A new method using small, lab-grown vascular structures has effectively restored blood flow to injured tissue in mice, significantly reducing necrosis. This technique shows promise for mitigating damage caused by injuries or blood clots in the future.
Previously, researchers developed vascular organoids by immersing human stem cells in a mix of chemicals, a process that took weeks and often resulted in structures that did not accurately replicate natural blood vessels, according to Juan Melero-Martin from Harvard University.
In a new approach, Melero-Martin and his team genetically modified human stem cells derived from reprogrammed skin cells. By introducing a genetic sequence and the antibiotic doxycycline, they were able to create vascular organoids in just five days. “The resulting blood vessels exhibited protein and gene activity levels closely resembling those of natural human tissues,” notes Melero-Martin.
To evaluate the organoids’ ability to rehabilitate damaged tissue, the researchers surgically obstructed the blood supply to one leg of several mice, reducing blood flow to less than 10% of normal. After an hour, they introduced 1,000 organoids at the injury site.
Two weeks post-implantation, imaging revealed that the new blood vessels had integrated with the existing ones, restoring blood flow to approximately 50% of normal levels, as stated by Oscar Abiles at Stanford University. “In cases of heart attacks, restoring even this amount of blood flow can significantly minimize tissue damage.”
Post-treatment, about 75% of the mice exhibited minimal dead tissue, while in a control group without organoid treatment, nearly 90% experienced severe tissue death.
In additional trials, the team treated mice with type 1 diabetes with organoids, which had caused pancreatic damage and elevated blood glucose levels. They discovered that integrating organoids with pancreatic tissue transplantation greatly enhanced glycemic control compared to transplantation alone.
However, further studies involving larger animals such as pigs are essential before considering human trials, Abirez states. Melero-Martin anticipates that human research could begin within five years.
Besides facilitating tissue repair, these findings may lead to the development of lab-grown mini-organs that more accurately represent bodily functions or even mini-tumors for research and treatment testing.
“Until recently, organoids lacked blood vessels and could only grow to a limited size. Beyond a few millimeters, they began to perish,” explains Abirez. “This study offers a method to incorporate blood vessels into organoids, thus enhancing their fidelity to human physiology and aiding treatment development.”
These stunning and eerie visuals showcase creatures born in Europe’s largest jellyfish breeding facility.
Photographer Heidi and Hans Jurgen Koch utilized a macro lens and studio lighting to create these images, though I was particularly intrigued by the jellyfish’s location, which cannot be photographed as it sinks to the bottom of a typical aquarium. The animals require “jellyfish” Kraisel or gyroscopes to generate necessary water movements; without them, swimming and feeding is impossible.
Moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita)
Heidi and Hans Jurgen Koch
As jellyfish populations grow, they are increasingly seen as both an environmental challenge and a source of sustainable solutions, Koch asserts. With ocean temperatures rising, and issues like pollution and overfishing becoming more pressing, jellyfish numbers are surging, posing serious risks to ecosystems and economies.
Mangrove Jellyfish (Cassiopea xamachana)
Heidi and Hans Jurgen Koch
Nevertheless, jellyfish also offer significant potential, including uses as animal feed, fertilizers, and even superfoods for humans, thanks to their anti-inflammatory and immunologically beneficial compounds. Their mucus can also serve as biofilters to keep plastics out of the oceans.
Pacific Compass Jellyfish (Chrysaora fuscescens) is featured in the main image. These jellyfish will be sent to zoos, aquariums, and research facilities. Below, the gyroscope simulates ocean currents for the Moon Jellyfish (Aurelia aurita). The pipette in the photograph shows Mangrove Jellyfish (Cassiopea xamachana).
Heidi and Hans Jurgen Koch
As they mature, jellyfish reside on the seafloor, orienting their tentacles toward sunlight, where they have a symbiotic relationship with single-celled algae that assist with photosynthesis. The image above depicts jellyfish specimens being evaluated prior to shipment.
Upon receiving a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2023, particle physicist and Oxford University professor emeritus Frank Close underwent three weeks of radiation therapy, which provided him with a new understanding of radiation’s capabilities.
His 10-year-old grandson shared a detailed account of Emperor Bomba, a 50-megaton nuclear device tested by the Soviet Union in 1961, marking the most powerful human-made explosion. This prompted Close to elucidate the complexities of nuclear energy, highlighting its dual nature as both a power source and a peril.
A three-time winner of the British Science Writers Association Award, Close is well-versed in the intricacies of subatomic physics. His latest work, Destroyers of the World: Deep History of the Nuclear Age 1895-1965, starts with the Trinity Test Blast in July 1945, signifying the moment chemical explosions transitioned to nuclear ones. He takes readers on a historical journey beginning with 1896, when the first atomic traces sparked interest in the nuclear age.
The narrative features 19th-century scientist William Crookes, who delved into spiritualism after his brother’s death, observing “bright green clouds” in a gas-filled, charged vacuum tube. He believed he had synthesized external organisms and discovered phantoms. Theoretical physicist George Gamow is also mentioned, demonstrating that uranium can release charged alpha particles without contradicting energy conservation principles.
Close’s primary focus, however, revolves around the often-overlooked contributions of female physicists in the nuclear arena. He discusses Lise Meitner, who, despite holding a PhD, was banned from a male-only room at the University of Vienna. This didn’t thwart her efforts alongside Otto Hahn to provide X-rays for World War I injuries or her 1917 discovery of protactinium, element 91. In 1925, she was awarded the Lieven Prize, which marked a significant academic achievement.
He also highlights Elaine Joliot-Curie, the daughter of Marie Curie and Pierre Curie, who possessed her parents’ scientific prowess. In a notable scandal in 1910, Marie faced exclusion from the French Academy of Sciences due to her relationship with a married physicist. Elaine sought to defend her family’s legacy, underscoring work she conducted with her husband, Frédéric Joliot. The 1932 announcement of the neutron by James Chadwick shifted the course of nuclear physics.
Furthermore, Close examines the contributions of chemist Aida Noddack, who argued that uranium nuclei could be split into lighter isotopes but faced backlash from a male-dominated field. Noddack’s position as an industrial chemist challenged the established norms of elite nuclear physics.
In Destroyers of the World, Close also addresses the enigma surrounding Ettore Majorana, a theoretical physicist revered by Enrico Fermi, who mysteriously vanished in 1938. Speculation about Majorana’s fate has ranged from suicide to escaping fascism in Italy, but as with many similar cases, certainty eludes us.
As we navigate through the radioactive haze, one fact remains evident: many extraordinary individuals played pivotal roles in unleashing the Nuclear Demon from its confines.
George Bass is a writer based in Kent, UK.
New Scientist Book Club
Do you enjoy reading? Participate in a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we explore exciting new titles, offering members exclusive access to book excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.
Listening to the leaders of AI companies suggests that the coming decade will transform human history profoundly. We’re entering an era described as “radical abundance,” which presents an optimistic view reminiscent of groundbreaking advancements in high-energy physics and aspirations for space colonization. Yet, the experience of researchers working with today’s leading AI systems reveals a contrasting narrative. In practice, even the top-performing models struggle with basic tasks that most individuals find simple. So, who should we trust?
According to Sam Altman of OpenAI and Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind, a transformative AI system is on the horizon. In Altman’s blog post, he predicts that the 2030s will usher in significant changes compared to prior decades, suggesting that breakthroughs in materials science might enable high-bandwidth brain-computer interfaces within just a year.
Hassabis also projects a fruitful decade ahead in an interview with Wired, claiming that artificial general intelligence (AGI) will tackle major challenges like the treatment of severe diseases, potentially leading to improved health and longevity. He confidently states, “If all this transpires…”
This ambitious outlook heavily relies on the premise that larger language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT can effectively utilize more data and computing power. While this “scaling approach” has proven successful in recent years, signs have begun to signal a slowdown. For instance, OpenAI’s latest GPT-4.5 model demonstrated only modest gains over its predecessor, GPT-4, despite likely costing hundreds of millions to train. Such expenditures pale compared to future investments; Meta is poised to announce a $15 billion investment aimed at realizing “superintelligence.”
Yet, the sole approach to resolving these challenges isn’t merely financial. AI companies are shifting towards “inference” models like OpenAI’s O1, which was introduced last year. These models require more computational resources, taking longer to generate responses while processing their output iteratively, mimicking a human-like “thinking” process. Noam Brown from OpenAI cautioned about AI’s limitations, noting last year that both the O1 model and its iterations indicate that “scaling methods” can indeed progress.
Nevertheless, recent studies reveal that these inference models can falter even on straightforward logic challenges. Research conducted by Apple scientists found that AI models, including Deepseek’s inference model and Anthropic’s Claude Thinking model, encountered obstacles during basic tasks. The study highlighted that while the models demonstrated limitations in accurate computations, they frequently failed to apply explicit algorithms and reasoning consistently.
The researchers tested AI performance on various puzzles, including scenarios where individuals must transport items using the least number of moves, as well as the Tower of Hanoi challenge requiring sequential movement without placing larger discs atop smaller ones. Although the models could tackle simpler instances, they struggled as complexity increased. This research suggests that while more intricate problems may require longer contemplation from AI, the reduced number of “tokens” (information bundles) indicates that the apparent “thinking” time of the models may be deceptive.
“It’s concerning that these can be easily resolved,” remarked Artur Garcez from the University of London. “We mastered symbolic AI inference techniques for these tasks half a century ago.” Although enhancements and fixes could eventually enable these new systems to tackle complex problems, Garcez suggests that merely increasing the model size or computational capabilities is unlikely to be a panacea.
These models also illustrate their persistent difficulties in addressing scenarios they haven’t encountered in their training data, remarked Nicos Aletras from the University of Sheffield. “In practical terms, while they excel at information retrieval, summarization, and related tasks due to their training, they can come off as impressive without being truly adaptive,” Aletras concluded. “Apple’s research has undoubtedly highlighted a significant blind spot.”
Additionally, other research indicates that extending “thinking” duration could detrimentally affect AI model performance. Soumya Suvra Ghosal and colleagues at the University of Maryland analyzed Deepseek’s model and uncovered that prolonged “thinking chains” reduced accuracy in mathematical inference tests. In a mathematical benchmark, they found that tripling the number of tokens enhanced performance by around 5%, but using 10-15 times the tokens led to a decline of roughly 17% in scores.
In certain instances, the “chain of thought” generated by AI bears little relation to the eventual answer it provides. When testing Deepseek’s navigation abilities in a simple maze, Subbarao Kambhampati from Arizona State University discovered that even when the AI solved the issue, its “chain of thought” contained mistakes not reflected in its final answer. Moreover, presenting AI with an irrelevant “chain of thought” sometimes improved the accuracy of its responses.
“Our findings challenge the common belief that intermediate tokens or ‘thought strands’ provide a meaningful trace of internal inference in AI models,” Kambhampati stated.
All recent studies assert that the terms “thinking” and “inference” in relation to these AI models are misleading, according to Anna Rogers at the University of Copenhagen. “Many leading techniques I’ve encountered in this field have historically been accompanied by vague, cognitively-inspired analogies that ultimately proved incorrect.”
Andreas Vlachos from Cambridge University observed that while LLMs have distinct applications in text generation and other tasks, recent insights imply that Altman and Hassabis may face difficulties confronting the complex challenges they anticipate solving in the near future.
“There is an inherent conflict between their model training—predictions based on the forthcoming words—and our objectives, which involve generating true inferences,” Vlachos remarked.
On the other hand, OpenAI maintains a different stance. A spokesperson remarked, “Our research indicates that chain-like inference methodologies can significantly enhance performance on complex problems, and we are actively pursuing advancements in training, evaluation, and model design.” Deepseek has yet to comment on requests for input.
For centuries, humanity has been intrigued by the possibility of encountering advanced civilizations beyond our planet. But what if such a society existed on Earth long before humans evolved?
In 2018, physicist Professor Adam Frank and climate modeler Dr. Gavin Schmidt published a paper exploring whether modern science might uncover traces of an extinct industrial civilization from millions of years ago. The paper is available here.
Dubbed “Silur’s Hypothesis,” after the advanced reptilian species from the long-running BBC science fiction series Doctor Who, the researchers concluded that, while unlikely, evidence of such a civilization may be elusive.
The study focuses on the timeframe between 400 million and 4 million years ago, investigating what remnants this hypothetical society might have left behind.
Over just a few centuries, our industries have significantly altered global climate and ecosystems. If humanity were to vanish over millions of years, however, any direct evidence of our society would likely fade away.
Our largest cities could vanish within a geological instant due to erosion and tectonic activity.
Consequently, scientists searching for an ancient civilization should look for geological signatures of their existence.
Advanced civilizations, much like modern humans, would demand substantial energy and food production. As a result, we might anticipate similar indicators in Earth’s geologic layers, such as evidence of extensive carbon emissions, climate change, and rising sea levels.
Should pyramids reminiscent of alien architecture have been constructed by lost ancient civilizations millions of years ago, Silur’s Hypothesis suggests that discovering them would be quite unlikely.
The challenge lies in distinguishing climate change caused by fossil fuel-dependent civilizations from that induced by natural processes in the geological record.
Interestingly, there is a striking resemblance between current climate change and historical events on Earth referred to as “hyperthermal” events. One such instance occurred around 55 million years ago, where global temperatures surged by up to 8°C (14.4°F) and were accompanied by intense geological upheavals.
Another consideration is that the longer a sophisticated civilization endures, the more evidence it generates. However, for a civilization to have longevity, it must be sustainable, leading to reduced geological traces.
For instance, a civilization relying on wind and solar energy would leave less physical evidence compared to one powered by fossil fuels. This paradox explains why the traces of such civilizations, if they indeed existed, would be infrequent.
Silur’s Hypothesis encourages us to reflect on the imprints humanity leaves behind. Addressing these inquiries may enhance our search for advanced civilizations on other planets.
This article answers the question posed by Exeter’s Joshua Stucky: “If advanced civilizations lived on Earth millions of years ago, could we recognize their existence?”
For your inquiries, please reach out to usat Question @sciencefocus.com or MessageFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
Discover our ultimateFun fact and explore more amazing science pages!
Tracing the world’s oldest cheese is challenging, but direct evidence shows that humans have been consuming milk for millennia.
Archaeologists have discovered milk residues in ancient pottery from various locations worldwide.
Research on carbon isotopes of fatty acids from pot residues reveals that humans have been consuming milk in the UK since 4000 BC. However, in Anatolia, a region in Türkiye noted for its Neolithic agriculture, evidence suggests milk consumption dates back even earlier to around 7000 BC.
Farmers in Anatolia were widely mobile. Although milk fat residues often degrade over thousands of years underground, the sheer number of ceramic pieces found leads scientists to speculate that these early peoples were likely producing long-lasting dairy products like cheese.
When milk is transformed into cheese, lactose levels decrease, helping to mitigate lactose intolerance, which was common across Europe. It wasn’t until approximately 3,000 years ago that genetic mutations became prevalent, enabling adults to produce lactase.
A 2023 study from York University found protein structures in a Polish late Neolithic pot, suggesting it contained cheese made from the milk of cows, goats, and sheep.
The oldest surviving cheese sample dates back about 3,500 years – Illustration credits: Jessley
The oldest cheese sample still known today is approximately 3,500 years old and was found around the neck of a Bronze Age mummy in the Xiaohe Cemetery in northwestern China.
A team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted an analysis of this specimen, identifying it as kefir cheese (fermented bacterial milk). The scientists found DNA from various bacteria and yeast species, including Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens and Pichia kudriavzevii, which are present in kefir today.
They hypothesize that the lump could represent a kefir starter grain, a concentrated bacterial colony used to initiate cheese fermentation. These grains were likely regarded as valuable offerings for the afterlife in ancient times.
This article addresses the question, “What is the oldest cheese in the world?” posed by Scott Mills of Watford.
Feel free to reach out with your questions atQuestion @sciencefocus.com or message us onFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
Discover more in our ultimateFun fact and explore more fascinating science pages.
Mercury pollution resulting from early coal burning and gold mining continues to affect Arctic wildlife over a century later. New research published in Natural Communication reveals these enduring effects.
Despite worldwide efforts to limit emissions, mercury levels in apex predators like Arctic and toothed whales remain alarmingly high. Researchers attribute this persistence to legacy contamination that travels through ocean currents to the Arctic region.
A research team has analyzed more than 700 samples collected across Greenland over the last 40 years, ranging from animal tissues to ground peat. By evaluating the chemical “fingerprints” of mercury isotopes, they discovered that mercury concentrations have not declined and, in some cases, remain elevated in Arctic ecosystems.
“This provides insight into why we haven’t seen a decrease in Arctic mercury levels,” stated Professor Runeatz, a co-author of the study. “Mercury transport from significant sources like China to Greenland can take up to 150 years.”
