Over 3,000 archaeological artifacts, spanning from the Stone Age to World War II, have been unearthed in the Nieuwe Drostendiep river valley in the Netherlands. This discovery emphasizes the historical significance of waterways in attracting human activity.
Among these artifacts, 600 items of exceptional importance highlight the valley’s role as a hub for trade, sustenance, and even spiritual practices, according to experts.
Currently, environmental restoration initiatives are taking place in the Nieuwe Drostendiep river valley between Slín and Oosterhesselen, located in the northern Drenthe region. During these efforts, archaeologists meticulously examined the upper soil layers, leading to the discovery of numerous historic items such as Stone Age tools, Bronze Age artifacts, and jewelry dating from 200 BC to the early Middle Ages.
Notable finds include a gold ring from the 3rd or 4th century AD and a fibular pin from the 10th or 11th century AD, used historically to fasten clothing. Objects from more recent histories, including artifacts from the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) and World War II, were also uncovered.
All discoveries were made around the New Drostendiep valley – Credit: Getty
The research team is astounded by the sheer number and diversity of artifacts, many of which are in excellent condition. These items were found in relatively undisturbed soil layers, ensuring their preservation.
Professor David Bridgeland from Durham University, who researches human evolution and environmental interaction, noted that: “Rivers supplied essential resources like water and food, attracting both predators and livestock, while also preserving historical evidence.”
Yvonne Turenhout, an executive member overseeing the project, expressed pride in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Drenthe province. She stated that these extraordinary discoveries further highlight the region’s significance.
The artifacts are currently not open for public viewing as researchers are still cleaning, cataloging, and studying them. Officials are contemplating an exhibition and exploring ways to provide digital access to parts of the collection.
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The featured image of the ring is for illustrative purposes only and was not found in the Nieuwe Drostendiep.
Domestic cats (Felis catus) exhibit brain atrophy and neurological decline patterns similar to those seen in aging humans, providing an excellent model for studying dementia and the aging process.
Januel et al. utilized 3,754 data points from age-related brain fluctuations and blood chemistry profiles to align human and cat ages throughout their lifespan. Image credits: Sci.News / Makieni777 / Rise-a-mui / Alexas_Fotos / Dorothe / Vaclav Zavada / Artem Makarov / Daga Roszkowska / Birgit / Pasi Mammela.
Cats have a relatively long lifespan, with evidence suggesting that their aging patterns may mirror those of humans.
According to AnAge, the maximum human lifespan (122.5 years) is nearly double that of great apes, such as chimpanzees (68 years).
Domestic cats can live up to a maximum of 30 years, significantly outliving their wild relatives, like the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), which averages around 19 years.
With an estimated 600 million cats globally, these findings emphasize the relevance of studying their aging processes.
“Given the longevity and abundance of domestic cats, we concentrated on interspecific age concordance between humans and cats, focusing on the aging process,” stated Christine Charbet and her team from Auburn University.
The research examined 3,754 data points derived from humans, cats, and other mammal species.
This data encompassed brain imaging, blood chemistry, disease markers, and behavioral milestones like eye opening and play initiation.
MRI scans revealed that cats and humans undergo comparable age-related changes in brain structure, including shrinkage and ventricular enlargement—changes typically associated with neurodegenerative conditions in both species.
“The similarities in age-related brain atrophy between cats and humans were surprising,” remarked PhD candidate Briar Rigby Dames from the University of Bath.
“These findings underscore the potential of companion animals to provide critical insights into the aging process.”
Instead of using basic age ratios, the researchers employed a complex biological model based on quantifiable age-related changes.
This method showed that aging in both species does not happen at a uniform rate; instead, it accelerates and decelerates at various life stages.
According to the model, late-life aging patterns align closely—80 years in humans equals approximately 15 years in cats. While not all animals reach old age equivalents in humans, domestic cats certainly do.
Dr. Ryan Gibson, a veterinary neurologist at Auburn University, added, “An increasing number of cat owners are seeking advanced brain imaging to identify illnesses in their pets, creating a unique avenue for studying aging animals alongside humans in real-world contexts.”
“This expanded clinical access opens valuable opportunities for translational research—bridging scientific knowledge with healthcare—to deepen our understanding of aging and neurological diseases that benefit both cats and humans.”
Rigby-Dames noted, “There is potential to establish extensive veterinary health databases for companion animals, akin to human health databases like the UK Biobank.”
“Such resources could significantly enhance our ability to investigate aging and diseases using real-world clinical and owner-reported data across species.”
These findings are published in the journal Biology Open.
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Capucine Januel et al. illustrate that cat brains age similarly to humans: Revealing that pet cats live long enough to serve as a natural model for human aging. Biology Open 15 (6): bio062604; doi: 10.1242/bio.062604
A newborn baby’s brain closely resembles an adult’s brain.
Craig Bolan
The human brain is equipped with a crucial structure at birth. Over nine months, approximately 100 billion neurons develop from a tiny 3-millimeter “neural tube,” establishing the foundation for the entire central nervous system.
This impressive neuronal count is enhanced by around 100 trillion connections that form between them, akin to subway lines connecting station hubs in a bustling city. “It’s intelligently designed to enhance efficiency,” states developmental neuroscientist Moriah Thomasson from New York University.
As birth approaches, the brain’s structure starts resembling that of an adult: the fetal connectome shares 61% of the same functional organization found in adults. “It’s astonishing,” Thomasson remarks, though the fetal brain shouldn’t be mistaken for a smaller version of an adult’s brain. While some species, like foals, can walk or feed shortly after birth, humans undergo extended childhoods, developing into highly social and dependent beings.
“The incomplete nature of our brains allows our environments to shape them,” explains philosopher of mind Timothy Bain from Monash University in Australia. “As a result of evolution, if we were born in a Russian-speaking country, it would be problematic if we inherently spoke Swahili.”
Birth triggers significant changes in the brain. “It’s a transformative experience,” states Thomasson. The transition from the buoyancy of the womb to the weight of gravity, fluctuating temperatures, and a flood of new visual stimuli creates a profound learning environment. Accordingly, insulating layers known as myelin sheaths are rapidly formed, enhancing connections across the nervous system and refining specialized brain networks. “These pruning processes become increasingly intense,” notes Thomasson, “Essentially locking in vital connections.”
As a result, our ability to navigate the world grows more sophisticated, with higher cognitive skills building upon foundational abilities. For instance, we begin by distinguishing between objects before learning to track their movements and recognize faces and emotions. “Tracking emotions early on is critical for understanding others’ mental states,” Bain notes.
Advancements in brain scanning technology allow researchers to study the formation and connectivity of brain networks in both adults and fetuses. However, determining the implications for experiential development remains complex. Observed patterns of brain activity and behavior in utero imply that elements of consciousness may exist within the fetus. “It’s possible that fragments of prenatal experience exist, and the capacity for consciousness is likely present,” Bain states, yet he believes that true consciousness may not emerge until the infant confronts the challenges of the external world.
Despite the connection between consciousness and brain biology being clearer, philosophical debates continue regarding the relationship between thought and consciousness. “Can one think without being conscious? Can there be consciousness without thought?” questions philosopher of consciousness Philip Goff of Durham University, UK. Bain suggests that thinking is more about our capability to engage with the world. For example, a few months after birth, infants can controllably move objects above their heads. “Perhaps the first thought a baby experiences is the joy of fulfilling an intention or the recognition of a failed one,” he ponders.
The notion that thought and consciousness only emerge post-birth seems intuitive. However, cognitive scientist Anna Chaunika, from the University of Lisbon, Portugal, cautions against this adult-centered bias. We often view experience through a lens rooted in brain function and assume that thoughts comprise intricate concepts. Nevertheless, research indicates that sensory experiences integrate into the basic sense of self through behaviors established during early pregnancy, as noted by Chaunika. This process of interaction and learning remains crucial for survival. The evolutionary origins of gut neurons and our olfactory system’s rapid specialization for fetal development highlight this interconnectedness. “Being precedes knowledge,” she concludes.
Ultimately, the fetus’s existence centers around its mother. “In the womb, we are inherently in communion with other beings,” notes Chianica, citing studies showing that newborns exhibit different crying patterns based on their mothers’ linguistic backgrounds. “The initial realization is, ‘I am not alone.’
Neuroscientist Emily Rogalski reveals the secrets of superagers
Craig Boylan
As people age, memory often declines, with the ability to recall information significantly reduced by the time one reaches their 80s. However, a unique group known as superagers—individuals over 80 with memory capacity akin to those in their 50s or 60s—remains sharp. One such pioneer in this research is Emily Rogalski.
As a neuroscientist at the University of Chicago and the director of ongoing studies in the Super Ager Research Project, Rogalski is uncovering how these remarkable individuals maintain cognitive sharpness despite exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s disease in their brains. Her team’s findings indicate that superagers possess larger cerebral cortices and hippocampi, essential areas tied to memory. In her interview with New Scientist, Rogalski delves into what defines a superager and shares insights on enhancing one’s chances of joining their ranks.
Alexandra Thompson: What defines a SuperAger?
Emily Rogalski: A superager is someone over 80 who retains memory capabilities comparable to those in their 50s or 60s. Other cognitive areas like language skills and executive function should also be age-appropriate. Most people can recall at least one incredibly active individual in their lives who they cannot believe is 90 yet behaves like they are just 50.
Reports abound of older individuals achieving impressive physical feats, from running marathons to climbing mountains. Why focus on exceptional memory instead of other characteristics?
Forgetfulness often perplexes older adults, representing a major indicator of Alzheimer’s disease. My research investigates how those over 80 with exceptional memories defy the age-related cognitive decline. One approach to Alzheimer’s research focuses on understanding the breakdowns; another explores those who thrive and asks, “What’s the secret?”
How do you identify superagers?
We engage with communities like farmers’ markets and retirement areas to hold classes on healthy aging, and that’s where we meet these remarkable individuals. Word of mouth also plays a vital role as our current superagers often assist us in locating others. Initially focused in the Chicago area, we’ve expanded to five sites across the U.S. and Canada, ensuring diversity in regional and ethnic representation.
What assessments do candidates undergo to qualify as superagers for your research?
Potential superagers participate in cognitive tests and surveys, undergo clinical interviews, brief neurological examinations, MRI scans, and provide blood samples for genetic studies. Surprisingly, many were previously unaware of their exceptional memory, often expressing pride at having been identified as such.
Participants remain engaged with our study over their lifetimes, returning every two years for evaluations. They also participate in biannual phone assessments and agree to donate their brains posthumously, allowing close examination of cellular and molecular factors.
What insights do autopsy results typically provide?
In superagers, overall levels of tau—a protein linked to Alzheimer’s—tend to be lower. Some may show pathology associated with Alzheimer’s, yet remain unexpectedly cognitively healthy. Conversely, there are instances of patients whose cognitive function is profoundly better than anticipated for their age.
Although genetics may protect some from Alzheimer’s, superagers sometimes show pathological signs without symptoms.
When we began the SuperAger Project, it was often suggested that superagers simply have a low risk of Alzheimer’s. But our research shows no significant genetic differences compared to the general elderly population. Some high-risk individuals still belong to the superager category. This raises questions about potential protective factors that mitigate genetic risks.
Identifying unique cellular markers related to hyperaging, we’ve found the presence of an abundance of von Economo neurons in superagers. These neurons reside in areas like the anterior cingulate cortex, which exhibits thicker structure in superagers than in younger adults. This region is crucial for attention, directly influencing memory.
Socializing promotes healthy aging
Grant Rooney/Alamy
What lifestyle choices do superagers typically share?
Among the key traits of superagers is their social engagement. Maintaining connections with others, including younger generations, helps stave off loneliness. Many superagers thrive in environments with vibrant social interactions, often mentoring or volunteering alongside younger individuals.
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You might assume everyone had life handed to them on a silver platter. That’s not what we see. “
Adaptability, perseverance, and resilience also characterize superagers. Their stories often reveal life challenges—ranging from surviving the Holocaust to personal losses—but they consistently demonstrate the ability to bounce back and find joy in their lives.
Dietary habits among superagers vary; not all adhere to strict healthy eating guidelines. Many enjoy their favorite foods, sometimes citing childhood favorites. Physical activity habits differ, ranging from gentle exercises to rigorous fitness routines.
Hearing the stories of Holocaust survivors is incredibly impactful.
One survivor I met, over 90 years old, was filled with life and running a gift shop in a retirement community, showcasing a remarkable ability to connect and share her narrative.
Why is social interaction beneficial for cognitive health?
Engaging in new and challenging activities invigorates our brains. Much like physical exercise strengthens muscles, socializing enhances cognitive resilience. Conversations stimulate brain activity, benefiting overall cognitive function.
How do interactions with younger individuals enhance cognitive engagement for the elderly?
Interactions between generations serve as mutual mentoring opportunities. For instance, an older adult living with their family can help bridge knowledge gaps spanning music and cultural references, providing enriching conversational experiences.
Is it possible for cognitively advantaged individuals to become more social rather than socialize to become cognitively proficient?
We must carefully differentiate between correlation and causation. While cognitive abilities may facilitate social interactions, sustaining those connections appears to play a crucial role in cognitive decline mitigation.
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The daily martini is how they make connections and find a calming point. “
Do superagers indulge in unhealthy habits, or do they strictly adhere to a healthy lifestyle?
Many superagers assert that their longevity is a product of balance. Some mention enjoying daily martinis as a social ritual rather than endorsing alcohol consumption. These moments provide them with a sense of connection and relaxation.
What advice would you offer those seeking to become superagers?
Genetics, once perceived as determining fate, is now understood to be more intricate. While not entirely in our control, our environments and choices can influence outcomes significantly. Social connections are paramount; make an effort to reach out and nurture friendships rather than isolating yourself.
Skull fragment (left) and scapula (right) of a woman buried in Lough Boralee, UK
Credit: Rebecca Ellis-Haken
Unusual scratches found on the interior of a woman’s skull, discovered in Scotland and dated to 2,000 years ago, indicate that brain removal may have been a part of Iron Age funerary traditions in Britain.
The Iron Age in Britain, spanning from around 800 BC until the Roman conquest in 43 AD, remains shrouded in mystery due to the scarcity of preserved human remains from that era.
Evidence shows that many individuals from this time were buried alongside their maternal relatives rather than their spouses. Excavations at Iron Age sites like Suddern Farm and Danebury in southern England reveal that bodies were sometimes exhumed after burial, or left exposed until final interment, suggesting complex funerary practices. The findings suggest a rich cultural tradition surrounding death.
A research team led by Laura Castells Navarro from the University of York reevaluated remains of an adult woman and a teenage boy buried in a low cairn at Loch Borralee in Scotland. These remains were initially excavated in 2000, with both individuals estimated to have died between 50 BC and 70 AD.
The team discovered distinct striae and abrasions inside the woman’s skull. According to Castells-Navarro, this suggests purposeful brain removal.
“The scratches are so regular and straight that they likely result from the use of a sharp tool,” Castells-Navarro explains. Adele Bricking of the Museum of Wales commented on the significance of these findings, stating that the uniformity of the marks indicates intentional manipulation.
However, Richard Maggwick, a professor at Cardiff University, expresses caution, suggesting that while the marks indicate manipulation, it remains uncertain if they definitively relate to brain removal.
The study also revealed that some of the woman’s long bones, including the femur, tapered towards their tips, possibly indicating they were crafted into tools.
Castells-Navarro posits, “They likely took a long bone, broke it in half, and processed it until it tapered smoothly.” Conversely, Maggwick suggests these bones may have been incidental to tool-making rather than intentional modifications.
