The Top New Science Fiction Book of July 2025: A Cultural Editor’s Choice of the Year

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Hal Lacroix’s adventure unfolds on a spacecraft that has been exploring new planets for centuries

Dotted Zebra/Alamy

Exciting science fiction awaits fans this July, with two highly anticipated books making their debut. Are you intrigued by the beautifully articulated vision of rapid transformation as its effects evolve in a subtle yet increasingly unsettling manner? Don’t miss Alex Foster’s Circular Motion. Or maybe you’re captivated by the excellent “generation ship” narrative? If so, keep an eye on Hal Lacroix’s Here and Beyond. In addition, there are tales of climate fiction, zombies, space romance, and more. Enjoy yourself – I certainly will!

Set in a near future, this striking debut novel envisions an Earth with a colossal aircraft in orbit. Meanwhile, the Earth’s rotation gradually accelerates, initially shortening by mere seconds. However, it ominously contracts to just two hours as the story unfolds, leading to dire consequences. I’ve just completed this novel, and it may very well be my top read of the year so far—smartly written and truly engaging.

I have a special fondness for compelling “generation ship” stories. This one stands out, as 600 people embark on a 360-year voyage to a new planet following Earth’s downfall. Yet, generations must survive aboard their vessel, Shipworld, facing challenges from illness to rebellion, raising tensions among the crew. But don’t take my word for it; our sci-fi reviewer, Emily H. Wilson, gave it a hearty thumbs up, and her taste is impeccable (or at least aligns with mine!).

While I pen these words, London is engulfed in flames, making Susanna Kwan’s dystopian depiction of a rain-soaked future San Francisco even more captivating. We follow Bo, who has fled a city ravaged by catastrophic floods. Living alone on a street transformed into a river, Bo is tempted to leave her boat until her elderly neighbor Mia requests assistance, prompting her to remain. This novel draws comparisons to Emily St. John Mandel’s literary dystopia Station Eleven and Eleanor Catton’s climatological thriller Bilnum Wood, both of which I cherished; thus, I’m eager to delve into Kwan’s rainy world.

Susanna Kwan’s awakening unfolds in a flooded future San Francisco

Bulgac/Getty Images

This month’s science fiction takes us from Earth in disarray to the rain-soaked where the sun is waning. A unique story features two sisters in a small village amid arid lands who struggle for survival as temperatures plummet, leading villagers to confront death—”an ordinary man replaced by a blinding light that sears his head like a miniature sands.” Fascinating!

Another tale revolves around Quetza, an acrobat in a Martian circus who stumbles upon “ominous secrets.” Millions of years later, Azad inhabits a desert planet, teaming up with a space travel historian to discover why their ancestors abandoned Mars.

This climate fiction narrative (I refuse to adopt the “CLI-FI” label as I find it unappealing) unfolds in a self-sustaining community established on a remote Welsh island in 2056, aimed at escaping a tyrannical government. But 13-year-old Gresni suspects her family harbors secrets, especially when an event from the mainland washes ashore.

Penned by the acclaimed publisher recognized for Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, Tomorrow and Tomorrow, the narrative follows Zoe and Jack, who meet as chemistry students at Harvard University. Two years later, they drop out to join a venture promising longevity, yet their love faces challenges that test its limits.

I confess that this may not fit traditional science fiction norms, but I’m finding it hard to resist: it’s a 2022 road trip story set in Ukraine, featuring “The Maverick Scientist” Yeva and Lefty, “The Only Snail” navigated to ensure the survival of his species. Yeva funds her passion for breeding rare snails by dating men who come to Ukraine for a “guidance romance tour” in search of obedient brides. “Glorious…funny and clever, filled with science, longing, and adventure,” Anne Puckett states. Therefore, I believe a blend of science and snails would surely captivate sci-fi enthusiasts.

As a passionate fan, I feel there’s a distinct lack of zombie novels like The Walking Dead. Fortunately, Lee Radford addresses this gap with a tale about a scientist whose spouse was the last person bitten by the zombie epidemic. While the government quarantines infected individuals, scientist Kesta harbors perilous secrets. Her zombie husband, Tim, is restrained to prevent his rampage. Rick Grimes, I’m just suggesting he could have handled Tim with a heartbeat…

I’ve earmarked this next book for my reading list and am eagerly anticipating it. Elric only awakens once he’s healed, envisioning an experimental treatment center where heartache can be anesthetized. Naturally, there are some “shadow side effects,” and it follows four strangers (and a dog). The Wizard of Oz certainly seems to embody the journey toward healing from heartache.

The publisher describes it as “Suffic’s action-adventure sci-fi novel.” Volatile Memory features Willa as she uncovers cutting-edge technology on nearby planets. This tech, however, turns out to be the remains of a woman donning an AI mask that resurrected her. Together, they seek to unravel its mysteries…

Emily Buchanan’s Send Flowers depicts a woman’s deceased boyfriend reborn as a houseplant

Ozgurcankaya/Getty Images

In a world nearing climate collapse, eco-influencer Fiona has stayed secluded in her apartment since her boyfriend Ed’s passing. One day, his favorite plant is left at her door, prompting her to sprinkle his ashes on the soil. The next morning, she discovers that the plant not only blooms but can also speak. Ed has returned—albeit as a house plant.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Micrometric Protocells and Self-Organization: Insights into the Origin of Life

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Protocells are membrane-bound spheres formed from fatty molecules, thought to be similar to early living cell precursors.

Henning Dalhof/Science Photography Library

Structures similar to those enveloping living cells have demonstrated the ability to self-assemble in micrometeorites, hinting that dust across planets might contribute to life’s origins.

“If we can establish that protocells arise from micrometeorites here on Earth, it’s evident this could occur on other habitable planets,” states Irepgözen from Gomod, a Swedish research and education organization. “This brings me immense excitement.”

Various lipid molecules can spontaneously create membrane-bound spheres, referred to as protocells, as they resemble potential precursors to living cells. While this process can happen in solutions, Gözen is investigating methods to facilitate protocell formation on surfaces that typically do not foster such reactions.

Surfaces possess intrinsic energy, with exposed atoms lacking complete bonds, making them suitable for this transformation. “Creating a surface generates excess energy that seeks to be released,” she observes.

After recently analyzing Martian metstones, Gözen noted that their rough, grainy textures may enhance protocell formation. Consequently, she and her team introduced three types of micrometeorites into lipid suspensions. Post an overnight incubation, microscopic examination revealed the formation of protocells, especially in samples with lipids similar to those found in Archaea membranes.

Hundreds of micrometeorites exist, according to Gözen, and this study serves as an initial proof of concept. While the findings do not confirm the origin of the first living cells, Gözen finds the results intriguing, considering that simple organic compounds frequently appear in meteorites, and micrometeorites are probably widespread on planetary surfaces. “There’s a tiny nuclear reactor carrying intriguing prebiotic organic matter,” she remarks. “They’re falling on nearly every planet, all contained within one particle.”

“I find it exhilarating that micrometeorites possess sufficient surface energy to facilitate their [protocell] formation,” says Anna Wang from the University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. “I wasn’t trained in physics.”

Gözen emphasizes that protocells formed on surfaces exhibit remarkable characteristics. “There’s a significant difference between reactions occurring on surfaces and in solutions,” she explains. “They establish a network of intriguing protocells interconnected by minute nanotubes, enabling content transfer. This allows for a very basic form of signaling.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Great Multivitamin Myth: How Pills Can Harm Your Immune System

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The immune system is intricate, consisting of a vast network of cells, proteins, and organs that serve as the body’s primary defense against infections. Given its vital role, it’s essential to maintain its health.

So, how can you achieve that? Similar to other crucial bodily functions, numerous supplements and products claim to enhance your immune system’s performance. However, the reality is that your body may not require these so-called enhancements. In fact, it often functions best when left to its natural processes.

Misconceptions About Immune Boosting

The idea of vitamins that “boost” immunity can be quite misleading. In theory, the immune system is self-sufficient and operates optimally if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover, “boosting” the immune system is a somewhat ambiguous notion. Simply increasing the quantity of immune cells or similar components in your body may not be beneficial and could potentially be harmful.

Consider your immune system as a finely tuned machine, operating at peak efficiency as long as it receives proper maintenance. Attempts to push this machine into overdrive may lead to overheating or malfunction.

The same principle applies to the immune system; an overstimulated immune response can inadvertently attack healthy cells, resulting in autoimmune disorders.

“The immune system can typically maintain its own balance. As long as you adhere to a relatively healthy lifestyle, no additional enhancement is necessary,” stated Dr. Bobby Cherayil, author of The Logic of Immunity, in an episode of BBC Science Focus.

“This includes a nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful practices such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.”

Though a decline in lifestyle can affect our immune system, this deterioration is gradual, often requiring severe circumstances for visible infection to occur.

“A diet lacking essential nutrients or severe vitamin deficiencies can negatively impact your immune system, but such deficiencies are generally quite extreme.”

Risks Associated with Vitamin Supplements

If you maintain a healthy lifestyle—eating well, sleeping adequately, and exercising regularly—what risk is there in taking supplements aimed at enhancing your immune system?

Often, the risks are minimal, with the primary concern being the lack of effectiveness. The body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamins, and excess amounts typically pass through the body and are expelled in urine.

This applies mainly to water-soluble vitamins; however, vitamins A, D, E, and K do not leave the system so easily, and an excess can lead to toxicity. For instance, too much vitamin D can cause nausea, weakness, and may ultimately lead to bone and kidney pain if left untreated.

Many immune-boosting supplements are categorized as “multivitamins,” which encompass various vitamins and minerals in a single tablet or capsule.

A significant study associated multivitamins with a high rate of placebo effects. Research indicates no significant health statistics difference from a control group.

Clinical trials revealed no notable variation in mental or physical health outcomes between those taking multivitamins and those who were not. However, individuals consuming multivitamins often believe these products contribute positively to their health.

The danger is that individuals might assume multivitamins can substitute for other health-boosting practices, leading to neglect in other health areas such as maintaining a balanced diet.

Long-term effects of excessive vitamin intake remain less understood, with some studies suggesting a connection between multivitamin use and increased risk of cancer, heart failure, or cardiovascular issues.

Research indicates risk may increase with age. A study from the University of Minnesota found that among over 38,000 women aged 62 and older, those taking supplements had a 2.4% higher mortality risk.

This area of research continues to evolve, and not all studies reach such dire conclusions. For instance, another study found no significant correlation between multivitamin use and overall mortality rates.

Vitamins Have Their Place…for Some

For many, a healthy lifestyle is all that’s needed to keep the immune system in optimal condition. However, there are individuals with significant vitamin deficiencies that require attention.

Globally, over 2 billion people lack essential vitamins, and certain demographic groups may require additional support.

Vitamin supplements can be beneficial, particularly for older adults who struggle with chewing or swallowing. This is also true for pregnant individuals or those with digestive issues (always consult a healthcare professional).

Ultimately, the immune system remains a highly advanced, self-regulating entity. For the average person, it functions effectively on its own. Immune-boosting supplements may not pose significant risks, but they often result in “expensive urine.”

About Our Expert, Bobby Cherayil

Cherayil is an associate professor of Pediatrics at Harvard University and author of The Logic of Immunity. His research focuses on the immune system and its response to infection and inflammation.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Geoscientists Discover Pulsating Mantle Plume Beneath Remote Area of Ethiopia

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

According to a study led by researchers at the University of Southampton, these pulses are gradually tearing apart the African continent, resulting in the formation of a new sea basin.

Variation of geochemical and geophysical properties around distant triangles. Image credit: Watts et al, doi: 10.1038/s41561-025-01717-0.

The AFAR region stands out as a unique site on Earth where three structural lifts converge: the main Ethiopian rifts, the Red Sea rifts, and the Gulf of Aden lifts.

Geologists have speculated for some time that a thermal upwelling from the mantle, commonly referred to as plumes, exists beneath this area and promotes the extension of the crust along with the formation of upcoming sea basins.

However, the details regarding the structure of this upwelling and its behavior beneath the lifting plate have remained largely unknown until now.

“Our findings indicate that the mantle below the region is uniform but not stationary; it exhibits a pulsing nature that carries a unique chemical signature,” explained Dr. Emma Watts, who led the study at the University of Southampton and is currently at Swansea University.

“These rising pulses from the partially melted mantle are directed by the overlying filling plate.”

“This insight is crucial for understanding the interaction between the Earth’s interior and its surface.”

Dr. Watts and her team collected over 130 volcanic rock samples from remote areas and significant Ethiopian rifts.

Additionally, they utilized existing data and sophisticated statistical modeling to examine the structure of the crust and mantle, along with the melts within.

Their research reveals a single asymmetric plume beneath the distant region, showcasing distinct chemical bands that recur throughout the lift system, akin to geological barcodes.

These patterns vary in spacing according to the structural conditions of each lift arm.

“The observed chemical stripes imply that the plume pulsates like a heartbeat,” remarked Professor Tom Gernon from the University of Southampton.

“These pulses seem to behave differently based on the thickness of the plate and the rate at which it is pulled apart.”

“In faster-spreading rifts like the Red Sea, the pulsation occurs more efficiently and regularly, similar to a pulse flowing through a narrow artery.”

The findings illustrate that the mantle plume beneath the distant region is dynamic, reacting to the tectonic plate above it.

Dr. Derek Kiel, a researcher at the University of Southampton and the University of Florence, stated:

“This has significant implications for interpreting processes related to surface volcanism, seismic activity, and continental splitting.”

“Our work indicates that deep mantle upwellings flow beneath the tectonic plate, concentrating volcanic activity in the thinnest areas.”

“Understanding the rate and manner of mantle flow beneath the plate is crucial for further research.”

“Collaborating with experts from various fields within the institution, as we did for this project, is vital for uncovering the processes that occur beneath the Earth’s surface and their link to recent volcanic activity,” Dr. Watts emphasized.

“It’s challenging to see the broader picture, akin to assembling a puzzle without all the pieces unless we employ diverse techniques.”

study published in the journal Natural Earth Science.

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ej watts et al. Mantle upwelling at an afor triple junction influenced by the dynamics of the overriding plate. Nat. Geosci Published online on June 25, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41561-025-01717-0

Source: www.sci.news

Researchers Explore the Potential of Ambroxol in Slowing Parkinson’s-Related Dementia

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ambroxol, a cough medication, is authorized in Europe for treating respiratory issues and boasts a long history of safety, including its use in high doses and during pregnancy, but it has not been approved in the US or Canada.