Mercury released into the atmosphere through human activities can circulate the globe for approximately a year before settling. However, once it enters the ocean, it may persist for centuries, gradually moving northward through deep, cold currents.
For instance, Central West Greenland is influenced by Atlantic influx via the North Atlantic Arminger current, while other areas receive mercury-laden water from the Arctic current.
Beluga-like tooth whales today have mercury concentrations up to 30 times greater than before the Industrial Revolution – Getty
Currently, mercury concentrations in polar bears and toothed whales are 20-30 times higher than pre-industrial levels.
“We don’t have evidence of actual killings of top predators,” Dietz commented. According to an email from BBC Science Focus, “However, the loads in toothed whales and polar bears, along with Inuit populations in highly exposed areas, are significant enough to indicate neurological effects.”
As a potent neurotoxin, mercury can harm immune and reproductive health. Naturally occurring elements are extremely dangerous, as noted by the World Health Organization, which lists it as “one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern.”
The findings carry significant implications for the United Nations Mamata Treaty, a global initiative aimed at decreasing mercury pollution. While reduction of emissions is crucial, the study implies that the Arctic may require generations to see recovery.
The research team will continue to explore mercury’s impact on vulnerable Arctic ecosystems. Dietz emphasizes that modeling how long mercury takes to travel from major emitters like China to various Arctic regions could be essential for understanding long-term threats.
Read more:
About our experts
Rune Deets is a professor at the Faculty of Ecoscience at Aarhus University. His research has been published in peer-reviewed journals including Environmental Research, Molecular Ecology, and Ecology and Evolution.
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is new research published in Cell Reports Sustainability.
The accelerating demand for lithium, an essential element of EV batteries, is expected to outstrip domestic supply in major markets by the decade’s end.
This analysis highlights China, the US, and Europe, which collectively represent 80% of current EV sales. Researchers caution that without significant changes, these regions may not fulfill their lithium requirements from local sources by 2030, leading to an increased reliance on imports and a heightened risk of global shortages.
“Many previous studies have examined the lithium necessary for low-carbon transitions,” said Dr. Andre Manberger, a co-author of the new study, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
“The issue is that often we compare projected lithium demand with current mining rates and existing reserves. However, there’s a gap in the existing literature concerning mining feasibility.”
Globally, EV sales surpassed 17 million in 2024, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.
The International Energy Agency forecasts that electric vehicles could represent 40% of all car sales by 2030. However, this expansion hinges on a stable supply of lithium carbonate equivalents (LCE).
The study indicates that by 2030, annual LCE demand will reach 1.3 million tonnes in China, 792,000 metric tonnes in Europe, and 692,000 in the US. Yet, even if all current and planned mining projects are considered, domestic supply remains inadequate: China could produce up to 1.1 million tonnes, the US 610,000, and Europe only 325,000.
This shortfall could intensify global competition for lithium, primarily sourced from Australia, Chile, and Argentina. In 2023, these three countries accounted for nearly 80% of the world’s lithium.
Almost 50% of the world’s lithium was mined in Australia in 2023.
China currently dominates the global lithium market, and an increase in its imports could negatively impact other buyers. Researchers found that should China’s imports rise by 77%, the US and European imports could drop by 84% and 78%, respectively.
“Commodity trading tends to have a lot of continuity and path dependence,” Månberger explains.
“This is due to the established supply chain, contracts, and overall inertia in the market.”
Nonetheless, there are reasons for optimism. Increasing lithium prices may drive investments in new mining initiatives and motivate manufacturers to create more efficient battery technologies. Alternatives like sodium-ion batteries could also contribute to a more diverse market.
In the long term, recycling could assume a more substantial role. As first-generation EVs reach the end of their lifespans in the 2030s, materials extracted from older batteries could mitigate the need for new lithium extraction.
“I’m very optimistic,” says Månberger. “Historically, while it’s often straightforward to forecast potential bottlenecks and supply risks, innovations tend to emerge unpredictably when these challenges arise.”
Read more:
About our experts
Andre Manberger is a senior lecturer in Environmental and Energy Systems Studies at Lund University, Sweden. He leads the Misttra Mineral Governance Research Program, initiated in 2024, focusing on the rising demand for critical raw materials and addressing conflicts of interest in the low-carbon transition.
All previously observed images were captured from the Sun’s equatorial region. This is due to the fact that Earth, along with other planets and operational spacecraft, orbits the Sun in a flat disk known as the zodiac plane. By adjusting its orbit away from this plane, the ESA Solar Orbiter spacecraft unveils the Sun from an entirely new perspective.
A lower-half image of the Sun, highlighting a square area around its Antarctic. Captured in ultraviolet rays, it reveals hot gases in the Sun’s corona, glowing yellow as they extend outwards with threads and loops. Image credits: ESA/NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/EUI Team/D. Berghmans, Rob.
Professor Carol Mandel, ESA’s Director of Science, remarked:
“The Sun, being our closest star, is essential for life but can also disrupt modern power systems in space and on Earth. Therefore, understanding its mechanisms and predicting its behavior is crucial.”
“The new and unique perspectives provided by the Solar Orbiter mission signal the beginning of a new era in solar science.”
The images were captured by three different scientific instruments on the Solar Orbiter: Polarimetry and Helioseismology Imager (PHI), Extreme Ultraviolet Imager (EUI), and Spectral Imaging of the Coronal Environment (SPICE).
“Initially, I was uncertain of what to anticipate from these observations. The solar pole is truly a Terra Incognita,” said Professor Sami Solanki, leader of the PHI team at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research.
This collage shows the Antarctic of the Sun captured on March 16-17, 2025, as the solar orbiter observed from a 15° angle relative to the solar equator. This marked the first high-angle observation campaign just days before achieving its current maximum viewing angle of 17°. Image credits: ESA/NASA/Solar Orbiter/PHI/EUI/SPICE Team.
Each instrument on the Solar Orbiter observes the Sun differently.
PHI captures images of the Sun in visible light (top left) and maps its surface magnetic field (top center).
EUI images the Sun in ultraviolet light (top right), unveiling the corona, a multi-million-degree gas layer in the Sun’s outer atmosphere.
SPICE captures light from various temperatures of charged gases at the Sun’s surface, thereby revealing different layers of its atmosphere.
By analyzing and comparing observations from these three imaging instruments, we can understand how materials in the Sun’s outer layer move.
This could uncover unexpected patterns like polar vortices (swirling gases), reminiscent of those found around the poles of Venus and Saturn.
These innovative observations are crucial for understanding the solar magnetic field, particularly why it inverts every 11 years, aligning with peaks in solar activity.
Current predictive models for the 11-year solar cycle struggle to accurately forecast when and how the Sun will reach its peak activity.
One of the primary scientific discoveries from Solar Orbiter’s polar observations is that the solar magnetic field is currently disordered in the Antarctic region.
While traditional magnets exhibit defined Arctic and Antarctic poles, magnetic measurements from the PHI instrument demonstrate that both polarities exist in the Antarctic region of the Sun.
This phenomenon occurs only briefly during each solar cycle when the magnetic field is reversed at the solar maximum.
Following this reversal, a single polarity gradually takes over the solar pole.
After 5-6 years, the Sun reaches the minimum phase of its cycle, during which its magnetic field is most organized, resulting in the lowest activity levels.
“How this accumulation occurs is not fully understood, so the timing of the solar orbiter’s high latitude observations is remarkably advantageous for tracking the entire process,” noted Professor Solanki.
PHI’s perspective on the solar magnetic field contextualizes these measurements.
The intensity of color (red or blue) signifies the strength of the magnetic field along the line of sight from the solar orbiter to the Sun.
The strongest magnetic fields manifest as two bands flanking the solar equator.
Dark red and blue regions highlight areas of concentrated magnetic fields associated with solar spots on the Sun’s surface (photosphere).
Additionally, both the Antarctic and Arctic regions exhibit red and blue spots, indicating a complex, constantly evolving solar magnetic structure on a smaller scale.
Another noteworthy discovery from the Solar Orbiter comes from the SPICE instrument.
This imaging spectrograph analyzes light (spectral lines) emitted by specific chemical elements such as hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, neon, and magnesium, at known temperatures.
Over the last five years, SPICE has employed this method to uncover processes occurring in various layers of the Sun’s surface.
For the first time, the SPICE team was able to utilize precise spectral line tracing to measure the velocity of moving solar material.
This technique, known as “Doppler measurement,” is named after the effect observed with an ambulance siren as it approaches and recedes, causing a change in pitch.
The resulting velocity map illustrates the movement of solar material within specific solar layers.
“Measurements from high latitudes, made possible with the Solar Orbiter, will revolutionize solar physics,” stated Dr. Frederic Aucele, leader of the SPICE team at Paris Sacree University.
In their recent study, planetary scientist Nina Lanza and her team at the Los Alamos National Laboratory explored the necessary steps to transform Mars’ surface into a more Earthlike environment, and what actions are required now if we aspire to make the Red Planet capable of sustaining human life in the future.
Impressions of terraformed Mars artists. Image credits: Daein Ballard/CC by-sa 3.0.
“Believe it or not, since 1991, there has been no comprehensive examination of Mars’ viability for terraforming,” stated Dr. Lanza.
“Since that time, we have made remarkable progress in Mars science, geoengineering, launch capabilities, and bioscience.”
Terraforming Mars involves warming its atmosphere and enabling engineered microorganisms to generate oxygen through photosynthesis.
“We need to confront the actual requirements, costs, and potential risks before determining whether the effort to warm Mars is worthwhile, as opposed to the alternative of preserving it as a pristine wilderness,” the researchers noted.
The research paper discusses current understanding of Mars’ water, carbon dioxide, soil composition, and potential strategies to raise Mars’ surface temperature, enhance atmospheric pressure, and increase oxygen levels.
Innovative methods have been developed that could elevate Mars’ average global temperature by several tens of degrees.
Research priorities should focus on understanding the fundamental physical, chemical, and biological limitations that will influence future decisions regarding Mars. This research could drive advancements in Mars exploration, biological sciences, and atmospheric engineering.
“This work could ultimately aid in maintaining the ‘Oasis Earth’,” the scientist mentioned.
“Technologies developed for Mars habitation, such as drought-resistant crops, efficient soil enhancements, and advanced ecosystem modeling, could also benefit our home planet.”
“Terraforming research on Mars serves as a crucial testbed for planetary science, probing theoretical frameworks and revealing knowledge gaps.”
“Ongoing research promises significant scientific breakthroughs, regardless of whether large-scale terraforming takes place.”
“Until that study is completed, we cannot ascertain what is physically or biologically feasible.”
“If humanity can learn to terraform a planet like Mars, it may pave the way for future exploration beyond our solar system.”
The team’s paper was published in the journal Natural Astronomy on May 13th.
____
ea debenedictis et al. 2025. A case study of terraforming on Mars. Nut Athlon 9, 634-639; doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02548-0
Tamat puppies are believed to be littermates and early domesticated canines, as indicated by their physical connections to slain mammoth bones and two permafrost-preserved late Pleistocene canids. However, recent comprehensive analyses suggest that these puppies were likely wolves inhabiting a dry, relatively warm environment with variable vegetation, consuming a varied diet that included woolly rhinoceroses.
AI impression of a Tumat puppy. Image credit: Gemini AI.
The Tumat puppy remains consist of two exceptionally well-preserved specimens found in northern Siberia, approximately 40 km from the nearest village named Tumat.
One specimen was unearthed in 2011, while the other was located in 2015 at the Syalakh site.
This puppy was discovered within a layer of ice-preserved soil, alongside woolly mammoth remains.
This discovery prompted scientists to speculate whether the site was once a location for mammoth slaughter carried out by humans, and whether puppies had any relationships with humans similar to those of early dogs and domesticated wolves that scavenged for food.
With neither puppy displaying visible signs of injury or attack, it is conceivable that they were resting after meals inside a burrow until a landslide trapped them.
The new research utilizes animal intestinal content and genetic data as well as various chemical “fingerprints” found in the bones, teeth, and tissues to decipher their life, diet, and the surrounding environment.
Both puppies had consumed solid foods, including woolly rhinoceros meat and small birds known as wagtails.
However, their remains also indicated signs of nursing, suggesting they were still receiving milk from their mother.
Notably, despite being found near human-associated mammoth bones, there was no evidence that the puppies had eaten mammoths. Fragments of woolly rhinoceros skin in their stomachs were partially undigested, indicating they died shortly after their last meal.
It is believed that the woolly rhinoceros was a young calf rather than an adult, likely hunted by an adult pack to nourish the puppies. Nonetheless, even a young woolly rhinoceros would have been significantly larger than the typical prey of modern wolves.
This leads researchers to propose that these Pleistocene wolves were possibly larger than present-day wolves.
Prior DNA testing indicates that the puppies are likely from a wolf lineage that ultimately became extinct and did not contribute to the ancestry of modern pet dogs.
“It is remarkable that the two sisters from this era were so well-preserved, and even more impressive, we can narrate many facets of their existence up to their final meal,” stated Anne Catlin Range, a researcher from York University.
“The initial assumption that Tumat’s puppies were dogs was also grounded on the fact that their black fur was presumed to be a mutation exclusive to dogs. Yet, the Tumat puppies challenge this theory as they lack any relation to contemporary dogs.”
“While many may be disappointed that these creatures are overwhelmingly wolves and not early domesticated dogs, they enhance our understanding of the past environment, their way of life, and how strikingly similar they are to modern wolves.”
“Additionally, it implies that the clue of black fur—once thought significant—was misleading since it appears in wolf cubs from a population unrelated to household dogs, leaving the evolution of pet dogs a curious mystery.”
Fossilized plant remnants found in the puppies’ stomachs indicate they thrived in a diverse environment with various plants and animals, including grasslands and leaves from shrub genera like dryas and willow twigs.
This suggests that their habitat comprised a range of environments capable of supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.
“Grey wolves have existed for hundreds of thousands of years based on skeletal remains discovered at paleontological sites, and researchers have performed DNA tests to assess population changes over time.”
“The soft tissue preserved in Tumat puppies provides new access to examine wolves and their evolutionary pathways.”
“Their diet encompassed both animal flesh and plant matter, which bears resemblance to contemporary wolves, offering insights into their reproductive behaviors.”
“The duo are sisters, presumably raised in dens and nurtured by their packs—a behavior commonly observed in modern wolf pup rearing.”
“Though they are frequently larger today, it remains possible that Tumat’s puppies had a brother who survived their fate.”
“There may be additional cubs hidden in permafrost or lost to erosion.”
Hunting large prey like woolly rhinoceroses suggests that these wolves, even as pups, were larger than today’s wolves, yet they may have also targeted easier prey.
Survey results will be published in the journal Quaternary Studies.
____
Anne Katlin Wiborg Lange et al. Multifaceted analysis revealed diet and relatives of late Pleistocene “Tamat puppies.” Quaternary Studies Published online on June 12th, 2025. doi: 10.1017/qua.2025.10
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is prompting air quality warnings across the Midwest and Northeastern US this Thursday as forests in North Korea continue to burn at a historic rate reminiscent of the extreme fire season of 2023.
Air pollution levels have surged in cities including Minneapolis, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Washington, Philadelphia, and New York due to smoke and ozone from the heat.
According to Canada’s Interagency Forest Fire Centre, the ongoing fire season in Canada has already resulted in the burning of around 8.6 million acres. With three months left in the season, this figure has exceeded the seasonal average since 1983, which stands at approximately 6.5 million acres.
The current burning rates in Canada are mirroring those from 2023, known as the year with the highest smoke exposure in modern American history, raising concerns that the current season may reflect that intensity.
“We’re facing significant challenges with our response,” stated Robert Gray, a wildfire ecologist in Chilliwack, British Columbia. “Most forecasts for Canada indicate above-average temperatures, while precipitation levels remain below normal.”
In past years, nearly 43 million acres burned in Canada by the end of the fire season.
Gray noted that much of the smoke this year originates from the densely packed boreal forests found in northern British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Wildfires typically occur in these regions during May and June, coinciding with longer days and rising temperatures. The subsequent developments depend heavily on weather conditions.
“It could be a brief two-week event. The huy starts burning, aspen gets involved, and then weather changes,” Gray explained, alluding to the common aspen trees in these forests. “If aspen and rain don’t clear out, the fires may persist.”
Gray mentioned that drought, low snowfall during winter, and heightened “overwinter” fires are factors contributing to increasingly busy fire seasons.
These overwintering fires continue smoldering beneath forest debris and peat, reigniting in spring.
“There was a fire that started in 2023, lingering through winter into 2024,” Gray remarked. “Some of the same fires have reemerged this year.”
As northern British Columbia faces these wildfires, smoke is often transported to the US by the jetstream, a high-altitude air current that influences pressure and weather changes in the Northern Hemisphere.
