Innovative research on cyborg insects shows that swarms of remotely controlled cockroaches can survive underwater with the help of specially designed diving suits, potentially paving the way for exploration on Mars.
Hirotaka Sato and his team at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have successfully demonstrated that hissing cockroaches (Glomphadrina Portentosa) can be remotely controlled through electrical implants in their sensory organs. Their research in 2021 showcased the feasibility, while 2024 saw a breakthrough with a swarm of 20 cooperating insects.
The primary goal was to create biological robots with infrared sensors to assist in search and rescue operations following natural disasters. Cockroaches offer effective locomotion, built-in reflexes, and the potential for energy efficiency, making them ideal candidates for such tasks.
Despite their versatility, the researchers faced challenges with the insects’ ability to explore flooded environments, common during disasters. To overcome this, they developed an aquatic suit enabling underwater operations.
Cockroaches breathe through spiracles located in their abdomen and thorax. The team created a waterproof suit using 3D printed resin, safeguarding the abdominal spiracles from water. A small hose connects the suit to the thoracic spiracle, allowing oxygen absorption.
Instead of traditional scuba gear, the suit uses a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and manganese dioxide, producing oxygen through a chemical reaction that the cockroaches can utilize.
While wearing the suit, the cockroaches were capable of submerging up to 50 centimeters for three hours, demonstrating resilience and health after the experiment.
The suit enabled the cyborg insects to swim naturally, achieving a forward speed of 87.5 millimeters per second on land, and just slightly slower at 78.4 millimeters underwater.
Sato envisions that this technology could aid search and rescue missions and possibly one day be adapted for extraterrestrial environments where oxygen is scarce, such as Mars.
The research team plans to further test the cockroach suits under severe conditions found in space, including extreme temperatures, vacuum, and radiation. However, concerns regarding contamination with Earth-based microorganisms remain a hurdle for potential space missions.
According to Alan Winfield, a professor at the University of the West of England, the applications for underwater-cyborg bio-robots extend to environmental monitoring and other crucial tasks.
While small robots struggle with battery life, cockroaches can operate efficiently for extended periods without the need for refueling, highlighting the advantages of biological systems over mechanical ones.
Volcanologists dedicate their efforts to monitoring volcanoes, striving to predict potential eruptions accurately. The primary challenge lies in determining both the likelihood and exact timing of an eruption.
To tackle this issue, a team of researchers created an innovative early detection system designed to issue timely warnings about volcanic eruptions. Their key motivation was to improve upon previous warning systems, which often missed critical underground volcanic activities occurring just before an eruption.
Between 2014 and 2023, researchers carried out extensive tests to effectively identify transient low-frequency oscillations using a seismograph. The focus on these transient signals is crucial since they stem from earthquakes and other surface-related phenomena, which scientists utilize to predict volcanic eruptions. These include ground tilting caused by magma movement and volcanic gases. Scientists refer to these as “jerk” signals due to the sudden movements they represent.
The team conducted their experiments at Piton de la Fournaise, located on La Réunion Island off the southeast coast of Madagascar. They identified the jerk signal by analyzing short-term signals in existing experimental seismic data. During a live experiment, they detected a significant signal 8 kilometers (about 5 miles) from the volcano at the Rivière de l’Est seismic observatory. These signals indicated height changes on the surface as magma migrated, often appearing mere minutes to hours before an eruption.
Researchers measured the jerk signals in Newton meters per second, which reveals the velocity of physical changes occurring in or around the volcano. Alongside real-time experiments, they analyzed historical data to verify the accuracy of jerk signals and determine their occurrence just before eruptions.
To avoid false alarms, the research team distinguished between ocean tidal signals and transient jerk signals using advanced computational software. This step was necessary as ground-recording instruments are also sensitive to tidal movements.
The Jerk system issued its first automated warning in June 2014, alerting authorities an hour before the initial volcanic tremor, signaling that magma was nearing the surface. The last signal recorded in their study occurred on July 2, 2023, just 40 minutes prior to an eruption at a slow rate of 1.5 Newton meters per second. Throughout 2014 to 2023, jerk detections occurred anywhere from minutes to eight hours before an eruption.
To measure the reliability of the jerk signal, the team reviewed historical eruption records at Piton de la Fournaise. They established that for 24 eruptions between 1998 and 2010, jerk alarms would have activated 83% of the time. From 48 eruptions between 1998 and 2023, including those during real-time testing, approximately 42 jerk warnings would have been issued. Real-time analysis also revealed that the jerk signal’s accuracy has improved compared to eruptions from two decades ago.
While the research team successfully identified pre-eruption signals, they noted that data processing requires at least 10-15 minutes, sometimes leading to delayed alarms. They reported two instances of late warnings: one on June 11, 2019, and another on February 10, 2020. After a decade of monitoring jerk signals, the team evaluated alarm success rates for 22 out of 24 eruptions, achieving a positivity rate of 92%.
Prior to the introduction of jerk signals, many volcanologists struggled to predict the exact moment of an eruption. The research team concluded that, alongside traditional methods of detecting pre-eruption earthquakes, scientists can now effectively use jerk signals to alert authorities, thereby improving safety for communities living near volcanoes worldwide.
Producing solar power on demand is precisely what a US startup, Reflect Orbital, aims to achieve. They intend to utilize mirrors in orbit to redirect excess sunlight back to Earth.
The goal isn’t to make the entire planet sunnier; rather, it’s to extend the hours during which solar power plants can generate electricity each day.
The initial plan involves launching two satellites in 2026 to serve as a proof of concept. These satellites will be equipped with deployable mirrors measuring 18 m x 18 m (59 x 59 ft) and will orbit at a low Earth altitude of about 600 km (373 miles).
Each satellite can illuminate a 6 km (3.73 mile) diameter patch of the Earth’s surface, almost as bright as a full moon.
This illumination level may not be sufficient for solar power generation, but the plan is to deploy numerous satellites all oriented in the same direction, stacking their beams to achieve a total of 5,000 by 2030 and over 50,000 by 2035.
US startup Reflect Orbital proposes using mirrors in orbit to reflect excess sunlight back to Earth – Image credit: Robin Boyden
Under optimal conditions regarding mirror reflectance and precision, certain areas on the ground could experience brightness approaching that of dusk.
However, this isn’t a constant illumination; the mirrors travel at a speed of 7.5 km/s (4.66 mi/s), meaning they can only light up the same area for a few minutes at a time. This technology is mainly beneficial for solar power plants operating just after sunset or just before dawn, as dusk does not provide sufficient brightness.
In contrast, areas receiving adequate natural light will not require enhancement since the satellites may also be in darkness.
This indicates that the economics of this venture might be less viable compared to simply expanding solar power capacity and storage on the ground.
This article addresses the question by Samantha Barker of the University of Oxford: “Can we create sunlight on demand?”