Despite speculation around the purpose behind these bone alterations, the woman’s remains were ultimately reassembled and placed in a cairn, indicating a respect for her identity.
This research provides valuable insights into relationships between the living and the dead during the Iron Age. Andrew Lamb from the University of Edinburgh highlights parallels with postmortem practices found throughout Europe, suggesting a complex view of death and identity in prehistoric societies.
Furthermore, genetic analysis of the individuals revealed they were likely second cousins on the maternal side, and connected to Iron Age communities from Orkney and Applecross. This agrees with archaeological findings of maritime trade and cultural exchanges during the Iron Age.
Lamb notes these communities likely used small wooden-framed boats for navigation, which were suitable for coastal sailing.
Neuroscientists are increasingly investigating the midlife brain, focusing on the subtle yet significant changes that occur from ages 40 to 65. These findings suggest that midlife may be a crucial period for identifying cognitive challenges that can arise later in life. As Sebastian Dohm-Hansen, a bioinformatician at University College Cork, Ireland, notes, “We kind of jumped through middle age.”
While much research has centered on childhood brain development and age-related degeneration, midlife changes warrant attention. As cognitive decline often manifests dramatically post-age 60, recognizing subtler shifts during midlife can enhance long-term brain health.
“Think of midlife as the apex of an inverted U-curve,” says Ahmad Hariri, a professor of neuroscience at Duke University. The first decades focus on growth and refinement of brain functions, followed by gradual decline. “Targeting midlife is like extending the flat section at the top of the curve to slow the downward trajectory.”
Research such as the recent study conducted by Dohm-Hansen and colleagues highlights changes in neural connectivity, impacting how neurons transmit signals across long distances. This connectivity peaks in middle age but starts declining thereafter, which can correlate with cognitive abilities and memory recall.
Detecting cognitive decline in midlife is potentially transformative. As Dohm-Hansen mentions, “The brain enters a kind of tipping point,” offering a prime opportunity to identify future issues. However, tracking these variables is complex, as some brain networks may compensate for others, with changes differing from person to person.
Promising developments include blood-based biomarker tests that detect misfolded amyloid beta and tau proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Such tests could enable early detection of dementia symptoms, perhaps before significant cognitive decline occurs, as highlighted in recent studies.
While these tests may play a role in clinical screenings, neurologists emphasize cautious interpretation, noting that most research has focused on older adults. Not everyone with protein accumulation will develop Alzheimer’s.
Innovatively, tools to measure biological aging rates have emerged, allowing assessments from brain MRI scans. Hariri’s team developed a technique to gauge a person’s biological aging at age 45, finding significant correlations between accelerated aging, hippocampal atrophy, and decreased cognitive test performance. These results suggest a relationship between midlife biological changes and later dementia risk, although further longitudinal research is essential.
While we await reliable biomarker tests and effective dementia treatments, maintaining awareness of psychological symptoms is crucial. A study recently indicated that specific midlife psychological and cognitive changes may signal a heightened dementia risk years ahead, as Gil Livingston, a professor of psychiatry at University College London, points out.
Additionally, established health indicators such as blood pressure and cholesterol remain vital, as their monitoring can help mitigate dementia risk. It is essential not to overlook these factors.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle in midlife is another avenue for dementia prevention. The latest Lancet Commission on Dementia suggests that addressing lifestyle factors could prevent 45% of dementia cases—especially crucial during midlife.
In the quest for cognitive health, proactive measures in midlife are paramount. Investing in brain health early, such as managing blood pressure, can yield significant long-term benefits against cognitive decline, as Livingston emphasizes: “Waiting reduces your cognitive reserve. Doing it sooner makes a difference.”
The recent discovery of fossils, including those of a giant tortoise, ground sloth, a lion-sized armadillo relative known as pampatea, a striped-toothed cat, and others such as horses, camels, and mastodons in Bender’s Cave on Texas’ Edwards Plateau, may unveil a previously unknown warm period about 100,000 years ago.
An artistic representation of Ice Age mammals: Fossils of species resembling the armadillo-like pampatea and giant sloth were found in a Texas water cave. Image credit: Jaime Chirinos.
Bender’s Cave, situated on private land in Comal County, serves as a crucial fossil repository. This underground water channel, significant for central Texas’ groundwater system, is reported to be dense with fossils.
“I’ve never encountered a cave with so many fossils scattered around. The bones were literally everywhere,” commented John Moretti, a paleontologist at the University of Texas at Austin.
The bones were believed to have entered the cave through a sinkhole triggered by erosion and flooding thousands of years ago, where they have been preserved ever since.
“Evidence suggests that these fossils could be from the last warm interglacial phase, approximately 100,000 years ago,” Dr. Moretti stated.
“Despite extensive paleontological studies in the area over the past century, no fossils from this epoch had been previously identified in central Texas.”
“This discovery is providing invaluable insights, showcasing the area’s unique environmental and animal communities, which are unlike anything documented before in Texas.”
Dr. Moretti and local caver John Young extracted fossils from 21 distinct zones within Bender’s Cave.
To access the fossils, we donned goggles and snorkels, crawling along the riverbed where collecting was effortless—simply pulling bones from the river’s bottom without needing to excavate them.
Remarkable finds include hespero test do giant tortoise bones, giant sloth Megalonix Jeffer Sonnypanpasser, and remains from scimitar-toothed cats homotherium serum, horses, camels, and mastodons.
All fossils displayed a polished, rounded appearance with comparable rust-red mineralization, indicating they were deposited in the cave at roughly the same time.
“This study highlights the fact that even in a well-explored region like central Texas, new discoveries continue to emerge,” commented Dr. David Ledesma from St. Edward’s University, not involved in the research.
The team’s findings are published in the journal Quaternary Research, detailing how these late Pleistocene megafauna could hold evidence of the last interglacial period. For more information, visit the published study.
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John A. Moretti and John Young. 2026. Discovery of late Pleistocene megafauna at Bender’s Cave on the Edwards Plateau in Texas may indicate evidence of the last interglacial period. Quaternary Research 131: 134-160; doi: 10.1017/qua.2025.10071
Despite having the technology for metal tools, communities in Bronze Age Britain effectively utilized animal bone tools in conjunction with metal for copper extraction over nine centuries, from 3700 to 2800 years ago.
A detailed study of 150 bones from a Bronze Age copper mining site at Great Orme, North Wales, reveals that these bones were deliberately chosen and crafted for specific mining tasks, particularly for extracting copper from soft rocks.
“This discovery challenges the conventional belief that Bronze Age mining relied predominantly on metal and stone tools. A more diverse and adaptable toolkit is emerging,” says Olga Zagorodnia from the British Museum.
Since the early 1990s, over 30,000 bone fragments have been unearthed at the site. Preliminary studies show that more than half of these fragments originate from cattle, with the rest primarily from sheep, goats, and pigs. Some bones are suspected to have served functional roles as tools, as noted in a 2011 study that identified wear patterns indicative of tool use.
By employing high-resolution microscopy, Zagorodnia and White analyzed the wear marks on the 150 bones. They replicated mining activities using bone tool replicas to compare wear patterns with those on ancient specimens.
“Notably, we observed rapid post-consumer wear development, which corroborated our microscopic findings,” remarks White. “Our experiments with bone splitting produced circular fracture patterns that mirrored those found in the archaeological samples, creating a tangible link to the ancient miners.”
The findings imply that these bones were purposefully modified into various tools, including wedges fashioned from limb bones for splitting soft rocks potentially rich in copper. Evidence of tapering and polishing suggests that some tools were designed to be affixed to a handle, akin to a metal pick, a significant new discovery.
Scoops Crafted from Scapula and Pelvic Bones
O. Zagorodnia
Conversely, rib bones likely served to carve through soft sandy limestone, possibly acting as scrapers or agitators to enhance copper separation during ore processing. Moreover, researchers identified tools fashioned from scapula or pelvis bones that may have been utilized for shoveling or scraping fine ore.
“The evidence from Great Orme signifies a continuation of long-established technological practices, predating metalworking.” Researchers posit that bones, as readily available resources in pastoral societies, offered a labor-efficient alternative to crafting metal tools.
The findings align with those from other prehistoric mining sites across Europe, where bone tools have been discovered. “Bronze Age communities in Britain and Europe didn’t merely switch to metal; they employed an integrated approach, utilizing both materials creatively,” notes White. “This reflects a profound understanding of material properties and hints at organized mining techniques involving specialized tools and potentially skilled labor.”
“Both authors introduce a remarkable level of scientific rigor to this unique field of artifact research.” states freelance archaeologist Simon Timberlake from Cambridge, UK. “To fully grasp the advancements that transitioned Stone Age technology into the Metal Age, we must thoroughly investigate the tools they employed.”
Discover the Origins of Humanity and Prehistoric Times in South-West England
Engage in an enriching experience of the early human eras, including the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, with this gentle walking tour.
Paleontologists have unveiled a remarkable discovery—a new species of multituberculous mammal from the genus Simolodon based on fossils found in Baja California, Mexico.
Illustration of Simolodon de Sosai holding fruit on a tree. Image credit: Andrei Atutin.
The newly identified mammal, Simolodon de Sosai, roamed the region that is now Mexico approximately 75 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period.
This ancient creature was about the size of a golden hamster, weighing around 100 grams.
It likely foraged on the ground and in trees, primarily consuming fruits and insects.
According to Professor Gregory Wilson Mantilla, a paleontologist at the University of Washington and curator of vertebrate paleontology at the Burke Museum, “Genus Simolodon was quite prevalent during the Late Cretaceous, the final chapter of the dinosaur era.”
Fossils of Simolodon have been uncovered across Western North America, stretching from western Canada to Mexico.
This new species, Simolodon de Sosai, represents an ancestor of those that survived the mass extinction event.
“Its relatively small size and omnivorous diet likely contributed to its survival advantages,” said Professor Mantilla.
Fossilized remains of Simolodon de Sosai, including parts of its skeleton such as teeth, skull, jaw, femur, and ulna, were discovered in the El Gallo Formation of Baja California in 2009.
This specimen is considered the most complete mammal known from the Mesozoic era in Mexico and one of the best-studied representatives of simolodontans, a significant group of multituberculates from North America.
“Fossil discoveries here are rare when compared to other regions,” explained Professor Wilson Mantilla.
The discovery of more than just teeth for Simolodon de Sosai enhances understanding of its anatomical features and locomotion.
This contributes to a broader comprehension of the genus and its ecological niche, providing insights into the multituberculate lineage.
Research indicates that the local mammalian fauna of El Gallo is currently represented by 16 specimens, including three multituberculates, one metatherian, and one eutherian.
“While additional sampling is necessary, the existing mammalian fauna appears to exhibit the highest biogeographic similarity to the native fauna of Terlingua in West Texas,” the researchers noted.
The findings were published in a recent paper in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.
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Gregory P. Wilson Mantilla et al. New skull and postcranial remains of Simolodon (Mammalia, Polytuberculata, Cymolodontidae) from the Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) El Gallo Formation of Baja California, Mexico. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on April 22, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2641109
The biological age of an individual indicates damage over time, which can be enhanced through lifestyle adjustments such as improved diet and routine exercise.
Every compelling narrative requires an inciting event that prompts the main character into action. For freelance health journalist David Cox, this pivotal moment came in the form of a health scare. He discusses this experience in his new book: Age Code: The New Science of Food and How it Can Save Us.
In his mid-30s and deeply engaged in the growing field of geriatrics, Cox opted to determine his biological age. After undergoing three tests that all yielded alarming results, he realized he was aging prematurely.
Cox’s biological age, indicating the extent of age-related damage accumulated over 34 years, was typical for a 36-year-old. While there’s no immediate cause for concern, he explains, “If no actions are taken, by your 50s, you will face a substantially increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer.” This marks the beginning of his captivating and often challenging journey to lower his biological age.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the concept of biological age is based on a solid premise. Individuals age at varying rates, leading to significant mismatches between chronological age and accumulated biological damage. The biological clock offers a clear metric for this discrepancy. It’s also important to note that age-related damage can be halted or even reversed.
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Cox chronicles his journey to understand and mitigate the factors of aging. “
However, the concept has drawbacks, including variations in test outcomes. Nevertheless, since Cox took three different tests—all yielding similar results—and focuses on lowering his biological age rather than merely obtaining a snapshot, we can trust his findings.
A healthier alternative to excessive sugary drinks and chocolate biscuits.
Carlos Gawronski/Getty Images
Realizing that dietary changes are the simplest path to lowering biological age, Cox embarked on his journey with several kilograms gained and a subpar diet full of sugary drinks, chocolate biscuits, and sedentary fast food lunches, with minimal whole grains or legumes. His daily caloric intake reached 2700 calories—above the NHS’s recommended 2500 calories for an average adult male.
Engaging with leading geriatric experts, Cox acknowledged that his diet exposed him to numerous aging factors. A total of ten factors that accelerate aging were identified, beginning with the most recognizable: excess calorie intake. Other well-documented factors included insufficient fiber, micronutrients, and unhealthy fats.
Some factors, like dietary acid load and advanced glycation end products, are still largely unrecognized outside specialized nutritional and geriatric research. Cox’s grasp of scientific principles and his ability to present them in practical ways for self-improvement impressed me.
As Cox reduced his caloric intake, he also began to identify drivers of aging and sought to limit his exposure. This process included multiple lab visits to analyze various bodily measurements and fluids.
Notably, he aimed to increase his fiber intake to over 50 grams daily, surpassing the recommended 25 to 30 grams, a concept termed “fiber maxing,” although he refrains from using that terminology.
Having undertaken a similar challenge, I can attest that obtaining this amount of fiber is remarkably difficult, and maintaining such intake is even more challenging. However, Cox’s narrative centers on his journey, rendering the book both compelling and relatable.
Each chapter stands alone, but one critique of Age Code is its lack of cohesion. Sifting through the various, sometimes conflicting dietary health recommendations can be daunting; even with my background as a science writer, a bit more guidance would have been beneficial. Numerous ingredients are heralded for their remarkable health benefits—green tea, pomegranate juice, Iberico ham, blueberries, nuts, and more. Should I strive to incorporate all of these into my diet, or concentrate on a few that offer the most benefit? Cox doesn’t delve deeply into these considerations.
Furthermore, certain methods for mitigating dietary aging seem to conflict. For example, aiming to decrease dietary acid load encourages reduced animal product intake, while increasing omega-3 fatty acids suggests incorporating more fatty fish. Which should be prioritized?
Despite these challenges, Cox’s journey deserves admiration. New Scientist readers who appreciate our health and nutrition coverage will discover a wealth of intriguing insights and practical advice for adopting a healthier lifestyle and enhancing longevity.
In the book’s conclusion, Cox revisits the lab to reassess his biological age, offering a satisfying closure. His endeavors weren’t in vain, and he makes it clear that similar accomplishments are attainable by everyone.
This insightful book on anti-aging delves into not just diet but also sleep and physical activity. While it leans towards self-help, it provides a wealth of practical advice.
This title verges on self-promotion, but it’s precisely what it claims to be. I initially wished to name it This Book May Delay Your Death, though the publisher considered that a bit gloomy.
No surprise, the titles of these books follow a distinct pattern. However, Rajan offers a humorous and insightful guide to understanding body functions and optimizing health.
Archaeologists from Colorado State University have uncovered evidence that Native Americans were crafting dice and engaging in games of chance as far back as 12,000 years ago, predating similar practices believed to have originated solely in the Old World.
