Living organisms consist of non-living components, which carries profound implications for our understanding of life. This suggests that there is no mystical essence that grants life, but rather, life can potentially be synthesized from the ground up, a feat we are rapidly approaching.
Artificial life has long been a cornerstone of synthetic biology. In 2010, researchers at the J. Craig Venter Institute in California synthesized a fragmented bacterial genome, integrating it into a host cell devoid of its DNA. These resulting organisms demonstrated the ability to grow and reproduce with a minimal gene count of just 473. However, a significant portion of these genes still remains enigmatic regarding their functions and necessity. Consequently, moving beyond the modification of existing cells to creating microorganisms from scratch has become vital.
Currently, scientists at the University of Missouri are embarking on this ambitious project. Dubbed “Spud Cells”—an homage to both Sputnik and their potato-like appearance—these cells are constructed from merely 36 genes. When provided with the essential building blocks for life, they self-assemble into cell-like structures and synthesize proteins.
“ SpudCell represents a significant advance in the creation of artificial life “
However, it’s important to note that SpudCell can only produce proteins because it relies on supplied ribosomes, which are crucial for protein synthesis. They lack the ability to metabolize nutrients, generate energy, or accurately divide and reproduce. Thus, while non-living, SpudCell marks a substantial leap towards artificial life replication. If natural cells are likened to advanced jetliners, then SpudCells are akin to the delicate wooden and cotton prototypes of the Wright brothers.
Better iterations of synthetic cells are on the horizon, promising revolutionary applications. The ambition is that these synthetic organisms could one day replace materials conventionally sourced from fossil fuels, such as plastics, fuels, and fertilizers—a pressing need given current environmental challenges. Continuous research into the fundamental workings of living organisms is essential, as it will uncover what life requires and how it can emerge from inanimate matter. Solving this ultimate puzzle could render synthetic biology exceptionally beneficial.
Tens of millions of dollars have been allocated to the cultivation of seaweed for effective carbon dioxide capture, aiming to mitigate climate change. However, this emerging technology may face challenges that hinder its ability to significantly lower atmospheric CO2 levels and could even lead to unintended increases.
Meeting the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 2°C necessitates robust carbon dioxide removal (CDR) strategies. According to reports submitted to the United Nations, many stakeholders are optimistic about utilizing seaweed as a cost-effective solution. For example, the U.S. startup Running Tide raised $70 million intended for seaweed cultivation in wooden structures designed to sink into the deep ocean, facilitating carbon sequestration, but ultimately ran out of funding and closed last year.
Dutch enterprise Kelp Blue has successfully secured over $2 million to scale up its current seaweed production aimed at generating sustainable agricultural fertilizers in Namibia. This initiative claims the potential to “sequester and offset” approximately 500 million tonnes of CO2 annually as the seaweed particles drift into deeper ocean layers. Learn more.
However, extensive seaweed farming initiatives can adversely affect nutrient levels in local phytoplankton populations. Research indicates that phytoplankton play a crucial role in carbon sequestration as they die and descend into ocean depths.
“It could have localized negative impacts,” stated Manon Berger from the University of Bern in Switzerland. “In specific areas, we might actually reduce the ocean’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. The overall potential for beneficial outcomes is limited and could have severe ecosystem impacts.”
Most types of macroalgae, excluding sargassum, thrive near nutrient-rich coastal regions, where they absorb dissolved carbon during photosynthesis, aiding the ocean in capturing more CO2 from the atmosphere.
A significant portion of the seaweed is ultimately digested or decomposed by marine organisms and microorganisms, believed to emit just 1/90th of the carbon captured. To enhance carbon sequestration, seaweed cultivation would need to extend further offshore, necessitating specialized packaging or sinking measures in deep waters.
Nevertheless, nutrient availability in the open ocean is limited, and past studies have often overlooked how iron deficiencies can restrict seaweed growth. Berger and colleagues developed a simulation to assess the feasibility of cultivating 20 billion tons of seaweed annually within 200 nautical miles from coastlines.
The findings revealed that seaweed cultivation significantly depleted nitrogen, phosphorus, and iron levels in surrounding waters, leading to a 95% decline in growth after 25 years. Additionally, this could potentially result in an 8% reduction in global phytoplankton blooms.
While some scenarios suggest that seaweed farming could still remove billions of tons of CO2, the specific species cultivated and their nutrient consumption patterns could mean that for every ton of carbon stored in seaweed, an additional half-ton may be released into the atmosphere.
Models indicate that only about 0.05% of ocean territory near Senegal and southern Australia is conducive to seaweed growth without significantly impacting phytoplankton populations.
“If we rely on a limited number of specialized sites, we simply cannot cultivate enough seaweed to achieve gigaton-scale carbon removal,” Berger commented.
In a separate study, Andrew Youghal and his team at the UK’s National Marine Center modeled the effects of iron fertilization on seaweed regions. They found it could potentially eliminate 40 billion tons of CO2 per year, but this would come at the cost of halving plankton populations, with severe repercussions for fish that depend on them for food.
“This process extracts nutrients from the surface ocean and redistributes them to deeper waters,” Yull explained. “Essentially, this action would diminish or slowly suffocate the natural ecosystem.”
Moreover, cultivating and submerging vast quantities of seaweed would necessitate substantial infrastructure, such as cages, spanning 14% of the ocean’s surface, predominantly in nutrient-infused yet tumultuous waters like the Southern Ocean, North Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans.
Ultimately, if significant areas of the ocean lack iron, the potential carbon removal benefits of seaweed cultivation may not fully counterbalance the loss of plankton, which could amount to as much as 700 million tons of CO2 released annually into the atmosphere.
“It’s not enough to simply grow macroalgae; for effective carbon dioxide removal, we must also factor in the effects on phytoplankton growth,” cautioned Chelsea Baker, another researcher at the UK National Marine Centre.
How do you overcome the intermediate plateau while mastering a skill? I understand your struggle. I’ve been honing my table tennis skills weekly for the last 15 years. I can effortlessly beat most casual players during holidays or at social gatherings.
However, when faced with elite players, winning becomes nearly impossible. The frustrating part? There hasn’t been any noticeable improvement in years.
This situation exemplifies a common intermediate plateau. Initially, you may experience rapid progress, reaching commendable levels, but soon your improvement falters, leaving you feeling stagnant.
Researchers have been exploring these learning trajectories for over a century. Notably, classic studies from the late 19th century documented telegraphers as they learned to transcribe Morse code messages.
Each time I achieved a new performance level—transitioning from decoding single letters to recognizing full words and, eventually, complete sentences—I faced stubborn plateaus repeatedly.
Understanding this process hints at strategies for breaking through: in the early stages of learning a skill, everything must be approached consciously and intentionally.
This can make progress feel sluggish and performance challenging. Yet, with persistent practice, the brain learns to automate many of the perceptual and motor processes involved through trial and error.
In fact, as you improve, performance shifts to different brain areas; what was once labor-intensive becomes more automatic, freeing the upper brain’s resources.
The key to progress is to challenge yourself – Image courtesy of Getty Images
I’ve personally experienced this transformation. Nowadays, playing table tennis involves a pleasant fluidity that doesn’t require conscious thought about hitting the ball; my reflexes reliably return the ball.
However, this automaticity can also contribute to stagnation. If your performance becomes second nature and feels “good enough” for most challenges, you may never learn to adapt your techniques.
To advance, stepping out of your comfort zone is essential. This means actively addressing your weaknesses, competing against superior players, and seeking expert feedback with relentless commitment.
Truthfully, we must make practice challenging again. For me, this involves focusing on my weakest shot and finding skilled players to compete against, which necessitates significantly more effort than before.
This approach is termed “deliberate practice,” a concept popularized by Swedish psychologist Anders Ericsson’s research on expertise.
Many focus on Ericsson’s conclusion that elite performers spent over 10,000 hours practicing. However, he later regretted the oversimplification of this number.
To truly become an expert instead of remaining an intermediate, quality practice is crucial. It’s not about quantity; it’s about thoughtful, targeted practice.
The reality is that there’s no simple or painless way to escape stagnation. The pivotal step is finding the motivation to embrace challenges once more.
This article addresses the question posed by Ross Thomas from Wokingham: “How do you overcome the intermediate plateau when learning a skill?”
If you have any questions, please email us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out:Facebook,Twitter,Instagram(please include your name and location).
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NWS models indicate this El Niño event could rank among the most powerful recorded.
“There is a 63% likelihood of a very strong El Niño from November to January, potentially marking one of the largest events in history,” said Ariel Cohen, meteorologist with the NWS in Los Angeles, during a press conference at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California. “We are already witnessing sustained warm temperatures.”
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that leads to elevated surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific. This increase is linked with a rise in global average temperatures, exacerbating climate change impacts. Typically, it is associated with fewer hurricanes in the Atlantic and increased hurricane activity in the Pacific.
In the U.S., El Niño’s effects peak in winter, altering the usual jet stream flow that influences Northern Hemisphere weather patterns, pushing the jet stream southward.
This year, the Pacific Northwest faces drought conditions following a dry winter with lower snowfall. Conversely, southern states may experience unusually wet winters, leading to flooding.
El Niño can trigger powerful ocean heatwaves, disrupting marine ecosystems and causing mass fish mortality, along with bringing tropical fish species into coastal areas.
Andrew Rising, research oceanographer at NOAA’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, noted that two marine heatwaves have already impacted the Pacific. One is near California’s coastline, while another is occurring offshore.
Though not directly caused by El Niño, NOAA models indicate that ocean temperatures in the Pacific are expected to rise more rapidly this fall, intensifying ongoing heatwaves, according to Liesing.
“For marine life, the duration of heat exposure is critical,” Rising explained. “After a previous heat wave in Southern California, we’re about to face another due to El Niño.”
Past prolonged marine heatwaves have reduced plankton, essential to the food web, leading to harmful algae blooms that produce neurotoxins detrimental to marine life and increasing whale entanglements as they come closer to shore.
Rising highlighted that while some species might thrive during heatwaves, such as jellyfish and certain rockfish, many others face dire consequences.
In 2015, an exceptional marine heatwave known as “the Blob” caused ocean temperatures to soar by approximately 7°F, severely impacting marine ecosystems. Sea lions, seals, baleen whales, and seabirds perished due to food scarcity and increased algal toxins, according to Liesing.
The Blob significantly disrupted fisheries worth millions on the West Coast, leading to instances of Pyrosome proliferation—a jelly-like organism clogging fishing nets.
Rising noted that the back-to-back heatwaves experienced in 2015 were more severe than those anticipated this year.
Another indicator of El Niño may involve unusual fish sightings along the West Coast.
“These events may attract unique visitors,” explained Nate Jarosz, vice president of animal care at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Historical El Niño events have introduced rare species to the California coast, including yellowfin tuna, dolphinfish, and whale sharks.
Shark sightings tend to spike in Southern California during previous heatwaves.
“Warmer waters appeal to shark species such as mako and great white sharks, potentially shifting their ranges further north,” Jarosz added. “During past heatwaves, coastal species, including blues and macaws, have dense populations along the West Coast.”
El Niño typically contributes to rising global temperatures, with climate change as the primary driver behind recent record warmth. The hottest year documented was 2024, with temperatures approximately 2.65°F (1.47°C) above the mid-19th century average, according to NASA. Scientists noted that the El Niño pattern raised temperatures that year, while 2025 recorded as the third warmest year despite the cooling influence of La Niña. (La Niña is the opposite of El Niño.) The past 11 years represent the hottest years on record globally.
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The “Cold Blob” in Temperature Visualization
Credit: NASA Scientific Visualization Studio/Goddard Space Flight Center
The Earth’s surface has experienced warming over the past 150 years, with the exception of certain areas in the North Atlantic Ocean. This specific region, found southeast of Greenland, has been termed the “warming hole” or “cold mass,” indicating it is up to 1°C cooler than historical averages.
There is ongoing debate among scientists regarding the reason for the existence of this cold blob. Recent studies suggest it may be linked to the weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Circulation (AMOC), a crucial ocean current that distributes warmth from the tropics to Europe.
<p>The AMOC is responsible for transporting warm, salty water from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, where it cools, sinks, and then returns south along the ocean floor. Scientists are concerned that an influx of freshwater from melting ice in Greenland could lower the salinity in this area, potentially slowing the sinking process and weakening the overall circulation.</p>
<p>Recent research indicates that the AMOC may <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/adfa3b">cross a tipping point</a> in the coming decades, potentially leading to a complete collapse. This collapse could have severe consequences, causing significant cooling in Europe and disrupting critical monsoon rains vital for agriculture in Africa and Asia. However, current direct observations of AMOC strength span only 22 years, which is insufficient to establish clear trends.</p>
<p>Climate <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-018-0006-5">modeling</a> suggests that the slowing AMOC reduces the supply of warm water to the North Atlantic, thereby creating this cold mass. Other models, however, attribute a major portion of the phenomenon to atmospheric changes.</p>
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<p>A <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1029/2022GL100420">2022 study</a> by <a href="https://cos.northeastern.edu/people/chengfei-he/">He Chengfei</a> and researchers from Northeastern University, Boston, found that accelerated warming in the Arctic is diminishing the temperature disparity between the polar regions and tropics. This shift is causing the jet stream to move northward into the cold mass area, resulting in stronger westerly winds that increase evaporation, drawing heat away from the ocean.</p>
<p>As evaporation intensifies, cloud cover also increases. Some research indicates that this cloud cover may further contribute to the cooling of the blob.</p>
<p>Research led by <a href="https://www.pik-potsdam.de/members/stefan/homepage">Stefan Rahmstorf</a> at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research is closely examining the cold mass through climate reanalysis, utilizing direct weather observations from satellites, buoys, and ships, rather than relying on modeling techniques.</p>
<p>Since 1955, they have discovered that heat loss from the ocean’s surface has diminished in the cold mass area. It appears that the ocean is cooling not just at the surface but also at depths of up to 1,000 meters. This indicates that the AMOC is transporting less heat rather than the atmosphere removing more heat.</p>
<p>According to Rahmstorf, “Wind and clouds can only account for a minor portion of the warming hole. While some models suggest atmospheric influences, the data indicates that oceanic factors are the primary causes.”</p>
<p>This finding highlights that the Atlantic circulation has been undergoing changes for decades, intensifying concerns regarding the potential collapse of not only the AMOC but also the surrounding subpolar circulation, which is vital to the process. If this circulation were to shut down, <a href="https://nyaspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/nyas.14659">the UK and neighboring regions may experience even more rapid temperature drops</a> than a full AMOC collapse.</p>
<p>Rahmstorf warns, “The subarctic circulation reaching a tipping point could lead to severe climate impacts in Western Europe as early as the 2040s.”</p>
<p>However, direct measurements of ocean surface heat fluxes are currently lacking, making it challenging to accurately estimate them through modeling. A 2021 study, which used data from Rahmstorf's research, found that winds <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00382-021-06003-4">may account for the majority</a> of the cold blob's formation.</p>
<p>According to He, “Inferring the energy budget of a cold mass using reanalysis poses significant challenges.”</p>
<p>While recent research provides valuable insights, experts like <a href="https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/38605-david-thornalley">David Thornalley</a> from University College London caution that definitive conclusions about the causes of cold blobs remain elusive.</p>
<p>Limited data prevents us from entirely ruling out alternative explanations. For instance, <a href="https://www.sams.ac.uk/people/researchers/fraser-dr-neil/">Neil Fraser</a> from the Scottish Marine Science Society notes that a tributary of the AMOC, known as the Norwegian Current, may be strengthening and transporting additional heat away from the cold mass regions.</p>
<p>In conclusion, while the existence of the cold mass aligns with AMOC weakening, conclusive evidence remains to be established.</p>
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Recent studies reveal that the human brain can learn to multitask effortlessly, often without our awareness.
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For years, experts believed that the brain couldn’t handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This was attributed to the prefrontal cortex, a key brain region responsible for logical planning and problem-solving, known for its rigidity.
“We are wired to focus on one task at a time, which is often beneficial,” explained Maximilian Riesenhuber, a neuroscience professor at Georgetown University and lead researcher of the study published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience. “This allows individuals to maintain focus while managing other responsibilities effectively.”
Previous research suggested that when individuals multitask, their overloaded prefrontal cortex swiftly switches between tasks.
Riesenhuber’s experiments demonstrated that the brain uses alternative strategies that develop over time through practice and experience, enabling unconscious task execution and freeing the prefrontal cortex for other duties.
The study involved 11 participants aged 18-29, who spent several weeks using an app to categorize computer-generated car images based on shared characteristics, repeating the process over 30,000 times within 5 to 10 weeks.