If you have questions, please email us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out to us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Remember to include your name and location.
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Astronaut Mark Watney’s journey to grow potatoes on Mars in the film Martian may be fiction, but real-world astrobotanists like Jessica Atkin are making strides in the field. As NASA gears up to establish a sustainable lunar base through the Artemis II mission, the need for skilled individuals who can cultivate crops off Earth is becoming paramount.
Establishing a self-sufficient moon base poses challenges, including the requirement for colonists to harvest water from lunar ice and contend with the inhospitable lunar regolith. Atkin’s groundbreaking research, undertaken at Texas A&M University, demonstrates that chickpeas can sprout when lunar regolith is treated with a blend of organic materials and particular fungi. Her work recently earned her a significant NASA grant to advance research on lunar agriculture.
Atkin discussed her aspirations for a lunar greenhouse, the importance of her work, and what future astronauts can expect to eat on the moon.
Robin George Andrews: What motivated your interest in astrobotany?
Jessica Atkin: My passion for plants began in my childhood, specifically in my grandmother’s strawberry fields. Growing up on a ranch, I spent evenings pondering the possibilities of cultivating plants in space. My belief is that microbes could help us in the process of colonizing not just Earth but the Moon as well.
How did your military service shape your academic career?
My time in the military was a stepping stone to obtaining my college education without financial dependence on my family. I served as a police officer and trained the Iraqi police, experiences that taught me resilience and adaptability—qualities I now bring to my research.
Why grow crops in lunar regolith instead of transporting soil from Earth?
Transporting 1 pound to the Moon can cost around $100,000, making it impractical for sustaining long-term food growth. Instead, we’ll focus on leveraging hydroponics and other innovative methods, much like the systems used on the International Space Station (ISS).
What challenges does lunar regolith present for agriculture?
The structure of lunar regolith is detrimental to plant growth; its sharp, small particles can harm both plants and astronauts alike. Moreover, the chemical composition, while containing necessary nutrients, poses risks due to potentially toxic elements that can inhibit plant health.
Chickpea roots growing in simulated lunar regolith
Michael Miller/Texas A&M AgriLife
What progress has been made in lunar agriculture?
Research teams, such as those from the University of Florida, have shown that plants like thale watercress can grow in actual lunar regolith samples collected during the Apollo missions. My initial research overlooked the vital role of microbes in plant growth, and I felt compelled to explore their significance further.
Your work emphasizes the importance of fungi in lunar agriculture.
Understanding that fungi can aid plants in establishing themselves on land here on Earth, I wanted to investigate if a similar symbiotic relationship could help plants thrive in lunar regolith.
Why did you choose chickpeas as a candidate for lunar cultivation?
Chickpeas are often overlooked as crops, yet they are rich in protein and serve as a vital food source. Unlike typical crops like lettuce and tomatoes, chickpeas are resilient and capable of thriving in harsh conditions, making them ideal for lunar agriculture.
Before your NASA grant, you pioneered research in your home.
My living room transformed into a botanical lab, as I knew that exploring these experiments was crucial when few others were doing so.
Were you able to utilize real lunar regolith in your studies?
Full samples of lunar regolith are scarce and heavily guarded at NASA’s Johnson Space Center; thus, I utilized lunar simulants created from terrestrial volcanic rock to replicate the lunar environment effectively.
Jessica Atkin with chickpeas in simulated moon dust
Michael Miller/Texas A&M AgriLife
What is the current state of your lunar agriculture research?
Atkin’s ongoing studies focus on combining fungi with compost to ascertain the optimal amount of organic material that will successfully nourish plants and microbes in lunar regolith. Remarkably, chickpeas have shown rapid germination, hinting at a potential agricultural revolution on the Moon.
What obstacles do you foresee for future lunar vegetable gardens?
The elevated radiation levels on the Moon and its gravitational differences can significantly alter plant growth, making effective lighting and optimal watering strategies crucial. This will necessitate specially designed, isolated greenhouses to protect both astronauts and plants from lunar dust.
What is your vision for the future of astronaut diets?
I believe the diet of astronauts will increasingly rely on shelf-stable and packaged foods, with legumes like chickpeas providing essential nutrients. The future could even see the introduction of lunar-grown foods like space hummus!
What culinary delights do you envision in a lunar greenhouse?
I have a soft spot for fruits, particularly strawberries, which are currently undergoing tests for growth in space. NASA is exploring various crops, including strawberries in space.
How do you feel about being dubbed the Botanist of the Moon?
While it’s a niche title, I embrace it as an opportunity in a burgeoning field, especially as NASA’s Artemis program progresses. There will be high demand for specialized roles in space agriculture.
If given the opportunity, would you establish a lunar greenhouse?
Absolutely; it’s the realization of a lifelong dream! Being part of lunar exploration and agricultural innovation is something I would cherish deeply.
Reflecting on your early inspirations, what would your grandmother think of your journey?
Even though she’s no longer with us, I know she’d be immensely proud of my achievements. Her support always motivated me, and I hope to honor her legacy through my work in astrobotany.
A fang-like lower jaw protrudes from the mouth of a screwworm larva.
Scott Camazine/Alamy
While the extinction of certain species might be deemed controversial, in some cases, it could be beneficial. For example, eliminating malaria-carrying mosquitoes might improve global health.
Advancements in genetic technology, notably through gene drives, enable the deliberate alteration of species populations. These gene drives can rapidly disseminate harmful traits within populations, yet, currently, the technology’s application against malaria-carrying mosquitoes is limited. Researchers like Kevin Esvelt at MIT have pioneered CRISPR-based gene drives to target pests such as the screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax).
As Esvelt notes, “I bet on the New World screwworm fly, an insect even more detested than mosquitoes.” Screwworm flies are notorious for laying eggs in the wounds of mammals, leading to severe injury and even death for the host. Livestock farmers face significant challenges due to screwworm infestations.
Historically, screwworms thrived across the Americas but were eradicated in North and Central America during the 1960s, though they still pose a threat in parts of South America.
The removal of screwworms in North America hinged on the sterile insect technique. Since female screwworms mate only once, introducing sterile males into the wild can effectively curb population growth. However, this method is costly and hasn’t been employed in South America—genetic modification through gene drives might present a feasible alternative.
Understanding Gene Drives
Gene drives refer to mechanisms that skew inheritance rates. Typically, offspring inherit DNA from both parents, which may reduce the prevalence of harmful traits over time. A genetic drive can ensure that more than half of the offspring inherit a specific trait, even if that trait proves disadvantageous.
Through natural mating processes, the gene drive replicates itself, resulting in the propagation of specific traits within a population, which could lead to substantial declines in numbers.
For example, gene drives can be engineered to disrupt essential reproductive genes, potentially rendering populations infertile over time. This is superior to traditional sterile insect techniques, which require mass releases of sterilized insects.