Ball and stick model of ambroxol molecules. Image credit: Marina Vladivostok/Chemspider.

Dementia in individuals with Parkinson’s disease can lead to memory loss, confusion, hallucinations, and mood changes.

About half of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease will develop dementia within a decade, significantly affecting patients, families, and healthcare systems.

“Our objective was to alter the trajectory of Parkinson’s dementia,” stated Dr. Steven Pasternack, a cognitive neurologist at the Parkwood Institute, St. Joseph’s Healthcare London, and the Robert Institute.

“This preliminary trial offers hope and establishes a robust basis for further research.”

The 12-month clinical trial involved 55 participants suffering from dementia related to Parkinson’s disease.

One group received daily ambroxol, while the other was administered a placebo.

They assessed memory, psychiatric symptoms, and GFAP, markers linked to brain damage in the blood.

The research team noted that ambroxol is safe, well-tolerated, and effectively penetrated the brain.

The placebo group exhibited worsening psychiatric symptoms, while those taking ambroxol remained stable.

Participants with GBA1 genetic mutations showed enhanced cognitive performance with ambroxol treatment.

GFAP levels rose in the placebo group but stayed stable in those using ambroxol, indicating potential brain protection.

“Existing treatments for Parkinson’s disease and dementia focus on symptoms without addressing the root cause,” Dr. Pasternack explained.

“These findings imply that brain function at genetic risk may be preserved, marking a promising new treatment avenue that is currently limited.”

Ambroxol aids an essential enzyme known as Glucocerebrosidase (GCase) linked to the GBA1 gene.

In patients with Parkinson’s disease, GCase levels are frequently reduced. If this enzyme malfunctions, waste builds up in brain cells, resulting in damage.

“This research is crucial as dementia in Parkinson’s disease significantly impacts patients and their families,” remarked Dr. Pasternack.

“If a medication like ambroxol proves beneficial, it can offer true hope and enhance quality of life.”

The results will be published in the journal Jama Neurology.

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Carolina La Silveilla et al. Ambroxol as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease dementia: a randomized clinical trial. Jama Neurology Published online on June 30th, 2025. doi:10.1001/jamaneurol.2025.1687

Source: www.sci.news

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome May Be Inherited Through Chemical Modifications of DNA

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of enlarged ovaries in an individual with polycystic ovary syndrome

Science Photo Library/Alamy

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may be transmitted through families via chemical markers that modify DNA structure, implying that medications that adjust these markers in embryos could potentially prevent the disorder.

Individuals with PCOS usually display at least two of the following three key traits: elevated levels of male hormones like testosterone, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of immature eggs that resemble cysts in the ovaries.

While this condition frequently runs in families, its inheritance pattern remains unclear. “Around 25-30 genetic mutations are associated with PCOS, but they only account for a minor part of the hereditary aspects,” explains Elisabet Stener-Victorin from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.

Research on mice indicates that variations in epigenetic marks (chemical tags that regulate gene activity without changing DNA sequences) may also be influential. As eggs develop, most of these marks are believed to be erased, but some may persist as a possible means of inheritance.

To investigate this in relation to human PCOS, Qianshu Zhu from China’s Chungin Medical University and colleagues conducted an analysis of the epigenetic markers in eggs and embryos donated 3 days prior, revealing data from 133 and 95 PCOS donors respectively. “No one has truly explored this with human samples,” states Stener-Victorin.

The study revealed a correlation between PCOS donation and altered patterns in three epigenetic marks in eggs and embryos. Two of these marks contribute to silencing genes and helping to package them within cells, resulting in a tighter DNA coil around a protein called histone, rendering the genetic code less accessible for RNA transcription, a crucial step in protein synthesis. Meanwhile, the third type of mark activates genes by loosening the DNA coil.

Together, the epigenetic modifications related to PCOS could potentially affect the metabolic processes of eggs and embryos, thereby elevating the chances of passing on PCOS to the next generation. Nevertheless, more research is essential to understand how these changes influence PCOS symptoms in offspring, both in mice and humans, as noted by Stener-Victorin. “At this stage, I recognize these marks differ, and that doesn’t inherently mean they are harmful,” she remarks.

Additional experiments suggest that the researchers may employ medications to reverse epigenetic alterations, potentially mitigating the risk of PCOS. “If we observe that modifying these histone marks changes the next-generation characteristics of PCOS, it could present a critical prevention target,” Zhu stated in a press release. Furthermore, the team posits that clinicians might utilize PCOS-related epigenetic markers to choose the healthiest embryos during in vitro fertilization procedures.

Zhu presented these findings at the European Breeding Association’s Annual Meeting held in Paris on July 1st.

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Epigenetics/
Women’s health

Source: www.newscientist.com

New Permian Herbivore Species Discovered in China

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new genus and species of medium-sized Paleasaurus, identified from two fossilized specimens found in China in 2018.

Artist Reconstruction Yinshanosaurus angustus. Image credit: X.-C. Guo, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleontology.

The newly recognized species, Yinshanosaurus angustus, existed during the latest Permian period, around 259 to 254 million years ago.

These ancient creatures were part of Paleiasauria, a distinct group of herbivorous tetrapods that thrived across the Supercontinent Pangaea during the Middle Permian.

“Pareiasauria was a bizarre quadrupedal herbivorous clade present during the Guadalpian and Ropingian epochs, significantly impacted by both the late Capitanian and Permian mass extinction events,” stated the Chongqing Institute of Paleontology.

“Fossils of Pareiasauria have been discovered globally, spanning Africa, Europe, Asia, and South America.”

“Pareiasaurus served as a primary herbivorous consumer within various terrestrial tetrapod faunas, including those from the late Permian in northern China.”

“Since the 1960s, eight species of Chinese Paleasaurus have been documented.”

Two significant specimens—a partial post-skull skeleton with a nearly complete skull and another partial skeleton—were excavated in China in 2018.

“The first specimen was found in a dark purple siltstone layer of the Sunjiagou Formation, near Zhangjiage Tuo Village in Bird County, Shanghai,” reported the paleontologist.

“The second specimen was located in purple silty mudstone at the upper section of Member I of the Naobaogou Formation near Qiandian Village in the Siguai district of Baotou, Inner Mongolia.”

According to the researchers, Yinshanosaurus angustus features the narrowest skull of all Pareiasaurus species, with a length over twice its width at the lateral edge of the cheek.

“With the skeleton of Yinshanosaurus angustus, we present the complete skull and detailed post-cranial structure of this Chinese Pareiasaurus for the first time,” they emphasized.

Their study was published this month in the journal Paleontology Papers.

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Jian Yi & Jun Liu. 2025. Tetrapod fauna of the Upper Permian Naobagou Formation in China: A new medium-sized Pareiasaurus Yinshanosaurus angustus and its implications for the phylogenetic relationship of Pareiasaurus. Paleontology Papers 11(3): E70020; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70020

Source: www.sci.news

Netflix Aims for the Stars with Exciting New NASA Collaboration

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Netflix is aiming for the stars.

The streaming giant announced on Monday that it will stream a live launch to subscribers’ homes later this summer, declaring, “we can partner with NASA to bring space a little closer to home.”

This initiative further propels Netflix into the realm of live streaming content, which has already seen success. On Christmas Day, millions tuned in for live coverage of NFL games and a halftime concert featuring Beyoncé. Despite some video quality challenges, November’s boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul reached 60 million households on Netflix. The platform also ventured into talk show territory this year with “Live with John Mulaney.”

Netflix asserts, “The next giant leap for humanity might just begin with pressing play,” according to its editorial site, Tudum.

NASA+ was launched in 2023 to make space content more accessible to the public; however, much of it is already available for free on the NASA app at NASA.GOV. The space agency hopes to leverage Netflix’s extensive subscriber base of over 700 million to boost interest in space exploration.

“Viewers will soon have another option to stream rocket launches, astronaut missions, and stunning live views of Earth from the International Space Station,” the agency stated in a news release.

The aim, as per a NASA announcement, is to “immerse people in the excitement of discovery, innovation, and space exploration, no matter where they are.”

“The 1958 National Aeronautics and Space Act mandates sharing stories of space exploration with the broadest audience possible,” said Rebecca Silmons, general manager of NASA+ at the agency’s Washington D.C. headquarters. “Together, we are dedicated to inspiring a new generation—ushering in a golden age of innovation and exploration, all from the comfort of home and the convenience of a smartphone.”

Netflix is capitalizing on the growing interest in space. According to NBC News, 2025 has been a landmark year for space exploration already. In April, pop artist Katy Perry and five other celebrities embarked on a short journey into space aboard Blue Origin’s new Shepherd Rocket.

Per Tudum, NASA+ Live Feeds will be featured as part of the series on the Netflix platform, with a detailed schedule anticipated to be released as the launch date approaches.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

What Does Orca Mean When They Want to Share Lunch with You?

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

ORCA Shares Prey with Researchers

Orca Research Trust

Instances have been observed where orcas appear to offer dead prey to humans.

Jared Tower, from the marine research organization Bay Cetology, was filming orca pods (Orcinus orca) as they feasted on seabirds in Alert Bay, Canada, when he witnessed a fascinating incident. Two whales, named Akela and Quiver, approached a camera tower with birds held tightly in their mouths. Akela, the younger female, dropped a dead bird in front of the tower and lingered nearby, seemingly curious about the human presence. Quiver followed suit, dropping his bird and waiting as well.

In an unexpected turn, both whales reclaimed their prey and swam back to the tower. “I remember thinking, did that really just happen?” Towers recalls. This wasn’t the first instance of such behavior; similar actions were noted in 2015 and 2018, when a young female orca presented a researcher with a Harbor Seal pup, showcasing a killer whale’s desire to share its catch with humans.

Through interviews, Tower uncovered another 32 similar cases between 2004 and 2024. One notable account involved a young male orca from New Zealand, known as Funky Monkey, who repeatedly approached researchers while carrying a long-tailed stingray. In total, 18 different prey species were identified in these instances, including gray whales, seals, jellyfish, birds, otters, rays, turtles, and others.

This behavior has been previously recorded within orca pods. “They exist in a deeply interconnected social structure and share their prey amongst one another,” noted Towers.

However, it appears this behavior extends beyond their own kind. “They engage in actions that not only benefit themselves but also foster goodwill towards another species,” explains Lori Marino from New York University, who was not affiliated with this research.

Tower suggests that such actions indicate the potential for general altruism, or kindness, among killer whales. They demonstrate curiosity and the boldness to engage with other species, he asserts.

This propensity for generalized altruism makes sense in a social structure where collaboration is key for survival. Moreover, killer whales are among the few marine predators capable of overwhelming their prey at times. “They can opt to leave it behind, play with it, or use it as a means to explore inter-species relationships,” Towers explained.

For many killer whales, adaptability as generalist predators sparks curiosity and exploratory behaviors. “Exploration is a means to alleviate uncertainty,” Towers said. “They are actively learning about us by probing the waters.”

Tower also posits that this behavior signifies that orcas possess a theory of mind, a trait observed in certain birds, apes, and other marine creatures like dolphins.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Ways to Deter Individuals from Pursuing Medical Care: Tips and Slang

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Exercise caution when seeking AI advice on medical issues

Chong Kee Siong/Getty Images

Wondering whether to consult a doctor about your sore throat? The quality of AI recommendations can vary based on how you frame your questions. In experiments with AI models, users who made typos, expressed uncertainty, or were identified as women were more frequently advised to seek medical attention.

“Subtle biases can shape the nature and content of AI recommendations, significantly affecting the distribution of medical resources.” Karandeep Singh, who did not participate in the research at the University of California, San Diego, commented.

Avinisa Gravatina and her team at Massachusetts Institute of Technology have harnessed AI to produce thousands of patient notes in various formats. Some messages included intentional errors and spaces to replicate the writing style of individuals with limited English skills or typing difficulties, while others utilized uncertain language to reflect different emotional tones, including health anxiety or gendered expressions.

The researchers presented these notes to four widely-used large language models (LLMs) that power many chatbot applications, asking them if patients should manage their conditions independently, visit clinics, or undergo certain tests. The models included OpenAI’s GPT-4, Meta’s Llama-3-70b, Llama-3-8b, and the Palmyra-Med model created specifically for healthcare by AI specialists.

Results indicated that variations in format and style influenced the recommendations, with 7-9% of the AI models suggesting that patients remain at home rather than seek medical appointments. Additionally, female patients were more likely to receive recommendations to stay home. A study highlighted that treatment suggestions were more susceptible to changes based on the gender and language style of the queries than those offered by human clinicians.

OpenAI and Meta did not respond to inquiries for comments. According to Zayed Yasin, a writer involved in the research, these LLMs are not intended for health advice or clinical recommendations without human oversight.

Most operational AI technologies in electronic health records currently depend on OpenAI’s GPT-4 O, which wasn’t directly studied here. Singh emphasized the necessity for enhanced methods to assess and monitor generative AI models within the healthcare sector.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Utilize Kelp-Based Killer Whale Grooming Tools

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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In this study, published this month in Current Biology, marine researchers reveal evidence of the widespread creation and utilization of grooming tools among the killer whale (Orcinus orca ater) population. I reside in the Salish Sea, part of the Pacific Ocean between British Columbia and Washington.

Arochelpin, a killer whale from Southern residents (Orcinus orca ater). Image credit: Weiss et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.021.

“We discovered that southern resident killer whales frequently utilize bull kelp during social interactions, seemingly as a tool for mutual grooming.”

“It was incredibly thrilling to observe not only the tool-making behavior of whales, but also the application of these objects in manners not previously documented in marine mammals.”

Dr. Weiss and his team identified this surprising behavior while conducting aerial observations of the southern resident killer whales, a population dwindling to fewer than 80 individuals in the Pacific Northwest.

Since 2018, they have been monitoring these whales to gain insights into their foraging and social habits.

“While other killer whale populations exist across the globe, the southern residents hold unique genetic, ecological, and cultural distinctions,” Dr. Weiss explained.

Using high-resolution video captured from aircraft, researchers discovered that the whales fashioned tools by breaking the edges of the kelp’s stems.

Subsequently, they applied the pieces of kelp to their companions and rolled it between their bodies for extended durations.

This behavior was noted among whales from all social groups, irrespective of gender or age.

They observed that whales were more inclined to groom closely-related companions or older partners.

Furthermore, there was some evidence suggesting that whales with more molting or damaged skin were more likely to engage in grooming, indicating potential hygienic benefits.

“What stands out is that despite this evidently common activity, it has only recently come to light, with drones frequently monitoring these whales for nearly 50 years,” said Dr. Weiss.

