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

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nbcnews.com

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

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

Mimi Ditchie Photography/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Republican Tax Bills Could Undermine Rooftop Solar Growth

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

However, this progress may be abruptly halted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Significant Tax Revisions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Debates Over Rooftop Solar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ivan Penn Contribution report

Source: www.nytimes.com

Swap the Baby for a Dog: A Recipe for Joy

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

Rise in Puppy Ownership

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Weight of Responsibility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Achieve Breakthroughs in Crystal Bit Manipulation Accuracy

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

Webb Observes the Sombrero Galaxy in Near-Infrared Light

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Uncovers Insights into Neanderthal Migration from the Caucasus Mountains

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Survey results published online in the journal PLOS 1.

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

EPA to Relax Mercury Restrictions on Power Plants

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nytimes.com

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

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nytimes.com

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

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nytimes.com

Ready for Launch: SpaceX Preparations

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Journey of Ancient Human Achievement in South America

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

Getty Images/iStockphoto

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

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

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

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

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

A Complex Journey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continuing the Journey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Meta’s AI Memorable Book Verbatim – Can Cost Billions

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

Vuk Valcic/Alamy Live News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Topics:

artificial intelligence/
Law

Source: www.newscientist.com

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

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Kidney disease can result in hypertension and infections

Mohammed Haneefa Nizamudeen/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

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

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Study published online in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

____

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

Source: www.sci.news

IBM Plans to Develop a Functional Quantum Supercomputer by 2029

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rendering of IBM’s proposed quantum supercomputer

IBM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Are We Aliens? A New Question for Exploration

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Journey with Dinosaurs

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

Canine Companionship

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

Building Self-Confidence

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

Cholesterol Reduction

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

Additionally

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

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

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

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

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

In this state, could two dreamers actually communicate?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hubble Captures the Breathtaking Barred Spiral Galaxy: IC 758

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope has captured a stunning new image of IC 758, a spiral galaxy located within the constellation Ursa Major.

This Hubble image depicts IC 758, a barred spiral galaxy located roughly 60 million light years from Earth in the Ursa Major constellation. The colorful image is based on observations from Hubble’s advanced cameras used for the Investigation of the Near-Infrared and Optical Parts (ACS). Two filters were utilized to capture different wavelengths, with colors assigned by applying distinct hues to each monochromatic image linked to an individual filter. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/C. Kilpatrick.

IC 758, located about 60 million light years from our planet in the constellation Ursa Major, is also known as Leda 38173 or UGC 7056.

This galaxy was discovered by the American astronomer Lewis Swift on April 17, 1888.

IC 758 is a member of the NGC 4036 Galaxy Group (also referred to as LGG 266), which encompasses more than 10 galaxies.

“In this captivating Hubble image taken in 2023, IC 758 appears serene, with its gentle blue spiral arm gracefully curving around its prominent Barred Center,” remarked a Hubble astronomer.

“However, in 1999, astronomers detected a significant event in this galaxy: the supernova SN 1999bg.”

“SN 1999BG marked the explosive conclusion of a star much larger than our sun.”

“We are still uncertain about the mass of this star before its explosion,” they added.

“Utilizing these Hubble observations, we can determine the mass of the nearby stars in SN 1999BG, aiding in the estimation of the supernova’s progenitor.”

“Hubble’s data might also provide insights into whether the precursor star of SN 1999BG has a companion.”

“A supernova signifies more than just the end of a single star; it is a formidable force that can influence its surroundings,” the astronomer noted.

“When a massive star collapses and triggers a supernova, its outer layers rebound from the diminishing core.”

“This explosion disrupts the interstellar medium of gases and dust from which new stars are born.”

“This upheaval may lead to the formation of new stars by scattering and heating adjacent gas clouds or compressing them to generate new stars.”

“The expelled outer layers also contribute to the materials needed for new star formation.”

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Discover Fossilized Intestinal Contents from Sauropod Dinosaurs

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Diamantinasaurus Mathilde, which existed approximately 94 million years ago during the mid-Cretaceous period, primarily consumed conifers, ferns, flowering plants, and utilized intestinal microorganisms for digestion almost entirely. You can learn more about it at the Winton Formation in Queensland, Australia.

Artist’s impression of Diamantinasaurus Mathilde (Judy). Image credit: Travis Tischler.

Understanding dinosaur diets is essential for grasping their paleontology and their roles in Mesozoic ecosystems.

Nevertheless, while many non-avian dinosaurs are interpreted as herbivores based on their anatomy, only a few fossils provide tangible evidence in the form of coprolites (fossilized intestinal contents).

Out of the thousands of herbivorous non-avian dinosaur specimens identified globally, only three have shown likely or atypical gut contents, all of which belong to armored theropod dinosaurs preserved in marine layers.

Other herbivorous non-avian dinosaur specimens with fossilized gut contents include hadrosaurid ornithopods found in river environments.

Thus, the intestinal contents of sauropod dinosaurs—arguably the most ecologically significant large terrestrial herbivores during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods—remain largely unexplored due to their immense size.

“Since the 19th century, paleontologists have universally classified sauropods as herbivores,” stated Dr. Stephen Polopat, deputy director of the Western Australian Centre for Organic and Isotope Geochemistry at Curtin University.

“However, the specific plants they consumed and the heights from which they fed remained largely unknown until now.”

Dr. Polopat and his team examined the fossilized intestines of a specimen of Diamantinasaurus Mathilde informally referred to as Judy.

This fossil was discovered at a site near Winton and excavated in 2017 by museum staff and citizen scientists at the Australian Dinosaurs’ Museum of Natural History.

Among Judy’s stomach contents, paleontologists identified pinus and bracts from tall coniferous trees, as well as leaves and fruits originating from small seeds and flowering plants.

Diamantinasaurus Matildae skeleton with intestinal content. Image credits: Poropat et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.053.” width=”580″ height=”470″ srcset=”https://cdn.sci.news/images/2025/06/image_13971_2-Diamantinasaurus-matildae.jpg 580w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2025/06/image_13971_2-Diamantinasaurus-matildae-300×243.jpg 300w, https://cdn.sci.news/images/2025/06/image_13971_2-Diamantinasaurus-matildae-60×49.jpg 60w” sizes=”(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px”/>

Diamantinasaurus Mathilde skeleton with intestinal contents. Image credits: Polopat et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.053.

“The findings indicated that sauropods consumed a variety of plants from different levels above the ground, contributing to their long-term survival and adaptability,” Dr. Polopat remarked.

“The stomach contents we analyzed belonged to a 12-meter-long sub-adult sauropod.”

“Our research shows that several types of sub-adult sauropods could feed at varying heights and adapt to diverse climatic, environmental, and vegetation changes during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.”

“We also verified that sauropods exhibited bulk-feeding, similar to methods utilized by herbivorous reptiles and birds today.”

“This implies they did not chew their food but swallowed it whole, allowing their digestive systems to process it completely.”

“Any meal would have lingered in their gastrointestinal tracts for as long as two weeks before being excreted.”

“Finally, the ability to observe sauropod stomach contents for the first time corroborated prior hypotheses regarding their dietary behavior.”

“Sauropods were remarkable creatures that roamed the planet for over 130 million years. Understanding their dietary patterns is crucial for comprehending their impact on the Earth’s ecosystem, particularly concerning plants and other herbivorous species.”

“Further research is necessary, and ideally, we aim to discover additional sauropod fossils containing stomach contents to ascertain whether their feeding habits evolved as they matured, especially regarding their consumption of growing plants.”

Professor Kliti Grice, founder of Curtin University’s Western Australian Centre for Organic and Isotope Geochemistry, expressed:

“Utilizing advanced organic geochemical methods, we confirmed the existence of both angiosperms and growth structures within the diet of this sauropod.”

The team’s research paper is published in the journal Current Biology.