Addressing Controversies
Though the application of gene drives toward eradicating malaria-carrying mosquitoes would be revolutionary, public resistance rooted in concerns surrounding genetic modification limits such initiatives. For instance, a gene drive project in Burkina Faso was recently halted due to opposition, illustrating the challenges faced in promoting genetic modification.
The debate around genetic modification often reflects broader societal views. It’s vital to recognize that genetic modification is already embedded in agriculture, and the focus should be on the applications rather than the technology itself.
Gene drives, while appearing alarming, are part of natural processes. Resistance to unfavorable traits is expected, yet innovative solutions can be developed to enhance their effectiveness.
Efforts to eliminate screwworms through gene drives are already underway, with projects initiated by institutions like the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INIA) in Uruguay and the Guardian Program by DARPA. While detailed information is scarce, the successful development of gene drives against mosquitoes indicates potential in targeting screwworms.
As Colossal Biosciences proposes to develop gene drives for screwworm eradication, their lack of experience raises concerns, emphasizing the significant knowledge and expertise needed in this field.
Critics often argue about the ecological consequences of eradicating certain species; however, with precedents in successful species removal, the potential benefits to human health should be carefully weighed against fears of ecological imbalance.
In summary, advancements in gene drive technology may pave the way for eradicating harmful pest populations and improving public health. The memory of screwworm infestations serves as a reminder of the urgent need for effective pest management strategies in the Americas.
Gene therapy aims to teach individuals how to synthesize anti-aging proteins, while remaining independent of a person’s genome.
Andrew Brooks/Image Source/Getty Images
An innovative injectable gene therapy promising to extend human lifespan is set to be available in several countries. However, it is important to note that this therapy has not undergone exhaustive clinical trials nor received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or equivalent regulatory bodies.
Developed by Minicircle, a biotech company based in Austin, Texas, this therapy aims to enhance the production of klotho, an anti-aging protein, within human cells. To avoid lengthy FDA clinical trials, Minicircle plans to offer this largely unproven therapy to individuals traveling to Honduras, the Bahamas, and Panama. Interested parties can join a waiting list on their website to access treatments projected to commence within six months.
Medical ethicists caution that bypassing regulations meant to ensure patient safety could be dangerous. “This mirrors Silicon Valley’s attitude of ‘move fast and break things,’ posing a real risk of harm,” asserts Christopher Rudge from the University of Sydney, Australia.
Named after a Greek goddess believed to weave the fabric of life, the effects of klotho were first noted in studies involving mice devoid of this protein, which experienced accelerated aging and premature death. Subsequently, genetically modified mice producing excess klotho showed a lifespan increase of up to 30%. Additionally, injections of klotho have shown promise in enhancing memory in older primates.
As people age, klotho levels decrease, prompting Minicircle and others to seek methods for replenishing these levels. Rudge warns that although there are studies indicating potential lifespan extension in mice, the effects on humans remain unverified. Furthermore, a case of a child with naturally high klotho levels highlighted potential health risks, including bone fragility and growth disorders, suggesting that excessive intake might be detrimental.
According to Minicircle, their “life-extending” gene therapy utilizes a mini circular DNA structure, known as MiniCircle DNA, which instructs cells on how to produce the klotho protein. Administered via injection into abdominal fat, it is absorbed by fat cells, promoting klotho production that then circulates throughout the body. This DNA remains outside the chromosomes and does not integrate into the genome, eventually being degraded and eliminated. The company’s projections suggest effects could last for up to a year.
Minicircle has estimated that its therapy will cost over $300,000, allowing a three-year window for FDA approval. As an alternative, the company conducted a “proof of concept” trial in late 2025 with 24 participants in the U.S., treated at an “international partner clinic.” Notably, a clinic in Honduras allows developers to work within a flexible regulatory framework, also present in Panama City and Paradise Island, Bahamas.
While results from the klotho trial remain undisclosed, the company has indicated plans to publish clinical trial data soon. The founder and CEO, Mac Davis, shared personal experiences with the therapy, reporting improved immune response and reduced food sensitivities, though he also encountered transient effects. Nonetheless, the company has not responded to inquiries regarding clinical results.
Critics like Gyngell describe the small-scale trial conducted without a control group as insufficient for validating safety and efficacy. “Continuous protein production might yield adverse effects over time,” he notes. Additionally, prior gene therapy trials, even under strict supervision, have led to serious complications, underscoring the need for meticulous regulatory oversight.
Currently, no other klotho-enhancing gene therapy has been examined in human subjects. Researchers, including Miguel Chillon from Spain’s Autonomous University of Barcelona, have been exploring alternative klotho therapies through animal studies, reporting a 20% lifespan increase in rats, albeit with significant side effects. Chillon’s team is now investigating a smaller version of klotho, which appears to exhibit fewer adverse reactions, and aims to conduct trials under established regulations.
Experts, including Alex John London from Carnegie Mellon University, stress that premature efforts by companies like Minicircle could have detrimental effects on the entire field. “If risky treatments result in harmful outcomes, it could undermine years of diligent search for safer solutions,” he warns.
Although drug development is notoriously expensive, London emphasizes that the intricacies of human biology require thorough testing. Unregulated therapies risk repeating past mistakes that regulations aim to guard against, reminding us of the importance of patient safety.
In 2022, Minicircle introduced another non-FDA approved gene therapy targeting muscle growth through increased protein levels of follistatin. Preliminary results from a trial with 43 participants aged 23 to 88 indicated an average lean muscle increase of 770 grams after three months. However, due to the absence of a control group, the implications remain unclear. Notably, tech entrepreneur Brian Johnson underwent follistatin gene therapy, claiming a 7% increase in muscle mass for a cost of approximately $25,000.
“Individuals must have a clear understanding of risks and benefits if they choose to participate in these pioneering treatments,” Gyngell concludes. “Currently, the uncertainties surrounding these gene therapies are significant enough to warrant caution.”
Researchers have achieved a breakthrough by creating the first functional nuclear clock, utilizing the vibrations of atomic nuclei for precise time measurement. This innovative technology, pursued for over two decades, has the potential to revolutionize timekeeping accuracy and enable explorations into new physics.
Current advanced atomic clocks primarily rely on electrons to track time. Electrons inhabit specific energy levels around an atom’s nucleus and transition between these levels when exposed to certain light frequencies. The frequency of light determines how time is measured, similar to the ticking of a traditional clock.
Nuclear clocks, however, can harness the higher energy levels of atomic nuclei themselves. Theoretically, they promise greater precision than current electron-based systems. Such high-energy transitions could allow for timekeeping over billions of years, providing physicists tools to investigate exceptional new phenomena.
Yet, a significant hurdle remains: most atomic nuclei require energy levels beyond what current lasers can offer for excitation. However, thorium has emerged as a promising candidate, as it can be stimulated with relatively low energy levels. This focus shifted to thorium became evident following the discovery of targeted laser frequencies for nuclear excitation in 2023.