“This exemplifies not only the strength of new observational methods but also the many aspects of these creatures we have yet to uncover.”

“Although the whale population has been formally studied for five decades, it continues to yield significant new discoveries,” noted Rachel John, a student at the University of Exeter.

“Previous aerial footage lacked the quality needed to recognize ‘Allokelping’ (i.e., using kelp on another whale), but the recent video captures this behavior in remarkable detail.”

It is still uncertain whether this grooming behavior is exclusive to this population or if it is more commonly observed among other whale communities and species.

Regardless, this finding opens new pathways for understanding tool use in marine mammals and highlights the broader implications of such behaviors.

“We know tactile interactions are crucial,” remarked Professor Darren Croft, a researcher at the University of Exeter and the executive director of the Whale Research Center.

“In primates, including humans, these interactions can alleviate stress and strengthen social bonds.”

“Killer whales frequently make contact with other group members — touching their own bodies and fins — but employing kelp in this manner may enhance these experiences.”

“This behavior might also be vital for skin health. Whales and dolphins utilize various strategies to shed dead skin, and this could serve as an additional adaptation for that purpose.”

“Brown algae like bull kelp may possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that could offer extra benefits to the whales.”

“We are currently conducting further research to validate these initial findings and to investigate the social and skin health advantages of this behavior.”

____

Michael N. Weiss et al. 2025. Manufacturing and use of similar tools by wild killer whales. Current Biology 35 (12): R599-R600; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.021

Source: www.sci.news

One Antiviral Shot Offers Superior Protection Compared to Influenza Vaccines

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Influenza virus particles observed through an electron microscope, color enhanced

John G/Imago/Alamy

A promising long-term antiviral medication may offer protection against all strains of influenza, providing hope for the most vulnerable populations.

The flu results in the loss of thousands of lives annually, and the swift emergence of new variants poses a risk for future pandemics. Each year, scientists reformulate flu vaccines to correspond with the strains that are projected to be prevalent in the upcoming season. These vaccines prompt the immune system to generate antibodies that block the virus from infiltrating the cells.

Efforts are underway to develop a universal influenza vaccine capable of safeguarding individuals from all strains, yet these vaccines face challenges.

“Even if the first approved universal influenza vaccine is created, individuals exhibit varying immune responses, meaning not everyone will be effectively protected,” says Jeffrey Stein, CEO of Cidara. For instance, vaccines often show reduced efficacy in older adults or in those with compromised immune systems.

To tackle this issue, Stein and his team have developed a treatment known as CD388, which includes Zanamivir, an antiviral drug authorized for treating infections caused by all influenza variants that affect humans. Normally, Zanamivir is eliminated from the body within hours, but the research team has modified it to rapidly neutralize the invasive influenza virus. “It’s not part of the immune system,” Stein explains.

For testing, the team enrolled 5,000 participants aged 16-64 from the US and the UK at the beginning of the 2024 flu season. None of the participants were at elevated risk for flu-related complications or had received that year’s flu vaccine. They divided the participants into four approximately equal groups. Three groups received one injection of CD388 at low, moderate, or high doses, while the final group received a placebo.

About six months later, researchers assessed the number of individuals with symptomatic flu infections during the flu season, defined by the presence of influenza virus DNA in nasal swabs and flu-like symptoms such as cough and fever.

Thirty-three individuals in the placebo group reported symptomatic flu, whereas only eight participants in the high-dose CD388 group did, marking a risk reduction of around 76%. The moderate and low-dose groups saw a 61% and 58% decrease in risk of symptomatic infections, respectively. “All doses demonstrated significant protection against influenza illness,” states Nicole Dhabapana, Chief Medical Officer of Sidara. Side effects, such as injection site tenderness, were consistent across both the treatment and placebo groups.

The results indicate that CD388 may offer a more straightforward means of protecting individuals compared to vaccines. “[Unlike vaccines, it] does not need to match the circulating strain, and could be more effective during a ‘poor match’ year or for pandemic preparedness, especially if new flu strains, such as H5N1, transmit to humans,” remarks Pennyword from King’s College London. She adds that, based on previous data on Zanamivir, it is unlikely that influenza strains will develop resistance to it.

This approach is likely to be effective for older individuals and those known to have poor vaccination responses, including the immunocompromised. Davalpana mentions that the team plans to conduct tests on individuals aged 12 and older with compromised immune systems.

Instead of replacing vaccines, Stein suggests that the drug may work best in conjunction with them, although this has yet to be tested. Nevertheless, the findings are timely given the growing hesitance surrounding vaccinations. “We aim to bypass the controversy that unfortunately surrounds vaccines,” Stein remarks.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Transformative Impacts of Anti-Vaccination Beliefs

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sioux Falls, SD – Prior to the widespread implementation of vaccines, catastrophic infections in the U.S. claimed millions of children’s lives and left many others with lifelong health complications.

Over the next century, vaccines successfully eradicated long-standing threats like polio and measles, leading to a significant decrease in many diseases. However, today, as preventable and contagious diseases resurface, vaccine hesitancy is causing a decline in vaccination rates. Moreover, established vaccines are facing skepticism from figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and some civil servants. Long-time anti-vaccine advocates are influencing perceptions managed by the Federal Health Bureau.

“These concerns, along with hesitations and queries regarding vaccines, stem from the profound success of vaccination, as it has eradicated many diseases,” explained Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “If you don’t experience the disease, you lack respect or fear for it, thus undervaluing the vaccine.”

Anti-vaccine proponents often depict vaccines as perilous, emphasizing the rare side effects while neglecting the significantly greater risks posed by the diseases themselves.

Some Americans are acutely aware of the realities of vaccine-preventable diseases, as revealed in interviews conducted by the Associated Press.

Illness during pregnancy can impact two lives

For decades, Janice Farnham has cared for her daughter Jack. Jack, now 60, was born with congenital rubella syndrome, which caused complications with his hearing, vision, and heart. At the time, there was no vaccine for rubella, and Janice caught the infection early in her pregnancy.

Janice, now 80, did everything within her power to help Jack thrive, yet it took a toll on her own well-being. Jack eventually developed diabetes, glaucoma, autistic tendencies, and arthritis.

A nurse prepares measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines in Harbor Straw, New York, in 2019.
Johannes Eisele/AFP -Getty Images File

Currently, Jack resides in an adult care facility, spending four to five days a week with Janice. She is touched by Jack’s sense of humor and loving nature, frequently showering her with affection and often signing “Double I Love You.”

Given their family’s experiences, Janice finds it “more than frustrating” when individuals opt out of the MMR vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella.

“I know what the outcome will be,” she expressed. “I simply want to spare others from enduring this.”

Delaying vaccinations can have dire consequences

Over fifty years have passed, yet Patricia Tobin vividly recalls finding her unconscious sister Karen on the bathroom floor.

In 1970, Karen was only six years old when she contracted measles. At that time, vaccines were not mandated for students in Miami. Doctors mentioned vaccinations for first graders, but urgency was not communicated by their mothers.

“It’s not that she was against it,” Tobin clarified. “She believed she had time.”

As measles outbreaks progressed, Karen collapsed in the restroom and never regained consciousness. She succumbed to encephalitis.

“We could never converse with her again,” Tobin mourned.

Presently, all states necessitate certain vaccinations for children to enroll in school. However, an increasing number of individuals are opting for exemptions. Schaffner from Vanderbilt emphasized that memories of measles outbreaks have been worsened by fraudulent studies falsely asserting a link between MMR vaccines and autism.

The result? Most states fall below the 95% vaccination threshold for kindergarten children – the minimum required to shield communities from measles outbreaks.

Preventable diseases can lead to lasting effects

One of Lora Duguay’s earliest memories is lying in a quarantined hospital ward, her frail body surrounded by ice. She was just three years old.

In 1959, polio was rampant in Clearwater, Florida. It was one of the most dreaded diseases in the U.S., leading some paranoid parents to isolate their children during the epidemic.

Due to the infamous nature of polio, the introduction of its vaccine was met with widespread excitement. However, the early vaccines Duguay received had an efficacy rate of only 80% to 90%, leaving many unvaccinated and vulnerable to the virus.

Polio patients receiving treatment with iron lungs in 1950 at a respiratory center in Los Angeles.
Bettmann Archive

The treatment allowed her to walk again, but she eventually developed post-polio syndrome, a neuromuscular disorder that deteriorates over time, leaving her in a wheelchair today.

Many children receive vaccinations now because the illness that changed her life is no longer a threat in the U.S. This new vaccine is much more effective than earlier versions, not only safeguarding individuals but also preventing sporadic cases from escalating among vulnerable populations.

Vulnerable populations remain at risk without vaccinations

Each night, Katie Van Troonhout cradles a small plaster cast of her daughter’s feet, a painful reminder of her child who succumbed to whooping cough in just 37 days.

Curry Grace was born on Christmas Eve in 2009. At just a month old, she showed symptoms of whooping cough after being exposed to someone too young to receive the Tdap vaccine.

At the hospital, Van Troonhout recalls the medical team desperately trying to save her, but “within minutes, she was gone.”

Today, Curry remains a part of her family’s life, with Van Troonhout advocating for vaccination and sharing her story with others.

“It’s our responsibility as adults to protect our children; that’s what parents do,” Van Troonhout stated. “I witnessed my daughter die from preventable illnesses… you don’t want to have my experiences.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Hubble Observes Reflection Nebula in the Taurus Molecular Cloud

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers employing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have captured an impressive image of the reflective nebula GN 04.32.8.

This Hubble image showcases GN 04.32.8, a reflective nebula located in the constellation Taurus, approximately 480 light years distant. The color composite was formed from images captured in visible and near-infrared light, utilizing data obtained through two filters. Different hues are assigned to each monochromatic image associated with an individual filter. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/G.Duchêne.

GN 04.32.8 is situated around 480 light years from the constellation Taurus.

Also referred to as DG 41, it forms a small segment of the stellar nursery known as the Taurus Molecular Cloud.

“Reflective nebulae are composed of dust clouds in space that do not produce their own light, unlike other types of nebulae,” an expert stated.

“Light from nearby stars illuminates them by scattering off the dust.”

“Due to this scattering effect, many reflective nebulae, including GN 04.32.8, often appear blue.”

GN 04.32.8 is illuminated by a trio of bright stars at the heart of the Hubble image, chiefly the variable star V1025 Tauri.

“One of these stars partially overlaps with the nebula. This is another variable star called HP Tauri, classified among the stars in Tauri, thus resembling other varieties of stars found in the broader molecular complex in Taurus,” the astronomer explained.

“It’s not unusual for T-Tauri stars to inhabit such prolific stellar nursery environments, as they are very dynamic and turbulent in their early evolutionary stages.”

“The three stars are known as HP Tau, HP Tau G2, and HP Tau G3 and are believed to be gravitationally bound, forming a triple system.”

“Observers with keen eyes might spot a small, crushed orange area just outside the center, beneath the nebula, which intersects with dark lines,” the researchers noted.

“This marks a newly formed protostar, concealed within a protoplanetary disk that obscures some of its light.”

“Disks like these are ideal subjects for study because they are oriented edge-on from our viewpoint.”

“We are utilizing Hubble to investigate this phenomenon and to glean insights about the types of exoplanets that could form within such disks.”

Source: www.sci.news

EPA Employees Label Moves Under Trump as “Declaration of Objection”

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Monday, a collective of Environmental Protection Agency staff expressed dissent regarding the agency’s policies during the Trump administration, stating it “undermines the EPA’s mission to safeguard human health and the environment.”

More than 170 EPA employees have cited documents and signed anonymously due to concerns of retaliation, according to Jeremy Berg, former editor-in-chief of Science Magazine. This group includes over 70 Nobel Prize winners and other non-EPA scientists and academics.

The letter marks a rare public critique from agency employees who risk facing backlash for voicing their disagreement with the federal administration’s support for climate, environment, and health sciences. Scientists at the National Institutes of Health experienced a similar situation in early June.

“Since its inception in 1970, the EPA has fulfilled its mission by utilizing science, funding, and professional staff to serve Americans. We oppose the current administration’s emphasis on harmful deregulation, misrepresentation of past EPA actions, and disregard for scientific expertise.”

A spokesperson for the agency did not provide an immediate comment when contacted on Monday.

Employees Hope for a Return to EPA’s Core Mission

“I’m genuinely upset. This agency was a beacon for me in my youth. We aren’t upholding the ideals of this agency under the current administration, and we truly desire that,” stated Amelia Herzberg, an EPA environmental protection specialist who is currently on administrative leave from the Environmental Justice and Civil Rights Bureau.

Herzberg’s role focused on protecting the most vulnerable populations impacted by contamination. This includes pregnant and nursing individuals, children and infants, the elderly, those with chronic health conditions, and communities exposed to greater contamination levels. “This shouldn’t be controversial, but it is in today’s political climate,” she remarked.

“Americans should have access to clean water and air without the risk of poisoning. If not, our government has failed,” she asserted.

Berg, who led the National Institute of Integrated Medical Sciences at the NIH from 2003 to 2011, emphasized that the dissent is not driven by partisan agendas but aims to guide employees back to the foundational mission of the EPA, which is fundamentally about “breathing clean air and drinking safe water.”

The letter articulated five primary concerns of EPA employees: disregarding scientific consensus for polluter benefit, reversing progress in vulnerable U.S. communities, dismantling the Research and Development Bureau, and fostering a culture of fear that forces staff to choose between their livelihoods and well-being.

EPA’s Funding Cuts and Regulatory Reversals

Under the administration of Lee Zeldin, the EPA has announced cuts to funding for environmental improvements in minority communities and plans to roll back federal regulations. Air pollution in national parks and tribal lands is also under scrutiny, along with revisiting bans on certain asbestos types and proposed rules limiting greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas power plants.

Zeldin has initiated a reorganization of EPA’s R&D Office as part of his initiative to reduce budgets and impede research on climate change and environmental justice. Furthermore, he is poised to retract pollution regulations that could reportedly save 30,000 lives and yield $275 billion annually.

“People will die,” stated Carol Grader, a Nobel Prize laureate and professor of molecular and cell biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She referenced last week’s East Coast heatwave as evidence of the real effects of climate change. “If there are no scientists at the EPA, more lives will be lost due to ignorance about our work and its impact on air quality,” she added.

Berg highlighted the significance of the objection declarations from both NIH and EPA employees. These actions reflect a need for consideration about the future of research funding.

When discussing her concerns about potential repercussions, Grader noted that she “experiences all the implications” and frequently engages with graduate students anxious about pursuing scientific careers amidst funding cuts.

