Slowdown of Major Ocean Currents in the Atlantic: Key Insights and Implications

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Visualization of the Western Boundary Current in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation

Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio

The latest buoy measurements indicate that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), crucial for regulating Europe’s climate, is weakening across four distinct latitudes. This represents the strongest evidence yet that this pivotal ocean current system is slowing and may be nearing collapse.

The AMOC is part of a global oceanic conveyor belt that transports warm, salty water from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, helping maintain milder temperatures in Western Europe compared to those in Canada or Russia. As this water cools and sinks, it continues south along the ocean floor on the western side of the Atlantic.

Analysis of historical ocean temperature data suggests a 15% decline in the AMOC since 1950, with computer models predicting a potential closure within decades. However, direct measurements have only been reliable for roughly 20 years, making definitive conclusions difficult.

Recent research in the Western Atlantic has provided compelling evidence of an AMOC slowdown.

“Our findings indicate that Atlantic circulation is indeed weakening at the western boundary, and data from multiple latitudes supports this consistent signal across the broader North Atlantic,” said Qianjiang Xing from the University of Miami, Florida, who led the study.

In 2004, a collaborative effort led by the University of Miami established a series of moorings named RAPID-MOCHA from the Bahamas to the Canary Islands. These measurements, encompassing temperature, salinity, and velocity, allow scientists to estimate pressure changes across the Atlantic, providing insight into how much water is being effectively stored, according to team member Shane Elipot, also from the University of Miami.

Water moves from areas of high pressure to those of low pressure, but the Earth’s counterclockwise rotation causes deflection to the right, leading to reverse circulation. Thus, pressure changes can be indicative of AMOC strength variations.

The latest analysis of RAPID-MOCHA data reveals that AMOC flow is decreasing at a rate of approximately 90,000 cubic meters per second each year—a faster decline than previously observed. This indicates that the AMOC weakened by about 10% from 2004 to 2023.

However, the variation in certainty surrounding this reported change is quite significant. To address this, the study also examined pressure dynamics from three mooring arrays installed along the western Atlantic coast—near the West Indies, the U.S. East Coast, and Nova Scotia, Canada. Results show considerably lower uncertainty and a more pronounced weakening of the AMOC.

“This represents the strongest direct observational evidence to date of AMOC weakening, aligning with long-held model predictions,” commented Stefan Rahmstorf from the University of Potsdam in Germany, who was not involved in the study.

Scientists speculate that freshwater from the melting Greenland ice sheet is diluting the AMOC’s intensely salted waters, impeding their sinking action and thus weakening the southward flow along the ocean floor of the western Atlantic. The observed declining trends across four latitudes in the Western Atlantic point to this phenomenon.

“We anticipate these changes to be evident deep within the western boundary,” team members assert, including David Smeed from the UK National Marine Centre. “This strengthens our confidence in that interpretation.”

“They provide the first robust evidence of a consistent weakening of overturning across various latitudes in the Deep West,” claims René van Westen, a professor at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, who did not participate in the study.

Elipot emphasized the need for ongoing observations to clarify whether the AMOC is on the brink of collapse, a scenario that could lead to significantly colder winters in Europe and disrupt monsoon patterns in Asia and Africa.

“This trend suggests we might be approaching a tipping point,” he notes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Expert Insights: How to Easily Spot a Liar, According to a Psychology Professor

Posted on April 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

From innocent fibs to deep-seated secrets, lies are intricately woven into our society’s tapestry.

But how can you discern when someone is lying beyond blatant deceptions with obvious flaws? The key lies in psychology.

We recently spoke with Professor Richard Wiseman, an expert in Social Understanding in Psychology at the University of Hertfordshire, on the Instant Genius podcast. He shared essential insights on improving our ability to identify deception.

He provides strategies for recognizing liars, the body language to be mindful of, and discusses scenarios where lying may be justifiable.

How can we identify if someone is lying?

I collaborated with the BBC on an experiment interviewing politicians on the radio. The audience aimed to identify who was lying, but few wanted to participate actively.

We reached out to a prominent political interviewer who agreed to help us.

I conversed with him twice—once he lied and once he told the truth—broadcasting both instances live. After approximately 30,000 audience calls, we discovered that people were nearly 50/50 in identifying the truth or a lie.

The interview recordings were published in the newspaper and aired on the radio. Interestingly, when visual cues were absent, people’s ability to detect lies significantly improved.

Visual cues can be manipulated—how we gesture or smile. However, spoken words often remain unexamined, providing valuable insights.

By focusing on auditory cues, you can enhance your lie detection skills.

Is there truth to the idea that lying involves looking up and to the right?

This notion is a prevalent myth, with many making decisions based on it—a concerning trend.

Faces require considerable mental processing, prompting us to avert our gaze when trying to recall something. This is often misinterpreted as a deception indicator.

In controlled lab tests, no correlation between eye movement and lying was found. Even when analyzing eye movements during overt lies, the results were inconclusive.

As it stands, there’s no evidence linking eye movements to lying behavior, though many believe otherwise.

Can individuals conceal their body language when lying?

Men discussing business in a modern boardroom

While some can conceal their body language, most struggle with it. In lie detection, I focus on deviations from typical behavior.

A gesture like scratching one’s nose could either indicate lying or just be normal behavior. Analyzing a single action may be misleading; it’s vital to consider an overall pattern.

Effective lie detection requires establishing a baseline, allowing you to pinpoint abnormalities in verbal communication.

What you should observe are hesitations, a longer interval from question to answer, and omissions as the individual crafts their lie.

Pay attention to repetitive phrases like “me” or “I.” Lying demands cognitive effort.

When fabricating a story, I must carefully consider what the listener knows, what aligns with my narrative, and previously stated facts, adding to mental stress.

Is it possible to become a skilled liar?

From a psychological perspective, arousal theory comes into play.

Typically, feeling guilty while lying triggers physiological responses like sweating and fidgeting.

However, if one lies frequently or lacks empathy regarding a falsehood, these signs diminish.

Many lies exist in a gray area; they can either unite or hurt us. For example, telling someone it’s wonderful to meet them might not reflect genuine sentiment but serves an emotional purpose.

Lies can forge connections as readily as they disrupt them. If one feels relaxed while lying, they’re less likely to exhibit signs of deception.

From a cognitive angle, lying is challenging. If someone has rehearsed their story multiple times, they may present their deception convincingly without obvious signals.

How accurate are lie detectors in detecting deception?

Lie detectors measure physiological responses such as sweat rate, heart rate, and breathing patterns.

The burning question remains: are these indicators consistently linked to lying? There’s significant debate on this topic. It varies by individual.

Businessman undergoing interrogation with a lie detector

It’s understandable that the presence of elaborate machines can induce nervousness, even in honest individuals.

Conversely, some who lie may remain calm, repeating their narratives or feeling indifferent about the deception. I believe lie detectors are far from reliable.

While they can provide insights, they are not foolproof and should be approached cautiously.

Most findings are inadmissible as evidence in court, which is a significant consideration.

Is it acceptable to lie to children?

We often expect our children to stretch the truth in certain scenarios. For instance, if someone gifts them a less-than-ideal present, we’d rather they feign appreciation.

In some cases, we value honesty and wish our children to discern when lying may be acceptable.

Lying isn’t a singular behavior; it encompasses various situations. We must teach children that lying can sometimes be justified, depending on context.

Are you lying to spare someone’s feelings? If so, that may be justifiable. Are you doing so for personal gain? If discovered, the fallout may be severe.

Lying has been part of human existence, aiding our survival. Understanding what constitutes a lie is key.

About Our Expert: Professor Richard Wiseman

Richard is a psychology professor at the University of Hertfordshire and hosts the On Your Mind podcast.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Unlocking Health Insights: What Your Body’s Natural Smell Reveals About Your Well-being

Posted on April 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

While we often associate body odor with being unpleasant, these natural scents can provide insightful information about our overall health.

What Causes Body Odor?

Body odor originates from sweat, but not all sweat has the same effect. Most unpleasant odors arise when bacteria interact with secretions from the apocrine glands, mainly located in the armpits and groin.

These glands emit a thicker, protein-rich fluid that initially has little odor. However, when bacteria on your skin break it down, the result is that familiar pungent scent.

In contrast, eccrine glands, found throughout the body, secrete a more diluted mixture of water and salt, which typically carries little inherent odor, although bacteria can produce a smell.

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What Can Body Odor Indicate About Your Health?

Minor changes in your odor may be your body’s way of signaling a potential health issue. For instance, poorly managed diabetes can cause a sweet or fruity aroma on the skin and breath, often likened to pear drops or nail polish remover.

This scent may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, a medical emergency due to the buildup of ketone bodies from insufficient insulin.

Moreover, liver disease can produce a musty or “fecal” scent, while kidney failure may lead to an ammonia-like smell due to the body’s struggle to expel waste products.

Changes in odor can also be influenced by infections, pregnancy, menstrual cycles, and hormonal fluctuations, including menopause.

Interestingly, researchers are investigating whether body scent can assist in the early and accurate diagnosis of various diseases.

Your skin’s natural microbiome significantly influences your body odor, which is why some individuals naturally emit stronger scents than others – Image courtesy of Getty Images.

Recent research suggests that certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), released by the skin, can indicate conditions like Parkinson’s disease even before noticeable neurological symptoms occur.

This investigatory field was partly inspired by individuals with heightened olfactory sensitivity, including a woman who recognized a unique musky scent from her husband long before he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

Impact of Lifestyle, Diet, and Genetics

Not every odor is concerning. Foods like garlic, onions, and curry contain volatile compounds that can affect sweat’s scent. Alcohol, caffeine, and various medications can also alter your body odor.

Even stress can shift your scent due to changes in sweat composition.

Your skin’s microbiome (the diverse bacteria community on your skin) plays a crucial role in determining body odor, explaining why some individuals naturally have stronger smells than others.

What To Do If You’re Concerned About Body Odor?

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial. Regularly washing with soap, especially in areas with high concentrations of apocrine glands, can reduce bacteria responsible for strong odors.

Antiperspirants help decrease sweat production, while deodorants mask unpleasant scents.

Wearing breathable fabrics, such as cotton or moisture-wicking materials, can help minimize bacterial growth, particularly during physical activity. Keeping well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also alleviate odor concerns.

If you notice a persistent or unexplained change in body odor, especially alongside symptoms related to diabetes, liver, or kidney issues, consider consulting a healthcare professional.

This article addresses the question (by Spalding’s Scott Edwards): “Can my scent provide insights into my health?”

If you have questions or feedback, feel free to email us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (don’t forget to include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate fun facts and more intriguing science content.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discover Fascinating Indigenous Cultures: Insights from New Scientist Expert Kathleen Duvall

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The rich history of North America’s Indigenous peoples is often misrepresented through a European perspective. In her book, Indigenous People, historian Kathleen Duvall from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides a comprehensive overview, exploring centuries of development and the ways Indigenous communities navigated a constantly changing world.

Duvall illustrates how climate change from the Medieval Warm Period to the last Ice Age influenced Indigenous agricultural and water management practices. The book also highlights monumental engineering achievements, such as the impressive Cahokia Mounds in present-day Illinois and the innovative Hoogum canal system in Arizona.

Focusing on Indigenous experiences, the book covers essential topics such as the astronomical calendar and the impacts of the post-colonial smallpox epidemic, while dismantling prevalent misconceptions.

If you are passionate about historical nonfiction or seeking fresh insights into topics like ecology, botany, and archaeology, Indigenous People promises to be an engaging read.

Kelsey Haze
London Bureau Chief

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discover the Unique Galapagos Lava Heron: Insights from New Research

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The Galapagos lava heron, a unique small heron found on the lava-strewn shores of Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, has recently gained recognition for its distinct status.

Galapagos lava heron (Butorides sundevalli). Image credit: Casey Klebba / CC BY-SA 4.0.

Endemic to the Galapagos Islands, this slate-gray to black heron has intrigued ornithologists for years.

While some classify it under the widely distributed Great Heron (Butorides striatum) as a subspecies Butorides striata sundevari, others advocate for its recognition as a separate species, Butorides sundevalli.

Recent DNA analyses led by researchers from San Francisco State University and the California Academy of Sciences lend weight to the latter perspective.

“This bird, noted for its significant plumage variation, has long posed the question of whether it stands as a separate species or simply as a subspecies of mainland birds,” said Dr. Jamie Chavez, lead author of the study.

Through the examination of thousands of genetic markers and numerous museum specimens, researchers found that the Galapagos lava heron forms its own distinct evolutionary lineage, diverging from its supposed relatives.

Surprisingly, the lava heron shows closer genetic ties to the Gray Heron (Butorides virescens) from North and Central America than to the Great Heron.

The ancestors of the Galapagos lava heron may have arrived on the islands via unusual migration routes, evolving in isolation over time.

“For biologists, visiting the Galapagos is a dream come true,” remarked Ezra Menderes, a graduate from San Francisco State University and co-author of the study. “There’s still so much to uncover within these well-studied ecosystems.”

This research not only clarifies the status of this magnificent bird but also contributes to a broader understanding of the evolutionary relationships within heron species.

Scientists suggest that what was once perceived as a single, globally distributed species should now be considered as several distinct species, including separate lineages across the Americas, Africa, and Australasia.

“Our ultra-conserved element (UCE) phylogenetic results indicate substantial internal divergence within the genus Butorides, bridging populations from the Old and New Worlds,” the authors noted.

“The UCE-based phylogeny strongly confirms the monophyly of New World herons, including the South American Great Heron, Gray Heron, and Galapagos lava heron.”

The findings, published in this month’s edition of Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, significantly enhance our comprehension of avian evolution.

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Ezra Z. Menderes et al. 2026. Global phylogenetic relationships of Butorides herons (suborder: Ardeidae) reveal the evolutionary history and taxonomic status of the Galapagos lava heron. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 220: 108600; doi: 10.1016/j.ympev.2026.108600

Source: www.sci.news

Chimpanzee Drum Solo Reveals Insights into the Origins of Music

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

In a groundbreaking analysis of spontaneous performances by a male chimpanzee named Ayumu, researchers discovered that the chimp’s rhythmic prowess and expressive “playful face” provide insights into how early humans might have transformed vocal emotions into musical instrument sounds.

Chimpanzee Ayumu exhibited long, multi-element musical displays by drumming and manipulating objects. The analysis of his rhythmic transitions revealed structured sequences, primarily isochronous timing, and a more stable tempo with tools compared to body drumming. His playful expressions suggest heightened arousal and positive emotions, reinforcing the concept that emotional vocal expressions can manifest through instrumental sounds. Image provided by: Hattori et al., doi: 10.1111/nyas.70239.

In February 2023, Ayumu, a 26-year-old male chimpanzee at the Center for Research on the Origins of Human Behavior and Evolution at Kyoto University, showcased a spontaneous musical performance that intrigued researchers.

He creatively removed floorboards to use as drums, generating complex sounds reminiscent of vocal expressions.

Dr. Yuko Hattori of Kyoto University noted, “Ayumu’s drumming is not unprecedented.” Chimpanzees are indeed recognized for their musical talents, especially in drumming.

However, Dr. Hattori emphasized that Ayumu’s unique combination of drumming and vocalizations introduced multiple rhythmic elements, marking a novel instance.

Between February 2023 and March 2025, researchers documented a total of 89 spontaneous performances by Ayumu.

The recordings reveal him ripping floorboards apart to create music through innovative tool use.

“Observing chimpanzees utilize tools to produce diverse sounds and express vocal emotions was fascinating,” remarked Dr. Hattori.

The researchers aimed to determine if vocal expressions could transition to instrumental sounds based on Ayumu’s performances.

They meticulously categorized his actions into elements such as hitting, dragging, and throwing.

Transition analysis was utilized to differentiate between random occurrences and intentional actions.

Finally, they assessed the rhythmic stability of tool use versus hand and foot drumming by analyzing intervals between strikes.

Notably, they found that the order of sounds produced was structured, with isochronous intervals that maintained a constant tempo, akin to a metronome.

Indeed, using tools yielded a more consistent rhythm compared to solely relying on hands and feet.

The researchers also documented Ayumu’s facial expressions, including the “play face,” commonly associated with playfulness and positive emotions.

This type of emotional signaling, typically absent in audio displays, suggests that vocal emotions may have previously been externalized into sounds produced with tools.

“Ayumu’s performance illustrates that non-human primates have the capacity to externalize voice-like expressions through musical instruments,” the authors concluded.

Moving forward, they expressed interest in studying the reactions of other chimpanzees and the influence of Ayumu’s performance within his social group.

For detailed insights, refer to the study published in Annual Report of the New York Academy of Sciences.