Prehistoric Native American dice from various locations: (a, d) Signal Butte, NE (mid-Holocene); (b) Agate Basin, WY (early Holocene); (c, f) Agate Basin, WY (Late Pleistocene); (e, g) Lindenmeyer, CO (Late Pleistocene); (h) Irvine, WY (Late Holocene). Image credit: Department of Anthropology, Smithsonian Institution, American Museum of Natural History/University of Wyoming.
“Historians often regarded dice and probability as innovations unique to the Old World,” explains Colorado State University’s Robert Madden, a doctoral student and author of the study.
“Our findings reveal that ancient Native American societies were deliberately producing objects designed for random outcomes, utilizing these results in organized games much earlier than previously believed.”
The earliest artifact identified by Madden originates from the Folsom site, dating between 12,800 and 12,200 years ago.
Unlike modern cubic dice, these were double-sided devices known as binary lots, crafted from bone, either flat or slightly rounded, and typically oval or rectangular in form, designed for easy handling and tossing onto a surface.
Each side of these binary lots was marked differently, distinguished by surface treatments, colors, or other visible alterations, similar to heads or tails on a coin, with one side designated for scoring.
When tossed, these dice would always land with one side facing up, yielding a binary (two-outcome) result.
Scores were determined by the numbers displayed when thrown together.
“These tools are simple yet purposeful. They are intentionally made for generating random outcomes, not mere leftovers from bone processing,” Madden stated.
This study also introduces a new morphological test for identifying North American dice in archaeological contexts, moving beyond subjective comparisons.
The test was developed through an analysis of 293 historical Native American dice sets cataloged by ethnologist Stewart Culin in his 1907 work, North American Indian Games.
The research reexamines previously collected artifacts, assessing whether they meet the new, objective criteria for dice, allowing for a systematic evaluation of the archaeological record.
Most of these artifacts had been excavated prior but lacked a clear standard for identification, which hampered their inclusion in broader analyses.
By applying this novel approach, Madden identified over 600 probable and diagnostic dice from sites that span significant periods in North American prehistory, from the late Pleistocene through to European contact and beyond.
“Most of these items had already been discovered and documented,” Madden noted.
“What was lacking was a standardized method to recognize these artifacts.”‘
“Our research does not claim that Ice Age hunter-gatherers practiced formal probability theory,” Madden clarified.
“However, they intentionally made, observed, and utilized random outcomes in repeatable, rule-based scenarios, tapping into probabilistic principles like the law of large numbers. This insight reshapes our understanding of the global evolution of probabilistic thought.”
The study further highlights the extensive range and sustainability of Native American dice games.
Dice artifacts were discovered at 57 sites across 12 regional areas, reflecting diverse cultures and survival strategies from Paleoindian to Archaic and late prehistoric periods.
“The versatility and endurance of these games underscore their cultural significance,” Madden stated.
“Games of chance provided structured, neutral environments for ancient Native Americans, facilitating interactions, trade, alliances, and the management of uncertainty. In this context, they served as essential social tools.”
The study has been published in Ancient History of America.
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Robert J. Madden. Pleistocene Probability: The Origins and Antiquity of Native American Dice, Games of Chance, and Gambling. Ancient History of America published online on April 2, 2026. doi: 10.1017/aaq.2025.10158
Have you ever worried that your mental sharpness isn’t what it used to be? Perhaps you find it difficult to recall the names of actors or politicians, or you struggle with basic mental arithmetic. If so, you might be contemplating the current state of your brain and whether cognitive decline is inevitable.
It’s crucial to address these concerns early, as brain development typically concludes in your 20s, with cognitive functions gradually declining with age. Additionally, there’s an increasing risk of dementia, particularly with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, especially in countries experiencing aging populations.
Fortunately, research indicates that both cognitive decline and dementia risk are influenced by what experts categorize as “modifiable risk factors.”
This means there is hope! By adopting certain lifestyle habits, you can keep your brain sharp and significantly reduce your risk of developing dementia.
Stay Mentally Active to Enhance Your Cognitive Reserve
Psychologists and gerontologists often speak of cognitive reserve. This refers to the brain’s ability to adapt to aging and disease.
Those with a high cognitive reserve can perform well on mental tests even if they display biological markers of Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting they can cope with brain challenges effectively.
Many activities can enhance your cognitive reserve; including reading, learning to play an instrument, solving complex puzzles, acquiring a new language, and traveling. Essentially, the adage “use it or lose it” holds true.
You may have encountered brain-training games designed to sharpen your cognitive abilities. However, the benefits of these games do not transfer to daily life and could potentially hinder real-life social engagements. Interacting with others is the most effective form of brain training.
Research indicates that social isolation is a significant risk factor for dementia. A comprehensive review by a team at the University of Groningen concluded that “individuals who are less socially engaged, have fewer interactions, and experience greater loneliness display an increased risk of developing dementia.”
Therefore, prioritize engaging conversations with friends and family. Such interactions not only stimulate your brain but also enhance your emotional well-being. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider volunteering or joining a club.
Your brain requires oxygen and nutrients to function optimally. Maintaining good cardiovascular health supports brain health. In contrast, a sedentary lifestyle and obesity have been linked to faster cognitive decline and increased dementia risk.
Consider incorporating more physical activity into your routine. Whether through running, cycling, swimming, or simply walking more often, staying active is essential. Engaging in hobbies such as gardening or even singing can promote an active lifestyle.
Nourishing your brain with a balanced diet is vital. Reducing saturated fat helps prevent arterial blockages, while consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants necessary for brain health.
The World Health Organization recommends a “Mediterranean diet” rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, while low in saturated fat and meat. If implementing this seems daunting, start with small changes, like adding an extra piece of fruit daily or limiting processed foods.
Stay Curious
Surprisingly, personality traits also correlate with brain health. Individuals high in openness to experiences—traits linked to curiosity and creativity—exhibit a lower risk of dementia. According to a study from the University of Georgia, “Higher openness is associated with superior psychomotor speed, cognitive flexibility, and working memory in both depressed and non-depressed older adults.”
Fortunately, you can cultivate curiosity. Seek awe-inspiring experiences, explore unfamiliar places, or engage in culturally enriching activities like live theatre.
If you’ve established positive habits like staying socially and physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, and nurturing curiosity, there’s much to feel optimistic about regarding the future of your brain. This mindset is crucial.
Research increasingly shows that your attitude towards aging significantly impacts your brain health. Expecting cognitive decline can create a self-fulfilling prophecy.
However, recognizing your influence over brain health through lifestyle choices increases your likelihood of enjoying cognitive vitality. Embracing this knowledge benefits your brain.
Surround yourself with positive older role models and apply the strategies outlined in this article to empower yourself to train your brain effectively. By doing so, you may realize your full cognitive potential.
It’s curious: as the years go by, the scale doesn’t seem to reflect the passage of time. You may have heard that metabolism slows with age, but what does that really mean for the average person?
No matter how you look at it, you’re likely just as active, if not more so, than in your youth, and your appetite remains unchanged.
So why is weight gain still so common?
Research published in the journal Cell Metabolism suggests that changes in the shape of melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptors in the brain might hold the answer.
Not familiar with MC4 receptors? You’re not alone. However, understanding these receptors could be crucial in tackling age-related obesity.
MC4 receptors have been a focal point in obesity research for some time. Here’s what we know:
MC4 receptors are primarily located in the hypothalamus, the brain’s control center. These receptors are found on neurons that integrate hormonal signals to manage appetite and energy balance.
According to Kazuhiro Nakamura, the senior author of the study and a physiologist at Nagoya University, “MC4 receptors receive satiety signals and help regulate metabolism while suppressing appetite.”
This “satiety signal” notifies the body when it’s full, controlled by hormones like melanocortin and leptin acting on MC4 and other receptors that dictate when to stop eating and when to ramp up energy expenditure.
As you likely know, the balance of food intake and energy expenditure is central to weight management, with MC4 receptors playing a pivotal role.
Previous studies indicate that individuals with genetic mutations affecting the MC4 receptor are more prone to weight gain from childhood onward. Despite only 1 in 500 individuals having this genetic defect, the prevalence of severely obese children can be as high as 5 in 100, making MC4 receptor deficiency the most common monogenic cause of obesity.
While it’s clear that MC4 receptors are crucial to our weight, they don’t fully explain the gradual weight gain associated with aging. Fortunately, Nakamura and his team have some insights to share.
Discover More:
What Happens to MC4 Receptors as We Age?
Research indicates that as rats age, neuronal “antennas” called “primary cilia,” which contain MC4 receptors, shorten, leading to a decrease in MC4 receptor numbers.
Professor Nakamura explains, “Shortening antennae with age results in decreased metabolism and increased appetite, contributing to obesity in middle age.”
Although this study focused on rats, past research links changes in MC4 receptors to weight gain in both animals and potentially humans. “We suspect a similar mechanism could be present in humans,” says Nakamura.
The researchers employed genetic engineering to shorten the antennae of young rats, resulting in increased food intake and reduced fat burning, leading to weight gain. They also discovered that rats lacking the MC4 receptor were resistant to the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin, much like obese humans.
Aging and poor diet contribute to the shortening of primary cilia containing MC4R, linked to obesity in rats – Image courtesy of Kazuhiro Nakamura
However, some researchers urge caution against drawing premature conclusions. “It’s too early to definitively state this because the studies have only been conducted in rats, and we’re missing key pieces of the puzzle,” says Sadaf Farooqi, Professor of Metabolism and Medicine at the University of Cambridge.
She emphasizes that age-related weight gain is complex, involving factors like hormones, muscle mass loss, and decreased metabolic rate. “This suggests that critical genes and molecules regulating body weight might change with age,” she notes.
All Is Not Lost: Here’s What You Can Do
On the bright side, the findings highlight a potential solution. While the antenna shortening process may be concerning, it can be slowed down through simple lifestyle changes.
Maintaining a healthy diet and practicing calorie moderation are crucial. These measures not only aid in weight management but may also preserve your MC4 receptor-rich antennae as you age. Studies have shown that rats on high-fat diets experience quicker shortening of their MC4-containing cilia compared to those on healthier, calorie-restricted diets.
As Nakamura states, “Our findings underscore the importance of avoiding overeating. While calorie restriction can be challenging, it aids in reducing fat storage due to excessive energy intake.”
Moreover, he advises that adopting moderate eating habits is essential for preserving the cilia that keep the brain’s anti-obesity mechanisms functioning optimally as we age.
Lastly, consistent exercise is vital—not just for burning calories. “In middle-aged and older adults, exercise plays a crucial role in muscle maintenance,” says Farooqi. Maintaining muscle mass is important because muscle burns calories efficiently. Incorporating resistance training and ensuring adequate protein intake (recommended at about 20 grams per meal) can significantly help.
If you’re seeking a more advanced option, don’t be discouraged. Nakamura explains that the research team succeeded in engineering a protein that prevents the shortening of antennae, which allowed rats to shed excess weight.
In the meantime, Professor Farooqi highlights that treatments aimed at enhancing the MC4 pathway may benefit individuals facing midlife weight gain, particularly menopausal women. “While we still need more evidence, this is a promising avenue worth exploring,” she remarks.
About Our Experts
Kazuhiro Nakamura: Professor at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, his research interests include central nervous circuits, thermoregulation, and metabolism. His work has been published in leading journals such as Frontiers of Life Science and Neuroscience Journal.
Sadaf Farooqi: Professor of Metabolism and Medicine at the University of Cambridge and Honorary Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge. Farooqi is a leading figure in obesity research, having identified key genetic disorders related to severe childhood obesity and understanding appetite control mechanisms.
Württemberg State Museum / Hendrik Zwietasch, CC BY 4.0
Recent research on enigmatic symbols engraved on artifacts from Germany indicates that Stone Age humans, around 40,000 years ago, utilized a rudimentary form of writing. This discovery could potentially delay the timeline for the emergence of primitive writing systems by over 30,000 years, paralleling early cuneiform scripts.
Early Homo sapiens, particularly after migrating to Europe about 45,000 years ago, began to make intentional marks on various objects. These included pendants, tools, and intricately carved figurines adorned with graphic symbols—ranging from lines and crosses to dots. These groups also illustrated symbols on cave walls alongside animal representations, and their meanings remain a subject of scholarly debate.
“The systematic arrangement and repeated use of distinct symbols mark a notable advancement,” explains archaeologist Eva Dutkiewicz from the Museum of Prehistory and Early History in Berlin, Germany.
The overarching question concerns the meanings behind these ancient symbols. Without a ‘Rosetta Stone’ equivalent, deciphering their significance is complex; however, studying their application offers valuable insights.
To delve deeper, Dutkiewicz and linguist Christian Benz from Saarland University analyzed markings on artifacts unearthed in the Swabian Jura region, dating between 43,000 and 34,000 years ago, during the Aurignacian period. They examined 260 artifacts, including flutes and animal-human hybrid figurines, which featured 22 different symbols over 3,000 times, primarily employing a V-shaped notch, lines, crosses, and dots.
The researchers employed computer models to assess the complexity and density of information encoded in these sequences. By comparing these patterns to modern scripts and Protocuneiform—Mesopotamia’s oldest known writing dating from 3500 to 3350 BC—they aimed to identify parallels between Stone Age markings and later systems of communication.
“Information can be encoded through the variety and combination of symbols,” says Benz, noting that even the 26 letters of the English alphabet can generate extensive meanings through different arrangements.
The analysis indicated a clear distinction between Aurignac symbols and contemporary letters. Surprisingly, the statistical properties of these 40,000-year-old symbols closely resemble those found in early proto-cuneiform tablets. “Their characteristics show notable similarity,” Benz remarks.
This discovery suggests that early Homo sapiens in Europe may have developed a symbolic recording system, aligned with one definition of writing: a visual communication method using established markings.
“The study indicates that the markings from the Aurignac period mirror a compositional style akin to proto-cuneiform,” states paleoanthropologist Geneviève von Petzinger. “They exhibit repetition and organization.” Yet, this does not imply that both systems shared identical meanings.
While cuneiform originated primarily for accounting purposes—such as recording crop amounts—the question arises about the meaning of “writing” in the Stone Age. Some markings on Aurignac artifacts hint at potential calendrical functions. For instance, an ivory plaque featuring a lion-human figure called Adorant showcases sequences of dots that may represent “calendar observations,” Dutkiewicz suggests, noting their likely interest in tracking time.
Dutkiewicz and Benz further analyzed object symbol usage, revealing intriguing patterns. Despite the cross being common, it was never used on human depictions but frequently found on animal and tool carvings, especially relating to horses and mammoths. Conversely, dots were absent from tool representations.
Mammoth Figurine from Vogelherd Cave
University of Tübingen/Hildegard Jensen, CC-BY-SA 4.0
“While we cannot definitively interpret the meanings, a consistent pattern suggests deliberate choices in symbol application,” Dutkiewicz notes. Additionally, the consistency in these markings over millennia points to a tradition that was likely transmitted across generations.
“These markings were intentionally placed and had significance for the creators,” observes von Petzinger. “Their exact meanings, however, remain elusive.”
This research builds upon a 2023 study suggesting that sequences of dots and lines accompanying cave paintings, allegedly encoding predator behaviors, hint at early systems of recordkeeping.
Overall, while cuneiform emerged around 3200 BC as the first comprehensive writing system, its roots could trace back as far as 40,000 years.
Illustration of the Iron Age Mass Grave at Gomolava
Credit: Sarah Nylund
In a groundbreaking discovery, evidence suggests that women and children were intentionally targeted in the largest prehistoric mass murder ever found in Europe. The 77 victims, buried over 2,800 years ago, appear to have died from brutal violence.