Researchers, including Torsten Schumm from the Vienna University of Technology, have successfully developed a nuclear clock using thorium, which holds potential in the quest for dark matter particles. Schumm states, “This represents the culmination of 15 to 20 years of intense research. It’s astounding to see a dream realized.”
Previous attempts confirmed thorium’s nuclear frequencies could be excited effectively, but they lacked an efficient frequency adjustment mechanism. “If there’s ever been a defining moment, this must be it,” asserts Harry Morgan from the University of Manchester.
The nuclear clock was engineered by embedding thorium in a calcium fluoride crystal and exposing it to an ultraviolet laser. Acting as the clock’s hands, the laser toggles between two frequencies surrounding thorium’s nuclear energy frequency. Equal absorption at both frequencies indicates proper tuning. If the frequencies differ, feedback is employed to adjust the laser frequency for optimal accuracy.
While this nuclear clock does not yet exhibit the stability of leading atomic clocks—losing several seconds every billion years—Schumm and his team view it as a proof of concept, with refinements pending. “For such a basic prototype, we were pleased with its surprising stability,” comments team member Ekkehard Peik from the PTB, German National Metrology Institute.
Even in its current state, nuclear clocks can perform functions unattainable by atomic clocks, as atomic nuclei are generally shielded from the chaotic electromagnetic influences of surrounding electrons. This allows for more accurate measurements of fundamental physical properties since nucleons can transition with minimal external noise. Additionally, nuclear clocks operate at room temperature, eliminating the need for extreme cooling techniques or vacuum conditions.
Moreover, the simplicity of the design could facilitate miniaturization, broadening the range of potential applications, including satellite tests of relativity. “Though we have not reached the leading-edge performance, significant improvements are anticipated shortly,” indicates Eric Hudson from UCLA.
By leveraging high-energy transitions in thorium nuclei, researchers aim to exclude dark matter particle influences. If dark matter interacts with ordinary matter like electromagnetic forces, it would subtly alter the nuclear energy transitions observed in thorium. This alteration could potentially uncover measurable changes in the clock’s frequency, paving the way for deeper insights into the universe.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a groundbreaking class of “cat states”—quantum superpositions created from unique, non-classical elements instead of traditional wave packets. This advancement paves the way for more robust quantum computers.
Quantum mechanics challenges classical intuitions, most famously showcased in Schrödinger’s cat, where systems exist in a superposition of states. Superpositions are critical for advancing quantum technology. Quantum “cat” states have been previously realized in harmonic oscillators, predominantly limited to Fock, displacement, or Gottsman-Kitaev-Preskill states. A different type of macroscopic superposition, where the oscillator is squeezed along orthogonal axes, had been suggested but never achieved. Zahner et al. introduced a trapped ion hybrid spin oscillator system that enables the experimental realization of these ‘brothers’ to Schrödinger’s cat. Image credit: Saner et al., doi: 10.1103/k1xk-yt42.
“Unlike classical physics, quantum mechanics permits objects to exist in multiple states simultaneously,” stated Dr. Sebastian Zahner of the University of Oxford and his research team.
“This concept is famously embodied in Schrödinger’s cat, which is imagined to be both alive and dead until observation occurs.”
“In experimental settings, physicists can create a less dramatic but highly realistic version of this phenomenon by placing atoms, light, or motion in two different quantum states simultaneously.”
“Manipulating these superpositions is vital for applications ranging from quantum computing to precise timekeeping.”
“A quintessential example is a quantum bit, or qubit, which represents a superposition of both 0 and 1. However, quantum systems can exhibit more than merely two states.”
“Quantum harmonic oscillators, which can occupy several distinct energy levels, provide even richer possibilities.”
“These quantum harmonic oscillators describe a variety of physical systems, such as light, vibrations, and confined particle motion, while creating diverse quantum superpositions.”
“A notable instance is the cat state, where an oscillator exists in a superposition of two wave packets positioned in opposite directions.”
In their latest study, Dr. Zaner and colleagues presented a novel family of quantum superpositions.
Rather than constructing cat-like states from traditional wave packets, they devised a method to create superpositions using a broad array of components that are inherently non-classical.
For instance, in superposition of squeezed states, the quantum uncertainty is distributed differently within each component of the state.
“The experiment leveraged the motion of a single trapped ion,” the physicists reported.
“A trapped ion integrates two distinct types of quantum systems: its internal state functions like a qubit, while its motion acts as a quantum harmonic oscillator capable of inhabiting various motion states.”
“This provides a powerful platform for engineering quantum states beyond conventional qubits.”
To create these innovative states, researchers initially employed engineered interactions to entangle the ions’ internal states with different possible motion states.
Subsequent intermediate-circuit quantum measurements of internal states then projected the ion’s motion onto a particular superposition of non-classical components.
“This method equips us with the instruments to fabricate quantum superpositions in nearly any configuration,” Dr. Sanner mentioned.
This technique allows researchers to precisely control the generated states.
By modifying the experimental arrangement, they could adjust the relative sizes, rotations, and separations of the components, enabling a diverse range of exotic motion superpositions within the same trapped ion system.
The scientists also directly reconstructed the quantum states they produced.
This reconstruction revealed interference patterns and regions demonstrating Wigner negativity, confirming that the state transcends a typical classical mixture.
These characteristics affirm that the experiment achieved a genuine quantum superposition of authentically non-classical states of motion.
The authors are now collaborating with theorists to determine the precise “quantum” nature of these states.
Dr. Raghavendra Srinivas, also from the University of Oxford, expressed, “I was genuinely heartened by my colleagues’ reactions when I presented our findings.”
“We believe we are merely scratching the surface of the potential applications and the deeper understanding of these conditions.”
The team’s research paper was published in this month’s edition of Physical Review X.
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S. Zaner et al. 2026. Generation of arbitrary superpositions of non-classical quantum harmonic oscillator states. Physical Review X 16, 021049; doi: 10.1103/k1xk-yt42
Daraxone Lasib: An Innovative Approach for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Treatment.
Credit: Reuters/Danielle Villasana
Daily administration of Daraxone Lasib has shown potential to double survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients, especially when conventional chemotherapy has ceased to be effective. This oral medication is associated with significantly fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy treatments.
“This represents a breakthrough in treatment,” states Pilar Acedo of University College London, who was not part of this research. “For years, the survival statistics of pancreatic cancer have been bleak. With this new treatment, patients can expect to spend twice as long enjoying life, with loved ones.”
About 70% of pancreatic cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, primarily due to irregular medical check-ups and ambiguous symptoms like back pain, leading to late-stage discovery. Conventional chemotherapy remains the standard approach; however, the average survival time for most patients is merely three to six months. Acedo noted, “This cancer is incredibly aggressive and challenging to manage.”