“It’s a consistent pattern that remains stable. As long as central and northern BC are burning, this pattern channels smoke into the central and northeastern US,” Gray stated.
Sometimes the smoke stays aloft, creating hazy skies without significant ground-level air quality deterioration. However, it can pose a risk to health.
Wildfire smoke is increasingly hazardous across the US, reversing decades of improvements in air quality achieved under the Clean Air Act.
Inhaling wildfire smoke can cause inflammation, particularly as particles enter the lungs and bloodstream, compromising the immune system. This exposure can elevate the risks of asthma, lung cancer, and other chronic respiratory diseases, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant individuals, infants, and children. Additionally, wildfire smoke is linked to respiratory illnesses, premature births, and miscarriages.
In my view, the Stern-Gerlach experiment was a pivotal moment that introduced the findings of quantum mechanics to the scientific community. Proposed by Otto Stern and carried out by Walther Gerlach in 1922, this experiment demonstrated that atoms possess quantum properties. It revealed that electrons must adhere to quantum principles. The Stern-Gerlach experiments underscore the unusual aspects of the quantum realm, suggesting that observers seem to influence the properties that particles exhibit. Measuring the quantum characteristic known as spin appears to alter the possible spin values particles can possess subsequently. Essentially, the act of observation influences the future states of a particle.
In physics, we are conditioned to perceive ourselves as separate from the physical systems we study. This experiment challenges that separation. My experience shows that students often accept this premise as an undeniable truth. However, after contemplating it multiple times, they find it at odds with their intuitive understanding of reality. Coming to terms with these outcomes is a surreal journey—wonderful and extraordinary.
When I reflect on how to articulate witnessing the decline of American science in real-time, “surreal” is the best descriptor. It does not resemble the surrealism of the Stern-Gerlach experiment; instead, it feels like a reawakening to a tangible reality. I recognize that I once harbored an illusion about the world, but the emerging reality is intriguing and exhilarating.
Our current political climate resembles a reckoning with a previously held false sense of security. It seems that although the US government might support science today, there won’t be a transformative reality waiting for us tomorrow. Instead, the government continues to squander taxpayer-funded culture, casting it into oblivion. This metaphor carries weight: when an object crosses a black hole’s event horizon, it reaches a point of no return. The object is lost forever.
We find ourselves in a similar predicament. The universe remains to be explored, but the impairments to our research capabilities are enduring, altering the trajectory permanently. The number of master’s and doctoral programs has already diminished the availability of opportunities. Aspiring professors are not receiving the same level of training, which will affect not only future scientists but also science communicators.
The US government discards publicly funded culture, casting it into voids of neglect.
The entirety of our future appears discarded. While Donald Trump has suggested cuts to NASA’s astrophysics budget and the National Science Foundation’s physics funding, these reductions in mathematics and astronomy will not prevent global hindrances to science, and will lead to far-reaching repercussions. The US plays a crucial role as a global investor in particle physics, cosmology, and investigations into fundamental truths.
While attending the 2025 Natural Philosophy Symposium at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, we were alerted to devastating budget cuts to NASA’s funding. The event started with an engaging talk by philosopher and cognitive scientist David Chalmers, followed by insights from philosopher Sandra Mitchell on human reasoning, and a discussion with theoretical physicist Nima Arkani-Hamed.
We discussed questions that have captivated humanity for millennia. What is reality, and how can one engage in researching that reality? Such events emphasize the potential outcomes when provided with the necessary time, space, and resources to explore ideas.
During this gathering, NASA’s Astrophysics department appeared to be on the brink of obliteration. The repercussions of this shift will echo for decades. In 1922, Germany stood at the forefront of scientific understanding. However, after the Nazis subverted German science for their propaganda, the field never fully recovered.
This narrative may seem like a dramatic tale about a specific group of individuals. Yet, it’s essential to remember that these discussions lead to real publications. I benefited from Government Pell Grants for economically disadvantaged undergraduates and the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship. The research discussed in this article has been financed through several federal agencies.
This disconcerting moment affects not only scientists in the US but resonates worldwide. Much of the science we engage with originates from American institutions, making this issue pertinent to all of us.
Chanda’s Week
What I’m reading
I’m currently delving into Ricky Fein’s intriguing debut novel. The devil has three times.
What I’m watching
I’ve enjoyed Mission: Impossible, and I’ve seen all of the films at least once in the past two weeks.
What I’m working on
I’ve drafted my third book, The Universe is a Black Aesthetic (Coming soon from Duke University Press).
Chanda Prescod-Weinstein serves as an associate professor of physics and astronomy, as well as a core faculty member of women’s studies at the University of New Hampshire. Her latest book is The Disturbed Cosmos: A Journey to Dark Matter, Space, and Dreams.
Researchers can construct structures that mimic lab black holes
Science Photo Library/Alamy
By shaping light into a liquid-like form, researchers aim to deepen their grasp of black holes and other intriguing phenomena.
Though observing supermassive objects like black holes directly is a challenge, scientists have employed quantum effects to create valuable analogs in laboratory settings. For instance, they have previously simulated space-time with ultra-cold atoms to mimic a black hole’s material.
Now, Kevin Falk from the Kastler-Brossel Laboratory (LKB) in Paris and his team have utilized light to generate highly controlled analogs of space-time.
They achieved this by trapping light within small cavities made of reflective semiconductor materials, allowing it to bounce between layers and interact with the material’s charge. This quantum interaction ultimately converts light into a liquid-like state.
Researchers can manipulate this fluid with lasers to replicate the geometry of space-time, creating structures that correspond to a black hole’s event horizon. The object can fall but will not return.
Their light-based “space” is meticulously controlled, enabling Falk and his colleagues to visualize events and create sudden space-time structures.
They plan to use this unique simulation to investigate how Hawking radiation emitted from black holes varies with abrupt changes in the event horizon. However, achieving this requires cooling and isolating the experiment to amplify the quantum effects involved.
“This work represents a remarkable experimental achievement,” says Juan Ramon Muñoz de Nova from Complutense University in Madrid, who has contributed to initial measurements of Hawking radiation in black hole simulations involving ultracold atoms. He believes these new experiments present opportunities to observe various phenomena, such as how black holes vibrate and produce “ring” effects.
Friedrich Koenig from St Andrews University in the UK notes that this research offers “the most valuable platform” to explore new concepts related to gravity and the complex interplays between gravity and quantum effects.
One striking outcome of this study is the potential to reveal that the observed black holes might not be what they seem. Maxime Jacquet from LKB explains that the first image captured of a black hole by the Event Horizon Telescope may appear authentic, but the visual representation of a black hole may not equate to its true nature.
There could be sizable objects that distort light like black holes, creating a false appearance without an observable event horizon. Theoretical investigations suggest this is feasible, and light-based experiments may allow for further exploration of this possibility, according to Jacquet.
“We must exercise caution. While we have these analogs, fluids and black holes are fundamentally different entities,” warns Falk. “However, this experiment enables us to experiment with testing theories related to black holes.”
Computational models enabling the swift design of vascular networks for 3D-printed organs could advance the prospect of artificial liver, kidney, or heart transplants, eliminating the dependency on donors.
Individuals suffering from organ failure often require transplants. Merely 10% of the global transplant demand is currently met. In response, researchers are innovating techniques to produce lab-grown organs via 3D printing. However, these efforts hinge on experimental methodologies for sustaining the vascular networks long enough to remain viable for days or weeks.
To tackle this issue, Allison Marsden from Stanford University and her team have developed a computational model that facilitates the design of these networks for any organ using mathematical principles explaining how blood vessels branch within the body.
They evaluated their method by creating a network of 25 vessels with 1 cm wide ring-shaped structures that were 3D printed from kidney cells according to their design.
The team then fabricated the vascular network into rings using cold gelatin particles, subsequently heated to 37°C (98.6°F) to dissolve the gelatin, resulting in a network of hollow channels measuring 1 mm in width that mirrored blood vessels. The researchers continued to circulate oxygen and nutrient solutions through the channels to replicate normal blood flow.
After one week, the ring contained approximately 400 times more viable cells compared to a similar ring made from bloodless kidney cells that had been exposed to blood-like fluids.
“We succeeded in keeping the cells near the network alive,” remarks Marsden. “However, the more distant cells perished because we were unable to print the smaller, more intricately branched networks necessary to deliver nutrients to those regions. Our team is actively seeking solutions to this challenge.”
“They are definitely pushing the limits of feasibility,” states Hugues Talbot from University Paris-Clay, France. This novel approach might someday enable scientists to design vascular networks for full-sized organs in mere hours, rather than days or weeks. “Networks designed in this manner could potentially substitute or at least complement lab-grown organs in the future.”
First, researchers must devise methods for 3D printing these vascular networks onto larger organs. If progress continues on this path, Marsden expresses a desire to experiment with 3D-printed organs in pigs within the next five years.
John Stewart Bell developed a method to measure the unique correlations permitted in the quantum world
CERN
While some perceive a Poltergeist in the attic and others spot a ghost on dark nights, there’s also the enigmatic figure of John Stewart Bell. His groundbreaking work and enduring legacy have intrigued me for years.
Consider this: how much of our reality can we claim to experience objectively? I ponder this frequently, especially when discussing the intricate nature of space, time, and quantum mechanics. Bell was deeply reflective about such matters, and his contributions have forever altered our comprehension of these concepts.
Born in Belfast in 1928, Bell was, by all accounts, a curious and cheerful child. He gravitated towards physics early and undertook his first role as a lab engineer at just 16. With training in both theoretical and experimental physics, he built a significant part of his career around particle accelerators. Yet, it was the inconsistencies he perceived within quantum theory that occupied his thoughts during late nights.
Today, this area has become a well-established branch of physics, featured prominently in New Scientist. Modern physics does not typically welcome those who question the edges of physics, mathematics, and philosophy. In Bell’s time, scientists were still grappling with the legacies of quantum theory’s pioneers, including heated debates between Niels Bohr and Albert Einstein.
My interest in Bell’s work began as a casual pursuit, though I devoted several hours to it. In 1963, he took a sabbatical with his physicist wife, using the time to craft a pair of original papers. Initially published without much attention, their significance could not be understated.
Bell transformed philosophical inquiries into testable experiments, particularly concentrating on the notion of “hidden variables” in quantum mechanics.
Quantum mechanics inherently resists certainty and determinism, as elucidated by Bohr and his contemporaries in the early 20th century. Notably, definitive statements about quantum entities remain elusive until we engage with them. Predictive ability exists only in probabilistic terms—an electron, for instance, might have a 98% likelihood of exhibiting one energy level while being 2% likely to reveal another, but the actual outcome is intrinsically random.
How does nature make these seemingly random decisions? One theory proposes that certain properties remain hidden from observers. If physicists could identify these hidden variables, they could inject absolute predictability into quantum theory.
Bell crafted a test aimed at marginalizing the myriad hidden variable theories, either altering or challenging quantum theory. This test typically involves two experimenters—Alice and Bob. A pair of entangled particles is produced repeatedly, with one particle sent to Alice and the corresponding one dispatched to Bob in a separate laboratory. Upon receipt, Alice and Bob each independently measure specific properties, for instance, Alice might analyze a particle’s spin.
Simultaneously, Bob conducts his measurements without any communication between the two experimenters. Once all data is collected, it is filtered into equations derived by Bell in 1964. This “inequality” framework evaluates the correlations between Alice and Bob’s observations. Even in scenarios devoid of quantum interactions, some correlations may occur by mere chance. However, Bell established a threshold of correlation indicating that something beyond randomness is happening. The particles demonstrate correlations unique to quantum physics, negating the presence of local hidden variables.
Thus, Bell’s test does more than affirm quantum theory as a superior explanation of our reality; it also underscores the peculiar nature of “non-locality,” revealing strange traits of our existence. This implies that quantum objects can maintain connections, with their behaviors remaining profoundly intertwined despite vast separations. Einstein critiqued this notion vigorously, as it contradicts the principles of his special theory of relativity by insinuating a form of instantaneous communication between entities.
Bell, initially a disciple of Einstein’s theories, found himself ultimately proving his idol wrong. His tests compellingly indicated that our reality is indeed quantum. This debate continues to engage researchers, particularly regarding the persistent discrepancies between quantum theory and our best understanding of gravity, framed by Einstein himself.
There was little acknowledgment of Bell’s experimental designs during his lifetime, despite the technical challenges they presented. The first experiment of this kind was conducted in 1972, and it wasn’t until 2015 that a test with minimal loopholes ultimately refuted the local hidden variable theories conclusively. In 2022, physicists Alain Aspect, John F. Krauss, and Anton Zeilinger received the Nobel Prize in Physics for their extensive work on these experiments.
So why does John Stewart Bell’s legacy resonate so strongly with me? Am I ensnared in some quantum malaise?
The answer lies in the fact that his work and the myriad experiments testing it have spawned as many questions about quantum physics and physical reality as they aim to resolve. For instance, numerous physicists concur that our universe is fundamentally non-local, yet they strive to uncover the underlying physical mechanisms at play. Others are busy formulating new hidden variable theories that evade the constraints set by Bell’s tests. Additionally, researchers are scrupulously reevaluating the mathematical assumptions Bell made in his original work, believing that fresh perspectives on Bell’s findings may be critical for advancing interpretations of quantum theory and developing cohesive theories.
The repercussions of Bell’s findings permeate the realm of quantum physics. We have engaged in Bell tests for nearly five decades, continuously enhancing entangled particles. But this is just the beginning. Recently, I collaborated with physicists to design a method to leverage Bell’s work in exploring whether free will might be partially constrained by cosmic factors. Afterwards, I received a call from another cohort of researchers keen to discuss Bell again, this time in relation to gravity and the foundational nature of space and time. They drew inspiration from his methodologies and sought to create a test that would examine genuine gravitational properties rather than quantum ones.
It’s no wonder I feel inextricably linked to Bell. His capacity to convert philosophical inquiries into tangible tests encapsulates the essence of physics. The essence of physics is to unravel the world’s most baffling mysteries through experimental means. Bell’s test vividly embodies that promise.
If I must ponder a haunting presence, I couldn’t ask for a more remarkable specter.
One key aspect of engaging conversation is levity. You don’t have to be a comedian, just have fun.
Tetra Images, LLC/Alamy
Conversations form the foundation of our relationships, yet many people find initiating dialogue challenging. Feelings of anxiety often surface when trying to engage in small talk with strangers, or even when connecting with those closest to us. If this resonates, Alison Wood Brooks is here to assist. She is a professor at Harvard Business School and teaches a highly sought-after course titled “Talk: How to Talk Gooder in Business and Life.” Additionally, her works, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Yourself, present four essential principles for fostering deeper conversations. Wood Brooks explains that while conversations can be unpredictable, they adhere to certain guidelines that, once understood, can ease our discomfort about the unpredictable aspects of interaction. New Scientist took the opportunity to ask her how to implement these insights into our daily conversations.
David Robson: Discussing conversation feels quite meta. Have you ever found yourself critiquing your own conversational skills?
Alison Wood Brooks: The layers of “metaness” are numerous. Even as I participated in discussions, I often felt as if I was observing from above. At Harvard, I teach courses, and many of my students experience this phenomenon too. There may be a challenging phase of over-excitement, but I hope that this subsides as they develop more effective conversational habits. There’s a well-known quote from Charlie Parker, the jazz saxophonist, which goes, “Practice, practice, practice, and when you hit the stage, let it all go and just play.” That’s how I approach conversation—it’s crucial to embrace the joy of being with another human, never losing the magic of that connection. While it’s beneficial to prepare, once you’re engaged in conversation, let go and allow the dialogue to flow.
From reading your book, I gathered that to bring energy into a conversation, one should ask about another person’s passion—so, what inspired your passion for conversation?
I have two responses to this question. The first is professional; early in my tenure at Harvard, I delved into emotions by examining how people articulate their feelings and the balance between emotions that one feels and expresses. Through this exploration, I developed a profound interest in understanding not just my emotions but how others communicate their experiences as well. We have advanced scientific tools today that allow us to analyze conversations on a large scale, thanks to the advent of natural language processing, machine learning, and AI, enabling us to process vast amounts of conversational data effectively.
On a personal note, I am a twin, which means I’ve always coexisted with someone who mirrors me closely. From the moment I opened my eyes as a newborn, I was beside an exact copy of myself. This relationship has allowed me to observe my interactions with the world and how she engages with others. When she succeeded in communicating or making jokes, I learned from her success, and I was able to avoid similar pitfalls when I witnessed her failures. This unique dynamic provided feedback most people don’t have. As twins, we were able to converse constantly, sharing spaces, clothes, friends, and even sports, cultivating a shared reality.
Your book outlines a framework for better conversation: topics, asking, lightness, kindness. Let’s start with the first element—how do you decide what topic to discuss?
