches to addressing cognitive decline in aging; Alessandro Cellerino from the Leibniz Institute on Aging in Germany states, “Our focus is more on enhancing cognitive function and preventing cognitive impairment, rather than merely extending life span.”

Within cells, the templates for protein synthesis are encoded in DNA. When proteins are required, these instructions are transcribed into mRNA molecules.

This mRNA is then processed and transported to ribosomes, the cellular factories responsible for protein assembly. Ribosomes attach to and traverse mRNA strands, interpreting the three-letter codons and translating them into amino acid sequences, ultimately forming proteins.

Typically, a greater quantity of mRNA leads to increased protein synthesis. However, numerous studies indicate that this relationship falters in aging human cells, suggesting that protein output may diminish even if mRNA levels remain unchanged.

Through their investigation of aging ribosomes in the brains of Killifish, Cellerino and his team may have identified the cause of this phenomenon. Employing advanced imaging techniques, the researchers captured dynamic movements of ribosomes on constrained mRNA.

The findings revealed that, as the Killifish brain aged, an unexpected buildup of ribosomes occurred, particularly at codons for the amino acids arginine and lysine, leading to stalled ribosome activity and incomplete protein synthesis.

Arginine and lysine are crucial for numerous biomolecules associated with DNA and RNA, and their charged nature suggests that these stallings could significantly disrupt RNA and DNA-binding proteins.

These protein malfunctions pose a serious issue, as they are integral to crucial cellular processes such as RNA synthesis, splicing, and DNA repair.

“Aging is associated with increased DNA damage, reduced RNA production, decreased splicing efficiency, and diminished protein synthesis,” explains Cellerino. “We propose that this ribosome stalling binds these diverse senescence phenomena together.”

Moreover, Cellerino notes that ribosomes themselves harbor RNA-binding proteins, creating a detrimental cycle of stalling that further reduces ribosome availability and, accordingly, protein production.

The pressing question remains whether ribosomal stalling is also present in the human brain. Recent work by Jean Yeo at UC San Diego indicates that RNA-binding proteins diminish in aging human neurons, echoing Cellerino’s findings, although the underlying causes are still uncertain. “This change in RNA-binding proteins could explain their declining levels,” Yeo states.

If these observations hold true for humans, it could herald new strategies for treating age-associated cognitive disorders. Additionally, in Killifish, ribosomal stalling triggers stress signals that instigate inflammatory responses. “The persistent activation of this pathway leads to chronic inflammation,” warns Cellerino. “Chronic inflammation is a significant factor in brain aging.”

Experimental drugs that may mitigate this condition by blocking the associated signaling pathways are on the horizon, according to Cellerino.

“However, it is premature to draw definitive conclusions regarding their potential impact on longevity,” he cautions. This uncertainty arises from the lack of understanding regarding the initiation of ribosomal stalling at specific amino acids, as well as whether the same stalling mechanism exists across all organs.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Kamchatka Earthquake Response Demonstrates Enhanced Tsunami Warning System

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The coastline of Shiogama, Japan, where a tsunami warning was issued following a significant earthquake

Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images

On July 29, a strong earthquake struck near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting a quick tsunami warning that allowed millions to evacuate safely. Although no unexpected waves materialized, the swift response demonstrates the progress made in tsunami science since the devastating tsunamis in 2004 and 2011, which cost tens of thousands of lives.

“This is an excellent accomplishment built on lessons learned from previous incidents,” said Ravindra Jayaratne, a researcher at the University of East London, UK.

The efficiency of the warning system can be attributed to an enhanced network of tsunami detection sensors. This includes seismometers that detect earthquake tremors and a series of buoys managed by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which assess wave heights and relay crucial information to satellites. Improved modeling techniques enable researchers at the Tsunami Warning Office to swiftly predict and disseminate alerts about wave impact locations and times.

On the day of the event, tsunami offices across the Pacific region were able to issue alerts almost immediately after the 8.8 magnitude earthquake was detected—recorded as the strongest ever. In Japan, approximately 2 million individuals evacuated from coastal regions, with others doing the same in Hawaii and even in Chile, located just south of the US west coast.

“The reaction was prompt and effective,” noted David Tappin from the British Geological Survey. He added, however, that despite the earthquake’s intensity, it resulted in minimal wave activity and flooding, highlighting the need for improved predictive capabilities regarding flood events based on early detection of tremors and wave conditions.

Jayaratne also pointed out that regions prone to tsunamis, such as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, lack a robust warning system and adequate public awareness of potential risks. “History shows that advanced detection technologies are only useful when accompanied by effective public communication and comprehensive evacuation strategies,” he said. “Coastal communities must conduct drills regularly to enhance public awareness and ensure warnings reach those in need through various channels.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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