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Stephen F. Polopat et al. 2025. The contents of the fossilized intestine reveal the feeding habits of sauropod dinosaurs. Current Biology 35 (11): 2597-2613; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.053

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Pterosaur Unearthed in Germany

Posted on June 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have identified a new genus and species of Gnathosaurine Pterosaur named Spathagnathus roeperi from a fossilized specimen discovered in the Solnhofen limestone of southern Germany.

Artistic reconstruction of Spathagnathus roeperi. Image credit: Alessio Ciaffi.

Spathagnathus roeperi lived in the Solnhofen Archipelago during the Late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago.

“The Solnhofen limestone in southern Germany is renowned as one of the most productive fossil sites ever discovered,” states Dr. Alexandra Fernandez, a museum colleague and co-researcher at the Associate Historians Museum at the Statzmurung für Paläontologie und Geologie in Bayern.

“The regions and layers found between Solnhofen and Regensburg have been explored for over 200 years and have produced exceptional specimens, offering unique insights into the paleoenvironment of the subtropical shallow seas.”

“The rich paleobiotic diversity of fauna in the Solnhofen area is attributed to its original sedimentary environment, located in a depression within a shallow marine reef on the north coast of the Thetis Sea, which has been referred to in recent literature as the Solnhofen Archipelago fossil community.”

Fragments of Spathagnathus roeperi were uncovered during a systematic excavation at the Blanc Quarry near Regensburg, Germany.

“The Blanc area represents the oldest section of the Solnhofen complex, and only one Pterosaur has ever been documented from this region,” the paleontologist noted.

Based on their phylogenetic analysis, Spathagnathus roeperi is categorized within Gnathosaurinae, a small subgroup of the Pterosaur family Ctenochasmatidae.

This newly identified flying reptile is also a sister species to the ctenochasmatid pterosaur Tacuadactylus luciae from Uruguay.

“The limestone of Solnhofen is rich in late Jurassic fossil vertebrates, and Pterosaurs are no exception,” the researchers concluded.

“Within this extensive collection, while Ctenochasmatid remains are relatively abundant, Gnathosaurines are quite rare.”

Spathagnathus roeperi marks the earliest representation of Gnathosaurine and extends the paleoenvironmental stratigraphic range of Gnathosaurinae within the broader fossil community of the Solnhofen Islands.

“Additionally, this new species contributes to the known diversity of ctenochasmatids from the late Jurassic, emphasizing the significance of this early radiation within the pterosaur lineage during this period,” the scientists concluded.

Their paper was published this month in the journal Palz.

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AE Fernandez et al. A new species and early appearance of Gnathosaurinae (Pterosauria) from the late Kimmeridgian of Brun, Germany. Palz, published online on June 6th, 2025. doi:10.1007/s12542-025-00725-0

Source: www.sci.news

Sauropod Dinosaur’s Last Meal Shows He Wasn’t Concerned With Chewing

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artistic depiction of Diamantinasaurus matildae, a 94 million-year-old sauropod dinosaur

Travis Tischler

The study of fossilized intestinal contents belonging to sauropod dinosaurs marks the first significant finding that confirms the largest terrestrial animals were high-fiber herbivores with minimal chewing behavior.

The specimen, known as Judy of the Diamantinasaurus matildae, was discovered in May 2017 in Winton, Queensland, Australia.

Shortly after Judy’s death around 94 to 100 million years ago, scavengers disturbed her remains; however, most of her body remained intact, including a calcified patch of skin. Notably, her preserved intestinal contents revealed a diverse range of plant matter.

Previously, paleontologists inferred the vegetarian diet of sauropods mainly from their skull and jaw structures, but lacked direct evidence regarding their dietary habits.

“It’s impressive to see Judy, as she may not conform to the typical characteristics we expect of other sauropods,” stated Stephen Polopat, part of the excavation and analysis team from Curtin University in Perth, Australia.

Measuring approximately 11 meters long with a 4-meter neck and a 3.3-meter tail, Judy was likely still a juvenile when she died. Her skin and intestinal samples will be displayed at the Australian-era Dinosaur Museum in Winton starting June 9.

“This gives us a clearer understanding of Judy’s overall size and form, aspects that previous Australian sauropod fossils have not illustrated,” he pointed out.

Polopat noted that her belly was “full” of plant material, emphasizing that it appeared the plants were simply ingested without much processing. “It’s not a matter of bloating in the mouth; it’s a case of cut and swallow.”

He suggested that the substantial plant matter present in Judy’s digestive tract likely facilitated the release of significant methane by the massive creature.

“Uncovering tangible evidence of extinct species like giant dinosaurs is always thrilling,” remarked John Long, who was not affiliated with the study, from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia. “If all we had was a panda bear skull, we might assume their diet is similar to other bears’ — not solely bamboo.”

“Speculation has been common regarding these titanic beings’ plant-based diets. Now we know they consumed a variety of vegetation from various levels, including both ground and tree branches,” Long concluded.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Starlink Satellites Emitting Radio Signals That May Disrupt Astronomy

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A new batch of Starlink satellites deployed via Falcon 9 Rocket

SpaceX

Astronomers have raised concerns that SpaceX’s Starlink satellites emit radio waves that may jeopardize their ability to observe and comprehend the early universe.

With thousands of Starlink satellites in orbit offering worldwide internet coverage, astronomers worry that radio emissions from these satellites could interfere with sensitive telescopes monitoring distant and faint radio waves. Although SpaceX has collaborated with astronomers to minimize this disruption by disabling transmission beams while passing over significant telescopes, these measures seem insufficient.

Steven Tingay from Curtin University, Australia, along with his team, is currently tracking signals from nearly 2,000 Starlink satellites using prototype telescopes at the Square Kilometer Array-low Observatory (SKA-low). This future network of over 100,000 interconnected telescopes is designed to investigate the early universe, but researchers have found that Starlink signals could jeopardize their goals by affecting a third of the data gathered at numerous frequencies.

Additionally, they found that the satellites transmit signals in two frequency bands protected for radio astronomy by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), which should not be utilized for Starlink transmissions. Yet, these satellite emissions are deemed unintentional. The leaked signals are 10,000 times stronger than the faint radio emissions from the neutral hydrogen clouds that existed when the first stars began to form, and which astronomers wish to study to decode the early universe.

“The signal strength from these unintended emissions can rival some of the brightest natural radio sources in the sky,” Tingay explains. “It’s akin to taking the strongest sauces in the sky, adding even more artificial ones, and causing significant interference, especially in experiments that target super sensitivity.”

Tingay suggests that the emissions likely arise from onboard electronics inadvertently transmitting signals through satellite antennas. He notes that while such leaks are not technically illegal, as ITU regulations only cover intentional emissions, the discourse about how to regulate these types of emissions is starting at the ITU, which has withheld comment.

Dylan Grigg, another researcher from Curtin University, emphasizes, “The optimal approach to mitigate these unintended emissions is for satellites to either reduce or eliminate them. From the operator’s perspective, it’s beneficial that there are existing mitigation strategies in satellites, which SpaceX has already implemented for optical astronomy.” Starlink has adjusted its satellites to minimize light reflection to reduce visual interference.

A spokesperson for SKA-LOW remarked, “These findings align with our previous studies, but additional research is necessary to fully grasp the impact on low-frequency observations.”

Grigg and Tingay have shared their findings with SpaceX, stating that the company is open to discussions on strategies to decrease emissions. SpaceX has not commented on the matter.

If SpaceX cannot devise a solution, researchers may need to introduce algorithmic strategies to filter out contaminated radio waves. However, Tingay pointed out that such methods are still in their early development phases and might require more computational resources than are currently needed for basic processing of the astronomical signals of interest.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Sally Review: An Inspiring Documentary on Sally Ride, the First Woman in Space

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sally Ride during NASA’s seventh space shuttle mission, STS-7 in 1983

NASA

Sally
Christina Costantini
Disney+ (Available from June 17th)

In 1983, Sally Ride made history as the first American woman in space, becoming the third woman overall to achieve this milestone, following Valentina Tereshkova and Svetlana Savitskaya. The new documentary, Sally, directed by Cristina Costantini, delves into her remarkable journey. It captures not just the media attention but also her personal complexities, including a 27-year partnership with science writer Tam O’Shaughnessy.