My initial advice is preparation. Some individuals do this instinctively, thinking about potential conversation topics before meeting someone. For those who naturally lean into this habit, I encourage you to embrace it. However, some students perceive preparation as too rigid and scripted. Remember, just because you’ve prepared for a conversation doesn’t mean you need to stick exclusively to your planned topics. When unsure what to say next, having backup topics can ease those awkward silences. Maintaining fluidity in conversation is essential for connection. The choice of topic is less crucial at the outset; we are constantly making decisions on whether to stay on one subject, pivot to another, or change completely.
Sometimes the topic of conversation is clear. Still, it can be difficult to know when to switch to a new one.
Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
What guidance can you offer when making these topic decisions?
There are three clear indicators that suggest it’s time to change the topic. The first is a prolonged mutual pause. The second indicator is an awkward laugh, often used to fill spaces with excitement. The third sign is redundancy—if the discussion starts to repeat itself, it’s a signal to switch gears.
After a decent conversation, most people report feeling that they’ve covered an adequate range of topics. However, if you ask individuals about a conversation that didn’t flow well, they often feel they either discussed too little or went too deep into a single subject. This indicates that a common mistake is lingering too long on a single topic.
Your second element of conversation is asking questions. Many of us have heard the advice to ask more questions, yet why do you think many struggle with this?
Research indicates that human nature is inherently egocentric. We often become so absorbed in our own thoughts that we forget to invite others to share theirs. Fear also plays a role; while you might genuinely want to ask others about themselves, you may hesitate, worried about coming off as intrusive or revealing your own ignorance.
What types of questions should we be asking?
In my book, I discuss the significance of follow-up questions, building upon what your conversational partner just expressed. This demonstrates that you’ve listened, care, and wish to delve deeper. Even one thoughtful follow-up question can elevate a shallow conversation to something meaningful.
However, certain questioning patterns, like “Boomerasking,” should be avoided. Michael Yeoman and I recently researched this and it was fascinating. This conversational game boomerangs back to the initial questioner; for instance, if I ask about your breakfast and you reply, sharing details, I might then pivot to my own breakfast without giving due attention to your thoughts. Such a transition can come across as self-centric. Our findings reveal that this can leave your conversational partner feeling unheard. Sharing your perspective is essential, but do so at a moment that allows for mutual engagement rather than overshadowing.
Research by Alison Wood Brooks includes a recent study on “Boomerasking.”
Janelle Bruno
What benefits does levity bring to conversation?
When we examine conversations that falter, we often cite hostility and disagreement as culprits, yet the subtle killer of engaging dialogue is boredom. Levity serves as a preventative measure. Small moments of humor and lightness can rekindle engagement and enhance our connections.
Research shows that those who elicit positive feelings in others often receive respect and recognition, even with a simple joke, as confidence and the capacity to read a room are essential qualities of effective leaders. The joke doesn’t need to be profound or elaborate; it’s the willingness to share that showcases adaptability.
If someone isn’t a natural comedian, what practical steps can they take to introduce levity?
Levity transcends humor—it isn’t solely about being funny. Aspiring to become a comedian isn’t the ultimate goal. Watching stand-up performances showcases how comedians have meticulously refined their craft over time—a stark contrast to the spontaneity of live conversation. In real interactions, individuals seek connection, which doesn’t rely on elaborate jokes but on shared moments of joy. Seize opportunities to introduce lightness by switching to fresh topics or referring back to earlier points in the conversation or relationship. These callbacks, which may highlight something memorable, effectively demonstrate that you’ve been attentive and engaged. Levity can also emerge in the form of genuine compliments; if you appreciate something about someone, articulate it.
This brings us to the final conversation element: kindness. What holds us back from being as kind as we aspire?
Kindness frequently contends with our own egotism. Studies suggest we often underestimate how different others’ perspectives are from our own, leading us to overlook the value of simply asking to hear those perspectives. Being a kind conversationalist means focusing on your partner’s viewpoint—considering their needs and helping fulfill them.
Lastly, what are your top recommendations for enhancing conversations the next time your readers engage with someone?
Conversations can be surprisingly complex and challenging. When things go awry, grant yourself and others some grace. Everyone makes mistakes; sometimes a little kindness can make a significant difference.
Analyzing breath patterns can be crucial for diagnosing and treating numerous health issues
Milan Jovic/Getty Images
Forget about facial recognition—innovative methods for identification may be on the horizon. Researchers have unveiled the concept of “respiratory fingerprints,” a distinctive breathing pattern that could transform the approach to diagnosing and managing various health conditions, including obesity and depression.
The breakthrough is credited to Timna Soroka at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. Together with her team, they designed wearable devices capable of capturing the minute details of our breathing patterns.
“This research is exciting,” says Torben Noto from OSMO in New York, an AI company focused on enhancing computer sensory perception, who was not part of the study. “It tackles many persistent inquiries regarding the relationship between respiratory signals and health, as well as mental well-being.”
The notion that breath patterns can reveal health information isn’t new; clues to this relationship date back to the 1950s. Yet, previous studies were limited to data from hospital patients because no wearable devices existed that could record nasal breathing while allowing people to move freely.
To overcome this limitation, Soroka and her colleagues developed a wearable device, which was tested by 97 participants who wore it around the clock. The team trained an algorithm to detect a unique set of 24 breathing metrics, ranging from the volume of air inhaled to the speed of breathing. Remarkably, the algorithm achieved nearly 97% accuracy in identifying participants, and their unique breathing signature remained consistent over a two-year follow-up period.
However, don’t expect to use this device for banking transactions just yet, warns Norm Sobel from the Weizmann Institute. The primary aim is not biometric authentication, but to extract invaluable health insights.
For instance, a person’s body mass index (BMI) can be estimated using specific nasal cycle parameters, which involve a rhythmic pattern of airflow between nostrils. This cycle is controlled by the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems—the former prepares the body for “fight or flight,” while the latter calms the body. “By assessing nostril airflow, we effectively gauge sympathetic arousal, which seems to correlate with BMI,” explains Sobel.
This leads to intriguing inquiries, Sobel notes: Could breathing patterns influence weight rather than weight changes altering breath? “If that’s the case, we might discover a breathing pattern that promotes weight loss, at which point we’ll all retire to an island,” he quips.
The respiratory data also indicated a link between breathing characteristics and levels of anxiety and depression. For example, individuals experiencing higher depressive symptoms exhibited faster inhalation rates.
The research team is currently exploring whether these breathing patterns actively contribute to these symptoms and if they can be used to diagnose widespread mental health disorders.
“Imagine a future where each patient owns a nasal airflow monitoring device that not only tracks treatment progress but also offers feedback and predicts outcomes for various disorders,” says Noto. The device measures 24 distinct breathing metrics. It also enables users to notice deviations from their normal breathing patterns. “This could have a profound effect on public health,” adds Noto.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is set to provide a new perspective on the universe
Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The elevation is high above Celopachen, a Chilean mountain towering over 2600 meters. As I ascend the stairs within the dome of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, I find myself breathing deeply. The atmosphere is cool, serene, and expansive, resembling a cathedral. Then, the entire dome begins to rotate, revealing the vast sky.
Night falls, unveiling an abundance of stars like I’ve never witnessed. The Milky Way shines exceptionally bright, and I can spot two of its satellite galaxies, the Small Magellanic Cloud. Yet, the Rubin telescope steals the show with its massive presence. It boasts the largest digital cameras and lenses in the world, tipping the scales at a staggering 350 tons. As a reflective telescope, it gathers light via a mirror, with its largest mirror measuring 8.4 meters across. The tunnel leading to the summit matches its width at about 8.5 meters.
Despite its immense weight, this telescope can maneuver swiftly, poised to transform our understanding of the solar system, galaxies, and the universe at large. Every three nights, it completes a Southern Sky survey, a feat that previously required weeks or months. Over a decade, Rubin will create a kind of cosmic time-lapse.
“By capturing the sky every three days, we can layer those images to delve deeper,” explains researcher Kevin Rail. “Ten years down the line, we will have explored much more deeply, revealing the universe’s structure,” he states.
A core mission of the observatory involves comprehensively understanding how dark matter influences the cosmos. Bella Rubin, the namesake astronomer, initiated this journey in the 1970s when observations of galaxy rotation disclosed that visible matter represented only a fraction of the universe. She discovered that stars on the galactic outskirts were moving faster than expected; according to Kepler’s Law, they should be traveling more slowly compared to stars nearer the galaxy’s center.
After extensive observations and calculations, it became evident that additional unseen mass must exist. This invisible entity is referred to as dark matter, and astronomers now estimate that it is nearly five times more abundant than visible matter, exerting gravitational effects that shape our observable universe.
“Visible entities are actually following the contours set by dark matter, not vice versa,” observes Stephanie Deppe at the observatory. Galaxies are believed to be arranged in what astronomers term the cosmic web, woven by filaments of dark matter that hold the visible stars through gravity. The images captured by Rubin provide an unprecedented view of this web.
Mapping this web also aids in uncovering the properties of dark matter. Is it composed of fast-moving, lightweight particles or is it cold and denser? “You can identify small anomalies, such as kinks in a stellar stream,” Deppe adds. These anomalies indicate where dark matter has accumulated along the filaments. Determining the mass will help to refine hypotheses regarding the type of dark matter present. Additionally, the structure of the cosmic web offers insights into dark energy, the force propelling the universe’s expansion.
Staff at the summit installing the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s Commissioning Camera in August 2024.
Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/H. Stockebrand
The excitement surrounding precision astronomy is palpable at the observatory. During the evening’s observations, chatter fills the kitchen near the telescope control room. One of the telescope operators bounces with eagerness: “We hope the skies cooperate tonight,” a term used for opening the telescope’s shutter to capture images. “Indeed, we do,” his colleague responds, smiling over a cup of tea. As the sun sets, we collectively wish for a clear evening.
When the clouds part, the control room buzzes with activity. The operator skillfully adjusts the telescope to ensure proper focus. Every 30 seconds, a new image is captured, and an audio cue signals when the shutter opens and closes, followed by a satisfying whoosh as it resets. The telescope snaps a segment of the sky before dashing to the next location, creating a grid that will be stitched together.
All systems run smoothly until suddenly, a glitch arises. To optimize viewing opportunities, the observatory employs an automated system that determines where the telescope should aim, based on weather conditions and moon phases. However, this system has momentarily malfunctioned. Operators traverse the mountains for hours with scientists at base camp, diving into the code to locate the problem. Twenty minutes later, adjustments are made, and the regular shutter cadence resumes, with images flowing in once more.
“This is one of the best nights we’ve experienced. The data is exceptional,” notes Eli Rikov, Calibration Scientist. “I hope the processors can deliver high-quality scientific images.”
Once captured, the images embark on a swift journey around the globe. They traverse the 103,000 km stretch of fiber cables leading either across the Atlantic or Pacific, ultimately reaching the U.S. The images pass through a hub in Florida before arriving at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California.
Each image is approximately 32 gigapixels, comparable to a 4K movie, and arrives within about 10 seconds. William Omlan manages data on the observation deck. From there, the data is distributed to facilities in the UK and France, making the images accessible to scientists worldwide.
One of the most urgent analyses will focus on swiftly moving objects. The night sky constantly shifts and changes in unpredictable ways, and the Rubin Observatory is poised to catch these movements. It will track asteroids and comets moving across the sky, including those in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as Trans-Neptunian objects.
“Currently, we only know a few thousand objects,” explains an expert in the Kuiper Belt and other distant clouds. “Rubin could potentially increase our catalog tenfold.”
Moreover, it will help monitor potential threats from near-Earth objects, amplifying our known inventory from around 30,000 to approximately 100,000. The telescope has also successfully observed fast-moving interstellar visitors like Oumuamua, which zipped through our solar system in 2017, and Borisov, which arrived in 2019.
This census of solar system objects could also shed light on the elusive Planet 9, a hypothetical world—5 to 10 times Earth’s size—believed to exist in the outer solar system, inferred from the unusual orbits of Kuiper Belt objects. Simulations suggest it could be responsible, though conclusive evidence is still missing.
That may soon change. “Rubin might directly discover Planet 9, providing definitive proof or debunking its existence,” Deppe mentions.
One mystery the telescope won’t unravel is the uncertain future of American scientific funding. Jointly funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the latter has faced proposed budget cuts exceeding 50%. When I inquired about its implications, staff at the observatory were uncertain. “I won’t speculate about the potential impact of the President’s fiscal year 2026 budget request,” an NSF spokesperson responded.
But inside the control room, funding debates can wait. Though midnight approaches, shifts are far from over. Scientists work diligently until 3 or 4 a.m., but weariness seems absent. Every so often, someone exclaims, “Look at these stunning images!”
The first publicly released image appeared on June 23rd, capturing a full view of the southern sky every three nights. “The entire idea is to construct an observatory capable of collecting all the data demanded by the scientific community worldwide.”
Vera C. Rubin Observatory is set to unveil new perspectives of the universe
Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The atmosphere above Celopachen, a mountain in Chile standing over 2600 meters high, is sparse. Taking a trip up the stairs inside the dome of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory requires a breath. It’s cool, serene, immensely spacious—and then the entire dome rotates, revealing the sky.
As night envelops the landscape, the stars multiply, more abundant than I’ve ever witnessed. The Milky Way glows vibrantly, and I spot the small Magellanic Cloud, one of our galaxy’s companions. The Rubin telescope, however, dominates the scene—it’s massive, boasting the world’s largest digital cameras and lenses, with a weight of 350 tonnes. This reflective telescope gathers light through its mirror, with the largest mirror measuring 8.4 meters in diameter, designed to fit snugly through the 8.5-meter wide tunnel leading to the summit.
Despite its impressive heft, the telescope is swift, poised to transform our understanding of our solar system, galaxies, and the universe. Every three nights, it captures a survey of the Southern Sky. While previous sky investigations took weeks or months, Rubin accomplishes this in just half the time, providing a sort of cosmic time-lapse.
“By photographing the sky every three days, we can layer those images to delve deeper,” explains scientist Kevin Rail. “Thus, a decade from now, you’ll delve into the universe’s inner workings and its structure,” he adds.
Unraveling that structure is among the observatory’s goals, focusing on how dark matter distorts the universe. Bella Rubin, the namesake astronomer, pioneered this quest in the 1970s through galaxy rotation observations that indicated visible matter was but a fraction of what exists. She noted that stars at a galaxy’s edge were zipping by too quickly, contradicting Kepler’s Law, which suggested they should move at slower velocities compared to those near the galactic center.
After extensive observation and calculations, the conclusion was clear: an unseen entity must be present—this is now known as dark matter. Astronomers believe it comprises nearly five times more mass than visible matter, and its gravitational pull shapes the universe we observe.
“Visible matter actually traces dark matter’s gravitational field, not the other way around,” says Stephanie Deppe at the observatory. Galaxies are perceived to exist in what astronomers term the cosmic web, interlinked by dark matter filaments that capture the stars we can observe. Rubin’s images offer unparalleled views of this web.
This mapping effort aids in deciphering dark matter’s nature—whether it’s composed of hot, light, fast-moving particles or colder, aggregated ones. “We seek small disturbances, like kinks in stellar streams,” Deppe explains. These disturbances indicate sections where dark matter is concentrated within filaments. Understanding the mass from these observations refines our knowledge of dark matter’s characteristics. Moreover, deciphering the cosmic web’s structure can enhance our comprehension of dark energy, the force accelerating the universe’s expansion.
Summit staff will install the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s commissioning camera in August 2024.
Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/H. Stockebrand
The enthusiasm for precision astronomy is palpable at the observatory. During my observation night, excitement buzzes through the air, particularly in the kitchen adjoining the control room. One of the operators, practically bouncing with energy, exclaims, “We hope the sky is clear tonight!” This term refers to opening the telescope shutter for imaging. “Indeed, we do,” replies a colleague, grinning over their tea. As twilight descends, we all hope for a cloudless sky.
When the clouds part, the control room buzzes with energy. An operator continues fine-tuning the telescope for optimum image focus. Every 30 seconds brings a new image, followed by the sound of the shutter opening and closing—like a hushed reverberation through the dome as it swiftly captures and moves on to the next section of the sky, constructing an intricate cosmic puzzle.
Suddenly, an unexpected glitch occurs. To maximize observational efficiency, the observatory employs an automated program that directs the telescope based on weather and moon phases, but this system stumbles momentarily. Operators venture through the rugged terrain alongside scientists at base camp, collaborating to troubleshoot the issue. After about 20 minutes, adjustments are made, and normal operations resume, with the rhythm of the shutter beginning anew.
“This is one of our best nights; everything is flowing smoothly—this data is excellent,” reveals Eli Rikov, the calibration scientist. “I’m optimistic the processors will produce high-quality scientific images.”