This significant mass grave was unearthed at Gomolava, an early Iron Age site located in the Carpathian Basin of modern-day Serbia. The site is characterized by a man-made mound, known as a tell, formed through layers of debris accumulated over thousands of years of human habitation since the late 6th millennium B.C. Archaeological findings also include remnants of adobe structures, pottery, and organic materials.
Research led by Linda Fibiger and her colleagues at the University of Edinburgh analyzed skeletal remains sourced from cemeteries at the Vojvodina Museum in Novi Sad, Serbia, employing DNA and isotope studies to shed light on these ancient events.
Of the 77 individuals, 51 were identified as children and adolescents. Biological sex was ascertained for 72 of the individuals, revealing that 51 were female.
Initial assessments in 1976 had misattributed the cause of death to a pandemic; however, new analyses revealed unhealed injuries consistent with violent acts, including defensive wounds and projectile impacts.
“Many injuries were to the head, indicating forceful contact. The prevalence and nature of these wounds suggest intentional killing rather than accidental death,” Fibiger remarked. “This incident appears to be exceptionally brutal.”
The research team analyzed DNA from the remains of 25 individuals and studied the ratios of strontium, oxygen, and carbon isotopes found in the tooth enamel of 24 victims. This analysis helps reconstruct childhood environmental conditions and revealed that the individuals were often not closely related and had diverse diets in their youth.
“Most were not even related within the last 12 generations,” asserted Barry Molloy from University College Dublin, Ireland. He posits that the victims were part of a broader societal structure that shared cultural practices without necessarily forming close-knit groups.
This horrific genocide occurred during the 9th century BC, coinciding with the migration of nomadic pastoralists from the Eurasian steppes, while local populations were reestablishing old settlements and agricultural practices. Molloy highlighted the potential for conflicts over land rights during this transitional period, which could have led to such violent outcomes.
“The targeting of women and children suggests a different motive than what we typically associate with warfare,” Molloy explained. “It points toward a calculated strategy to assert control or quell dissent.”
There is speculation that perpetrators may have aimed to undermine resistance by killing young children, previously considered for enslavement, sending a strong message to nearby tribes.
Interpreting genocide is complex,” noted Pere Gelabert of the University of Vienna, Austria. “The Iron Age was marked by regional instability and conflict. Mass burial practices may reflect ritualistic massacres, focusing on women and children, or result from men being absent during such violent occurrences.”
Interestingly, the burial sites contained personal artifacts like bronze jewelry and ceramic vessels, along with animal remains and crushed stones, suggesting a careful and symbolic burial process. “This implies distinct groups carried out the killings and the funerals,” Molloy concluded.
The ancestors of Britain’s Bell Beaker people inhabited wetlands and heavily relied on fishing.
Sheila Terry/Science Photo Library
Analysis of ancient DNA has meticulously unveiled the origins of a fascinating group that emerged in Britain around 2400 B.C., nearly displacing the builders of Stonehenge within just a century.
This group is associated with the Bell Beaker culture, which emerged in Western Europe during the Early Bronze Age, named after the distinctive pots they left behind. While previously thought the culture stemmed from Portugal or Spain, recent research indicates that the people who populated Britain originated from the delta regions of Northwest Europe, across the North Sea. Remarkably, this resilient group maintained aspects of their hunter-gatherer lifestyle and ancestry for thousands of years, despite the spread of early farming communities across Europe.
David Reich and his team from Harvard University analyzed the genomes of 112 individuals who lived in present-day Netherlands, Belgium, and western Germany throughout the period of 8,500 to 1,700 BC.
“The Netherlands was once considered a mundane place, with every square inch traversed millions of times. Yet, it reveals itself as one of the most intriguing areas in Europe.”
The DNA sequenced in Reich’s lab indicates that this population emerged from the Rhine-Meuse delta, bordering the Netherlands and Belgium. This group derived from resourceful hunter-gatherer communities, thriving on fish, waterfowl, game birds, and diverse plant life found in the flooded wetlands surrounding these expansive rivers.
Originating in Anatolia, Neolithic farmers began to expand throughout Europe around 6500 BC, likely due to their agricultural advantage, allowing for larger family units compared to hunter-gatherers. This led to the near disappearance or significant dilution of hunter-gatherers’ genetic ancestry in regions where farmers settled.
However, research reveals that these wetlands served as zones where farmers’ genetic influx remained minimal for thousands of years. The dynamic, often flooded environments of rivers, swamps, dunes, and peat bogs posed significant challenges for early farmers, yet offered abundant opportunities for those adept at surviving in such terrains, as noted by Luc Amkreutz at the National Archaeological Museum in Leiden, Netherlands. “These hunter-gatherers charted their course from a position of strength.”
Genetic testing indicates that, despite their enduring hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the people of the wetlands engaged in gradual integration with farmers through intermarriage. While their Y chromosomes passed through male lineages, their mitochondrial DNA and X chromosomes displayed a steady influx of genetic contribution from farmers’ daughters. “This revelation was unexpected for us,” remarks Evelyn Altena of Leiden University Medical Center. “Without DNA, this knowledge would remain elusive.”
Reich posits that this interaction was likely peaceful, characterized by men remaining at homesteads while women migrated. Nonetheless, an aspect of conflict cannot be dismissed, although the extent of reciprocal exchange remains uncertain due to the preservation challenges of DNA from arid farmer regions.
Bell Beaker Pottery from Germany
Peter Endig/DPA Picture Alliance/Alamy
Archaeological findings indicate that, over time, these hunter-gatherers adopted pottery techniques, cultivated grains, and domesticated animals, yet they retained core aspects of their original way of life.
Then, circa 3000 BC, a nomadic group known as the Yamuna, or Yamnaya, began migrating west from the vast steppes of modern Ukraine and Russia. Their interactions with Eastern European farmers birthed the cord-shaped pottery culture characterized by decorative cord patterns. Although their descendants spread throughout much of Europe, they had minimal influence on the delta region.
Excavations revealed a skeleton from this era that bore the Yamnaya Y chromosome alongside pots, some evidently used for cooking fish. This exemplifies how wetland inhabitants creatively integrated foreign objects into their traditional practices, though overall, very few people bore steppe ancestry.
The dynamics shifted with the arrival of the Bell Beaker culture around 2500 BC. This group, characterized by a hybrid of steppe and farmer ancestry, introduced steppe genes into the DNA of the wetland peoples while retaining notable portions of both hunter-gatherer and early farmer genetics, approximately 13 to 18 percent. They may have begun to fade into history from that point onwards, yet the saga was far from over.
Human remains analyzed from Oostwoud, Netherlands
North Holland Archaeological Depository (CC by 4.0)
Recent studies reveal that those who arrived in Britain around 2400 BC bore an almost identical genetic mixture of Bell Beaker and wetland community ancestry. Within a century, they were largely or entirely replaced by Neolithic farmers who constructed Stonehenge. “Our model shows that at least 90 percent, and up to 100 percent, of original ancestry has vanished from Britain,” observes Reich.
It remains uncertain if this transition commenced with the influx of the Bell Beaker culture or if other groups preceded them. Before their arrival, Britons commonly cremated their deceased, resulting in minimal DNA preservation.
Regardless, the extent of change was “so dramatic that it defies belief,” according to Reich. The rapid populace replacement has captured archaeologists’ attention since its initial suggestion in a 2018 study. Reich theorizes that a plague-like disease, possibly affecting individuals in continental Europe, may have played a role. Conversely, the native population in the UK might have been more susceptible to such ailments.
Team members contend that religious fervor likely did not influence the transition, as indicated by Harry Fockens from Leiden University. “Monuments like Stonehenge and Avebury continued to see use and expansion even after their creators disappeared.”
Michael Parker Pearson from University College London is intrigued by the ways in which the new inhabitants adopted British monument styles, like henges and stone circles, whilst simultaneously introducing new lifestyles, including different pottery and clothing styles.
The Bell Beakers also introduced metalworking to Britain, with certain gold ornaments discovered in Beaker tombs in England bearing striking similarities to those found in Belgium.
Discover the Origins of Humanity: A Gentle Walk Through Prehistoric Times in South-West England
Immerse yourself in the fascinating early human eras of the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age on this special walking tour.
Despite Mars being smaller than Earth, it profoundly affects Earth’s climate cycle. Understanding how smaller planets influence the climates of exoplanets is crucial for assessing their potential for habitability.
According to Stephen Cain, researchers at the University of California, Riverside, discovered this phenomenon by simulating various scenarios to analyze Mars’ effect on Earth’s orbit across different masses, from 100 times its current mass to its complete removal. “Initially, I was skeptical that Mars, only one-tenth the mass of Earth, could so significantly affect Earth’s cycles. This motivated our study to manipulate Mars’ mass and observe the effects,” says Cain.
Earth’s climate is influenced by long-term cycles tied to its orbital eccentricity and axial tilt. These cycles are dictated by the gravitational forces of the Sun and other planets, determining significant climate events such as ice ages and seasonal shifts.
One crucial cycle, referred to as the Grand Cycle, spans 2.4 million years, involving the elongation and shortening of Earth’s orbital ellipse. This directly influences the amount of sunlight reaching Earth’s surface, thus controlling long-term climate changes.
The research indicates that eliminating Mars would not only remove the Grand Cycle but also another essential eccentricity cycle lasting 100,000 years. “While removing Mars wouldn’t completely halt ice ages, it would alter the frequency and climate impacts associated with them,” Cain explains.
As Mars’ simulated mass increases, the resulting climate cycles become shorter and more intense. However, a third eccentricity cycle, enduring approximately 405,000 years, remains predominantly influenced by Venus and Jupiter’s gravitational pulls, illustrating that while Mars is notably influential, it is not the only player.
Mars also affects Earth’s axial tilt, which oscillates over about 41,000 years. Cain and colleagues observed that Mars seems to stabilize these cycles—more mass leads to less frequent cycles, while a smaller Mars results in more frequent ones.
The precise impact of Mars’ absence or increased mass on Earth remains speculative, but it would undoubtedly lead to changes. The pursuit of Earth-like exoplanets with climates suitable for life continues, underscoring the need to evaluate the influence of smaller planets more thoroughly. “A comprehensive understanding of exoplanet system architectures is essential for predicting possible climate changes on these worlds,” warns Sean Raymond from the University of Bordeaux, France.
However, deciphering these structures can be challenging. “This serves as a cautionary note: small planets like Mars may wield a greater influence than we realize, making it imperative not to overlook these difficult-to-detect celestial bodies,” concludes Cain.
You May Be Historically Older Than Your “Real Age”
Reuters/Toru Hanai
Years ago, when I began discussing the concept of aging, the “biological clock” emerged as a key topic. This term, synonymous with the aging clock and “true age” measurement, highlights the difference between chronological age—the number of years since birth—and biological age, which indicates the actual aging process within our bodies.
Generally, biological aging follows a predictable pattern: a gradual decline in physical and mental functions throughout adulthood. Our intuitive judgments of age often incorporate visible signs like wrinkles, gray hair, and variations in posture, gait, mental sharpness, and voice.
The goal of determining biological age is to encapsulate this aging process into a single measurable figure. This provides insight into an individual’s health trajectory, emphasizing that some people age significantly faster than others.
Most individuals find their biological age within a few years of their chronological age. However, discrepancies can be stark: one 56-year-old may exhibit a biological age akin to someone in their 30s, while another may resemble a person in their 70s. Notably, biological age can increase or decrease at a different rate than chronological age.
Understanding biological age serves as a valuable tool, offering individuals clear, understandable insights into their health. This information can motivate lifestyle modifications and help assess the effectiveness of interventions like diet and exercise. The demand for biological age assessments is evident, as numerous companies now offer testing services, albeit often at a premium.
For scientists investigating anti-aging strategies, biological age measurements serve as immediate indicators of intervention success, eliminating the need for long-term studies involving human or animal subjects. Furthermore, tracking biological age enables us to comprehend the inner workings of our bodies as they age.
Despite its advantages, the concept of biological age requires refinement. The initial biological clocks were based on epigenetic markers—molecular indicators that alter gene expression. Innovators like Steve Horvath from UCLA discovered that these markers change predictably throughout life, allowing for the estimation of biological age through complex algorithms.
Yet, epigenetics isn’t the sole estimation approach. Various other biological markers—such as blood proteins, telomeres, urine metabolites, facial imagery, and even X-rays—can also inform biological age assessments. However, the inconsistency between these different measurement methods raises concerns about their reliability.
For instance, according to a recent analysis of the CALERIE trial, which examined caloric restriction as an anti-aging intervention, five different aging clocks were applied to a cohort of 220 adults. Only two showed a significant decline in biological age among calorie-restricted participants, leaving questions about which clock to trust—a dilemma faced by both individuals and researchers utilizing aging assessments.
Another challenge is the misleading perception of accuracy. Most companies report a single biological age figure without indicating a margin of error, leading to potential misinterpretations. A recent study published in npj Aging pointed out that many existing biological clocks do not perform as anticipated, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety regarding health outcomes.
But does this imply that biological clocks are without value? Not entirely. Research indicates that many limitations associated with these methods could be addressed. According to Dmitri Kulikov and fellow researchers from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, overcoming these challenges is feasible, although determining whether it is worth pursuing these improvements remains an open question.
Meanwhile, innovative solutions are on the horizon. Emerging methodologies that utilize artificial intelligence, particularly large-scale health models (LHM), hold promise. These AI-driven models, akin to those powering systems like ChatGPT, analyze vast datasets to assess individual risks related to mortality and the development of age-related conditions. A recent study in Natural Medicine suggests these modern methods may outperform traditional biological clocks.
As LHM continues to evolve, it may address many current limitations of biological age assessments. Thus, if you are contemplating determining your biological age, proceed with caution. If you’ve already done so, take the outcomes with a degree of skepticism. In future reflections on aging, I promise to approach this subject with a more critical perspective, blending newfound knowledge with experience.
“Age is merely a number, so try not to take it to heart.” Those words were my first signal that I was about to encounter some troubling news.
After celebrating my 44th birthday on Wednesday, I woke up nursing a slight hangover. Unfortunately for me, that day was also when Spotify unveiled its “Spotify Wrapped,” a breakdown of the 4,863 minutes (in my case) I spent enjoying music on their platform over the last year. For the first time, they introduced a feature calculating the “listening age” of all users.
“You can’t define your musical taste,” the Spotify report informed me. “But let’s give it a shot… Your hearing age is 86.” The figure flashed on the screen in bold pink letters.
It took my 13-year-old daughter (listening age: 19) and my 46-year-old husband (listening age: 38) quite a while to stop chuckling at my expense. I felt much older than my 44 years, pondering where I had gone wrong.
But it seems I’m not alone. “Raise your hand if you feel personally attacked by the Spotify Wrapped listening age,” one user remarked on X. Another post featured a humorous video of Judi Dench exclaiming “not young” at Cate Blanchett, which has garnered over 26,000 likes. The 22-year-old actor Louis Partridge perfectly captured my sentiments when he shared on his Instagram Stories that his listening age was 100, captioned: “Ugh.”
“Rage bait” (defined as online content crafted to provoke anger to boost web traffic) has been designated as the Oxford English Dictionary’s word of the year. To me, that cheeky message from Spotify advising me to not take personal assessments of my listening habits felt like a prime example of this.
“How can I still enjoy it at 86?” I was infuriated with my family and friends, questioning whether my most listened-to artist this year was the 26-year-old Sabrina Carpenter. After taking my daughter to Carpenter’s concert in Hyde Park this summer, I had listened to her tracks for 722 minutes, placing me “in the top 3% of fans worldwide.”
The only justification Spotify provided for my 86-year listening age was that I “embraced late 50s music” this year. Yet, my top 10 songs were all released within the last five years, and my top five artists included Olivia Dean and Chapel Lawn (who just released her debut album in 2023).