The film, debuting at the Sundance Film Festival in January, commences with an extensive montage of archival footage, featuring Ride’s television appearances, which serve as an introduction to her role as a beacon of empowerment.

You can sense the determination that fueled her journey. “It’s crucial to not do anything foolish,” she reflects during a segment, encapsulating her pursuit of excellence and the weight of expectations she faced in a male-dominated field.

Ride grew up in the thriving era of the US Space Program. NASA’s 1976 initiative to diversify its astronaut selection process paved the way for women and ethnic minorities. Out of 8,000 applicants for astronaut training, 1,500 were women, leading NASA to employ 40 aspiring astronauts.

The documentary employs a clever blend of interviews and meticulously crafted sequences that smoothly integrate with the archival material. Fellow astronauts like Kathy Sullivan, Judith Lesnick, and Anna Fisher, along with journalist Lynn Sherr and Ride’s ex-husband Steve Hawley, provide valuable insights into her character, enhanced by some archival bits.

For example, Fisher reflects on the pressures faced by female astronauts to downplay their femininity, particularly regarding attire and makeup. The film also portrays Mike Mullane, who initially appeared as a staunch sexist but later acknowledges his past mistakes in a heartfelt letter to Ride—highlighting the professional hurdles she navigated throughout her career.

In 1976, NASA’s decision to diversify its class opened the door for women and ethnic minority groups.

Costantini also tenderly explores Ride’s lifelong bond with O’Shaughnessy, who met Ride on a sunlit tennis court during their teenage years. Their private relationship, upheld for decades, reflects Ride’s reserved nature and the societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community at that time.

The soundtrack features notable tracks such as Lazy Calm by Cocteau Twins, Mr. Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, and Neil Young’s Harvest Moon, adding emotional resonance to Ride and O’Shaughnessy’s narrative.

The narrative takes a poignant turn with Ride’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2011, recounting her personal battle. After giving a speech at a conference in California, she felt a sense of unease, prompting her to seek medical advice the following day. An ultrasound revealed a tumor of golf ball size in her abdomen.

O’Shaughnessy’s testimony vividly illustrates how quickly their lives transformed. Nonetheless, they cherished their time together until Ride’s last moments. Her legacy extends beyond scientific achievements, encompassing the impact of Sally Ride Science’s nonprofit organization.

In summary, Sally presents a heartwarming and insightful tribute to a woman who defied conventions in both her career and personal life. Costantini captures not just Ride’s triumphs but also the sacrifices intrinsic to her groundbreaking journey, ensuring her story resonates with future generations.

Davide Abbatescianni is a Rome-based film critic

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Most Effective Workouts for Lowering Blood Pressure

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Should wall sits be part of your training routine?

Leopatrizi/Getty Images

Recently, my doctor advised me to monitor my blood pressure more vigilantly due to some medications I’m currently taking. While it’s still in the normal range, it’s been gradually increasing, leading me to ponder ways to manage it. Given that hypertension affects an estimated 12.8 billion adults and raises the risk of serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes if left unchecked, it’s a valid concern.

Exercise is widely endorsed as a key method for lowering blood pressure. Public health organizations often recommend moderate-intensity aerobic activities each week, like jogging and cycling, to help keep levels stable. However, recent studies indicate that this may not be the most effective approach.

A compelling study, a 2023 analysis, assessed 270 randomized controlled trials involving about 16,000 adults, focusing on various exercise regimens lasting at least two weeks. The analysis found that all types of exercise—from aerobic workouts to resistance training—significantly reduced blood pressure compared to inactive controls.

Interestingly, isometric exercises, like wall sits and hand grips where muscles are contracted in fixed positions, demonstrated a notable effect. On average, these exercises produced reductions in blood pressure comparable to those achieved with medication, showing drops of 8.24 and 4 mmHg respectively. Such reductions equate to a 22% decrease in the risk of major cardiovascular events over a few years. In contrast, aerobic exercise had nearly half that potency.

This difference likely stems from how isometric exercises impact blood flow. For instance, during wall squats or planks, one holds muscles in a contracted state for about 1-2 minutes, which temporarily restricts blood flow. Once the muscles relax, blood rushes back in, leading to lower blood pressure for several hours, a beneficial effect that can be sustained with repeated sessions.

What makes isometric training particularly enticing is its ease of integration into daily routines. A 2023 study revealed that just 12 minutes of these exercises, performed three times a week, were sufficient to substantially lower blood pressure over a 12-week period.

That said, I don’t intend to suggest neglecting other training forms. Aerobic and resistance exercises are still vital for cardiovascular health and muscle development. However, if your blood pressure is a concern, incorporating isometric exercises into your workout could be beneficial. I’m choosing to add wall squats to my leg day routine.

Grace Wade is a health reporter for New Scientist based in the U.S.

For more insights, please visit newscientist.com/maker

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Forest Crisis Sparks Europe to Reassess Net Zero Goals

Posted on June 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Extreme weather and bark beetles have devastated many trees in the Harz Mountains, Germany

Rob Cousins/Alamy

The abrupt and significant drop in carbon absorption by European forests has ignited concern among scientists, who fear that a marked decline could hinder efforts to combat global warming.

For many years, European forests, which span around 40% of the continent’s land area, have played a dual role as sources of timber and as carbon sinks. However, increasing extreme weather events are pushing these forests beyond their limits, swiftly altering the landscape.

“Many [European Union] countries will struggle to meet their [land-use climate] targets due to this sink reduction,” states Glen Peters from the Cicero International Climate Research Centre in Norway.

Earlier this year, Finnish officials revealed that their forest ecosystem had shifted from functioning as a net carbon sink to becoming a net carbon source. This development follows Germany’s declaration that its forests became the first in the country’s history to record a net increase in carbon emissions. Additionally, the Czech Republic has reported its forests as net carbon sources since 2018.

While these instances are particularly severe, carbon absorption rates are dwindling rapidly in many other nations. For instance, in France, the carbon uptake by forests has nearly halved in just 14 years, with a study released last month documenting a decrease from a peak of 37.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually in 2008 to 74.1 million tonnes in 2022. Concurrently, Norway’s carbon absorption has plummeted from 32 million tonnes in 2010 to 18 million tonnes in 2022.

“The trend had remained relatively stable from 2013 to 2015,” comments Korosuo at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Belgium. “This is a widespread issue, not confined to just one or two countries. Similar patterns are observable across nearly all forested nations.”

Many forests in Europe are privately owned and commercially managed. Some of the decrease in carbon sinks has been linked to increased logging, particularly following the sanctions on Russian timber imports due to the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. For example, Finland has seen strong demand for wood, leading to heightened harvesting levels, notes Raisa from the Natural Resources Institute of Finland.

However, scientists also attribute the rapid decline in carbon storage to the escalating impacts of climate change.

Europe has faced several droughts in recent years, with 2018 and 2022 marking the harshest conditions. Wouter Peters at Wageningen University in the Netherlands highlights that his research indicates the 2022 drought caused a significant reduction in carbon intake by European forests during summer months. “We’re observing immediate effects; the trees are under stress,” he comments.

Researchers had expected that as global temperatures rise, European forests would diminish in health, yet the extent of the recent decline is still astonishing. Wouter Peters explains, “The impact seems to be more severe than anticipated.”

This downturn could be a result of successive droughts occurring within a few years, exacerbated by other extreme weather events such as storms that disturb forests. “We see not just one drought in 2018, but additional ones in 2021 and 2022,” Wouter Peters notes. “Our models have not effectively accounted for this concentration of drought events over such a short time frame.”

Moreover, rising temperatures are leading to more frequent and widespread infestations of bark beetles across Europe, which are severely damaging spruce forests. The Czech Republic, in particular, has faced seven major bark beetle outbreaks from 2018 to 2021.