Once captured, images embark on a rapid journey around the globe. They traverse down the mountain on an extensive network of 103,000 km of fiber optic cables, reaching the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans before arriving in the US. Images pass through a central hub in Florida before arriving at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California.
Each captured image consists of about 32 gigapixels, roughly the equivalent of a 4K movie, and they arrive in approximately 10 seconds. William Omlan, overseeing data on the observation deck, then disseminates this data to facilities in the UK and France, ensuring it reaches scientists worldwide.
Most urgent analyses focus on rapidly moving celestial bodies. The night sky is in constant flux, exhibiting blips and changes in unpredictable patterns. The Rubin Observatory is uniquely equipped to capture these dynamic movements, allowing for near-real-time detection of rapidly changing objects. The telescope tracks asteroids and comets racing across the night sky, including those within the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as trans-Neptunian objects.
“Currently, we are aware of thousands of these objects,” says the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud researcher. “Rubin will likely increase that count tenfold.”
The observatory also plays a crucial role in monitoring potential threats from near-Earth objects, aiming to expand our knowledge from about 30,000 to an estimated 100,000. It has even succeeded in capturing fast-moving interstellar objects, such as Oumuamua, which passed through our solar system in 2017, and Borisov, which followed in 2019.
This extensive census of the solar system might also solve the enigma of Planet 9. Intriguing evidence suggests a body—5 to 10 times the mass of Earth—exists in the outer solar system, inferred from Kuiper Belt objects exhibiting peculiar yet similar orbits. Simulations propose that such a planet could be influencing these orbits, though direct evidence remains elusive.
That may soon change. “Rubin’s data will either uncover definitive evidence of Planet 9 or eliminate any existing doubts,” predicts Deppe.
However, there’s also uncertainty looming over American science funding. The observatory receives joint funding from the US Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the latter having faced draconian budget cuts proposed by over half. When I inquired about the potential implications, staff members seemed nonplussed. “I prefer not to speculate on the effects of the President’s budget request for fiscal year 2026,” an NSF spokesperson told me later.
For now, though, back in the control room, financial concerns take a backseat. Approaching midnight, the shift continues. Scientists work diligently until 3 am or 4 am, yet fatigue seems nonexistent. Occasionally, someone brightens the room with, “Look at these stunning images!”
The first published image emerged on June 23rd, showcasing a complete view of the southern sky obtained every three nights. “The vision is to create an observatory that can capture all the data the world wishes for.”
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is recognized as one of the more aggressive and challenging breast cancers to treat. Lacking the three standard hormonal markers associated with estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2, this absence complicates the selection of effective treatment strategies for healthcare providers.
Researchers characterize TNBC as a collection of various diseases with distinct molecular characteristics that impact how the cancer manifests and its response to treatments. They utilize specific genes and gene products to categorize TNBC types. It is important to note that there are overlaps in the current classifications, which might be explained by the presence and levels of particular chemical molecules on the DNA. These molecules play a role in regulating whether genes are activated or deactivated in cells through processes known as DNA methylation.
In this study, researchers from Sweden explored how the distribution and patterns of DNA methylation delineate different forms of TNBC, influencing tumor behavior and interactions with the body’s immune system and its treatment responses. They analyzed 235 tumor samples from various patients in Sweden, ensuring that the data was refined to focus solely on cancerous cells rather than healthy tissue.
Employing a statistical technique known as Non-negative matrix factorization, they identified two primary categories of TNBC based on DNA methylation patterns: basal and nonbasal groups. This categorization aligns with previous classifications grounded in how cells interpret gene functions, termed gene expression. The basal group comprised tumors that were typically more active in immune responses and had a higher incidence of mutations linked to DNA repair issues, notably involving the common BRCA1 gene. Conversely, although the nonbasal group lacked hormone receptors, they exhibited increased activity in genes that influence hormonal responses.
Utilizing statistical assessments, the researchers subdivided each major group into smaller subtypes. Within the basal tumors, they identified three subgroups, referred to as basal1, basal2, and basal3, characterized by varying levels of immune cell activity and gene expression profiles. One specific subgroup, Basal3, demonstrated elevated expression of proteins that aid tumors in evading the immune system. The researchers found that specific DNA methylation patterns could activate or deactivate these proteins, indicating that patients with basal tumors might benefit from existing cancer treatments targeting this protein. The Basal2 subgroup expressed genes that inhibit immune activity, while the Basal1 subgroup displayed no significant immune-related behavior.
In the nonbasal category, researchers distinguished two subtypes: nonbasal1 and nonbasal2. Both of these subgroups were more prevalent among older patients and exhibited lower survival rates compared to the basal subgroup. The Nonbasal2 group encompassed tumors that influenced hormonal activity and responses to fatty treatments, whereas the Nonbasal1 group experienced more frequent disruptions in genes associated with tumor suppression.
Across all groups, researchers identified numerous genes whose methylation could modulate tumor growth and responses to the surrounding environment. To validate their findings in a broader context, they sourced independent tumor datasets from global databases and conducted similar classification analyses. They confirmed that the identified methylation subtypes appeared in other TNBC samples and correlated methylation patterns with tumor defense mechanisms, pinpointing strategies TNBC tumors may utilize to evade the immune system.
The researchers also acknowledged several limitations of their study. Their focus on DNA methylation represents just one of many chemical modifications that can influence TNBC behavior. Some of the independent datasets utilized originated from general breast cancer studies and were not exclusively focused on TNBC. Additionally, a significant portion of the data came from Western and Northern European populations, which may limit the applicability of the findings to individuals from other ethnicities. They emphasized the necessity for larger and more diverse datasets to gain a comprehensive understanding of TNBC subtypes.
In conclusion, the researchers posited that examining DNA methylation in patient samples could effectively categorize TNBC into meaningful subtypes, each with unique biological features, immune environments, and potential treatment responses. They recommended that future studies explore the origins of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, and how these alterations contribute to variations in TNBC subtypes.
The #MeToo movement against women’s sexual abuse gained traction in 2017, leading to what I term the #Anatomytoo moment, during which the derogatory anatomical label attached to female genitals was challenged and deemed unacceptable.
The long-used term for the vulva, referring to the external genitalia of women, was “Pudendum,” a word that historically reflected a biased view within the male-dominated medical field. Interestingly, “Pudendum” traces back to the Latin word Pudere, meaning “to be ashamed,” casting the female anatomy in a negative light as something shameful.
What’s even more unfortunate is that for centuries, “Pudendum” was applied equally to both men’s and women’s external genitals. Over time, men shed the associated stigma, leaving women to bear the burden of this label alone.
Consequently, it’s not surprising that many women feel discomfort regarding their genitals. A UK study revealed that 65% of young women struggle to use terms like “vulva” or “vagina.” This part of their own body often remains unnamed.
Names carry significant weight, as reflected in the evolution of the term “Pudendum.” As a result, it was removed from official anatomical terminology in 2019.
But “Pudendum” is just the surface issue in the broader context of male dominance in anatomy. Female anatomy features a considerable number of anatomical eponyms, which are body parts named after individuals, predominantly male.
A review of 700 anatomical terms identified that 424 were named after male doctors. Among the few exceptions, there was only one woman and several mythological figures and historical leaders, highlighting the gender imbalance.
This systemic patriarchy is unsurprising, given that in 1847, when many of these terms were coined, women were seldom represented in the study of internal anatomy, particularly regarding female reproductive organs.
For example, Gabriele Falloppio is commemorated in the namesake tube connecting the uterus to the ovaries, while Skene’s Glands, named after Alexander Skene, contribute to female ejaculation. The “G” in G-spot honors Ernst Gräfenberg, whereas Bartholin’s gland is named for Caspar Bartholin the younger, linked to sexual lubrication near the vaginal entrance.
The prevalence of masculine terminology is one reason why medical professionals increasingly favor more precise terms. For instance, Bartholin’s glands are referred to as the larger vestibular glands, and Skene’s glands are called paraglandular glands, while the fallopian tube is termed the uterine tube.
Despite this push for change, anatomical eponyms remain widely used in both medical practice and everyday language. Terms like “Fallopian Tube” have yet to be fully supplanted by more contemporary terminology. Moreover, even when linguistic adjustments are made, vestiges of the original terminology often stick around.
While “Pudendum” is eliminated, the equally charged term “Pudendal” survives, referring to female nerves, arteries, veins, and canals, perpetuating remnants of male-centric anatomical language. Most people remain unfamiliar with these terms.
Unlike “vagina,” which is derived from the Latin word for “sheath,” suggesting an alternative name of “vagina,” rebranding this term isn’t on the agenda. However, many still overlook the fact that other female reproductive parts also deserve recognition.
For pudendal nerves and arteries, only one term in the anatomical lexicon encapsulates their enduring stigma: it remains an embarrassment.
What has become of our cherished privacy? In today’s world, nearly every detail about us is known, traded, and exploited by social media platforms. Click. I have the amusing attire your self-righteous uncle crafted this morning. Click. I have a friend lamenting the promotion I missed out on. Click. Indeed, there are those strangers who will share their bedrooms with you—for a price.
One might expect a book titled Intimate with Strangers: Ascending and Descending in Private Life to provide opinions on this subject—but it does so in a way that is richer and more thoughtfully considered than most discussions you’ll find.
Author Tiffany Jenkins, a cultural historian, states, “Many attribute the rise of self-indulgent individuals broadcasting their lives online to narcissism, as well as tech companies that consume personal data, while overlooking the deeper changes at play.” This book explores those profound shifts.
Jenkins chronicles these developments primarily in the 20th century, revealing their multifaceted nature. The chapters address everything from the invasive capabilities of small cameras to the disruptive effects of Kodak Veeder to the significant implications of Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky, which turned private matters into political upheaval.
Key highlights include the narratives of radical American groups in the 1960s, such as Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), who advocated for personal freedom yet ironically curtailed it. One activist couple even faced criticism for the “crime” of “Flagrant Monogamy,” as SDS yearned for purer and more innocent participants.
Even scientific thinkers aren’t exempt from this narrative. The early 20th-century activism of Paul Lazarsfeld, Edward Bernays, and Ernest Dichter focused on transforming people into data points. Though they meant no harm, their work undermined the notion that certain aspects of life should remain private and untouchable by corporate interests. The same can be said for Alfred Kinsey’s notorious research into human sexuality. Is nothing sacred?
We have allowed our two worlds to be compromised and blurred. The private is increasingly becoming public.
However, privacy did not disappear outright in the 20th century. Instead, it adapted, evolved, and resisted. Jenkins references Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Katz v. United States, emphasizing that her analysis encompasses a complex mix of laws, cultures, technologies, and even housing policies.
Nonetheless, Jenkins concludes that privacy has indeed diminished overall, particularly as the first half of the book meticulously charts its decline.
The discussion begins with the revolutionary appeals for personal conscience by Martin Luther and Thomas More in the 16th century, tracing through various religious and personal freedoms of the 17th century. Intimate with Strangers thoroughly examines these developments over the centuries.
Specifically regarding the 18th century, Jenkins argues that it marked the “arrival of the public and private domains.” In fact, she posits that this evolution may overshadow all other Enlightenment developments. This is a historical account that offers novel insights into our shared past.
It ultimately brings us back to our increasingly surveilled reality. “Had there been a clear demarcation between public and private realms at the inception of the World Wide Web, our online landscape would be vastly different today,” Jenkins asserts. Since the 18th century, we’ve allowed for a blurring of lines where privacy increasingly encroaches upon public life.
And what do we stand to lose? Quite a lot—though not everything is gone. “Originality begins in private,” Jenkins reflects in the epilogue. From this, we can infer that Intimate with Strangers began with precious privacy.
Peter Hoskin is the book and culture editor for Prospect Magazine
New Scientist Book Club
Do you enjoy reading? Join a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we delve into exciting new titles, providing members exclusive access to book excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.
Image captured by a Ukrainian drone during operation
upi/alamy
On June 1, Ukraine made headlines with a daring strike on Russian air bases. Utilizing inexpensive, compact drones concealed within trucks that had ventured deep into Russian territory, Ukraine successfully targeted numerous strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons, resulting in a loss of $7 billion in military assets.
The drone swarm operation, dubbed Operation Spider-Web, showcased remarkable military strategy while also exposing the vulnerabilities that defense leaders globally may soon confront.
“Currently, there’s a 100% likelihood of a small drone assault on air bases in the US or UK,” stated Robert Bunker, a consultant for US firm C/O Futures. “A group with intention and capability is needed. This is a very modest expectation.”
The Ukrainian security service SBU reported that 117 first-person view drones were deployed in the attack, each carrying several kilograms of explosives provided by racing quadcopters. Last year, countries produced approximately 1.5 million of these drones for battlefield applications, each costing a few hundred dollars. Although they typically have a range of about 20 km, Operation Spider-Web demonstrated their capability to reach target areas and operate remotely.
The assault did not catch US defense analysts off-guard. According to Zachary Karenbourne, who authored a 2019 analysis on potential threats to strategic bombers: “Ukraine’s operation had a much broader scope and impact than I anticipated. I initially believed such an attack was merely part of a larger assault on enemy nuclear assets, but Ukraine managed to neutralize 34% of its nuclear bomber fleet with an exceptionally coordinated effort.”
What steps should nations undertake to shield themselves against comparable assaults? Generally, there are three strategies: physical barriers, electronic defenses, and kinetic measures.
The initial approach seems straightforward—erect physical defenses to deter drones. Some Russian aircraft targeted by Ukraine were stationed in bays protected by concrete blast walls or earthen berms meant to shield against ground explosions. However, these measures do not safeguard against aerial strikes. Russia is currently racing to construct hardened aircraft shelters, which are costly, running into millions and sufficiently large for fighters. There was an assumption that larger strategic bombers could forgo this protection, as they were expected to remain distant from frontlines and threats.
Anti-drone nets represent a more economical solution and have been adopted by both Ukraine and Russia in battlefield scenarios. Reportedly, Russian authorities have recommended implementing such barriers in airspace. However, following the Ukrainian strike, the challenge is that these nets can be easily dismantled.
“The net provides decent defense against initial UAS [Uncrewed Aerial System] attacks,” Bunker notes. Yet, given the low cost of drones, attackers can launch a first wave to neutralize the net before proceeding with subsequent strikes.
What about electronic defenses? Both Russia and Ukraine are currently utilizing jamming technologies to disrupt the communication between drones and their operators. While this can be effective in wartime, jammers typically function over limited ranges, necessitating comprehensive coverage of the airbase. “They need to be deployed and monitored around the clock,” Bunker indicates.
This approach has its complications. The operations of Spider-Web employed commercial mobile networks, but attackers can utilize any frequency to command the drone, so blanket jamming of all channels might not be feasible. “Jammers can disrupt friendly communications,” warns Karenbourne. “To forestall such assaults, we may have to endure increased risks to our own operations.”
Moreover, the SBU claims that the drones were designed to anticipate jamming and were outfitted with AI systems enabling them to reach their targets autonomously. Such drones are virtually impervious to jamming.
This leaves kinetic measures as a final defense. Known as shooting down drones, Russian airfields were fortified against conventional aerial attacks via surface-to-air missile systems and mobile anti-aircraft units, but these were ill-equipped to detect or engage small drones.
“A weaponry system designed for this task demands advanced acquisition and targeting capabilities to be effective against armed drones,” Bunker states. “If operated by humans, they need to be distributed strategically across the facility for defense and manned continuously.”
Auto-defense mechanisms present promising options, and Ukraine is already deploying AI-driven anti-drone machine gun turrets to safeguard cities from Russian assaults involving substantial Shahed drones. However, at an expense of around $100,000 each, these turrets can be easily surpassed by smaller, more affordable drones utilized in the Spider-Web operation. “A swarm of drones could well succeed,” Karenbourne admits.
In summary, while there is no definitive solution, militaries urgently need to discover ways to mitigate this looming threat. A recent statement from a US Air Force General to the Senate Committee noted that in 2024 alone, over 350 unauthorized drones infiltrated military installations across the United States. Moreover, American bases in the UK have reported similar drone incursions.
“While many may be hobbyists, at least some are definitely adversaries,” adds Karenbourne. These hostile drones are likely engaging in intelligence-gathering rather than attempts to strike. “If we were in a conflict with China, that might change dramatically.”
This indicates that operations akin to Spider-Web could easily be replicated, in Russia or elsewhere. “This issue extends far beyond a significant vulnerability,” Bunker concludes. “Current defenses cannot be adequately reinforced. The situation is deteriorating rapidly.”
While scientists pursuing cancer therapies find ample support, those researching diseases in potatoes face greater challenges in garnering attention and funding.
The Trump administration seems to have adopted the notion that many scientific pursuits are viewed as unnecessary or opaque, resulting in billions in proposed cuts to research funding.