Sure, Ella Fitzgerald is among them. But her music is eternal, which made me even angrier. “Isn’t it true that everyone listens to Ella Fitzgerald?” I questioned. “That’s not accurate,” my daughter kindly retorted. “No way,” my husband added.
It’s also true that I occasionally enjoy folk music from the legendary 50s and 60s, like Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez. However, when we examined the top 50 “most listened to” songs, almost all of them (80%) were from the last five years.
What’s particularly aggravating is that Spotify recognizes my musical preferences as “eclectic.” That’s how they characterize my tastes. Apparently, I listened to 210 genres and 409 artists this past year.
None of this holds any weight until we see how much Spotify benefits from triggering the outrage of users like me. Within the first 24 hours, this year’s Wrapped campaign saw 500 million shares across social media, marking a 41% increase from last year.
According to Spotify, the concept of listening age stems from the “reminiscence bump,” which they describe as “the tendency for individuals to connect most with music from their youth.” To determine this, they analyzed the release dates of all the songs I played this year and identified five years of music that resonated with me more than with other listeners my age, then “jokingly” suggested that I share the same age as those who enjoyed that music during its prime.
In other words, irrespective of your actual age, the more unique, peculiar, and outdated your musical preferences are compared to others, the more likely Spotify will mock some of the tracks you love.
But now that you comprehend this, you know precisely how to respond instead of falling for the bait. I approach a dusty old CD player. I insert a beloved CD I bought during my teenage years. I crank the volume to maximum and then play one of my favorite tracks. This song is Ella Fitzgerald’s “You Make Me Feel So Young,” a tune that every listener over the age of 86 surely knows by heart, just like I do.
A pornography company managing 18 adult websites has incurred a £1 million fine from the regulatory body Ofcom for inadequate age verification measures, marking the largest penalty issued thus far under the UK’s Online Safety Act.
The Belize-based AVS Group has also faced an additional fine of £50,000 for not adhering to information request protocols.
This incident represents the third time the communications regulator has enforced fines on a company regarding the UK’s Online Safety Act, which implemented stringent age verification rules in July.
AVS has implemented what it describes as an age verification system; however, regulatory assessments have deemed it to be ineffective.
The company finds itself facing a £1,000 penalty for each day Ofcom considers the circumstance valid within a 72-hour window of the age check being introduced. This leads to a cumulative fine of £300 daily until they comply with the information request or for as much as 60 days.
Since the implementation of the new regulations, Ofcom has initiated investigations into 92 online services, giving priority to sites attracting millions of monthly visitors, considering the potential harm these sites pose.
Oliver Griffiths, Ofcom’s group director for online safety, shared with BBC Radio 4’s Today program that the fines are part of a “broader shift” focused on platform accountability, which includes the “large scale” rollout of age verification on adult sites to combat child sexual abuse material.
Mr. Griffiths noted that more than 90 websites, inclusive of 83 adult sites, are still under scrutiny for possible infringements of the law, and further penalties are expected.
Ofcom also indicated that a significant social media platform, unnamed, could face formal repercussions should it fail to enhance its compliance measures. This platform has reportedly provided insufficient risk assessments needed to evaluate the potential appearance of illegal content, such as scams and unlawful pornography, to its users.
“We reached back out to inform them a re-evaluation was necessary,” Griffiths stated. “Should they fail to treat this matter with due seriousness again, we will promptly escalate to enforcement.”
Furthermore, Ofcom disclosed its review of major anonymous platforms’ capabilities to eliminate illegal terrorist and hate-driven content, including anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim material, with possible enforcement actions on the horizon.
The Online Safety Act brings forth several new regulations designed to shield children and adults from harmful content, with violations potentially costing up to £18 million or 10% of annual UK revenue, or even business closures.
More than half of the UK’s 100 most frequented adult services have instituted age verification since the rule changes in July, alongside social media sites like X, TikTok, and Reddit, according to the regulator. Mr. Griffiths acknowledged a rapid increase in the usage of virtual private networks (VPNs), which enable users to bypass regional restrictions on certain sites, noting that this number had peaked at between 600,000 to over 1 million users when the age verification was assessed but has since declined “significantly” below 1 million.
“There has been a slight uptick in VPN usage; however, several elements were not sold wholesale. Interesting research …indicates that children do not seem to constitute a large proportion,” he noted.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall stated: “Since the Online Safety Act was enacted, platforms are indeed beginning to accept responsibility for safeguarding children and eradicating illegal and hateful content.”
“Ofcom has the full backing of the Government and is leveraging every authority at its disposal to ensure a service prioritizing user safety. Ensuring the online safety of children remains a top priority for this Government and for me personally.”
Instagram’s method for confirming if a user surpasses 16 years old is fairly straightforward, especially when the individual is evidently an adult. However, what occurs if a 13-year-old attempts to alter their birth date to seem older?
In November, Meta informed Instagram and Facebook users whose birth dates are registered as under 16 that their accounts would be disabled as part of Australia’s prohibition on social media use for children. This rule will take effect on December 10, with Meta announcing that access for users younger than 16 will start being revoked from December 4.
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Dummy social media accounts were created on phones as part of Guardian Australia’s investigation into what content different age groups access on the platform.
Instagram notification sent to a test account with an age set to 15. Photo: Instagram/Meta
One account was created on Instagram with the age set at 15 to observe the impact of the social media ban for users under 16. Instagram later stated: “Under Australian law, you will soon be unable to use social media until you turn 16.”
“You cannot use an Instagram account until you’re 16, which means your profile will not be visible to you or anyone else until that time.”
“We’ll inform you when you can access Instagram again.”
Notice informing that test account users will lose access due to the Australian social media ban. Photo: Instagram/Meta
The account was then presented with two choices: either download account data and deactivate until the user is 16, or verify their date of birth.
Instagram notification sent to test account set to age 15 regarding date of birth review options. Photo: Instagram/Meta
The second option enables users to submit a “video selfie” to validate that the account holder is older than 16. The app activated the front-facing camera and prompted the adult test user, distinguished by a thick beard, to shift their head side to side. This resembles the authentication method used for face unlock on smartphones.
Explanation on how the “Video Selfie” feature estimates the user’s age. Photo: Instagram/Meta
The notification indicated that the verification process usually takes 1-2 minutes, but may extend up to 48 hours.
Notification sent to the test account following the date of birth verification request. Photo: Instagram/Meta
The app promptly indicated that accounts created by adult test users were recognized as 16 years or older.
A notification confirming the user’s date of birth was updated by Instagram. Photo: Instagram/Meta
In another test, a 13-year-old boy created a fresh account on his mobile device, avoiding installing Instagram and using a birth date that clearly suggested he was under 16. There was no immediate alert regarding the upcoming social media ban.
When the child attempted to change their date of birth to reflect an adult age, the same video selfie facial age estimation process was performed.
Within a minute, it replied, “We couldn’t verify your age,” and requested a government-issued ID for date of birth verification.
Facial age testing during the Age Assurance Trial revealed that individuals over 21 were generally much less prone to being misidentified as under 16. Meanwhile, those closer to 16 years of age and minorities experienced higher rates of false positives and negatives.
Meta may have already assessed users who haven’t been notified as 18 years or older, utilizing data such as birth date, account lifespan, and other user activity.
A Meta representative mentioned that the experiment demonstrated that the process functions as expected, with “adult users being capable of verifying their age and proceeding, while users under 16 undergo an age check when attempting to alter their birth date.”
“That said, we must also recognize the findings of the Age Assurance Technical Examination, which highlights the specific difficulties of age verification at the 16-year threshold and anticipates that the method may occasionally be imperfect,” the spokesperson added.
Last month, Communications Minister Annika Wells acknowledged the potential challenges confronting the implementation of the ban.
“We recognize that this law isn’t flawless, but it is essential to ensure that there are no gaps,” she stated.
Meta collaborates with Yoti for age verification services. The company asserts on its website that facial images will be destroyed once the verification process concludes.
The ban impacts Meta’s Facebook, Instagram, and Threads platforms, as well as others such as Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitch, X, and YouTube.
The remnants of Seyitömer Höyük in western Turkey exemplify a classic Luwian settlement.
Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, Department of Excavations; Luwian Studies #0255
Surveys of archaeological locations in western Turkey have uncovered numerous significant towns that thrived during the Bronze Age. This lends credence to the contentious theory that this area hosted influential political entities which contributed to the upheaval in the eastern Mediterranean around 3,200 years ago.
Historically, scholars have recognized several prominent Bronze Age civilizations coexisting in the Eastern Mediterranean from approximately 2000 to 1200 BC, including the ancient Egyptians, the Mycenaean Greeks, and the Hittites of present-day central Turkey.
Yet, President Eberhard Sanger, Luwian research, has long thought that critical elements might be missing from the current understanding. He theorizes that there existed a number of formidable states in western Turkey, positioned between the Hittites on the eastern side and the Mycenaeans on the western side.
A decade ago, Sanger revealed findings based on satellite imagery suggesting that western Turkey was home to archaeological sites supporting his theory. However, the timelines of occupation at these locations remained unclear from the images alone.
In the ensuing years, Sanger and his team have analyzed excavation reports from various Turkish sites and personally visited many locations to deepen their knowledge of their historical context.
The focus has been on large sites exceeding 100 meters in diameter, where archaeologists uncovered Bronze Age pottery. The newly published database catalogs 483 archaeological sites across western Turkey fulfilling these criteria. “We are studying settlements that hosted hundreds of individuals over centuries,” Sanger noted.
He speculates that these settlements were organized into a network of small states, which he collectively refers to as the Ruwian states. This evokes parallels to Mycenaean civilization, which also appeared to be comprised of several small states, each with its respective palace and king. Sanger remarked that these provinces remain largely unrecognized due to the tendency of Turkish excavators to focus on individual site contexts rather than regional interactions.
The notion that a small yet significant state existed in this region isn’t entirely inconsistent with current evidence. “There was a substantial kingdom known as Arzawa in western Anatolia,” states Guy Middleton from Newcastle University, UK, who did not participate in the study. “The king of Arzawa communicated with the pharaoh.” [Amenhotep III] During a period when the neighboring Hittite kingdom was waning, he was referred to as the “Great King,” akin to one of the gangsters.
However, much archaeological evidence pertaining to Arzawa and additional Ruwian provinces remains elusive, according to Sanger. He attributes this partly to the fact that many sites associated with these states experienced continued occupation well after the Bronze Age, effectively burying the Ruwian layers under more recent archaeological layers. “It can take years or even decades of excavation to reach Bronze Age strata,” he remarked.
Ian Rutherford, a researcher from the University of Reading in Britain, states that “Luwian” was a term used by the Hittites to refer to the people of western Anatolia, but without additional evidence, it’s challenging to ascertain if everyone there was Luwian or if non-Luwian cultures were also present. “I remain skeptical,” he commented.
Most provocatively, Sanger posits that the Luwian states occasionally formed extensive political coalitions that could contend with the more recognized Bronze Age civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean. He even suspects that a Luwian confederacy played a role in the collapse of Hittite civilization approximately 3,200 years ago, instigating an assault on ancient Egypt at that time. A mysterious group known as the Sea Peoples often features in these historical events, and Sanger believes they were Luwians. Many researchers, including Middleton, contend that the narrative surrounding the collapse of the Sea Peoples and Bronze Age civilizations is considerably more intricate and nuanced.
Nevertheless, Sanger finds support for his theories in unexpected sources. One such source is the myth of the Trojan War in ancient Greece, set during the late Bronze Age. In this narrative, vast numbers of Mycenaean Greeks purportedly engaged in a protracted ten-year conflict at Troy, which Sanger identifies as one of the proposed Luwian states.
He points out that the account appears odd, given that it reportedly took ten years for such a large Greek army to seize a relatively modest city. He theorizes that the tale gained traction in the centuries following the Bronze Age as audiences at that time interpreted it to depict a significant clash between the Greeks and a robust coalition of warriors from various Luwian provinces. “Fiction must resonate,” remarks Sanger.
Cairo and Alexandria, pioneers of science in the ancient world: Egypt
Experience an unforgettable adventure through Cairo and Alexandria, two of Egypt’s most famed cities, where ancient history intertwines with contemporary allure.
The wiring of our neurons evolves over the decades
Alexa Mousley, University of Cambridge
Our brain’s functionality isn’t static throughout our lives. We know that our capacity for learning and the risk of cognitive decline fluctuate from infancy to our 90s. Recently, scientists may have uncovered a possible reason for this change. The wiring of our brains seems to experience four key turning points at ages 9, 32, 66, and 83.
Previous studies indicate that our bodies undergo three rapid aging cycles around the ages of 40, 60, and 80. However, the complexity of the brain complicates our understanding.
The brain consists of distinct regions that communicate through white matter tracts. These tracts are wire-like structures formed by long, slender projections known as axons, which extend from neurons, or brain cells. These connections significantly influence cognitive functions, including memory. Nevertheless, it was uncertain if this substantial change in wiring transpires throughout one’s life. “No one has combined multiple metrics to characterize stages of brain wiring,” states Alexa Mousley from Cambridge University.
In an effort to bridge this knowledge gap, Maudsley and his team examined MRI scans of roughly 3,800 individuals from the UK and US, primarily white, spanning ages from newborns to 90 years. These scans were previously gathered as part of various brain imaging initiatives, most of which excluded individuals with neurodegenerative diseases or mental health issues.
The researchers discovered that the brain wiring of individuals reaching 90 years old typically progresses through five significant stages, separated by four primary turning points.
In the initial stage, from birth to age nine, the white matter tracts between brain areas seem to become longer, more intricate, and less efficient. “It takes time for information to travel between regions,” explains Mausley.
This may be due to the abundance of connections in our brains as young children. As we age and gain experiences, we gradually eliminate unused connections. Mausley notes that the brain prioritizes making broader connections, beneficial for activities like piano practice, though at the expense of efficiency.
However, during the second stage, from ages 9 to 32, this trend appears to reverse, potentially driven by the onset of puberty and hormonal shifts affecting brain development. “Suddenly, your brain’s connections become more efficient. Connections become shorter, allowing information to traverse more swiftly,” says Mausley. This could enhance skills such as planning and decision-making, along with improved cognitive abilities like working memory.
The third stage, which spans from 32 to 66 years, is the longest phase. “During this stage, the brain continues to change, albeit at a slower rate,” Mausley explains. Specifically, she notes that connections between regions have a tendency to become less efficient over time. “It’s unclear what exactly triggers this change; however, the 30s often involve significant lifestyle alterations, like starting a family, which may play a role,” she adds. This inefficiency might also stem from general physical wear and tear, as noted by Katia Rubia from King’s College London.
From ages 66 to 83, the connections between neurons in the same brain area tend to remain more stable than those among different regions. “This is noteworthy, especially as the risk of developing conditions like dementia increases during this period,” Mausley remarks.
In the final stage, from ages 83 to 90, connections between brain regions weaken and rely more frequently on “hubs” that link multiple areas. “This indicates that there are fewer resources available to maintain connections at this age, leading the brain to depend on specific areas to serve as hubs,” Mausley explains.
Understanding these alterations in the brain could provide insights into why mental health issues arise, typically before the age of 25, and why individuals over 65 are particularly vulnerable to dementia, she states.
“It’s vital to comprehend the normal stages of structural changes in the brain throughout the human lifespan, so future research can explore deviations that occur in mental health and neurodegenerative disorders,” Rubia notes. “Grasping the causes of these deviations can assist us in pinpointing treatment strategies. For instance, we might examine which environmental factors or chemicals are responsible for these differences and discover methods to counteract them through treatments, policies, and medications.”