A declining carbon sink poses a threat to the EU’s climate objectives, which depend on forests to absorb the bulk of emissions generated by other sectors. The EU is even aiming to enhance this carbon sink to support its climate ambitions, targeting a removal of 310 million tonnes of CO2 equivalents annually by 2030, a significant increase from the approximately 230 million tonnes currently removed.

However, a recent analysis published in April warns that European carbon sinks are projected to decrease by around 29% below the 2030 target, with researchers cautioning that the capability of European forests to absorb carbon will “gradually deteriorate.”

Preventative measures can help mitigate this decline, such as reducing harvesting rates and prohibiting clear-cutting in plantations, which can maintain carbon stocks. Additionally, increasing species diversity and retaining some deadwood can enhance forest health and resilience against pests and droughts.

Nonetheless, Wouter Peters argues that policymakers are overestimating the carbon absorption potential of forests in warmer climates. “There has likely been an over-reliance on forests, particularly in the context of greenhouse gas emissions,” he contends. He emphasizes that other sectors must rapidly reduce emissions to meet European climate goals. “This implies that we need intensified efforts in other areas.”

Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are rising at unprecedented rates, despite an overall stagnation in greenhouse gas emissions. Scientists attribute this acceleration to slower carbon absorption rates in forests, wetlands, and peatlands globally, compounded by deforestation and increased emissions from wildfires and droughts that weaken global land sinks.

This issue is most pronounced in mid-latitude regions. Alongside Europe, significant declines in carbon sink capacity have also been recorded in boreal forests of Alaska and Canada. Tropical forests are facing challenges from both deforestation and diminished carbon storage capacity, primarily due to wildfires.

This poses a serious challenge to global efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. “In a broad global context, the entire concept of net zero hinges on the functionality of forests and oceans. If these systems cease to effectively sequester carbon, it will lead to increased atmospheric carbon levels and accelerated global warming.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Experts Warn: Hurricanes Are Intensifying – Time for a New Category

Posted on June 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As the Atlantic hurricane season kicks off, millions are anxiously monitoring forecasts and looking for telltale signs of impending storms.

This year promises to be particularly severe. Ocean temperatures remain exceptionally high, and conditions in the Pacific are set to amplify Atlantic storm activity.

However, beyond the immediate forecasts, a more profound and surprising phenomenon is unfolding with tropical cyclones globally.

With rising global temperatures driven by human actions, climate change is reshaping our understanding of storms that batter coastlines. These storms are becoming wetter, more intense, and sometimes extraordinarily powerful. The current classification system for these storms is quickly becoming obsolete.

Indeed, it has been noted that Category 5 hurricanes (the most intense classification on the Saffir-Simpson scale) may no longer represent the upper limit. Future storms could necessitate an entirely new category.

“This is a discussion that has occurred several times, and I believe it is a valid argument,” says Dr. Tom Matthews, a senior lecturer in environmental geography at King’s College London. BBC Science Focus.

“We’ve expanded to Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale, so using the term Category 5 is misleading, and we do need a new category.”

How are hurricanes classified?

Hurricanes are currently classified using the Saffir-Simpson scale, which is based on sustained wind speeds.

Category 1 – 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h). Very dangerous winds cause minor damage.
Category 2 – 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h). Very dangerous winds cause significant damage.
Category 3 – 111-129 mph (178-208 km/h). Catastrophic damage occurs.
Category 4 – 130-156 mph (209-251 km/h). Catastrophic damage occurs.
Category 5 – Over 157 mph (over 252 km/h). Catastrophic damage occurs.

However, climate change is pushing storms far beyond these established limits. Hurricane Patricia recorded wind speeds of 215 mph in 2015. Hurricane Dorian in 2019 hovered over the Bahamas with wind speeds of 185 mph.

Additionally, Typhoon Haiyan, highlighted by Matthews as a prime example of these next-generation storms, struck the Philippines in 2013 with sustained winds of 195 mph (314 km/h), with gusts reaching up to 220 mph (354 km/h).

These storms are unlike any we have experienced before.

Devastation following Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. – Getty

How is climate change impacting hurricanes?

One might expect that as the planet warms, the number of hurricanes will increase. However, the situation is more nuanced.

“The upper atmosphere warms faster than the lower atmosphere, creating stability that resists the vertical movements essential for hurricane formation,” explains Matthews.

Hurricanes depend on rising air, but a heated atmosphere can suppress this necessary upward movement, making it more difficult to initiate a hurricane.

“It’s akin to trying to lift a hot air balloon when the surrounding atmosphere is warmer than the burner inside the balloon,” Matthews elaborates.

“Another apt analogy is that the atmospheric lid above convection—the vertical movement needed to kickstart a hurricane—is becoming stronger, impeding hurricane development.”

This translates to reduced chances of hurricane formation. Nonetheless, when they do occur, they tend to exhibit explosive intensity.

Mathews provides another perspective: “A hurricane serves as a mechanism for redistributing heat from the ocean to the atmosphere. More heat is needed to initiate a hurricane.”

“This could mean they are less frequent, but when they do occur, they pack a significant punch.”

Moreover, rising sea levels mean that even storms of similar intensity can push further inland, causing greater damage. “Unfortunately, this is an unavoidable reality,” Matthews concludes.

Why is a new category necessary?

The classification of tropical cyclones is not merely an organizational tool; it is crucial for understanding the evolving nature of storms. With storm intensity rising, the current five-level classification may be insufficient for effective assessment.

Even within Category 5, there exists a vast range that can mislead and obstruct preparedness efforts.

“What may seem like a minor change, especially in wind speeds, can correspond to significant differences in damage.”

This dynamic is amplified because the force of wind impacting an object relates to the square of its speed, and the resulting power grows proportionally. In simple terms, what may seem like a minor acceleration can lead to catastrophic consequences on the ground.

“What may appear to be a slight change can cause substantial damage. This is especially problematic when structures are designed to withstand specific wind speeds but are exceeded.”

This is a serious warning. With ongoing climate change, the strongest storms are intensifying, and our longstanding classification system may no longer suffice.

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About our experts

Tom Matthews serves as a senior lecturer in environmental geography at King’s College London, UK. His research delves into extreme meteorological environments and events. He has worked extensively in mountainous regions, such as the Himalayas, where he has been instrumental in setting up state-of-the-art weather stations on Mount Everest. His studies on severe extratropical cyclones and combined events have furthered the understanding of extreme humid thermal events and their prospective changes due to climate warming.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

This Unusual Miniature Frog Defies Nature’s Greatest Laws

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The world is full of fascinating paradoxes. For instance, does this article even exist before you’ve read it? If I traveled back in time and eliminated my grandfather, would I still be here writing this? And why is it that two socks can fit into the washing machine, yet only one emerges? Perhaps one of the grandest paradoxes is how a frog can shrink as it matures.

Meet the paradoxical frog (Pseudis Paradoxa). These frogs lay their fertile eggs in South America’s lakes and lagoons, where they hatch into tadpoles that begin to consume the eggs.

The voracious larvae feed mainly on algae and begin to grow quite rapidly. Initially, they develop like ordinary tadpoles, but…

If conditions are ideal, these tadpoles can grow remarkably large. Bigger than blueberries, larger than strawberries—think of it as if “satsuma stuffed into ankle socks.” That gives you a sense of their size, and perhaps you’ve even located your missing socks.

The tadpoles of the paradox frog, with their plump, rounded bodies and long muscular tails, can reach lengths of up to 22cm (8.6 inches). Rearrange the movie Jaws, and you’ll need a bigger jam jar!

This size is about three times more significant than the adult frogs they eventually become, with much of the necessary development already complete.

By the time they morph from tadpoles to frogs, males possess well-formed testes and can produce sperm, while females create mature eggs.

This is distinct from typical frog tadpoles, which take longer to reach sexual maturity during the male frog phase of their life cycle.

Paradoxical frog tadpoles can grow up to 22cm (8.6 inches). – Photo credit: Aramie

So, how does a giant tadpole transform into such a small frog? It’s remarkably simple! At least half of the paradoxical frog tadpoles are made up of tails. Once they lose their tails, they undergo a normal transformation into relatively small adults, measuring about 7cm (approximately 2.5 inches).