Initially, imaging tools indicated high activation in the prefrontal cortex; however, after weeks of task repetition, participants utilized the temporal cortex, a region associated with long-term memory, for categorization.
Riesenhuber noted that the findings suggest the prefrontal cortex can forge connections to relay information to the temporal cortex more effectively.
“This represents a form of automation, liberating the brain’s front regions to engage in additional tasks that require attention,” he stated.
This ability to master multitasking without conscious effort explains several automatic functions in daily life.
Riesenhuber pointed out that while novice drivers must fully concentrate on operating a vehicle, seasoned drivers can engage in conversation or listen to music while driving.
Michael Schoenberg, a licensed psychologist and neurosurgery expert at the University of South Florida, not involved in the study, emphasized that this research sheds light on the development of specialized skills, like analyzing brain scans or performing at Olympic levels in gymnastics.
“I have colleagues proficient in EEG tests, while I struggle to interpret them,” Schoenberg remarked. “In sports, mastering activities like the balance beam demands considerable focus and concentration, but repetitive training fosters muscle memory.”
Riesenhuber believes this principle also applies to essential aspects of childhood development, including learning to recognize objects or names, enabling automatic responses throughout life.
“We don’t examine a tree and ponder if it’s a tree,” he noted. “People aren’t born with knowledge of objects; they learn to inherently associate meaning with their surroundings.”
Variability in brain rewiring capabilities suggests some individuals naturally excel at multitasking. The Georgetown experiment showcased significant differences in how quickly participants could engage their temporal cortex and relieve the prefrontal cortex for car categorization tasks.
“This prompts many new inquiries,” Riesenhuber said. “What triggers this variation? The answer remains elusive.”
Optimistically, Schoenberg asserts that everyone possesses the potential to optimize their multitasking abilities, regardless of the decline in learning speed often seen in older age.
Frustration Can Impede Progress
Beyond patience and perseverance, few shortcuts exist for enhancing task efficiency.
“The study required around four weeks,” he explained. “The essential takeaway is that multitasking necessitates consistent practice for efficiency. Rapid improvement isn’t realistic. It demands time to form new neural pathways.”
Dr. David T. Jones, a Mayo Clinic neurologist, cautions that the brain has processing limits, so self-frustration can hinder multitasking efforts.
“Managing emotions is as demanding as sorting numbers or identifying images,” Jones added. “Self-criticism just adds to your cognitive load, making performance suffer.”
A practical strategy for handling multiple pieces of information is to break them into smaller, manageable segments, akin to how we handle phone numbers.
“Memorizing lengthy strings of digits isn’t necessary; we categorize them using dashes,” he explained. “Thus, three numbers become a single item, making it easier to hold that chunk in your memory.”
How AI Influences Multitasking
Schoenberg warned against excessive reliance on technology for multitasking, like using AI for writing or data analysis, which may counteract our brain’s developed multitasking capabilities. A new study indicates that our multitasking proficiency only emerges after gaining a specific level of expertise, showing that prolonged dependence on AI could obstruct the acquisition of complex skills.
“Mastery depends on our ability to recognize patterns; over-reliance on AI prevents that,” Schoenberg stated. “Developing efficient pattern recognition enhances our capacity to multitask, enabling quicker decisions and simultaneous integration of various elements.”
In 2016, waves supercharged by El Niño impacted the California coast.
Eliasson/Zuma Wire/Shutterstock
Recent headlines have been buzzing with news about the impending “Godzilla El Niño.” In reality, there’s an 80% chance of an El Niño developing by September. While most climate models forecast a moderate event, some hint at the possibility of a stronger Super El Niño.
However, the broader outlook remains concerning. Regardless of its intensity, we can expect more damaging El Niño events in the coming decades. Even if these events are less powerful, their effects will be pronounced in an increasingly warmer world.
As Axel Timmermann from the Busan National University states, “Even a standard El Niño could create larger regional and global impacts.” His research indicates that both El Niño and La Niña events—collectively referred to as ENSO events—are predicted to become stronger and will increasingly influence weather patterns across the Atlantic Ocean.
Timmermann’s team has found that computer model simulations predict intensified extremes for El Niño-La Niña phenomena, leading to a more pronounced impact in remote regions, especially Europe.
The El Niño phenomenon is fundamentally about the water and wind dynamics in the Pacific Ocean. During the neutral state, trade winds push surface water westward, creating warm water accumulations in the western Pacific. Meanwhile, cold water rises near South America, replacing the warm water displaced by these winds, leading to increased rainfall.
However, when trade winds weaken or reverse, warm water can flow eastward, shifting rain patterns and triggering positive feedback loops that amplify El Niño events. This shift can cause droughts in countries like Australia and Indonesia while leading to floods in South America.
This is also why El Niño contributes to rapid global warming. A larger expanse of warm water enhances evaporation, releasing energy as latent heat and transferring heat into the atmosphere.
El Niño’s intensity is gauged by how much warm water flows east towards South America, often indicated by sea surface temperature anomalies exceeding 0.5°C. While “Super El Niño” is not a scientific term, it is often defined by temperature increases above 2 degrees Celsius; “Godzilla El Niño” references temperatures above 3 degrees Celsius, as noted by Adam Scaife from the Met Office Hadley Centre.
As El Niño unfolds, negative feedback loops can emerge, such as increased cloud cover over the central Pacific, which can lead back to neutral conditions or even shift to La Niña, where stronger westerly winds push cold water westward.
The three strongest El Niño events recorded occurred in 1982-83, 1997-98, and 2015-16, each causing significant harm to ecosystems and human populations, including mass mortality of corals and marine life.
Each Super El Niño has resulted in economic damages amounting to trillions of dollars. A 2023 study by Christopher Callahan from Indiana University found a direct correlation between the magnitude of economic loss and the intensity of Pacific ocean temperatures: “If a major El Niño occurs this year, we should anticipate economic losses in the trillions, similar to past events.”
As global temperatures rise, future El Niños and Super El Niños will likely become increasingly damaging. Richard Allan from the University of Reading, UK, states, “The science is clear.” He emphasizes that ENSO-related flooding is expected to worsen due to increased atmospheric moisture, leading to more intense rainfall during storms. Hotter conditions will also exacerbate droughts, causing longer and more severe dry spells.
Some climate models propose that warming could amplify the feedback mechanisms driving ENSO events, possibly leading to greater intensity in both El Niño and La Niña, and quicker transitions between the two, referred to as “climate whiplash.” This may complicate society’s adaptation to environmental changes.
“This means greater fluctuations between wet and dry years for numerous regions,” explains Malte Stucker, a member of Timmermann’s team at the University of Hawaii.
Worse yet, the team’s research suggests that these intensified fluctuations could synchronize ENSO events with the North Atlantic Oscillation. If this occurs, Europe may experience significant variability in flooding and drought patterns.
“Such a change would be a major shift for Europe since El Niño typically has minimal influence on its weather patterns under current conditions,” Stucker notes.
Though there is strong evidence suggesting that future El Niños of similar magnitude will cause more destruction, the likelihood of El Niño events intensifying remains highly debated. “There are substantial disagreements regarding the future behavior of El Niño and La Niña,” Scaife points out.
Not all climate models predict an intensification of El Niño, yet many do connect it closely with regions like the Atlantic Ocean, suggesting that El Niño’s impacts across the Pacific may strengthen in the coming years.
Even if ENSO events do intensify, they won’t continue to do so indefinitely, according to Timmermann. He notes that this intensification is partly due to rapid warming of water approximately 100 meters deep across the Pacific; ENSO events may weaken as groundwater temperatures equilibrate and differentials decrease.
What about the fish stocks? Such a decline may not materialize until after 2150, so fasten your seatbelts for a turbulent ride ahead.
Two experts have raised concerns about the understaffing of the Risk Management Program (RMP). Rick Engler, a former member of the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board until his retirement in 2020, stated that there are insufficient EPA staff to efficiently oversee the approximately 11,500 facilities included in the program.
He noted, “We have a regulatory framework with a completely inadequate testing force,” highlighting an issue that has persisted across multiple presidential administrations.
In its 2027 budget proposal, the Trump administration intends to eliminate funding for Engler’s former chemical safety board. The request is to zero out your funds.
Moreover, the administration plans to rescind a set of updates to the RMP regulations, many of which are set to become effective next year.
The Biden administration’s finalized rule changes require companies to enhance their preparedness for chemical incidents caused by natural disasters like hurricanes and introduce programs for employees to report issues anonymously. Facilities will also be tasked with assessing the feasibility of implementing safer technologies and processes, among other amendments.
An EPA spokesperson commented, “It’s challenging to determine whether compliance with the RMP rule could have prevented these incidents until we have an investigation report identifying the root cause.”
They added that the U.S. has made significant progress in reducing chemical accidents “without the excessive regulatory burden imposed by the Biden EPA’s 2024 rule,” noting “few studies show a direct correlation between the RMP rule and accident reductions.”
The Biden EPA also unveiled an online platform for the public to seek information about potentially hazardous locations under the RMP program, a resource that the Trump administration subsequently withdrew.
“In 2024, for the first time, the EPA developed a tool for the public to better understand the risks associated with local chemicals,” said Emma Cheese, senior attorney at Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law advocacy organization. “However, in early 2025, the EPA took this tool offline without any notice.”
Environmental advocates argue that this removal leaves communities unaware of the hazards posed by local chemicals. Nonetheless, the Trump administration claims the tool posed a national security threat.
“The Biden EPA disregarded warnings from national security experts about how the 2024 rule would heighten vulnerabilities of chemical facilities and other sensitive sites to potential attacks,” stated an EPA spokesperson.
The EPA proposed to restore tools using more limited data, but shutters remain closed for now.
Investigation into Washington Bombings Faces Defunding
The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board is currently probing a tragic paper mill explosion in Washington state that resulted in 11 fatalities. A 900,000-gallon tank of white liquor used in paper production exploded, leaving seven individuals hospitalized.
A spokesperson from Nippon Dynawave stated the company is focused on recovery efforts while mourning the loss of lives.
“We are quickly assisting first responders in their search for our missing colleague,” the spokesperson remarked. “We are collaborating with our emergency response teams and unions and will provide more information soon.”
Washington National Guard soldiers and airmen aiding first responders after an implosion at the Nippon Dynawave Paper and Pulp Mill in Longview, Washington. Via Washington National Guard
The Chemical Safety Board functions similarly to the National Transportation Safety Board, which investigates accidents involving aircraft and trains. Rather than a regulatory body, its purpose is to ascertain the facts surrounding chemical release incidents.
The Trump administration’s 2027 budget proposal represents a second attempt to reduce funding for the Chemical Safety Board, having made a similar attempt in 2026, which Congress countered by allocating $14 million to the board.
Officials have argued that the safety board’s functions overlap with the roles of the EPA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
“The CSB performs unannounced inspections of the chemical industry and proposes policies it lacks the authority to develop or enforce,” the budget justification states. “Such functions should remain under the jurisdiction of a government agency that can issue regulations.”
It remains uncertain whether the board will investigate the recent California incident, which concluded without injuries or fatalities. A spokesperson did not respond to queries regarding investigation plans or concerning the White House’s funding proposals for the board.
Regarding the Trump administration’s effort to repeal Biden-era reforms to the EPA risk management program, officials claim rescinding these reforms will yield benefits. The industry generates approximately $240 million annually without significantly altering risks.
The Trump EPA’s proposed risk management program aims to uphold all essential accident prevention measures while eliminating duplicative, contradictory, or unproven requirements that inflate costs and create confusion without enhancing safety outcomes, according to an EPA spokesperson.
In public comments, the American Petroleum Institute asserted that the rollback would erase “onerous” provisions that would escalate compliance costs.
The current program mandates that companies submit a comprehensive safety plan to the EPA, detailing safety measures, hazard assessments in case of accidental releases, and emergency response procedures.
The proposed changes seek to enhance communication regarding chemical risks to nearby communities, improve worker involvement in safety management programs, and incentivize the adoption of safer alternatives.
Stephanie Herron, organizing director of the Environmental Justice Health Alliance for Chemical Policy Reform, characterized these changes as “common sense baseline protections.”
These regulations also expanded the list of chemicals covered by the program.
The rollback proposed by the Trump administration is not final. Public comments regarding the proposed rules to rescind reforms were accepted until May 11, meaning the EPA must still consider feedback and address significant concerns.
During Trump’s first term, similar reform efforts initiated by the Obama administration were rescinded after a fertilizer explosion in Texas killed 15 people and injured more than 200. The chemical responsible for the explosion, ammonium nitrate, is not regulated under the RMP.
Engler noted, “There was a ping-pong effect of change,” referring to the continual back-and-forth shifts between Republican and Democratic administrations.
History of Violations at Southern California Plant
Methyl methacrylate (MMA), the chemical that posed an explosion risk at the GKN Aerospace plant in California last week, is not as widely used today and has been removed from the EPA’s risk management program. Inhalation of volatile organic compounds can lead to eye and skin irritation, coughing, wheezing, headaches, and shortness of breath.
Evacuees gathering for food in Garden Grove on Sunday after a chemical leak from a large storage tank threatened local residents. Blake Fagan/AFP via Getty Images
When a 7,000-gallon tank of chemicals began overheating on May 21, there were fears that chemicals would escape into nearby neighborhoods. Fortunately, with the situation stabilized, the last 16,000 evacuated residents returned home on Tuesday.
Though the California facility is not part of the RMP, it has faced a history of enforcement actions from both local and state regulators, including violations related to above-ground petroleum storage and local water quality regulations.
Additionally, the company has settled approximately $910,000 with local air quality regulators over alleged violations.
Recent findings from Ohio State University indicate that tomato juice, rich in lycopene and soy isoflavones, significantly lowers proteins linked to chronic inflammation, opening avenues for effective food-based treatments.
Tomato-soybean juice is packed with lycopene and soy isoflavones.
“The goal is to explore whether we can utilize food-based interventions to modulate inflammation,” states Jessica Cooperstone, Ph.D., from Ohio State University.
“Moreover, we aim to test this rigorously to confirm the anti-inflammatory effects rather than simply making claims,” she added.
Lycopene, a carotenoid responsible for the red hue in tomatoes, along with soy isoflavones—flavonoids that mimic estrogen—are both phytochemicals aiding plant growth.
Several years ago, researchers created a beverage high in lycopene from tomatoes, infused with soy isoflavone extract, inspired by studies linking diets rich in these foods with a lowered risk of prostate cancer.
Ongoing research has shown that increased intake of this beverage correlates with reduced prostate-specific antigen levels in some prostate cancer patients, while other studies suggest that consuming tomatoes and soy may influence inflammatory and metabolic pathways associated with obesity and various chronic ailments.
“The findings indicate enough evidence that compounds in tomato and soy can modulate inflammation, prompting us to conduct human trials,” Dr. Cooperstone explained.
In a recent study, 12 healthy obese adults consumed two 6-ounce (177 ml) cans of tomato-soy juice daily for four weeks.
Following a washout period, participants drank a low-carotenoid control tomato juice for an additional four weeks.
“Our hypothesis is that lycopene in tomatoes and isoflavones in soybeans are the drivers of these effects, justifying the use of control other than plain water,” Cooperstone noted.
The research team collected blood samples before and after the study, analyzing them for cytokines (pro-inflammatory proteins produced by the immune system).
Significant reductions were observed in three cytokines: interleukin (IL)-5, IL-12p70, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), with a notable trend toward reduced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a), which did not reach statistical significance.
They also assessed urine samples before and after each trial phase for changes in metabolites, which represent biochemical reactions necessary for energy production and body functions.
Results indicated that both tomato-soy juice and the control tomato juice triggered common alterations in metabolite profiles, suggesting that tomato-driven effects can occur even without lycopene.
Particularly distinct changes in soy isoflavone metabolites were noted with the consumption of tomato and soybean juices.
While more research is essential, these findings bolster the notion that food-based interventions can influence human biology.
“This likely stems from the fact that our intervention contains more than just these two compounds,” Dr. Cooperstone mentioned.
“Ultimately, our aim is to deepen our understanding of how diet impacts health.”
“To ensure validity, clinical trial testing is necessary. That’s precisely what we are conducting here.”
Animal model studies have also indicated that soy-tomato juice may mitigate inflammation and severity in chronic pancreatitis, aligning with projections from current clinical trials suggesting improved outcomes for pancreatitis patients.
“Patient care for pancreatitis primarily focuses on alleviating pain and gastrointestinal symptoms,” Dr. Cooperstone stated.
“Our hypothesis posits that tomato and soybean juice could serve as an intervention to diminish inflammation and enhance life quality for patients.”
Findings of this study are published in the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.