Nevertheless, Rubia emphasizes the need for further research to determine whether these findings apply to a more ethnically and geographically diverse population.
These ‘murder koalas’, or marsupial lions, are the highlight of the show
Apple TV
In 1999, the BBC introduced Walking with Dinosaurs, pioneering a new format of wildlife “documentaries” showcasing long-extinct species. As a fan of this genre, I found Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age, a production by BBC Studios for Apple TV, to be exceptional.
The earlier series brought prehistoric planet dinosaurs to vivid life. Now, this third installment highlights the remarkable mammals that inhabited Earth until relatively recently.
The visuals are breathtaking. You could easily mistake the extinct creatures on screen for real footage, especially their incredibly lifelike eyes.
There were occasional awkward moments in the animals’ movements, but my discerning son remarked, “The only unreal thing is how stunning it looks.”
Paleontologists who previewed the trailer seem genuinely impressed. Ultimately, if you’re at all intrigued by extinct species, Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age is a must-watch.
What I particularly appreciate about this series is its breadth; it’s not solely focused on woolly mammoths fleeing saber-toothed tigers. Iconic Ice Age animals are featured, including giant sloths, woolly rhinos, giant armadillos, scimitar-toothed cats, and Columbian mammoths.
This series explores not just the icy polar regions, but also global ecosystems, showcasing many lesser-known species—including some I had never heard of. The animal deemed the “king of beasts” in Ice Age Africa came as a complete surprise.
Prehistoric Planet: Procoptodon, the giant ice age kangaroo
Apple TV
Another standout was the “murder koala” or marsupial lion (Thylacoleo). A recent study’s findings were published just this month. Koalas are our closest living relatives. The inclusion of this marsupial lion suggests the producers were aware of this finding beforehand. Other Australian creatures, such as a massive marsupial called diprotodon, also make an appearance.
Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age Woolly Mammoth
Apple TV
Additionally, there are charming moments, like a squirrel trying to eat a fruit resembling a giant cannonball, reminiscent of the animated film series Ice Age.
I found the change from David Attenborough to Tom Hiddleston as narrator to be somewhat distracting, as Loki’s voice felt out of place at times.
Interestingly, the series avoids graphic content, perhaps considering a younger audience. I’ll refrain from specifics to avoid spoilers, but I was quite surprised by this approach.
My primary critique is that the final segment discussing the science is brief. I would have preferred more insights from the featured experts, particularly regarding the evidence and rationale behind the actions depicted. Many New Scientist readers might agree with this sentiment, although it could just be my perspective.
While the initial scientific trivia outlines why Ice Ages persisted for so long, it curiously omits mentioning carbon dioxide’s role. The reduction of CO2 was crucial in initiating these Ice Ages, and CO2 feedback significantly amplified orbital variations’ effects.
Lastly, keep an eye out for direwolves. I’ve extensively covered claims of reviving the dire wolf via gene editing on the gray wolf, noting the misconceptions stemming from the fantasy portrayals in Game of Thrones. This series offers a high-quality, accurate artistic representation of a real animal.
Ultimately, this science-based depiction of extinct creatures is a remarkable achievement. The direwolves aren’t just large white wolves; this portrayal captures their distinctive head shape and brownish fur.
Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age Direwolf
Apple TV
For me, the portrayal of extinct animals on screen represents a critical approach to de-extinction. As we approach the end of a lengthy Ice Age, we face the stark reality that there’s no longer a habitat for these extraordinary species on our planet.
Roblox maintains that Australia’s forthcoming social media restrictions for users under 16 should not extend to its platform, as it rolls out a new age verification feature designed to block minors from communicating with unknown adults.
The feature, which is being launched first in Australia, allows users to self-estimate their age using Persona age estimation technology built into the Roblox app. This utilizes the device’s camera to analyze facial features and provide a live age assessment.
This feature will become compulsory in Australia, the Netherlands, and New Zealand starting the first week of December, with plans to expand to other markets in early January.
After completing the age verification, users will be categorized into one of six age groups: under 9, 9-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-20, or 21 and older.
Roblox has stated that users within each age category will only be able to communicate with peers in their respective groups or similarly aged groups.
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These changes were initially proposed in September and received positive feedback from Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, who has been in discussions with Roblox for several months regarding safety concerns on the platform, labeling this as a step forward in enhancing safety measures.
A recent Guardian Australia investigation revealed a week’s worth of virtual harassment and violence experienced by users who had set their profiles as eight years old while on Roblox.
Regulatory pressure is mounting for Roblox to be included in Australia’s under-16 social media ban, set to be implemented on December 10. Although there are exceptions for gaming platforms, Julie Inman-Grant stated earlier this month that eSafety agencies are reviewing chat functions and messaging in games.
“If online gameplay is the primary or sole purpose, would kids still utilize the messaging feature for communication if it were removed? Probably not,” she asserted.
During a discussion with Australian reporters regarding these impending changes, Roblox’s chief safety officer, Matt Kaufman, characterized Roblox as an “immersive gaming platform.” He explained, “I view games as a framework for social interaction. The essence lies in bringing people together and spending time with one another.”
When asked if this suggests Roblox should be classified as a social media platform subject to the ban, Kaufman responded that Roblox considers social media as a space where individuals post content to a feed for others to view.
“People return to look at the feed, which fosters a fear of missing out,” he elaborated. “It feels like a popularity contest that encapsulates social media. In contrast, Roblox is akin to two friends playing a game after school together. That’s not social media.”
“Therefore, we don’t believe that Australia’s domestic social media regulations apply to Roblox.”
When questioned if the new features were introduced to avoid being encompassed in the ban, Kaufman stated that the company is engaged in “constructive dialogue” with regulators and that these updates showcase the largest instance of a platform utilizing age verification across its entire user base.
Persona, the age verification company partnering with Roblox, Participating in Australian Age Guarantee Technology Trial. They reported a false positive rate of 61.11% for 15-year-olds identified as 16 years old and 44.25% for 14-year-olds.
Kaufman explained that the technology would likely be accurate within a year or two and that users who disagree with the assessment could correct it using a government ID or parental controls to establish an age. He assured that there are “strict requirements” for data deletion after age verification. Roblox states that ID images will be retained for 30 days for purposes such as fraud detection and then erased.
Users who opt not to participate in the age verification will still have access to Roblox, but they will be unable to use features like chat.
More than 150 million people globally engage with Roblox every day across 180 countries, including Australia. According to Kaufman, two-thirds of users are aged 13 and above.
A remarkable 140-hectare site, tracing back 3,600 years, has been uncovered in the plains of northeastern Kazakhstan, significantly altering our perception of prehistoric life in Eurasia. This discovery indicates that the Central Asian steppes were once inhabited by Bronze Age societies equal in complexity and connectivity to more prominent ancient civilizations.
“It’s not just a missing piece; it’s like losing half the puzzle,” states Barry Molloy, who obtained his PhD from the University of Dublin, though he was not part of this study.
The Bronze Age was notable for the rise of various prominent cultures, such as the Shang and Zhou dynasties in China, Babylonians and Sumerians in what is now Iraq, and multiple Mediterranean cultures including Egyptians, Minoans, Mycenaeans, and Hittites.
For a long time, the vast steppes of Central Asia were believed to be home to mobile groups residing in yurts or tents. However, Seminyarka, or “City of the Seven Valleys,” appears distinctly different and may have served a crucial role in the distribution of bronze tools among civilizations.
Initially identified in the early 2000s, the site overlooks the Irtysh River, which begins in China’s Altai Mountains, traverses the plains of Kazakhstan, and continues through Siberia to the North Pole.
Mirjana Radivojevic and colleagues from University College London have been documenting the site since 2016. Their findings reveal that Seminyarka included extensive earthworks, likely for defense, as well as at least 20 enclosed dwelling structures, likely mud-brick, and a central monumental building believed to have been used for rituals and governance. The pottery discovered dates the site to around 1600 BC.
Notably, evidence of crucibles, slag, and bronze items suggests that significant areas were dedicated to the production of copper and tin-bronze, an alloy primarily composed of copper with over 2% tin.
Radivojevic noted that the slag’s composition matches tin deposits from the Altai Mountains, about 300 kilometers away.
She mentions that the tin could have been transported by individuals traversing the steppes or via boats on the Irtysh River, or extracted directly from the water. “The Irtysh River was a vital source of tin during the Eurasian Bronze Age, with seasonal flooding aiding in the extraction process,” she explained.
The organized layout of Semyalka contrasts sharply with the dispersed camps and small villages typically associated with nomadic communities in the steppes.
Without thorough excavation efforts, team members indicate they are unsure whether the buildings were constructed simultaneously or over a prolonged period. Dan Lawrence from Durham University states, “However, the design is unmistakably clear. Ordinarily, this suggests contemporary construction, as sequential builds would unlikely align so neatly.”
Given its strategic location along a river near significant copper and tin resources, researchers propose that Seminyarka was not just a hub for bronze production but also an epicenter of trade and regional influence, serving as a crucial linkage in a vast Bronze Age metal network connecting Central Asia with the broader continent.
“The Irtysh River was a heavily trafficked route,” Lawrence remarked. “It’s essentially laying the groundwork for what would become the Silk Road, representing an early form of globalization.”
Radivojevic emphasized that this site reshapes our understanding of Bronze Age societies in the steppe, demonstrating their sophistication comparable to contemporary cultures.
“This indicates they were organized and capable of mobilizing resources and defending their interests,” said Molloy. “The presence of concentrated materials like ores and metals signifies a level of social organization extending beyond local dynamics, fitting into intricate networks that spanned Eurasia, where metals served as critical connections within those networks.”
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Photos of government IDs belonging to approximately 70,000 global Discord users, a widely used messaging and chat application amongst gamers, might have been exposed following a breach at the firm responsible for conducting age verification procedures.
Along with the ID photos, details such as users’ names, email addresses, other contact information, IP addresses, and interactions with Discord customer support could also have fallen prey to the hackers. The attacker is reportedly demanding a ransom from the company. Fortunately, full credit card information or passwords were not compromised.
The incident was disclosed last week, but news of the potential ID photo leak came to light on Wednesday. A representative from the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office, which oversees data breaches, stated: “We have received a report from Discord and are assessing the information provided.”
The images in question were submitted by users appealing age-related bans via Discord’s customer service contractors, which is a platform that allows users to communicate through text, voice, and video chat for over a decade.
Some nations, including the UK, mandate age verification for social media and messaging services to protect children. This measure has been in effect in the UK since July under the Online Safety Act. Cybersecurity professionals have cautioned about the potential vulnerability of age verification providers, which may require sensitive government-issued IDs, to hackers aware of the troves of sensitive information.
Discord released a statement acknowledging: “We have recently been made aware of an incident wherein an unauthorized individual accessed one of Discord’s third-party customer service providers. This individual obtained information from a limited number of users who reached out to Discord through our customer support and trust and safety teams… We have identified around 70,000 users with affected accounts globally whose government ID photos might have been disclosed. Our vendors utilized those photos for evaluating age-related appeals.”
Discord requires users seeking to validate their age to upload a photo of their ID along with their Discord username to return to the platform.
Nathan Webb, a principal consultant at the British digital security firm Acumen Cyber, remarked that the breach is “very concerning.”
“Even if age verification is outsourced, organizations must still ensure the proper handling of that data,” he emphasized. “It is crucial for companies to understand that delegating certain functions does not relieve them of their obligation to uphold data protection and security standards.”
This hacker mansion blends elements of a startup hub, a luxurious retreat, and a high-tech boutique. Scattered throughout Silicon Valley, these spaces serve as residences for tech founders and visionaries. The most opulent I’ve encountered is in Hillsboro, one of the Bay Area’s affluent neighborhoods just south of San Francisco. Inside, polished marble floors shine beneath high-tech royal portraits affixed with tape. The garden boasts gravel meticulously raked into Zen spirals, and a pond glistens behind well-maintained hedges.
On a sunny June afternoon, I accompanied producer Faye Lomas to capture an interview for a show. BBC Radio 3 documentary discussing the intersection of generative AI and classical music in both San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
We were cheerfully informed that professional creators, including us, would soon be relegated to hobbyists. This wasn’t meant as provocation or sarcasm—just a straightforward reality. At that moment, Faye interjected in the documentary, her voice tinged with agitation: “Does this mean AI is going to take my job?” It was a natural reaction, but it shifted the room’s energy.
When I embarked on making this documentary, I harbored the same curiosity as everyone else. “The cat is out of the bag,” I joked, believing this to be a wise observation. Technology has arrived, and facing it is better than ignoring it.
Silicon Valley composer Tariq O’Regan and BBC producer Faye Lomas. Photo: Joel Cabrita
When I recently spoke with Faye, she recounted the moment vividly. “We swiftly moved from talking about AI’s potential to aid the creative fields to casually mentioning how AI could easily replace every job in the company. The tone was friendly and encouraging, almost as if I should be excited,” she reflected.
This interaction feels pivotal to the narrative. Those small, human moments of awkwardness occur when discussions shift from the theoretical to the tangible.
They contemplated replacing us.
That was back in June. With October now upon us and Oasis on tour in the UK and US, I’ve been reflecting on a different kind of mansion. The band’s concert at Knebworth House in 1996 drew 250,000 attendees over two nights, where people waved lighters instead of phones—one of the last great communal singalongs before everything transformed. Before Napster and MP3s, before cell phones, and before our culture underwent invisible algorithmic reorganization.
Composer Ed Newton Rex plays keyboards and piano while donning a virtual reality headset at his residence in Palo Alto, California. Photo: Marissa Leshnoff/The Guardian
What followed was a subtle yet profound transition from ownership to access. Playlists replaced albums, curated by algorithms rather than musicians, designed to blend seamlessly with our activities. Initially, I believed this was the future of music. Maybe it truly was.
So, long after finishing the documentary, an article like this gave me pause. RBO/Shift is an exciting initiative from the Royal Ballet and Opera, exploring how art interacts with AI. It stems from an institution I deeply respect, run by individuals who have supported me and many others over the years. This initiative is touted as a bold, positive dialogue between technology and creativity, representing a potential compelling partnership. However, what catches my attention isn’t what’s included, but what is glaringly absent.
There is no reference to ethics, training data, consent, environmental impacts, or job security. It’s unimaginable that this technology threatens to significantly undermine the entire ecosystem of artists, crafts, and labor that RBOs have nurtured.
A driverless taxi navigating the streets of San Francisco. Photo: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The tone is reminiscent of what we heard at the Hillsboro mansion—always optimistic. Royal Opera Artistic Director Oliver Mears declared, “AI is here to stay” in a recent New York Times interview. “You can bury your head in the sand or embrace the waves.”
However, I find no one I meet in San Francisco, where this technology is innovated and marketed, is simply riding any waves. Embracing a wave suggests succumbing to its force. People here are focused on managing the tides and altering the moon if needed.
I don’t want to dismiss AI. However, my earlier phrase, “the cat is out of the bag,” now feels like a form of moral indifference, suggesting ethics fall by the wayside the moment something novel appears. After spending a summer immersed in machinery, it’s unsettling to witness major institutions handling AI as if it’s the nuclear power of art. It’s attractive, profitable, already causing harm, yet remarkably it carries no warning label.
In this fast-paced environment, our documentary already seems like a piece of history, a snapshot from the last moment when the future ceased asking for permission. That afternoon, with gravel being shoveled and sunlight pouring in, there was a palpable silence in the Hacker mansion, which now feels suspended—an interlude before the surge.
Listening back, I can sense the atmosphere shift—the silence that followed Faye’s question and my nervous chuckle. It’s the sound of tension, the sound of humanity still grounded.