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Yuko Hattori et al., 2026. Combination of Instrument Sound Production in Captive Chimpanzees: Evolution of Vocal Externalization. Annual Report of the New York Academy of Sciences 1557 (1): e70239; doi: 10.1111/nyas.70239

Source: www.sci.news

Perseverance Uncovers Nickel-Rich Rocks on Mars: Insights into Early Martian Chemistry

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Exciting findings from the Neretva Canyon—a prehistoric river channel that once flowed to Mars’ Jezero Crater—uncover significant concentrations of nickel in 3 billion-year-old sediments. These patterns mirror mineral formations found on Earth, often linked to microbial activity.

Nickel detected in bright magnesium sulfate veins in Jezero Crater on Mars, supporting its genuine origin. Image credit: Manelski et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-70081-3.

“The Perseverance rover landed in Mars’ Jezero Crater in February 2021 aimed at exploring ancient habitable environments and collecting core samples for future return to Earth during a planned Mars sample return mission,” stated Dr. Henry Manerski from Purdue University and his research team.

“Jezero is a Noachian impact crater, approximately 45 km in diameter, dating back 3.8 to 4 billion years, that once housed a lake, as supported by its two inlet valleys, delta fan formations, and an outlet valley on the eastern side.”

“Since its landing, Perseverance has traversed the igneous crater floor, ascended western alluvial fan deposits, crossed olivine- and carbonate-rich margins, and entered the western inlet valley known as the Neretva Valley.”

In their comprehensive study, Dr. Manerski and colleagues employed lasers, infrared spectrometers, and X-ray spectrometers onboard Perseverance to analyze 126 sedimentary rock samples and eight rock surfaces in the Neretva Valley.

They discovered nickel in 32 rocks at concentrations reaching up to 1.1% by weight, marking the highest level ever recorded in Martian rock.

The team noted that nickel tends to occur alongside iron sulfide compounds and sulfate minerals resulting from the breakdown of rocks such as jarosite and acanite.

Researchers drew parallels between the nickel-rich iron sulfide arrangements found in the Neretva Valley and the composition and structure of pyrite, an iron sulfide mineral observed in sedimentary rocks worldwide.

Iron sulfide found in Earth’s sedimentary rocks is predominantly produced by the anaerobic respiration of microorganisms that utilize sulfate in the presence of iron-rich minerals.

Previous investigations identified iron sulfide in the Neretva Valley, coinciding with organic carbon compounds and suggested these may have originated from biological sources.

“Although, such formations can also arise from non-biological processes,” the scientists noted.

“Our current research hasn’t provided evidence of any organisms being present.”

“Nickel is a vital element in the enzymes of many ancient archaeal and bacterial species, playing crucial roles in energy production, carbon fixation, and organic matter decomposition.”

“The identification of nickel-rich rocks implies that if life existed on early Mars, nickel was potentially available in forms usable by these organisms.”

“The nickel may stem from the breakdown of igneous rocks or from nickel-rich meteorites.”

“More research is essential to pinpoint the source of nickel in the Neretva Gorge and to examine its relationship with organic matter at this location.”

Results from this study were published in this week’s issue of Nature Communications.

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HT Manerski et al. 2026. Strong nickel enrichment coexists with redox and organic interactions in Neretva Canyon on Mars. Nat Commun 17, 2705; doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-70081-3

Source: www.sci.news

Discovering Saturn’s Warped Magnetic Shield: Insights into an Alien World

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent archival data from ESA’s Cassini mission reveals that Saturn’s magnetic bubble is asymmetrically shaped, influenced not only by the solar wind but also by Saturn’s rapid rotation and the material emitted by its moons.

A diagram illustrating Saturn’s magnetosphere configuration affected by solar wind and rapid rotation. Image credit: Xu et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-69666-9.

Saturn’s magnetosphere serves as a shield, protecting the planet from highly charged particles in the solar wind.

Its magnetic footprint is vast, spanning over 10 times the width of Saturn.

A study led by Professor Andrew Coates from University College London analyzed six years of Cassini data to precisely locate Saturn’s cusp, the point where magnetic fields bend towards the planet’s poles and charged particles descend into its atmosphere.

The researchers discovered that this cusp is displaced to the right from the sun’s perspective, typically found between 1 PM and 3 PM (akin to a clock face), compared to the 12 PM position seen on Earth.

This asymmetry is attributed to Saturn’s rapid rotation, which completes a cycle in just 10.7 hours, along with the dense plasma environment resulting from its moons, especially Enceladus.

These factors contribute to pulling the magnetic field lines to the right, though further simulations are needed for validation.

Enceladus, known for its icy plumes erupting from subsurface oceans, holds potential for extraterrestrial life. Saturn’s diverse environment is particularly intriguing as it is slated to be the focus of a significant ESA mission launching in the 2040s.

“The cusp allows the solar wind direct access into the magnetosphere,” states Professor Coates.

“Understanding the location of Saturn’s cusp is crucial for mapping its entire magnetic bubble.”

“Gaining deeper insights into Saturn’s environment is increasingly important as we prepare for missions returning to Saturn and its moon Enceladus.”

“These findings invigorate our enthusiasm for future explorations.”

“This time, we will search for signs of habitability and potential life.”

“The study supports the long-held theory that the rapid rotation of gas giants like Saturn, coupled with their active moons, displaces the solar wind, shaping their magnetospheres differently than Earth’s.”

“This suggests that gas giants like Saturn have unique magnetospheric behaviors compared to Earth.”

“Enceladus is a significant contributor to this dynamic, emitting substantial water vapor that ionizes and infuses the magnetosphere with heavy plasma, further influenced by Saturn’s rotation.”

“The contrasts between Saturn’s and Earth’s magnetic structures imply a fundamental process governing solar wind interactions among different planets,” explains Professor Zhonghua Yao from the University of Hong Kong.

“Comprehensive observations of Earth elucidate its mechanisms, while comparative studies across planets unveil fundamental laws applicable to understanding other celestial environments, including exoplanets.”

“By integrating Cassini’s observations with simulations, we illustrate how Saturn’s rapid rotation and Enceladus’s plasma emissions contribute to the asymmetric global distribution of cusps,” says researcher Dr. Yang Xu from Southern University of Science and Technology.

“We aim for this research to serve as a crucial reference for future explorations of Jupiter and Saturn’s environments.”

Results were published in the journal Nature Communications.

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Y. Shu et al. Asymmetric distribution of Saturn’s cusps at dawn and dusk. Nat Commun. 1861, 17th 2023. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-69666-9

Source: www.sci.news

Exploring the Sun’s Chaotic Magnetic Core: New Insights Revealed

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent analysis of NASA’s Parker Solar Probe data reveals that protons and heavy ions react differently during solar magnetic reconnection events, highlighting the complexity of space weather mechanisms.

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe approaches the Sun. Image credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio.

Magnetic reconnection transforms magnetic energy into explosive kinetic energy, fueling various solar phenomena that significantly impact space weather affecting Earth.

This process energizes protons and heavy ions, propelling them from the Sun at extraordinary speeds.

While current models assume uniform particle behavior, new insights from the Parker Solar Probe indicate significant differences in particle acceleration.

Heavy ions are projected straight, resembling a laser beam, whereas protons generate waves that scatter trailing particles in a dispersive pattern—much like the effect of a flashlight.

“These new findings redefine our understanding of magnetic reconnection,” stated Dr. Mihir Desai, a researcher at the Southwest Research Institute and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

“Protons and heavy ions show distinct spectral behaviors that challenge existing models.”

“Protons create scattered waves more efficiently, while heavy ions maintain a focused beam and preserve their accelerated spectral shape.”

“Magnetic reconnection is a common phenomenon throughout the universe, where magnetic field lines converge, separate, and rejoin.”

“Within the Sun, explosive processes energize particles, generating high-velocity streams that lead to space weather phenomena like solar flares and coronal mass ejections.”

“Such space weather can disrupt Earth’s space environment, resulting in breathtaking auroras but also affecting power grids, satellite communications, and navigation systems.”

“Understanding the mechanics of magnetic reconnection is crucial for predicting hazardous events and safeguarding both life and technological assets on Earth and in space.”

“Our findings reveal that the Sun’s ‘magnetic engine’ is far more intricate than previously thought,” Dr. Desai added.

“This is thrilling as it shows that our own star acts as an accessible laboratory for high-energy physics, similar to the processes that drive some of the universe’s most intense phenomena, like black holes and supernovae.”

For more details, refer to the study results, published on March 31st in the Astrophysics Journal Letter.

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MI Desai et al. 2026. Acceleration of protons and heavy ions by magnetic reconnection in the near-solar heliospheric current sheet. APJ 1000, 300; doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae48f2

Source: www.sci.news

Last Man on the Moon Shares Insights on Apollo Experience and Artemis II Mission

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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Source: www.nbcnews.com

Apollo 17 Astronauts Share Moonwalk Insights and Advice with NASA’s Artemis II Crew

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

When it comes to advice for the four NASA astronauts poised to embark on their lunar voyage this Wednesday, Harrison Schmidt is undoubtedly the expert you want to hear from.

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At 90 years old, Schmidt made history when he walked on the moon during Apollo 17 in 1972, the last human mission to our lunar neighbor.

NASA’s Artemis II mission is set to launch on Wednesday at 6:24 PM, marking a new chapter in lunar exploration. The mission aims to orbit the moon, paving the way for a future landing in 2028, mirroring Apollo 8’s pivotal role for Apollo 11.

According to Schmidt, the Artemis II astronauts will encounter many of the surreal vistas he experienced over fifty years ago.

“Every day, every hour, every minute is a new experience,” Schmidt remarked in an interview with NBC News.

To the Artemis II team, Schmidt advises: “Train well. Be prepared for the unexpected. But most importantly, have fun.”

Since the days of Apollo 17, much has changed. At that time, Schmidt and the crew were entrenched in a space race against the Soviet Union, whereas NASA is now in competition with China, which has its sights set on landing astronauts on the moon by 2030.

The Apollo 17 crew spent nearly 13 days in space, including three on the moon, traveling 30 kilometers on the lunar rover, the furthest any crew has gone, while collecting a record-breaking 243 pounds of geological samples.

Astronaut Harrison H. Schmidt, Lunar Module Pilot, aboard the Lunar Module LM before it lifts off from the moon in 1972.
Eugene A. Cernan/NASA

Schmidt recounts the unforgettable experience of entering lunar orbit in darkness on the moon’s far side, shielded from Earth’s view.

“As we were landing on the east side of the moon with the sun barely peeking over the horizon, stepping into that incredible darkness was surreal. The moon was visibly illuminated by Earth’s light, casting a beautiful bluish hue,” Schmidt reminisced.

Schmidt stands near the U.S. flag on the moon during a spacewalk on December 13, 1972.
JSC/NASA

The Artemis II astronauts will have an unprecedented view of the moon’s far side.

“We’ve discovered that roughly 60% of the far side has never been seen by human eyes due to its lighting conditions,” remarked Reed Wiseman, the Artemis II mission commander. “Apollo focused on lighting for landings on the near side, but this moonwalk offers a different perspective. It’s truly remarkable.”

Following Apollo 17’s conclusion, the U.S. shifted its focus away from sustaining a human presence on the moon. The 1970s budget cuts led to the cancellation of further Apollo missions, prompting a priority shift toward the space station.

The crew of Apollo 17 captured this view of Earth on December 7, 1972, while heading toward the moon.
JSC/NASA

Unlike the Apollo missions, NASA’s Artemis program intends to establish a sustainable lunar presence, laying the groundwork for future missions to Mars.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if we see people live on the moon for months or even years within our lifetime,” Schmidt expressed. “Mars is within our reach, and we will continue pushing forward.”

What fuels his optimism? “As humans, exploration is ingrained in our nature,” Schmidt asserted.

“From our origins in Africa to the present, the drive to explore and expand is deeply embedded within us,” he concludes.

Schmidt trained in the Lunar Module Simulator at Kennedy Space Center before the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.
NASA

As Apollo 17 ventured away from the moon, Commander Gene Cernan remarked: “We depart just as we came; with God’s will, we will return carrying peace and hope for all mankind.”

If everything goes according to plan, Artemis II will be a significant stride in that journey. By the mission’s sixth day, the crew expects to come within just 6,000 miles of the moon’s surface, potentially reaching farther from Earth than any human has traveled before.

“This mission is essential for our nation,” Schmidt asserts. “China is clearly vying for space control, just as it is on Earth. Thus, this national initiative must be executed effectively.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

What Your Enjoyment of Others’ Failures Says About You: Insights and Reflections

Posted on March 29, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Schadenfreude, the intriguing emotion of deriving pleasure from the misfortune of others, is surprisingly common. While it may seem unkind or even vindictive, if you’ve ever felt guilty for the satisfaction you gain when someone stumbles, remember it’s a natural human response.

This emotion stems from complex processes that have developed in our brains over millions of years.

Humans are fundamentally social beings, often described by scientists as “hypersocial.” We are perpetually attuned to other people’s opinions, our relationships, and, crucially, our social status within various hierarchies.

Understanding social status is key. We possess an innate awareness of social hierarchies and our position within them. On a subconscious level, we desire to be liked, respected, and recognized, influencing our actions and motivations significantly.

There are various ways to enhance your social status, including excelling in sports, achieving career success, owning impressive properties, or having the latest technology. Elevating your social status triggers pleasurable sensations in your brain. Conversely, research indicates that low social status can lead to substantial stress and health problems.

However, social status is subjective and relative. One way to elevate your status is to witness someone else’s decline. When an individual suffers a setback that causes them to lose esteem, it can create a satisfying boost to your own status without any effort on your part—hence, schadenfreude.

It’s important to note that this feeling doesn’t arise every time someone fails. Typically, it must be proportional; it’s rarely pleasurable when an innocent person faces misfortune, even if they hold a higher status.

This reaction ties back to another inherent bias in the human psyche: the “just world” hypothesis. We naturally believe that the world is fair, even in the face of contrary evidence. Our brains gravitate towards fairness and justice just as they do towards elevated social standing.

Therefore, when someone perceived as unfairly privileged faces setbacks, it creates a potent mix of satisfaction and equity for us, making the experience of schadenfreude almost irresistible.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Unveiling the Male G-Spot: Insights from the Most Comprehensive Penis Study Ever

Posted on March 27, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Anatomy Textbooks May Need Revision: Discovering the Penis’s Primary Erogenous Zones

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Anatomy Study of the Penis — Anatomy Textbooks May Need Revision: Discovering the Penis’s Primary Erogenous Zones

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The latest neuroanatomical research reveals that the primary erogenous zone of the penis is the zonula delta, an area that has been overlooked in anatomy textbooks and surgical training. This triangular zone, found on the ventral side of the penis, where the head meets the shaft, is particularly vulnerable during circumcision.

“While this may seem obvious to those familiar with male sexual sensations, our study scientifically validates the existence of this region of the ventral penis as the epicenter of sexual sensation,” stated Alfonso Cepeda-Emiliani from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

Given this scientific insight, the delta frenulum could be considered the “male G-spot.” Eric Chan, president-elect of the International Society of Sexual Medicine, noted, “It’s one of the most pleasurable sites for male sexual stimulation.”

Cepeda-Emiliani and his team conducted an exhaustive mapping of the sensory nerves in 14 cadaveric penises from donors aged between 45 and 96. They meticulously sliced the penises into fine sections and stained them to highlight nerve structures for microscopic examination.

Traditional anatomy textbooks suggest that male genital sensitivity is primarily concentrated in the glans, the bulbous head of the penis. However, findings from Cepeda-Emiliani’s research indicate that the zonula delta boasts a denser concentration of nerve endings, making it significantly more sensitive.

The delta zonula also exhibited the highest density of sensory corpuscles, specialized touch receptors that consist of clusters of nerve endings. Up to 17 corpuscles were found grouped together in the zonular delta, while in the glans, they were more dispersed. Notably, sensory corpuscles within the delta include Krause’s corpuscles, which detect minute vibrations that contribute to sexual arousal and pleasure.

The frenulum delta was first identified by Ken McGrath of Auckland University of Technology in 2001, named for its triangular shape located between the V-shaped wings of the glans on the penis’s underside. Although McGrath dubbed it the male G-spot due to its potential for sexual pleasure, the term did not gain widespread acceptance.

Recent research corroborates the subjective experiences of individuals who report that stimulation of this “G-spot” induces intense pleasure and uniquely specialized sensations, highlighting gaps in sexual medicine and urology training, as noted by Cepeda-Emiliani and colleagues.

Surgeons performing circumcisions must be aware of the nerve-rich delta frenulum. When making an incision to remove the foreskin, the impact on this delicate neural network is profound, necessitating careful consideration to avoid unnecessarily deep or wide incisions that could lead to the complete removal of the frenulum. Retaining some or all of it is crucial for preserving sensitivity.