Amidst this crisis, researchers are exploring innovative ways to garner public and political backing to counteract funding reductions.
A collective of Cornell graduate students aims to reshape public perceptions of science. They have enlisted over 500 researchers from all 50 states to write OP-EDs for local newspapers, which are set to be published next week. This initiative was proposed by Emma Scales, a Cornell doctoral student involved in the campaign.
“We’re engaging with people who are frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding funding allocations,” Scales explained. “I understand that I’m one of those who utilizes your resources. I apologize for not communicating better, but I’d appreciate feedback about my work.”
Isaco di Tomasi, Hannah Frank, Emma Scales, and Alex Rand lead the Cornell Policy Club, coordinating McClintock’s letters. Courtesy Emma Scale
The initiative, known as McClintock Characters, is one of several ongoing efforts by graduate students and faculty aimed at the same goal.
This reflects a mainstay belief that researchers cannot assume public support is a given. If proactive measures aren’t taken soon, many are beginning to realize that the public’s trust in scientists is waning, and funding may not be reinstated.
Science Homecoming letter-writing campaigns urge scholars to emphasize the importance of government investments in scientific endeavors. The new nonprofit, Stand Up for Science, is organizing demonstrations at State Fairs and Farmers Markets this summer, along with community Teach-Ins and Open Lab Days. Another new group, Your Neighborhood Scientist, publishes essays by researchers and fosters community-based dialogues about science.
Audrey Dorottos, a neuroscientist from the University of Pennsylvania and co-founder of Your Neighborhood Scientist, sees her work as a means for scientists to express their enthusiasm.
“We aren’t just contributing static noise; we aim to humanize scientists, which is a fundamental objective,” she said.
Di Tomasi is delving into the fungal disease that contributed to the potato famine in Ireland. Courtesy Isako di Tomassi
The motivation behind the McClintock letters emerged in February when Isako Di Tomassi, a plant pathology doctoral student, expressed his frustrations online after losing his PhD advisor at the US Department of Agriculture due to recent significant government layoffs.
While Di Tomassi encountered some sympathy online, one commenter remarked that funding cuts were beneficial since they halted “frivolous research,” and many others expressed confusion regarding the purpose of their studies.
Di Tomasi and Scales began brainstorming solutions through the Cornell Advanced Science and Policy Club to facilitate researchers sharing their narratives.
They organized these efforts in tribute to the late Nobel Prize-winning cytologist Barbara McClintock, timing their actions for her birthday on June 16. Her research altered scientists’ understanding of genetic inheritance in corn, laying the groundwork for advancements in treating genetic disorders in humans.
Barbara McClintock, a pioneer in genetic research at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in Long Island, NY, circa 1947. AP
“Barbara McClintock is incredibly renowned,” Di Tomasi remarked.
Nevertheless, Di Tomasi noted that the aim is to bridge the gap between scientific professionals and public understanding, emphasizing that even routine experiments can be pivotal for medical and scientific advancements.
Researchers have committed to discussing a variety of topics, from breast cancer metastasis to memory formation and sustainable grape cultivation. Based on the collective audience sizes targeted by the organizers’ chosen news outlets, they anticipate reaching 8 million potential readers.
During a webinar on June 6, Katherine Xue, a microbiologist at the University of California, Irvine, guided about 100 participants on composing OP-EDs, using a 2015 OP-ED by Newt Gingrich advocating for increased research funding as a reference.
Xue encouraged participants to avoid technical jargon and to inject personal elements. She intends to write an article for her hometown newspaper in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, highlighting how her high school internships fueled her interest in microbiology.
“As scientists, we are conditioned to maintain a sense of detachment, but this approach has limitations,” Xue explained to NBC News. “Many people don’t see scientists as relatable, nor do they grasp what we are doing and why. This can lead to distrust in science.”
Recent surveys back up her assertions, revealing that while 76% of Americans express confidence in scientists, this number has dwindled from 87% in 2020, as reported by a Pew Research Center study. The report also noted that a majority of Americans believe scientists are poor communicators, and nearly half feel that scientists view themselves as superior.
The notion of supposedly frivolous research projects has long been a target for criticism. Some senators have highlighted what they perceive as wasteful spending in scientific research.
In a speech to Congress, Trump criticized what he considered absurdly funded projects backed by the Biden administration, including research misrepresented as making mice transgender (though in reality, it examined the effects of hormones on health and fertility). The White House defended the President’s comments.
In response to inquiries regarding the reduction of research funding, White House spokesperson Kush Desai stated that the administration is aligning with voter priorities. “The American people have tasked President Trump with recalibrating government expenditures to align with their values,” he clarified in an email. “The administration is committed to fulfilling this mandate.”
President Donald Trump criticized federally funded research during a congressional address on March 4th. Allison Robbert/AFP via Getty Images
For her upcoming book, Salmon Cannon and Floating Frog, Carly Ann York, an animal behaviorist at Lenore Lynn University in North Carolina, spotlighted several scientists who have faced scrutiny to advocate for their research.
One professor included in the book reacted with humor to the label “waste” applied to her research by participating in collaborative efforts with fellow scholars, like creating a mini science fair on Capitol Hill, to share research insights on shrimp combat inspiring new body armor designs for humans.
Carly Ann York became committed to scientific communication after grappling with explaining her studies on squid physiology to others years ago. Courtesy Carly York
“I hope more scientists adopt this mindset,” York stated. “It’s our responsibility to help the public comprehend how taxpayer money is utilized in research, what we do, and the impact of our work.”
Will the McClintock letters and similar initiatives achieve their intended results? While it’s uncertain how many students and faculty will participate, many participants hope their goals reach beyond immediate outcomes.
According to Michael Rubel, a physics professor at New York City College and a former Director of Public Relations for the American Physical Society, success hinges on sustained engagement with the public.
Rubel remarked that scientists should actively participate by attending community groups like Rotary clubs, churches, or PTA meetings.
“If researchers wait for the public to come to them, they will only engage a fraction of the population, and I doubt this will effect meaningful change,” he stated. “Meet audiences where they are. Understand what they value. You might be surprised.”
Astronomers have identified the largest known cloud of energy particles encircling galaxy clusters, with around 20 million annual clouds around the galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9.
This new composite image, created using X-rays from NASA’s Chandra X-Ray Observatory (blue and purple), radio data from Meerkat Radio Telescope (orange and yellow), and optical images from Panstarrs (red, green, and blue), illustrates the giant galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9. Image credit: NASA/CXC/CFA/Rajpurohit et al. / panstarrs / sarao / meerkat / sao / n. wolk.
Located 5 billion light years from Earth in the Hydra constellation, PLCK G287.0+32.9 has garnered astronomers’ attention since its initial detection in 2011.
Prior research uncovered two bright relics, revealing a massive shock wave illuminating the cluster’s edges. However, the extensive, faint radio emissions filling the space between them went unnoticed.
Recent radio images have shown that the entire cluster is enveloped in a faint radio glow that is nearly 20 times the diameter of the Milky Way, suggesting an extraordinary and powerful phenomenon at play.
“We anticipated finding a bright pair of relics at the cluster’s edge. Found “The Harvard & Smithsonian Astrophysics Center” mentioned: “The Harvard & Smithsonian’s Astrophysics Center is a great way to help you get started,” Dr. Kamursh Rajprohit, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, noted.
“No energy particle clouds of this magnitude have been spotted in such galaxy clusters or anything comparable.”
Previous record holders, located around Abel 2255 in the Galaxy Cluster, spanned about 16.3 million light years.
In the central region of the cluster, Dr. Rajprohit and his team identified radio halos where frequencies of this scale are typically undetectable, marking the first discovery of size at 114 million light years at 2.4 GHz.
The findings posed questions for the team, providing compelling evidence of magnetic fields where cosmic ray electrons and magnetic fields extend throughout the cluster.
However, it remains uncertain how these electrons can accelerate over such vast distances.
“Very extended radio halos are seldom visible across most frequencies, as the electrons responsible for them tend to lose energy. They are aged and have cooled over time,” Dr. Rajpurohit stated.
“The discovery of this colossal halo has now led to a significant increase in radio emissions between the catastrophic impact and the rest of the cluster.”
“This suggests something is actively accelerating or re-accelerating the electrons, yet none of the usual explanations apply.”
“We suspect that extensive shock waves and turbulence may be contributing factors, but additional theoretical models are needed to arrive at a definitive conclusion.”
This discovery offers researchers a new pathway to investigate cosmic magnetic fields—one of the primary unanswered questions in astrophysics—helping to elucidate how magnetic fields shape the universe on the largest scales.
“We’re beginning to perceive space in ways we have never imagined,” Dr. Rajprohit emphasized.
“This necessitates a reevaluation of how energy and matter traverse through its grandest structures.”
“Observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, managed by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, reveal boxy structures, comet-like tails, and several other distinct features of the cluster’s hot gas, indicating that the cluster is highly disturbed.”
“Some of these X-ray features correspond with radio-detected structures, pointing to substantial shocks and turbulence driven by merging events, facilitating electron acceleration or re-acceleration.”
“In the core of a cluster, some of these features may arise from the merger of two smaller galaxy clusters, or an explosion triggered by an exceptionally large black hole, or a combination of both.”
Paleontologists employing a novel method of geographic analysis have theorized about the dispersion of paleo-ausauromorphs following the Permian mass extinction, one of the most significant climate events in Earth’s history.
The earliest pale aurauromorphs, akin to contemporary reptiles, are perceived by many synthetic biologists as existing in dead zones, believed to thrive only in select regions due to extreme heat prevalent in tropical zones.
In a recent study, paleontologist Joseph Flannery Sutherland from the University of Birmingham, along with his team, uncovered clues on how these reptiles traversed the globe during the Triassic period.
The researchers employed a novel modeling technique grounded in landscape reconstruction and evolutionary phylogenies.
Having survived the extinction event, Archosauromorphs became a crucial component of the Triassic Earth’s ecosystem, paving the way for the emergence of dinosaurs.
Current research indicates their later success can be attributed to their ability to traverse up to 16,000 km (10,000 miles) across tropical dead zones to explore new ecosystems.
“Despite being among the direst climatic events in Earth’s timeline, resulting in the death of more species than in any other epoch, life persisted,” remarked Dr. Flannery Sasherland.
“The group of Archosauromorphs emerged from this event and became key players in shaping life thereafter.”
“The gaps in their fossil records are beginning to reveal insights into aspects of these reptiles we previously overlooked.”
“By utilizing the modeling system, we created images representing the condition of Archosauromorphs amid these gaps and their dispersal across the ancient landscape.”
“This research examined topography and routes mapped through both spatial and temporal dimensions, which we have coined as our ‘Tardis’ approach.”
“Our findings suggest these reptiles exhibit remarkable resilience to the extreme climates of the Panguian tropical dead zone, enabling them to endure these harsh conditions and reach distant regions.”
“This capacity to thrive in inhospitable tropical environments likely gave them the edge necessary to prosper in the Triassic landscape.”
“While life has often been dictated by environmental factors, integrating the limited and uncertain knowledge of ancient terrains with the incomplete understanding of extinct species is challenging,” stated Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.
“However, combining fossil data with reconstructed maps of the ancient world offers a means to address these challenges within the context of evolutionary trees.”
Study published in the journal Natural Ecology and Evolution.
____
JT Flannery-Sutherland et al. The phylogeny, described as a landscape, illuminates the ecological radiation of early paleoasauromorph reptiles. Nat Ecol Evol Published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41559-025-02739-y
Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of the content while preserving the HTML structure:
A recent study by astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope aimed to uncover signs of interaction between Uranus’ magnetic environment and the surfaces of its four largest moons: Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon. The researchers predicted that, due to interactions with Uranus’ magnetosphere, the “leading” sides of these tidally locked moons should be brighter and more consistently illuminated compared to their “trailing” sides. This expectation stemmed from the belief that radiation darkening occurs on the trailing sides due to charged particles, such as electrons, captured in Uranus’ magnetosphere. However, their observations revealed no evidence of darkening on the trailing sides of the moons but found evident darkening on the leading side of the outer moon instead.
This web image displays Uranus alongside six of its 27 known moons (most of which are too small to be captured in this brief exposure). Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/J. DEPASQUALE, STSCI.
Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon are tidally locked, consistently presenting the same faces toward Uranus.
The hemisphere of the moon that faces the direction of its orbit is termed the leading hemisphere, while the side that turns away is the trailing hemisphere.
The initial hypothesis suggested that charged particles captured along the magnetic field lines would hit the trailing sides of each moon, leading to darkening of those hemispheres.
“They are working diligently to understand this phenomenon,” noted Dr. Richard Cartwright, a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Applied Physics at Johns Hopkins University.
“To start, Uranus has an axial tilt of 98 degrees relative to its orbit.”
“This significant tilt means Uranus is dramatically askew in relation to the planetary orbital plane. Completing its 84-year orbit, it rolls quite slowly around the sun.”
“Observations during the Voyager 2 flyby indicated that Uranus’ magnetosphere was tilted about 59 degrees from the satellite’s orbital plane, suggesting a further inclination in the magnetic field.”
Uranus’ magnetic field lines rotate more swiftly than the moons orbit the planet, resulting in the magnetic field lines continuously sweeping by the moons.
If the Uranus magnetosphere interacts with the moons, the charged particles should preferentially strike the surface of the leading side.
These charged particles and cosmic rays from our galaxy could potentially cause darkening effects on the trailing hemispheres of Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon, which could lead to the presence of carbon dioxide detected on these moons.
Astronomers anticipated that the trailing hemispheres would show greater darkness compared to the leading ones, particularly for the inner moons, Ariel and Umbriel.
However, the findings contradicted this expectation, revealing that the leading and trailing hemispheres of both Ariel and Umbriel are quite similar in brightness.
Conversely, researchers noted observable differences in the outer moons, Titania and Oberon.
In an intriguing twist, the brightness variations were opposite to their hypotheses.
Both outer moons exhibit a darker, reddish leading hemisphere contrasted against their brighter trailing hemispheres.
The research team suspects that dust from Uranus’ irregular satellites coats the leading hemispheres of Titania and Oberon.
Irregular satellites are celestial bodies characterized by large, eccentric, and inclined orbits inrelation to their parent planet’s equatorial plane.
Constant impacts from micrometeorites on Uranus’ irregular satellites eject small particles into orbits around the planet.
Over millions of years, this particulate matter drifts inward towards Uranus, eventually crossing the orbits of Titania and Oberon.
These outer moons effectively collect this dust, particularly on their leading hemispheres.
It’s analogous to an insect striking the windshield of a car as it drives down the freeway.
This accumulated material results in Titania and Oberon exhibiting darker, reddish leading hemispheres.
These outer moons appear to shield Ariel and Umbriel from dust, resulting in no noticeable brightness differences for the inner moons.
“I believe a similar process occurs within the Saturn system and possibly the Jupiter system,” stated Dr. Brian Holler, an astronomer at the Institute of Space Telescope Science.
“This represents some of the first evidence we’ve gathered regarding material exchanges between Uranus’ moons.”
“It supports an alternative theory involving dust accumulation. I wasn’t initially inclined to accept this hypothesis, but the data often takes you by surprise,” Dr. Cartwright remarked.
These revelations lead scientists to suspect that Uranus’ magnetosphere may possess a more complex structure than previously assumed.
While there may be interactions between Uranus’ moons and its magnetosphere, they do not seem to yield the predicted asymmetries in the leading and trailing hemispheres, contrary to initial expectations.
Unraveling this mystery will necessitate further exploration into the enigmatic Uranus, its magnetosphere, and its moons.
This revised text maintains the original HTML structure while presenting the information in a different manner.
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have discovered a silicate cloud in the atmosphere of the exoplanet YSES-1C and a disk in the evasion facility surrounding the planet YSES-1B.
Artist rendering of the YSES-1 system, featuring a central sun-like star, YSES-1B with its dusty evasive disc (right), and YSES-1C’s atmospheric silicate clouds. Image credit: Ellis Bogut.
YSES-1 is a solar-type star located approximately 309 light-years away in the constellation of Masca.
Also referred to as TYC 8998-760-1 or 2mass J13251211-6456207, this star is roughly equivalent in mass to our Sun but is only 16.7 million years old.
The system comprises two planets, YSES-1B and YSES-1C.
These planets orbit their parent star at distances of 160 and 320 AU, making them more distant from their star than Jupiter and Saturn are from the Sun.
YSES-1B and C could exhibit redder hues compared to other exoplanets (or brown dwarfs), indicating distinct atmospheric properties.
While the system has been observed with various telescopes before the Webb, comprehensive observations were not achievable prior to the Webb program.
“Directly imaged exoplanets are the only types we can truly photograph,” stated Dr. Ebert Nazkin, a postdoctoral researcher at Trinity College Dublin.