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Maria J. Chorolla et al. 2026. Tomato-soy juice reduces inflammation and modulates urinary metabolome in obese adults. Molecular Nutrition and Food Research 70 (5): e70420; doi: 10.1002/mnfr.70420
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Unusual gases emerging from geothermal springs in Zambia’s Kafue Rift hint at the formation of deep cracks in the Earth’s crust, potentially indicating the early development of a new tectonic boundary.
Map highlighting expansion zones within Zambia’s Central African Plateau. The Kafue Rift is interconnected with the Luano and Luangwa rifts to the northeast, alongside the western branch of the East African Rift System in the Rukwa Rift (RRB) and Rungwe Volcanic Province (RVP). Image credit: Karolytė et al., doi: 10.3389/feart.2026.1799564.
Research led by Professor Mike Daly from the University of Oxford indicates that the helium isotope signature of hot springs in the Kafue Rift reveals a direct connection to the Earth’s mantle, found 40 to 160 km beneath the surface.
This fluid connection supports the notion that the Kafue Rift fault boundary is active, possibly signifying the onset of the breakup of sub-Saharan Africa and influencing the Southwest African Rift.
The Kafue Rift forms part of an extensive 2,500 km rift valley stretching from Tanzania to Namibia, extending towards the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Researchers focused on this area due to its unique terrain, geothermal anomalies, and numerous hot springs—indicators of a potentially undiscovered rift system.
Verifying the existence of these new fissures required evidence of cracks penetrating the Earth’s crust, allowing mantle fluids to surface.
“A fissure represents a major crack in the Earth’s crust that triggers subsidence and accompanying elastic uplift,” explained Professor Daly.
“Although a fissure can transition into a plate boundary, such activity often ceases before the lithosphere completely splits.”
Scientists investigated eight geothermal wells and hot springs in Zambia, six located within the suspected Rift Valley and two outside it.
Gas samples were collected from bubbling water and analyzed in a lab to identify the isotopic composition of each element.
Isotope testing could reveal gases originating from surface mantle fluids, providing critical insights into rifting processes.
The isotopes found in the Kafue Rift samples mirrored those from the East African Rift System, an established rift zone, while samples from outside the rift exhibited different characteristics.
Additionally, the samples revealed carbon dioxide levels consistent with gases derived from the mantle.
Helium isotopes serve as indicators of early-stage rifting. With the East African Rift System as a reference, scientists predict that carbon dioxide will become more prominent as volcanic activity intensifies over time.
“Many attributes of the Kenyan Rift Valley suggest that it could eventually serve as Africa’s primary dividing line,” added Professor Daly. “Nevertheless, the East African Rift System exhibits slow rifting.”
“Fragmentation and dispersion face challenges due to the presence of mid-ocean ridges that hinder east-west and north-south development across Africa.”
“The Southwest African Rift system presents another possibility. This rift has essential features and a regional basement structure—a natural weakness in the Earth’s crust—that aligns with surrounding mid-ocean ridges and continental topography.”
“Such alignment may lower the intensity threshold necessary for continental breakup.”
“This study primarily assesses helium data across a vast area of the Southwest African Rift Valley,” concluded Professor Daly. “Following this initial research, a broader investigation is ongoing, with results expected later this year.”
For further details, refer to the study published in the latest issue of Frontiers of Earth Science.
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Ruta Carolite et al. 2026. Southwestern Africa Rift Valley: Isotopic evidence of early continental rifting. Frontiers in Earth Science 14; doi: 10.3389/feart.2026.1799564
Deforestation Driven by Cattle Ranching in the Amazon Rainforest
Credit: Paralaxis/Alamy
The ongoing destruction of the Amazon rainforest, primarily for cattle ranching, poses a significant threat to this vital ecosystem, increasing its vulnerability to irreversible collapse within decades if deforestation persists.
An alarming study from 2022 revealed that global warming surpassing 3.5 degrees Celsius—or even 2 degrees Celsius—could trigger widespread dieback across the Amazon. Current projections indicate the Earth may warm by approximately 2.6°C to 2.7°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100. Notably, this study did not factor in deforestation, which has already resulted in at least a 15% loss of the Amazon.
Researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, including Nico Wandering, are analyzing scenarios for the Amazon’s future, considering the combined impacts of global warming and severe deforestation by 2050. Their findings suggest that if total forest loss reaches 22%, widespread dieback may occur even with just 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming. Since the world has already warmed by approximately 1.3°C to 1.4°C, we could reach 1.5°C by the end of this decade.
While deforestation rates slowed last year, a resurgence could see the Amazon cross its critical tipping point as soon as 2031. The potential timing and scale of deforestation hinges on human carbon dioxide emissions; rates between 22% to 28% could transform 62% to 77% of the Amazon biome into grassland, savannah, or shrubland.
“We discovered that factoring in deforestation reduces the threshold for global warming by about 2 degrees,” says Wandering. “This is primarily because deforestation disrupts the crucial recycling of atmospheric moisture.”
The Amazon’s dense network of trees plays an essential role in maintaining regional moisture levels, with up to 50% of precipitation being recycled within the forests. However, deforestation hampers this process, which can result in a cascading loss of forest areas.
Despite the serious implications of these findings, they are grounded in high deforestation rates threatening currently protected areas. As pointed out by David Armstrong McKay, who contributed to the Tipping Point study at the University of Sussex, Brazil is projected to lose over 28,000 square kilometers of primary forest by 2024. However, projections suggest that by 2025, that figure will nearly halve. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has committed to ending deforestation in the Amazon by 2030; if successful, this could prevent crossing the tipping point even under continued global warming.
While completely halting all deforestation may seem optimistic, Armstrong-McKay notes that even continued deforestation is unlikely to match the worst-case scenarios outlined in current research.
Nonetheless, Brazil is still expected to lose around 0.5% of its primary forest by 2025. In recent years, wildfires have contributed to two-thirds of deforestation, often starting when farmers burn vegetation and then flee into adjacent forest areas.
Once rare, wildfires have become more commonplace as conditions in rainforests grow hotter and drier, a trend likely to worsen with expected El Niño conditions later this year. As a result, the study may be underestimating the Amazon’s vulnerability, according to Dominique Spracklen from the University of Leeds.
“We are observing increasingly large fires,” he states. “Transitioning into this new regime raises significant concerns.”
The Amazon has already transitioned from being a carbon sink to a carbon source; widespread dieback may release enough carbon to increase global temperatures by up to 0.2 degrees Celsius, alongside potentially devastating impacts on terrestrial biodiversity.
“It’s imperative that we divert away from this threshold rather than inch closer to it,” urges Spracklen.
In the past 15 years, the discovery of circumbinary planets—exoplanets orbiting binary stars—has been firmly established. Thanks to observations from NASA’s Kepler Space Telescope and the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), a total of 14 such planets have been identified using the transit method. Recently, innovative techniques applied to TESS data have unveiled 27 new orbiting star candidates, indicating that these unique planetary systems may be more prevalent than previously thought.
Artist’s impression of an orbiting exoplanet and its two parent stars. Image credit: Sci.News.
The newly identified planet candidates range from sizes comparable to Neptune to those with masses up to 10 times that of Jupiter.
The closest candidate is located approximately 650 light-years away from Earth, while the farthest is about 18,000 light-years distant.
“Candidates are distributed across both the southern and northern skies,” said study co-author Ben Montet, an astronomer at the University of New South Wales. “This means that if you have a telescope, at least one of these systems will be observable regardless of the time of year.”
“We discovered 27 planet candidates out of 1,590 binary systems, which signifies nearly 2% of these binary systems have the potential for hosting planets.”
“This could translate into thousands, or even tens of thousands, of planets waiting to be uncovered through data from the new 10-year sky survey conducted by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, known as the Space-Time Heritage Survey.”
“This represents a thrilling first step, revealing the significant work that lies ahead in the coming years.”
The team’s novel planet-detection technique, referred to as posterior body precession, has been used in the past to characterize binary stars but was previously unutilized for large-scale exoplanet searches.
This method involves monitoring the long-term changes in the orbits of visible binary stars due to stellar eclipses. Variations in the timing of these eclipses—unexplainable by general relativity or stellar interactions—suggest a third object, possibly a planet, may be influencing the star’s orbit.
“A significant portion of our current understanding of planets is based on biased detection methods,” states lead author Dr. Margo Thornton, a candidate at the University of New South Wales. “We’ve primarily identified those that are the simplest to detect.”
“This innovative method has the potential to reveal a multitude of hidden planets, particularly those that are not perfectly aligned to our line of sight.”
“It may help illuminate the true distribution of planets in our universe,” added Dr. Montet. “We are enthusiastic about the number of planets we could uncover using this approach.”
“Our preliminary research suggested that we would find 27 candidates at this stage, but we are thrilled to have achieved that.”
“We’re now embarking on an exciting project to validate which of these planets are indeed real.”
The team’s findings will be published in Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.
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Margo Thornton et al. 2026. 27 circumbinary planet candidates detected through posterior body precession of eclipsing binaries observed by TESS. MNRAS 548 (3): stag515; doi: 10.1093/mnras/stag515
James McDonald, New York State Department of Health Commissioner, addresses the measles outbreak.
Jim Franco/Albany Times Union via Getty Images
An increasing number of gamblers are placing bets on measles cases in the United States. In January alone, approximately $9 million was wagered on projected cases via the Calci and Polimarket prediction markets, suggesting that these predictions may accurately model infection spread.
Prediction markets operate by allowing participants to buy and sell shares related to the outcomes of specific future events. Each market poses a question regarding upcoming events, enabling bets on “yes” or “no” outcomes, with the share prices determined by collective betting behavior.
For instance, if 86% of bets forecast a “yes” outcome, a “yes” share costs 86 cents. Should the event occur, the successful bettor would receive $1 for each share bought, while the unsuccessful bettor loses their stake.
The concept of prediction markets originated from scientific research. In 1988, University of Iowa economists Robert Forsythe, George Newman, and Forrest Nelson sought a method to forecast federal elections, ultimately developing a betting market model. This model enabled researchers and students to place modest bets predicting election outcomes.
Market predictions proved to be quite accurate. In 2003, Philip Polgreen, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Iowa, encouraged economists to integrate disease prediction into these markets. Polgreen stated these markets were established “on an ethos of education and public benefit.”
Recently, however, prediction markets have commercialized, driven by companies like Kalshi and Polymarket. While these entities comply with U.S. regulations set by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, they face mounting criticism from federal and state authorities.
For example, these markets have been criticized for allowing bets on conflicts such as the wars in Iran and Ukraine. Critics deem this practice as immoral. In February, a trader known as Magamiman made $553,000 by accurately predicting the timing of Ayatollah Khamenei’s removal from power.
Following the prediction, Khamenei was reported dead on February 28, 2026. This event raised ethical concerns among some U.S. Congress members regarding the potential monetization of state secrets.
Alarmingly, measles cases are reportedly on the rise across the United States, prompting the emergence of a betting market centered on this illness. While the ethical ramifications of such wagers are complex, there may be a beneficial side to this practice. Spencer J. Fox, a professor at Northern Arizona University forecasting diseases like COVID-19, views the measles prediction markets as a potentially rich data source.
For instance, the June 2025 prediction market anticipated roughly 2,000 measles cases for the year, a number very close to the actual reported total of 2,087. “Our model generated numerous worse predictions,” explained Fox.
Epidemiologists employ multiple data streams (vaccination rates, genomic data, and climate data) to forecast disease outbreaks. “Everyone seeks an advantage in predicting infectious diseases, and we continually explore new data streams,” noted Fox, adding that measles forecasts are rare due to the disease’s “highly stochastic” nature.
Cognitive scientist Emile Servan-Schreiber, CEO of prediction market firm Hypermind, believes he understands why measles predictions maintain such accuracy. He suggests these markets leverage “the wisdom of the crowd,” with “amateurs providing cognitive diversity to offset their lack of expertise.”
Nevertheless, Fox emphasizes that prediction markets cannot simply replace epidemiologists’ scientific models. For example, these markets do not account for as many explicit predictions and lack detailed granularity concerning future outcome probabilities. “We would need to make thousands of bets each week on all the different predictions we’re formulating,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Fox asserts that only specialists can accurately predict rare events. “If we don’t invest in developing expertise for infectious disease predictions now, we will be overwhelmed by the next coronavirus.”
Kalshi and Polimarket have yet to respond to requests for comments from New Scientist.
NASA, ESA, IPAC/California Institute of Technology, STScI, Arizona State University
New evidence suggests that the assumptions physicists have held about our universe for over a century might soon be challenged. This emerging research indicates that our universe is far more clumpy than previously believed, potentially unraveling some of today’s most perplexing cosmological mysteries.
In cosmological modeling, simplifications are often made due to the inability to account for all galaxies. Generally, cosmologists assume that the universe is homogeneous and isotropic at large scales, meaning it appears largely uniform in all directions.
This prevailing view is referenced as the FLRW model, named after Alexander Friedmann, Georges Lemaître, Howard Robertson, and Arthur Jeffrey Walker, who developed these ideas in the 1920s. Most cosmological observations rely on this model, but new evidence emerging in three preprint papers could indicate a fundamental flaw.
The first paper, authored by Timothy Clifton from Queen Mary University of London and Asta Heinessen from the University of Copenhagen, presents a novel method to assess the accuracy of FLRW models in describing our universe. You can view it here: A new way to determine whether FLRW models can accurately describe our universe.
This analysis utilizes various formulas for cosmic distances inferred from supernova observations and the density variations of matter. If the FLRW model holds true, certain outcomes should equal zero; hence, a nonzero result may indicate the necessity for a new model. Prior tests have been proposed, but none have definitively signaled flaws in the FLRW framework.
In subsequent papers, linked as second and third, Heinessen and Sophie Marie Cockvin from the University of Southern Denmark undertook this distance measurement challenge using available cosmological data.
Successfully navigating this challenge, the duo employed AI-driven symbolic regression techniques to derive formulas fitting existing distance measurements without relying on the FLRW model, which previous analyses had done. Their results were striking, demonstrating non-zero findings that suggest the FLRW model may be flawed.
“We were surprised by this result, as it challenges much of the established understanding,” Heinesen comments.
“These findings imply a level of complexity in the universe that wasn’t previously recognized,” Clifton expresses. He regards this as a potential first indication that the FLRW model is inadequate, “opening new avenues for exploration and enlightenment.”
Although these findings are promising, they have not yet met the rigorous statistical thresholds required by cosmologists for confirmation. The team will await additional astronomical data that will materialize over the coming years.
However, this development could lead to significant implications for cosmology. The field has wrestled with the puzzling discrepancies surrounding the universe’s expansion rate, as well as the inconsistency between its earlier formation and current behavior. Recent observations have also suggested that dark energy may be evolving.
Clifton proposes that these core enigmas in cosmology could be elucidated by a universe lacking homogeneity. Such averages in measurements may not hold steady over time, he explains.
Subodh Patil from Leiden University notes the importance of cautious interpretation of the data but appreciates the overall approach. “My initial impression is commendable; they are asking the crucial questions,” Patil states.
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Innovative Vaccines in Development to Combat Potential Bird Flu Pandemic
Weyo / Alamy
The emergence of COVID-19 highlighted the urgency of rapid vaccine development, taking approximately one year to roll out the first SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Tragically, this was after millions of deaths and economic turmoil. However, if a bird flu pandemic strikes, we can respond significantly faster, thanks to pre-approved mRNA vaccines that are ready for immediate deployment. Phase III trials are actively being conducted in the UK and US.
“An influenza pandemic is highly likely in the future. It’s crucial we are adequately prepared,” states Richard Pebody from the UK Health and Safety Executive.
The primary threat is the H5N1 avian influenza strain, notably clade 2.3.4.4b. Emerging roughly a decade ago, this strain has sprawled among wild bird populations globally, even reaching Antarctica. It has also been reported in numerous wild mammals and poultry farms. Alarmingly, the infection is widespread among dairy cows in the United States.
Since 2024, over 100 cases of human infection have been documented; however, there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission. The risk continues as long as H5N1 avian influenza remains active.
“While we cannot predict the timing or severity of the next pandemic, proactive preparedness is essential as influenza viruses continue to circulate in animal populations and may adapt,” warns Hiwot Hirui from Moderna.
Moderna’s mRNA-1018 vaccine targeting H5N1 has completed Phase I and II trials with no safety concerns reported. Current Phase III trials involve 3,000 volunteers in the UK and 1,000 in the US.
Typically, vaccine trials assess effectiveness; however, due to the limited prevalence of H5N1 in humans, the focus will be on measuring immune responses in participants. Early results indicate a robust immune response, as noted by Hirui.
The trial prioritizes individuals aged 65 and older, along with poultry workers, who face higher risks of avian influenza exposure.