Dr. Kesley Pedler from Port Macquarie Base Hospital in Australia stated she did not learn about the zonular delta or its significant nerves during her surgical education. “Most respected urological surgical anatomy textbooks fail to mention the zonular delta, even in their latest editions,” she asserted. Dr. Pedler now performs circumcisions only when clinically necessary, emphasizing the importance of preserving nerve structure in this area.

Circumcision rates vary, with only a small proportion of boys in the UK and Australia undergoing the procedure, while approximately half of newborn boys in the US are circumcised. Whether such surgeries affect sexual sensation remains a topic of debate.

A large study in Belgium discovered that uncircumcised men reported experiencing greater sexual pleasure, attributed to stimulation of the zonular delta compared to circumcised men. Conversely, a US survey indicated that there was no discernible difference in orgasm quality, suggesting that circumcised individuals might compensate for any sensitivity loss in the zonular delta region.

The existence of the female G-spot, similarly, has faced skepticism in the medical community, with some practitioners denying its occurrence altogether. This skepticism stems from the lack of distinct nerve structures found in expected vaginal locations. However, studies show that many women identify an erogenous zone several centimeters along the vagina’s front wall, and ultrasound research reveals that the clitoris becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal, leading to heightened sensitivity in the vaginal walls.

Cepeda-Emiliani and his team are now embarking on similar detailed studies focused on cadaveric vaginas and clitorises to further explore sexual anatomy.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring Plant-Based Soil Remediation: Insights from Scientists – Sciworthy

Posted on March 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Industrial activities, including mining, smelting, and electronics manufacturing, generate significant environmental waste that contaminates soil. These wastes often contain toxic metals detrimental to both flora and fauna..

Soil remediation can be a complex undertaking. Conventional methods, like landfilling contaminated soil, are costly and can degrade soil quality. To address these issues, researchers and farmers are exploring innovative plant-based solutions for soil cleanup, notably through a process called Phytoremediation, which involves the use of plants that absorb heavy metals. Enhancing these plants with growth-promoting microorganisms bolsters root development and nutrient accessibility, subsequently boosting plant vitality.

In addition to phytoremediation, farmers utilize treatments derived from burning organic matter in low-oxygen conditions, known as biochar. Biochar effectively binds heavy metals in the soil, reducing their toxicity to plants. However, there is limited research on the synergistic effects of combining microorganisms with biochar for soil remediation.

A research team from Portugal conducted experiments to determine if combining biochar with microorganisms could enhance phytoremediation effectiveness. They examined the effects of biochar augmented with two specific microorganisms: the bacteria Pseudomonas liatans EDP28 and the fungi Rhizoglomus irregulare, both recognized for their plant growth-promoting capabilities.

The objective was to assess whether soil treatments could decrease copper contamination and enhance sunflower growth in mined soil, which contained an average of 1,080 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of copper—over three times the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended limit of 100 to 300 mg/kg.

In a controlled greenhouse setting, the researchers established experiments involving three different microbial treatments: P. Reactance bacteria, R. Irregular fungi, and a blended microbial treatment combining both. They prepared pots with contaminated mine soil, added these microbial treatments, and introduced sunflower seedlings, along with varying doses of biochar (0%, 2.5%, and 5% by weight). This resulted in 12 unique treatments, including three with only biochar, three with just microorganisms, and one control without any additives.

After a period of 12 weeks, the researchers evaluated the growth of sunflower seedlings. They began by measuring chlorophyll, the green pigment crucial for photosynthesis. Using a specialized machine that transmits red and infrared light through the leaves, they found that while biochar did not influence chlorophyll levels, the microbial inoculum significantly increased chlorophyll content, thereby enhancing the plants’ photosynthetic capacity.

Subsequently, they measured the length of the plants’ roots and shoots before drying them to calculate total dry weight. Surprisingly, biochar addition appeared to hinder plant growth; sunflowers with 2.5% and 5% biochar exhibited shoot lengths that were 22% and 26% shorter and had shoot masses that were 46% and 49% less, respectively, compared to those grown without biochar.

However, the microbial inoculants, especially the mixed bacteria and fungi combination, mitigated the adverse effects of biochar and actually promoted plant growth. Compared to plants without microorganisms, those receiving the mixed inoculum showed an increase of 48% and 45% in shoot length and a boost of 122% and 137% in dry biomass at 2.5% and 5% biochar treatments, respectively.

Copper content was assessed by dissolving soil, roots, and shoots in water and acid, followed by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy to quantify copper atoms. Results revealed higher copper concentrations in plant roots than in shoots across all treatments, with biochar-treated plants having root copper levels that increased by an average of 38% compared to controls. This contrasted with earlier studies suggesting biochar might hinder metal uptake.

Interestingly, the effects of microorganisms on copper levels proved inconsistent. The mixed inoculum raised root copper concentrations by 51% in the 2.5% biochar treatment, while it had no significant impact in the 5% scenario.

In conclusion, biochar enhanced the phytoremediation efficiency of sunflowers by boosting copper accumulation in roots, albeit at the expense of plant growth. Conversely, microbes enhanced the chlorophyll content, benefiting both growth and photosynthesis. The research team advocates for larger-scale field studies with microbial inoculants and biochar to explore practical applications further.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Neuroscientist Reveals Why Some Psychopaths Wish They Were Nicer: Insights into the Mind

Posted on March 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

When discussing psychopathy, many envision a dangerous individual whose self-serving actions harm others while benefiting themselves. This trait is more prevalent than one might think; approximately 1% of the population experiences psychopathic traits, with research indicating a significant link between psychopathy and leadership roles in corporate settings.

Yet, living with psychopathy can be challenging.
Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University, explores the lives of individuals with psychopathic traits who lead seemingly ordinary lives. Surprisingly, many do not aspire to become psychopaths.

While the precise definition of psychopathy is still under investigation, it typically includes traits such as emotional insensitivity, lack of empathy, and impulsiveness. Screening tools assess behaviors like pathological lying and manipulative tendencies.

A recent study, available here, indicates that psychopaths have an intense focus on their own goals and struggle to understand the perspectives of others. Researchers, including Marsh, have found physical differences in the brains of those with psychopathic traits.

By focusing on individuals with high psychopathy scores from the general population, Marsh’s team recently quantified how psychopathic individuals perceive others’ well-being. In an interview with New Scientist, Marsh discusses her unexpected findings and the complexity of feeling compassion towards individuals with psychopathy.

Interview with Abigail Marsh: Understanding Psychopathy

Sabrina Weiss: How do psychopaths generally perceive life?

Abigail Marsh: Psychopaths often report a lack of strong emotions, including fear, guilt, and love. While some believe this could simplify life, many find their existence more challenging, often “hiding” their identities to navigate social situations. This stigma, usually seen as a moral failing, actually stems from similar roots found in other mental health issues, involving genetics and life experiences.

Investigating the Brain: What Do We Know?

While brain scans cannot “diagnose” psychopathy, they do reveal consistent differences in certain areas such as the amygdala, which is often smaller in individuals with psychopathic traits. Research from my lab indicates that children with smaller amygdalae may show more severe psychopathic behaviors over time, coupled with reduced responsiveness to others’ emotions.

*The Wolf of Wall Street:* A portrayal of psychopathic traits.

Photo 12/Alamy

Treating Mental Illness: What Are the Options?

One analysis suggests that three years of therapy can aid psychopaths in managing their emotions. Unfortunately, available resources for treating personality disorders remain limited. The societal perception that psychopaths elicit no sympathy makes their need for care often overlooked, despite our moral obligation to provide it.

Can Psychopaths Change Their Behavior?

Some individuals manage significant behavior changes through personal determinations, including fostering relationships they don’t want to jeopardize or simply “faking it” until it feels natural. Others create personal moral codes to guide their behavior, demonstrating that improvement is indeed possible.

How Common is the Desire for Change?

While quantifying this desire is challenging, many individuals express discontent with their behaviors and aspire for change. This is especially evident among those who seek assessments through the organization I co-founded, raising awareness about psychopathy.

Choosing Inclusive Language: Why Does It Matter?

The field is evolving toward a more compassionate, person-centered approach. For instance, we now refer to “individuals with psychopathy” rather than using stigma-laden terms. However, the tendency to label still prevails, particularly concerning personality disorders.

Exploring the Roots of Interest in Psychopathy Research

My fascination began with understanding altruism and evolved through personal experiences that highlighted both the good and bad in human nature, leading to my current research interests.

Recruitment for Research:

My latest study involved over 700 participants with psychopathy scores, primarily recruited through the Aggressive Disorder Prevention Association. A thoughtful approach to advertising has been crucial to our participant recruitment.

Exploring Psychopathy’s Impact on Society

With around 1% of the population exhibiting psychopathic traits, it’s essential to recognize the potential presence of individuals within your social circles. These traits can lead to manipulative or harmful behaviors that significantly affect others.

What to Do If You Suspect Someone of Psychopathy?

Remember, psychopathy is a legitimate mental health issue that can be addressed. Individuals with psychopathy face numerous challenges in their lives and relationships, but dedicated therapeutic support can lead to meaningful changes. Visit the Aggressive Disorder Association website for resources and assistance.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Understanding “Shed Load”: Insights from a Nuclear Physicist

Posted on March 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist - Your source for the latest science news and expert coverage in technology, health, and the environment.

Feedback is New Scientist A popular source for the latest science and technology news. Share your thoughts with us at feedback@newscientist.com.

Exploring Unique Units of Measurement

In our recent exploration of the world’s most unusual units of measurement, Feedback presented an interesting case involving polar bears as units of snowpack. Reader Steve Tees inquired about the meaning of “shed load” in the context of traffic delays.

Since then, we’ve received an influx of emails suggesting alternative phrases to express large quantities.

Two readers, Bryn Glover and John Newton, both linked the term to highway incidents, commenting, “The truck was certainly dropping a load.”

F. Ian Lamb proposed viewing “shed loads” as examples of “endogenous relative scaling (ERS) units,” indicating that individual perceptions of size can vary widely based on personal experiences. For instance, £1,000 could seem insignificant to a millionaire but immense to someone living in poverty. Ian invites readers to share more examples of ERS units.

William Croydon provides another perspective, noting that “shed” is a term utilized in nuclear physics. In particle physics, measuring small particles colliding requires a unit with a tiny cross-sectional area.

According to William, the “barn” unit is 100 square femtometers (10^-28 square meters), which is approximately the cross-section of a uranium atom’s nucleus. Essentially, this small measurement corresponds to the ease with which a nuclear reaction may be initiated.

William also mentioned that smaller units, or “huts,” have been discussed, albeit with uncertainty regarding their dimensions. Online research led to two variants: the “outhouse,” which is one millionth of a barn, and the “yoctoban,” defined as 10^-24 barn, humorously dubbed as a shed in a barn.

In any case, as William points out, even numerous sheds would be “too small to cause problems on the highway.”

Tony Lewis humorously suggests that while Steve Tees wants to know the size of the “xxxx warehouse” blocking traffic, it must indeed measure the equivalent of “xxxx warehouses.”

Pencils and Shakespeare

Feedback regarding the book Puzzle Advisor by Rob Eastaway highlights how William Shakespeare may have been influenced by the mathematics of his era.

Feeling a kinship with Shakespeare, Feedback notes the recent surge of interest in various adaptations of Hamlet, including Riz Ahmed’s modern take and the gender-swapped Scarlet, all of which delve into themes of moral corruption.

Interestingly, Rob’s book mentions that graphite was in use during Shakespeare’s lifetime for writing instruments, suggesting the Bard may have opted for a pencil over a quill for some of his witty compositions.

This was reported in Stationery News, headlined “2B or not 2B?” The article suggests any pencil Shakespeare used would likely have been of pure graphite, implying it would have been 9B rather than 2B.

The Enigma of Hexagonal Water

Reader Joseph Orechino shared an email promoting the supposed health benefits of “hexagonal water,” claiming it is “10 times healthier than lemon water.”

This type of water allegedly undergoes a treatment that arranges its molecules in a hexagonal formation, though many experts agree that such structures are unstable and short-lived.

Despite the scientific skepticism, the allure of hexagonal water persists, with our archives revealing past attempts to create wine from it and other quirky concepts like “vibrating interactive water.”

The feedback poses an intriguing question: Why hexagons? To maximize water’s potential, a pentagram might be a more magical arrangement, although it might lead to accidental symbolism when a bottle is turned upside down.

Have a story for Feedback?

Share your insights with us at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your address. Explore this week’s and previous feedback on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring ‘How Flowers Shaped Our World’: Insights from David George Haskell

Posted on March 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Magnolia flowers have remarkably remained unchanged for 100 million years.

Sandra Eminger/Alamy

How Flowers Created Our World
by David George Haskell, Torva (UK); Viking (USA)

Let me be upfront: I’m not an expert in gardening. In fact, I’ve managed to kill remarkably hardy plants—including a cactus! Although I appreciate the beauty of flowers, this review reflects the perspective of a novice gardener who struggles to cultivate blooms.

Despite my lack of gardening skills, David George Haskell clearly possesses deep knowledge of flowering plants. His latest book, How Flowers Created Our World, is rich with insights drawn from his own garden and his involvement in habitat restoration projects. Haskell’s deep affection for flowers shines through every page.

Haskell is a biologist at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and a seasoned author with several books on botany and ecology. His previous work, Wild and Broken Sounds, explored animal communications and the threats they face from human activities such as noise pollution and deforestation.

His core thesis asserts that society’s perception of flowering plants is fundamentally flawed. Haskell argues that in many Western cultures, flowers are often dismissed as fragile ornaments—pretty but devoid of strength or significance.

“
Flowering plants emerged during the dinosaur era and swiftly dominated the landscape.
“

This misunderstanding contributes to flowers being viewed as “feminine,” leading many men to shy away from floral garnishes on beverages—instead opting for traditional ales, ironically brewed from flowering plants.

However, Haskell emphasizes, “Flowers have the power to change the world.” The emergence and diversification of flowering plants during the late dinosaur period were pivotal in transforming ecosystems and spurring the evolution of various life forms. Rainforests, bees, savannahs, meadows, and even humans are intricately linked to the survival of flowering plants.

To illustrate his points, Haskell dedicates eight of the book’s nine chapters to exploring different facets of flower ecology, each centered around a specific flower species.

He begins with the Magnolia, a flower that has remained largely unchanged for 100 million years, serving as a window into the history of the earliest flowering plants. Angiosperms, as flowering plants are known, appeared during the age of the dinosaurs and quickly established dominance—addressing the long-standing debates regarding their exact timeline.

As flowering plants ascended, they relegated many ancient plant groups to the periphery of ecosystems. Most of what we consider “trees” are flowering plants, as are all grasses. Haskell writes, “Earth is a planet of flowers.”

Transitioning from magnolia to goat’s beard, he showcases how rapidly and innovatively flowering plants evolve. He argues that the repeated duplication of genomic fragments is fundamental, creating a vast genetic reservoir and allowing angiosperms to develop numerous advantageous traits.

Orchids exemplify the intricate relationships flowering plants form with insects, birds, and fungi, while seagrasses illustrate how flowering plants create entire ecosystems, offering habitats for various wildlife and reshaping their environments.

In the latter half of the book, Haskell focuses on the profound connection between humans and flowering plants. Using roses as a case study, he highlights the diverse scents flowers produce and their significance in human relationships, as well as their role in the perfume industry. Linnaeus’s modern classification system was partially based on his studies of tea plants. Essentially, all major grains like wheat and corn are flowering plants. Without these vital species, sustaining the global population would be impossible.

Though Haskell passionately argues for the significance of flowering plants, this fervor can sometimes lead to overgeneralizations. He portrays a pre-angiosperm world as dull and largely devoid of color and scent, not giving credit to the ancestral visual signals that date back to early complex animals during the Cambrian period. The exact colors of primitive marine life and flora remain a mystery.

Likewise, chemical communication, an ancient evolutionary trait, is widespread and not fully understood in the vast oceans.

Despite minor critiques, Haskell rightly emphasizes the critical role of flowering plants in our ecosystems and the necessity of preserving their biodiversity. In the final chapter, he delves into the future of flowers, fluidly discussing emerging concepts such as wildflower gardens and rewilding efforts.

My only reservation regarding this book is its structure. Haskell presents the idea that “flowers are cool” in a rather simplistic manner, stringing together loosely connected essays rather than crafting a cohesive narrative. Readers shouldn’t expect a gripping story; instead, they are invited to savor Haskell’s poetic prose.