This “contraction” of the amphibians explains the phenomenon often referred to as frog shrinkage.

The paradox appears resolved. Yet, as one riddle is solved, another emerges: Why do the tadpoles expend such energy in growing so large in the first place?

One possible explanation lies in the timing and location of their birth. Paradoxical frogs time their spawning for the rainy season.

In Trinidad, this occurs around May.

Some eggs are laid in permanent bodies of water, while others are deposited in fleeting ponds that eventually dry up. Those born in small, temporary locations with limited food and aquatic predators do not grow much. In contrast, tadpoles born in larger, more stable ponds with abundant food and fewer predators tend to thrive.

In these circumstances, growing larger can enhance survival since larger tadpoles are less likely to be consumed by predatory fish and other animals.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

IXPE Measures X-Ray Polarization from Magnetic Explosions

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A magnetor is a type of neutron star that boasts an extraordinarily strong magnetic field, approximately one times stronger than Earth’s magnetic field. These colossal magnetic fields are believed to be generated when rapidly rotating neutron stars are birthed from the collapse of a giant star’s core. Magnetars emit brilliant X-rays and display erratic patterns of activity, with bursts and flares releasing millions of times more energy than the Sun emits in just one second. Polarization measurements offer insights into magnetic fields and surface characteristics. This was the focus of astronomers using the NASA Imaging X-ray Polarization Explorer (IXPE) to study 1E 1841-045, a magnetor located within Supernova Remnant (SNR) KES 73, situated nearly 28,000 light years from Earth. The findings are published in the Astrophysics Journal Letter.

Impressions of Magneter artists. Image credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center/S. Wesinger.

Magnetors represent a category of young neutron stars. They are the remnants of giant stars that collapsed in on themselves at the end of their life cycles, resembling the mass of the Sun but compressed into a city-sized volume.

Neutron stars exemplify some of the most extreme physical conditions in the observable universe, offering a unique chance to investigate states that cannot be replicated in terrestrial laboratories.

The 1E 1841-045 magnetor was observed in an explosive state on August 21, 2024, by NASA’s Swift, Fermi, and other advanced telescopes.

The IXPE team has permitted several requests to pause scheduled observations of the telescope multiple times each year, redirecting focus to unique and unexpected celestial phenomena.

When 1E 1841-045 transitioned into this bright active phase, scientists chose to direct IXPE to capture the first polarization measurements of the magnetor’s flare.

Magnetors possess magnetic fields thousands of times stronger than most neutron stars, hosting the most powerful magnetic fields among known cosmic entities.

These extreme magnetic field fluctuations can lead to the emission of X-ray energies up to 1,000 times greater than usual for several weeks.

This heightened state is referred to as explosive activity, though the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

IXPE’s X-ray polarization measurements may help unveil the mysteries behind these phenomena.

Polarized light carries information about the direction and orientation of emitted X-ray waves. A higher degree of polarization indicates that the X-ray waves are moving in harmony, akin to a tightly choreographed dance.

Studying the polarization characteristics of magnetors provides clues regarding the energy processes associated with observed photons and the direction and configuration of the magnetor’s magnetic field.

This diagram illustrates the IXPE measurements of X-ray polarized light emitted by 1E 1841-045. Image credit: Michela Rigoselli / Italian National Institute of Astrophysics.

IXPE results, supported by NASA’s Nustar and other telescope observations, indicate that X-ray emissions from 1E 1841-045 exhibit increased polarization at higher energy levels while maintaining a consistent emission direction.

This significant contribution to the high degree of polarization is attributed to the hard X-ray tail of 1E 1841-045, a highly energetic component of the magnetosphere responsible for the highest photon energies detected by IXPE.

Hard X-rays refer to X-rays characterized by shorter wavelengths and greater energy than soft X-rays.

While prevalent in magnetars, the processes that facilitate the generation of these high-energy X-ray photons remain largely enigmatic.

Despite several proposed theories explaining this emission, the high polarization associated with these hard X-rays currently offers additional clues to their origins.

“This unique observation enhances existing models that aim to explain magnetic hard X-ray emissions by elucidating the extensive synchronization seen among these hard X-ray photons,” remarked a student from George Washington University. First paper.

“This effectively demonstrates the power of polarization measurements in refining our understanding of the physics within a magnetar’s extreme environment.”

“It would be fascinating to observe 1E 1841-045 as it returns to its stable baseline state and to track the evolution of polarization,” added Dr. Michela Rigoselli, an astronomer at the National Institute of Astrophysics in Italy. Second paper.

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Rachel Stewart et al. 2025. X-ray polarization of Magnetor 1E 1841-045. apjl 985, L35; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/adbffa

Michela Rigoselli et al. 2025. IXPE detection of highly polarized X-rays from Magnetor 1E 1841-045. apjl 985, L34; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/adbffb

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Unveil Europe’s Most Complete Stegosaurus Skull

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists discovered dinosaur skull fragments within the Upper Jurassic Villard Alzobispo layer in Teruel, Spain, and confidently identified them as belonging to the species Centegosaurus dacentrurus armatus.

Skull of dacentrurus armatus from the Villard Alzobispo Formation in Teruel, Spain. Image credit: S. Sánchez-Fenollosa & A. Cobos, doi: 10.3897/vz.75.e146618.

The name Stegosauria was first introduced in 1877, with the initial reference to dacentrurus armatus occurring two years later.

Stegosauria constitutes a small clade of theropod dinosaurs, featuring iconic and recognizable representatives such as the genus Stegosaurus.

These dinosaurs were characterized by two rows of bony skin (plates and spines), extending principally from the neck to the tail’s edge.

Stegosaur fossils date from the Middle Jurassic through the Late Cretaceous, and they are generally represented by a limited number of partial skeletons worldwide.

Skull remains of stegosaurs are often fragmentary and infrequently found in the fossil record.

Nearly half of today’s scientifically recognized stegosaur species lack preserved skull material.

A recent study by Fundación Dinópolis paleontologists Sergio Sánchez Fenollosa and Alberto Cobos focused on the skull of dacentrurus armatus, a type of stegosaurus that roamed Europe approximately 150 million years ago.

Life reconstruction of dacentrurus armatus. Image credit: Sci.News.

“A comprehensive study of this extraordinary fossil has revealed anatomical features previously unknown in dacentrurus armatus, a typical European stegosaurus,” noted Dr. Sanchez Fenollosa.

“Dinosaur skulls are seldom preserved due to their extreme fragility.”

“This discovery is crucial for understanding the evolution of stegosaur skulls.”

Additionally, alongside detailed anatomical studies, we proposed a new hypothesis that redefines evolutionary relationships among stegosaurs worldwide.”

“This research has established a new grouping termed Neostegosauria.”

According to the team, Neostegosauria includes moderate to large stegosaur species that existed in Africa and Europe during the Middle to Late Jurassic, as well as Late Jurassic and Late Cretaceous Asia.

“This dual outcome represents both a remarkable fossil study and the proposal of new evolutionary theories, positioning our work as a key reference in stegosaur research,” remarked Dr. Cobos.

“The fossil site at Riodeva remains a subject of ongoing research and holds many related fossils, including additional postcranial elements from the same adult specimen, particularly rare combinations of this dinosaur type.”

“These findings are significantly enhancing the paleontological heritage of Teruel, making it a central region for understanding life’s evolution on Earth.”

The team’s research paper was published in the journal Vertebrate Zoology on May 26, 2025.

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S. Sánchez-Fenollosa & A. Cobos. 2025. New insights into the phylogeny and skull evolution of the stegosaur dinosaur: an extraordinary skull from the late Jurassic (Dinosaur: Stegosauria) in Europe. Vertebrate Zoology 75:165-189; doi:10.3897/vz.75.e146618

Source: www.sci.news

These Cosmic Beasts Are Sparkling the Largest Explosion Since the Big Bang

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The immense void of space implies that only one star can occupy a region at a time.