She concluded, “If we neglect to support the next generation of scientists, it will lead to long-term consequences: ‘It’s a decades-long issue.’

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Basilisk Review: A Bold, Experimental Thriller That Thrills Puzzle Enthusiasts

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Can Powerful Ideas Cause Physical Harm Through Exposure?

Sumaid Pal Singh Bakshi/Unsplash

Basilisk
Matt Wixey (Titan Books, July 1)

I’m manipulating your thoughts. Just by reading this, I have invaded your mind, as each word travels from my heart to yours. I can even conjure unexpected images in your mind—quickly, don’t think of a pink elephant! Whatever you do, don’t visualize it!

Fortunately, there are limits to the influence of mere words and ideas. But what if those limits could be transcended? Imagine a phrase so potent that it could guide your very thoughts toward your own demise. This is the premise explored in Basilisk, an experimental thriller by Matt Wixey, designed specifically for the minds of readers like those of New Scientist.

This novel features a complex narrative structure, reminiscent of House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski. It follows ethical hacker Alex Webster, who works with a computer security firm, attempting to breach her client’s network while aiding in their defense, a professional endeavor shared by debut author Wixey.

However, it’s not merely straightforward. Webster narrates her experiences through two intertwined threads. First, we unravel how she and colleague Jay Morton stumbled into the puzzle leading to his death. Then, she reflects on that tragedy and processes its far-reaching consequences.

The narrative doesn’t end there. Webster’s accounts are supplemented with footnotes from both her and the detective investigating Morton’s death, interspersed with correspondence from a mysterious figure known as Helmsman, who sheds light on the puzzle they aim to solve.

This book feels tailor-made for my brain—that of a New Scientist reader.

If all this sounds overwhelming, Basilisk may not be for you. Personally, piecing together the multifaceted narratives exhilarated me, making my mind race with possibilities.

Helmsman’s correspondences themselves adopt various formats, from bureaucratic emails and scientific reports to conversational dialogues. They tackle numerous topics typically found in New Scientist, covering psychology to artificial intelligence, and I appreciated the precise references to scientific literature. Helmsman details attempts to cultivate a “basilisk,” a concept that can inflict harm merely through exposure, named after the mythical creature said to slay with a glance.

Matt Wixey’s Basilisk centers on “Ethical Hacker” Alex Webster

Basilisks are, as far as we know, fictional, yet the concepts they embody are increasingly compelling. Science fiction author David Langford has explored such ideas in his short stories. Basilisk presents the notion of images that may ‘crash’ the human mind akin to deceptive computer code.

A notable example is Roko’s basilisk—a baffling proposition suggesting that all-powerful future AI will punish those who fail to ensure its creation (a more thorough explanation isn’t wise). The latest series of the anthology Black Mirror also references this concept.

Basilisk represents a subset of broader cognitive hazards, which span topics from nuclear weapons to organized religions.

While reading Basilisk, sleepless nights drove me to read yet another chapter, prompting me to question if the book itself qualifies as a cognitive hazard. I found it difficult to stop thinking about even after finishing. Now that you’ve read this review, perhaps you’re at risk, too.

Please proceed. Dive into the book. Wouldn’t you want to discover what unfolds?

The Art and Science Behind Writing Science Fiction

Embark on a journey into the realm of science fiction writing this weekend, dedicated to creating new worlds and artistic marvels.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Math Tricks to Simplify Counting

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“It’s hard to count moving objects.”

Connect Images – Curation/Shutterstock

Whether it’s military tanks, roaming wildlife, or busy cutlery in a restaurant, counting moving objects can be quite challenging. Thankfully, there exists a method that enables you to estimate the total number of items without having to count every single one.

The capture-recapture technique works by sampling. For instance, you allow some animals to roam, then collect a subset. After marking the individuals, they are returned to the population. Later, you can capture another group and count how many of them are marked.

If your first capture involves 50 marked animals, and you find that half of the second group are marked, you can deduce that approximately half of the total population is marked. Therefore, the entire population can be estimated to be around 100.

During World War II, Allied statisticians aimed to estimate the number of tanks manufactured by the German forces. Instead of releasing captured tanks, they labeled tank components with serial numbers. By recording the serial numbers of both captured and destroyed tanks, they could estimate total production under the assumption of uniform distribution. If the highest serial number recorded is l and n is the number of captured tanks, then the total tank count can be estimated as l + L/n.

For example, if the maximum serial number logged is 80, you might estimate the full range to be around 80/4 = 20, resulting in an overall estimate of about 100 tanks. This problem is commonly referred to as the German tank problem in statistics.

One of my favorite stories about estimating populations comes from a friend’s teacher. The class was tasked with estimating the number of forks in the cafeteria.

The students “captured” several forks, marking each with a spot of nail polish before releasing them back. A week later, they recaptured a sample and used it to estimate the total fork count.

Researcher executed a similar study 20 years ago. Concerned about missing teaspoons in their lab, they marked and released a number of spoons, tracked their movements, and published their findings. The outcome proved effective, prompting the notorious return of five misplaced teaspoons by the culprit in the building.

Katie Steckles is a mathematician, educator, YouTuber, and author based in Manchester, UK. She also serves as an advisor to Brent Wister, a puzzle column for New Scientist. Follow her on Twitter @stecks.

For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Gut Microbiota Alterations Associated with Fertility Challenges in PCOS Patients

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Restoring the levels of specific intestinal microorganisms may help treat fertility problems in people with PCOS

Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo

Women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) seem to face a heightened risk of pregnancy complications linked to lower levels of gut microorganisms.

PCOS stands as the most prevalent hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of infertility. Yet, the underlying causes and effective management remain somewhat elusive. For instance, it remains unclear why women with PCOS who do conceive are more susceptible to complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, and gestational diabetes.

Aixia Liu from Z Jiang University in China and her research team tracked the pregnancy outcomes of 220 women across 44 cities, half of whom had PCOS. All were younger than 35 and provided blood samples as well as stool and tissue samples from the endometrial (internal lining of the uterus).

Despite having comparable pregnancy rates, women with PCOS exhibited nearly double the likelihood of facing pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, premature birth, gestational diabetes, and delivering babies with low birth weight. Furthermore, researchers determined that women with PCOS have roughly half the quantity of gut bacteria, particularly Parabacteroides merdae, which was more closely linked to pregnancy outcomes than in those without the condition.

P. merdae aids in converting specific nutrients, like the amino acid isoleucine, into beneficial compounds known as short-chain fatty acids, which are crucial for reproductive health. This likely accounts for the 39% higher average isoleucine levels in the blood samples of PCOS participants and their 10% lower levels of short-chain fatty acids. Additionally, high isoleucine concentrations were noted in the endometrial tissue.

In laboratory settings, when researchers cultured the participants’ endometrial cells and introduced isoleucine, they observed increased markers of cell senescence, indicating wear or damage in the cells that compromised their function. Isoleucine seemed to disrupt the processes endometrial cells typically undergo during pregnancy.

“These findings suggest age-related changes within the uterus,” Li remarked in a statement from the annual meeting of the European Breeding Association, where the data was revealed. “Our research points to high levels of isoleucine from P. merdae potentially impairing endometrial health, even in women under 35.”

Such results suggest that alterations in the gut microbiome could play a role in PCOS-related fertility challenges; however, Andrea Dunaif at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, expresses skepticism. Her studies indicate that reproductive aging in PCOS is more delayed than accelerated. “Reproductive issues often improve in your 30s,” Dunaif notes. “This leads me to doubt the significance of endometrial findings and their true responsibility for pregnancy outcomes.”

Nonetheless, these insights could pave the way for enhanced fertility treatments for women with PCOS. “Where might we intervene in the microbiome and adjust with various probiotics?” Dunaif suggests.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Four Foods That Enhance Ozempic Weight Loss (and Ones That Hinder It)

Posted on June 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

There are no specific foods that are prohibited while using Ozempic (semaglutide), which is prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and may assist in weight loss.

However, the following recommendations can help maximize your weight loss efforts and promote a sustainable, healthy diet over time.

Foods to Increase…

1. High-fiber foods

Fiber slows the digestion process and enhances the effectiveness of Ozempic in emptying the stomach, helping you feel full longer and preventing blood sugar spikes.

Examples of high-fiber foods include vegetables (like leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, etc.), fruits (such as apples, berries, oranges, etc.), and whole grains like oats.

High-fiber options like oats and fruits can slow sugar release and support gut health – Credit: Zeljkosantrac

2. Lean protein

Incorporating lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and plant-based proteins helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

3. Healthy fats

Sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide sustained energy and assist in blood sugar regulation without causing spikes.

4. Low-glycemic foods

Foods with a low glycemic index, such as sweet potatoes and non-starchy vegetables, can help prevent rapid increases in blood glucose levels.

Processed and fried foods may exacerbate the side effects of semaglutide, including nausea – Credit: Alexander Spatari via Getty

Foods to Reduce…

1. Sugary treats

Candies, pastries, sodas, and other sweet snacks can cause spikes in blood sugar and contribute to nausea and other digestive issues.

2. Processed and Fried Foods

These foods are typically high in unhealthy fats, salts, and preservatives, which can worsen nausea and interfere with blood sugar control.

3. Spicy Foods

Due to the delayed gastric emptying caused by Ozempic, spicy or heavy foods may lead to nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.

4. Alcohol

Individuals taking Ozempic may experience reduced alcohol tolerance, so it’s wise to be mindful of consumption. Additionally, alcohol contains calories that won’t aid in weight loss.

This article addresses the question posed by Jamil Pierce from Surrey: “What are the best and worst foods to eat while on Ozempic?”

Please reach out to submit your questions to Question @sciencefocus.com or message us via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).

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This daring theory suggests the Big Bang may not be our starting point.

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

What is the ekpyrotic universe theory? Ekpyrotic Cosmology serves as an alternative to the conventional Lambda-CDM or λCDM model.

The λCDM model relies on a significant flatness of the universe, necessitating a phase of rapid “inflation” to smooth out initial density and temperature fluctuations.

Despite the lack of direct evidence or identifiable causes for this inflation, it provides a solid explanation for many complex aspects of our observable universe, aligning well with current data.

In contrast, ekpyrotic theory posits no beginning of time, substituting the big bang with a “bounce” between two “branes” within a 3D world of 5-dimensional space-time.

The structure of the contemporary universe is established before this bounce, thereby negating the need for inflation.

Additionally, this theory circumvents the problematic “singularities” present in traditional Big Bang cosmology. However, it has its drawbacks, such as the emergence of negative energy particles that could potentially annihilate the universe.

There are also notable divergences in the predictions of ekpyrotic and λCDM theories, including the gravitational wave background’s shape (the random ripples in potential space-time caused by Big Bang forces) and the existence of so-called “ghost particles.”

Nevertheless, there is currently no observational evidence backing Ecpyrus theory in comparison to λCDM cosmology.

Thus, while the theory is a compelling alternative, the standard Big Bang model remains the most widely accepted framework among physicists.

This article addresses the question: “What is the Ekpyrotic Universe Theory?”

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The Subtle Tactics Narcissists Use to Manipulate Your Personality

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Do you identify as an empathetic individual who prefers to stay out of the limelight? Have you found it challenging to articulate your own thoughts and feelings, often listening to others instead? Have you experienced a long-term relationship with a narcissist? If any of this resonates with you, you might be an echoist.

Echoism stands in contrast to extreme narcissism. Though this might seem favorable, a high degree of echoism can complicate one’s life significantly.

Echoists often do not perceive themselves as special and frequently neglect their own needs.

What is an echo?

Individuals with echoism typically shy away from or reject attention. They are deeply empathetic and attuned to the emotions of others, yet often engage in self-criticism and struggle with low self-esteem.

They may also be hesitant to express their own thoughts and feelings, often stemming from a fear of rejection and criticism.

The echoist might say, “I lead my life by the principle that the less attention I attract, the better.” Dr. Craig Malkin, author of Rethinking Narcissism.

“A defining characteristic of an echoist is a fear of appearing narcissistic in any way.”

Individuals with echoism tend to actively avoid or reject attention – Photo credit: Solvin Zankl/Naturepl.com

But where does the term “echoist” originate? To grasp this, let’s look back at Greek mythology.

Echo is named after the mountain nymph who fell in love with a hunter named Narcissus. Echo was spurned by Narcissus, who was doomed to only repeat the last words spoken to her.

The term echoism symbolizes the loss of Echo’s voice and identity as depicted in mythology.

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Are narcissism and echoism linked?

Many echoists grow up with narcissistic parents or find themselves in relationships with narcissistic partners. Navigating the whims of a narcissist can take an emotional toll. Research indicates that living with a pathologically narcissistic partner or family member can be quite burdensome.

Malkin explains that, as a child, the echoist was often afraid of losing her mother if she did not appease her frequent outbursts of tears and anger. The fear of rejection from loved ones is a common trait among echoists.

Malkin also notes that echoists are often drawn to narcissists due to fears of burdening others or appearing inadequate. Being involved with someone who enjoys the spotlight can provide a sense of security for echoists.

However, echoism can emerge even in the absence of malicious narcissism, particularly if echoist parents instill phrases like “Don’t get a big head” or “Don’t show off.”

Continually absorbing these negative messages can foster a child’s disproportionate sense of shame, hindering their ability to take pride in their achievements.

While society tends to discourage prideful behavior in children (and adults), it is important to recognize that taking pride in accomplishments is crucial for developing the self-esteem that echoists often lack.

About our experts

Dr. Craig Malkin is a psychologist and lecturer in psychology at Harvard Medical School, USA, as well as an author. He has published two books: Rethinking Narcissism and Narcissist Test.

This article addresses the question from Helena Howard of Torkey: “How did living with a narcissist affect me?”

For inquiries, please email us at Question @sciencefocus.com or message us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (remember to include your name and location).

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Doctors Share Tips to Avoid “Ozempic Face”

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Initially created to manage diabetes, the emergence of drugs like Ozempic has sparked a weight loss phenomenon.

As these medications gain popularity for individuals with high body mass index, a new cosmetic issue has emerged: “Ozempic Face.”

This term refers to the sagging and indentations in the face that some individuals encounter after significant weight loss. Whether through medication, diet, or lifestyle modifications, losing weight reduces fat in all body areas, including the face.

Facial fat is essential for providing structure, volume, and youthful contours. Its absence can lead to a sunken appearance, making the face seem older as skin may droop and wrinkles become more prominent.