Over 90% of pancreatic cancers arise from mutations in the K-Ras gene, resulting in abnormal cell proliferation. This alteration in gene function has significant implications for cancer progression.
Eileen O’Reilly and her team from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York hypothesized that Daraxone Lasib, which targets the K-Ras protein, could suppress the signaling that fosters cancer cell growth.
The research involved 500 patients suffering from metastatic pancreatic cancer across the United States, Europe, and Asia who had previously shown no response to initial chemotherapy. Participants were divided into two groups: one receiving daily Daraxone Lasib, while the other continued with standard chemotherapy infusions.
During the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting on May 31, researchers revealed that those taking Daraxone Lasib experienced an average survival of 13.2 months, compared to 6.7 months for those undergoing traditional chemotherapy. “This is fantastic news,” Acedo remarked, emphasizing the treatment’s historical significance in enhancing survival outcomes for advanced pancreatic cancer patients.
Furthermore, only 1% of patients in the Daraxone Lasib group discontinued the drug due to side effects, such as mild rashes, in contrast to 11% of chemotherapy patients who stopped due to fatigue and other adverse effects. “The simplicity of taking a daily pill is a significant advantage over the invasive nature of chemotherapy, which requires frequent hospital visits,” Acedo concluded.
O’Reilly indicated that their findings have been submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and they are optimistic about an approval for Daraxone Lasib for metastatic pancreatic cancer patients who have already received chemotherapy in the near future.
Nonetheless, Acedo warns, “While a few additional months of life would indeed be beneficial, we are still investigating the long-term outcomes.” Future studies may explore the potential advantages of combining Daraxone Lasib with other innovative therapies or chemotherapy regimens.
O’Reilly’s team is actively pursuing this line of research in ongoing clinical trials, as well as evaluating whether Daraxone Lasib could serve as an effective first-line treatment for previously untreated patients.
Scanning Electron Micrograph of Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Anne Weston, EM STP, Francis Crick Institute/Science Photo Library
In a groundbreaking clinical trial in the United States, researchers have found that a novel viral treatment halted the progression of pancreatic cancer in three patients. While further assessments in larger trials are necessary, these early results are promising, particularly given that only minimal quantities of the virus were administered during initial safety tests.
According to Masato Yamamoto, who spearheaded the research at the University of Minnesota, “The efficacy exceeded our expectations, particularly considering we injected merely one-tenth of the targeted dose for pancreatic cancer.”
Pancreatic cancer is notoriously known as one of the deadliest cancers. This is due in part to the fact that symptoms often emerge late, when the cancer has typically advanced beyond the point of surgical removal. For patients diagnosed with this illness, the prognosis is grim: they usually survive for only about 3 to 6 months.
The stiffness of pancreatic tumors presents another significant challenge, inhibiting chemotherapy drugs from penetrating effectively. As Dr. Yamamoto aptly notes, “Pancreatic tumors are as hard as a hockey puck.” Additionally, these tumors can evade detection by the immune system, rendering immunotherapy treatments that boost immune activity against cancer cells largely ineffective.
One of the trial participants had a pancreatic tumor measuring 7 centimeters in diameter and underwent treatment about a year ago, with the other two patients treated subsequently. Fortunately, their tumors have not grown since treatment began. “They are all alive and exhibit clinically stable disease,” Dr. Yamamoto shared at the Annual Meeting of the American Society for Gene and Cell Therapy held earlier this month in Boston, Massachusetts. An additional 15 patients are now set to receive higher doses to determine the optimal treatment level.
Dr. Kai Brown, a pancreatic surgeon at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney, cautioned, “While this shows intriguing early promise, we must maintain a cautious optimism. The history of oncology is riddled with initially encouraging signals that have vanished by the time rigorous phase III [late-stage] testing was completed. Thus, these initial results ought to be viewed as hypothesis-generating.” Notably, the trial currently lacks a control group, making it difficult to ascertain if the cancer-killing virus is more effective than existing treatments.
The virus being tested is a genetically modified adenovirus designed to proliferate specifically within tumors while avoiding healthy tissues. Its replication is activated by cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), an enzyme found in much higher levels in cancer cells than in normal cells. Upon infecting cancer cells, the virus can rupture and lead to their death, thereby releasing more virus to infect adjacent cancer cells.
During this trial, the virus was injected directly into the tumor via a thin tube guided down the patient’s throat, reaching the pancreas. An ultrasound probe at the tube’s end assisted in visualizing the tumor’s location.
Dr. Yamamoto speculated that the tumor’s growth has halted without regression likely due to the low treatment dosage. He believes that as the virus replicates, the number of infected tumor cells may diminish over time.
As tumor cells begin to break apart, the immune system may identify the cancer and initiate its attack. “The patient’s immune system may recognize that something is wrong and start targeting the tumor,” he explained. If successful, this treatment could potentially combat metastatic pancreatic cancer as well.
To enhance this innate immune response, Yamamoto and his team plan to combine viral therapies with immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors—drugs that block proteins preventing the immune system from attacking cancer cells—in future clinical studies.
Historically, adenoviruses have caused cold and flu-like symptoms in their unmodified form, but they have shown promise as cancer treatments. In the 1950s, for example, women with cervical cancer were treated with unmodified adenovirus, witnessing some success in clinical trials. However, safety and efficacy issues highlighted the need for genetic engineering to tailor adenoviruses to specifically target cancer cells.
The only FDA-approved cancer-killing virus, T-VEC, is a genetically modified herpes simplex virus injected directly into melanoma tumors, inducing cell rupture and death.
OpenAI is one of the companies testing how well its technology performs on mathematical tests
Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
In an unprecedented trend, mathematicians are becoming highly sought after by the world’s wealthiest individuals. Across universities globally, many academics observe colleagues leaving their positions for lucrative opportunities in private companies, ranging from renowned entities like OpenAI and Google to newly established startups looking to leverage mathematics as a key tool in enhancing artificial intelligence.
“Last May, I questioned my scientific identity,” says Ken Ono, who took a leave from his professorship at the University of Virginia in 2025 to join Axiom Math, a startup focusing on integrating mathematics with AI technology.
Ono was previously recruited by Epoch AI to develop challenging math problems to assess AI’s problem-solving prowess. However, testing these AIs revealed their unexpected capabilities. “I felt like peasants witnessing the advent of combustion engines, realizing the potential of these technologies,” Ono reflects.
This sentiment is shared by many, as Axiom Math is one of several startups formed in recent years aiming to create AI systems capable of performing mathematical tasks and validating their solutions. In April, I explored these companies in California’s Silicon Valley to uncover their confidence in mathematics as a guide towards a future dominated by AI.
Axiom Math’s offices are located in Palo Alto, near Stanford University. Its founder, Karina Hong, a former student of Mr. Ono, shares the space with another startup, Harmonic, which aims to develop a “mathematical superintelligence” delivering verifiable results. Though both startups operate from unremarkable buildings, they have attracted hundreds of millions in investments to achieve their ambitious objectives.