Some countries are stockpiling traditional vaccines against H5N1; for instance, The UK has secured 5 million doses. However, this conventional vaccine, similar to many seasonal influenza vaccines, is produced using chicken eggs, making it challenging to scale up production or adapt quickly if the virus evolves significantly.
In contrast, mRNA vaccine production can be rapidly scaled and easily modified. This adaptability presents a considerable advantage in pandemic preparedness, as outlined by Pebody.
Countries like England and the US are exploring the rollout of H5N1 vaccines for livestock, especially poultry. This methodology has been employed in various nations for years, with studies in France showing that vaccinating ducks significantly decreased H5N1 infections on farms.
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World food prices are reaching unprecedented levels, comparable to the energy crisis of the 1970s. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is exacerbating inflation, with rising costs for fuel, fertilizers, and pesticides. Are we on the brink of the worst food shock in history?
Many farmers are likely to decrease planting due to soaring costs, possibly leading to food shortages and increased prices later this year. How severe the situation becomes will depend on various factors, including the duration of the conflict and the impact of extreme weather events linked to climate change on crop yields.
“This could escalate into a major crisis for the impoverished and food-insecure,” warns Matin Kaim, a researcher at the University of Bonn, Germany.
“We’re facing a perfect storm. The resolution isn’t straightforward,” states Tim Benton of the University of Leeds, UK. “Even a resolution tomorrow may not yield immediate results, as seen with the post-COVID-19 recovery.”
After decades of decline since the 1970s, global food prices have climbed in real terms since the 2000s, nearing their historic peaks. Climate change intensifies this issue with increasing heatwaves, floods, and storms negatively affecting crop yields, resulting in global food shocks like those observed in 2010. The COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine have also led to significant price spikes.
Rising biofuel production is contributing to increased food prices, with over 5% of food calories now converted into fuel. Some governments have acknowledged the need to reduce food-based biofuels; however, a report suggests that by 2030, 92% of biofuels will still rely on food sources.
Currently, due to US and Israeli actions against Iran, there’s a significant depletion of essential raw materials for food production and distribution. Fuel, particularly diesel, is crucial as it powers agricultural equipment and transports food. Consequently, higher oil prices directly influence supermarket prices.
Fertilizers, crucial for global food supply, are also facing shortages. “If we halted the use of mineral fertilizers globally, it could lead to widespread hunger,” notes Keim.
Nitrogen fertilizers are produced using hydrogen and atmospheric nitrogen to create ammonia, relying heavily on natural gas for hydrogen and electricity. Qatar, with its abundant natural gas, is a significant fertilizer producer, supplying about 15% of the global urea market. However, due to the conflict, this urea cannot traverse the Strait of Hormuz, thus complicating supply chains.
Countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, which produce substantial amounts of their fertilizers from Persian Gulf gas, are facing factory shutdowns due to war-related damages. Additionally, Australia’s main fertilizer facilities are currently non-operational due to an incident.
Consequently, nitrogen fertilizer prices have already surged by over 33% and could escalate further. “If fertilizer costs double, food prices could easily rise by 20 to 30%,” warns Keim.
Beyond urea, Gulf states like Qatar and the UAE are also major sulfur fertilizer producers, essential for various regions and for converting mined phosphates into usable forms for plants.
Urea Fertilizer Readied for Export at Yantai Port, China
CN-STR/AFP (via Getty Images)
Pesticides, essential for safeguarding global food production, are also influenced by rising prices tied to naphtha costs, a fossil fuel derivative used in food packaging.
“In March alone, three of the world’s key naphtha export terminals were targeted in drone attacks,” notes Jide Tijani of Argus Media, UK. These include Russia’s Ustiluga port and facilities in Qatar and the UAE.
The consequences of these developments will likely lead to escalated food prices and a range of other commodities in the coming months and years. “The number of affected markets is staggering,” remarks Jason Hill at the University of Minnesota.
Farmers face increasing costs for fuel, fertilizers, and pesticides, all of which affect their planting decisions. Uncertainties regarding profitability may lead farmers to switch crops or abstain from planting altogether. Speculation and profiteering could further compound price rises, according to Jennifer Clapp at the University of Waterloo, Canada.
How severe could the situation become? The dramatic increases in food prices in the 1970s were partly due to dwindling global food reserves, warns Clapp. While reserves are currently sufficient, prolonged conflict could drastically alter this, especially if abnormal weather caused by climate change negatively affects crop yields.
“There is a substantial chance this could escalate into a crisis of equal or greater magnitude,” Clapp asserts. “Significant climate change could worsen the situation further.”
“Food prices are causing distress across the globe, disproportionately affecting lower-income populations who spend a significant portion of their income on food,” notes Keim.
Additionally, international aid is already diminishing and will likely be further curtailed. “Rising food prices often coincide with increased demand for aid, yet the available funding diminishes as costs escalate,” shares Benton.
This rising tide of food prices may lead to social unrest in the most severely impacted regions, as explained by Paul Behrens at Oxford University. “We’ve observed instability in times of rising food costs throughout history.”
Strategies Nations Can Implement to Mitigate Food Shocks
There are strategies to alleviate the situation. “In Europe, around 15 million loaves of bread are produced daily for biofuel,” points out Behrens, calling it an illogical method for energy generation.
As biofuel production primarily hinges on state incentives, governments can curtail its production to divert more food to markets. “This would make a significant difference,” remarks Keim.
He advocates for an international consensus that limits biofuel production from food sources when prices surge. Unfortunately, such actions have not materialized in past crises.
Instead, nations are likely to ramp up biofuel production to counteract rising fuel prices, which could significantly affect food pricing, according to Keim.
Initiatives are already underway; the United States recently announced an increase in the bioethanol proportion in fuels to mitigate price hikes. Australia is also contemplating similar measures.
However, ramping up food-based biofuels won’t substantially impact fuel prices but will dramatically influence food prices. For instance, a third of corn produced in the U.S. is converted into bioethanol, contributing minimally to gasoline supplies but having a disproportionate effect on food availability, asserts Hill.
“Enhancing ethanol in gasoline harkens back to the 1990s—a policy that fails to address air pollution or climate change,” critiques Simon Donner at the University of British Columbia. “Higher oil prices should instead be seen as an opportunity to transition towards cleaner, more advanced technologies like electric vehicles.”
The global community is unlikely to want a repeat of this supply shock. “This situation poses a significant challenge, raising questions on how to build a more resilient system going forward,” Hill emphasizes.
Accelerating the transition to renewable energy and electric vehicles could leave economies vulnerable to oil price shocks. Furthermore, there’s a need to transform the chemical industry to reduce fossil fuel dependence.
In terms of nitrogen fertilizers, this means generating them from electricity rather than natural gas. “It’s feasible to produce ammonia with zero greenhouse gas emissions,” states Ryan. “The technology exists; the challenge is harnessing enough renewable energy.”
Demand for electricity is surging, especially for data centers supporting AI technology. This scenario is unlikely to improve unless there’s a significant decline in AI development.
In the meantime, there are several ways to optimize fertilizer use. Excessive fertilizer application in many regions leads to runoff into water systems or the release of nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. Techniques to mitigate overuse include precision agriculture, crop rotation with legumes, and the development of crops that utilize fertilizers more effectively.
“We need to promote a more sustainable farming system,” Keim concludes, highlighting that sustainability does not automatically mean organic practices. A shift to organic farming could dramatically elevate food prices and contribute to deforestation, given the need for additional farmland.
“A fundamental change in our food system is imperative,” asserts Behrens. This includes modifying our dietary habits—favoring protein sources such as beans and legumes over grain-fed meat, which require significant fertilizer input. “This transition could yield substantial benefits,” he emphasizes.
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When discussing hair removal options, many products promise quick fixes or a return to the hair’s original luster. Unfortunately, these claims often fall short, leading to subpar and temporary results.
Fortunately, breakthroughs in science may reveal effective strategies to combat this issue.
The intriguing solution could involve freezing hair at extremely low temperatures to produce clones—yes, clones! Sci-fi enthusiasts, get ready to support this innovation.
What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?
The common misconception is that bald individuals lack hair entirely, but that’s not true. When hair is lost, it doesn’t disappear; instead, it shrinks.
“Baldness is a result of hair shrinking,” explains Paul Kemp, CEO of HairClone, a pioneering company dedicated to next-generation hair loss treatments. “The hair isn’t gone; it’s just becoming smaller and less visible.”
The shrinkage occurs due to a type of skin cell known as dermal papilla, which surrounds the base of hair follicles and is essential for hair formation, growth, and texture.
During hair loss, the number of these vital cells—typically around 1,000 per follicle—diminishes dramatically.
This loss is exacerbated by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent derivative of testosterone that affects hair follicles differently across the scalp. Generally, dermal papilla cells on the top of the head are more susceptible to this process compared to those on the sides.
Recent research findings, published in Experimental Dermatology, explore how these skin cells differentiate during early embryonic development, suggesting a genetic basis for why some areas are more prone to hair loss.
“The dermal cells that are lost and those that remain originate from distinctly different populations,” Professor Kemp clarifies. “Essentially, where you experience hair loss can be likened to a ticking clock set from the moment your body begins to develop.”
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Why Cloning Hair Could Cure Baldness
With the loss of dermal papilla cells linked to baldness, researchers are racing to discover ways to replenish them. Hair cloning, also known as hair propagation, is gaining traction, thanks to frontrunners like HairClone.
This pioneering technology is not yet available in the UK or US, but if successful, it could come with a hefty price tag. Kemp notes, “While initial costs will be high, scaling up production should help lower prices, making it comparable to advanced hair transplant techniques.”
Unlike traditional hair transplants, hair cloning can be initiated before significant hair loss occurs, ensuring discreet treatment results.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Hair Root Collection and Preservation:
Healthy hair follicles are extracted from areas where hair is still growing and cryogenically preserved for later use. For optimal results, it’s crucial to gather these follicles while they are still young.
2. Cell Multiplication:
This step involves isolating and multiplying dermal papilla cells in a laboratory setting. As Dr. Jennifer Dillon states: “From one follicle, we can multiply these cells over 1,000 times, resulting in over a million cells.”
3. Replantation:
The cultivated dermal papilla cells are injected back into bald areas of the scalp, returning hair to its natural thickness and fullness. This step is awaiting regulatory approval, but initial clinical data is promising.
While banking hair follicles is currently possible globally, it comes with a significant cost.
What Other Treatments Are Available?
Although hair cloning is a buzz-worthy topic, it isn’t the sole treatment option. A study published in the Cosmetic Dermatology Journal suggests that fat cells harvested from the abdomen could regenerate hair. This method, known as autologous fat grafting (AFG), eliminates the need for cryogenic preservation.
AFG falls under stem cell therapy, using versatile cells that can transform into various cell types to meet regenerative needs. Instead of freezing hair cells, stem cells can be extracted from the patient’s body and directed to grow into hair cells, injected into the scalp just like in hair cloning.
Another innovative treatment in development is microRNA therapy, which fine-tunes gene expression to stimulate hair growth and has the potential to be applied topically, thus reducing invasiveness.
When Will These Treatments Be Available?
As with hair cloning, various stem cell and microRNA treatments are currently seeking clinical approval, potentially becoming available in the coming years. Despite the rising optimism for effective baldness treatments, Dr. Claire Higgins, a tissue regeneration expert at Imperial College London, warns that success in lab trials does not always translate to clinical effectiveness.
Dr. Higgins believes that understanding the specific reasons why some dermal papilla cells are more vulnerable to hair loss will be key in designing more effective treatments. “While we understand the physiological changes leading to hair loss, the underlying causes remain unclear.”
Optimistically, Kemp concludes that future generations will have revolutionary solutions for hair restoration, much like advancements in dentistry. “Rather than waiting for hair loss to occur, we envision a world where individuals can maintain their hair throughout life.”
About Our Experts
Dr. Paul Kemp is the Co-founder and CEO of HairClone. Previously, he led the development of the first multicellular therapy approved by the FDA, currently benefitting millions globally. He also serves as co-director for doctoral training in regenerative medicine at the University of Manchester.
Dr. Claire Higgins is a leading lecturer in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine at Imperial College London, focusing on hair follicles and skin regeneration.
Dr. Jennifer Dillon heads research at HairClone, specializing in the development of cell therapies for hair loss and possessing over a decade of experience in stem cell and cancer research.
The ongoing northward shift of the Gulf Stream indicates a concerning trend: the weakening of the ocean current system crucial for keeping Europe warm. Recent models suggest that unexpected changes in the Gulf Stream may signal an imminent catastrophic collapse of this vital current.
The Atlantic Meridional Circulation (AMOC) is a flow of warm, salty surface water originating in the tropics, moving towards northwest Europe, where it cools, sinks, and returns south along the ocean floor. Specifically, the Gulf Stream is the component that travels from the Gulf of Mexico up the East Coast of the United States, redirecting eastward into the Atlantic Ocean.
As the Greenland ice sheet continues to melt, it releases fresh water into the North Atlantic. This dilution is expected to hinder AMOC’s strength, as the less salty water affects the sinking and southern flow of this essential current. While some studies indicate this phenomenon is already in effect, clear evidence remains elusive.
Recent research led by René van Westen and Henk Dykstra, both affiliated with Utrecht University in the Netherlands, reveals that the weakening of AMOC is altering the Gulf Stream’s path, causing it to shift further north along the U.S. coastline before veering back into the Atlantic Ocean.
The findings demonstrate that the Gulf Stream has already shifted approximately 50 kilometers north over the past 30 years, as indicated by satellite data.
“This shift is measurable,” Van Westen stated. “As a result, it is very likely indicative of AMOC’s weakening.”
Historical reconstructions that estimate the AMOC discharge based on ocean temperatures indicate a 15 percent reduction since 1950. However, monitoring of actual ocean flows began only in 2004, insufficient to determine if the observed changes are natural variations or accelerating trends.
“We’re exploring alternative methods, such as analyzing the Gulf Stream’s pathway,” Van Westen remarked.
The study employs a model with 10-kilometer resolution, rather than the standard 100-kilometer resolution, facilitating the examination of the bulge responsible for the significant volume of water transported by the Gulf Stream.
The trajectory of this bulge varies as one of AMOC’s tributaries, the Deep Western Boundary Current, transports cold saline water southward along the ocean floor. Typically, this current flows below the Gulf Stream, exerting a pull that moves the Gulf Stream southward. However, as AMOC weakens, the Deep Western Boundary Current diminishes as well, leading to a gradual northward shift of the Gulf Stream.
In simulation scenarios extending 392 years into the future, the Gulf Stream is projected to leap more than 200 kilometers northward in a mere two years, followed by the collapse of AMOC two and a half decades later. Previous studies indicate that such a collapse could lead to severe climate consequences, such as a -20°C (-4°F) cold wave in London and an extreme -48°C (-54°F) temperature in Oslo, Norway.
This modeling represents an idealized scenario and does not predict that AMOC will collapse in 400 years. Nevertheless, it does highlight that a rapid shift in the Gulf Stream could serve as an early warning for an impending AMOC closure—a unique early indicator available to us. By that point, it may be too late to averting AMOC collapse, but proactive measures, such as enhancing home insulation and exploring agricultural areas further south, could be taken by Europe.
“We now possess effective early warning indicators that can be quantified,” Van Westen asserts. “This is straightforward to measure.”
Nonetheless, the timeline for AMOC’s potential collapse following Gulf Stream changes remains uncertain. Predictions for AMOC closure vary significantly, ranging from decades to centuries.
Dan Seidoff, a retired oceanographer with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, cautioned that fresh water from Greenland could impact AMOC at a rate and location different from model predictions.
“Critical questions remain about when, how, and why AMOC changes might occur,” he explained. “If changes follow the model’s predictions, it could serve as a precursor indicating Gulf Stream shifts and issue warning signals.”
While the correlation between abrupt changes and AMOC collapse must be validated by additional models, this study strengthens the case that AMOC is indeed experiencing a slowdown, according to Stefan Rahmstorf of the University of Potsdam, Germany.
“The slowdown seems to be happening at a pace faster than predicted in global warming scenarios,” he noted. “Current climate models may not adequately capture the urgency of this issue, potentially altering estimations regarding when the AMOC tipping point will occur.”
Recent research highlights an extraordinary extremophile organism, Deinococcus radiodurans, known for its remarkable resilience. This unique microbe can endure the harsh conditions of radiation, frigid temperatures, and arid environments typically encountered during interplanetary transport. New findings suggest that Deinococcus radiodurans also possesses outstanding resistance to the extreme transient pressures generated by impact ejection from Mars. Consequently, this raises the possibility that such resilient life forms could traverse between planets in our solar system following a significant asteroid impact.