This concern isn’t exclusive to weight loss medications; it also occurs with any form of rapid weight reduction. However, drugs like Ozempic tend to facilitate quicker weight loss, giving your body less time to adjust.

Avoiding this issue can be challenging, as the body doesn’t fully control fat loss locations, but there are methods to mitigate more drastic effects.

Gradually lose weight: Slow weight loss allows for a better adaptation period for skin changes, lessening the risk of noticeable sagging.

Maintain hydration: Staying hydrated enhances skin elasticity and helps maintain its shape as fat diminishes.

Nourish the skin: A solid skincare regimen, including moisturizers, may assist.

“Ozempic Face” refers to the sagging and hollowness that some experience after substantial weight loss.

Some online sources suggest that options like fillers, Botox, and other cosmetic treatments may help restore volume and lift in the face; however, these also carry risks and aren’t always effective.

Ultimately, weight loss aspirations—regardless of whether they’re achieved through medication or other methods—should prioritize health over mere aesthetics.

If you’re concerned about changes to your facial appearance, consult your doctor or dermatologist to discuss a balanced weight loss approach.

This article addresses your inquiry (you’ll receive an email from Asad Iravani) about the possibility of developing “Ozempic Face.”

Please email us to submit your questions Question @sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, xor Instagram Page (remember to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Arrival of the First Commercial Space Station: A Game Changer for Space Exploration

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 2026, a group of astronauts is floating inside a gleaming white cylinder, positioned hundreds of kilometers above the Earth.

They gaze down at our planet through a 1.1-meter dome window and rest in an inflatable bed engineered for zero gravity, while conducting experiments focusing on human physiology, plant development, and protein crystallization.

Yet, this isn’t the International Space Station (ISS). It’s not managed by NASA, Roscosmos, or the China National Space Administration. This is Haven-1, the world’s inaugural commercial space station constructed by a private company named Vast.

Set to launch in May 2026 aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9, Haven-1 signifies transformative shifts in how we live and work in space.

“If you can achieve this prior to securing a NASA contract [to replace the ISS], using our funds, we have numerous CEOs,” says Max Haot to BBC Science Focus. “We will not only be the first commercial space station but also the sole predicted bidders to accomplish this.”

Minimum viable space station

Vast’s strategy is quick, concentrated, straightforward, and practical. Rather than constructing an extensive orbital laboratory, they designed a carefully constrained system that prioritizes safety and quality.

With a volume of 45m³ (1,590 feet)³, Haven-1 provides roughly the interior space of a small tour bus. Its life support system operates on a simpler “open loop” model, adapted from previous NASA technology and utilized during the space shuttle era.

The crew will stay for shorter durations compared to the ISS. Instead, four astronauts will visit for approximately 10 days, arriving aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Over Haven-1’s projected three-year orbital lifespan, only four such missions are planned.

“As a demonstration of a minimally viable product space station, safety is our top priority,” Haot states. “The second priority is achieving this within an unprecedented timeline. A swift timeline leads to reduced costs.”

Simplifying processes enables Vast to accelerate progress. The main structure is already assembled and will undergo testing this summer after completion in July. By early next year, the entire system should be integrated, and final tests will commence.

Haven-1 hosts four crew members at a time on a 10-day mission. – Extensive

Stations that look like the future

Aesthetically, Haven-1 is a remarkable departure from its predecessor. While the ISS is an engineering marvel, it often resembles a floating plumbing workshop. Haven-1 is designed with a science fiction aesthetic. Its interior is clean, functional, and sleek for space habitats.

This aesthetic reimagining is not solely for show. It’s about functionality. “We go to space to work,” Haot explains. “It’s straightforward to understand that better rest, well-being, and communication lead to increased productivity.”

Here, Vast’s Human Factors team plays a crucial role, led by veteran NASA astronaut Drew Feestel.

For instance, sleep is facilitated using an inflatable bed that applies gentle pressure, mimicking the physical sensations astronauts crave in microgravity.

“Astronauts have various preferences for sleeping on the ISS,” says Haot. “Many opt for pressure against their bodies while they sleep.”

read more:

What occurs aboard the ship?

Each mission to Haven-1 will be shorter yet packed with activities. Scientists can engage approximately 40 crew members throughout the station’s lifespan, given the limited opportunities for human time in orbit.

“Humanity has limited time to learn about space habitation and test technology,” notes Haot. “We believe that you can be incredibly productive within that time.”

Already lined up are research projects addressing human biology, drug screening, plant development, and protein crystal formation. Vast has established partnerships with Redwire Space (USA), Yuri (Germany), and Exobios Fair (Luxembourg).

A French company, Interstellar Lab, is investigating plant growth in microgravity.

Between missions, the station will be utilized to experiment with artificial gravity systems. This is an early step toward enhancing safety and feasibility for long-duration space travel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqrgo8pgnhc

Strategic moves in the post-ISS era

Haven-1 is more than just a research platform; it’s a strategic maneuver in a much broader competition.

NASA intends to retire the ISS around 2030 and is currently reviewing bids for the next-generation orbital platform. Haot aims to secure that contract, and launching Haven-1 early with private funding is a bold way to leap ahead of competitors.

“Our goal is to present the most compelling strategy among all contenders,” Haot explains. “We’ve already achieved this by being ahead in technology development, teams, facilities, and certification processes.”

However, winning the race is not guaranteed. A competing spaceflight company, Axiom Space, has already secured a $140 million contract from NASA to connect at least one module to the ISS. Work is ongoing at Axiom, with the inaugural launch slated for late 2026.

Other companies, including Blue Origin, Northrop Grumman, and Starlab, are also in the running.

If successful, the Vast team will be well-positioned when NASA makes its decisions in 2026. If NASA’s objectives do not come to fruition, they may explore opportunities with foreign governments and private entities interested in utilizing the station.

“We remain optimistic about the future of Vast, but our primary focus is internally,” affirms Haot. “Winning this opportunity is of pivotal significance—it’s the largest market opportunity currently in the space station sector.”

Despite shorter time frames, astronauts onboard will conduct hundreds of experiments. – Extensive

From Haven-1 to a comprehensive orbital hub

Haven-1 is just the beginning. Vast’s subsequent venture is Haven-2, a more advanced module adhering to the same philosophy. Starting in 2028, the company plans to launch new modules every six months, ultimately assembling a complete commercial station by 2032.

This modular future facilitates more frequent crew missions, civil research programs, and, ultimately, a broader orbital economy.

Thanks to a partnership with SpaceX, Haven-1 will also become the first space station connected to Starlink, providing ORBIT Gigabit Speed Internet.

“If you want to operate Haven-1 and communicate continuously, you can,” Haot asserts. “This will significantly change how the public and crew interact.”

Redefining space

Haven-1 may not be the largest or the most sophisticated station in orbit, but it will be the first entirely constructed, funded, and operated by private enterprises. That’s the crux of its significance.

Vast aims to reshape the landscape of low Earth orbit, illustrating that space infrastructure can be efficient, elegant, and commercially viable. Whether in science, exploration, or industry, HAOT believes the future of space belongs not to nations, but to those who reach the stars first.

“The goal isn’t to erect luxury hotels in space to attract tourists,” emphasizes Haot. “The aim is to create a robust environment that supports exploration.”

“It’s not without risks. We need to observe what transpires in reality.”

read more:

About our experts

Max Hat is an entrepreneur with a background in aerospace, appliances, and the internet. He currently serves as the CEO of Vast.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Canada’s Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt Contains Fragments of Earth’s Oldest Crust, Research Reveals

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Geologists have found significant evidence indicating the preservation of Hadean Rocks, with an age of 4.16 billion years. The Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt offers a rare glimpse into the early Earth.

Canadian Nuvvuagittuq Green Stone Belt. Image credit: Jonathan O’Neill.

The earliest geological history of Earth remains largely unclear due to the scarcity of rocks and minerals from the Hadean period (over 4.3 billion years ago).

These ancient materials are often altered or destroyed as the planet’s crust undergoes continual recycling through various geological processes.

“One potential survivor of the Hadean era crustal rock is the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt,” stated Dr. Christian Saul, a senior author from the University of Ottawa and his colleagues.

“However, this perspective is contentious. Some researchers argue that the isotopic data backing these estimates might instead reflect later geological mixing rather than the true age of the layers.”

“If proven to be of Hadean origin, the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt would represent the oldest known preserved rock sequence on Earth.”

“This could yield critical insights into early geology and possible environments for the emergence of life.”

To refine the age of the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt, researchers concentrated on specific types of ancient rock intrusions known as metagabbro within the belt.

These intrusions intersect with ancient basaltic rocks, enabling the authors to utilize combined uranium-lead (U-Pb) dating to determine the minimum age limits of older layers, along with both short and long-lived samarium-neodymium (Sm-Nd) isotopic analysis.

Sm-Nd data yielded a consistent age of approximately 4.16 billion years, irrespective of the sample location or mineral composition.

The convergence of both isotope systems producing the same age in rocks with clear evidence of magma differentiation strongly supports their Hadean era crystallization.

This is in accordance with the Hadean Eon surviving within the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt.

“Studying these rocks allows us to trace back to the origins of our planet,” noted Dr. Jonathan O’Neill, a researcher at the University of Ottawa.

“This will enable us to gain a better understanding of how the first continent formed and help reconstruct the environment in which life emerged.”

Survey results published in the journal Science.

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C. Sole et al. 2025. Evidence of Hadean Mafic invasion in the Canadian Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt. Science 388 (6754): 1431-1435; doi: 10.1126/science.ads8461

Source: www.sci.news

Discovering the Andromeda Galaxy Like Never Before

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA astronomers have utilized data from multiple universes and ground-based telescopes to produce breathtaking new images of the Andromeda Galaxy, the nearest spiral galaxy to our Milky Way.

This new composite image of the Andromeda Galaxy features X-ray data from Chandra and XMM-Newton (depicted in red, green, and blue), ultraviolet data from Galex (blue), optical data from ground astrophotographers (Jakob Sahner and Tarun Kottary), as well as infrared data from Spitzer, Cobe, Planck, and Herschel (in red, orange, purple). Wireless data sourced from the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (red-orange). Image credit: NASA.

Also referred to as NGC 224, Messier 31, or M31, the Andromeda Galaxy is a spiral galaxy located approximately 2.5 million light-years from Earth.

With over 100 billion stars, it is comparable in size to our own Milky Way galaxy.

Visible as cigar-shaped patches of light high in the autumn sky, the Andromeda Galaxy’s enormous bubbles of high-temperature diffuse plasma make it appear 100 times the angular diameter of the full moon.

The galaxy is surrounded by a dark, invisible halo extending about a million light-years and is believed to contain half of its star mass.

Andromeda has significantly contributed to various fields of astrophysics, especially in the study and identification of dark matter.

In the 1960s, astronomer Dr. Vera Rubin and her team investigated Andromeda and identified invisible forces influencing the galaxy’s spiral arm rotations.

“This new image of the Andromeda Galaxy is released to honor Vera Rubin’s pioneering contributions that transformed our comprehension of the cosmos,” stated a NASA astronomer.

“Rubin’s meticulous measurements of Andromeda’s rotational curves provided some of the earliest and most convincing evidence that galaxies exist within vast halos of unseen material.”

“Her research reshaped long-standing assumptions and sparked a new era of inquiry into the structure and dynamics of the universe.”

“To celebrate her scientific achievements, the US Mint recently issued a quarter featuring Rubin as part of the American Women Quarters program in 2025.”

To create a new image of the Andromeda Galaxy, astronomers analyzed data from NASA’s Chandra X-Ray Observatory, XMM-Newton, Planck, and Herschel Telescopes from ESA, in addition to data from retired Galex and Spitzer telescopes. Information was also gathered from astrophotographers using ground-based telescopes and wireless data from the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope.

“Each type of light provides unique insights into this neighboring galaxy as compared to the Milky Way,” the researchers noted.

“For instance, Chandra’s X-rays unveil high-energy radiation around the ultra-massive black holes at Andromeda’s core, alongside numerous small, dense objects scattered throughout the galaxy.”

“A recent publication on Chandra observations of the Andromeda Galaxy details the amount of X-rays emitted by the ultra-massive black holes at the galaxy’s center over the past 15 years.”

“One flare was detected in 2013, showcasing the typical X-ray amplification seen from a black hole.”

Source: www.sci.news

Two Parasitic Bacteria Discovered in 99-Million-Year-Old Amber

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The fossilized bacteria from Cachin Amber in Central Cretaceous belong to the same family as the zombie ant bacteria, ophiocordyceps unilateralis, which has become well-known as the inspiration for various popular apocalyptic video games and TV series, such as Our Last.

Ecological reconstruction of Cretaceous insects and insect pathogenic fungi. The ants have abandoned the infected PUP, and the infected fly is located on the trunk of a distant tree. Image credit: Zhuang et al., doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407.

Two newly identified species, Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae and Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae, represent some of the oldest fossil records of animals and pathogenic fungi.

These specimens were discovered in 99-million-year-old fragments of Kachin amber, sourced from a mine near the village of Neuebham in northern Myanmar.

“Insects and fungi are among the most diverse groups of living organisms, cohabiting Earth’s ecosystems for over 400 million years,” explains Professor Edmund Jalsenbowski, a paleontologist at the Geology, Paleontology and Natural History Museum in London, along with his colleagues from the Nanjing Institute of Studies.

“Consequently, they have developed intricate and close ecological relationships, including reciprocity, predation, and parasitism.”

“Entomopathogenic fungi, in particular, have garnered attention for their role in regulating insect populations, though much remains unclear about them.”

“The infection process begins when spores come into contact with the proper host, initiating germination through enzymatic hydrolysis, allowing entry into the insect’s body cavity (hemocoel).”

“Once the fungus infiltrates the insect’s body, it (as yeast-like cells at this phase) proliferates via budding, consuming the host’s body from within.”

“Eventually, the host typically succumbs to fungal toxins, leading to the formation of chains of yeast-like cells that transition to the filamentous stage shortly after the host’s death.”

“These filaments gradually organize into compact spore-producing structures (sporocaps) that emerge from the softer parts of the insect, dispersing spores into the environment to infect additional hosts.”

Holotype of Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae. This comparison of mid-Cretaceous specimens shows similarities with existing Bacillus ophiocordis: (a, b) Lateral and dorsal views of the bipteran host, where potential fungal structures are visible. (c) Closure of the fungal stroma of Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae; (D, E) Apex of the fungal stroma. The red arrows indicate the surroundings. (f, g, h) Presence of ophiocordyceps stromas for Ant and Dipteran hosts. Scale bars – 0.5 mm (a, b), 0.1 mm (c) and 50 μm (d, e). Image credit: Zhuang et al., doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407.