In this simple office, named after notable mathematicians like Carl Friedrich Gauss and Ada Lovelace, I asked Ono why startups like his are necessary amidst established giants like OpenAI and Google.
“ChatGPT functions as a librarian. It can’t provide information that hasn’t been inputted. Would you trust a librarian as a brain surgeon?” Ono states. He emphasized that despite the success of massive language models like ChatGPT, their accuracy requires human oversight, highlighting an opportunity for mathematical validation.
Mathematical verification is not a novel concept. Over the decades, mathematicians have developed robust systems for verifying that proofs are correct. One of the leading systems is the programming language Lean, which allows researchers to convert handwritten proofs into a format for instant digital verification, saving immense time in the research process.
The Challenge of Verification
Similar issues arise in the realm of computer programming. Large language models can generate extensive amounts of code, often riddled with subtle errors, causing human programmers to spend considerable time correcting AI outputs.
This challenge is precisely what Axiom Math and Harmonic are targeting for revenue generation, especially as there is limited funding available for solving intricate math problems. Just like Lean allows verification of mathematical proofs, software can also be mathematically validated as accurate and free of bugs. “As AI increasingly writes code, the need for verification grows—humans become the bottleneck,” explains Harmonic CEO Tudor Achim.
While software verification stands as a primary revenue stream for these startups, they also possess AI tools adept at solving mathematical problems in active research areas. Axiom Math has successfully facilitated five papers, entirely crafted using its AI tools, published in mathematical journals. Although Ono refrained from discussing specific future projects, he expressed ambitions to produce dozens of papers by the following year, condensing years of labor into mere weeks.
Given the stiff competition, particularly from tech giants increasingly directing resources toward AI in mathematics, a sense of urgency exists within these startups. “Mathematics is ideal for developing AI due to its measurable nature,” states OpenAI’s lead scientist, Jakub Pachocchi. “Initially, language models struggled with quantifiable tasks, but they’ve significantly improved.”
Modern AI capabilities have progressed impressively since large-scale language models fought to tackle even simple mathematical challenges, culminating in significant achievements such as winning gold at the International Mathematics Olympiad and refuting an 80-year-old prediction that many believed would remain unchallenged in their lifetimes.
“Six months ago, we could easily identify weaknesses,” says Sebastian Bubeck from OpenAI. “Previously naive fields of mathematics now showcase improved AI competence.”
Unlike startups like Axiom Math and Harmonic that specifically hire mathematicians to guide AI’s mathematical proficiency, Bubeck emphasizes that OpenAI’s focus remains on developing general intelligence, indirectly benefiting mathematical capabilities. “We’re enhancing overall AI capacity, leading to unexpected advancements in mathematics,” says Bubeck.
Across the field, uncertainties loom. Mathematicians fear that the future may become monopolized by a select few well-funded tech corporations. This sudden surge of interest could dissipate as quickly as it rose.
“The current investment influx is exorbitant, and we’ll certainly miss it once it wanes,” says Rabbi Bakir from Stanford University. “AI models are evolving toward superior mathematical reasoning, but this will be a temporary phenomenon; challenges like the Riemann hypothesis won’t benefit much over time.”
Possible Futures in Mathematics
There is a looming concern that mathematics could become a paywalled realm, with access to solutions contingent on adequate funding or the appropriate AI models. Currently, many of Axiom Math’s resources are available for free, though the company has not dismissed the potential for future costs.
“Certain fields of math are already behind paywalls,” mentions Shubo Sengupta, discussing axiomatic mathematics. “[Hedge funds] leverage mathematical models that remain inaccessible to others due to proprietary concerns, as this is how they generate profit.”
Nonetheless, Sengupta insists, “We must remain committed to expanding the boundaries of mathematical knowledge.”
Achim of Harmonic echoes this sentiment. “While tools that aid mathematicians come at a cost, we remain dedicated to supporting mathematicians in meaningful ways. It’s imperative for us that mathematics is prioritized in the tech landscape.”
As predicting the future is fraught with difficulty—especially amidst AI’s rapid evolution—mathematicians will likely retain a central role in this journey. Upon my departure from Axiom, Ono drew a parallel to the emergence of math-driven AI systems akin to the arrival of Srinivasa Ramanujan, a self-educated mathematician whose intuitive insights revolutionized the mathematical landscape in the early 20th century.
Ono’s father, a Japanese mathematician inspired by Ramanujan, had passed away earlier this year. Ono reminisces about their final conversation: “Maybe we are witnessing a Ramanujan-like moment. People may not yet grasp its importance. But when you see a computer producing something extraordinary, it’s essential to embrace it, as it’s already happening around us.”
Pendulum Clocks: Pioneering Accuracy in Timekeeping
Panumas Nikhomkhai / Alamy
The pioneering design of a quantum grand clock integrates a single atom, a micro mirror, and light. This innovative architecture seeks to enhance our comprehension of timekeeping in the quantum realm and delve into avant-garde physics concepts.
At its core, time can be measured using simple methods like sand falling in an hourglass. However, the emergence of mechanical timepieces such as grand clocks and pendulum clocks in the 17th century revolutionized accuracy in timekeeping. Researchers at Collège de France have now unveiled the quantum equivalent of these timepieces.
“We questioned if pendulum clocks conform to the principles of quantum mechanics,” explains Matteo Brunelli, one of the lead researchers.
A pendulum clock comprises three essential components: the pendulum, which regulates the ticking; a weight using gravity’s pull to swing the pendulum; and an “escapement mechanism,” which transforms the pendulum’s motion into clock arm movement while also supplying energy to counteract friction-related slowdown. For consistent oscillation, the escapement must manage the vertical movement of the weight precisely.
The research team has created a mathematical model that replicates these clock characteristics within quantum systems. Their quantum clock design showcases a cavity between two mirrors—one stationary and the other oscillating. Within this cavity, atoms exist at three distinct energy levels. Minor temperature variations spark atomic transitions, some resulting in photon emissions. These photons bounce between the mirrors, triggering vibrations akin to a pendulum’s motion.
The atom in this setup functions as the escapement mechanism, cycling through energy levels to maintain a tick-tock rhythm. Brunelli comments that this represents the most minimal form of an escapement mechanism. Mathematical evaluations indicated that proper tuning would allow the quantum clock to achieve a stable and consistent ticking, paralleling a pendulum clock’s functionality.
Unlike the premier atomic clocks that require laser precision for control, this new clock is envisioned to operate autonomously as a self-sufficient thermodynamic device. While prior designs of autonomous quantum clocks existed, their precision suffered due to inadequate escapement mechanisms for maintaining uniform oscillation.
Notably, this new clock overcomes the “thermodynamic uncertainty relation,” a barrier that previously impaired many autonomous clocks. Its accuracy is now linked to the energy required for backward movement, thus demonstrating a significant advantage in timekeeping.