Artist’s impression of an asteroid. Image credit: Mark A. Garlick, Space-art.co.uk / University of Warwick / University of Cambridge.
Impact craters are prevalent on the surfaces of numerous celestial bodies, with the Moon and Mars being among the most cratered.
Scientific findings indicate that asteroid impacts can propel materials across space, as evidenced by the discovery of a Martian meteorite on Earth.
Furthermore, researchers have long speculated that asteroids could also launch microscopic life forms into space.
This theory, known as the lithopanspermia hypothesis, suggests that life could be ejected into space and potentially land on other planets.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from Johns Hopkins University, led by Kariat (KT) Ramesh, simulated conditions under which microbes like Deinococcus radiodurans could be expelled into space due to an impact force.
The researchers placed the bacteria between two steel plates and applied pressure with a third plate, demonstrating that these microbes can withstand pressures of up to 3 GPa (30,000 times Earth’s atmospheric pressure).
By analyzing gene expression, they were able to observe biological stress responses within the bacteria under varying pressures.
While samples subjected to 2.4 GPa started to exhibit membrane damage, the unique structure of the bacterial cell envelope accounts for a survival rate of 60% among the microorganisms.
The transcriptional profiles indicated that these resilient bacteria prioritize repairing cellular damage in the aftermath of an impact.
“While we have yet to confirm the existence of life on Mars, if it exists, it likely shares similar survival capabilities,” Ramesh remarked.
“This study suggests that life could endure being ejected from one planet and travel to another.”
“These findings significantly alter our understanding of the origins of life on Earth,” remarked Dr. Lily Chao, also from Johns Hopkins University.
“Our research indicates that life can survive massive impacts and eruptions, implying that life may travel between planets. Perhaps we are all Martians!”
These findings were published in this week’s edition of PNAS Nexus. For detailed insights, refer to the study.
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Lily Chao et al. 2026. Extremophiles can withstand temporary pressures associated with impact ejection from Mars. PNAS Nexus 5(3):pgag018; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag018.
Geothermal Power Plant at United Downs, Cornwall, UK
Thomas Frost Photography/Geothermal Engineering Limited
The United Kingdom is making strides in renewable energy with the introduction of its first geothermal power generation. This initiative comes at a time when global interest in geothermal energy is surging, driven by advancements in drilling technology and the rising electricity demands from data centers. Located in Cornwall, the United Downs facility is set to generate 3 megawatts of clean energy while also producing lithium for battery manufacturing.
“We’re witnessing a renaissance,” says Ryan Low, CEO of Geothermal Engineering Ltd., the company behind the United Downs project. “There is substantial activity in the United States and Europe, largely fueled by an ever-growing demand for reliable renewable energy.”
As traditional energy grids increasingly rely on weather-dependent sources like wind and solar, geothermal power stands out by offering continuous clean electricity, shorter construction timelines compared to nuclear plants, and a lesser environmental footprint than hydropower.
Geothermal energy has historical significance, heating Roman baths over 2,000 years ago, and has been harnessed for electricity in volcanic regions like Iceland and Kenya for decades. However, it currently accounts for less than 1% of the global energy supply.
Fortunately, the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that geothermal power could satisfy up to 15% of the anticipated increase in electricity demand by 2050, potentially generating more electricity than the combined current consumption of the United States and India.
The United Downs facility represents the evolving landscape of the geothermal industry, facing its share of challenges and successes. Historical mining activities in Cornwall, particularly for tin and copper, encountered issues with water infiltrating faults in the region’s hot granite. The area underwent exploratory drilling during the oil crises of the 1970s and 1980s, but progress stalled.
Low, a geologist, initiated the United Downs project in 2009 and faced significant hurdles in securing funding. “Investing in utilities can resemble oil and gas risks,” he reflects. Despite the challenges, United Downs eventually secured a £20 million grant, mainly from the European Union, and drilled two substantial wells in 2018 and 2019, reaching depths of 2,393 meters and 5,275 meters—deeper than most contemporary projects.
At these depths, the decay of uranium, thorium, and potassium isotopes heats water to 190°C (374°F) under high pressure. Pumps bring this heated water to the surface, creating steam that drives turbines for electricity generation. Furthermore, Lowe discovered the spring water was rich in lithium, a critical component for electric vehicle batteries. Lithium extraction involves a unique process using chemically coated plastic beads, fresh water, and CO2, aiming to produce 100 tonnes of lithium carbonate annually, with plans to scale up to 2,000 tonnes.
The system is designed to maintain pressure within the geothermal reservoir, as the geothermal fluid cycles through the wellbore.
The United Downs project has also attracted £30 million in private equity investment, largely due to the lithium extraction component, which holds the potential to yield returns ten times greater than electricity generation alone. “The addition of mineral extraction has significantly enhanced the project’s appeal,” notes Loh, who holds permits for two 5-megawatt power plants.
European nations such as Hungary, Poland, and France are well-positioned for geothermal development due to accessible hot water sources near the surface. According to think tank Ember, generating 43 billion watts of geothermal energy can be achieved at costs below 100 euros per megawatt hour, comparable to coal and gas.
“Our energy grid remains largely dependent on wind, solar, hydro, and batteries,” says Frankie Mayo from Ember. “However, there is a valuable role for consistent, low-carbon energy generation.”
With advancements in oil and gas fracking technology, geothermal energy is becoming more economically viable beyond just shallow hotspots. Companies like Fervo Energy, a Stanford University spin-off, are pioneering a 115-megawatt geothermal plant to power a Google data center in Nevada, reducing the drilling time for wells from 60 days to just 20.
They employ horizontal drilling techniques and high-pressure water pumps to fracture rock between wells. This method enhances water flow through geothermal reservoirs compared to traditional vertical well settings.
Research predicts that costs for this enhanced geothermal energy could drop to below $80 per megawatt hour by 2027, making it feasible across most U.S. regions. Roland Horne from Stanford University confirms that the administration’s continued support for geothermal tax credits will benefit the industry.
As geothermal power could generate at least 90 billion watts by mid-century—around 7% of the current generation capacity in the U.S., according to the Department of Energy—its potential continues to grow.
“While the cost of hydraulic fracturing is slightly higher,” Horn explains, “the ability to extract three to four times more energy improves overall economics, making geothermal a competitive alternative alongside solar, wind, and gas.”
Concerns are raised regarding potential seismic risks, as German geothermal plants have faced shutdowns after triggering minor earthquakes, alongside fears of water contamination. However, experts like Horne assert that such issues can be effectively managed, and the growing number of geothermal projects—over six underway in the U.S., each promising at least 20 megawatts—will enhance community confidence and attract financial support, says Ben King of the Rhodium Group think tank.
“While geothermal energy may not be applicable everywhere, it certainly holds the potential for a more prominent role in our energy grid as we approach 2050, especially in the face of increasing energy demands,” King concluded.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery of ancient bacteria trapped in ice. This ancient bacteria could provide insights into antibiotic resistance—and potentially exacerbate the existing problem.
A recent study published in Frontiers of Microbiology highlights the analysis conducted by Romanian scientists on the antibiotic resistance profiles of these ancient bacterial strains.
Known as Cyclobacter SC65A.3, these bacteria have been preserved for approximately 5,000 years beneath a thick layer of ice in Scalisoara Cave, located in northwestern Romania.
According to the study authors, “These ancient bacteria are invaluable for science and medicine; however, meticulous handling and laboratory safety measures are crucial to mitigate the risk of uncontrolled spread.” Dr. Cristina Purcarea, a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Biology, emphasized this point.
As antibiotic resistance continues to rise, conventional antibiotics may soon become ineffective in treating infections.
The issue of antibiotic resistance is largely driven by overuse. However, Professor Purcarea noted that Cyclobacter SC65A.3, recovered from thousands-of-years-old ice deposits, reveals the natural evolution of antibiotic resistance long before the introduction of modern antibiotics.
To recover this bacterial strain, scientists drilled a 25-meter ice core representing a 13,000-year timeline and transported the frozen samples in sterile bags to their laboratory.
Once in the lab, researchers analyzed the bacterial DNA embedded in the ice chips to explore how the bacteria survived such frigid temperatures and how they interacted with various antibiotics.
The bacterium was recovered from the great hall area of the Scalisoara cave in Transylvania, Romania – Credit: Getty Images
Scientists found that Cyclobacter possessed over 100 genes related to antibiotic resistance.
They tested these bacteria against 28 different antibiotics and discovered resistance to 10 of them, which included drugs used to treat infections of the lungs, skin, blood, reproductive system, and urinary tract.
Purcarea noted, “The 10 antibiotics to which we found resistance are commonly used in both oral and injectable therapies for a variety of serious bacterial infections in clinical settings.”
The findings suggest that strains capable of surviving in cold environments may serve as reservoirs for genes that aid in drug resistance.
“As the ice melts and releases these microorganisms, their resistance genes could spread to modern bacteria, further complicating the global issue of antibiotic resistance,” Purcarea explained.
Nevertheless, there is a silver lining. Cyclobacter SC65A.3 contains nearly 600 genes with unknown functions, including 11 genes that have the potential to kill other microorganisms or inhibit their growth.
This indicates that this strain could pave the way for the development of new treatments and therapies, particularly against major antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Artist’s depiction of QT45 superimposed on a microscopy image of a frozen environment conducive to RNA replication (based on AlphaFold3 predictions)
Microscope images by Elfie Chan and James Atwater
According to the RNA World Hypothesis, life initiated with RNA molecules that evolved to replicate themselves. Recent discoveries reveal an RNA molecule capable of this self-replication, executing essential processes, though not simultaneously.
“It’s been a long quest to reach a point where we confidently state RNA can replicate itself under the right conditions, showcasing its potential,” says Philip Holliger at the MRC Molecular Biology Laboratory, Cambridge, UK.
In living organisms, proteins are pivotal, catalyzing chemical reactions while their synthesis instructions are encoded in double-stranded DNA. RNA, existing typically as a single strand, serves as a chemical analog of DNA.
While RNA is not as reliable for information storage due to its instability, it exhibits a unique capability: folding into protein-like enzymes that catalyze chemical reactions. This dual function of RNA as both storage and catalyst led to the hypothesis in the 1960s that the genesis of life may have hinged on self-catalyzing RNA molecules.
However, identifying such self-replicating molecules has proved exceptionally challenging. It was previously assumed that self-replicating RNA would be relatively large and complex, yet large RNAs are cumbersome to spread and duplicate.
Furthermore, while shorter RNA molecules have been known to form spontaneously under suitable conditions, the likelihood of larger molecules doing the same remains low.
“This insight led us to reconsider; perhaps something simpler and smaller could efficiently complete this process,” Holliger explains. “That search yielded QT45.”
RNA comprises nucleotide building blocks. The research team initiated the process by generating 1 trillion random sequences, each 20, 30, or 40 nucleotides long. They selected three capable of binding nucleotides and combined them for several rounds of evolution, introducing random mutations to enhance performance.
The resultant molecule, QT45, is composed of just 45 nucleotides. In alkaline, near-freezing water, single-stranded RNA can serve as a template to join short strands of two or three nucleotides, creating complementary strands, including those that mirror itself. “Although the process is currently slow with low yields, this is expected,” notes Holliger.
QT45 can also replicate itself using its complementary strands. “This is the first instance of RNA that can generate itself and its coding strand, representing the two core reactions of self-replication,” states Holliger. However, the team has yet to achieve both reactions occurring within the same container. Future efforts will focus on further evolving the molecule and experimenting with conditions like freeze-thaw cycles to see if simultaneous reactions are possible.
“The most fascinating aspect is that once the system begins self-replication, it also starts self-optimization,” Holliger adds, as the error-prone process generates various variants, some potentially more effective at replication.
“The findings from the Holliger lab represent a vital step toward fully self-replicating RNA.” asserts Sabine Muller from the University of Greifswald, Germany.
“A key takeaway from this discovery is the identification of intermediate-sized RNA oligomers capable of self-synthesizing,” remarks Zachary Adam at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
The vast number of possible 45-nucleotide-long RNA sequences is “inconceivably large,” Adam notes, making the team’s discovery of QT45 from an initial batch of 1 trillion sequences mind-boggling.
In early Earth’s environment, a molecule akin to QT45 might have successfully replicated itself amidst conditions similar to those in modern-day Iceland, combining ice with hydrothermal activity that creates freeze-thaw cycles and pH gradients. Holliger believes compartmentalization is essential to segregate key components, with numerous possibilities for this occurrence, from pockets of meltwater in ice to cellular vesicles spontaneously formed from fatty acids.
Physicists from the University of Massachusetts Amherst have proposed that the ultrahigh-energy neutrinos detected by the KM3NeT experiment may indicate an exploding “sub-extreme primordial black hole,” hinting at new physics beyond the Standard Model.
The KM3NeT experiment observed neutrinos with energies around 100 PeV, and IceCube detected five neutrinos exceeding 1 PeV. The explosion of a primordial black hole may account for these high-energy neutrinos. Image credit: Gemini AI.
Black holes are a well-understood phenomenon, originating when a massive star exhausts its fuel and undergoes a supernova explosion, resulting in a gravitational force strong enough to trap light. These traditional black holes are massive and relatively stable.
However, as noted by physicist Stephen Hawking in 1970, primordial black holes potentially formed not from stars, but from the universe’s primordial conditions following the Big Bang.
Theoretical in nature, primordial black holes are dense enough that light cannot escape. Surprisingly, they are expected to be significantly lighter than the black holes observed to date.
Hawking also demonstrated that when these primordial black holes heat up, they emit particles through a phenomenon known as Hawking radiation.
“The lighter the black hole, the hotter it becomes, leading to increased particle emission,” explained Dr. Andrea Tam, a physicist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
“As a primordial black hole evaporates, it becomes lighter and hotter, releasing even more radiation during the explosive process.”
“What our telescope detects is, in fact, Hawking radiation.”
“If we were to witness such an explosion, we would create a comprehensive catalog of all elementary particles in existence, confirming both known particles, like electrons and quarks, and those not yet observed, including hypothesized dark matter particles.”
In 2023, the KM3NeT experiment successfully detected this elusive neutrino—a result Dr. Tam and his team had anticipated.
However, a challenge arose from the IceCube experiment, which failed to record similar phenomena or approach even a fraction of KM3NeT’s findings.
If primordial black holes are prevalent and detonating often, why are we not inundated with high-energy neutrinos? What could explain this inconsistency?
Dr. Joaquín Iguazu Juan, a physicist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, suggested, “We believe a primordial black hole with a ‘dark charge’, termed a quasi-extreme primordial black hole, could bridge this gap.”
“Dark charge mimics standard electric force but features a heavy hypothesized electron, the dark electron.”
Dr. Michael Baker, also from UMass Amherst, remarked, “Our dark charge model is complex but may provide a more accurate depiction of reality.”
“It’s remarkable that our model explains this previously unexplainable phenomenon.”
Dr. Tam added, “Dark-charged primordial black holes possess unique properties that differentiate them from simpler primordial black hole models, allowing us to resolve all conflicting experimental data.”
The research team is optimistic that their dark charge model not only elucidates neutrino observations but also addresses the enigma of dark matter.
“Observations of galaxies and the cosmic microwave background imply the existence of some form of dark matter,” explained Baker.
“If our dark charge hypothesis holds, it could suggest a considerable number of primordial black holes, aligning with other astrophysical observations and accounting for the universe’s missing dark matter,” Dr. Iguazu-Juan stated.
“The detection of high-energy neutrinos represents a significant breakthrough,” remarked Baker.
“It opens a new window into the universe, enabling us to empirically verify Hawking radiation, gather evidence of primordial black holes, and explore particles beyond the Standard Model, while inching closer to solving the dark matter mystery.”
For more details, see the findings published in Physical Review Letters.
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Michael J. Baker and colleagues. We explain the PeV neutrino flux in KM3NeT and IceCube with quasi-extreme primordial black holes. Physics. Pastor Rhett, published online December 18, 2025. doi: 10.1103/r793-p7ct
Nasal Sprays Target the Main Entry Point of the Influenza Virus
Tatyana Maksimova/Getty Images
Recent research highlights a novel antibody nasal spray that showed promise in early trials with mice, monkeys, and humans for preventing influenza infections. This spray can neutralize various strains of influenza viruses, including those transmitted from animals, potentially aiding in the fight against future pandemics.
The primary method of combating the spread of influenza remains the annual vaccine, designed to stimulate the immune system to produce targeted antibodies against circulating virus strains. However, due to the constant mutations of influenza viruses, vaccines can only offer limited protection.
To enhance vaccine efficacy, pharmaceutical innovator Johnson & Johnson has developed a groundbreaking antibody, CR9114, capable of neutralizing diverse influenza strains. This antibody recognizes and binds to invariant components of the virus, allowing for consistent defense against mutations.