“Typically, these exoplanets are younger, hotter from their formative layers, and astronomers observe this heat in the thermal infrared spectrum.”
Utilizing Webb’s spectroscopic capabilities, Dr. Nasedkin and his team obtained detailed spectra of the planets YSES-1B and YSES-1C.
These observations include the first direct detection of atmospheric silicate clouds on YSES-1C, validating prior hypotheses regarding its atmospheric structure.
These silicate clouds likely contain iron, which might contribute to rainfall on the planet.
Astronomers estimate that the cloud particles are less than 0.1 μm in size.
“Upon observing a smaller, more distant companion identified as YSES-1C, I detected a silicate cloud signature in the mid-infrared,” Dr. Nasedkin remarked.
“Composed primarily of sand-like particles, this represents the strongest silicate absorption feature documented in an exoplanet.”
“We believe this is connected to the planet’s youth. Younger planets tend to have slightly larger radii, and this expanded atmosphere enables clouds to absorb more light emitted by the planet.”
“We were able to employ detailed modeling to uncover the chemical makeup of these clouds as well as the size and shape of the cloud particles.”
The team also identified silicate disks surrounding YSES-1B, marking a rare observation of a substellar companion exoplanet.
This finding suggests that YSES-1B may be a relatively recently formed planet.
The discoveries enhance our understanding of the early stages of planetary formation and atmospheric development.
“The planets within the YSES-1 system are so widely separated that current formation theories cannot explain them. The discovery of distinct silicate clouds around YSES-1C and additional findings of small, hot, dusty materials around YSES-1B introduces further mystery and complexity regarding how planets form and evolve.”
The team’s results will be featured in the journal Nature this week.
____
kkw hoch et al. Silicate cloud and evasive agent disks in the YSES-1 exoplanet system. Nature Published online on June 10th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09174-w
The newly discovered tyrannosaurid species, scientifically named Khankhuulu Mongoliensis, is recognized as the most notable ancestor of Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Khankhuulu Mongoliensis. Image credit: Julius Csotonyi.
Khankhuulu Mongoliensis roamed the Earth during the Cretaceous period approximately 86 million years ago.
This dinosaur was a medium-sized, swift predator that emerged after the extinction of other large predatory dinosaurs.
As the most famed ancestor, it exhibited numerous similarities with the later Tyrannosaurus descendants.
Resembling the size of a horse (750 kg), Khankhuulu Mongoliensis was two to three times smaller than its colossal descendants.
It featured small rudimentary horns that evolved into more significant attributes in species like Albertosaurus or Golgosaurus, likely used for mating displays and intimidation.
Characterized by a long, shallow skull, Khankhuulu Mongoliensis lacked the bone-crushing capabilities seen in Tyrannosaurus Rex.
This new species can be likened to mesopredators, similar to modern coyotes, utilizing speed and agility to capture prey.
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis offers invaluable insights into the early stages of Tyrannosaurus evolution. We’ve observed numerous intriguing challenges in their evolutionary history,” remarked Jared Voris, a paleontologist at the University of Calgary.
Two partial skeletons of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis were discovered in the Baiansily Formation in southeastern Mongolia during 1972 and 1973.
Analysis of the specimens indicates that this new species is a close relative of the dinosaur group eutyrannosauria, serving as a direct ancestor to the giant, long-snouted tyrannosaurs and the shallower-nosed Ariolamini clade.
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or closely related species likely migrated from Asia to North America approximately 85 million years ago,” stated Dr. Darla Zelenitsky, Ph.D. from the University of Calgary.
“Our findings suggest that a large-scale tyrannosaur was the first to evolve in North America due to this immigration event.”
“The results indicate that the migratory patterns of tyrannosaurs between Asia and North America were less frequent and more erratic than previously understood.”
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or its relatives crossed the land bridge into North America, eventually evolving into the iconic apex predator, Tyrannosaurus Rex.
The fossil record indicates that Tyrannosaurus was exclusive to North America for millions of years before its lineage split in Asia, leading to two distinct groups.
One lineage evolved into larger apex predators, ultimately resulting in Tyrannosaurus Rex, while another developed into medium-sized, elongated species dubbed Pinocchiolex.
The discovery of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis is detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.
____
JT Voris et al. The evolution of the new Mongolian tyrannosaur and Euthiranosaur. Nature published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08964-6
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed on Wednesday its intention to lift current limitations on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.
EPA administrator Lee Zeldin stated at a press conference that the carbon pollution standards established during the Biden administration “stifle” economic growth in the name of environmental protection. Zeldin, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in January, emphasized that this announcement marks significant progress in US energy management and reassured that the agency would not allow power plants to generate more electricity than they currently do. Presently, the electricity sector represents a quarter of total US emissions. Latest EPA Emissions Data.
Zeldin also indicated that the EPA plans to roll back regulations related to mercury emissions from power plants set by the Biden administration.
Environmental advocates argue that the EPA’s proposal intensifies the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to reshape climate initiatives across various federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Energy, and the National Weather Service. In 2024, the Biden administration confirmed its commitment to address the climate crisis with the most stringent carbon pollution standards for power plants to date, which now face an uncertain future.
Gina McCarthy, who served as EPA administrator under President Joe Biden, described Zeldin’s announcement as a “political maneuver” in a statement on Wednesday that dismissed a “decade of scientific research and policy evaluation.”
“By allowing increased pollution, his legacy will be defined by those who cater to the fossil fuel industry at the cost of public health,” McCarthy stated.
On January 25th, Jeffrey Energy Center’s coal-fired power plant near Emmett, Kansas. Charlie Riedel / AP file
“Science and daily observations tell us that removing pollution standards on the largest industrial gas polluters in the United States is a mistake,” stated Jill Tauber, vice president of climate and energy litigation at Earthjustice, a nonprofit currently involved in litigation against the Trump administration over various environmental rollbacks.
US power plants are significant sources of global carbon emissions. A report from the Institute of Policy Integrity at New York University indicates that if the US electricity sector were treated as a separate nation, it would rank as the sixth largest emitter worldwide.
During the first Trump administration, the EPA loosened several Obama-era greenhouse gas regulations for power plants, but this latest announcement marks a shift towards completely eliminating such standards. Zeldin is following through on his commitment made in March to challenge the “religion of climate change” by revisiting or rescinding 31 regulations related to tailpipe emissions, coal ash, and wastewater management from oil and gas.
The proposed regulations, which are now open for public commentary, are facing scrutiny from legal advocates and environmental organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council. They contend that the EPA has a legal obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.Legal precedent mandates that greenhouse gases be controlled by the EPA under the Clean Air Act.
“We are closely monitoring whether the EPA will remove these crucial standards based on legal reasoning that is likely to be unviable,” remarked Meredith Hawkins, Federal Climate Law Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The NRDC is prepared to take legal action to ensure our right to breathe clean air is upheld.”
Reducing historic limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants could significantly influence global climate change, as well as have adverse effects on human health and the economy.
Harvey Writer, a lawyer and law professor at George Washington University, expressed hope that if the EPA pursues its planned deregulation, energy companies and utilities committed to renewable energy investments will challenge the Trump administration in court.
“The primary consequence of the proposed regulations is uncertainty and instability,” he stated. “It leaves stakeholders unsure about the next steps ahead. This complicates investment choices and affects job-related decisions, generating widespread market uncertainty.”
Greenhouse gas emissions from power plants extend beyond climate concerns. The combustion of fossil fuels emits carbon dioxide and various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and particulate matter. These pollutants are linked to higher instances of respiratory ailments and cardiovascular disease. Regulating carbon emissions from power plants can lead to a broader reduction in air pollution for communities near these facilities, according to Laura Kate Bender, vice president of national advocacy and public policy at the American Lung Association.
“This is a dual-edged sword. On the one hand, fossil fuel-fired power plants exacerbate climate change while simultaneously causing health issues,” Bender noted. “Climate change is a public health crisis, and mitigating carbon emissions in the electricity sector is crucial to addressing this emergency.”
Observations from the spacecraft have revealed the presence of both Arctic and Antarctic magnetic fields in the Sun’s southern hemisphere. This complex magnetic configuration is predicted to persist only temporarily during the solar maximum before undergoing a magnetic field reversal.
The European Space Agency (ESA) states that as the Sun transitions to its quieter solar minimum phase, this accumulation at the poles should occur gradually over time.
“The precise mechanics of this accumulation are still not fully understood. However, the Solar Orbiter has reached high latitudes at a crucial time to observe the entire process from a unique vantage point,” explains Sami Solanki, director of the Max Planck Institute for Solar Systems Research in Germany and a scientist working with the Solar Orbiter project.
While scientists have previously captured close-up images of the Sun, these were primarily taken from the Sun’s equator by various spacecraft and observatories.
The Solar Orbiter’s mission included a journey through the cosmos, featuring a close flyby of Venus, which allowed the spacecraft to tilt its orbit for a better view of the Sun’s higher latitudes.
The recently released image was captured in late March when the Solar Orbiter was positioned 15 degrees below the Sun’s equator, shortly followed by another observation at 17 degrees below the equator.
“We had no clear expectations for these initial observations. The Sun’s polarity is truly uncharted territory,” Solanki stated, as mentioned in a statement.
Launched in February 2020, the Solar Orbiter mission is a collaborative effort led by Europe in conjunction with NASA.
In the coming years, the Solar Orbiter’s trajectory is expected to tilt even more, providing increasingly direct views of the solar polar regions. According to ESA, the most impressive observations may still be on the horizon.
“This data will transform our understanding of solar magnetic fields, solar winds, and solar activity,” states Daniel Muller, the Solar Orbiter project scientist at ESA.
The Minion character originates from films produced by Universal Pictures.
Movie/Aramie
Disney and Universal have initiated a lawsuit against the AI image generator Midjourney, alleging widespread copyright infringement that enables users to produce images that “explicitly incorporate and mimic well-known Disney and Universal characters.” This lawsuit could mark a significant shift in the ongoing legal discourse surrounding AI-related copyright issues faced by book publishers, news outlets, and other content creators.
The Midjourney tool, which generates images based on textual prompts, boasts around 20 million users on its Discord platform. Users provide their input for creation.
In the lawsuit, the two film production giants provide examples where Midjourney can generate images surprisingly similar to characters it does not own rights to, like the Disney-owned Minions and characters from The Lion King. They assert that these results stem from the AI being trained on their copyrighted materials. They also contend that Midjourney “disregarded” their attempts to resolve these issues before resorting to legal action.
The complaint states, “Midjourney is a classic copyright-free rider and an endless source of plagiarism.” Midjourney has not yet issued a response to New Scientist‘s request for comment.
The lawsuit is applauded by Ed Newton Rex, a nonprofit advocate for fairer training practices within AI companies. “This is a monumental day for creators globally,” he comments. “The government has displayed unsettling tendencies toward legalizing intellectual property theft, potentially yielding to the intense lobbying from Big Tech.
Newton-Rex alleges that Midjourney engineers previously justified their actions on the grounds that the art had become “ossified.” “Fortunately, this absurd defense is unlikely to hold up in court,” he adds.
Legal experts express candid perspectives on Midjourney’s likelihood of success. “It’s Disney; thus, Midjourney is in a precarious position, please excuse my bluntness,” remarks Andres Guadams from the University of Sussex, UK.
Guadams emphasizes Disney’s resolute approach to safeguarding its intellectual property—rarely, but effectively—underscoring the necessity of this intervention. The film studio took action several months following other entities, such as news publishers, in their pursuit against AI companies for the alleged unauthorized use of their creations. Many of those disputes were resolved through licensing agreements between the AI firms and copyright holders.
“Media conglomerates are excited about potential breaches. The models have improved to such an extent that they can effortlessly create characters that come to mind,” states Guadams. He believes Disney is biding its time because “unlike publishers, they’re not simply seeking licenses to survive.”
The involvement of these two media powerhouses signals a pivotal moment at the intersection of AI and copyright, according to Guadams. “The fact that they are targeting Midjourney sends a clear message,” he states. Midjourney specializes in image generation exclusively, making it relatively small compared to major AI corporations. “This acts as a warning to larger entities, urging them to implement stronger protective measures.”
While many major AI companies incorporate image-generating features in their chatbots, they tend to impose stricter controls on users’ abilities to produce images featuring copyrighted characters through considerable limitations.
Disney, which generated $91 billion in revenue last year, is not seeking to profit from Midjourney. “This could act as a call for negotiations. Since AI is not going away, Disney may be setting a precedent for future business interactions,” notes Guadams.
One of the most significant yet frequently overlooked success stories of this century is the increasing number of individuals who are surviving cancer.
Several of these improvements can be attributed to reduced smoking rates and the establishment of national screening programs for various types of cancer. Additionally, advancements in treatment options have introduced groundbreaking therapies, especially in immunotherapy, encompassing monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and cancer vaccines.
Medications that focus on the interaction between cancer and our neurons show promising results
However, not all is positive. Despite encouraging advances, the incidence of cancer continues to rise, and there are indications that improvements in survival rates are slowing. To witness the extraordinary progress made thus far, one may need to reevaluate cancer from an entirely different perspective.
Fortunately, an emerging field known as cancer neuroscience may provide that new perspective, as detailed in a recent cover story. The realization that nerves play a crucial role in cancer proliferation and dissemination introduces a novel approach to treatment. Drugs designed to target the interaction between cancer cells and our neurons are already showing promise in clinical trials and are being hailed as potential breakthroughs in cancer therapy.
If cancer neuroscience leads to the next major breakthrough, the resulting drugs could be surprisingly affordable and accessible. For instance, some widely used beta blockers are currently under research.
This development is particularly welcome in light of the fact that many newer therapies can become prohibitively expensive, and challenges still exist in ensuring equitable, swift, and affordable access to optimal cancer treatments.
ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI Team, J. Hirzberger (MPS)
Thanks to the groundbreaking Solar Orbiter spacecraft, I had my first glimpse of the Antarctic region of the Sun. These images and other observations aim to enhance our ability to predict solar activity.
Capturing an image of the solar poles requires the spacecraft to move away from the zodiac plane, affecting nearly all objects in the solar system, which orbit within the sun’s flat disk. The Solar Orbiter, a collaborative effort between the European Space Agency and NASA, achieved this milestone. Launched in 2020, it gradually adjusted its trajectory to reach an angle steep enough to reveal the previously unseen polar areas of the Sun.
ESA unveiled the initial image of the Sun’s Antarctic region taken in March, with the spacecraft positioned at 15 degrees below the zodiac plane and currently at 17 degrees beneath it.
Seeing this image for the first time was truly remarkable. Lucy Green from University College London, which contributed to developing the Solar Orbiter, remarked, “We felt privileged as these previously concealed areas became accessible to us.”
The Antarctic of the Sun seen at various wavelengths
ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI, EUI, SPICE teams
The Solar Orbiter has also been using measurements of magnetic fields and high-energy radiation emerging from the Sun’s Antarctic region, data that ESA has now shared. Understanding the magnetic fields in this area is crucial for our comprehension of the solar cycle, which shows intensive activity roughly every 11 years, states Green. “To fully grasp the Sun as a star, we need to analyze the magnetic fields surrounding it. The magnetic regions at the poles are integral to this understanding.”
“It might seem paradoxical, but one of the most critical areas on the Sun for forecasting space weather on Earth is not visually appealing when seen from Earth: the solar poles,” says Matthew Owens from the University of Reading, UK.
“These new images provide unprecedented insights into regions near Antarctica. As the Solar Orbiter mission progresses, it will ascend to higher latitudes and provide even clearer views of the pole,” he remarks. Space weather forecasts depend on knowing the magnetic structure at the poles, especially during the Sun’s least active phases over the next three to four years, says Owens.
The Solar Orbiter has also offered us a look into the Sun’s Arctic, but ESA is awaiting the data’s return to Earth. In the meantime, you can explore the Arctic through an approximation crafted by ESA in 2018 using clever imaging techniques.
Nestled in a quieter street of vibrant central London, the headquarters of a significant yet under-the-radar climate organization awaits your discovery.
The Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF) annually allocates hundreds of millions of dollars to some of the most impactful campaign groups and scientific institutions, at the forefront of research and advocacy in green transitions. It funds initiatives such as anti-methane vaccines for livestock, sustainable aviation fuel, geothermal energy, and carbon capture technologies.
As research budgets tighten in universities and across the UK, organizations like QCF step in to facilitate the shift toward net-zero emissions.
Established in 2019 as a charitable arm of the Four Seasons hedge fund, the QCF empowers founders Greg Skinner and Sunil Setya to tackle climate challenges. Recently recognized in the Sunday Times Rich List for their philanthropic efforts, they contributed over $6.7 million to climate-related initiatives last week through the foundation. In total, QCF has dispersed over $1 billion to climate interventions, ranking it as one of the largest and most influential climate charities globally.