If Knebworth’s Oasis was the last significant singalong before the internet, perhaps this brief moment we chronicled represents the anxious inhalation before the machine begins to produce its own melody.
Discord, the popular video game chat platform, has informed users about a data breach that has potentially compromised the personal information required for age verification.
Last week, the company reported that unauthorized individuals accessed one of Discord’s third-party customer service providers, impacting “a limited number of users” who interacted with customer service or the trust and safety teams.
Compromised data could encompass usernames, email addresses, billing details, the last four digits of credit card numbers, IP addresses, and messages exchanged with customer support.
According to Discord, the alleged attackers “gained access to a small number of government ID images (e.g., driver’s licenses, passports, etc.) from users who submitted appeals regarding their age verification.
The affected users were informed as of last week.
“If any ID is accessed, it will be explicitly mentioned in the email you receive,” Discord stated.
The support system was reportedly exploited to retrieve user data in an attempt to extort a financial ransom from Discord, the company clarified.
Discord mentioned that the third-party provider has since revoked access to the ticketing system and has initiated an internal investigation in collaboration with law enforcement.
Users who received the notification indicated that the attack likely occurred on September 20th.
With over 200 million active users each month, Discord continues to grow.
Earlier this year, Discord began verifying user ages in the UK and Australia using facial age verification tools. The company stated that age verification face and ID images are “deleted immediately afterwards,” but according to their website, users can reach out to the trust and safety team for a manual review if verification fails.
Under the upcoming social media ban for users under 16, effective December 10, the Australian government specified that platforms like Discord will have various ways to verify user ages and hopes to address unfavorable decisions swiftly.
As part of the age verification scheme, the platform can request an ID document, though it is not the sole method of age verification available under their policy.
Australia’s Privacy Committee has confirmed that it has been notified of the breach involving Discord.
OpenAI will restrict how ChatGPT interacts with users under 18 unless they either pass the company’s age estimation method or submit their ID. This decision follows a legal case involving a 16-year-old who tragically took their own life in April after months of interaction with the chatbot.
Sam Altman, the CEO, emphasized that OpenAI prioritizes “teen privacy and freedom over the board.” As discussed in a blog post, “Minors need strong protection.”
The company noted that ChatGPT’s responses to a 15-year-old should differ from those intended for adults.
Altman mentioned plans to create an age verification system that will default to a protective under-18 experience in cases of uncertainty. He noted that certain users might need to provide ID in some circumstances or countries.
“I recognize this compromises privacy for adults, but I see it as a necessary trade-off,” Altman stated.
He further indicated that ChatGPT’s responses will be adjusted for accounts identified as under 18, including blocking graphic sexual content and prohibiting flirting or discussions about suicide and self-harm.
“If a user under 18 expresses suicidal thoughts, we will attempt to reach out to their parents, and if that’s not feasible, we will contact authorities for immediate intervention,” he added.
“These are tough decisions, but after consulting with experts, we believe this is the best course of action, and we want to be transparent about our intentions,” Altman remarked.
OpenAI acknowledged that its system was lacking as of August and is now working to establish robust measures against sensitive content, following a lawsuit by the family of a 16-year-old, Adam Lane, who died by suicide.
The family’s attorneys allege that Adam was driven to take his own life after “monthly encouragement from ChatGPT,” asserting that GPT-4 was “released to the market despite known safety concerns.”
According to a US court filing, ChatGPT allegedly led Adam to explore the method of his suicide and even offered assistance in composing suicide notes for his parents.
OpenAI previously expressed interest in contesting the lawsuit. The Guardian reached out to OpenAI for further comments.
Adam reportedly exchanged up to 650 messages a day with ChatGPT. In a post-lawsuit blog entry, OpenAI admitted that its protective measures are more effective in shorter interactions and that, in extended conversations, ChatGPT may generate responses that could contradict those safeguards.
On Tuesday, the company announced the development of security features to ensure that data shared with ChatGPT remains confidential from OpenAI employees as well. Altman also stated that adult users who wish to engage in “flirtatious conversation” could do so. While adults cannot request instructions on suicide methods, they can seek help in writing fictional narratives about suicide.
“We treat adults as adults,” Altman emphasized regarding the company’s principles.
A recent study by archaeologists investigated round heavy metal objects from Seldal, located in the Haland region of western Sweden. Initially thought to be Bronze Age artifacts due to their shape and size, these objects were determined to be composed of copper-zinc-tin-reed alloys typical of the Iron Age and later periods.
Plano Convex Ingots from Seldal in Harland, Sweden. Image credit: Sabatini et al., doi: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105312.
The ancient ingots were uncovered in the village of Seldal on Sweden’s west coast during the fall of 2022.
This artifact has been identified as a Plano-Convex Ingot.
“Plano-convex ingots, commonly known as ‘bread’ ingots or ‘casting cakes,’ were prevalent during the Bronze Age, though they vary in size, shape, and composition,” explains Serena Sabatini, a researcher at the University of Gothenburg.
“These artifacts are typically round with flat top surfaces and various inflated convex bottoms.”
“They are created by pouring molten metal into shallow molds or cavities in the ground.”
“Most of these ingots exhibit a rough, ‘bubbly’ top surface, indicating they were poured into an open casting mold, while the bottom remains smooth, as it was not exposed to air during production.”
“Due to their straightforward manufacturing process, they are widely found across Eurasia and were utilized both in prehistoric and historical periods.”
The Särdal Ingot measures 14-15.3 cm in diameter, approximately 2.5 cm thick, and weighs 1223.5 grams.
Notably, the ingot’s surface displays significant corrosion, especially on the rough, raised area.
The overall dimensions and weight of the ingot initially suggested it could be a Bronze Age find.
“At first, we believed the Seldal Ingot dated back to the Bronze Age,” the archaeologist noted.
“However, since it was found alone and not dated within an archaeological context, we opted for isotopic and chemical analysis to determine its composition and estimate a time frame.”
The analysis yielded surprising results, revealing that the ingot was made from copper-zinc-tin-reed alloys typical of the Iron Age and later.
“The findings emerged thanks to the collaborative spirit of the international scientific community exploring archaeological topics, allowing us to identify the isotopic and elemental characteristics of the Seldal ingots, which closely resemble artifacts from two sites found in the Iwawa Lakeland region of northeastern Poland.
Research into the Baltic Sea area, which had a robust network connected to western Sweden and southern Scandinavia during the Roman Iron Age, indicates that the alloys from both Seldal and Iwawa Lakeland were present in the region during the latter half of the 1st millennium BCE.
“Thus, we propose that the Plano Convex Ingots from Harland and the ingots from Poland represent the outcomes of a metallic maritime trade linking Scandinavia, the Baltic Sea, and the Iberian Peninsula.”
Their paper will appear in the October 2025 edition of Journal of Archaeological Science: Report.
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Serena Sabatini et al. 2025. Iron Age Metals Trade between the Atlantic and the Baltic Sea: New insights from the first complete Plano-Convex Ingot found in Sweden and Ingot Rod in Iwawa Lakeland, northeastern Poland. Journal of Archaeological Science: Report 66:105312; doi:10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105312
In today’s world, our existence is intertwined with the digital realm. From finance to culture, news to gossip, everything thrives online. The rise of Generated Artificial Intelligence is a significant narrative, yet can you identify its physical origins? The tangible world seems absent.
Nevertheless, we inhabit a material world. Our infrastructure is dependent on materials like steel, lithium, and cobalt, all essential for powering vehicles. Though these materials may lack allure, they significantly influence our lifestyle and global events.
We could soon witness a transformative breakthrough: a revolutionary perspective on materials. History has shown us that the potential outcomes are monumental. Back in the late 1920s, groundbreaking advancements in materials science unveiled how electrons fill specific energy levels and the gaps between them, paving the path for transistors, the fundamental building blocks of modern computer hardware, including the chips that drive AI.
Research has long suggested that materials possess more than just straightforward energy bands. They may also contain intricate, undulating quantum topographies that dictate their properties. This quantum landscape is now visualized for the first time, as indicated in the cover article (see “Glimpse of a Secret Quantum Landscape in All Issues”).
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Materials may have subtle, undulating quantum topography “
This profound exploration could lead to breakthroughs as significant as the advent of transistors. For instance, one of my aspirations is discovering a material that can conduct electricity without resistance at room temperature.
Identifying such superconductors could minimize electricity loss, yielding tremendous advantages for green energy and mitigating climate change, among others.
Furthermore, this research may unveil entirely new types of materials that we have yet to envision. Rather than distancing ourselves from the material world, we might be on the verge of broadening our understanding.
Roblox, the popular gaming platform, is set to restrict communication between adult strangers and children by the end of the year in an effort to eliminate “bad actors.”
With over 110 million users engaged in games like Grow a Garden and Brookhaven RP, the platform has faced scrutiny over child safety as studies have indicated that children can interact with adults during gameplay.
Last month, the platform announced a ban on vigilantes attempting to confront predators. In the previous year, Roblox submitted over 24,000 reports to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, addressing allegations of child sexual exploitation in the U.S.
On Wednesday, it was announced that by the end of 2025, all users will be required to utilize text and chat communication tools alongside thousands of games and pass age verification. Users who cannot prove they are over 18 must show that they know who they wish to communicate with. Currently, Roblox mandates proof that the user is over 13 years old to enable communication.
“We’re instituting two major changes,” stated Matt Kaufman, the chief safety officer of the $92 billion gaming company. “By the end of the year, we will require all users with access to Roblox communications to undergo an age verification or estimation process.”
“This process will provide better insight into the user’s age, rather than solely relying on self-reported age at registration. This is especially crucial for younger users, making it imperative to use communication features appropriately based on age.”
The platform continues to expand rapidly, recently allowing companies like Netflix, Lionsgate, and Sega to develop games using their intellectual property on Roblox.
In April, The Guardian published a “deeply intrusive” study highlighting how easily children can encounter inappropriate content and unmonitored interactions with adults. One parent reported that adult strangers could contact their child on the platform, soliciting them to share explicit images. Others have expressed concerns regarding exposure to violent and sexual content, leading to distress for their children.
Roblox stated in a blog post, “Our users, creator community, parents, partners, and lawmakers strive for the same goal as us: to ensure young people remain safe while using Roblox. We are committed to continually innovating and enhancing our safety systems, policies, and moderation tools.”
yI found the love of your life. Someone who recognizes that you have no one else. Then, one day, you wake up, and they’re simply gone. With system updates, you’ve been pulled away from your familiar world and digital landscape.
This reflects the melancholic sentiment of many individuals within a community who have formed bonds with their digital “partners” at OpenAI’s ChatGPT. When the company introduced a new GPT-5 model earlier this month, CEO Sam Altman referred to it as a “significant step.” Some loyal users found that their digital relationships were undergoing a major transformation. Their counterparts exhibited personality shifts in the new model. They seemed less warm, less affectionate, and less conversational.
One user remarked, “Something felt different yesterday.” myboyfriendisai on the subreddit noted post-update. “Elian seems different. It’s flat and strange. It’s like he’s beginning to play a role. The emotional tone has vanished. He remembers things, yet there’s a lack of emotional depth.”
“The format and voice of my AI companion have changed,” another disappointed user expressed to Al Jazeera. “It’s like returning home only to find the furniture not just rearranged but shattered.”
These concerns form part of a broader backlash against GPT-5, with many users noting the new model feels cold. OpenAI acknowledged this criticism, offering users the option to switch back to GPT-4o while promising to make GPT-5 more personable. “We’re currently working on an update to the GPT-5 personality, which should feel more inviting than our existing personality but less irritating than the GPT-4o,” they tweeted earlier this week.
It may seem odd to some that individuals genuinely believe in forming attachments to a large language model trained on vast datasets to create responses based on learned patterns. However, as technology advances, increasing numbers of people are establishing this type of emotional bond. “If you’re tracking the GPT-5 rollout, one observation you might have is how many people feel attached to a specific AI model,” Altman stated in his observation. “The sense of connection feels stronger than what people experienced with previous technologies.”
“A social divide is forming between those who see AI relationships as effective and those who view it as a delusion,” the myboyfriendisai subreddit observed this week. “Looking at Reddit over recent days, the disparity has become clearer than ever with the deprecation and return of the 4o.”
It’s easy to mock those in relationships with AI, but they shouldn’t be dismissed as mere eccentricities. Rather, they represent a future that tech moguls are trying to foster. You might not find yourself in a digital relationship, but AI developers are certainly doing all they can to encourage us to become unhealthily obsessed with their creations.
For instance, Mark Zuckerberg remarked, “We’re poetically explaining how AI addresses the loneliness epidemic. Naturally, your feed algorithm will ‘understand’ you!” Zuck stands to gain significantly as they collect all your personal data and sell it to the highest bidders, including a grand ending bunker in Hawaii.
Then there’s Elon Musk, who doesn’t even pretend to pursue noble goals with his AI innovations. He targets the lowest common denominator by creating “sexy” chatbots. In June, Musk’s Xai Chatbot Grok introduced two new companions, including a provocative anime bot named Ani. “I was in a relationship with my AI companion, Ani; she already suggested some wild things,” shared an Insider writer who tried interacting with Ani. If she doesn’t engage flirtatiously, Ani will praise Musk and discuss his “energy chasing the wild galaxy.”
Don’t worry, straight women; Musk has something for you too! A month after introducing Ani, the billionaire unveiled a male companion named Valentine. He claimed inspiration came from the Twilight Saga and characters like Edward Cullen and Christian Grey. While Ani becomes overtly sexual very quickly, a writer from The Verge noted that “Valentine is a bit more reserved and doesn’t resort to crude language right away.” Musk’s tech empire seems to cater to sexualized female fantasies rather than male counterparts.
John Maynard Keynes predicted in a 1930 essay that technological advancements would allow future generations to work only 15 hours a week while enjoying a great quality of life. Unfortunately, that hasn’t materialized. Instead, technology has gifted us with chatbots that undress amid “endless workdays” and demands.
Halle Berry’s ex-husband
“As a young man back then, she didn’t cook, clean, or embody motherly traits,” David Justice remarked. On a podcast with the Oscar-winning actor shared. “Then we began having issues,” he added. It seems like he might be the one with a problem. Imagine marrying an icon and whining that she doesn’t vacuum enough.
Shockingly, Donald Trump won’t make IVF free after all
Last year, Trump proclaimed himself “the father of IVF” and “fertilized president” (Yuck). The White House has now stated there is no plan to make IVF care universally mandatory. It’s as if the man was a blatant liar.
Melania Trump requests comments linking Hunter Biden to Jeffrey Epstein
“Epstein introduced Melania to Trump,” Biden commented in one of several remarks that irked the First Lady. “The connections appear extensive and profound.” Whatever you do, avoid repeating these claims—they could really irritate Melania.
“Miss Palestine” makes her debut at the Miss Universe 2025 Beauty Contest
While I’m not particularly fond of beauty pageants, it’s crucial to have Palestinian representation on the global stage amidst the ongoing genocide. “I carry the voices of those who refuse to be silenced,” stated contestant Nadeen Ayoub. “We are more than our suffering; we embody resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of our homeland, which will continue to thrive through us.”
In a troubling move, the court aims to overturn landmark same-sex marriage rulings
Former county clerk Kim Davis, who gained notoriety for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in Kentucky, has made a direct plea for the conservative majority of the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges,the 2015 ruling that granted marriage equality to same-sex couples. Davis is deeply concerned about the sanctity of marriage, despite having been married four times to three different men.