This phenomenon occurs because the mass of these stars is 80 billion times lighter than Earth, with three colossal entities devouring stars ten times larger than our Sun.

A recent study from the University of Hawaii reveals that astronomers, while analyzing data from NASA and the European Space Agency, have identified three ultra-massive black holes. A gigantic one consumes stars far exceeding the sizes of those that orbit the center of our solar system.

The explosions reported by these researchers happened when the black holes tore apart and engulfed the remnants of these stars, yielding the largest events since the Big Bang that shaped our universe.

“What excites me about this research is that we are extending the boundaries of our understanding of the most energetic environments in the universe,” stated Anna Payne, a staff scientist at the Institute of Space Telescope Science and co-author, in a NASA article.

Black holes are cosmic entities that remain unseen by the naked eye, possessing a gravitational force so intense it can capture everything, including light itself. Supermassive black holes, the largest varieties, reside at the centers of galaxies, gradually consuming planets and other materials.

When a star falls under the influence of a supermassive black hole, new research published this week suggests it could end in a dramatic explosion categorized as an “extreme nuclear transient.”Journals advance in science

“These occurrences are unique as they provide the only means for us to illuminate a massive black hole that would typically remain dormant,” noted University of Hawaii graduate student Jason Hinkle in a related article from NASA.NASA article.

Hinkle serves as the lead author of a new study that documents two such events for the first time in the last decade.

Two of the three supermassive black holes were observed by ESA missions in 2016 and 2018, marking the first time they were documented. The third, cataloged as ZTF20Abrbeie, was discovered by the Caltech Observatory in California in 2020 and officially recorded in 2023.

The explosion’s magnitude rivals only that of the Big Bang, which initiated the universe.

Differing from typical stellar explosions, the variations in X-rays, optical, and ultraviolet emissions in these events indicated a “star-consuming black hole.”

NASA explains that black holes actually become brighter during these cosmic occurrences, with their luminosity lasting several months.

This brightness offers scientists a new methodology to uncover additional black holes in the far reaches of the early universe. As astronomers peer into the cosmos, the farther they look, the more ancient light they detect. For instance, light from the Sun takes eight minutes to reach Earth.

“You can use these three objects as a template for what to search for in the future,” Payne remarked.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

I’m Exhausted from Living in Tornado Alley

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Residents of Shipan City are increasingly worried about the potential for severe weather, as the community is set to lose 14 staff members, leaving it vulnerable to such events.

Wolf, a retired meteorologist from Davenport, expressed his concerns. He mentioned that up to 12 staff members were typically involved in managing severe weather incidents simultaneously. The cutbacks have resulted in a significantly reduced workforce for critical situations, especially when other forecast offices are also dealing with their own weather emergencies.

“With only 14 staff members, needing 10 leaves you in a tough spot,” Wolf remarked. “If we face a major weather event in the coming weeks, I’m confident they will still perform admirably, as they have in the past.”

Brian Payne, emergency manager for Scott County, Iowa, stated he has been receiving consistent service and hasn’t observed any issues.

“We depend on them heavily,” Payne noted. “They seem exhausted.”

A former National Weather Service staff member, familiar with the situation in Davenport, indicated that the team’s professionalism and commitment are crucial in preventing more serious outcomes.

“They all strive to accomplish their tasks despite time constraints and unpredictable conditions,” said the former employee, who preferred to remain anonymous due to fears of repercussions. “I genuinely feel for the team; they carry a heavy burden.”

Sorensen noted that employees are apprehensive about retaliation and hesitant to express their concerns.

“These are my friends and colleagues. I studied alongside a meteorologist 25 years ago,” Sorensen said, referencing Friedline. “They worry that their comments could have political consequences, and that someone might respond like a bully from high school, unjustly targeting them.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Exploring Inequality: How Mathematical “Equality” Literature Can Transform the Real World

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Numbers enable us to focus in detail on one aspect of a situation, but we can overlook complexities

Mika Baumeister/Unsplash

inequality
Eugenia Chen (Profile book (UK, for sale) Basic Books (We, September 2nd)

Are things equal or aren’t they? At least mathematically, that’s a question worth considering. Eugenia Chen argues in her new book, Inequality: With mathematics and tactics when things are done. In maths, as in life, some aspects have more weight than others.

Consider this: the equation 180 = 180 reveals nothing, yet x + y + z = 180°, where x, y, and z are the angles of a triangle, conveys a deeper insight. This statement holds true only under specific circumstances—yes, but not on the surface of a sphere.

Chen aims to investigate how mathematics identifies things as “equal.” Her methodology blends playfulness with the gravity of abstract concepts, linking them to diverse topics such as knitting and creating Battenberg cakes. She isn’t shy about tackling significant political and rights-related questions surrounding equality.

When simplifying through numbers, Chen humorously remarks that their dullness helps clarify potentially overwhelming complexities into a manageable figure. Numbers can be potent tools, focusing on a specific element of a situation.

However, overlooking this simplification can lead to misunderstandings. For instance, assuming two individuals with identical IQ scores are equally intelligent is misleading. As Chen remarks, “It’s alright to disregard the details, but you must remember that you have.”

Fortunately, mathematics encompasses more than mere numbers. Chen delves into the concepts of “local” and “global,” engaging in extensive discussions. Essentially, she explores surfaces formed by stitching together smaller flat areas.

By promoting “diverse thinking,” she proposes a valuable lens through which to view reality. In mathematics, debating whether a sphere and a torus are “the same” is futile. They can be understood as locally distinct but globally different. Similarly, in political discourse, it’s crucial to recognize when one faction utilizes localized arguments (“individual women benefit from the right to choose regarding abortion”) while the opposing side employs global ones (“all abortions constitute murder,” etc.).

Chen ventures deeply into abstract discussions regarding identity within categorical theory, guiding the reader through theoretical territories. Some of the most remarkable creations in art, literature, and music are indeed complex, yet we appreciate them without fully grasping the intricacies of chiaroscuro, counterpoints, or other sophisticated elements. Chen devotes herself to exploring the formal definitions of categories. Like art, we all appreciate certain abstract notions, but discovering their depth is worthwhile.

“If you believe that mathematics is solely about equations, seeing them as rigid black-and-white facts, then you likely perceive mathematics as solely stringent and binary,” states Chen. This book serves as a compelling counterargument to that misapprehension. Delving into the nuances of “equality” in mathematics will enrich your understanding of this field’s complexity and illuminate how the idea of equality is applied (and misapplied).

Sarah Hart is Professor Emelita and Provost of Geometry at the University of Gresham, UK. She authored Once Upon Prime.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Top New Sci-Fi Releases for June 2025: Exploring Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Alternate 1980s

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

June’s new science fiction features Megan E. O’Keefe’s Space Opera

Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo

Are you a fan of dystopian worlds plagued by relentless viruses and advanced technology? If so, June has a lot in store for you. Expect narratives that range from infections inciting greed to nerve chips that eliminate sleep. Inga Simpson delivers a tale of environmental apocalypse in Thin, while EK Sathue offers a feminist body horror twist in a story reminiscent of American Psycho meets Material. Also on the menu is the intriguing new space opera by Megan E. O’Keefe titled Atmosphere.

Those crafty scientists are up to something again, developing a nerve chip designed to eliminate sleep. This chip soon becomes ubiquitous, leaving humanity in a state of sleep deprivation. Survivors in the Tower of London work tirelessly to find a cure… it’s a mix of eerie entertainment and genuine fright.

We’ve encountered plenty of apocalyptic viruses before. In this installment, a deadly virus leaves infected individuals “wild with desire.” Sophie, our protagonist, is a “good Catholic girl” who will stop at nothing to find her family. Originally published in the US, this novel hits the UK shelves this month.