Sreenath Manikandan from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Hyderabad emphasizes that comprehending autonomous clocks is essential for efficient time management. As these clocks do not rely on external sources for accuracy, they provide insight into fundamental processes. Enhanced knowledge of quantum clocks at a basic level could further unravel new physics phenomena, including gravitational interactions in the quantum framework. “A deeper understanding of clock mechanisms is critical, and our research marks a notable advancement in this direction,” states Manikandan.
Experiments with diminutive cavities and photons are prevalent, suggesting that the necessary materials for constructing these clocks are readily available in labs. Yet, Brunelli acknowledges that the groundbreaking escapement mechanism presents significant technical challenges. “While it is complex, it remains feasible,” he asserts.
A groundbreaking synthetic process has successfully engineered bacteria to produce Gadusol, a natural compound that protects transparent fish eggs from harmful sunlight. This innovation brings us closer to creating a sustainable sunscreen alternative for humans, which is more environmentally friendly.
Naturally found in species like zebrafish, salmon, and sturgeon eggs, as well as in coral, Gadusol offers vital protection against UV damage. Its limited availability from natural sources makes it impractical for widespread use as a sunscreen.
A team led by Jiang Ping at Jiangnan University in China successfully inserted zebrafish genes into Escherichia coli to provide the necessary enzymes for Gadusol synthesis. The research team enhanced Gadusol production by using small RNA molecules and optimizing growth conditions, achieving an impressive nearly 93-fold increase—from 45.2 mg to 4.2 grams per liter of culture medium.
Initial experiments indicate that Gadusol possesses antioxidant properties comparable to vitamin C, potentially neutralizing harmful free radicals that damage cells. However, researchers from New Scientist did not respond to interview requests regarding further details.
Unlike melanin, Gadusol is transparent, effectively blocking UV rays while allowing for stealth in organisms. James Gagnon from the University of Utah, a key contributor to the research, noted, “I don’t think we necessarily get the credit we deserve. This is an amazing molecule.” Gagnon emphasized the need for further studies but mentioned that Gadusol is likely safe for humans and the environment since many animals already utilize it. Its transparency avoids the milky residue left by conventional sunscreens.
“Everyone is hinting this could be a great sunscreen for humans,” Gagnon explains. “However, two hurdles remain before Gadusol can be commercialized: developing a cost-effective manufacturing method and finding chemical combinations that provide long-lasting formulations.”
“While Gadusol may be the active ingredient, future sunscreen products will involve a variety of components to ensure Gadusol adheres to the skin and resists washing away,” Gagnon states. “There is still significant work to be done in materials science.”
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Recent advancements in interstellar travel technology have brought us closer to utilizing light sails—massive sheets that harness reflected light to journey vast distances in space. Researchers have now developed a method to effectively pilot these innovative sails.
Kaushik Kudalkar from Texas A&M University comments, “We understood that any light or laser could transmit momentum, but our breakthrough allows for directional control.” His team has designed a compact device called the “metajet,” leveraging both refraction and reflection to enable motion in multiple directions simultaneously.
The metajet is crafted from a metasurface, a thin, textured material engineered to manipulate light. In this project, researchers inverted traditional applications by using light to influence the metasurface. A series of small pillars embedded in the material modulate the light intensity and momentum, controlling the device’s movement. The overall diameter of the metajet is approximately 0.01mm.
In experimental trials, the researchers submerged a silicon metajet in water and illuminated it with a laser, observing its movements through a microscope. Remarkably, the metajet managed to levitate and propel itself horizontally, achieving speeds of around 0.07 millimeters per second.
Metajet in Motion: Captured Every 10 Seconds
Kaushik Kudtarkar et al. 2026
Kudalkar emphasizes, “Now that we understand the forces acting on this device, we can redesign the metasurface for increased control.” They envision metasurfaces capable of changing shape dynamically, paving the way for advanced light sails in space exploration.
These technologies have implications beyond space; they can also be adapted for biomedical applications, such as directing drugs to specific sites. Kudalkar states, “While lasers can push drugs, they risk damaging sensitive molecules due to heat. With MetaJet, drugs can be delivered without exposure to harmful heat from the laser.”
The research team is exploring compatibility with various light wavelengths, particularly broad-spectrum sunlight, to enhance the effectiveness of light sails in space travel. “This pushes the boundaries of science fiction,” says Kudalkar.
A Coin-Sized Device for Measuring Flatulence in Smart Underwear
Brantley Hall, University of Maryland
Research reveals that most people are unaware of their flatulence frequency. However, innovative smart underwear can accurately monitor this, assisting in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal issues like lactose intolerance.
Brantley Hall and his team from the University of Maryland have developed a compact hydrogen detection device that clips onto your underwear. “It’s approximately the size of a nickel and is attached near the perineum,” says Hall.
The research involved 37 participants who wore the device to track flatulence post-lactose ingestion. Many individuals remain unaware of their flatulence, especially those who are lactose intolerant, as their bodies lack the enzyme lactase to properly digest lactose, leading to fermentation by gut bacteria and subsequent gas production.
The team asked participants to follow a strict low-fiber diet for two days to establish a baseline before consuming 20 grams of either lactose or sucrose. There was a double-blind design, ensuring neither participants nor researchers knew what was ingested.
Results from the study indicated that 24 out of the 37 participants who consumed lactose exhibited a significant increase in flatulence—more than 1.5 times their baseline levels. Notably, in 22 of these individuals, higher gas production correlated with greater lactose intake.
Despite these findings, an additional study showed participants could only accurately identify their gasiest days about 50 percent of the time, akin to flipping a coin. “People aren’t reliable narrators of their flatulence patterns,” Hall added.
Hall plans to present the findings at Digestive Disease Week 2026 in Chicago, highlighting the device’s potential to help diagnose conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and evaluate treatment efficacy for excess gas production.
This non-invasive approach using smart underwear for measuring flatulence is promising, especially as technology acceptance grows. Tom Van Gils from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, noted the link between subjective feelings of bloating and objective measures, saying, “This could improve our understanding of physical changes involved in gastrointestinal disorders.”
A recent investigation by Hall et al. revealed that healthy adults experience between 4 to 59 farts daily, with an average of 32 farts per day.
“Our study may skew towards those who fart more frequently, so this number could reduce over time,” Hall commented. “We aim to establish baseline flatulence patterns in healthy individuals and assess common triggers.”
Happy 50th birthday, Apple! As we approach April 2026, let’s dive into some of the tech giant’s most iconic products, the challenges that shaped them, and what exciting innovations lie ahead.
Iconic Products
#1 Apple II
The Apple II, launched in 1977, was pivotal in transforming Apple from a budding startup to a technology powerhouse.