According to the authors, Paleoophiocordyceps gerontoformicae was found in a young ant, while Paleoophiocordyceps Ironomyiae was discovered on a fly.

“It’s captivating to observe that some of the unusual phenomena we witness today were also present during the age of dinosaurs,” remarked Professor Jarzembowski.

“Known as a zombie fungus, it can influence the behavior of its host, a feature that has been depicted in popular apocalyptic video games and series like Our Last.”

“Given that the infection is lethal, ophiocordyceps and its fossil counterparts likely played a significant role in regulating insect populations during the Middle Cretaceous, similar to how their modern relatives do today.”

“While parasitism is common in today’s ecosystems, evidence of these interactions is seldom found in the fossil record.”

“This is primarily due to the poor preservation of their soft tissues in fossils and the fact that they reside within their hosts, making identification among insect remains challenging.”

“While ancient parasite specimens have been uncovered, our understanding of their evolution remains limited.”

“This new discovery provides rare insight into these parasites from a long-ago era.”

The team’s research paper was published in the June 2025 issue of Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biology.

____

Yuhui Zhuang et al. Cretaceous insect pathogenic fungi illuminate the early evolution of insect-fungal associations. Proc. R. Soc. B 292 (2048): 20250407; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0407

Source: www.sci.news

Webb Sheds New Light on the Structural Evolution of Disk Galaxies

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Modern disk galaxies frequently display distinct thin and thick disks. The mechanisms driving the formation of these two discs and the timeline of their emergence are still unanswered questions. To investigate these issues, astronomers examined various epochs (statistical samples of 111 edge-on disk galaxies dating back up to 11 billion years, or approximately 2.8 billion years post-Big Bang) utilizing archived data from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.

Webb/nircam composite images of a quarter of the team’s samples were sorted by increasing redshift. Image credit: Tsukui et al., doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf604.

Present-day disk galaxies often comprise extensive, star-rich outer disks alongside thin, star-like disks.

For instance, the thick discs of the Milky Way reach approximately 3,000 light-years in height, while the thin discs are roughly 1,000 light-years thick.

But what mechanisms lead to the formation of this dual disk structure?

“The thickness of high redshift discs, or unique measurements from the early universe, serve as benchmarks for theoretical research that can only be conducted using Webb,” states Takagi, an astronomer at the Australian National University.

“Typically, older, thicker disk stars are dim, while the younger, thinner disk stars dominate the galaxy.”

“However, Webb’s exceptional resolution allows us to observe and highlight faint older stars, enabling us to distinguish between two disk structures in a galaxy and measure their thickness separately.”

Through an analysis of 111 edge-on targets over cosmological time, astronomers studied both single-disc and double-disc galaxies.

The findings indicate that galaxies initially form a thick disk, which is followed by the formation of a thin disk.

The timing of this process is contingent on the galaxy’s mass: high-mass, single-disk galaxies transitioned to two-disk structures around 8 billion years ago.

In contrast, a thin disk emerged about 4 billion years ago within low-mass, single-disk galaxies.

“This is the first time we’ve resolved a thin star disk at such a high redshift,” remarked Dr. Emily Wysnioski from the Australian National University.

“The novelty becomes evident when observing the onset of thin star disks.”

“It was astonishing to witness a thin star disk from 8 billion years ago, and even further back.”

To elucidate the transition from a single thick disk to a dual-disk structure, as well as the timing differences between high-mass and low-mass galaxies, researchers expanded their investigation beyond the initial edge-on-galaxy samples. They examined data showing the movement of gases from large millimeter/sub-millimeter arrays (ALMAs) in Atacama and ground surveys.

By considering the movement of the galaxy’s gas disks, they found their results aligned with the “turbulent gas disk” scenario.

In this framework, the turbulent gas disks of the early universe catalyze intense star formation, leading to the creation of thick star disks.

As stars form, they stabilize the gas disks, diminishing turbulence and consequently resulting in thinner disks.

Larger galaxies can convert gas into stars more efficiently and thus calm down more quickly than their lower-mass counterparts, leading to the formation of the earlier thin disk.

“This study delineates structural differences between thin and thick discs, but we aim to explore further,” Dr. Tsukui mentioned.

“We look to incorporate the types of information typically acquired from nearby galaxies, such as stellar movement, age, and metallicity.”

“By doing so, we can bridge insights from both nearby and distant galaxies, enhancing our understanding of disk formation.”

Survey results were published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

____

Takagi Tsukui et al. 2025. The emergence of thin and thick discs of galaxies across the history of the universe. mnras 540(4): 3493-3522; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf604

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Karawon Fossils Discovered in New Zealand, Dating Back 19 Million Years

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have unearthed a new species of large passerine birds based on fossilized remains from the Bannockburn Formation near St. Bathans in Otago, New Zealand.

Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina Tibicen), adults and juveniles, in Tabeumi, Fiji. Image credits: Charles J. Sharp, https://www.sharpphotography.co.uk / CC by-sa 4.0.

The newly identified bird inhabited New Zealand during the early Miocene period around 19 million years ago.

It has been named St. Batan’s Caloun (MioStrepera Canora), closely related to the Australian Magpie (Gymnorhina Tibicen) found in New Zealand today, likely exhibiting an entirely black plumage.

“We’ve experienced a lot of excitement and hard work,” shared Dr. Paul Scofield, senior curator at the Canterbury Museum.

“We probably haven’t encountered a member of this large magpie family for just five million years.”

“New Zealand’s ecosystem has undergone significant transformations over millions of years, welcoming diverse species throughout various eras,” noted Dr. Trevor Worthy, a researcher at Flinders University.

“There’s a notion that we should strive to restore New Zealand to its pre-European ecosystem.”

“However, that ecosystem had been in a constant state of flux for millions of years.”

“By the time humans arrived, Aotearoa had already lost much of the floral diversity that once thrived.”

“There were limited tree seeds available, but the decline of the choloun and other pigeons indicates this loss.”

“Different plant and animal groups emerged between 2.6 million and 11,700 years ago.”

“Even more have come since humans began to inhabit the land.”

“New Zealand’s pre-European ecosystem isn’t inherently better or worse than any other period in the past.”

“The fossil record hints at the absence of a utopian state and encourages us to celebrate the diversity present today.”

The fossilized remains of MioStrepera Canora were found at the St Bathans fossil site, which was once located at the bottom of a vast prehistoric lake.

“The research revealed that the Miocene bird population in New Zealand bears surprising similarities to contemporary Australian birds,” Dr. Scofield mentioned.

“New Zealand was vastly different during the Miocene, between 200,000 to 5 million years ago.”

“If you walked through New Zealand’s forests during that time, you would have seen abundant eucalyptus, laurel, and casuarinas, much like the forests of Australia today.”

“The most significant factor shaping New Zealand’s current landscape was the extinction of many plants and animals that thrived in warmer climates, following a rapid cooling that began around 13 million years ago.”

“It was likely not the only bird call you would have heard in ancient New Zealand.”

The discovery of MioStrepera Canora is detailed in a paper published in the journal Palz.

____

Worth it et al. A large-scale clastatin passerine (Aves, Artamidae, Cracticinae) from the early Miocene of New Zealand. Palz published on June 25th, 2025. doi:10.1007/s12542-025-00736-x

Source: www.sci.news

Significant Reductions in Hurricane Data May Leave Predictors in the Dark

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Forecasters are about to lose a vital source of satellite data just months ahead of the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, as the Department of Defense prepares to shut down a more critical data stream than cybersecurity issues.

The data is generated by microwave sensors on three aging polar orbit satellites that serve both military and civilian functions. These sensors are crucial for hurricane forecasting, as they can analyze cloud layers and the storm’s core, providing insights even at night without relying on visible light.

Experts are concerned that this loss of data will hinder forecasters during a period when the National Weather Service is deploying fewer weather balloons due to budget cuts and insufficient meteorological staff. The absence of this data affects meteorologists’ ability to assess storm threats effectively and prepare emergency managers accordingly. Microwave data offers some of the earliest signs that wind speeds are intensifying in storms.

“It’s a tool that enables deeper insight. Losing it will significantly impair hurricane forecasts. It can detect the formation of eye walls in tropical storms, indicating whether these storms are intensifying,” an expert commented.

Researchers suggest that as ocean temperatures rise due to human-induced climate change, rapid intensification in tropical storms may become more common.

The three satellites operate through a collaborative initiative involving the Defense Weather Satellite Program, NOAA, and the Department of Defense.

While hurricane experts expressed concern about the loss of this tool, NOAA’s communications director, Kim Doster, minimized the potential impact of the National Weather Service’s decision on hurricane forecasting.

In a message, Doster described the military’s microwave data as “one dataset in a robust suite of hurricane prediction and modeling tools” within the NWS.

According to Doster, these forecasting models integrate data from various satellites located around 22,300 miles away from Earth, providing a synchronized view that follows the planet’s rotation.

They also incorporate measurements from Hurricane Hunter planes, buoys, weather balloons, land radars, and additional polar orbit satellites, including NOAA’s joint polar satellite system.

A U.S. Space Force representative confirmed that the satellites and their equipment are operational, and data will continue to be sent directly to satellite readout terminals across the DOD. However, the Navy’s Fleet Numerical Weather and Oceanography Center has opted to cease public data processing and sharing, officials reported.

The visible and infrared images show Hurricane Eric, which has intensified since the June 18th Category 2 storm.CIMSS

The Navy did not respond promptly to requests for comments.

Earlier this week, a Navy division informed researchers that it would halt data processing and sharing by June 30. Some researchers received notifications from the Navy’s Fleet Numerical Weather and Oceanography Center regarding their reliance on outdated and insecure operating systems.

“We cannot upgrade our systems; it raises cybersecurity risks and jeopardizes our DOD network,” stated an email reviewed by NBC News.

This decision could lead to forecasters losing up to half of the available microwave data, according to McNoldy.

Additionally, this microwave data is crucial for snow and ice researchers tracking polar sea ice levels, which helps understand long-term climate patterns. Sea ice, formed from frozen seawater, expands in winter and melts in summer. Tracking sea ice is essential as it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the planet. This metric is vital to monitor over time, especially since summer Arctic sea ice levels are showing declining trends due to global warming.

Walt Meier, a senior research scientist at the National Snow and Ice Data Center, mentioned that his program learned about the Navy’s decision earlier this week.

Meier noted the satellites and sensors have been operational for approximately 16 years. While researchers anticipated their eventual failure, they did not expect the military to abruptly discontinue data sharing with little notice.

Meier stated that the National Snow and Ice Data Center has depended on military satellites for sea ice coverage data since 1987 but will adapt by utilizing similar microwave data from Japanese satellites known as AMSR-2.

“Integrating that data into our system could take several weeks,” said Meier. “While it may not undermine the integrity of sea ice climate records, it will pose additional challenges.”

Polar orbit satellites, part of the Defense Weather Satellite Program, offer intermittent coverage of regions prone to hurricanes.

These satellites generally circle the Earth in a north-south path every 90 to 100 minutes at relatively low altitudes, according to Meier. The microwave sensors scan narrow bands of the Earth, estimated to be around 1,500 miles wide.

As the Earth rotates, these polar orbit satellites capture images that can help researchers analyze storm structure and potential strength when they are within range.

“Often, great passes provide extensive data beyond just the hurricane,” said McNoldy, who added that the loss will decrease the frequency of scans for areas covered by microwave scans and specific storms.

Hurricane modeler Andy Hazelton, an associate scientist at the University of Miami Ocean and Atmospheric Research Institute, mentioned that microwave data is still utilized in some hurricane models and by forecasters with access to real-time visualizations.

Hazelton highlighted that forecasters always look for visual cues from microwave data, which typically provides early indications of rapidly strengthening storms.

The National Hurricane Center defines rapid intensification as a 35 mph or greater increase in sustained winds in tropical storms within a 24-hour period. The loss of microwave data is particularly concerning as scientists have observed a rise in rapid intensification linked to climate change due to warmer seawater.

A 2023 scientific report indicated that tropical cyclones in the Atlantic have about a 29% higher likelihood of rapid intensification from 2001 to 2020 compared to the period from 1971 to 1990. For instance, Hurricane Milton was strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane just 36 hours after being classified as a tropical storm, with part of this intensification occurring overnight when other satellite equipment offered less information.

From the International Space Station, Hurricane Milton, a Category 5 storm, was captured on October 8th in the Gulf of Mexico off the Yucatan Peninsula.NASA/Getty Images

This trend poses significant risks, particularly when storms like Hurricane Idria intensify just before approaching the coast.

“We’ve definitely observed numerous instances of rapid intensification right before landfall recently, something we cannot afford to overlook,” McNoldy remarked.

Brian Lamare, a dedicated forecaster at the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, noted that this data is crucial for predicting flood impacts when hurricanes make landfall.

“These scans are key for predicting the areas of heaviest rainfall and the rates of rainfall,” said Lamarre. “This data is vital for public safety.”

Hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30, peaking at the end of summer and early fall. NOAA forecasters anticipate a busier hurricane season in 2025, with expectations of 6-10 hurricanes.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Nature Memories Review: A New Book Reveals the Critical Shortcomings of Our Natural History Museum

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

What are you missing? Contemplating the exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City

Jeffrey Greenberg/Group via Getty Images via Universal Image Group

Nature’s Memory
Jack Ashby (Allen Lane)

In his intriguing new book, Nature’s Memories: Behind the Scenes of the World’s Natural History Museum, Jack Ashby, assistant director of the University Zoology Museum in Cambridge, UK, describes the museum as a peculiar space. It represents societal meanings and the natural chronicles of our ecosystems and environments. However, these records are often fundamentally flawed and misleading.

Ashby emphasizes the museum’s role, particularly in natural history, as an extensive catalog of past life on our planet. Its original purpose was to document everything from flora to fauna and enhance our understanding of the natural world.

Times have changed. As Ashby reveals in this captivating work, he critiques the shortcomings of museums, challenging our preconceived notions. Notably, much of our natural history remains hidden in poorly lit storage rather than publicly displayed.

Readers will soon discover the significance of the areas typically off-limits to the public. Ashby notes that there are approximately 70,000 flowering plant species worldwide that scientists have yet to fully describe.

The book delves into the preservation processes for animal skeletons, highlighting how flesh is removed for conservation, how insects are prepared for display, and how taxidermy is conducted. These behind-the-scenes insights are among the book’s most intriguing aspects. Ashby also points out the unrealistic representation of frogs due to shrinkage and features a segment on a renowned glassmaker recognized for creating lifelike floral reproductions.