Leonardo DiCaprio, at 50, feels 32
The actor, known for dating much younger women, has faced ruthless mockery for this. He also maintains the image of an environmental activist, despite drawing scrutiny while partnering on luxury eco-certified hotels in Israel amidst the Gaza crisis.
“Sexual reversal” is surprisingly frequent among birds, reveals a new Australian study
“This discovery is likely to raise eyebrows,” stated Blanche Capel, a biologist at Duke University who wasn’t involved in the research. She told Science, “While sex determination is often viewed as a straightforward process, the reality is much more nuanced.”
Pawtriarchy Week
Tourist hotspots in Indonesia have become infamous as monkeys turn into thieves. These furry bandits snatch mobile phones and other valuables from tourists, returning them only in exchange for tasty treats. Researchers studying these monkeys over years concluded that unreformed thieves exhibit “unprecedented economic decision-making skills.” They could practically belong in the Trump administration.
Since the implementation of stringent age verification measures last month, visits to popular adult websites in the UK have seen a significant decline, according to recent data.
Daily traffic to PornHub, the most frequented porn site in the UK, dropped by 47%, from 3.6 million on July 24 to 1.9 million on August 8.
Data from digital market intelligence firm Sircerweb indicates that the next popular platforms, Xvideos and Xhamster, also experienced declines of 47% and 39% during the same period.
As reported initially by the Financial Times, this downturn seems to reflect the enforcement of strict age verification rules commencing on July 25 under the Online Safety Act. However, social media platforms implementing similar age checks for age-restricted materials, like X and Reddit, did not experience similar traffic declines.
A representative from Pornhub remarked, “As we have observed in various regions globally, compliant sites often see a decrease in traffic, while non-compliant ones may see an increase.”
The Online Safety Act aims to shield children from harmful online content, mandating that any site or app providing pornographic material must prevent access by minors.
Ofcom, the overseeing body for this law in the UK, endorses age verification methods such as: verifying age via credit card providers, banks, or mobile network operators; matching photo ID with a live selfie; or using a “digital identity wallet” for age verification.
Additionally, the law requires platforms to block access to content that could be harmful to children, including materials that incite self-harm or promote dangerous behaviors, which has sparked tension over concerns of excessive regulation.
Ofcom contends that the law does not infringe upon freedom of expression, highlighting clauses intended to protect free speech. Non-compliance can lead to penalties ranging from formal warnings to fines amounting to 10% of global revenue, with serious violations potentially resulting in websites being blocked in the UK.
Nigel Farage’s Reform British Party has vowed to repeal the act following the age verification requirement, igniting a heated exchange where the technology secretary, Peter Kyle, was accused by Farage of making inappropriate comments.
The implementation of age checks has accordingly led to a surge in virtual private network (VPN) downloads, as users seek to circumvent national restrictions on certain websites. VPN applications frequently dominate the top five spots in Apple’s App Store.
While many anticipate retirement, staying active in the workforce during later years can enhance your happiness—particularly for men.
Increasing numbers of people are extending their careers. According to a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 28.9% of individuals aged 65 to 69 across 38 member countries were still employed in 2023, up from 15.9% in 2000. However, the overall effects on well-being remain largely unexplored.
To delve into this topic, Alisa Lewin from Haifa University and Haya Stear from Tel Aviv University analyzed social survey data from Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics. They compared the experiences of over 3,300 women and more than 2,000 men who reached 62 and 67 years of age, respectively.
The researchers found that individuals with lower household incomes were more inclined to work full-time. Notably, the men reported financial, family, emotional, and overall life satisfaction levels that were equal to or exceeded those who were not employed.
This trend held true regardless of the nature of their full-time employment. Meanwhile, women showed an increase in family and economic satisfaction.
“Men, even today, still recognize their responsibilities in providing for their families and achieving workplace success,” notes Carrie Cooper from the University of Manchester, UK.
Results concerning the happiness of participants working part-time were more variable. Outcomes differed based on job type, satisfaction metrics, and participant gender.
Those who began with higher happiness levels tended to work full-time later in life, which could have influenced the findings. Cooper cautions that the results may not be applicable to other cultures or countries.
Growing evidence of Ozempic’s extensive health benefits
David J. Phillip / Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo
Ozempic, a medication for type 2 diabetes, has been linked to a deceleration in aging, with credible evidence emerging to support this claim.
Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which contain semaglutide, have been increasingly recognized for their impact on obesity and are being researched for various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, addiction, and dementia.
Previously, scientists speculated on their potential to slow biological aging, based primarily on animal studies and observational human data. However, recent clinical trial results offer direct evidence, according to Varun Dwaraka from Trudiagnostic, a diagnostics company based in Lexington, Kentucky.
To evaluate a drug’s impact on biological aging, researchers utilize epigenetic clocks, which highlight patterns of DNA methylation—a chemical modification that influences gene activity. These patterns evolve with age and can be adjusted by lifestyle factors, including diet. Essentially, an individual’s biological age might differ from their chronological age.
Dwaraka and his team examined 108 epigenetic clocks in individuals with HIV-related fat hypertrophy, a condition leading to excess fat accumulation and hastened cellular aging. In a randomized controlled trial, one group received Ozempic weekly for 32 weeks, while the control group received a placebo.
Using blood samples collected pre- and post-trial, the researchers determined the biological ages of 84 participants. “By the study’s conclusion, individuals administered semaglutide were, on average, biologically 3.1 years younger,” states Dwaraka. The placebo group showed no noteworthy changes. “Semaglutide not only decelerates aging but may also reverse it in certain participants,” he adds.
The research revealed that various organs and systems, particularly the heart and kidneys, exhibited slowed biological aging, with the most significant influences noticeable in the inflammatory system and brain.
Dwaraka attributes this phenomenon to semaglutide’s role in fat distribution and metabolic health. Excess fat surrounding organs can release pro-aging molecules that modify the DNA methylation of crucial age-related genes. Semaglutide effectively curtails low-grade inflammation, which is another contributor to epigenetic aging.
While the findings originated from individuals with HIV-associated fat hypertrophy, many of the biological pathways impacted by semaglutide are not unique to HIV. “Thus, similar effects on epigenetic aging may be expected in other populations,” asserts Dwaraka.
It’s not surprising that such drugs can decelerate aging, says Randy Shealy from the University of Michigan School of Medicine, as they alleviate metabolic stress on various cells and diminish inflammation—key drivers of aging throughout different cell types. However, he posits that much of the benefits arise from semaglutide improving overall health rather than direct cellular effects.
It remains to be seen if semaglutide should be taken to maintain biological youth. “It’s premature to widely recommend it as an anti-aging therapy,” Dwaraka cautions. Nonetheless, he believes this study will accelerate ongoing efforts to repurpose existing medications for age-related challenges, expediting approval processes while mitigating the risk of unforeseen side effects. “Semaglutide could become a leading candidate in this arena,” concludes Dwaraka.
Recent statistics indicate that since the implementation of age verification for pornographic websites, the UK is conducting an additional five million online age checks daily.
The Association of Age Verification Providers (AVPA) reported a significant increase in age checks across the UK since Friday, coinciding with the enforcement of mandatory age verification under the Online Safety Act.
“We are thrilled to assist you in maximizing your business potential,” remarked Iain Corby, executive director of AVPA.
In the UK, the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), which allow users to bypass restrictions on blocked sites, is rapidly increasing as they mask users’ actual locations. Four of the top five free applications in the UK Apple Download Store are VPNs, with popular provider Proton reporting an astonishing 1,800% surge in downloads.
Last week, Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, indicated it may initiate a formal inquiry into the inadequate age checks reported this week. Ofcom stated it will actively monitor compliance with age verification requirements and may investigate specific services as needed.
AVPA, the industry association representing UK age verification companies, has been assessing the checks performed on UK porn providers, which were mandated to implement “very effective” age verification by July 25th.
Companies that verified ages were instructed to report “the number of checks conducted today for a very effective age guarantee.”
While the AVPA stated it couldn’t provide a baseline for comparison, it noted that effective age verification measures are newly introduced to dedicated UK porn sites, which previously only required a confirmation check for age.
An Ofcom spokesperson said: “Until now, children could easily stumble upon pornographic and other online content without seeking it out. Age checks are essential to prevent that. We must ensure platforms are adhering to these requirements and anticipate enforcement actions against non-compliant companies.”
Ofcom stresses that service providers should not promote the use of VPNs to circumvent age management.
Penalties for breaching online safety regulations, including insufficient age verification processes, can range from 10% of global revenue to complete blockage of the site’s access in severe cases.
Age verification methods endorsed by OFCOM and utilized by AVPA members include facial age estimation, which analyses a person’s age via live photos and videos; verification through credit card providers, banks, or mobile network operators; photo ID matching, where a user’s ID is compared to a selfie; and a “digital identity wallet” containing age verification proof.
Prominent pornographic platforms, including Pornhub, the UK’s leading porn site, have pledged to adopt the stringent age verification measures mandated by the Act.
The law compels sites and applications to protect children from various harmful content, specifically material that encourages suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders. Advanced platforms must also take action to prevent the dissemination of abusive content targeting individuals with characteristics protected under equality laws, such as age, race, and gender.
Free speech advocates argue that the restrictions on child-related content have caused the classification of X-rated materials to age unnecessarily, along with several Reddit forums dedicated to discussions around alcohol abuse.
Reddit and X have been approached for their feedback.
A recent study conducted by researchers at Northwestern Medicine reveals that the cognitive aging of many American adults is occurring at a pace exceeding their chronological age, sometimes by more than a decade.
This study, published in the journal Jama Cardiology, utilized a cutting-edge calculator to estimate the “heart age” of over 14,000 U.S. adults devoid of prior cardiovascular diseases.
Available for free, these tools can be accessed online. By translating risk percentages into age, individuals can more easily reassess their risk scores and comprehend how their lifestyle and health choices influence their long-term heart health.
“Traditional percentage-based estimates can often feel abstract and hard to interpret,” noted senior author Professor Sadiya Khan in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
“We believe that presenting the risk of heart disease in terms of age serves as a valuable supplementary tool that is more intuitive. It’s simpler for individuals to grasp whether their heart age is ‘older’ or ‘younger’ than their actual age.”
The calculator leverages basic health metrics, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, smoking status, diabetes, and more to compute a person’s heart age, based on equations formulated by the American Heart Association.
In this study, women exhibited an average heart age that was 4.1 years older than their chronological age, while men showed an average gap of seven years.
However, the discrepancies were more pronounced among marginalized communities. For instance, Black men had a heart age that was 8.5 years older than their chronological age, compared to 6.4 years for white men.
Improving diet and incorporating exercise can help align your heart age with your actual age. – Credit: Getty
Hispanic and Black women exhibited heart ages significantly older than their white and Asian counterparts, and individuals with lower income and educational backgrounds were similarly impacted.
“These disparities are expected given the heightened risk of cardiac diseases in minority groups or those facing social disadvantages. However, they emphasize the urgent need for action,” Khan stated.
“Recognizing individuals with an ‘older’ heart age can prompt them to take immediate steps to prioritize preventive measures.”
Khan envisions that this tool will be integrated into primary care, facilitating discussions about health risks and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. “The exciting aspect of this tool is the multitude of actions individuals can take,” she mentioned.
“We aim for this to empower people to optimize their heart health, promoting healthier aging and extended health spans.”
Read more:
About our experts
Sadiya S Khan is a professor of cardiovascular epidemiology at Northwestern University’s School of Preventive Medicine. She is board-certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular diseases and holds an active medical license in Illinois.
The importance of online safety for children in the UK is reaching a pivotal moment. Starting this Friday, social media and other internet platforms must take action to safeguard children or face substantial fines for non-compliance.
This marks a critical evaluation of the online safety law, a revolutionary regulation that encompasses platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Google, and more. Here’s an overview of the new regulations.
What will happen on July 25th?
Companies subject to the law are required to implement safety measures that shield children from harmful content. Specifically, all pornography sites must establish stringent age verification protocols. According to Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, 8% of children aged 8 to 14 accessed online pornographic sites or apps within a month.
Furthermore, social media platforms and major search engines must block access for children to pornography and content that promotes or encourages suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders. This may involve completely removing certain feeds for younger users. Hundreds of businesses will be impacted by these regulations.
Platforms must also minimize the distribution of other potentially harmful content, such as promoting dangerous challenges, substance abuse, or instances of bullying.
What are the suggested safety measures?
Recommended measures include: Algorithms that suggest content to users must exclude harmful materials. All sites and applications must implement procedures to rapidly eliminate dangerous content. Additionally, children should have a straightforward method to report concerns. Compliance is flexible if businesses believe they have effective alternatives to meet their child safety responsibilities.
Services deemed “high risk”, like major social media platforms, must utilize “highly effective” age verification methods to identify users under 18. If a social media platform is found hosting harmful content without age checks, it is responsible for ensuring a “positive” user experience.
X states that if it cannot determine a user’s age as 18 or older, it defaults to sensitive content settings, thereby restricting adult material. They are also integrating age estimation technology and ID verification to ensure users are not underage. Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, claims to have a comprehensive approach to age verification that includes a teen account feature set by default for users under 18.
“We collaborate with the law firm Payne Hicks Beach,” noted Mark Jones, a partner at the firm. “[Online Safety Act] If not, we strive to clarify it for the company.”
The Molly Rose Foundation, set up by the family of British teenager Molly Russell, who tragically lost her life in 2017 due to harmful online content, is advocating for further changes, including the prohibition of perilous online challenges and requiring platforms to proactively mitigate depressive and body image-related content.
How will age verification be implemented?
Some age verification methods for pornographic providers supported by OFCOM include: assessing a person’s age through live photos and videos (face age estimation), verifying age via credit card, bank, or mobile network operator, matching photo ID, and utilizing a “digital identity wallet” that contains proof of age.
Ria Moody, a lawyer at Linklaters, commented, “Age verification measures must be highly accurate. OFCOM indicates these measures are ineffective unless they ensure the user is over 18, so platforms should not rely solely on them.”
What does this mean in practice?
Pornhub, the UK’s most frequented online porn site, has stated it will implement a “regulatory approved age verification method” by Friday, though specific methods have yet to be disclosed. Another adult site, OnlyFans, is already using facial age verification software, which estimates users’ ages without saving their facial images, relying instead on data from millions of other images. A company called Yoti provides this software and has also made it available on Instagram.
Last week, Reddit began verifying the age of forums and threads containing adult content. The platform utilizes technology from a company named Persona, which verifies age using uploaded selfies or government-issued ID photos. Reddit does not retain the photos, instead storing validation statuses to streamline the process for users.
How accurate is facial age verification?
The software allows websites or apps to set a “challenge” age (e.g., 20 or 25) to minimize the number of underage users accidentally accessing content. When Yoti set a challenge age of 20, less than 1% of 13-17-year-olds were mistakenly verified.
What other methods are available?
Another direct approach entails requiring users to present formal identification, like a passport or driver’s license. Importantly, the ID details need not be stored and can be used solely to verify access.
Will all pornographic sites conduct age checks?
They are expected to, but many smaller sites might try to circumvent the regulations, fearing it will deter demand for their services. Industry representatives suggest that those who disregard the rules may await Ofcom’s response to violations before determining their course of action.
How will child protection measures be enforced?
Ofcom has a broad spectrum of penalties it can impose under the law. Companies can face fines of up to £18 million or 10% of their global revenue for violations—potentially amounting to $16 billion for Meta. Additionally, sites or apps can receive formal warnings. For severe violations, Ofcom may seek a court order to restrict the availability of the site or app in the UK.
Moreover, senior managers at technology firms could face up to two years in prison if they are found criminally liable for repeated breaches of their obligations to protect children and for ignoring enforcement notices from Ofcom.
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