Although not strictly science fiction, the upcoming book offers a unique perspective against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program. Taylor Jenkins Reid, known for Daisy Jones & Six and Malibu Rising, introduces us to Professor Joe Goodwin, who begins training astronauts at the Johnson Space Center in Houston in 1980. Everything shifts with Mission STS-LR9 in December 1984…

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Atmosphere is set during the 1980s space shuttle program

NG Images/Alamy

This standalone space opera features Faven Sythe on a quest to find her missing mentor. Sythe, a “Crystbon,” charts stellar routes across the galaxy. The only individual who stands a chance of aiding her is the enigmatic pirate Amandine, and together they uncover a conspiracy that spans the galaxy.

Finn lives in a secluded area with his mother, Dianera, always ready to escape. The environment beyond their sanctuary is deteriorating, and as extinction looms, Finn must join forces with an unlikely ally—an evolved human—on a mission to restore the balance of nature.

As a virus decimates half of China’s population and heads towards the UK, the government resorts to distributing “pills of dignity.” Meanwhile, Hart Ikeda discovers a method to mutate the virus, reprogramming it to foster compassion in its hosts. Will this be the salvation needed?

Pitched as American Psycho meets Material, this body horror narrative follows a young woman who starts working for the upscale skincare brand Hebe. As Sofia quickly learns, all is not as it seems; the Youth Juice moisturizer she tests could come with costs she never anticipated. How far is she willing to go to preserve her youth?

This compelling tale unfolds as scientists, facing humanity’s potential extinction, utilize technology intended for interstellar exploration to send someone 10,000 years into Earth’s future. Microbiologist Nicholas Hindman finds himself navigating an uncharted wilderness, searching for the remnants of humanity amidst a devastating pandemic in 2068.

Enca and Mathilde bond as art school friends, but when Mathilde’s rise to fame threatens their relationship, Enca becomes desperate to maintain their connection. Will the cutting-edge technology known as scaffolding—allowing Enca to live within Mathilde’s mind—forge a stronger bond, or will it complicate their lives?

Beginning in present-day India and moving into a near future, this story centers around a populist movement that rejuvenates the ancient Saraswati River. Though it’s labeled “not exactly science fiction,” it contains “strong speculative elements deeply rooted in contemporary politics.” Compared to the works of David Mitchell, Zadie Smith, and Eleanor Catton, it’s certainly worth exploring.

Set in a near-future London where technology intertwines with everything from physical health to political dynamics, journalist Pers Budmouth seeks to uncover the truth behind the mysterious disappearance of young black children. Instead, her assignment takes her to cover protests in Benin, where tourists participate in sacred rituals. When she partakes in the Spirit Vine—an ingredient often found in ayahuasca—she uncovers a destiny that could change everything. This story is a must-read for fans of NK Jemisin’s Supacell.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Is it possible to create a gravity-powered space-time computer?

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of a giant object distorting spacetime

koto_feja/getty images

SEI 254380947 — Illustration of a giant object distorting spacetime

koto_feja/getty images

Exploring the mathematical nature of space-time and physical reality could pave the way for innovative computer-like systems that utilize gravity for data processing.

Is space-time an immutable expanse, or is it subject to distortion that influences the signals traversing it? While Albert Einstein’s special theory of relativity suggests stability, his general theory signifies otherwise. In this context, massive objects can create indentations and curves in space-time, altering signal trajectories, akin to a ball impacting a taut surface.

Eleftherios-Ermis Tselentis from the Brussels Institute of Technology and Ämin Baumeler of the University of Lugano in Switzerland have devised a mathematical framework to ascertain the constancy of space-time in specific regions.

They investigated a situation in which three individuals send messages amongst themselves. They posed the question: Could Alice, Bob, and Charlie discern if space-time distortions affected their information exchange? Could Alice receive a message from Bob if the spatial-temporal region through which the signal travels is altered? This might allow her to invert the causal dynamics between Charlie and Bob, thus causing Bob to influence the space-time around her prior to obtaining a reply from Charlie.

Tselentis and Baumeler formulated equations to assist Alice, Bob, and Charlie in recognizing the feasibility of these scenarios. After multiple rounds of communication, they compiled data on received messages, which was subsequently integrated into their equations.

The outcomes indicate whether their exchange occurred in an environment where space-time manipulation was viable. This mathematical construct is general enough that the participants do not need awareness of their locations or non-standard messaging tools.

Baumeler noted that while the general theory of relativity has long been a cornerstone of our understanding of physical existence, a rigorous mathematical connection between space-time fluctuations and information flow had been absent. Grasping the dynamics of information flow is foundational for computer science.

In this regard, he believes their research could initiate a nascent exploration of using gravitational effects to manipulate and navigate space-time for computational purposes.

“If one can harness the enigmas of physics for computation, why not explore the general theory of relativity?” stated Pablo Arrighi from Paris Clay University. He pointed out that while other researchers posit extreme concepts such as placing computers in black holes, space-time distortions at black hole edges slow down time, allowing for potentially extensive calculations to yield results.

Nonetheless, the new theory uniquely sidesteps a focus on specialized devices or specific aspects of space-time, allowing for a broader range of applications, according to Arrighi. However, creating “gravity-based information” systems does not appear feasible at present.

Tselentis and Baumeler also acknowledged that substantial additional research is necessary before devising a functional device. Their current calculations depend on fantastical scenarios, such as moving an entire planet to interject between Charlie and Bob. Practical applications will necessitate a deeper comprehension of gravity’s effects at much smaller scales.

Gravity is notoriously weak when it comes to smaller objects, thus one doesn’t typically perceive the impact of space-time distortions with everyday items like a pencil on a desk. Yet, certain instruments, such as clocks using ultracold atoms, can detect these phenomena. Future advancements in such devices, alongside theoretical progress linking gravity and information, could enable more applicable outcomes from Tselentis and Baumeler’s mathematical research.

Their work posits that diverse frameworks, like information theory and special relativity, can shed light on how causal relationships are perceived. V. Virasini from the University of Grenoble Alpes in France notes that the new research touches on concepts such as event order reversal, prompting inquiries into fundamental notions like events (e.g., Alice pressing a button to dispatch a message).

She suggests that the next step involves fully integrating this approach, facilitating further exploration into the essence of space-time.

“Do astrophysical events, like black hole mergers that generate gravitational waves impacting Earth, carry a meaningful signature of the correlations examined in this study?” she inquires.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

We Might Have Found the First Star Made of Dark Matter

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mysterious stars might be fueled by dark matter

Artsiom P/Shutterstock

SEI 254497072 — Mysterious stars might be fueled by dark matter

Artsiom P/Shutterstock

Astronomers have uncovered compelling evidence for the existence of Dark Stars—massive stars in the early universe that might be partly energized by dark matter. If confirmed, these hypothetical stars could shed light on the enigmatic large black holes observed in the early universe, although skepticism remains among some astronomers regarding these findings.

The concept of Dark Stars was proposed in 2007 by Katherine Freese and her colleagues at the University of Texas at Austin. They theorized that immense clouds of hydrogen and helium in the early universe could interact with dark matter, forming gigantic and stable stars. Absent dark matter, such vast gas clouds would collapse into black holes, but energy from decaying dark matter can counter this collapse, resulting in star-like entities even without the nuclear fusion typical of ordinary stars.

Until recently, evidence for these exotic objects from the early universe was scant, but in 2022, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) began discovering numerous bright, distant celestial objects. Freese and her team identified three galaxies that exhibited several characteristics predicted by Dark Star models, such as round shapes and similar luminosity, though detailed spectral data was absent to confirm their hypothesis definitively.

Now, with new spectral observations from JWST, Freese’s team believes they can match theoretical predictions of what Dark Stars should resemble, including two additional candidates. One of these potential candidates shows intriguing hints of specific helium characteristics—missing electrons—which, if validated, could serve as a distinct hallmark of a Dark Star. Freese remarks, “If it’s real, I don’t know how else to explain it using Dark Stars.” She cautions, however, that evidence is still limited.

Meanwhile, Daniel Whalen from the University of Portsmouth in the UK suggests that an alternative theory of ultra-massive protostars, which do not involve dark matter, might also explain the JWST findings. “They overlook considerable literature concerning the formation of ultra-massive protostars, some of which can produce signatures remarkably similar to the ones they present,” claims Whalen.