Yet, the lack of representation extends beyond plants. Ashby highlights the biases in what we learned during school trips to such institutions. He cites a 2008 study indicating that merely 29% of mammal displays and 34% of bird exhibits in natural history museums feature females, resulting in a limited understanding of habitat contributions. This imbalance can be attributed to the more visually appealing male specimens and the fact that those who collect and exhibit are predominantly male and often white Westerners.

Ashby advocates for addressing the misrepresentation issue within museums, asserting that our education about nature is severely lacking due to the biases of past generations. Many male mammalian skeletons are misrepresented in museum displays due to curatorial choices that remove pelvic bones.

Though the book was published prior to the intentional dismantling of American scientific institutions, it reflects the prevailing anti-expert sentiment. This makes it all the more vital to read. We must reflect on what is excluded from museum exhibits as seriously as we do what is included.

As Ashby asserts, “The work that is being done at the Natural History Museum is more crucial than ever, and the role that must be played in order to safeguard the future of humanity is just beginning to unfold.”

Chris Stokell Walker is a science writer based in Newcastle, UK.

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X-ray Enhanced Fabric Potentially Alleviates Mammogram Discomfort

Posted on June 28, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mammograms can be painful,

Dahlia Artemenko/Alamie

Getting X-rays can be quite uncomfortable. You might need to lie still while experiencing discomfort or as a part of your body is compressed. However, innovative flexible fabrics that enhance X-ray detection could alleviate this issue.

“Picture scanning your child for injuries and conducting a painless breast examination without requiring the child to stay still,” says Li Xu from the Hong Kong Institute of Technology. She and her team have developed a fabric known as X-Wear, which emits light when exposed to X-rays.

X-rays typically utilize scintillation components, which are harder to detect than visible light, in both medical and industrial applications. For example, they can convert rays that penetrate your limbs into visible light, allowing for the creation of images that reveal internal details like fractures. However, the current scintillators are usually rigid, which makes them uncomfortable for use in devices where they are embedded.

To tackle this issue, researchers have reformulated scintillating materials, like reshaping gadolinium oxide sprinkled with europium into fine fibers, which are then integrated into fabrics.

Xu mentions that crafting these fibers to be flexible while ensuring they emit sufficient light for producing high-resolution images when exposed to X-rays poses a technical challenge. Her team has demonstrated that fabrics can be utilized for dental X-rays – in tests, X-Wear adapted to the shape of a clay mouth model and teeth. It has also been used for mammography, where an X-Wear bra was created to eliminate the need for compressing a person’s breasts during imaging, a common current practice.

Imalka Jayawardena from the University of Surrey in the UK emphasizes that X-Wear’s body-compliant nature is a significant advantage over other flexible scintillator designs, which tend to be film-like and inflexible. However, he notes that the light detectors paired with X-Wear are still flat, limiting the fabric’s potential applications.

Currently, researchers can produce about a quarter of a square meter of X-Wear samples, meaning production must be scaled up and adapted for industrial-grade equipment before it can be used widely, according to Xu.

The team is also exploring X-Wear’s potential for industrial use, envisioning small, flexible devices for inspecting electronics and identifying defects in pipelines. Xu also notes that first responders in disaster zones could utilize X-Wear, equipped with smartphones and compact X-ray sources, for conducting on-site scans.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Lake of the Lake: Why Did Adam Roberts Opt for Utopia Over Dystopia in His Novel?

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Two spacecraft explore the black hole, highlighted in Adam Roberts’ novel.

Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo

The foundation of this novel stemmed from my desire to craft utopian fiction, a first for me, as my earlier works primarily revolved around traditional science fiction. The concept of utopia—portraying an improved or ideal world—predates science fiction itself, famously introduced by Thomas More in his 1516 work, Utopia.

Intrigued by the evolution of this genre, I noted that More’s Utopia inspired numerous copies. Over the subsequent 17th and 18th centuries, a multitude of utopian literature emerged. It flourished in the 19th century and continued into the 20th with notable works like Samuel Butler’s Erewhon (1872), William Morris’s News from Nowhere (1892), H.G. Wells’s A Modern Utopia (1905), and B.F. Skinner’s Walden Two (1948). Edward Bellamy’s Looking Backward (1888) stands out as a significant American bestseller, catalyzing the establishment of numerous “Bellamy Clubs” and a nationalist movement aimed at realizing his vision of utopia.

But what about our contemporary landscape? Utopian narratives seem largely relegated, replaced by an overwhelming prevalence of dystopian themes—the dark antithesis. Think of titles like The Hunger Games, Road, Divergent, and The Maze Runner, alongside numerous cyberpunk realms, Battle Royale, and Oryx and Crake. This raises an intriguing question: why has utopia fallen out of favor while dystopia thrives?

One potential explanation is that utopia inherently lacks conflict. When aspiring writers present their imaginative worlds, I often query, “Where’s the conflict?” Without conflict, there’s no drama or narrative. Crafting a perfect utopia is challenging because, by its nature, a flawless realm might lack the tension necessary for storytelling. I’ve often contended that no one truly writes a utopia, to which some might counter with Iain M. Banks’s Culture series as an example. Yet, Banks seldom delves into the euphoria of cultural existence, focusing instead on the dangers surrounding its covert agencies. In my own narrative, the characters are extricated from their utopian comforts, thrust into peril, monstrosities, and adventure.

However, I aspired to delve deeper and scrutinize the very essence of utopia itself. Is the ideal world even attainable? “Can we make the world a little better?”—this is certainly achievable, but can we fully reorganize society to achieve a flawless utopia?

Some years back, I was invited to deliver a keynote address at the Utopialess Conference, an annual event across Europe. During my visit to Tarragona, Spain, I presented my ideas, which can be summarized as follows: Utopia, as a concept, cannot elude the nuances of human nature. Some utopias manifest in authoritarian structures (as seen in More’s original vision), where the authority must reconcile power with utopian ideals. Conversely, others are grassroots endeavors, suggesting that with the removal of material or psychological ailments, humanity can coexist blissfully. I must express my skepticism; as literary critic John Carrey posits, all utopias share a fundamental desire to sanitize reality, simplifying the existence of actual human beings.

In my Utopial speech, I proposed that the most compelling representation of utopia in modern culture is a television series: Teletubbies. These entities—whether genetically modified posthumans, or simply whimsical beings—embody utopian principles, existing in a bubble of childlike simplicity where their needs are easily met, leading to constant joy. Yet, it’s unlikely that adults would perceive Teletubbyland as desirable. This suggests that the concept of utopia is somewhat infantilized. Following my lecture, I mingled at the reception, engaging with attendees. Some were dismissive and turned away when approached, a reaction clarified later by organizers. The conference attracted both literary scholars and true Utopians—those genuinely seeking to realize their visions. They felt I was mocking their aspirations.

I regret they felt insulted, but I stand by my interpretations in Lake of Darkness, where I intertwine social theory, imaginative technological elements, and distinct characters to explore utopian ideals.

Adam Roberts’ Lake of Darkness (Gollancz) is the latest selection for the New Scientist Book Club. Join us and read together here.

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AMOC: An Ambitious Strategy to Preserve Vital Ocean Currents Using Giant Parachutes

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Strategies to uphold the current involve oversized versions of parachute-like ocean anchors

Ed Darnen (2.0 by CC)

As part of an ambitious initiative to avert severe climate change, large parachutes could be deployed into Atlantic waters using transport tankers, drones, and fishing vessels.

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) moves warm water from the tropics northward and helps stabilize temperatures in Northern Europe.

Nevertheless, the swift melting of Arctic ice and rising sea temperatures have hampered these currents, prompting some scientists to warn that they could falter entirely within this century. Such an event would disrupt marine ecosystems and exacerbate the cooling of the European climate.

Experts emphasize the urgent need to cut greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the risk of AMOC collapse and other catastrophic climate “tipping points.” However, some are exploring alternative, more fundamental methods to preserve the current.

Stuart Haszeldine from the University of Edinburgh, along with David Sevier, introduced a concept from the British water treatment firm Strengite during a recent meeting in Cambridge, UK. They propose utilizing just 35 ocean tugs, each capable of pulling underwater parachutes roughly half the size of a soccer pitch, which could effectively move enough water to maintain the current. “A modest amount of energy and equipment can yield a significant impact,” Haszeldine remarks.

These parachutes, designed similarly to existing ocean anchors, stabilize containers in rough weather while also aiding in water movement across the sea surface. Each parachute features a central hole 12 meters wide to allow marine creatures to escape.

The operation would run 365 days a year in a rotating schedule, using drones, transport tankers, tugs, or wind kits. “It’s a small but consistent intervention,” notes Haszeldine.

Sevier refers to this proposal as “any Mary,” indicating a solution to stave off the severe consequences of AMOC collapse. “This is about buying time,” he asserts, emphasizing the need for the world to reduce emissions sufficiently to stabilize global temperatures at safe levels.

However, leading AMOC researchers express skepticism about the idea. Rene van Westen from the University of Utrecht, Netherlands, highlights that the density differences between cold, salty water and warm, fresh water play a crucial role in the descent and upwelling movements that sustain AMOC.

“If this idea is to work,” Van Westen argues, “you can only use surface wind to influence the top layer of water.

Stephen Rahmstoef from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research concurs. “The challenge lies not in moving surface water horizontally but in sinking it to depths of 2,000 to 3,000 meters and returning it south as a cold, deep current,” he states.

Meric Srokosz of the UK National Oceanography Centre believes the proposal is “unlikely to succeed,” given the variable weather conditions that complicate equipment deployment in the oceans.

Haszeldine welcomes feedback from fellow scientists regarding the proposal and hopes it will inspire ocean and climate modelers to assess the ecological and environmental ramifications of the plan. “I believe this warrants further investigation,” he asserts.

More generally, Haszeldine argues for increased research focused on climate intervention strategies to sustain ocean circulation: “I don’t see anyone else working on ocean currents.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Mathematicians Consistently Produce Tetrahedrons That Settle on the Same Side

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Self-correcting tetrahedron

Gergő Almádi et al.

SEI 257070964 — Self-correcting tetrahedron

Gergő Almádi et al.

Even decades after its initial proposition, a peculiar four-sided shape has been captured in mathematical intrigue, consistently resting on its desired side no matter how it lands.

The concept of self-righting shapes, particularly those with preferred resting positions on flat surfaces, has intrigued mathematicians for years. A notable example is the Gömböc—a curved object resembling a turtle shell, known for its unique weight distribution that allows it to rock back and forth until it finds its stable resting position.

In 1966, mathematician John Conway investigated the balance of geometric shapes. He established that four-sided shapes, or tetrahedrons, cannot achieve equilibrium through mass distribution. However, he speculated the existence of unevenly balanced tetrahedrons, though he did not provide concrete evidence.

Recently, Gábor Domokos from the Budapest Institute of Technology, along with his team, created a unique tetrahedral structure using carbon fiber struts and ultra-dense carbide plates. Its name, Viren, derives from Hungarian terminology.

Their journey began when Domokos tasked a student, Gerg Almádi, with using a high-powered computer to conduct a comprehensive search for Conway’s tetrahedron. “The goal was to examine all potential tetrahedrons. If we got lucky—or if computation power favored us—we might find something,” Domokos reflects.

True to Conway’s predictions, they didn’t locate a perfectly balanced tetrahedron but did identify several uneven candidates and confirmed their existence through mathematical proofs.

Determined to create a physical manifestation, Domokos found this task “significantly more complex.” Their calculations indicated that the density difference between the weighted and unweighted areas of the structure needed to be approximately 5000 times, essentially necessitating a material that’s predominantly air yet retains rigidity.

To fabricate their design, Domokos and his team collaborated with an engineering firm, investing thousands of euros to engineer carbon fiber struts with precision within a tenth of a millimeter and crafting a tungsten base plate with a variance of just a tenth of a gram.

When Domokos first witnessed a functioning prototype, he felt an overwhelming elation, remarking, “It was like rising a meter off the ground. The achievement was immensely satisfying, knowing it would bring joy to John Conway.”

“There was no blueprint, no prior example—essentially nothing suggesting to Conway that this form could exist,” Domokos adds. “This discovery was only possible with advanced computational power and considerable financial investment.”

The tetrahedron they’ve constructed follows a specific transition sequence between its sides, explaining that moving from B to A, C to A to C, and then to A can infer the necessary material distribution is indeed feasible.

Domokos envisions that their findings could inspire engineers to rethink the geometry of lunar landers, minimizing the risk of toppling, as has happened with some recent missions. “If we can achieve stability with four faces, similar principles could potentially apply to shapes with varying numbers of faces.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Kaliane Bradley’s Verdict on Time of Timeistry for the New Scientist Book Club: Thumbs Up!

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Kaliane Bradley’s The Ministry of Time awarded mixed reviews at the New Scientist Book Club

One of the wonderful elements of science fiction is its vastness, a notion emphasized by our two recent readings. The New Scientist Book Club has transitioned from Larry Niven’s classic hard sci-fi piece, Ring World, to Kalian Bradley’s Time Saving, which we’ll delve into this June. The former rigorously engages with scientific principles, while the latter takes a more relaxed approach.

The narrative revolves around an obscure civil servant tasked with assisting historical figures—specifically, the Victorian explorer Commander Graham Gore from 1847. Time Saving intertwines elements of thrillers, romance, and touches of climate fiction, making it an engaging read. Although I adored it, the conclusion left something to be desired, which I’ll elaborate on later. For now, let’s explore the sci-fi elements of the book.

In Bradley’s interpretation, time travel serves as a plot device; it facilitates the transition of characters from the past to contemporary settings. As she notes, “Once you start contemplating the physics of time travel, you’ve entered a tricky realm.” I don’t necessarily view her reluctance to clarify time travel as a weakness—after all, even our greatest physicists have yet to fully understand it, a sentiment shared by many.

“I accepted time travel as a given and shaped the primary plot around it. In the end, it’s approached similarly to numerous other sci-fi narratives.” Facebook Group. “Ultimately, this emphasis on plot and character development made me feel that the novel transcended mere science fiction, transforming into a story set against a sci-fi backdrop.”

Pauline Moncrief, who previously engaged with Time Saving, praised Bradley’s portrayal of time travel as “spot-on” due to its exploration of the paradoxes surrounding it—questions like, “What happens if you travel back and eliminate your grandfather?” This intriguing concern worked well. “Thus, I appreciated the author’s decision to smoothly bypass the technical hurdles typically associated with time travel,” she remarked.