I can’t help but think Haskell may have been inspired by Marcel Proust. In In Search of Lost Time, the narrator recalls memories through the taste of a madeleine. Haskell encourages readers to appreciate the tens of millions of years of evolution evident in magnolia petals and stamens.

While Haskell’s narrative style differs from my preferred directness, his works are well-researched, insightful, and vividly articulate. They possess great depth and merit.

Michael Marshall is a science writer based in Devon, UK, and the author of Genesis Quest.

3 Other Great Books About Non-Animals

The Plant Said by Monica Gagliano

Discover how plants can “hear” caterpillars munching and even exhibit learning and memory. Gagliano emphasizes that these capabilities often remain unnoticed due to their slower pace of operation compared to humans.

Find the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard

Explore the concept of a “wood wide web”—a network of roots and fungi enabling trees to communicate with one another. Simard’s research has been pivotal to our understanding of this intricate natural phenomenon.

Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake

Fungi, a unique and often misunderstood group of organisms, are central to our lives. Sheldrake dives into their roles in food production and the profound experiences they can provide.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Uncovering Neanderthal Hunting Techniques: Insights from Ancient Elephant Bones

Posted on March 25, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Evidence of Neanderthal hunting: Elephant bones from Lehringen, Germany

Credit: VOLKER_MINKUS

In the back room of the modern Schöningen Research Museum in Germany, old cardboard boxes house a fascinating discovery: remnants from Rehringen, a village 150 kilometers away.

In 1948, 125,000-year-old Paleoloxodon antique bones were excavated from an ancient lake’s bed in Rehringen. While such bones are not uncommon, this particular set contained a remarkable 2.3-meter-long spear embedded between the ribs.

This yew spear is recognized as the oldest complete spear ever discovered. The Rehringen Spear stands as the only known spear found alongside the skeleton of an extinct species. Since Neanderthals were the only humans in Europe at the time, this spear provides critical evidence that they hunted large game rather than scavenged. This was a groundbreaking discovery.

However, challenges arose. The excavation led by Alexander Rosenbrock, a local school principal and amateur archaeologist, revealed that around half of the bones were removed before he, his daughter, and volunteers arrived at the scene.

By the time Rosenbrock reached the site, some bones had already been stolen, and without a camera, he couldn’t sketch the crucial positions of the bones and spear. A lengthy legal battle ensued over the discovery, ultimately allowing Rosenbrock to keep the findings in Verden, which contributed to their obscurity. Sadly, the teacher passed away in the 1950s without publishing his findings.

Over the next 75 years, skepticism around Rehringen emerged. Were the spear and bones truly found together, or was it mere coincidence? Researchers accessed the findings twice but concluded that the elephant bones lacked evidence of butchery.

Excavation at Rehringen, 1948

Credit: Archives of the Cultural Heritage Office of Lower Saxony

Fast forward to 2025. Ivo Verheijen, the bone expert at Schöningen, began investigating the Rehringen finds.

“We were informed of just a few boxes,” Verheijen noted. “But upon reaching the museum, we discovered truckloads stored in the attic.”

The Schöningen Center, located 300 meters from an active excavation site since the mid-1990s, previously uncovered 10 spears around 300,000 years old from a nearby quarry. The Rehringen spear, alongside the Clacton spear, represents one of the oldest weapons from the Paleolithic era.

In 2017, the Schöningen team made headlines by discovering a complete ancient elephant, granting Verheijen substantial experience with these bones before switching his focus to Rehringen.

As he examined the artifacts, Verheijen removed an old box containing a freshwater shell from Rehringen and metadata from the excavation. He revealed that the label was a 50-million-mark banknote from the post-World War I inflation era, pointing out, “It used to be printed on one side only.”

This project resembled a cold-case investigation for Verheijen and his team. Fortunately, the box contained not just elephant bones but also flint tools and documentation of Rosenbrock’s work, preserved by his daughter Waltraut Deibel-Rosenbrock after his passing.

It didn’t take long for Verheijen to determine that the Lehringen elephant was slaughtered. “I quickly spotted distinct cut marks,” he stated. “It’s surprising that they weren’t previously noted.”

Cut marks found on an elephant rib

Credit: Ivo Verheijen

The elephant’s remains belonged to a young male, over 3.5 meters tall at the shoulder. Verheijen noted that solitary males are often easier targets for hunters.

Examination revealed that not only had the animal been butchered externally, but internal organs had also been removed, indicating that it was freshly dead when Neanderthals approached. It is highly probable that it died with the spear embedded in its side, suggesting a direct correlation between the bones and the weapon found on-site.

Early humans utilized simple flint tools to extract as much as possible from the carcass, leaving behind bones for scavengers. Interestingly, not every bone displayed signs of butchery—bear, beaver, and aurochs remains were also present, indicating that Neanderthals regularly hunted near the lake.

Verheijen suggested that modern elephants often head towards water when injured. Therefore, after being speared, the elephant likely made its way toward the lake, where it may have been pursued until it collapsed. One spear ultimately broke underneath it, which could explain some of the scene’s findings. The research team plans to further analyze the spear.

Even in its initial phases, the project has already painted a vivid picture of Neanderthal hunting behavior.

Verheijen aims to preserve Rehringen’s bones for exhibition, emphasizing, “This site is among the most significant Neanderthal locations in Germany. Despite being previously overlooked, we are dedicated to giving it the recognition it deserves.”

Explore the Discovery Tour: Archeology, Human Origins, and Paleontology

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Unraveling Neanderthal Decline: Insights from Genetic Clues

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Reconstructed Neanderthal Man and Woman at Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann, Germany

AP Photo/Martin Meissner/Alamy

Reconstructed Neanderthal man and woman — Reconstructed Neanderthal Man and Woman at Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann, Germany

AP Photo/Martin Meissner/Alamy

Neanderthal DNA analysis has significantly advanced our understanding of the challenging eras leading to the extinction of these ancient humans.

As climate cooled, Neanderthal populations diminished, ultimately restricting them to southwestern France. With a subsequent warming trend, these ancient humans began to expand their range. However, due to a drastic reduction in genetic diversity, even widespread populations exhibited similar DNA profiles.

This scenario—a small, isolated population with limited genetic variability—likely contributed to their extinction.

Having inhabited Europe and Asia for hundreds of thousands of years, Neanderthals vanished from the archaeological record around 40,000 years ago. Previous DNA studies indicate significant genetic changes occurred as their populations dwindled, especially among late Neanderthals from approximately 60,000 years ago, who displayed genetic similarities distinct from their earlier counterparts. “There must have been some population turnover towards the end of Neanderthal history,” states Cosimo Posth from the University of Tübingen, Germany.

To examine these changes, Posth and his team sequenced DNA from 10 Neanderthals across six locations in Belgium, France, Germany, and Serbia. They focused on the mitochondrial DNA inherited from mothers and compared it to 49 previously sequenced genomes.

The findings revealed that nearly all Neanderthals who lived between 60,000 and 40,000 years ago belonged to a single lineage that emerged around 65,000 years ago, with no traces of older lineages. “This strongly indicates that a population turnover occurred,” affirms Posth.

Additionally, the research team analyzed a database of Neanderthal remains, noting a significant geographic contraction in population density towards southwestern Europe from 80,000 to 70,000 years ago, especially concentrated in southwestern France. “This was likely triggered by climate change,” explains Posth. “Around 75,000 years ago, a major ice age commenced, prompting the Neanderthals to retreat further into southwestern Europe.”

Entrance to Pešturina Cave in Serbia, site of notable Neanderthal discoveries

Luc Doyon and Dušan Mihailović

The emerging lineage likely originated in southwestern France, expanding after the warming climate of over 60,000 years ago. However, despite this geographic expansion, the overall population size did not significantly increase.

One remarkable exception is an individual named Thorin, discovered in Mandolin Cave, France. At approximately 50,000 years old, Thorin’s DNA indicates strong ties to more ancient lineages, revealing that some genetic lines likely survived the previous population decline. Posth notes that Thorin is “the only one who doesn’t fit into the established narrative.”

The ability to trace Neanderthal migrations enriches our understanding of their history, according to Tarshika Vimala, who researched Thorin at the University of California, Berkeley.

Vimala also highlighted previous findings that confirmed fluctuations in Neanderthal populations, leading to the loss of specific lineages. A 2021 study suggested that population replacement occurred roughly 100,000 years ago, possibly as a response to climate changes.

Neanderthals’ pattern of living in small, isolated bands may have heightened their extinction risk. Vimala estimates their group sizes ranged between 3 and 60 individuals. Prof. Poss remarked that this could have allowed harmful genetic variations to develop, increasing the vulnerability of each population to random events.

Discovery Tour: Archeology, Human Origins, and Paleontology

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Is DNA Discovery Possible on Mars? Insights from Cyworthy

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Since British pop legend David Bowie posed the question in 1971, “Does life exist on Mars?”, NASA has successfully landed five rovers on the Red Planet. The Curiosity rover, which touched down in Gale Crater in 2012, uncovered rocks formed in a shallow lake approximately 3.6 billion years ago, indicating a once habitable environment. In 2021, the Perseverance rover began exploring Jezero Crater, where traces of ancient life may be found at the base of a lake dating back 3.7 billion years.

Both Curiosity and Perseverance have discovered evidence of complex carbon-containing molecules within Martian lakebed rocks. Organisms on Earth consist of similar organic molecules, leading astrobiologists to speculate that these Martian compounds might indicate past life. However, it’s important to note that organic molecules can also arise from non-biological processes, such as interactions between gases and minerals at high temperatures. Thus, more conclusive evidence is needed to confirm the existence of ancient Martian life.

A recent study by researchers at the Center for Astrobiology in Madrid, Spain, explored whether DNA could function as a potential biomarker in Martian rocks. They posited that DNA is universal among Earth’s life forms and deemed it “the most crucial biological molecule for life.” Only life forms create this molecule. Furthermore, many conditions that degrade DNA quickly on Earth—such as the presence of water, heat, and microorganisms—are absent in the cold, dry climate of Mars.

One major obstacle in detecting ancient DNA on Mars is the planet’s surface, which is constantly bombarded by intense shock waves. Cosmic and solar radiation can rapidly degrade DNA and organic molecules. Prior research has indicated that DNA is more likely to survive radiation damage when protected within rock. Hence, the researchers aimed to examine whether Mars-like rocks could shield DNA from radiation levels equivalent to around 100 million years of exposure on the planet’s surface.

Scientists will not gain direct access to Martian lake rocks until future sample return missions, such as NASA/ESA’s Mars Sample Return or the Chinese Astronomy-3 mission, are conducted. The researchers collected samples from various rock ages formed in lakes and shallow marine environments worldwide. They specifically targeted rocks with remnants of an ancient microbial community known as microorganisms and a total organic carbon concentration similar to that of Martian rocks. The samples included 2,800-year-old lake rocks from Mexico, 541-million-year-old shallow-water rocks from Morocco, and 2.93-billion-year-old iron-rich rocks from Ontario, Canada, featuring minerals akin to those in Jezero Crater on Mars.

The team crushed the rocks, dividing them into six samples each, sealed in glass bottles. They exposed three samples to radiation levels equivalent to 136 million years on the Martian surface, while leaving the other three unexposed for comparison. DNA was extracted from each sample and examined using a technique that enables reliable identification of short DNA fragments known as nanopore sequencing. This method also generates quality scores for each DNA fragment to assess the accuracy of specific DNA sequences.

The analysis revealed that unirradiated samples contained higher quantities of DNA fragments, correlating with a greater presence of organic carbon. This suggests that the DNA originated from contemporary microbial communities residing in the rocks, while the organic carbon was derived from long-deceased microbes. Thus, the researchers inferred that modern microbes were consuming ancient organisms; the more food available, the larger the microbial populations grow. These findings support the proposition that rich organic carbon sites like ancient crater lakes are prime targets for future life-detection missions.

In irradiated samples, DNA quality diminished and fragmented due to radiation exposure. For instance, the DNA from irradiated samples of Mexican lake microorganisms exhibited quality scores that were, on average, 53% lower, with DNA reads averaging 85% shorter compared to unirradiated samples. Nevertheless, the research team managed to identify microorganisms that contributed around 2% to 9% of the DNA in the irradiated samples, despite significant degradation.

The researchers concluded that identifiable DNA fragments could persist in Martian rocks for over 100 million years. They proposed that this sensitive sequencing approach should be implemented in future Mars rovers to search for evidence of past life and evaluate the planet’s biological viability. While these results are promising for astrobiologists, challenges remain, such as the presence of toxic salts that could further degrade DNA and concerns regarding pollution from terrestrial life. The research team recommended developing stringent protocols for decontaminating Martian rock samples and addressing external contamination.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Must-Read This Week: Katrina Manson’s Chilling Insights on Project Maven

Posted on March 21, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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Project Maven: An Overview of AI in Warfare

Credit: Devon Bistarkey, Defense Innovation Unit

Department of Defense drone operators test unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) during the Defense Innovation Unit's Prize Challenge focused on Blue UAS Platforms and cybersecurity requirements from November 2-6, 2024, at Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California. — Project Maven: An Overview of AI in Warfare

Credit: Devon Bistarkey, Defense Innovation Unit

Project Maven
Katrina Manson, WW Norton

The Israeli military is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for target identification in the Gaza Strip, the U.S. is strategizing similarly against Iran, and Ukraine is innovating with advanced drones. AI warfare is not a distant reality; it is unfolding today.

Exploring the intricate global policies, potential advantages, challenges, and ethical dilemmas of military AI usage will occupy scholars for decades. However, Katrina Manson’s Project Maven takes a different approach, utilizing insights from over 200 interviews to narrate the U.S. military’s path toward AI warfare—a glimpse into one of the 800 AI initiatives housed within the Pentagon.

Initiated in 2017, Project Maven aims to develop systems that process and analyze extensive drone-collected data. With traditional human analysis lagging behind the data influx from drones, Manson notes that the project faced initial hurdles. Within eight months, it was deployed in Somalia, where the algorithm misidentified common objects—such as detecting school buses in clouds.

The narrative takes us back in time with a project leader reflecting on his experiences as an intelligence officer in Afghanistan, as he struggles to plan missions armed only with outdated technology. How do we define the enemy, ensure safety, and measure success in warfare?

In the chaos of war, human fallibility prevails; efficiency dwindles, fatigue mounts, and errors arise. Proponents of AI, including Project Maven architects, believe AI could mitigate these factors. Their vision extends even further—eliminating human deliberation from targeting decisions, allowing AI to execute missions with speed unmatched by human operators.

“Machines can’t be worse than humans,” remarks an insider. The Maven team refined its tools, attempting to persuade frontline operators to adopt these technologies. While improvements appeared, mistakes persisted.

Since then, the U.S. and NATO allies have integrated Maven into various conflicts. About 32 companies are now collaborating on this initiative, with 25,000 U.S. military personnel logging into the system regularly. It’s also been utilized in border security and drug trafficking operations throughout the Caribbean. This prompts a critical question: can a state wield such tools without infringing on citizens’ rights?

Perhaps most alarming is Manson’s assertion that efforts to automate warfare are advancing, with drones like the “Goalkeeper” and “Whiplash” capable of autonomously identifying and neutralizing threats. How will AI make decisions in high-stakes scenarios, reminiscent of Soviet Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Petrov’s pivotal choice to avert nuclear war in 1983?

The insights presented in this work focus less on AI technology itself and more on the interplay of Pentagon bureaucracy and Silicon Valley’s readiness to engage in ethically controversial projects for profit. Access to Manson’s revelations is significant; however, military secrecy means the specific technologies developed and their applications may remain undisclosed for years.

Modern warfare has become dehumanized, where operators monitor deadly situations from thousands of miles away through screens and decide to strike. This detachment risks making the act of war less burdensome, allowing its ramifications to be more easily ignored.

“
Goalkeeper flying drones and Whiplash naval drones can autonomously find and neutralize targets.
“

It is imperative that the power bestowed by AI in warfare is approached with the seriousness it deserves. Yet, Manson shares a chilling anecdote about an interviewee expressing a desire to join Project Maven to “reduce the non-American population.”

Unraveling Our Protein Obsession: Insights from a New Book

Posted on March 16, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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Understanding Your Protein Needs

Maximilian Stock Limited/Science Photo Library

Protein
Samantha King and Gavin Weedon
Duke University Press

Protein has become a cultural phenomenon, highlighted when TV personality Khloé Kardashian advertised protein popcorn on the same day I heard comedian Stephen Merchant discuss its importance on his podcast.

Vital for health, protein contributes to muscle building, infection control, and hormone regulation. While it doesn’t surpass carbohydrates and fats in importance, it’s a key player in contemporary wellness trends. It’s timely that the book Protein: The Birth of a Nutritional Superstar has been released.