Initially, CR9114 was injected into animals, but it didn’t provide adequate protection due to insufficient concentrations reaching the nasal cavity—the virus’s primary point of entry. In 2022, the Leiden Institute licensed CR9114, creating a formulation suitable for nasal administration.
Subsequent studies demonstrated that administering CR9114 via nasal spray to mice and macaque monkeys shielded them from various influenza A and B strains, including one isolated during the 1933 flu outbreak.
In addition, preliminary tests involving 143 individuals aged 18 to 55 revealed that using the nasal spray twice daily maintained steady antibody levels in their nasal passages, showing no significant side effects. Mucus samples collected afterward successfully neutralized different strains of influenza, including the avian flu strain that affected humans in China in 2013.
The next phase of research will expose nasal spray users to live influenza viruses to determine its actual effectiveness in preventing illness.
While nasal sprays may not guarantee 100% effectiveness against all entry routes of the virus, they remain a crucial defense mechanism against influenza. According to Linda Wakim from the University of Melbourne, “Even if you block entry through the nose, you’ll still be eliminating the virus at its main access point for infection.”
Wakim also notes that while the nasal spray may require more frequent dosing than a standard flu shot, it could significantly benefit high-risk populations, such as immunocompromised individuals and frontline health workers, especially during pandemics when rapid public health responses are essential.
Astronomers utilizing the groundbreaking Event Horizon Telescope—a global network of eight advanced radio telescopes—have pinpointed the likely origin of a massive space jet emanating from the core of Messier 87.
This Webb/NIRCam image showcases the extraordinary space jet of Messier 87. Image credits: Jan Röder, Maciek Wielgus, Joseph B. Jensen, Gagandeep S. Anand, R. Brent Tully.
Messier 87, a colossal elliptical galaxy situated approximately 53 million light-years away in the Virgo constellation, is of great scientific interest.
Also known as M87, Virgo A, and NGC 4486, this galaxy hosts a supermassive black hole, approximately 6 billion times the mass of our Sun.
This supermassive black hole generates a striking, narrow jet of particles that extends roughly 3,000 light-years into the cosmos.
To investigate such distant regions, astronomers are combining radio telescopes from around the world to create a virtual Earth-sized observatory known as the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT).
Using EHT observations of M87 conducted in 2021, researchers assessed the brightness of radio emissions at various spatial scales.
They discovered that the luminous ring surrounding the black hole does not account for all radio emissions, identifying an additional compact source approximately 0.09 light-years from the black hole that aligns with the predicted location of the jet’s base.
“By pinpointing where the jet originates and how it connects to the black hole’s shadow, we are adding significant insights into this cosmic puzzle,” stated Saurabh, a student at the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and a member of the EHT Collaboration.
“The newly collected data is currently undergoing analysis with contributions from international partners and will soon incorporate additional telescopes, improving our understanding of this area,” remarked Dr. Sebastiano von Fehrenberg, an astronomer at the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics.
“This will provide us with a much clearer view of the jet’s launch region.”
“We’re transitioning from merely calculating the positions of these structures to aiming for direct imaging,” he added.
“The jet is postulated to be launched using the rotational energy of the black hole through electromagnetic processes, presenting a unique laboratory where general relativity and quantum electrodynamics intersect,” explained Professor Bert Lipperda, also from the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics.
“Studying how jets are launched in proximity to a black hole’s event horizon is a crucial advancement in our comprehension of these cosmic titans.”
“The observational data will empower scientists to test theories regarding the interplay between gravity and magnetism in the universe’s most extreme environments, bringing us closer to understanding the ‘engines’ that shape entire galaxies.”
Find more details in the result published in the Journal on January 28, 2026, in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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Saurabh et al. 2026. Investigation of the jet-based ejection from M87* with 2021 Event Horizon Telescope observations. A&A 706, A27; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202557022
Leang Bulu Betu, a rock shelter located in the Maros Pankep karst region of Sulawesi, Indonesia, has become a pivotal site for paleoanthropological research. Scholars have uncovered one of the most thorough records of early human habitation in Wallasia, which serves as a critical junction between Asia and Australia. This groundbreaking discovery highlights the timeline of Homo sapiens, revealing their adaptation and existence tens of thousands of years ago, alongside ancient human species.
Leang Bulu Bettue in the Maros Pankep karst region of South Sulawesi. Image credit: Burhan et al., doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0337993.
At Leang Bulu Betu, Basran Burhan and his team from Griffith University have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, stone tools, and animal remains dating back to the Pleistocene era.
Burhan stated, “The depth and continuity of cultural sequences at Leang Bulu Bettue now position this cave as a key site for exploring potential overlaps between different hominin lineages.”
The initial stages of occupation date back approximately 208,000 years and are defined by simple stone tools and evidence of animal slaughter.
Among the significant artifacts are strong stone tools referred to as picks, indicating that archaic human cultural practices predated the arrival of modern humans.
Professor Adam Blum from Griffith University remarked, “These findings suggest an archaic human cultural tradition that persisted into the late Pleistocene in Sulawesi.”
Archaeological evidence indicates a notable transformation around 40,000 years ago, showing advancements in stone technology and the emergence of symbolic behavior, which are closely associated with Homo sapiens.
Burhan noted, “This later phase was marked by a unique technological toolkit and the earliest evidence of artistic expression and symbolic behavior on the island.”
Sulawesi plays a critical role in the narrative of human evolution due to its geographic location between the continents of Asia and Sahul, which once linked Australia and New Guinea, making it a vital conduit for early human migration.
Despite this significance, the area’s dense forests and complex terrains have resulted in a surprisingly minimal archaeological record to date.
This new research raises intriguing possibilities about the coexistence of Homo sapiens with their extinct relatives on Sulawesi.
The researchers propose that Leang Bulu Bettue could provide the first tangible archaeological evidence of this chronological overlap and potential interactions.
The later layers reveal signs of symbolic and cultural behaviors, echoing discoveries at other ancient Sulawesi sites known for rock art and advanced tools.
These advancements were initially thought to be exclusive to Homo sapiens, suggesting that the arrival of modern humans brought not only technological innovations but also new cognitive and cultural practices.
Professor Blum expressed, “Archaeological research on Sulawesi is particularly compelling because, unlike Australia, which shows no evidence of human habitation prior to our species’ arrival, Sulawesi was inhabited by various hominins for a million years before our emergence.”
“If we dig deep enough, we may find evidence of interactions between these different human species.”
Burhan stated, “There may be several more meters of archaeological layers beneath the deepest level we have explored at Leang Bulu Bettue.”
“Further investigations at this site could yield groundbreaking discoveries that reshape our understanding of early human history on Sulawesi and beyond.”
The findings were published in December 2025 in the journal PLoS ONE.
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B. Burhan et al. 2025. A near-continuous archaeological record of Pleistocene human occupation discovered at Leang Bulu Bettue, Sulawesi, Indonesia. PLoS ONE 20 (12): e0337993; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0337993
Ancient Human Jawbone Discovered in Morocco’s Man Cave
Hamza Mehimdate, Casablanca Pre-History Program
Approximately 550,000-year-old fossils discovered in North Africa potentially belong to a shared ancestor of Neanderthals, Denisovans, and modern humans, existing right before these three significant hominin lineages diverged.
Neanderthals and Denisovans, the final common ancestors of modern humans, are believed to have thrived between 765,000 and 550,000 years ago. However, key questions about their existence and habitats still challenge our understanding of human evolution.
Recent fossil discoveries suggest that researchers, including Jean-Jacques Hublin from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, are nearing the pivotal moment of divergence in ancient human lineages.
Hublin and his team examined various fossils, including two adult jawbones, one juvenile jawbone, and several vertebrae unearthed from a cave referred to as the Cave of Mankind near Casablanca, Morocco. One of the adult jawbones had been detailed in a 1969 study, while the remaining specimens are presented for the first time.
The fossilized molars share similarities with early Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, yet their jaw structures resemble ancient African Homo erectus.
Fortunately, these Moroccan hominids existed around the same period as changes in Earth’s magnetic field, recorded within the geological formations containing the fossils, allowing for precise dating to approximately 773,000 years ago.
Hublin described the find as filling a “significant gap” in the African human fossil record dating back to between one million and 600,000 years ago. Paleogenetic studies reveal that the ancestors of Neanderthals and Denisovans diverged around this time, while H. sapiens evolved independently in Africa.
The newly identified fossils are contemporaneous with a hominid population in Spain, previously hypothesized to serve as a common ancestor between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals.
Excavation Team at Moroccan Fossil Site
R. Gallotti, Casablanca Pre-History Program
Both Homo ancestors and Moroccan hominins exhibit “a mosaic of primitive and derived features,” Hublin notes, suggesting possible genetic exchanges across the Strait of Gibraltar. However, notable distinctions exist between the fossils from both areas, with Spanish specimens appearing more Neanderthal-like.
“The last common ancestor likely inhabited both sides of the Mediterranean during that era, indicating a deep African lineage for Homo sapiens opposed to the Eurasian origin theories proposed by some,” Hublin states.
Julian Lewis, a professor at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, expresses intrigue over the physical differences in early Pleistocene hominids closely related to our species.
“The key takeaway is that these differences have been developing for a substantial period,” Lewis concluded, alluding to the arrival of the Homo ancestor in Spain, indicating it may represent one of several species across North Africa that eventually crossed over to Europe.
Chris Stringer from the Natural History Museum in London has also contributed to this discussion. His research, including findings from human fossils in China published last year, suggests that the last common ancestor of Homo sapiens, Neanderthals, and Denisovans could date back over a million years.
“The specific continent for that common ancestor’s existence remains unknown,” Stringer remarked. “Yet even if it lived outside Africa, our analysis indicates that the evolution of Homo sapiens predominantly took place in Africa, suggesting a potential early migration back into Africa for continued evolution.”
These newly identified Moroccan fossils may even represent early specimens of Homo sapiens, though sufficient skeletal fragments are lacking for definitive classification.
Ongoing comparisons with previously studied fossils will help ascertain their evolutionary positioning.
Primordial black holes likely formed shortly after the Big Bang.
Shutterstock/Mohd. Afuza
An exceptionally massive black hole from the early universe may represent a type of exotic starless black hole first theorized by Stephen Hawking.
In August, Boyuan Liu and his team from the University of Cambridge used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to uncover a peculiar galaxy named Abell 2744-QSO1. This ancient galaxy, dating back 13 billion years, harbored a black hole around 50 million times the mass of our Sun but hosted extremely few stars.
“This contradicts traditional theories which dictate that stars must form prior to or simultaneously with black holes,” Liu explained. Typically, black holes are believed to evolve when massive stars exhaust their fuel and undergo gravitational collapse.
Liu and his team conducted initial simulations suggesting that QSO1 might have originated as a primordial black hole—an exotic concept introduced by Stephen Hawking and Bernard Carr in 1974. Unlike conventional black holes, primordial black holes are thought to form from density fluctuations shortly after the Big Bang.
While most primordial black holes likely evaporated by the time of the JWST’s observations, some might have persisted, evolving into larger black holes like QSO1.
Although Liu and his team’s calculations align broadly with their observations, they remain relatively simple and do not factor in the intricate interactions among primordial black holes, gas clouds, and stars.
Now, the authors have employed advanced simulations to investigate how primordial black holes grew in the universe’s infancy. They analyzed how gas dynamics influenced the formation of early primordial black holes and how interactions with newly formed and dying stars affected them.
Their predictions about the black hole’s ultimate mass and the heavy elements present in it are congruent with the findings from QSO1.
“It’s not conclusive, but it represents a compelling possibility,” Liu stated. “These observations suggest that established black hole formation theories may not fully explain the phenomenon, making the notion of a significant primordial black hole in the early universe increasingly plausible.”
Simulations indicate that primordial black holes could be a feasible origin for QSO1, according to Roberto Maiorino, a team member involved in the discovery of black holes. “The alignment of their predicted properties with those of QSO1, in terms of black hole mass, stellar mass, and chemical composition, is both intriguing and promising.”
However, standard models of primordial black holes typically predict that their maximum mass should be around a million solar masses, while Maiorino pointed out that QSO1 is 50 times larger. “Nevertheless, it’s plausible that these primordial black holes are densely concentrated, allowing them to merge and grow rapidly,” he noted.
A further challenge arises from the requirement that for a primordial black hole to initially collapse, a burst of high-energy radiation, like that from a nearby supernova, is essential; however, no potential sources have been identified near QSO1, according to Maiorino.
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LSD May Enhance Brain Rewiring and Alleviate Anxiety
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Two significant trials examining the potential of the hallucinogen LSD to alleviate anxiety are set to conclude in 2026. Early-stage trials have shown promising results, potentially allowing the treatment to be available in the United States by 2027.
Other psychedelics, like psilocybin and MDMA, are already being utilized in certain nations, including Australia and Switzerland, to treat severe depression and PTSD. LSD is gaining attention in mental health studies, primarily because it has been shown to induce deep emotional experiences and may enhance the brain’s capacity to form new neural connections.
A pivotal trial in 2025 demonstrated that a single high dose of LSD significantly reduced moderate to severe anxiety for a duration of at least three months.
Currently, two late-stage trials are ongoing, with results expected in 2026. Each trial involves about 200 participants with moderate to severe anxiety who will receive either 100 micrograms of LSD or a placebo. Their anxiety levels will be monitored over three months post-administration.
In the subsequent 10-month phase, all participants, including those initially on a placebo, will have the opportunity to take LSD if they report their anxiety reaching a predefined threshold on a standardized scale. This design aims to assess the duration of effects following a single dose. Dan Carlin, affiliated with New York biotech firm MindMed, has been involved in both the 2025 trial and the current studies.
The primary distinction between the two studies is that, in the second trial, an additional group will receive 50 micrograms of LSD. The 2025 trial indicated this dosage could induce hallucinations but didn’t effectively diminish anxiety compared to the placebo, thereby addressing a common challenge in psychedelic research—participants often struggle to identify if they received the active drug.
Participants in this third group will be aware they received LSD but will remain uncertain if the dosage is sufficient to alleviate anxiety, as noted by Sandeep Nayak of Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, who is not part of these trials.
If the results of both trials are favorable, the FDA could approve LSD for anxiety treatment in the United States by 2027, potentially leading to approval in Europe and other regions.
“If the upcoming trial confirms results similar to the previous ones from 2025, that should satisfy the FDA,” said Boris Heifetz of Stanford University.
A meaningful impact on patients’ lives is typically defined as a 3 to 5-point difference on the anxiety scale between placebo and LSD groups, as noted by Nayak. The 2025 trial showed a difference of approximately five points, indicating a strong possibility the next trial will meet this threshold. However, any therapeutic benefits must be weighed against the duration of effects and potential side effects.
For instance, temporary psychological distress during treatment might be acceptable to the FDA, unlike long-lasting distress, Nayak stated. Notably, long-term distress was not observed in the 2025 trial.
Even with potential approval, Nayak emphasizes it may take several years for LSD to become widely accessible for anxiety disorders, and it would likely be a last-resort treatment after conventional therapies fail. This is primarily due to the logistical challenges, such as the need for clinicians to supervise patients during psychedelic experiences.
Elon Musk assisted the U.S. government in slashing science budgets
Jason C. Andrew/Bloomberg via Getty Images
One of the most iconic images of 2025 features billionaire Elon Musk, a special adviser in President Donald Trump’s administration, brandishing a gleaming red chainsaw and proclaiming a message about reducing federal funding. This heavy-handed metaphor captured the impending cuts that would have profound impacts on scientific funding, leading to the cancellation of space missions and critical public health and climate programs.
President Trump’s rapid dismantling of decades of American leadership in science has been astonishing, with effects likely to last far longer than anticipated. It began with fervor—just a week after Trump took office in January, he signed an order that temporarily halted grants and loans from federal agencies. This led to thousands of NIH grants being suspended or terminated, which is one of the world’s leading biomedical research funders. According to Grant Witness, a platform tracking changes in federal funding during the Trump era, the contraction in funding from entities such as NIH and NSF totals nearly $3 billion.
Following that initial wave, Musk led an independent task force known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which was charged with slashing government expenditures. While DOGE aimed to cut costs across the federal landscape, many of its moves directly impacted scientists and researchers. There were significant job cuts at agencies such as the CDC, NASA, the EPA, and the NOAA, among others. In October, the Trump administration announced additional cuts targeting major scientific institutions including the US Geological Survey and the National Park Service, which play crucial roles in monitoring the health of the nation’s agriculture and natural resources and protecting biodiversity.