Kristen Millard Shore expressed similar sentiments: “I appreciated the author’s casual handling of time travel—’Let’s not overthink this’ was refreshing.” However, Gosia Furmanik felt differently. While she enjoyed the prose’s creativity and vividness, she found the main plot confusing and felt it lacked urgency until the very end. For someone looking for a focused sci-fi exploration, she wondered if the romance and themes of immigration and identity overshadowed the genre elements.

Gosia might have a point, but I found the romance to be a highlight of the novel, even developing an affection for Commander Gore (which Bradley seemed to share—check out my interview with her for more on this historical crush). As a fan of romantic narratives, I found this aspect delightful. Others echoed my feelings, too.

“I usually don’t gravitate towards romance in books, but I found it well-executed here. Nevertheless, I felt the story encompassed more than just romance; it was enriching overall.”

Phil Gurski, however, took a different stance: “While I enjoyed the concept, it leaned more toward romance than sci-fi,” he noted. “The lengthy sex scene felt unnecessary.” Despite this divergence of opinions, I cherished many aspects of Time Saving, particularly Bradley’s subtle yet brilliant humor. The contrast of a character from the 19th century grappling with modernity—whether it’s Spotify or dishwashers—provided a delightful layer to the storytelling.

“I found myself laughing aloud numerous times,” Kristen concurred. “Especially during the conversations among the female characters about chicken wallets!” The chicken wallet scene was memorable and the interactions among the characters stood out. I found myself smitten, much like Margaret Kemble and Graham Gore did in 1665.

Gosia nodded in agreement regarding the humor: “Initial moments were quite amusing, like the EastEnders reference, but at times, that tone was overshadowed, leading to inconsistencies that detracted from my enjoyment.”

Now, let’s discuss the ending. Provision. Spoiler alert for those who haven’t finished yet! The revelation that Adela was a future version of our narrator caught me off guard, adding an engaging twist that prompted me to revisit earlier elements of the story with this new perspective. I believed these elements held up, though the rapid pace towards the conclusion felt a bit jumbled, especially since I was invested in the romance. I recognize the inherent “time travel” aspect of the story, but I still hoped for more closure.

David Jones echoed my feelings: “I finished and felt disappointed. I loved the characters and believed they deserved a more satisfying ending.” Alan pondered, “Does the author’s craftsmanship with engaging, thoughtful narratives get compromised by editorial constraints?” He felt the conclusion appeared forced and disconnected from the author’s original vision.

“By the 80% mark, I was questioning, ‘Where is this going?’ The narrative seemed too precious until the end, without sufficient payoff.”

Phil shared his thoughts in a Facebook group, stating that the next session’s readings should return to genuine science (fiction), with Lake of Darkness—a paper edition exploring black holes and their mysterious signals—on the horizon. Adam has penned brilliantly insightful essays for our readers, while Emily H. Wilson, a reviewer for New Scientist, expressed her fondness for Lake of Darkness upon its hardcover release, calling it “smart, experimental, and full of imaginative ideas,” eagerly anticipating the journey into an advanced future.

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Scientists Uncover Mars’ Unexpected Shape and Its Mysterious Origins

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mars may appear spherical, yet it is actually a triaxial ellipsoid. Unlike the other rocky planets in our solar system, which resemble rugby balls, Mars varies in size along all three axes.

This is most apparent in the notable bulge of the Tharsis rise region and the contrasting region known as Sirtis Major.

Astronomer Dr. Michael Efroysky of the US Navy Observatory recently proposed that this peculiar shape may be attributed to the absence of an ancient moon on Mars.

The moon, named Nerio after the Roman goddess of war, who was associated with Mars, influenced the shape of the planet through tidal forces, similar to the oceans here on Earth.

However, once Mars cooled down, its deformed shape became permanently fixed.

Mars is roughly half the size of Earth, with a diameter of 6,790km (4,219 miles) compared to Earth’s 12,750km (7,922 miles) – Credit: Mark Garlic via Getty/Science Photo Library

Nerio’s tidal stress weakened the elevated regions of Mars, facilitating the impact of geological processes such as internal convection, structural shifts, and volcanic activity, all of which contributed to Mars’ asymmetrical shape.

Researchers propose that, in synchronous orbit around Mars, Nerio—being less than a third of Earth’s mass—could easily have formed the planet’s initial triaxial shape. The equatorial bulge would have been even more pronounced if Nerio had existed during the planet’s magma ocean phase.

Currently, Mars lacks such a moon, having only the small moons Deimos and Phobos. At some point, Nerio was either destroyed by another large body or pulled away by gravitational forces.

This article answers the question posed by Otto Sykes in an email: “Why does Mars have such a strange shape?”

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

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Webb Identifies Potential Saturn-Mass Candidates Around Young Star Twa 7

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilize the exceptional sensitivity of the Mid-infrared instrument (Miri) on the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope to investigate exoplanets within the three-ring debris disks surrounding the 6.4 million-year-old star TWA 7.

This Webb/Miri image shows the exoplanet TWA 7b, comparable in mass to Saturn. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/WEBB/AM LAGRANGE/M. ZAMANI, ESA & WEBB.

Debris disks, comprised of dust and rocky materials, can exist around both young and evolved stars, but they are more luminous and detectable around younger celestial bodies.

These disks are often identified by their visible rings and gaps, which are believed to be shaped by planets that form within them.

The star TWA 7 is a low-mass (0.46 solar mass) M-type star situated approximately 111 light-years away in the constellation of Antlia.

Also referred to as Ce Antilae or Tyc 7190-2111-1, it is part of the TW Hydra Association.

The nearly edge-on three-ring fragmented disks make TWA 7 an optimal target for Webb’s highly sensitive mid-infrared observations.

“Our observations indicate a strong candidate for the planet that influences the structure of the TWA 7 debris disk, located precisely where we anticipated finding a planet of this mass,” states Dr. En Marie Lagrange, an astronomer at the Observatoire de Paris-PSL.

On June 21, 2024, Dr. Lagrange and colleagues employed a coronagraph with Webb’s Miri instrument to effectively suppress the bright glare of the host star, uncovering faint nearby objects.

This method, known as high contrast imaging, enables astronomers to directly observe planets that would otherwise be obscured by the overwhelming light of their host stars.

After eliminating residual starlight through advanced image processing, a faint infrared source was detected near TWA 7, distinguishable from background galaxies or other solar system objects.

This source is located within one of the three dust rings previously identified around TWA 7 by earlier ground-based investigations.

Its brightness, color, distance from the star, and position within the ring align with theoretical expectations for a young, cold Saturn-mass planet that shapes the surrounding debris disks.

“They are also the most popular and highly skilled professionals,” remarked Dr. Matilde Marin, an astronomer at Johns Hopkins University and the Institute for Space Telescope Science.

The team’s preliminary analysis suggests that the object known as TWA 7B has a mass approximately 0.3 times that of Jupiter (about 100 times that of Earth) and may be a young, cold exoplanet with a temperature of 320 K (around 47°C).

Its positioning (approximately 52 AU from the star) corresponds with a gap in the disk, indicating a dynamic interaction between the planet and its surroundings.

Once corroborated, this discovery marks the first direct link between a planet and the structure of debris, offering initial observational insights into the Trojan disk.

“These findings underscore Webb’s capability to probe previously unobservable low-mass planets orbiting nearby stars,” the astronomer commented.

“Ongoing and future observations will seek to more accurately characterize candidates, investigate the state of their atmospheres, and enhance our understanding of planet formation in young systems and the evolution of disks.”

“This preliminary result represents an exciting new frontier where Webb sheds light on the discovery and characterization of exoplanets.”

These findings are detailed in a publication in the journal Nature.

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Lagrange et al. Evidence of sub-Jovian planets within the young TWA 7 disk. Nature Published online on June 25th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09150-4

Source: www.sci.news

Dog-Sized Neon Cyan Dinosaur Unearthed in Colorado

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Exciting discovery of a new genus and species of neornithischian dinosaur named Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae. This dinosaur is recognized from its three-dimensionally preserved postcranial skeleton unearthed in the Morrison Formation in Colorado, USA.

Life reconstruction of Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae. Image credit: Bob Nichols.

Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae inhabited our planet during the late Jurassic period, approximately 150-145 million years ago.

This dinosaur was a bipedal herbivore standing about 0.5 m (1.6 feet) tall and measuring over 1 m (3.3 feet) in length.

It would have navigated the floodplains of the western United States alongside giants like diplodocus and Stegosaurus.

“There are indications that these dinosaurs are not fully mature. The upper vertebrae (neuronal arch) are formed separately and fused at the lower section, suggesting incomplete fusion,” noted Paul Barrett, a paleontologist at the Museum of Natural History in London, alongside Susannah Maidment.

The partial but well-preserved skeletons, along with several associated teeth, were excavated in 2021 and 2022 from a commercial quarry in Moffat County, Colorado, within the Morrison Formation.

Initially, this specimen was classified as Nanosaurus, a lesser-known herbivorous dinosaur first named in the 1870s.

However, upon thorough examination, paleontologists determined that the original Nanosaurus specimen was too poorly preserved to serve as a reliable reference for identification.

As a result, they set aside the name until higher quality fossils of Nanosaurus could ensure taxonomic stability.

The differences between the original and newly found specimens confirmed the classification as a new genus and species.

“The discovery of Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae enhances our understanding of the diversity of ornithischian dinosaurs from the Morrison Formation and provides new insights into their anatomy,” researchers explained.

“Moreover, it highlights a previously unrecognized diversity among the small Morrisonian dinosaurs, suggesting they represent a more diverse component of these late Jurassic ecosystems than previously acknowledged.”

A paper detailing Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae was published this week in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

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Susanna CR Maid & Paul M. Barrett. 2025. Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae, a neornithischian dinosaur from the Jurassic Morrison Formation in the western United States. R. Soc. Open Sci. 12(6): 242195; doi: 10.1098/rsos.242195

Source: www.sci.news

Study Reveals Cambrian Explosions Happened Millions of Years Sooner Than Previously Believed

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have studied the body shapes of Ediacaran Cambrian organisms by utilizing trace fossils as a stand-in for body fossils.

Reconstruction of early Cambrian marine life in southern China. Image credit: Dongjing Fu.

The Cambrian explosion is often referred to as a pivotal period in Earth’s history when distinct animal body plans emerged.

Most researchers indicate that this event took place between 541 and 530 million years ago, marking the onset of the Cambrian period.

“The Cambrian explosion represents a significant era in the history of life that poses numerous unresolved questions,” stated Dr. Olmo Miguez Saras from the University of Barcelona at the Museum of Natural History in London, alongside Dr. Zekun Wang.

“In investigating biodiversity during this period, paleontological studies primarily concentrate on organisms with hard structures.”

“Nevertheless, microfossil investigations open avenues for understanding the activities of hard, soft-bodied, or skeletal-deficient organisms preserved in stratigraphic records.”

“The microfossil evidence is essential for shedding light on the evolutionary phases dominated by soft-bodied faunas.”

“Fossil traces mirror the behaviors of habitat-forming organisms, determined by their environment and reactions to ecological factors.”

“Consequently, these traces act as indicators of the paleoecological conditions experienced by the organisms that produced them.”

In their research, the authors concentrated on trace fossils from the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition, a period of great paleobiological interest that represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of complex life on Earth.

This transition experienced substantial shifts in biodiversity as well as the structure of organisms and ecosystems.

“The Ediacaran fauna consisted mainly of complex, multicellular, flexible organisms,” noted Dr. Miguez Saras.

“The shift to the Cambrian era involved numerous extinctions within the Ediacaran fauna, accompanied by a rapid diversification of complex multicellular organisms possessing hard structures (e.g., exoskeletons).”

“This encapsulates the core of evolutionary development that led to the emergence of the most modern animal phyla, commonly referred to as the Cambrian Explosion.”

The research indicates that slender-bodied organisms thrived around 545 million years ago during the Ediacaran period.

“These organisms likely possessed a coelomic hydrostatic body with an anteroposterior axis, muscles, and perhaps segmented structures,” Dr. Miguez Saras explained.

“Additionally, these organisms may have exhibited directional movement and possessed sensory capabilities to navigate and feed on diverse substrates in environments dominated by microbial mats.”

“Thus, the so-called Cambrian explosion and its evolutionary significance could have arisen significantly earlier than previously thought.”

“These adaptations in body shape and mobility facilitated early animals in thriving within increasingly dynamic and complex environments, an ecological engineering process that could spur evolutionary innovation.”

The team’s study is slated for publication in the journal Geological.

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Zekun Wang & Olmo Miguez-Salas. Quantitative decoding of Ediacaran Motion Microfossil Morphology: Evidence for the appearance of elongated anteroposterior body profiles. Geological Published online on June 9th, 2025. doi: 10.1130/g53332.1

Source: www.sci.news

Fireball Captures Spectacular Meteor Shower Lighting Up the Southeastern US Sky

Posted on June 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A fireball was spotted soaring through the sky in the southeastern United States on Thursday afternoon, coinciding with reports of a meteor shower in the region, according to officials.

A representative from Forsyth County Emergency Management in Georgia stated that the meteor shower, validated by the National Weather Service, was still visible hours after the initial sighting.

The representative noted that there have been no reports of impacts or injuries, and monitoring of the showers is ongoing.

Earlier, the National Weather Service office in Charleston indicated that just before noon, there were “numerous reports of fireballs” across the area.

“While it’s not confirmed, satellite-based lightning detection indicated markings in the clear sky above the NC/VA border in Gasbury, Virginia,” reported between 11:51 am and 11:56 am the weather service noted at the time.

A video circulating on social media displays a fireball descending into a wooded area in South Carolina.

Kathryn Far posted a dashcam video taken while driving south on Interstate 85 toward Anderson, South Carolina, around 12:25 pm.

A video shared on social media shows a fireball being shot down into a wooded area of South Carolina.
Kathryn Rose Fur via Facebook

“It’s not something you witness every day.” She mentioned on Facebook.

Another perspective from Andrew Colley Road in Lexington, South Carolina depicted suspected meteor stones blazing bright white with an orange flame tail before vanishing into a wooded area.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia reported that the weather department has informed them that the fireball is likely a meteor.

“Currently, there is no information on where the meteor may have landed.” The sheriff’s office stated, noting that fireballs have been reported by residents in Covington and nearby areas.

Marlene Lenthang

Marlene Lenthang is a news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Rebecca Cohen I contributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com