The authors, sociologists Samantha King from Queen’s University in Ontario and Gavin Weedon from Nottingham Trent University, explore the cultural obsession with protein. However, their analysis often lacks direct answers for readers’ pressing questions.

Instead of diving right into the popular protein discourse, they start with foundational knowledge about amino acids and even the etymology of the protein term. Examining protein’s rise, they note its broad appeal: promoting fitness for Millennials and Gen Xers, providing energy for baby boomers, and preventing muscle loss in seniors.

<p>Both generational groups seem particularly targeted by protein marketing. King and Weeden suggest Millennials are influenced by the "manosphere," where fitness training acts as a remedy for diminished masculinity. Conversely, older adults view protein as a political and economic strategy to mitigate health expenditures related to sarcopenia, or the age-related decline in muscle mass.</p>
<p>While these points hold some merit, they often feel abstract. King and Weeden provide insufficient evidence to substantiate their arguments.</p>
<p>Interestingly, many individuals keen on protein—like those consuming protein bars—are unlikely to be protein deficient. As a health journalist, I've observed that achieving adequate protein intake in high-income nations with a diet of 2000-2500 calories daily is generally straightforward. The <a href="https://www.nutrition.org.uk/nutritional-information/protein/">UK's current dietary guidelines</a> recommend 0.75 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight; easily achievable through a few nutritious snacks and meals. For active individuals, this intake should be increased.</p>
<p>My hope is that readers will engage with <i>Protein</i> to determine whether existing guidelines warrant reconsideration. Questions remain—should protein intake adjust over a lifetime or menstrual cycle? Is excessive protein consumption harmful? What vegan options provide optimal protein?</p>
<p>Research regarding these concerns remains sparse and often contradictory. Excess protein intake leads to breakdown and excretion through urine, suggesting that indulging in protein popcorn might simply result in a trip to the restroom. Additionally, studies indicate that <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3005218">excessive long-term protein consumption</a> can strain kidneys and elevate heart disease risks.</p>
<p>The book <i>Protein</i> could greatly benefit from further exploration of these topics. Perhaps sociologists aren't best equipped to tackle nutritional inquiries. However, the release at a moment when dietary protein is under scrutiny means many readers will likely close the book still pondering, "How much protein do we really need?"</p>

<h2><em><strong>Two Additional Insightful Books on Nutrition</strong></em></h2>

<p><i>
    <figure class="ArticleImage">
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            <img class="Image" alt="Book Cover - Off the Scale: The Inside Story of Ozempic and the Obesity Treatment Race" width="312" height="468" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=500 500w" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" loading="lazy" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2518621" data-caption="" data-credit=""/>
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</i></p>
<p>
    <a href="https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/off-the-scales-the-inside-story-of-ozempic-and-the-race-to-cure-obesity-aimee-donnellan"><i><strong>Off the Scale</strong><br/></i></a>by Amy Donnellan
</p>
<p>Reuters columnist Donnellan advocates for a shift in how we perceive obesity, highlighting the potential of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic in combating associated stigma.</p>

<p>
    <figure class="ArticleImage">
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            <img class="Image" alt="Book Cover - Ferment by Tim Spector" width="312" height="468" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg?width=400 400w" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" loading="lazy" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2518622" data-caption="" data-credit=""/>
        </div>
    </figure>
</p>
<p>
    <i><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/457755/ferment-by-spector-tim/9781787334656"><strong>Ferment</strong></a><br/></i>by Tim Spector
</p>
<p>Spector, founder of ZOE nutrition, effectively discusses the advantages of incorporating fermented foods into the diet without pushing his products.</p>

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Challenges of Birth in Our Extinct Australopithecus Relatives: Insights into Evolution

Posted on March 13, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of Australopithecus sediba carrying a toddler

John Bavaro Fine Art/Science Photo Library

Childbirth posed significant challenges for our ape-like ancestors, similar to the risks women face today. Recent findings on the pelvis of Australopithecus indicate that childbirth exerted substantial forces on the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of perineal lacerations.

“Our research shows that Australopithecines closely resemble modern humans,” shares Pierre Fremondier, a midwife at the University of Aix-Marseille, France. “With multiple births, women likely faced a heightened risk of pelvic floor disorders.”

In modern human biology, vaginal delivery necessitates considerable force to navigate a baby’s large head through a relatively narrow pelvis. The pelvic floor, which connects the left and right sides of the pelvis, is often vulnerable, resulting in injuries during childbirth. Estimates suggest that 1 in 4 women experience pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence and organ prolapse.

Frémondier and his team aimed to understand if our extinct ancestors encountered similar childbirth challenges. Their focus was on Australopithecus, which inhabited Africa between 2 to 4 million years ago. These early humans, although bipedal, maintained adaptations for arboreal life and were likely tool users, potentially leading down the lineage of the Homo genus, to which modern humans belong.

From the limited fossil record, particularly the pelvis, researchers deduced that the birth canal of Australopithecus was oval—broad side-to-side yet narrow front-to-back. In contrast, modern humans exhibit a more circular shape, while nonhuman primates like chimpanzees possess an opposite configuration.

To explore the birthing dynamics of Australopithecus, the team generated simulations using pelvis models from three different species: Australopithecus afarensis, Australopithecus africanus, and Australopithecus sediba. To accurately model pelvic floor muscles, they scanned pregnant women’s MRI images, creating a three-dimensional representation adapted to the Australopithecus pelvis. This model simulated the birthing process and estimated the forces exerted on the pelvic floor.

The analysis revealed that the pelvic floor of Australopithecus experienced forces ranging from 4.9 to 10.7 MPa, comparable to the 5.3 to 10.5 MPa observed in modern human childbirth.

The research team successfully leveraged various features of the Australopithecus pelvis to refine their models, correlating findings with live human birth data, according to Leah Betti from University College London. “This methodology ensures the model is robust.”

However, caution remains regarding the outcomes. Betti notes that the pelvic floor structure of Australopithecus may differ from modern humans, impacting their resistance to tearing. Additionally, simulations with two modern births revealed one scenario where the baby did not engage in typical canal rotation, indicating a vital missing factor in the simulations.

“The evidence we have is limited,” states Betti. With only three pelvis samples from different Australopithecus species, the dataset is considered small. The specifics of early human pelvic structures remain largely unknown.

“We’re just beginning to explore this area of research,” concludes Fremondier.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

3 Essential Password Insights from Security Experts You Need to Know

Posted on March 13, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Passwords: A Double-Edged Sword

tete_escape/Shutterstock

Passwords are both a curse and a blessing — Passwords: A Double-Edged Sword

tete_escape/Shutterstock

Passwords play a crucial role in our digital security. They serve as protective barriers for our data and sensitive information, yet they often become burdensome to manage and remember. Cybersecurity expert Jake Moore from ESET shares three essential tips to enhance your password strategy and fend off potential cyber threats.

1. Embrace a Password Manager for Enhanced Security

Although I am an advocate for password managers, their adoption remains low. As highlighted by recent studies, only about one-third of users leverage this valuable tool. This statistic is surprising, given that password managers can generate complex passwords and store them securely, alleviating the mental load associated with remembering them.

Relying on personal knowledge or familiar words when creating passwords exposes you to risks, especially if these details are known to hackers. Password managers also mitigate the danger of reusing passwords across multiple accounts, which can lead to widespread vulnerabilities if one account is compromised.

Many users may hesitate to utilize password managers due to misconceptions regarding their security. However, the truth is that password managers encrypt your data on your device, ensuring only you have access through a strong master password. Your information is securely stored in an unreadable format that even your provider cannot access.

2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication

Even the most secure password can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cybersecurity experts recommend a password length of 14-16 characters to protect against unauthorized attempts. However, multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an essential layer of security to verify your identity during logins.

MFA requires an additional verification method, such as a code sent to your phone. While SMS is common, using authenticator apps is a more secure alternative. It’s unfortunate that platforms like Instagram implement MFA only after users reach a specific follower count, rather than making it mandatory during sign-up. This approach prioritizes convenience over security, leaving many accounts vulnerable.

Prioritizing user convenience over robust security measures could leave many worried about compromised accounts. Thus, enable MFA wherever possible.

3. Transition to Passwordless Solutions

The traditional password is evolving as modern alternatives become available. We are transitioning toward a password-free society, which is a welcome shift.

Passkeys are a prime example of this innovation. They enhance security by minimizing human error—allowing users to sign in via secure methods like fingerprints stored on devices. While the technology operates seamlessly in the background, it simplifies the user experience while effectively mitigating security risks associated with traditional passwords.

Some may express skepticism about the simplicity of passkeys, fearing ease equates to vulnerability. However, the underlying technology works tirelessly to maintain security and protection.

While passkeys are not universally accepted yet and can cause issues if devices are lost, they represent a groundbreaking advancement in eliminating one of the weakest points in cybersecurity: the traditional password.

As shared with Chris Stokel-Walker:

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Drug Overdose Deaths Have Dropped Dramatically in the U.S.: Key Insights and Trends

Posted on March 12, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Rapid Decline in Opioid Fentanyl-Related Deaths in the US

Thomas Simonetti/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Declining Opioid Deaths in the US — Rapid Decline in Opioid Fentanyl-Related Deaths in the US

Thomas Simonetti/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The United States has witnessed a significant drop in drug overdose deaths, likely attributed to a decrease in the purity and potency of illegally supplied fentanyl. But the pressing question remains: Are we witnessing a pivotal moment in the opioid epidemic, or just a transient dip?

Since 1999, the US has recorded over 1 million drug overdose fatalities. Despite a slight decline in 2018, fatalities escalated almost annually until 2023. Notably, there has been a 3% decrease in deaths, followed by a steep 26% drop in the subsequent year.

To analyze this trend, Joseph Friedman and researchers at the University of California, San Diego, examined overdose statistics from 1999 to 2024. Their findings were based on data sourced from the National Vital Statistics System and the CDC’s WONDER database.

The analysis revealed that fentanyl-related fatalities fell from approximately 73,000 in 2023 to under 48,000 in 2024, marking a 34% reduction. Meanwhile, deaths from non-fentanyl stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine saw a 4% increase, rising from about 18,000 to 19,000.

This indicates that the decline in fentanyl potency may be driving this favorable trend. “If we aim to enhance access to harm reduction and treatment services, we might observe more success with non-fentanyl drugs,” stated Chelsea Shover, a researcher at UCLA.

Fentanyl-related deaths have diminished across various demographics, including race, gender, and age. “A decline concentrated in particular demographic groups might suggest policy influences,” Shober noted. “However, the broad reduction implies it could be linked to the drug’s characteristics itself.”

Daniel Bush, a Northwestern University professor, arrived at similar conclusions in a recent study. Their analysis of overdose fatalities characterized the most significant drop in deaths involving both fentanyl and other drugs across five categories: cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription opioids, heroin, and methadone. For instance, fatalities associated with both cocaine and fentanyl fell by over 35% during this time, while cocaine-related deaths alone increased by nearly 5%.

Moreover, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration reported that seized fentanyl powder exhibited a significant purity level of approximately 25%, indicating that additives like flour and baking soda accounted for the remaining 75%. This figure has since decreased to around 11% by late 2024.

This decline may stem from a crackdown by China, a major source of fentanyl precursors, which began enforcement in November 2023 after discussions with U.S. authorities. However, skepticism remains. “The timing of these restrictions doesn’t align neatly with the observed reduction in overdose deaths,” cautioned Shober.

This transformation might signal a critical juncture in the opioid crisis. Researchers perceive the epidemic as evolving in four distinct waves: the initial two waves consisted of fatalities from prescription opioids and heroin, tapering around ten years ago. The third wave, marked by fentanyl, peaked only in 2020. The current fourth wave, involving both fentanyl and meth, appears to be declining. “All the unique waves we encountered in the past are now dissipating,” remarked Friedman.

Nonetheless, it’s still too early to ascertain if this is a genuine turning point in the crisis. “The evidence indicating the permanence of these supply changes from 2023 to 2024 remains insufficient,” Shober cautioned. “Early overdose data suggests that the decline may be plateauing.”

Other substances, like xylazine—an animal sedative often mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl—are also seeing increased presence in the illicit drug market, highlighting the need for continued vigilance. As Friedman noted, “This is not a cause for celebration; we must remain alert to evolving trends.”

Sam Stern of Temple University Hospital emphasized that overdose deaths are merely one aspect of the broader drug crisis. Another animal sedative, medetomidine—which first appeared in the U.S. drug supply in 2022—induces more severe withdrawal symptoms than traditional opioids, leading to a rise in patients requiring intensive care for withdrawal in 2024. “Historically, this wasn’t common practice, but now it happens daily,” he claimed.

While overdose fatalities may be trending downward, they are projected to still claim nearly 80,000 lives in the U.S. in 2024. “The decline doesn’t signify the end of the crisis,” Bush warned. “We are still experiencing substantial loss of life.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Understanding How the Brain Recognizes Blocked Objects: Insights from Sciworthy

Posted on March 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The human brain plays a crucial role in interpreting our surroundings, primarily through our five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. However, these senses often provide incomplete information. For instance, many objects we perceive are only partially visible. Our brains utilize prior knowledge and expectations to bridge these gaps in perception, a process known as sensory reasoning.

We engage in sensory reasoning so frequently that it often goes unnoticed. Consider a coffee table: without sensory reasoning, recognizing it when you place your drink down would be challenging. Despite its commonplace nature, the mechanisms behind sensory reasoning remain unclear. Recently, a team from the University of California, Berkeley, embarked on a quest to uncover the brain processes that underpin sensory reasoning in mice.

Earlier studies have shown that mice, much like humans, experience phenomena such as the Kanizsa illusion. This optical illusion highlights sensory reasoning, displaying a white triangle that appears to be present, even though only three incomplete circles and angles are visible. Researchers have identified similar responses to such illusions in mice. The Berkeley team aimed to further this research by observing mouse brains to draw parallels with human sensory reasoning.

“Kanizsa Triangle” by Fibonacci is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0. Most observers perceive a white triangle in the center rather than three incomplete circles.

To investigate sensory reasoning, researchers utilized two primary methods to monitor brain activity in mice. First, a device called Neuropixel was surgically implanted into the heads of 14 mice, facilitating the observation of numerous neurons simultaneously. The second method involved two-photon imaging, utilizing a specialized microscope to examine individual neuronal activity in four other mice.

These techniques offer complementary advantages and limitations. While Neuropixels provide a comprehensive overview of brain activity, two-photon imaging focuses on single neurons or small groups. The research team conducted experiments on two distinct groups of mice: one utilizing Neuropixels and the other employing two-photon imaging.

To decode sensory reasoning mechanisms, the researchers pinpointed neurons in mice that responded to the perceived white triangle in the Kanizsa illusion. They monitored brain activity while presenting two types of visuals: illusions and real shapes. They discovered that area V1, located at the back of the brain, exhibited similar activity patterns in response to both the illusion and actual shapes.

The study identified two distinct neuron types in area V1 contributing to sensory reasoning. The first type, known as optical illusion shape encoders, only activated upon viewing illusions—essentially shapes that don’t exist. The second neuron type, called segment responders, displayed consistent activity regardless of illusions, responding to specific shapes within the images.

Employing machine learning algorithms, the research team compared both neuron types. They found that optical illusion shape encoders, believed to facilitate the perception of illusions, have stronger connections to regions responsible for higher-level visual processing beyond V1. This insight implies that similar neurons may assist the brain in leveraging expectations to compensate for missing information, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear.

The researchers postulated that partial visual inputs could activate the optical illusion shape encoder, which, in turn, stimulates other neurons in V1, creating the sensation that an illusory shape genuinely exists. To validate this, they used a laser to stimulate the optical illusion shape encoders in resting mice, prompting activation across V1 and inducing the experience of viewing a tangible shape.

Their findings revealed that three interconnected circuits facilitate the experience of sensory reasoning in mice. Initially, segment responders detect shapes and alert higher processing regions of the brain regarding missing information. These advanced regions subsequently activate the optical illusion shape encoder, which completes the pattern and triggers the overall V1 activation, giving the impression of observing a real shape.

Although the study concentrated on illusions, the researchers posited that their discoveries are relevant to sensory reasoning more broadly. As our scientific grasp of brain functions like sensory reasoning evolves, future research may extend these findings to encompass additional cognitive processes, such as memory and language.

Post views: 61

Source: sciworthy.com

Bridging the Shocking Knowledge Gap in Women’s Health: Key Insights and Solutions

Posted on March 9, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Investing in women’s health is investing in life.

Gates Archive

mDoc health coaches provide health check-ups at Balogun market, Lagos, Nigeria - September 14, 2023 — Investing in women’s health is investing in life.