This all reflects a sweeping policy overhaul during Trump’s presidency. Since WWII, the U.S. has championed scientific research as a pillar of progress and prosperity, a notion conceptualized in the 1940s by the architects of the Office of Scientific Research and Development, the predecessor to the NSF. This ethos, dubbed the “Endless Frontier,” was a revolutionary framework for establishing global leadership in research and technology development. Trump’s administration has systematically dismantled it.
Not only did Trump shrink federal research agencies, but his administration pressured universities to ensure their educational and research agendas reflected government interests. Moreover, he took aggressive actions against established scientific principles. Almost predictably, Trump initiated the withdrawal of the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, the preeminent global accord on climate change, shortly after assuming office. Later that year, during a speech at the UN, he labeled climate change “the largest fraud ever perpetrated” and maligned renewable energy as “scams.”
Unsatisfied with these actions, the Trump administration also dismantled key climate data resources and reports previously generated by the government. Staff reductions in many scientific organizations led to the cancellation of essential climate teleconferences at NOAA, and crucial assessments like the U.S. National Climate Assessment were halted. Remaining personnel adhered to Trump’s narrative—for instance, NOAA scientists shocked external climate experts when they dismissed connections between global warming and climate change earlier this year.
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. doubts established scientific views
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Furthermore, public health records saw significant damage. In April, key scientists running the National Survey on Drug Use and Health were dismissed. Later, layoffs occurred at the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which monitors nationwide food security to guide aid allocation. The National Center for Health Statistics also faced cuts, significantly undermining its ability to track important metrics such as births, deaths, and maternal health. The National Death Index was also minimized, eliminating a vital resource for public health studies.
Health policy has become especially murky and devoid of evidence due to President Trump’s selection of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic, presided over more than 10,000 layoffs in government agencies and fueled conflict with public health authorities, leading to many resignations. He perpetuated the discredited notion that vaccines cause autism and even promoted the unfounded claim that Tylenol during pregnancy contributes to autism. In June, President Kennedy bypassed standard procedures to inform that the CDC would no longer endorse COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant individuals. His leadership has embedded the U.S. anti-vaccine movement within the government, damaging public trust in health institutions post-COVID-19.
Under Trump, the U.S. is also retreating from its leadership role in space exploration. Although the president’s budget request delivered in May hasn’t yet been enacted, it hints at a 47% cut to NASA that would stifle scientific progress and eliminate various missions, including ones already underway. For instance, samples collected from Mars by the Perseverance rover will not return to Earth, the Da Vinci probe intended to study Venus will not land, and the Osiris-Apex spacecraft will not gather data on an asteroid, vital for tracking potential threats to Earth. Additionally, NASA is experiencing leadership turmoil, with the U.S. Secretary of Transportation unsuccessfully attempting to manage it, compounded by President Trump’s inconsistent support for his nomination of billionaire Jared Isaacman.
The private sector is also gaining influence amid the Trump administration’s policies. Major tech companies are attempting to forge closer ties with the administration, showcasing their executives at various functions and providing lavish gifts during Trump’s inauguration. They may be looking to gain favor, as evidenced by a new $300 million ballroom in the White House. Their motives could involve seeking exemptions from antitrust regulations or simply reaping the benefits of relaxed environmental standards, while also pushing for developing major data centers for AI projects.
Nearly a year into Trump’s second term, the outlook for scientific progress remains unclear, particularly since the 2026 federal budget is still pending Congressional approval. Even if all proposed cuts do not pass, the administration’s erratic and often antagonistic stance toward science and its practitioners could result in further turmoil, prompting more scientists to exit the U.S. and diminishing critical funding for research essential for public health and ecological sustainability. The demise of the Endless Frontier will reduce America’s global influence, with consequences likely to be felt for years, if not decades.
Unexplained radiation surrounding the Milky Way may hint at dark matter’s composition
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A mysterious glow detected in the outer regions of the Milky Way may provide the first clues about the nature of dark matter, yet astronomers caution that it’s premature to draw any definitive conclusions.
Dark matter is theorized to account for 85% of the universe’s total mass, but scientists have struggled to identify the particles constituting it.
Among the potential candidates for dark matter are weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs). These elusive particles are notoriously hard to detect as they seldom interact with normal matter but are believed to occasionally self-annihilate, creating bursts of high-energy radiation in the form of gamma rays.
If dark matter is uniformly distributed across the galaxy as indicated by its gravitational effects, and if it consists of WIMPs, we should observe gamma rays as these particles self-annihilate. For over a decade, astronomers have been investigating whether the anomalously high gamma-ray emissions from the galactic center could signal this phenomenon, yet conclusive evidence remains elusive.
Now, Tomonori Toya, a professor at the University of Tokyo, claims he may have detected such a signal emanating from the Milky Way’s outer halo, utilizing 15 years’ worth of observations from NASA’s Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope.
Toya devised a model predicting the expected gamma-ray radiation in this region based on established sources like stars, cosmic rays, and vast bubbles of radiation identified above and below the Milky Way. Upon subtracting this known radiation from the total observed by Fermi, he found a residual gamma-ray glow with an energy level around 20 gigaelectronvolts.
This specific gamma-ray energy strongly aligns with the theoretically anticipated emissions from WIMPs’ self-annihilation, according to Toya. Although he admits it is too early to assert that these gamma-ray spikes are definitively due to dark matter, he describes the findings as “the most promising candidate for radiation from dark matter known to date.”
“Though the research began with the aim of identifying dark matter signals, I initially felt skeptical—like winning the lottery. When I first observed what seemed to be a signal, I approached it with caution,” says Totoni. “However, after thoroughly checking everything and confirming its accuracy, I was filled with excitement.”
“This represents a significant result worthy of further investigation, but firm conclusions cannot be drawn at this stage,” states Francesca Karoly from the French National Center for Scientific Research in Annecy. Accurately modeling all gamma-ray sources in the Milky Way, aside from dark matter, is quite complex, and Totoni has yet to deeply validate her models.
Silvia Manconi of France’s Sorbonne University asserts that the results need additional scrutiny, and more robust models are essential to establish whether the signals are genuine. Additionally, gamma-ray signals from other sources, like dwarf galaxies, are still unobserved and require thorough explanation, she mentions.
Many alternative radiation sources, including radio waves and neutrinos, will also need analysis to ensure the gamma rays aren’t being attributed to something else, says Anthony Brown from Durham University, UK. “Analyzing from just one perspective isn’t sufficient,” he states. “Dark matter necessitates an abundance of high-quality data.”
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Meta and various tech firms that decline to enter into content agreements with Australian news organizations could face hefty multimillion-dollar penalties, as Labor’s proposed media bargaining initiative aims to link fines to the local revenues of major platforms.
New regulations will apply to large social media and search platforms generating at least $250 million in Australian revenue, regardless of whether they distribute news content, as per recent disclosures from Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino.
Labor has shown a slow response in formulating a news bargaining incentive plan due to apprehensions about potential backlash from US President Donald Trump regarding his approach to US-based platforms.
Initially announced in December 2024, the implementation date remains uncertain, pending a month-long public consultation by the government.
These new regulations are intended to compel payments from platforms which have chosen to withdraw from the news media bargaining framework established during Prime Minister Morrison’s administration, a structure that has enabled publishers like Guardian Australia to secure around 30 agreements valued at an estimated $200 million to $250 million annually.
The decline in advertising revenue has significantly affected major media operators like News Corp and Nine and Seven West Media, leading to layoffs and cost reductions, while digital giants such as Google and Facebook’s parent companies continue to enjoy substantial profits.
Meta, which owns platforms like Facebook and Instagram, has declined to enter into new contracts under the existing terms, whereas Google has willingly renewed some contracts with publishers, albeit at lower payment rates.
Tech firms can bypass existing arrangements by entirely removing news content from their platforms, a move made by Meta in Canada in 2023.
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Labor’s new incentive initiative aims to assist news publishers in obtaining funding even from platforms that have opted out of the news bargaining system and to support smaller publishers that depend heavily on digital platforms for content distribution.
A new discussion paper outlines that if a tech platform refuses to engage in a content agreement, it will be required to pay either a portion of the gross revenue produced in Australia or just the revenue stemming from digital advertising. This penalty would be enforced at the group level and would not extend to smaller subsidiary brands owned by larger corporations.
The Treasury has indicated support for a $250 million annual income threshold for this new framework and suggested that the government use the total group income generated in Australia as the primary benchmark for payments.
Preliminary analyses estimate the worth of existing agreements with publishers is approximately equivalent to 1.5% of the revenue generated by relevant platforms in Australia. The new fines could reach 2.25% of revenue to facilitate trading under existing laws. According to the proposed structure of the new incentives, a portion of eligible expenses might be utilized to decrease penalty amounts.
Companies will need to self-evaluate their liabilities under these regulations, but the legislation will depend on a broad definition of social media and search.
Despite not having a registered business account in Australia, Facebook’s Australian subsidiary announced in April that it generated $1.46 billion in revenue for the year ending December 31, an increase from $1.34 billion the previous year, despite declining advertising markets.
President Trump has previously threatened to impose significant trade tariffs on countries perceived to treat American firms unfairly. His former confidant and billionaire advisor, Elon Musk, is the owner of Platform X.
Nonetheless, Labor is proceeding with the introduction of new penalties following Anthony Albanese’s productive meeting at the White House last month.
Former chairman of the competition watchdog, Rod Sims, has expressed support for Labor’s proposed penalty system, stating that Google and Facebook are profiting from content created by Australian news organizations and that failing to bolster journalism would enable lower-quality sources to flourish.
Sims had previously estimated that commercial contracts established under these terms amounted to $1 billion over a four-year period.
The government will continue consultations regarding the incentive plan until December 19, after which it will finalize its strategy in 2026.
Algal Bloom Devastates Fish Populations in South Australia
Australian Associated Press/Alamy
A vast and lethal algal bloom has wreaked havoc in South Australia over the past eight months, impacting over 20,000 square kilometers of marine habitat. An estimated 1 million animals from more than 550 species have perished, significantly affecting human health as well.
Researchers have recently pinpointed the species responsible for this ecological calamity, cautioning that it represents a “new international threat with unpredictable outcomes.”
The alarming agent is a type of algae known as Karenia cristata. Previously, it was documented only in two locales near South Africa, where it resulted in fish die-offs in 1989 and the mid-1990s, as well as off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
The research team has also identified a novel toxin released by K. cristata, which belongs to a group of compounds called brevetoxins. These toxins can inflict neurological harm on marine creatures, damage fish gills, and lead to fatalities in various species, including sea dragons, great white sharks, and dolphins. Brevetoxins pose a risk to humans via inhalation or ingestion.
Team member Shona Murray, a professor at the University of Technology Sydney, expressed concern among international colleagues regarding the implications of a new toxin-producing species potentially appearing in their waters.
“We are aware that this algal bloom has the capacity to proliferate in other parts of the world,” she cautions. “Previously, we underestimated its ability to create extensive and destructive blooms that could persist for eight months.
“Now we have confirmation, and it’s evident that it’s already occurring in other global regions; thus, I consider it an international threat.”
Satellite Image from August 13: High Concentrations of Yellow-Green Chlorophyll Indicate Algal Blooms Along South Australia’s Coastline
ESA
Murray and her research team noted that nearly 850 instances of harmful marine algal blooms have been documented worldwide from 1985 to 2025, with the recent South Australian event considered “one of the most severe and widespread” ever recorded globally.
The researchers have yet to determine the reason for such a vast and lethal bloom. The rising frequency of harmful blooms globally has been linked to increasing ocean temperatures, and the outbreak coincided with a significant marine heatwave, where water temperatures soared up to 3 degrees Celsius above normal. Nevertheless, the unexpected expansion of the blooms occurred after May 2025 when ocean temperatures began to decline.
K. cristata researchers emphasize the urgent need to comprehend the triggers for the bloom, noting that, given the right circumstances, it could impact numerous countries.
Christopher Keneally from the University of Adelaide points out that the dominant Karenia species previously identified, Karenia mikimotoi, is not known for producing brevetoxins. “There are numerous uncertainties regarding how the specific toxins produced by this species influence humans,” he states.
He concurs that the discovery raises concerns about potential new threats arising beyond Australia. “Given this species’ wide global distribution, it’s likely already present in small quantities in various coastal areas worldwide,” he adds. “As nutrient levels rise in many urbanized coastal regions and sea surface temperatures escalate, we can rightly predict that a variety of bloom-forming organisms will become increasingly prevalent.”
Gliese 251 is an early red dwarf star, ranking as the 74th closest star system to our Sun.
An artistic interpretation of the Gliese 251 system. Featuring Gliese 251c (left), its host star (right), and the already discovered planet Gliese 251b (center). Image credit: Michael Marcheschi / m2design.
You can find Gliese 251 as a bright M dwarf star, located at a distance of 5.58 parsecs (18 light years) in the constellation of Gemini.
Also known as GJ 251, HD 265866, or Wolf 294, this star is believed to host at least two super-Earths, Gliese 251b and Gliese 251c.
Initially discovered in 2020, Gliese 251b has a mass of 3.85 Earth masses and completes an orbit in 14.2 days.
The newly identified exoplanet, Gliese 251c, boasts a mass of 3.84 times that of Earth and has an orbital period of 53.6 days.
“With so many exoplanets now known, discovering new ones may not seem significant,” remarked Paul Robertson, an astronomer at the University of California, Irvine.
“The exceptional aspect is that its host star is nearby, roughly 18 light-years distant. From a cosmic perspective, it’s essentially in our neighborhood.”
Gliese 251c was detected using the Habitable Zone Planet Finder (HPF), a state-of-the-art near-infrared spectrometer mounted on the Hobby-Eberly Telescope at McDonald Observatory in Texas.
This planetary signal was subsequently validated using the NEID spectrometer at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona.
Corey Beard, Data Scientist at Design West Technologies, states:
“While the discovery is statistically significant, we are still assessing the state of the planet due to instrument and methodological uncertainties.”
“Direct imaging of this candidate will rely on the next generation of telescopes and community investment.”
Given Gliese 251c’s closeness to Earth, it stands out as a prime candidate for future direct imaging studies utilizing the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT).
The TMT, with its large mirror, could potentially directly image dim exoplanets like Gliese 251c and verify the presence of water.
“TMT is anticipated to be the only telescope capable of capturing such details. These images will pertain to exoplanets,” Dr. Beard added.
“Such imaging isn’t feasible with smaller telescopes.”
The results from the research team were published in Astronomy Magazine.
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Corey Beard et al. 2025. Discovery of a nearby super-Earth candidate located in the habitable zone, suitable for direct imaging. A.J. 170, 279; doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ae0e20
Illustration of CAR T cell therapy targeting tumor cells
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CAR T cells, which are immune cells modified to attack cancer, have transformed blood cancer treatments, particularly for leukemia. However, they have struggled against solid tumors. Recently, “weaponized” CAR T cells have successfully eliminated large prostate tumors in mice, providing optimism for similar therapies in humans.
“The tumor is completely gone,” states Jun Ishihara from Imperial College London, marking a unique achievement in animal research.
Our immune system typically identifies and destroys many cancers early on. Cancer cells often display mutated proteins recognized by T cells, which seek to eliminate these threats using surface receptor proteins, functioning similarly to antibodies.
However, not every cancer incites an immune response. In the 1980s, scientists found a way to engineer T cells to target cancer more effectively by incorporating genes for chimeric antigen receptors, hence the term CAR T.
While CAR T cells have shown remarkable success in treating some blood cancers, they also carry significant risks. They are effective for some but not all patients, and ongoing enhancements are needed. The development of CRISPR gene editing facilitates further improvements to these therapies.
Despite advancements, CAR T therapies remain ineffective for most solid tumors due to two primary challenges: the vast heterogeneity of solid tumors—where not all cells present the same mutated proteins—and the tumors’ ability to evade immune responses by emitting “do not attack” signals.
Researchers have attempted to enhance CAR T cells by incorporating immune-boosting proteins like interleukin-12, but this has sometimes resulted in overwhelming immune responses that damage healthy tissues.
Ishihara and colleagues have pioneered a method to localize interleukin-12 specifically to tumors. By fusing interleukin-12 to a protein that binds collagen, which is prevalent in tumors, they engineered it to target the exposed collagen found in both wounds and tumors. “Tumors are rich in collagen and are dense because of it,” Ishihara noted.
The modified CAR T cells produce this fusion protein when they bind to the mutated proteins present in certain prostate cancers. Once released, the fusion protein attaches to the tumor’s collagen, effectively signaling the immune system to launch an attack.
Trial results were promising, as the treatment eradicated 80% of large prostate tumors in the test mice. Additionally, when exposed to cancer cells afterward, no new tumors formed, indicating a robust immune response from the CAR T cells.