Who decides which research projects to back, what causes to prioritize, and the strategic direction to pursue? Greg de Temmerman, a former nuclear physicist and the QCF’s Chief Science Officer, is tasked with evaluating proposals to identify the most promising initiatives.
Madeleine Cuff: Could you explain your transition from a nuclear fusion focus to climate strategy?
Greg de Temmerman: I worked on the ITER project [an international fusion experiment based in France] for seven years, the largest scientific endeavor on Earth. Throughout this period, I engaged in outreach efforts to demystify fusion. Unfortunately, the project faced mounting delays.
I was frequently interacting with decision-makers, which illuminated the divide between scientific research and policy-making. Consequently, I chose to exit fusion in 2020 and co-founded a think tank with a Parisian entrepreneur, aiming to bridge the gap between policymakers and early-stage technology. In 2023, I joined the Quadrature Climate Foundation where I continue this mission, but now with greater resources to effect change.
Controversial geoengineering initiatives, like this insulation project in Switzerland, are under scrutiny
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images
Explain your current role at QCF.
QCF’s mission is to promote projects and partnerships that can drive global change. Our portfolio includes support for early-stage technologies, advocacy, campaigns, technical work, capacity building, and more. It’s crucial to identify the problem at hand.
For instance, one might say, “I want to boost renewable energy,” but what obstacles stand in the way? Is it financial resources? Infrastructure issues? I was brought on board to ask these critical questions and ensure we pursue the right solutions.
How does charitable funding differ from traditional investments and government support?
Charitable funding doesn’t seek financial returns, allowing for greater risk-taking than typical investments. Moreover, we can move more swiftly than government entities. Essentially, we both catalyze the net-zero movement and act as a catalyst for other funding sources.
With an impressive annual budget reaching around $325 million in 2025, do you face significant influences?
We are notable players in climate finance but still small in comparison to what’s needed for a successful climate transition. While it feels empowering to operate at this scale, our budget pales in comparison to the global demands of climate mitigation.
You support various initiatives, from studying climate change impacts to advocating for clean tech entrepreneurship. Can you share a particular success?
We were among the first substantial funders of permanent carbon removal techniques. Our initiatives aimed to develop a compliance market while emphasizing accountability measures. This became critical following discussions ignited by the last international climate change report, which highlighted the necessity for negative emissions, leading to serious dialogue on the subject.
Last year, you introduced a new strategy, shifting focus towards adaptation and resilience in climate change. What prompted this shift?
The climate crisis is accelerating, with more extreme weather events becoming a norm. Adaptation is essential to any decarbonization efforts. This new strategy seeks to unify our initiatives under a coherent vision, aligning with what our founders find most impactful.
As part of the new strategy, you’ll be supporting climate intervention research, particularly geoengineering, which can be contentious. What motivates this funding?
Indeed, these scientific endeavors should predominantly come from public funding, which has been lacking for various reasons. Thus, we decided to support this research to ensure that vital questions are being explored.
This sector raises major ethical concerns. How can you justify financial support for it?
I don’t have a definitive stance on the ethics of geoengineering. Currently, it’s a complex arena that necessitates rigorous understanding, and I don’t endorse any immediate applications of geoengineering techniques.
Our intent is to spark discussions about geoengineering, especially as new startups emerge in this field, despite existing research lagging behind.
Is your support strictly for foundational research, or do you engage with field trials as well?
Much of our backing centers around fundamental climate science. One pressing issue in geoengineering is understanding cloud formation, which parallels many critical challenges in climate science. We funded a minimal outdoor experiment in the U.S. that was suspended after a few weeks due to public backlash. We prefer to remain cautious and utilize robust climate models to predict the impacts of geoengineering. Comprehensive observational capabilities are essential for effective outdoor trials, and we believe there remains much work in foundational climate science.
In the current political climate, with leaders like former President Trump rolling back climate policies, how do you navigate these headwinds?
Transition involves disruption; established systems resist change while new ones emerge, and this tension can be challenging. It’s essential to foster understanding of this dynamic and communicate the complexities inherent to the transition process.
The upcoming years may be tough. Addressing climate issues has become increasingly challenging. In the UK, rising electricity costs compound the disconnect between the public’s perception of renewable energy benefits and their current bills, which can lead to skepticism.
However, there’s compelling motivation to move away from fossil fuels, independent of climate beliefs. Oil and gas markets are notoriously unstable, making diversification essential for resilience. The key is to demonstrate that energy transitions benefit everyone, regardless of their views on climate action.
Oil refinery at sunset in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Panoramic Images/Alamy
Climate disinformation and malign players pose challenges. What can be done to combat this?
Attacks on climate science persist, but the overwhelming evidence supports the scientific consensus. While some may cling to flat Earth beliefs, the facts remain clear. Increasingly, the discourse pivots to contesting solutions rather than the scientific basis itself. For instance, searching “Electric Car” on YouTube reveals numerous videos disputing their efficacy. These discussions, while interesting, rely heavily on data and understanding.
What exciting prospects lie ahead for QCF in the coming year?
To transform industries, we must bring down energy costs, and there are opportunities to achieve that. Furthermore, tackling industrial emissions—once deemed difficult—is now achievable with ready solutions. It’s an exhilarating time as skeptics claimed decarbonizing sectors like steel was impossible. But now, we know we can do it.
As you’ve identified as a major player, how do you cope with the responsibility of influencing climate transition?
It’s about recognizing our role within the broader system and acknowledging our limitations. It’s vital to approach initiatives with the belief that we can unlock new possibilities, while remaining open to the reality that we may not always be correct.
How do you maintain optimism in a time where climate progress appears stagnant?
I often say my optimism shines on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; I’m more pessimistic on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with Sundays reserved for reflection.
A man with paralysis is connected to a brain-computer interface system
Lisa E. Howard/Mitely Wairagkar et al. 2025
Men who have lost their ability to speak can engage in real-time conversations and even sing using brain-controlled synthetic voices.
The brain-computer interface captures neural activity through electrodes implanted in the brain, instantly creating audio sounds that match intended pitch, intonation, and emphasis.
“This represents a breakthrough in instantaneous speech synthesis, achieving this within 25 ms,” says Sergei Stavisky from the University of California, Davis.
While advancements are needed to improve speech clarity, Maitreyee Wairagkar, also at UC Davis, notes that the individual who lost his speech due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis expresses happiness and feels that he has found his true voice.
Existing speech neurospheres that utilize brain-computer interfaces typically require a few seconds to convert brain activity into sound. Stavisky mentions that this delays natural conversation and if the connection falters, it can feel like speaking on a poor-quality phone call.
To create a more seamless speech experience, Wairagkar, Stavisky, and their team implanted 256 electrodes in the areas of the male brain responsible for facial muscle control necessary for speech. In subsequent sessions, they introduced thousands of sentences on a screen, recorded brain activity, and prompted the subject to vocalize with specific intonations.
“For instance, phrases like ‘How are you today?’ or variations such as ‘How are you? today?’ can significantly alter the meaning of sentences,” explains Stavisky. “This approach allows for a richer, more natural dialog, marking a significant advancement over previous technologies.”
The researchers utilized an AI model trained to link particular patterns of neural activity with corresponding words and tonal variations, resulting in synthetic speech that mirrors both the content and emotional delivery intended by the user.
The AI was trained with audio recordings from before the male’s condition deteriorated, employing voice-cloning technology to ensure the synthetic speech bore a resemblance to his original voice.
In another phase of the study, researchers attempted to teach him to sing a simple melody with varying pitches, with their models accurately interpreting the intended pitch in real time and adjusting the produced singing voice accordingly.
He also utilizes the system to communicate spontaneously, making sounds such as “hmmm,” “eww,” and forming words, as noted by Wairagkar.
“He’s a remarkably articulate and intelligent individual,” says David Brandman from UC Davis. “Despite his paralysis, he has continued to participate actively in work and engage in meaningful conversations.”
Do our brains really develop from practically anything, allowing us to generate complex thoughts, actions, and even reflections on ourselves? Recent experiments with tadpoles have integrated electron implants into brain precursors during early embryonic stages, potentially bringing us closer to answering this question.
Earlier efforts to investigate neurodevelopment relied on tools like functional magnetic resonance imaging and rigid electrode wires. Unfortunately, the imaging resolution was often too low to be effective, while the rigid wires caused significant damage to the brain, yielding little more than a snapshot of specific developmental moments.
Researchers, including Jia Liu from Harvard University, discovered a material (a type of perfluropolymer) closely resembling brain tissue. They employed this to create a flexible, elastic mesh encasing an ultra-thin conductor, which was placed onto the neural plate—a flat structure that serves as the precursor to the brain—in the embryos of the African clawed frog (Axenopath Ravis).
As the neural plates folded and expanded, these ribbon-like meshes were enveloped by the developing brain, maintaining functionality amidst stretching and bending in the tissue. When the researchers sought to measure signals from the brain, they connected the meshes to computers to visualize neural activity.
The implants did not harm the brain nor provoke an immune reaction, and the tadpole embryos developed as anticipated. In fact, at least one grew into a normal frog, according to Liu.
“It’s incredible to integrate all these materials and ensure everything operates seamlessly,” said Christopher Bettinger from Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania. “This tool has the potential to significantly advance basic neuroscience by enabling biologists to observe neural activity throughout development.”
The team derived two key insights from their experiments. First, the patterns of neural activity shifted as tissue differentiated into specialized structures, resulting in distinct functions. Liu noted that tracking an organism’s self-organization to a computer was previously deemed impossible.
The second area of focus was how brain activity in animals changes following amputation. Traditionally, it was believed that electrical activity would revert to its original developmental state. The research team confirmed this by utilizing implants in experiments with Axolotls.
Liu’s team is now broadening their research to include rodents. Unlike amphibians, rodent development occurs within the uterus, making the implantation of meshes more challenging. It requires in vitro fertilization and more intricate signaling measurement techniques compared to simply wiring the mesh to computers. Nonetheless, Liu is optimistic that the insights gained from observing early stages of conditions like autism and schizophrenia will justify the complexities involved.
Bettinger mentioned that similar devices could also be applied to monitor neuromuscular regeneration following injuries and during rehabilitation. “Overall, this highlights the remarkable potential of highly compliant electronic applications,” he stated.
Autonomous AI agents may soon communicate across the Internet
Outflow Designs/Istockphoto/Getty Images
What does the future of the internet hold? As AI companies evolve, previously open web spaces are being overtaken by digital silos controlled by commercial AI models, sidelining enthusiasts and small businesses. In response, a coalition of grassroots researchers is determined to champion an open approach to AI.
Central to this effort is the notion of AI “agents.” These are software programs that navigate the web and interact with online platforms based on human directions, such as planning holidays and making bookings. Many perceive these agents as the next stage of evolution following services like ChatGPT, yet they face significant challenges in functionality. This is largely due to the web’s design, which favors human interaction; thus, developers are recognizing that AI agents require specialized protocols to effectively engage with online content, services, and each other.
“The objective is to establish infrastructure that facilitates communication among bots, much like software does,” explains Catherine Frick from Staffordshire University, UK.
Several competing solutions to this challenge have emerged. For instance, Anthropic, the creators of the Claude chatbot, have introduced the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which standardizes the way AI models connect to various data sources and tools. In April, Google announced its own take with the Agent2Agent (A2A) protocol, offering a distinct approach to this concept.
While these methods share similarities, they have important differences. MCP focuses on standardizing AI models’ connections to external data repositories and tools, creating a secure universal channel for two-way communication—akin to having a phone number or email for messaging. In contrast, A2A expands on this by enabling autonomous agents to discover one another, exchange information, and collaborate on tasks.
For instance, you can link your AI chatbot to the code-sharing platform GitHub via MCP, yet Google asserts that A2A could enable agents to manage job interviews, conduct calls, perform background checks—all in one streamlined process, with the agent team operating simultaneously.
However, as these protocols originate from major tech companies, concerns arise that the creators of the most successful protocol might leverage it for their own commercial gain. The MCP model necessitates oversight from a central server for connections, whereas A2A comes with its own costs, assuming that authorized agents will cooperate.
“We want to prevent an ‘Agent Internet’ from evolving into yet another ‘silo alliance,'” warns Gawee Chan, who serves as chairman of the AI Agent Protocol Group. Founded in May as part of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Standards Organization, Chan emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in developing this new layer of the Internet. “If we genuinely believe that AI is a transformative technology for human society, we need an open, neutral community to guide protocol development, ensuring that its future is shared by all companies, not just a select few,” he states.
In pursuit of this goal, Chang has initiated an open-source alternative to the Big Tech Agent Protocol with the Agent Network Protocol (ANP), which predates both MCP and A2A. ANP facilitates AI agents in discovering each other and establishing identities across the web, reminiscent of the early days of the internet, when individuals created personal websites and email accounts independent of large tech intermediaries. This autonomy allows ANP-driven models to function without a central authority, enabling direct communication between distinct AI models on the same device without needing internet verification.
Flick supports the emergence of open-source, non-commercial alternatives for Agent AI. “Essentially, our aim is to restore the fundamental principle of democratization to the Internet, which is how it all began,” she remarks. Without such alternatives, she warns that tech giants could create “walled gardens” reminiscent of the challenges seen in app stores and social media platforms. “If we rely on major corporations for this, they will execute it primarily to maximize profits,” she cautions.
Google claims that its protocols are designed for universal benefit. “We will continue to enhance [A2A] to tackle real-world challenges businesses face in deploying agent frameworks. At its core, it’s structured for the future’s demands,” says Rao Sarapaneni from Google Cloud.
“We have always believed in ensuring that advancements in AI serve everyone,” adds Theo Chu, an anthropologist. “When I developed MCP, I recognized that one key strategy to avoid fragmentation and vendor lock-in—which hampers the advancement of other technologies—was to make it open-source.”
Chu asserts that MCP is integrated across major platforms, including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google. “The success of MCP will stem from its ability to expand choices rather than restrict them,” she notes. “The collective value of the ecosystem is increased for everyone.”
The W3C Group is eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to establish technical standards industry-wide, but no specific timeline has been set. “Ultimately, our focus isn’t on the triumph or failure of any one protocol but rather on the holistic growth of the agent ecosystem.”
Knoxville, Tennessee – From exhilarating goals to devastating defeats, the FIFA World Cup captivates its audience.
Next year, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will commence, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, marking a historic event.
This tournament may feature superstars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and is the first occasion where three nations co-host in 16 cities, making it the most complex World Cup ever, as per FIFA.
“No matter if they’re in Seattle or playing in Guadalajara, I need these pitches to perform consistently. I want the same bounce and the same player-to-grass interaction,” said an expert.
“Safety is paramount and must be my top priority,” Ferguson stated during an interview at the University of Tennessee facility in Knoxville, where researchers collaborate with Michigan State to help FIFA evaluate each venue’s pitch preparations for the tournament.
“Players need to feel confident as they make quick directional changes; the ground must be stable,” he added.
Managing over 12 venues for NFL games and concerts full of monster trucks is no small feat.
The U.S. venues could face increased scrutiny after last summer’s Copa America Tournament raised concerns, notably from players like Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who referred to conditions at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium as a “disaster.”
“There’s no doubt that last year’s tournament raised the stakes,” Ferguson remarked, referencing the tournament that featured the best 16 teams from North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
“Research was in progress, but Copa highlighted more traditional hesitations regarding international football pitches. Venue schedules are packed with events transitioning from one to another continuously.”
U.S. stadiums have long been central to the debate on natural versus artificial turf in terms of safety. Next summer, all venues will adopt artificial stitch blends of natural grass, focusing on both the underlying structure and the grass itself.
In April, NBC News had exclusive access to the Knoxville facility, where researchers led by Professor John Solochan are tackling these challenges.
The team is investigating artificial stitches and layering techniques beneath the grass to improve root growth and ensure light use, contributing to consistent pitch quality indoors and outdoors.
Solochan, who specializes in turfgrass science and management, mentioned that the mix for warm-season venues includes Bermudagrass, while cool-season venues use a blend of perennial rye and Kentucky bluegrass. Indoor venues also benefit from recommended drainage layers, contributing to a firmer pitch.
“Many of these trials here were unsuccessful,” Solochan explained as he showcased a grid filled with grass plots labeled with different variables. Some experiments involved sewing fibers together to fortify the play surface, while others examined the upper layers typical in World Cup venues featuring flooring for concerts and artificial turf.
The facility includes setups that simulate indoor stadium growth conditions, along with a flex machine that tests the impact on players’ ankles by pressing soccer shoes into the grass. The initial data shows promising insights.
“You can track the speed of the ball as it moves. By analyzing the footage, we can determine its recovery speed, angle, and exit coefficients,” Solochan noted while standing next to a machine resembling one used for NFL punt returns.
Ferguson concluded, “It’s the science that underpins the game. That’s what elevates the sport.”
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