Gates Archive

As a former pediatrician in Karachi, Pakistan, I cared for countless premature infants born due to pre-eclampsia. These tiny lives often rested in the palm of my hand, struggling for breath. Unfortunately, not all of them survived.

The complexities of pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia remain poorly understood. We lack clarity on the root causes and preventive measures for premature births, contributing to the global maternal and infant mortality crisis. Every day, over 700 women and 6,500 newborns lose their lives due to pregnancy or childbirth complications. The highest rates are in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, exacerbated by weak healthcare systems, inequitable access to care, extreme poverty, and inadequate infrastructure.

Astonishing knowledge gaps exist across women’s health issues, including menopause. The norm of women suffering for a decade seems acceptable, yet is scarcely recognized as a significant issue. This oversight stems not from scientific challenges but from a pervasive apathy. Women’s experiences have been largely overlooked, impacting what is researched and what remains unaddressed.

Currently, less than 1 percent of healthcare research focuses on women’s health outcomes outside of cancer. This underinvestment and the lack of female participation in clinical trials leave fundamental questions in women’s health unanswered. For instance, while we know the symptoms of heart disease—the leading cause of death for women globally—differ by individual, the reasons remain a mystery. Moreover, the pathways for drugs into the brain are known, yet how they affect the female reproductive system is largely unexplored, unlike the extensive knowledge we possess about men’s health, such as the effects of Viagra.

A Ray of Hope

Progress is being made, and I’ve observed a shift towards serious discussions on investing in women’s health at global health and medical innovation conferences. Decision-makers and investors are beginning to acknowledge the severity of the issue and the potential benefits of addressing it following decades of neglect.

“
When a problem is treated as unnoticeable rather than unacceptable, finding a solution is never a priority.
“

Recognizing the challenges is only the first step; we must actively allocate resources and focus on the multifaceted issues surrounding women’s health.

I am particularly excited about the transformative potential of innovative research and tools. For example, the vaginal microbiome—a balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria—has only recently gained attention. Understanding its role in pregnancy outcomes, like preterm birth, and women’s vulnerability to infections like HIV is crucial.

My team at the Gates Foundation is funding research to uncover how the vaginal microbiome affects pregnancy outcomes and women’s susceptibility to STIs. Although we’re in early stages, promising innovations are emerging that could benefit millions of women.

For instance, interventions promoting healthy bacteria dominance in the vagina might help prevent STIs. Conditions like bacterial vaginosis, while mild, can lead to severe pregnancy complications, including premature birth and an increased risk of postnatal issues such as chronic pain and infertility.

Last year, the Gates Foundation committed to $2.5 billion for women’s health innovation. However, this amount is insufficient. We need to bolster collaboration with public and private sector entities globally. The UK has a unique opportunity to build on its health innovation reputation, enhancing lives both domestically and internationally while advancing its vital economic sectors.

Investing in women’s health equates to investing in their lives and well-being. A healthy woman fosters creativity, is more engaged with her family, and is an active participant in her community. This is a fundamental truth. On this International Women’s Day, let’s turn this truth into action by urging leaders to prioritize and resource women’s health initiatives now.

Anita Zaidi is Chair of Gender Equality at the Gates Foundation

Source: www.newscientist.com

Engaging Canadians: Creative Ways to Share Snowy Weather Insights Using Polar Bears

Posted on March 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

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Exploring Unconventional Measurements

Since the Golden Retriever became a quirky unit for measuring ice blocks, our feedback inbox has been flooded with examples of unique and often surprising units of measurement.

Craig Downing, who describes himself as “one of those readers who checks the back of every issue,” shared a fascinating insight about the Rideau Canal in his hometown of Ottawa, Canada. Every winter, the canal transforms into the largest ice skating rink in the world, requiring meticulous snow removal for a smooth surface.

According to a statement from the National Capital Commission, “For every centimeter of snowfall, our crew clears 125,000 kg of snow from the skateway, equivalent to the weight of approximately 450 polar bears.”

Craig expressed his confusion: “I usually visualize snow depth in terms of ‘shovel loads’ or ‘knee-deep driveways.’” Moreover, living in Ottawa, he has yet to encounter a polar bear firsthand, limiting his experience with these majestic creatures.

The average polar bear reportedly weighs around 277.8 kilograms (612 pounds). However, gender nuances play a significant role; adult male bears can weigh between 350 and 600 kg (775 to 1,300 lb), while females typically range from 150 to 290 kg (330 to 650 lb), with some exceptional cases reaching up to 800 kg.

This lack of specification raises questions regarding many unconventional units. Steve Tees submitted a query, stating, “I keep hearing about ‘xxx warehouses’ causing traffic delays. Can someone clarify the size of these warehouses?”

The Sounds We Dread

Various sounds can hinder focus. While nails on a chalkboard are notoriously unpleasant, other common annoyances include loud chewing and vigorous teeth brushing by strangers.

One particularly despised sound is the high-pitched screech produced when adhesive tape is pulled from a surface, which deters many from DIY projects.

But understanding the science behind this noise could help. For example, an experiment published in Physical Review E explores the physics of peeling off cellophane tape. Researchers employed high-speed cameras and microphones to study the tape’s removal speed, discovering that “microscopic cracks travel through the tape at supersonic speeds, producing a shock wave that manifests as a high-pitched screech.”

We eagerly anticipate feedback from follow-up studies aiming to demonstrate quiet tape removal methods.

On Retractions and Their Implications

Our feedback section takes a keen interest in the world of retracted scientific papers. Whether due to questionable graphics generated by AI, manipulated images, or dubious research claims, these cases pique our curiosity.

A prominent example is a 2026 retraction from Pharmacological Research and Prospects. Originally published in 2022, the paper investigated ivermectin—an anti-parasitic drug controversially labeled a potential cure for COVID-19 and suggested for liver cancer treatment. We believe such claims warrant skepticism.

The retraction notice indicated it was “by agreement” between the authors and relevant parties, prolonging the discussion long past its culmination.

It was stated that “the corresponding author was not involved in the submission process, did not sign an open access agreement, and did not review or approve the final manuscript version before submission,” raising serious concerns.

Furthermore, the journal’s investigation uncovered evidence of image duplication from previous publications. This is, without a doubt, troubling.

Yet, the authors maintained, “the conclusions of the article are otherwise unaffected.” This left the first author musing on how conclusions could remain valid despite significant discrepancies.

Our interpretation is clear: once a paper is retracted, it loses credibility, and its conclusions are no longer taken seriously.

Have a story for feedback?

You can email your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your home address. Discover this week’s and past feedback on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Weekly Book Recommendation: Toxic People by Lien ten Brinke – Essential Insights for Navigating Negative Relationships

Posted on March 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Can you tell if someone is lying? The answer isn’t simple.

Margarita Young/Alamy

Toxic People
Leanne ten Brinke
simon & schuster

Leanne ten Brinke’s eye-opening book on dark personalities begins with an unexpected case study of a psychopath. The author highlights a well-known judge presiding over the case of a criminal, emphasizing the complexities of morality.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, once a key figure in mid-20th-century liberalism, might exemplify what ten Brinke describes as the “modern definition of a psychopath.” His actions, although not criminal, cast shadows over his legacy, impacting many lives around him.

The diagnosis of psychopathy was discontinued in 1952, attributed to stigma, leading to the adoption of broader terms such as antisocial personality disorder. By the 1980s, psychopathy re-emerged in criminal contexts, with assessments like the Revised Psychopathy Checklist highlighting the lack of empathy in violent offenders, making them capable of high recidivism rates. Individuals identified as psychopaths, although only 1% of the population, are estimated to be responsible for half of the serious crimes, according to ten Brinke.

Ten Brinke, who directs the Truth and Trust Institute at the University of British Columbia, argues that high dark personality traits are not limited to outright offenders. “If we broaden the psychopathy lens, perhaps 10-20% of the population exhibits high levels of traits associated with psychopathy, yet lack the clinical designation,” she states.

In Toxic People, ten Brinke assesses the societal costs inflicted by “predatory individuals” and proposes strategies to mitigate their impact in our lives. However, she presents a crucial caveat.

Over the last two decades, personality psychology has developed the Dark Tetrad framework, combining psychopathy, Machiavellianism, narcissism, and sadism.

Contrary to pop culture’s portrayal of psychopathy as a binary condition, ten Brinke illustrates that it functions on a spectrum. Each individual has varying scores across different traits, with roughly 10-20% exhibiting pronounced dark personality traits, arguably contributing to societal erosion of ethical standards.

However, there’s a silver lining: around 80% of individuals don’t exhibit high levels of these traits. But ten Brinke cautions against complacency, indicating that these characteristics can be influenced by environmental factors.

Through a detailed case study, she discusses how a “culture of corruption” can transform the majority into complicity. “Kind individuals can become vulnerable to dark personalities,” she warns, identifying factors like fatigue or group dynamics as potential triggers for harmful behavior.

The book offers readers useful strategies to shield themselves from toxic individuals, including the establishment of clear boundaries. Yet, it also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection. How can we maintain our moral integrity and resist enabling those with nefarious intentions? Ten Brinke poses critical questions about why we often elevate such personalities in leadership roles.

While some may argue that dark personalities make compelling leaders, ten Brinke debunks this myth in lighter sections of the book. She highlights how research into investment bankers reveals that the most manipulative managers often achieve poorer financial outcomes over time.

Findings suggest that these cunning managers earned 30% less than their cooperative counterparts over a decade. “If you aim to maximize investment returns, seeking a predatory manager may not be your best strategy,” she concludes.

Misconceptions about psychopathic effectiveness arise in workplace dynamics, as dark personalities tend to propagate self-aggrandizing lies. They find reward in deception, furthering their personal agendas. Ten Brinke articulates how such individuals often falsely claim to be exemplary leaders, creating an atmosphere of mistrust.

“
In investment banking, the most malicious and cunning managers earned 30% less than the average.
“

Ten Brinke emphasizes our complicity in endorsing dishonest narratives. By refining our own darker traits, particularly strategic Machiavellian thinking, we can better identify deception.

She reminds us that if detecting lies were effortless, deception wouldn’t exist. However, vigilance can pay off. If a few “bad apples” spoil the barrel, the rest of us have the power to prevent decay. Interestingly, ten Brinke hints that certain traits, such as empathy and conscience, can counterbalance darker tendencies, offering a means to reverse corruption.

Challenging the notion that “absolute power corrupts absolutely,” she asserts it applies principally to the worst individuals. Taking ownership of our moral character can lead to rewards.

The pathway to cultivating what she calls “moral Machiavellianism” could significantly enhance our society, moving us beyond the assembly line of psychopathic behaviors.

3 Other Must-Read Books on Bad Behavior

Born a Liar: Why We Can’t Live Without Deception
Ian Leslie
This book delves into why lying is a fundamental aspect of human development and interaction.

Snake in a Suit: Understanding and Surviving the Office Psychopath
Paul Babiak and Robert D. Hare
This book offers insights into the non-criminal psychopaths in corporate environments.

The Prince
Niccolò Machiavelli (Translated by N.H. Thompson)This seminal work discusses the dynamics of power and manipulation.

Sally Addie is a science writer based in London.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Unveiling Hidden Complexities of the Cat’s Eye Nebula: Insights from Hubble and Euclidean Telescopes

Posted on March 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent images from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and the ESA’s Euclid mission showcase the intricate multi-shell structure of the fascinating planetary nebula NGC 6543, famously known as the Cat’s Eye Nebula.

This mesmerizing image from Euclid encapsulates the panoramic view of the Cat’s Eye Nebula. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Euclid Consortium / J.-C. Cuillandre & E. Bertin, CEA Paris-Saclay / Z. Tsvetanov.

The Cat’s Eye Nebula, located roughly 4,300 light-years away in the constellation Draco, has intrigued astronomers for decades due to its complex, multi-layered architecture.

“Planetary nebulae,” as they are called, derive their name from their round appearance in early telescopic observations; they are actually colossal gas clouds expelled from stars nearing the end of their life cycle,” the Hubble and ESA astronomers explained.

This insight was initially uncovered in 1864 using the Cat’s Eye Nebula itself. Studying its light spectrum allows scientists to identify individual molecules, a characteristic that differentiates planetary nebulae from stars and galaxies.

Near-infrared and visible-light imagery from the Euclid mission illustrates the arcs and filaments of the nebula’s luminous core, enveloped in a mist of vibrant gas debris that is retreating from the star.

“This ring was expelled from the star prior to the formation of the central nebula,” the astronomers noted.

“The entire nebula is prominently set against a backdrop brimming with distant galaxies, exemplifying how local astrophysical wonders and the farthest reaches of the universe coexist in today’s astronomical surveys.”

In this remarkable image, Hubble captures the swirling gas core of the Cat’s Eye Nebula. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Z. Tsvetanov.

Through a wide-field lens, Hubble has captured stunning high-resolution visible-light images of the nebula’s swirling gas core.

The data reveals an intricate tapestry of features that appear almost surreal, including concentric shells, high-velocity gas jets, and dense knots shaped by impact interactions,” the researchers stated.

“These structures are believed to document the transient mass loss from the dying star at the nebula’s center, creating a cosmic ‘fossil record’ of its final evolution.”

“The combination of Hubble’s focused observations and Euclid’s deep-field data not only emphasizes the nebula’s delicate structure but also situates it in the broader cosmic landscape explored by both telescopes.”

“Together, these missions offer a rich, complementary view of NGC 6543, illuminating the subtle interplay between a star’s end-of-life processes and the vast universe that surrounds it.”

Source: www.sci.news

Surprising Insights: Global Sea Levels Higher Than Expected

Posted on March 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Rising Sea Levels: Increased Risk of Storm Surge Flooding in Coastal Cities

Credit: Thomas Wyness / Alamy Stock Photo

Many studies on the impact of future sea level rise have neglected to acknowledge that current sea levels are higher than previously estimated, resulting from a significant “methodological blind spot.” This oversight indicates that flooding and erosion may commence sooner than anticipated.

Katarina Seeger and Philip Minderhoud, researchers at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, evaluated 385 peer-reviewed studies addressing coastal vulnerability. They found that 90% of these studies failed to consider critical factors—such as ocean currents, tides, temperature, salinity, and wind—when assessing sea level variations. This oversight led to an average underestimation of coastal water levels by 24 to 27 centimeters.

Addressing this gap could potentially increase projections of individuals likely to experience flooding, estimating an increase of up to 68%, impacting approximately 132 million people by 2100. Areas significantly affected include Southeast Asia and Oceania, which often feature sea levels averaging a meter higher than previously calculated, with some regions seeing several meters’ difference.

“If representatives from these vulnerable regions attend global discussions to seek assistance, it may be frustrating, as their risks are grossly underestimated. This scientific miscalculation could affect outcomes for future generations,” Minderhoud stated during a briefing.

While predictions suggest that sea levels may rise by as much as 1 meter by the century’s end, many studies begin with baselines that are inaccurately low. Thus, the adverse effects will likely manifest sooner than expected.

Of the studies evaluated, 46 were referenced in the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the premier source on global warming impacts, including rising sea levels.

The Earth’s rotation causes it to bulge at the equator, while denser mantle sections exert a greater gravitational pull on overlying water. To accurately determine the elevation of a specific area, measurements must be compared to the geoid, which depicts mean sea level worldwide.

However, in some regions, actual sea levels can be several meters above the geoid due to wind and ocean currents accumulating water or thermal expansion caused by rising temperatures. Additionally, coastlines may shift due to sediment deposition in rivers or groundwater extraction beneath coastal areas.

Instead of comparing satellite observations to the geoid for insight into coastal water levels and land elevation, many researchers relied on unadjusted geoid sea levels. Even those who attempted calculations often encountered errors caused by differing geoid models for land and ocean elevations. Alarmingly, less than 1% of surveys accurately determined the current sea level at the coastline in question.

“The Coastal Research Community may not have full access to these critical sea level datasets as we are primarily focused on the coastal land aspect,” Seeger remarked during the briefing.

Climate scientists and oceanographers must collaborate more closely with geographers and environmental scientists who assess coastal impacts, emphasized Matt Palmer from the UK’s Met Office.

“It could be said that the crucial final details got lost in translation,” he noted. “Ensuring that the last mile of information is handled adeptly is vital; otherwise, the integrity of the entire effort is compromised.”

The implications of this issue extend to matters of climate justice, said Palmer. The underestimation of sea levels is particularly critical in low-income nations, including various deltas in Africa and Asia. Limited data on gravity fluctuations and lower geoid accuracy contribute to this challenge in regions that are most susceptible to rising sea levels.