Remarkably, this approach did not necessitate preconditioning. Usually, chemotherapy is given to create space for new CAR T cells by depleting existing immune cells, risking side effects such as infertility. “We were surprised that no chemotherapy was required,” says Ishihara. His team aspires to commence human clinical trials within the next two years.
“This is a promising avenue that warrants clinical testing,” stated Stephen Albelda from the University of Pennsylvania. He noted that numerous research groups are also exploring similar methods for tumor-targeted localization of interleukin-12, with encouraging results being reported.
Gene-edited pigs exhibit resistance to swine fever
Simon Lillico
By making a few genetic modifications, pigs can be rendered entirely resistant to swine fever, a significant issue for farmers globally. This gene editing could also confer resistance to related viruses in cattle and sheep.
The widespread adoption of gene-edited pigs resistant to swine fever is expected to enhance animal welfare, boost productivity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower retail prices. “This will foster sustainable livestock production and promote the well-being of pigs,” asserts Helen Crook from the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency.
Swine fever is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to symptoms ranging from fever to diarrhea and miscarriage, often resulting in significant pig mortality.
While the disease has been eliminated in many regions, it can resurface. For instance, in 1997, the Netherlands culled 6 million pigs to contain an outbreak, and Japan has faced ongoing challenges since 2018.
Typically, when outbreaks occur, livestock are protected using vaccines containing live, weakened virus strains, which is a complex and costly process. “Vaccination demands extensive coordination and oversight,” mentions Christine Tate-Burkard from the University of Edinburgh, UK.
Countries utilizing vaccinations face restrictions when exporting to disease-free areas. Interruptions in vaccination programs can also lead to outbreaks, as seen recently in the Philippines, explains Tate-Burkard.
Nevertheless, the classic swine fever virus has a vulnerability. The viral protein bundles formed from long chains of amino acids must be cleaved into functional pieces, relying on specific pig proteins for this process.
By altering a single amino acid in this pig protein, referred to as DNAJC14, it may be possible to obstruct this cleavage. Tait-Burkard and colleagues employed CRISPR gene editing to create pigs with this minor modification.
Subsequently, the team sent some of these pigs to a secure facility, where Crook’s group introduced the live swine virus intranasally. All typical pigs fell ill, while the gene-edited pigs showed no signs of infection. There were no symptoms, antibodies, nor detectable virus.
“These pigs demonstrated complete resistance to viral replication and remained healthy and content throughout the experiment,” states Crook.
This research was partially sponsored by Genus, a major international breeding company currently evaluating the commercialization of these pigs.
Genus has previously developed gene-edited pigs resistant to another significant disease, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome, which are already approved in the United States, Brazil, and other nations. The company awaits approvals in Mexico, Canada, and Japan—key export markets for the U.S.—before it can start selling semen to farmers.
When used to implement small changes that can naturally occur, gene editing often faces less stringent regulations compared to traditional genetic engineering. Japan has already sanctioned three types of gene-edited fish.
The UK is anticipated to begin approving gene-edited plants soon, although regulations for livestock are yet to be finalized. It is expected that these regulations will prioritize animal welfare.
The research team observed no adverse effects in the swine fever-resistant pigs, according to Simon Lillico and colleagues from the University of Edinburgh, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings.
He emphasizes that traditional breeding lacks such welfare considerations. “It would be beneficial to ensure a level playing field,” he remarks. “We are aware that some conventionally reared animals experience low welfare standards.”
A virus closely related to classical swine fever is responsible for causing bovine viral diarrhea in cattle and borderline disease in sheep. While these diseases are not lethal, they still impact welfare and productivity. The Edinburgh research team is presently examining whether modifications made to pigs will also benefit cattle and sheep.
A significant piece of what seems to be space debris has been found in a secluded area of the Australian desert, as confirmed by the nation’s space agency on Monday.
The burnt, smoldering object was located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, according to the Australian Space Agency. While its exact nature and origin remain unclear, officials suspect it is likely a decommissioned rocket component.
The Australian Space Agency stated, “The debris is probably a propellant tank or pressure vessel from a launch vehicle.” This was mentioned in a post on X.
Details regarding the size or weight of the object were not disclosed, but the agency is collaborating with local authorities and other space organizations to investigate and ascertain “the precise nature of the debris and its origin.”
NBC News reached out for additional information, but the agency did not respond immediately.
Workers from a nearby mine stumbled upon the object on Saturday along a remote access road. As reported by Sky News, local officials do not believe the debris poses any risk to public safety. NBC News has yet to verify these details independently. (Sky News is a division of Comcast, the parent organization of NBC News.)
Various government space agencies and private companies frequently incinerate malfunctioning rocket parts or satellites in the atmosphere as a method of disposal. However, some debris can withstand the intense conditions of reentry. Despite this, it’s relatively uncommon for space debris to land on land, and even rarer for it to fall in populated regions, given that much of Earth is ocean.
Recently, however, experts have voiced concerns regarding the escalating issue of space debris, particularly with the increase in orbital launches.
Last summer, a 90-pound piece of space debris was found on a hiking trail in North Carolina and was later identified as part of the service module of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule, which returned four astronauts to Earth from the International Space Station earlier that year.
In March 2024, a 1.6-pound metal fragment crashed through a home in Naples, Florida. Follow-up investigations determined that the debris originated from a cargo pallet that was released from the International Space Station to burn up in the atmosphere.
There are tens of thousands of pieces of space junk, along with millions of smaller fragments, cluttering Earth’s low orbit, the critical area where many telecommunications and GPS satellites operate. These objects can travel at speeds of up to 18,000 miles per hour, jeopardizing spacecraft functionality and endangering astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
Due to these concerns, experts have long cautioned against the overcrowding of space. NASA and other space agencies are investing in research and technology demonstrations aimed at cleaning up substantial amounts of debris in orbit.
The Australian Space Agency reiterated its commitment in a statement to the long-term sustainability of space activities, which includes debris mitigation, and continues to advocate for this issue on the international stage.
Members of Parliament have cautioned that if online misinformation is not effectively tackled, it is “just a matter of time” before viral content leads to a resurgence of violence in the summer of 2024.
Chi Onwurah, chair of the Commons science and technology select committee, expressed concern that ministers seem complacent regarding the threat, placing public safety in jeopardy.
The committee voiced its disappointment with the government’s reaction to a recent report indicating that the business models of social media companies are contributing to unrest following the Southport murders.
In response to the committee’s findings, the government dismissed proposals for legislation aimed at generative artificial intelligence platforms, maintaining that it would refrain from direct intervention in the online advertising sector, which MPs argued has fostered the creation of harmful content post-attack.
Onwurah noted that while the government concurs with most conclusions, it fell short of endorsing specific action recommendations.
Onwurah accused ministers of compromising public safety, stating: “The government must urgently address the gaps in the Online Safety Act (OSA); instead, it seems satisfied with the harm caused by the viral proliferation of legal but detrimental misinformation. Public safety is at stake, and it’s only a matter of time before we witness a repeat of the misinformation-driven riots of summer 2024.”
In their report titled ‘Social Media, Misinformation and Harmful Algorithms’, MPs indicated that inflammatory AI-generated images were shared on social media following the stabbing that resulted in the deaths of three children, warning that AI tools make it increasingly easier to produce hateful, harmful, or misleading content.
In a statement released by the commission on Friday, the government stated that no new legislation is necessary, insisting that AI-generated content already falls under the OSA, which regulates social media content. They argued that new legislation would hinder its implementation.
However, the committee highlighted Ofcom’s evidence, where officials from the communications regulator admitted that AI chatbots are not fully covered by the current legislation and that further consultation with the tech industry is essential.
The government also declined to take prompt action regarding the committee’s recommendation to establish a new entity aimed at addressing social media advertising systems that allow for the “monetization of harmful and misleading content,” such as misinformation surrounding the Southport murders.
In response, the government acknowledged concerns regarding the lack of transparency in the online advertising market and committed to ongoing reviews of industry regulations. They added that stakeholders in online advertising seek greater transparency and accountability, especially in safeguarding children from illegal ads and harmful products and services.
Addressing the commission’s request for additional research into how social media algorithms amplify harmful content, the government stated that Ofcom is “best positioned” to determine if an investigation should be conducted.
In correspondence with the committee, Ofcom indicated that it has begun working on a recommendation algorithm but acknowledged the necessity for further exploration across a broader spectrum of academic and research fields.
The government also dismissed the commission’s call for an annual report to Parliament concerning the current state of online misinformation, arguing that it could hinder efforts to curtail the spread of harmful online information.
The British government defines misinformation as the careless dissemination of false information, while disinformation refers to the intentional creation and distribution of false information intended to cause harm or disruption.
Onwurah highlighted concerns regarding AI and digital advertising as particularly troubling. “Specifically, the inaction on AI regulation and digital advertising is disappointing,” she stated.
“The committee remains unconvinced by the government’s assertion that the OSA adequately addresses generative AI, and this technology evolves so swiftly that additional efforts are critically needed to manage its impact on online misinformation.
“And how can we combat that without confronting the advertising-driven business models that incentivize social media companies to algorithmically amplify misinformation?”
“Governments might resort to utilizing digital identities in more intrusive manners than initially assured…”
Dakuku/Getty Images
My first ID card was a flimsy laminated driver’s license. In the U.S., it includes a photo, biometric data (like eye color and height), and date of birth. This spurred its increased use beyond just driving; bars began issuing “cards” to minors attempting to purchase alcohol, interpreting the data as proof of being 21, the legal drinking age. I must admit, it wasn’t until I turned 18 that I learned to use a pencil to edit my birth date to enjoy some cheap cocktails.
This tale may seem like a dull 20th-century anecdote, yet it holds significant relevance in today’s ongoing discussion about the implementation of digital identity cards in the UK and elsewhere. While the cards themselves may differ vastly, the core issue remains the same. Firstly, the use of ID cards tends to escalate over time, and secondly, they are exceedingly easy to compromise.
The British government isn’t the first to suggest that citizens should carry a compact ID application on their smartphones for accessing government and public services. Countries such as China, Singapore, India, and Estonia already mandate digital IDs. Advocates argue that digital IDs help reduce fraud, simplify travel and purchases, and verify identity without the need to carry multiple physical documents.
“This digital ID will enhance your security,” the government might claim. “You can use it for shopping, obtaining medical care, and better yet, it will prevent any confusion about your immigration status, sparing you from unjust detention.” Apologies for the specificity, but the point is clear: these cards are touted as solutions to non-issues (like carrying a health insurance card) or problems that can’t be resolved by merely having an ID (immigration is complex and multifaceted).
Returning to the topic of usage expansion. What transpires when authorities implement digital IDs on mobile devices to authenticate citizenship during job applications or for social services? Fundamentally, they reside alongside other apps which, in certain instances, can share data with them. Some of these applications access sensitive data, including bank information, medical schedules, personal messages, and photos.
As journalist Byron Tau observes in his brilliant book: control means. Many applications gather information about you, often without your awareness, such as your location, purchasing behaviors, and even details from other apps on your device. There are businesses focused on extracting this data from applications like dating services and selling it to third parties, including government entities.
“
Governments may begin using digital IDs in far more intrusive ways than originally intended. “
This practice is largely permissible in the U.S., albeit unsettling. The UK and Europe have regulations that curb rampant data sharing, yet the technology exists. The only shield you have against government ID applications monitoring your location via unrelated apps is the government itself—and that, too, may evolve. Regulations can shift. However, once you start using that digital ID for employment, entering bars, tipping, or taking public transport, it’s unlikely you would discard it.
Consider the potential of this creepiness: Governments may resort to using digital identities in much more invasive manners than initially promised. Conversely, the public might find it beneficial for so many tasks that they deem the trade-off worthwhile. If buying a candy bar is effortless without a credit card, who cares if the government tracks your daily whereabouts? That perspective holds until the government decides you’re the enemy.
And let’s not overlook the hacking angle. Even if governments refrain from spying using your digital ID, malicious actors might not. A hacker could exploit vulnerabilities to access your identity or harvest personal information through a compromised app. Security experts have warned the UK government regarding the threats posed by digital IDs, and even the notorious U.S. surveillance firm Palantir has backed away from support for digital IDs. As one of their executives recently put it, digital identity is:very controversial.
It’s crucial to recognize that concern shouldn’t center merely around identity theft. One must also consider the potential for location tracking, message monitoring, unauthorized bank access, and even phone tapping. Comparatively, a traditional ID card, while it can be lost or altered, only results in the loss of that card—not a comprehensive loss of other personal data.
Annalee’s Week
What I’ve Been Hearing
Our Ancestors were Messy, is a podcast exploring African American celebrity scandals from a century ago, drawn from the pages of black newspapers.
What I’m Reading
Thief’s PhilosophyWritten by Fran Wilde, this futuristic narrative involves a wealthy individual hiring a thief for entertainment at a party.
What I’m Working On
I’m delving into the history of “review bombing,” a phenomenon where media and products are inundated with one-star reviews driven by political motives.
Hydrogen levels in the atmosphere have surged by 60% since the pre-industrial era, underscoring the significant influence of fossil fuel use on the Earth’s atmospheric makeup. While hydrogen itself isn’t a greenhouse gas, it contributes to warming indirectly through its interactions with other substances.
The research findings stem from the first comprehensive long-term observations of atmospheric hydrogen, which are derived from ice core data collected in Greenland in 2024. “Ice core records are incredible,” notes Alex Archibald from Cambridge University.
Being a small and lightweight molecule, hydrogen tends to escape into the atmosphere easily, often leaking from the ice core before it is analyzed in the lab.
To tackle this issue, John Patterson from the University of California, Irvine, and his team examined the ice core samples right after extraction. “We took our equipment out onto the ice. As soon as we extracted the samples, we cleaned and sealed them in a melted chamber for analysis,” he explains.
This approach enabled the researchers to establish a long-term record of atmospheric hydrogen stretching back 1,100 years, marking a significant improvement over previous records that reached only 100 years, largely based on observational data and snowfall analyses. “It’s quite an impressive feat logistically. We’re excited to share these findings,” remarks David Stevenson from the University of Edinburgh, UK.
The study discovered that hydrogen concentrations have risen from roughly 280 parts per billion in the early 19th century to around 530 parts per billion today. According to Patterson, this is not surprising given the rapid increase in fossil fuel usage since the pre-industrial period—when fossil fuels or biomass burn, hydrogen is released as a by-product.
Patterson and his team merged data from ice core records with modeling efforts to illustrate the fluctuations in hydrogen levels over the millennium. “Our data reveals changes in atmospheric composition, but the reasons behind these changes remain unclear,” says Patterson. “We aim to utilize biogeochemical models to investigate these variations.”
Ice cores can reveal historical hydrogen levels in the atmosphere
John Patterson
For instance, evidence from ice cores indicates that atmospheric hydrogen levels dipped by 16% during the so-called Little Ice Age, a cold period from the 16th to the 19th century. The decrease in wildfire emissions during this time does not completely account for the notable drop in hydrogen concentrations, according to Patterson. “This suggests that natural hydrogen biogeochemistry is adapting to climate change in ways we still don’t fully comprehend. This unexpected finding could be significant for future scenarios, indicating that atmospheric hydrogen levels might be more sensitive to climate fluctuations than previously believed,” Patterson cautions.
In the atmosphere, hydrogen competes with methane and engages with hydroxyl radicals, which play a crucial role in eliminating methane from the atmosphere, a potent greenhouse gas. “As hydrogen levels rise, the amount of hydroxyl available to react with methane decreases,” explains Patterson, potentially enhancing methane’s warming effect. “Currently, hydrogen constitutes about half of the total in the atmosphere, contributing approximately 2% to the overall anthropogenic warming effect according to our best estimates.”
Gaining a deeper understanding of the hydrogen cycle is essential to assess whether the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuels, as a transition away from fossil fuels, might lead to unanticipated consequences. For instance, a sudden spike in atmospheric hydrogen could magnify the warming impact of methane. Methane emissions have consistently risen since 2007, influenced by fossil fuel production, agriculture, and warming that releases stored methane from wetlands and permafrost.
“Methane is a significant factor causing us to hesitate in endorsing a hydrogen economy, as it inevitably leads to hydrogen leaks into the atmosphere,” emphasizes Archibald. “If hydrogen escapes into the atmosphere, it worsens the methane issue.”
It might spark discussion over the cautious use of hydrogen, especially if renewable energy cannot sufficiently replace fossil fuels, according to Archibald. Nonetheless, Patterson and other experts highlight that the warming effects from increased hydrogen use are expected to be minimal compared to the considerable warming impact of fossil fuels. “We don’t want to discourage people from pursuing hydrogen energy, as it’s a much cleaner option than its fossil fuel counterparts,” emphasizes Patterson.
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