Freese, however, strongly disagrees, asserting that burning dark matter is the only feasible method for creating such massive stars. “There’s no alternative route,” she insists.

A complicating factor arises from separate observations of the objects studied by Freese’s team using the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile, which indicated the presence of oxygen. This element is not associated with Dark Stars, suggesting these candidates might be hybrid stars. On the other hand, Whalen and his team interpret the presence of oxygen as a strong indicator that these objects cannot be Dark Stars, attributing their formation to conventional stars that exploded as supernovae.

Should Freese and her collaborators confirm that these objects are indeed Dark Stars, it could address significant challenges in understanding the universe. Current models posit that such black holes can only originate from extremely massive matter, which raises questions about their formation in the early universe.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

US Halts Support for COVID-19 Vaccines for Children—Are Other Vaccines Next?

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy JR

Tasos Katopodis/Getty

One of the leading vaccine specialists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos, resigned on June 4th, just a week after Robert F. Kennedy JR announced that the Covid-19 vaccine would no longer be advised for most children and pregnancies.

This declaration prompted several days of uncertainty regarding the availability of the Covid-19 vaccine in the U.S. Although there has not been a significant shift in access, parents may face new challenges when trying to vaccinate their children. Nonetheless, Kennedy’s statement reflects a concerning departure from established public health practices.

“My career in public health and vaccinology began with a deep-seated desire to assist the most vulnerable members of our population. This is not something I can continue in this role,” Reuters reported.

Panagiotakopoulos was part of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) since 1964. However, last week, Kennedy, as the highest authority in public health in the country, reversed decades of protocol. “As of today, we are unable to announce that the Covid vaccine for healthy children and pregnant women has been removed from the CDC’s recommended vaccination schedule,” he stated in a video shared on the social media platform X on May 27th.

Despite his directive, the CDC has only made minor modifications to its recommendations regarding the Covid-19 vaccine. Rather than a full endorsement for children, it is now recommended “Based on shared clinical decisions,” meaning parents should consult their doctors prior to making a decision. It remains uncertain how this will impact vaccine access in various situations, but it may complicate obtaining vaccinations for children at pharmacies.

The CDC’s guidance on vaccination during pregnancy is rather unclear as well. The relevant website still recommends Covid-19 shots during pregnancy, noting that “This page will be updated to reflect your new vaccination schedule.”

Kennedy’s declaration also stands in stark contrast to the positions of major public health organizations. Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have expressed opposition to this stance.

“The CDC and HHS advise individuals to consult healthcare providers regarding personal medical choices,” a spokesperson for HHS told New Scientist. “Under Secretary Kennedy’s leadership, HHS is re-establishing the connection between doctors and patients.”

However, Linda Eckart of Washington University in Seattle argues that these conflicting messages create confusion for the public, stating, “It opens doors for misinformation and undermines overall confidence in vaccines. I cannot fathom that vaccination rates will not decline.”

Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Covid-19 vaccinations during adolescence and pregnancy. In fact, Martin McCurry, head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, emphasized this in a risk assessment for severe Covid-19 published a week before Kennedy’s announcement, further complicating the government’s public health message.

Kennedy’s announcement aligns with similar community policies in several countries. For instance, Australia and the UK do not recommend the Covid-19 vaccine for children unless they are at high risk of severe illness. Likewise, they advise against Covid-19 vaccinations during pregnancy for those already vaccinated.

Asma Khalil, a member of the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization, stated that the UK’s choice is informed by a reduced risk from omicron variants, the cost-effectiveness of vaccinations, and high herd immunity. Nevertheless, these variables can differ from one country to another. Eckart notes that the UK population generally has better access to healthcare than that of the U.S. “These evaluations necessitate a meticulous consideration of risks and benefits for the national populace,” Khalil asserts. HHS did not respond to New Scientist regarding whether a similar assessment influenced Kennedy’s decision.

Perhaps the most concerning aspect of Kennedy’s announcement is its circumvention of the expected ACIP vote on proposed revisions to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, which was slated for later this month. “This method of decision-making—by individual professionals who carefully review conflicts of interest and scrutinize the data—has never occurred in our country,” Eckart emphasizes. “We are traversing uncharted territory,” and she fears that Kennedy’s actions could establish precedents for other vaccine recommendations. “I am aware there are numerous vaccines he has actively opposed,” she continues, recalling Kennedy’s previous denunciations of vaccines linked to autism and false claims regarding the polio vaccine.

“What this implies is that [Kennedy] is undermining established scientific guidelines,” stated Amesh Adalja from Johns Hopkins University.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Women Discover They Are More Attractive Than Men

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Women’s faces are often viewed as more attractive than men’s

Aleksandarnakic/Getty Images

Research indicates that women’s faces are generally deemed more attractive than those of men. This conclusion comes from an extensive study involving 12,000 participants globally, revealing that women tend to rate other women’s faces as more appealing than men do.

“When analyzing the gender of the raters, it becomes clear that women’s preferences for female faces are significantly stronger,” says Eugen Wassiliwizky from the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics in Germany.

Typically, in many species of mammals and birds, males develop traits to attract females, as noted by Ushiri Withkey. For instance, male mandrill baboons showcase vibrant red and blue facial colors.

“Females are usually the selective sex,” he explains. “This has resulted in men appearing even more attractive over time.”

Yet, as biologists like Charles Darwin have suggested, humans seem distinct in their preference for women as the “fairer sex.”

“There has been ongoing discourse since the 19th century regarding the reversal of sexual roles in humans, but surprisingly, this has not been empirically tested,” Wassiliwizky comments.

Using raw data from various studies on facial attraction, he seeks to substantiate this assumption. For instance, one study his team analyzed looked at the impact of emotions on perceived facial attractiveness.

Much of the analyzed data stems from studies intentionally recruiting heterosexual participants for facial evaluations, according to Washiri Withkey. While some ratings come from volunteers identified as LGBTQ+, their numbers are too limited for substantial conclusions.

Women’s preferences for facial attractiveness seem to cross cultural and national boundaries, with the research revealing “moderate to large scale” trends in nearly all global regions, excluding sub-Saharan Africa and ethnic groups identified as African.

As noted by Washiri Withkey, the perception of women’s faces as more attractive correlates with distinct physical characteristics between genders, yet familiarity with individuals can also influence how attractiveness is perceived by both sexes.

By assessing women’s ratings between feminine and masculine facial features, the research concluded that roughly two-thirds of women’s preferences are attributed to physical disparities, while the remaining third reflects an understanding of gender.

Why do women regard other women as more attractive? “Women might display solidarity with each other or better appreciate one another’s beauty,” speculates Washiri Withkey.

Conversely, regarding why women rate men less favorably than other men, he suggests it might stem from a reluctance to acknowledge male attractiveness, compounded by awareness that their assessments are scrutinized.

Alternatively, women may consider a man’s character based on his appearance. Wassiliwizky advocates for more focused future research, proposing questions such as, “Do you find yourself physically attracted to this individual?” and “How appealing is this face?”

“This paper thoroughly displays the gender variations in attraction across numerous images and cultures,” states Anthony Little from the University of Bath, UK. “Nevertheless, researchers have long highlighted that appeal transcends merely selecting peers.”

“Meta-analytic studies decisively affirm the existence of a ‘gender attractiveness gap’,” adds Karel Kleiner from Charles University in the Czech Republic.

Kleisner’s research uncovered that physical differences in facial features are least pronounced in certain African populations, potentially explaining the lack of significant effects observed there.

Moreover, local beauty standards can vary considerably from global norms, Kleisner notes. “A key limitation of this study is its insensitivity to the unique aesthetics of African beauty.”

In addition, studies focused on body attractiveness might yield different results. “Truthfully, we remain uncertain,” Washiri Withkey admits, highlighting the absence of comparative studies on full-body appeal.

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Source: www.newscientist.com