The scientific community advocates for enhanced data collection in low-income regions, particularly through the installation of tide gauges for accurate sea level measurements, according to Joan Williams from the UK National Marine Centre.

“Coastal sea levels are influenced by various local factors, necessitating long-term, well-calibrated regional measurements as the gold standard,” she stated.

Topics:

Climate Change/
Sea Level Rise

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why ‘Radical Everydayness’ Suggests We Can’t Connect with Aliens – Insights from Sciworthy

Posted on March 4, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

“Where Are They?” is the question posed by the renowned Italian-American physicist Enrico Fermi during a discussion with a colleague in the early 1950s, hinting at the existence of extraterrestrial life. Fermi conducted calculations suggesting that alien civilizations should exist and have visited Earth in the past. He argued that the absence of extraterrestrial outposts raises important questions about civilization itself.

For decades, astronomers have referenced this pivotal conversation to explore the Fermi Paradox, which questions why we don’t see signs of other civilizations in the galaxy if they exist. Various hypotheses have emerged, including the Great Filter theory, suggesting a barrier that prevents civilizations from achieving the technology to communicate with one another. Alternatively, the Zoo Hypothesis posits that extraterrestrial beings are aware of humanity and opt not to make contact to avoid confusion. It is also possible that aliens are already among us or that unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) or interstellar objects like ‘Oumuamua could indicate alien presence.

Some solutions to the Fermi Paradox involve assumptions regarding technological growth, evolution, or intelligence itself. Recently, researcher Robin HD Corbett suggested a more routine solution. His argument is based on the Copernican Principle of Mediocrity, which implies that if alien civilizations are akin to humans, it’s not surprising we haven’t encountered them.

Corbett presents two main considerations for a “radical secularity” solution to the Fermi Paradox. Firstly, there are limits to technological advancement; even if alien civilizations are more advanced, they lack faster-than-light travel or other impossible technologies. Secondly, while numerous alien civilizations may exist, they are not ubiquitous.

Regarding technology, Corbett points out that the laws of physics inhibit any civilization from developing a warp drive to quickly traverse the galaxy. Practical limitations, including engineering challenges and ecological concerns, compel civilizations to pursue sustainable technologies rather than pursuing grand projects detectable from afar, like an artificial ring around a star or radio beacons broadcasting for thousands of years.

The existence of civilizations similar to ours carries significant implications. If they exercise similar rational thought, guiding their space exploration decisions with cost-benefit analyses, they might find that the effort required to explore other civilizations may outweigh the benefits, especially without groundbreaking technology.

Corbett further claims that space exploration would likely be conducted by autonomous, perhaps self-replicating, machines known as von Neumann probes equipped with advanced AI, capable of traveling at 1/1000th the speed of light. Concerns about uncontrollable AI escalation may increase costs, leading civilizations to limit their exploratory efforts.

Corbett concludes that if alien civilizations are located far from Earth, they may have abandoned their search for others millions of years ago, leaving us in silence. Scientists, particularly those working on the new wireless array, should be mindful that extraterrestrial beings may closely resemble humans. Star Trek‘s Vulcans suggest limitations on future technologies, further complicating our quest for contact. Corbett also posits that UAPs discovered on Earth are likely not alien in origin, concluding that extraterrestrials may find humans too ordinary to warrant their attention.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Understanding How Psychopaths Lie: Insights and Key Findings

Posted on March 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

When we think about infamous fictional psychopaths, like the chillingly calculating Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, they often embody the image of a scammer. But what about real-life psychopaths?

Research indicates that psychopaths are more inclined to lie to achieve their goals, exhibiting remarkable fearlessness, almost as if they have ice in their veins.

You might assume that their cold demeanor makes it hard to detect their deceit. Surprisingly, studies suggest that psychopaths are not significantly better at lying than others.

For instance, a study from the 1980s revealed that convicted psychopaths were easily identifiable, much like non-psychopaths using lie detectors. However, it’s important to note that while lie detector tests are commonly employed, they are notoriously unreliable.

In a more recent 2016 study, researchers found that criminals tend to lie frequently. Notably, psychopaths often exhibit a heightened tendency to lie during psychological tasks. Yet, they still encounter cognitive costs from lying, such as making more errors and responding more slowly.

Though psychopaths lack the moral and emotional barriers that typically hinder lying for most people, they cannot escape the psychological challenges associated with creating believable lies.

Interestingly, while psychopaths may not have a natural talent for lying, there is emerging evidence that they can learn to become more effective liars.

A 2017 study discovered that students with high psychopathic traits demonstrated significant improvement during tasks that required them to lie convincingly. They could lie faster than others, indicating that the mental strain of lying decreases along with reduced neural activity related to deceit.

In summary, psychopaths may not excel at lying initially, but they have a propensity to lie more frequently and improve at it more swiftly than others.

This article addresses the question posed by Lyle Morse via email: “Are psychopaths really good at lying?”

To submit your own questions, please email questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out via social media: Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. (Don’t forget to include your name and location.)

For more fascinating scientific insights, visit our Ultimate Fun Facts page.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Are Aliens Picking Up Earth’s Radio Waves? – Cyworthy Insights

Posted on March 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Radio signals are a fundamental element of the first contact subgenre in science fiction. Carl Sagan’s Contact features a compelling narrative that centers around Liu Cixin’s discovery of encrypted radio signals from the planet Vega. Another notable work, The Three-Body Problem by Vince Gilligan, explores the ramifications of a scientist establishing covert radio contact with extraterrestrial beings. The story of Pluribus focuses on the consequences of scientists following instructions transmitted to Earth through radio signals. What is the likelihood of us receiving alien radio signals, or vice versa?

A team of researchers from Pennsylvania State University and the California Institute of Technology delved into this intriguing question. They identified radio signals as a critical component in the quest for intelligent extraterrestrial life. Astronomers have established that intelligent species, like humans, can create machines that both generate and detect radio signals.

The research team specifically focused on a subset of radio transmissions from Earth that relay signals between ground stations and spacecraft located far from our planet. This system is known as NASA’s Deep Space Network, or DSN. It comprises three sites located in the United States, Spain, and Australia, each featuring 70-meter (230 feet) and 34-meter (112 feet) radio antennas.

The detectability of signals from these antennas depends on several factors, including the strength of the signal, the duration of the observation, the bandwidth of the signal, and the required distinction from background noise. Using a formula based on the typical input power of DSN signals, the researchers calculated the possible distance at which extraterrestrial intelligence could detect signals from Earth. They assumed that the telescope used by an alien civilization would have specifications similar to those of Earth’s signals. Using the observation time of the Green Bank Telescope of 30 minutes, they estimated that signals could be detected within a radius of approximately 7 parsecs, equating to 200 trillion kilometers or 100 trillion miles, which is only about 0.02% of the Milky Way’s diameter.

Following this analysis, the astronomers posed two related questions: First, from which direction in the sky is Earth likely to be detected by radio signals? Second, in what direction are the planetary systems most likely to send radio signals to detect extraterrestrial life?

To answer the first question, the researchers examined the distribution of DSN signals transmitted from Earth to various satellites and telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). By comparing the DSN patterns to those that extraterrestrial intelligence might generate, astronomers could identify where distant observers are most likely to detect signals from Earth. They utilized publicly available DSN schedules to map the sky and assess where and when antennas were transmitting radio signals.

Their findings revealed that a significant portion of Earth’s radio signals emanate from spacecraft like the Advanced Composition Explorer, the Deep Space Climate Observatory, and the Solar Heliosphere Observatory, primarily along the Sun’s apparent path in the sky, known as the ecliptic. Remarkably, up to 79% of Earth’s deep space radio signals are within 5° of the ecliptic, with minor but notable peaks directed towards Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, and the JWST.

These insights bring several implications for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. First, astronomers should prioritize scanning for radio signals from distant planetary systems, especially where exoplanets transit between Earth and their host star. This could increase the likelihood of capturing stray signals from alien civilizations directed at their own satellites and probes positioned near the ecliptic.

Second, astronomers should focus efforts during times when exoplanets orbiting their stars pass behind one another. This increases the probability that a distant observer might detect Earth’s signals to 12%. If alien civilizations are broadcasting signals towards stars resembling Jupiter or Mars, there are substantial chances of detection.

Lastly, as most of Earth’s deep space radio signals are concentrated near the ecliptic, astronomers should particularly investigate stars positioned close to this ecliptic plane. These stars are more likely to be recipients of signals from Earth, and they may even be attempting to reply. Following this strategy, the researchers identified 128 star systems within a seven parsec radius of Earth where civilizations possessing intelligence could potentially detect signals from Earth through DSN communications and vice versa. Therefore, for the most promising avenue in the search for extraterrestrial life, attention should be directed along the path of the Sun.

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Source: sciworthy.com

How Ancient Mating Preferences Shaped the Human Genome: Insights from Recent Study

Posted on March 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

A groundbreaking study from the University of Pennsylvania reveals that prehistoric humans and Neanderthals interbred with a notable sexual bias, with male Neanderthals mating more often with female modern humans. This pattern may explain the scarcity of Neanderthal DNA in the human X chromosome and highlight the impact of social behaviors on our genetic lineage.

Prehistoric mating preferences help explain why modern humans carry small amounts of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes, particularly absent from the X chromosome. Image credit: Gemini AI.

“In addition to the X chromosome, there’s a significant gap in Neanderthal DNA referred to as the ‘Neanderthal desert’,” stated lead author Dr. Alexander Pratt, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.

“Historically, we believed these gaps resulted from certain Neanderthal genes being biologically harmful to humans, leading to their removal through natural selection,” he added.

New genomic analyses indicate that long-standing mating preferences, not genetic incompatibilities, influenced which Neanderthal DNA sequences were retained in modern human genomes.

This research illustrates how social interactions have shaped the human genome and challenges the notion that evolution is solely driven by the “survival of the fittest.”

“Our findings indicate a distinct sexual bias, with gene flow predominantly occurring from male Neanderthals to anatomically modern human females, which explains the limited presence of Neanderthal DNA on modern human X chromosomes,” remarked Dr. Platt.

“Approximately 600,000 years ago, anatomically modern humans and Neanderthals diverged, creating two separate evolutionary paths,” added Professor Sarah Tishkoff, the study’s senior author.

“While our ancestors evolved in Africa, Neanderthals adapted to life in Eurasia, yet this separation was not permanent.”

“Over millennia, human groups migrated into and out of Neanderthal territories, resulting in genetic exchanges during their encounters.”

To assess whether Neanderthal X chromosomes contained modern human alleles, researchers analyzed conserved DNA in three Neanderthal samples: Altai, Chagyrskaya, and Vindija.

They compared this data with that of a diverse genome from Africa, which hadn’t historically interacted with Neanderthals.

“Our analysis revealed a significant discrepancy,” noted co-author Dr. Daniel Harris from the University of Pennsylvania.

“While modern humans lack the Neanderthal X chromosome, the Neanderthal X chromosome contained 62% more modern human DNA compared to other chromosomes.”

This mirrored result indicates that if reproductive incompatibility existed, modern human DNA would also be absent in Neanderthal X chromosomes.

However, the presence of modern human DNA in Neanderthal X chromosomes rules out biological incompatibility as a barrier to reproduction.

The lingering explanation lies in the sexual bias in mating practices.

Given that women possess two X chromosomes and men only one, the direction of mating plays a crucial role.

If Neanderthal males mated more frequently with modern human females, fewer Neanderthal X chromosomes would integrate into the human gene pool, while more human X chromosomes would enter the Neanderthal population.

Mathematical models verified that this bias adequately explains the observed inheritance patterns.

While other factors such as gender-biased migration could lead to similar results, these scenarios are often complex and vary over time and geography.

“Our findings suggest that mating preferences offer the simplest explanation for these patterns,” concluded Dr. Platt.

For more details on this research, refer to the journal Science.

_____

Alexander Pratt et al. 2026. Interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans showed significant sexual bias. Science 391 (6788): 922-925; doi: 10.1126/science.aea6774

Source: www.sci.news

Discover If You’re Truly Cool: Insights from Science

Posted on March 2, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

At some point, many of us yearn to be perceived as cool. This pursuit significantly influences our purchases, fashion choices, hobbies, social circles, and even our vocabulary.

Being accepted by a group has its advantages. Research indicates that those deemed cool are often more admired, likable, and viewed as friendly and competent. But what truly defines “cool”?

The idea of coolness has historical roots, with parallels in cultures worldwide, including West Africa and China. In Europe, the concept traces back to the 16th century Italian term sprezzatura, embodying a refined and effortless style (think of the Mona Lisa—her enigmatic smile and poise exemplify this ideal). This form of coolness hinges on nonchalance and mastering the art of making challenges appear effortless.

Perhaps one key to being cool is to be effortlessly yourself. We all recognize the discomfort of trying too hard to impress others (just recall former British Prime Minister Theresa May’s infamous dance video).

Being cool often stems from confidence and a sense of adventure.

Cool slang evolves over time, from rad and hip to swell, dope, fresh, and light, but “cool” remains timeless.

This term, signifying “fashionable,” originates from African American culture in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in the jazz music scene.

Jazz musicians with a relaxed playing style were labeled as cool, a term later embraced by bohemian groups like beatniks and hippies in the 1950s and 1960s. Subsequently, the concept of coolness became commercialized, with businesses exploiting it to market everything from apparel to cars.

So, what might define coolness in 2026? A recent study involving around 6,000 participants from six continents outlined the characteristics of individuals considered cool. Findings revealed six core traits: power, hedonism, adventure, autonomy, openness, and extroversion. However, balance is crucial; excessive hedonism or a desperate pursuit of power can disrupt credibility.

The consistency of these traits across cultures suggests that coolness fulfills a universal social function.

Individuals embodying these traits are more likely to challenge the status quo, innovate, and inspire others to embrace new perspectives.

Moreover, simply being perceived as cool can elevate a person’s social status by showcasing their creativity and promoting cultural evolution.

But what if you don’t identify as cool or prefer not to chase that label? The same study identified personality traits regarded as “good” rather than cool, such as kindness, sincerity, friendliness, and warmth. Pursuing these qualities can also leave a lasting impression.

This article responds to the query (posed by Jonathan Schaefer of Wakefield): “What truly makes someone cool?”

For questions, please email questions@sciencefocus.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (include your name and location).

For more exciting scientific discussions, check out our Ultimate Fun Facts page.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discover Daisy Fancourt’s Insights on Art as Medicine: ‘If Art Had the Healing Power of Medicine, We’d Embrace It Daily’

Posted on February 27, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Regular Engagement with Arts: Transformative Physiological Changes

Mascot/Getty Images

Reflecting on my journey into research on the health benefits of art, a pivotal moment stands out. After completing my education, I began working at the NHS, overseeing performing arts programs at Chelsea and Westminster Hospitals in London. One patient’s relative approached me post-performance in a dementia ward and said, “What a wonderful entertainment program you are running.”

This comment, albeit well-intentioned, overlooked the profound impact of our Hospital Arts Program. I personally witnessed transformative effects: a patient, despite memory loss, sang along to White Cliffs of Dover, evoking childhood memories. I observed a child with severe burns who required no morphine during a theater performance, a premature baby who calmed and began eating while his mother sang, and a stroke survivor who walked more steadily upon wearing headphones. While our arts programs offered enjoyable distractions, I recognized their deeper significance in enhancing patients’ health. My curiosity led me to seek a deeper understanding of these effects.

Over the past decade, I have dedicated my research as a psychobiologist and epidemiologist to acknowledge the health benefits associated with art engagement. Findings from numerous global studies reveal that activities like reading, listening to music, dancing, or crafting activate essential biological processes that support our health. Participating in the arts stimulates our brain’s reward system, elevating dopamine levels tied to mood and pleasure. Furthermore, we regulate autonomic nervous system activity, which contributes to lower heart rates and decreased blood pressure over time. Notably, our stress hormones diminish, as do inflammatory responses within our immune system. We can even modify gene expression, reducing stress-related genes while enhancing those that promote neurogenesis.

Regularly engaging in arts over extended periods fosters significant physiological changes. It’s shown to increase gray matter in brain regions vital for memory, auditory processing, and motor skills. Furthermore, we produce unique protein patterns associated with improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of depression and infections. A recent study employing various biological metrics, including brain clocks and epigenetic evaluations, indicates that consistent engagement with the arts correlates with a younger biological age.

These profound changes significantly influence our overall well-being. Individuals who actively participate in the arts tend to report greater happiness, enhanced life satisfaction, purpose, and a reduced risk of developing conditions such as depression, chronic pain, frailty, and even dementia. These beneficial relationships hold even when accounting for factors like wealth, demographics, medical history, or lifestyle choices.

These promising results are drawn from randomized controlled trials, laboratory experiments, and large-scale epidemiological studies examining the art’s population-level impacts. Numerous specific artistic interventions in medical settings for designated patient groups—like singing programs for stroke survivors or dance classes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease—underscore art’s potential benefits. Some trials suggest that art might be even more effective for managing pre-operative anxiety than traditional anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, with fewer side effects proving its efficacy.

Nevertheless, while engaging in the arts is a promising avenue of exploration, it is not a cure-all. Various instances of art-related harm exist due to misuse or inadequate project design. I have actively countered misconceptions, such as the idea of art as a cure for boosting intelligence or combating serious health issues like cancer. Although the field remains ripe with potential and ongoing research, we eagerly anticipate larger-scale trials.

If a medication boasted this array of health benefits, we would enthusiastically promote it, invest resources in its development, and ensure its accessibility. It is exhilarating to watch the recommendations I promote materialize—not as prescriptions or medical interventions, but as enjoyable experiences like attending a concert, participating in dance lessons, or simply reading a book, potentially including my own.

Daisy Fancourt is the author of Art Cure: The Science of How Art Changes Our Health (Cornerstone Press) and featured in the March reading list of the New Scientist Book Club. Join us here to participate in the discussion!

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New Scientist Book Club

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Aging Brain: Essential Insights You Need to Know

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research reveals that older adults may have a genetic edge, showcasing enhanced cognitive abilities as they age.

A study conducted by scientists at the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine found that individuals aged over 80, referred to as “very old people,” produce double the number of new neurons in the hippocampus—an area crucial for learning and memory—compared to the average elderly individual. The findings were published in the journal Nature on Wednesday.

Study co-author and UIC director, Orly Lazarov, stated, “This discovery indicates that very old individuals possess molecular capabilities that enhance their cognitive performance, evidenced by increased neurogenesis. Neurogenesis represents one of the most profound forms of brain plasticity.”

In essence, the brains of very old individuals are more adaptable, fostering improved cognitive functions.

The term “super-elderly” describes those over 80 who exhibit memory capabilities comparable to individuals 20 to 30 years younger, determined by a delayed word recall test, according to Dr. M. Marcel Mesulam, founder of the Meshulam Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease Research Institute. This designation was introduced by a professor from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine.

In this groundbreaking study, Lazarov and colleagues analyzed 38 brains from five distinct groups: healthy adults under 40, healthy older adults, those in early cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease patients, and super-elderly individuals. Notably, six super-aged brains were contributed by Northwestern University’s Super Aging Program, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year.

The researchers investigated neurons at varying developmental stages within brain tissue samples, discovering that very old individuals possess twice as many “immature” neurons compared to healthy older adults, and 2.5 times more than Alzheimer’s patients.

A super-aged brain in a research lab.Shane Collins, Northwestern University

Historically, it was believed that mammals had a fixed number of neurons from birth, but research in the 1960s and 1970s unveiled adult neurogenesis in rodents and primates.

Subsequent studies have indicated that this phenomenon occurs within the human hippocampus’s dentate gyrus, although evidence remains mixed, and the underlying processes are still unclear.

“We’ve affirmed the existence of neurogenesis and its involvement in learning and memory in animal models,” Lazarov commented. “Determining if the human brain functions similarly is a pivotal question for our research.”

Lazarov’s findings suggest that the adult brain can generate new neurons in response to age and cognitive status.

The study revealed that very old brains exhibit “signs of resilience,” allowing them to cope with aging while maintaining superior cognitive performance.

Moreover, the research identified changes in astrocytes and CA1 neurons that regulate memory and cognition within the aging hippocampus.

Despite the study’s advancements, authors noted limitations, such as small sample sizes and significant variability among human brain samples.

Very Old Individuals Provide Insights Beyond 25 Years

According to the Northwestern Super Aging Program, this research marks the first identification of genetic distinctions between very old and conventional older adults.

Tamar Geffen, co-director of the program and co-author of the study, stated, “These individuals, aged 80 and above, exhibit immature neurons that continuously rewire, making their hippocampus distinct from that of other seniors.”

The program has also uncovered various discoveries related to these exceptionally healthy seniors, ranging from personality traits to neurological anomalies. For instance, Geffen noted that very elderly individuals often describe themselves as extroverts, with other research highlighting Von Economo Neurons linked to social behavior.

“We’ve repeatedly heard about the importance of social interactions for healthy aging, while isolation can have adverse effects in old age,” she noted.

Furthermore, these seniors tend to embrace change and remain receptive to new experiences, often identifying as low-level neurotics, according to Geffen.

While a typical human brain shrinks with age, a phenomenon exacerbated by Alzheimer’s, researchers at Northwestern discovered that the brains of very old individuals exhibit significantly slower shrinkage rates.

In a 2017 study published in the American Medical Association Journal, Northwestern researchers noted that very old individuals demonstrate resilience against neurofibrillary tangles, or tau protein changes associated with Alzheimer’s.

Concerning immunity, very elderly individuals have numerous questions, with their brains containing microglia—immune cells that activate during neurodegenerative diseases. A 2019 study in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience revealed that very old individuals had fewer activated microglia compared to dementia patients, paralleling amounts found in those 30 to 40 years younger.

Staying Sharp Without Being Super Old

The findings suggest that the very elderly may have won the genetic lottery regarding cognitive health.

Sel Yackley, an 86-year-old participant in Northwestern’s Super Aging Program, noted, “We feel fortunate; we’re forming new neurons.”

Residing in Chicago, Yackley humorously remarked on her “super-senior duties,” which include knitting, going to the gym, crafting jewelry, singing, and managing her daily to-do list. Although she has faced limited in-person interactions, she’s prioritized keeping in touch via phone, email, and Zoom.

While she proudly identifies as a super senior citizen, Yackley acknowledges that age-related cognitive impairment can still affect her.

“At times, my memories feel fresh, and other times they slip away,” she stated.

Importantly, there are several wellness strategies individuals can adopt throughout adulthood to preserve cognitive health, noted Dr. Jennifer Paul-Durai, medical director of the Inova Brain Health and Memory Disorders Program in Northern Virginia. “Now is the moment to focus on enhancing cognitive function, long before natural decline or dementia occur,” she advised.

Dr. Paul-Durai emphasized, “The concept of super-aging provides a sense of regained control. With rising dementia and Alzheimer’s rates correlating with increased lifespan, maintaining cognitive sharpness is vital.” She encourages discussions focused on strategies to mitigate cognitive decline rather than solely highlighting the lack of a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.

This latest research underscores the brain’s capacity for adaptability, with Paul-Durai likening it to a ball of clay. “While some inherit better quality clay than others, it remains moldable throughout life to foster and shape neural pathways.”

However, if left unattended, clay solidifies and becomes hard to work with, similar to how our brains respond when we neglect cognitive engagement and physical activity.

“Our brains require active use and continuous cognitive engagement to remain flexible,” Paul-Durai explained.

Prioritizing overall health is also crucial for fostering brain plasticity, as factors like unmanaged chronic illnesses and untreated psychological traumas can hinder neuron development.

“It’s essential to advocate for preventive brain health measures before significant societal fractures emerge,” she advised. “We must emphasize the importance of taking proactive steps over merely highlighting the absence of Alzheimer’s solutions.”

Yackley, a former journalist, attributes her cognitive resilience to her career path, sharing, “My curiosity led me to explore numerous stories and conduct many interviews, which may have contributed to my neuronal health.”

Her advice to those who aren’t super seniors is to remain actively engaged, both mentally and physically.

“Don’t get caught up in counting the years. Stay active, both mentally and physically,” Yackley encouraged.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Exploring ‘Ripples on the Cosmic Ocean’ by Dagomar DeGroot: Insights and Reflections This Week

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The solar system’s influence on humanity

NASA/Bettman Archive/Getty Images

This stunning photo mosaic created from images captured by NASA spacecraft showcases six planets of the solar system along with Earth's moon. In the foreground, Earth rises above the moon, displaying a solar flare at its edge. Venus is positioned above the moon, with Jupiter, Mercury, Mars, and Saturn arranged from top left to right. Photo credits: Earth - Apollo 17, Moon - Apollo 8; Sun - Apollo 12. Venus - Pioneer Venus. Jupiter - Voyager I; Mercury - Mariner 10; Saturn - Pioneer 11. — The solar system’s influence on humanity

NASA/Bettman Archive/Getty Images

Ripples in the Cosmic Ocean
Dagomar DeGroot
Viking, UK. Belknap Press, USA

For those captivated by extraterrestrial news, if you’re an avid reader of New Scientist, you might be aware of recent discoveries hinting at life’s potential on distant planets. Perhaps you’ve heard about a Mars rover uncovering signs of ancient life in uniquely patterned rock or recalled that moment last year when an asteroid appeared to threaten Earth.

While these cosmic revelations are undoubtedly thrilling, they often quickly dissolve into distant echoes, overshadowed by pressing global matters like conflicts and climate crises. The chance of alien microbes emitting gases from a planet trillions of kilometers away may ignite your imagination for a fleeting moment, but what real significance do these cosmic findings hold for our lives on Earth?

Climate historian Dagomar DeGroot argues that our fascination with the cosmos has profoundly shaped human history in his new book, Ripples in the Cosmic Ocean: How the Solar System Shaped Human History – and Might Save the Planet.

“
Venus’ runaway greenhouse effect prompts the question: could Earth face a similar fate?
“

Although DeGroot may not be a scientist, he represents a new generation of interdisciplinary historians, serving as an environmental historian at Georgetown University.

His book delves into how shifts in the cosmic environment have influenced human events, drawing from archives of renowned and obscure scientists alike to construct a detailed narrative of scientific advancement. DeGroot argues for the need to observe our surroundings with a cosmic lens: “We cannot deny the existence of the ocean, both because its waves reach us without us seeking them, and because only by gazing into the abyss can we truly comprehend our isolated island.”

Our understanding of Earth’s climate, past ice ages, and potential global warming would be drastically diminished without our planetary neighbors illuminating the night sky. Recognizing the challenges posed by existential threats such as nuclear conflict and catastrophic asteroid impacts is crucial. Furthermore, we could find ourselves embroiled in theological disputes over heliocentrism.

DeGroot highlights the impactful influence a single planet can possess. For instance, Venus is depicted as a hostile environment with temperatures soaring above 460 degrees Celsius and active volcanoes releasing sulfur dioxide.

This perception has evolved. Initially, astronomers faced difficulties in observing Venus due to its dense atmosphere, yet by the 19th century, many agreed on the existence of cloud cover.

This misinformation fueled speculation about a habitable world under its clouds, significantly contributing to the rise of cosmic pluralism—the idea that Earth is not the sole cradle of life.

As our observational equipment improved and the harsh reality of Venus was unveiled, urgent questions emerged: Is this a warning for Earth’s future?

Understanding Venus’ extreme temperatures caused by a runaway greenhouse effect raises concern about the possibility for Earth to face a similar crisis. Numerous scientists, including astronomer Carl Sagan and climatologist James Hansen, dedicated their careers to studying Venus, which in turn sparked serious warnings about climate change on Earth.

DeGroot’s book overflows with instances like these, illustrating how Martian dust storms have compelled scientists to consider the ramifications of nuclear conflict. In 1994, the spectacle of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 colliding with Jupiter emphasized the urgency of defending Earth against similar threats.

Ripples in the Cosmic Ocean captivates readers with its exploration of lesser-known tales in the history of scientific ideas, showcasing peculiar and vibrant figures. One such figure is Immanuel Velikovsky, an American-Russian psychoanalyst whose peculiar theories about Venus generated intriguing predictions but also controversy within the scientific community from the 1950s to the 1970s.

DeGroot compellingly makes the case for looking beyond our world, yet he admits that navigating future space exploration and observations presents challenges. We now live in a time of remarkable space exploration, notably advanced by billionaire-funded companies like Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin.

He argues for an alternative approach that avoids exploiting space solely for affluent interests. Historically, colonial powers exploited knowledge for empire expansion. In a refreshing perspective, DeGroot suggests that we should foster life on Earth and cultivate “a vision of the ocean that creates and sustains communities in the cosmos for the collective benefit of all.”

One of his innovative ideas involves generating solar power from space, such as deploying solar panels on the moon to transmit energy back to Earth. Although the feasibility of such projects remains debatable, DeGroot underscores the necessity of choosing a path forward. Drawing from our solar system’s historical influence, he states, “Humanity’s journey has been partly driven by ripples in the cosmic ocean. Regardless of our actions, new waves will approach. Now, we hold the power to create our own waves. Our future may hinge on how we choose to shape those waves.”

3 Must-Read Books on the Solar System

Pale Blue Dot A Vision of Humanity’s Future in Space
Carl Sagan
Astronomer Carl Sagan explores the significance of our solar system in shaping human understanding and our place in the universe in this evocative meditation.

Space War
H.G. Wells
This classic features prominently in DeGroot’s book (see main review), recounting the famous radio adaptation that led to widespread panic among listeners who believed Earth was truly under Martian threat.

Mars City
Kelly Weinersmith & Zach Weinersmith
This dynamic duo, a cartoonist and biologist, explores the harsh realities of life on Mars through scientific facts and beautiful illustrations, revealing the challenges of living beyond Earth.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

JWST Unveils Insights into Dusty Star-Forming Galaxies – Sciworthy

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The origin of the universe is cloaked in cosmic dust. This vast expanse is teeming with tiny particles, ranging from a handful of molecules to micrometers – a scale of up to a millionth of a meter, or a hundred thousandth of an inch. From the dawn of the universe to the present day, massive clouds of gas and dust have accumulated and collapsed, giving birth to stars and galaxies. By investigating these particles, scientists can unlock secrets about the early universe. However, dust often obscures many interstellar objects from telescopes, limiting our understanding of deep space.

Astronomers are especially intrigued by a class of distant cosmic entities known as dust-enshrouded star-forming galaxies (DSFGs), which are prolific in star production. These ancient galaxies create over 100 stars annually—nearly ten times the rate of the Milky Way—but their visible light is entirely masked by dust. To decipher high-resolution data, astronomers employ a method known as astronomy to unearth the characteristics of these DSFGs. It’s akin to examining a high-definition 4K image, yet from the far reaches of outer space. Until recently, no equipment could successfully resolve DSFGs. This changed with the advent of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

An international team of astronomers has recently succeeded in resolving 22 DSFGs using the JWST’s near-infrared camera, NIRCam. This advanced instrument can observe galaxies at wavelengths between 0.6 to 5 micrometers (approximately 1/5 millionth of a meter, or 2/1000ths of an inch). Astronomers leverage these high-resolution observations to navigate the dust enveloping DSFGs.

The research team utilized seven distinct filters in NIRCam to isolate specific wavelengths or colors of light from each galaxy. Each filter reveals different physical properties, including the galaxies’ size, shape, lumpiness, mass, and star formation rates. No single filter can capture all properties simultaneously; astronomers must also adjust their filters in accordance with the distance between the galaxy and Earth. Due to the universe’s expansion, older, more distant galaxies like the DSFG are receding from our own, causing the light waves we capture to stretch—a phenomenon known as redshift.

With the high-resolution data, the team classified DSFGs into three categories based on their visual traits. Type I galaxies create stars across their entirety, Type II galaxies concentrate star formation in their cores, while Type III galaxies generate stars only in their outer regions, known as the galactic disk. Astronomers studying cosmic history focus on areas where stars are not forming due to rapid cooling, identifying Type II and Type III galaxies. The study found 10 Type I galaxies, five Type II galaxies, and seven Type III galaxies among the DSFGs analyzed.

The team further explored the internal characteristics of each galaxy to unravel general trends within each type. To gauge their mass and star formation rates, astronomers employed models based on patterns of light emitted by the DSFGs, discovering that their sizes range from 30 billion to 300 billion times that of the Sun. Notably, the most massive DSFGs are smaller than the Milky Way and generate between 25 and 500 stars annually, located between 10 billion and 18 billion light-years from Earth.

The researchers also analyzed the shapes of these galaxies, noting that the more distant and older a galaxy is, the more fragmented its form appears. This fragmentation suggests that the high-redshift DSFGs are in a phase of forming tightly packed collections of stars, a structure known as a bulge. These galaxies may eventually experience quenching at their centers, morphing into Type III galaxies. Furthermore, scientists uncovered a previously unnoticed feature across many galaxies: they exhibit polarization, indicating potential past mergers with other galaxies.

The research team concluded that the high-resolution data provided by JWST can unveil hidden features within DSFGs, aiding astronomers in piecing together their past and predicting future developments. They advocate for upcoming researchers to utilize JWST data to test hypotheses regarding the evolution and characteristics of these fascinating galaxies.

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Source: sciworthy.com

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