VisiCalc, the first mainstream spreadsheet application, launched on Apple II – Image credit: Getty Images
Unlike the DIY computer kits of its era, the Apple II arrived fully assembled, featuring color graphics and connectivity to home televisions.
Its success was fueled by software innovations, most notably VisiCalc, which became a staple in small and medium-sized businesses. This revenue surge financed Apple’s ascent during the 1980 stock market boom and paved the way for future innovations.
#2 Macintosh 128K
While the Apple II laid the foundation, the Macintosh 128K, introduced in 1984, fundamentally redefined user interaction with computers.
Its revolutionary graphical user interface replaced complex text commands with intuitive mouse control, catalyzing a desktop publishing revolution.
The Macintosh 128K played a pivotal role in shaping Apple’s identity – Image credit: Getty Images
Though sales were modest, the Macintosh solidified Apple’s reputation for sleek design and enhanced user experience, distinguishing it from IBM competitors.
#3 iMac G3
The iMac G3, designed by Jony Ive, revitalized Apple under Steve Jobs – Image courtesy of Getty Images
Launched in 1998, the iMac G3 emerged as Apple faced significant financial struggles. This all-in-one computer was instrumental in reviving the brand, featuring vibrant colors and innovative USB connectivity.
The controversial “hockey puck” mouse became iconic, and the iMac G3 solidified Apple’s reputation by merging functionality with modern design.
#4 iPod (1st Generation)
When the iPod debuted in 2001, it catapulted Apple into the musical spotlight, changing the way we consume music forever.
The iPod transformed music purchasing and listening habits – Image credit: Getty Images
With an intuitive scroll wheel and seamless integration with iTunes, the iPod outperformed its competitors, setting new music consumption standards and laying the groundwork for future mobile technologies.
#5 iPhone 3G
While the original iPhone marked Apple’s entry into smartphones, the iPhone 3G, released in 2008, truly revolutionized mobile technology.
With major upgrades including 3G connectivity and the introduction of the App Store, the iPhone 3G redefined mobile usability.
The iPhone 3G epitomized Apple’s vision for smartphones – Image courtesy of Alamy
Developers quickly flocked to create thousands of apps, skyrocketing sales and launching the modern smartphone era.
Notable Missteps
Apple III
In its rush to compete with IBM, Apple released the Apple III without comprehensive testing, leading to overheating and stability issues that tarnished the brand’s credibility.
Apple Pippin
Apple’s attempt to merge gaming with the Macintosh experience fell flat with the Pippin, unable to compete due to its high price and limited game library, selling only 42,000 units against a target of 500,000.
Apple Vision Pro
Despite its innovation, high costs have hampered the Vision Pro’s success – Image courtesy of Apple
The Vision Pro, featuring advanced optics and software, impressed critics but struggled with sales due to its steep price and limited practicality for the average consumer.
The Future of Apple
What lies ahead for Apple? Speculations abound regarding AI-driven smart glasses, smart home displays, and even proprietary security cameras. However, the most buzz surrounds the rumored “iPhone Fold,” possibly set for release this year.
The iPhone Fold aims to eliminate the creases that plague current foldable tech – Image credit: Getty Images
The anticipated “iPhone Fold” is expected to transition from a 5.5-inch display to an iPad mini-sized screen, a “book-style” foldable design.
While competitors like Google and Samsung have forayed into this territory, Apple’s history suggests that innovation often comes with its own timing.
However, this foldable device won’t come cheaply; reports suggest a price tag of around $2,500 (£1,900).
Extracting a patient’s plasma and removing certain proteins may enhance sepsis treatment outcomes.
Vital Hill/Shutterstock
Patients suffering from severe sepsis may soon benefit from innovative treatments that filter their blood to remove critical proteins underlying life-threatening responses. Promising results in animal studies set the stage for human trials scheduled for next year.
Sepsis occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection, causing severe damage to tissues and organs. It can escalate to septic shock, which leads to dangerously low blood pressure and further complications. In 2017, there were 49 million cases of sepsis worldwide. According to a meta-analysis involving patients in Europe, North America, and Australia, 32% of sepsis patients died within 90 days despite treatment for the initial infection and organ damage, while the mortality soared to 39% among those with septic shock.
Emerging therapies that target the root causes of this condition could halt the progression of sepsis. Isaac Elias from the Amitava Medical Clinic Healing Center in Santa Rosa, California, has dedicated decades to studying a protein called galectin-3. This protein has numerous functions in healthy individuals, including regulating cell life cycles and activating immune responses. Galectin-3 is believed to be implicated in various health conditions, with Elias stating, “Our research spans multiple areas, from autoimmunity to cancer.”
Curious about galectin-3’s potential role in sepsis, Elias noted that high levels of this protein correlate with an increased risk of death in sepsis patients. To explore this, Elias and his team developed a device that filters galectin-3 from the blood. The process involves withdrawing a sizable blood sample, separating the plasma in a centrifuge, and using a filter with antibodies to target and remove galectin-3. The purified plasma is then combined with the blood cells and reintroduced to the patient.
This innovative apheresis device is currently being tested by teams including Peng Zhiyong from Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University in China, applying a multifaceted approach.
Initially, they monitored 87 septic patients versus 27 healthy individuals, discovering elevated galectin-3 levels in the sepsis group. Subsequent assessments showed a decrease in galectin-3 levels among survivors.
The research team also utilized the hemofiltration device in two animal models of sepsis, starting with 48 rats that developed sepsis due to a large intestine puncture. Of these, 28 underwent galectin-3 hemofiltration, while the rest received a sham procedure. Remarkably, 57% of the treatment group survived, compared to just 25% in the control group.
Furthermore, the team applied galectin-3 apheresis to minipigs subjected to lipopolysaccharide, a bacterial component that induces a robust immune response and sepsis. All pigs received intensive care, with 16 undergoing galectin-3 apheresis and 15 getting sham apheresis. The treatment group demonstrated higher survival rates: 69% versus 27%.
“This is certainly innovative,” remarks Jirali Anand of Raymond Poincaré Hospital in Garches, France. “The results remain consistent across both animal models.” Nevertheless, he emphasizes the need for further research to uncover how galectin-3 contributes to sepsis before establishing a standardized treatment. Anand also anticipates replicating these results in independent studies and different animal species, including primates.
Elias’ company, Elias Therapeutics, is actively seeking funding to launch a randomized clinical trial of galectin-3 apheresis in humans, aimed for initiation in 2027.
Introducing a groundbreaking “agnostic biosignature” method that detects patterns across exoplanets, indicating the potential to identify extraterrestrial life through its impact on entire planetary systems.
Harrison B. Smith and Lana Sinapayen utilized agent-based models to propose that if life spreads among star systems and modifies planets’ observable features, it could yield strong life signatures with minimal false positives. Image credit: Sci.News.
The quest for extraterrestrial life remains one of the foremost challenges in modern science.
In addition to artificially recreating the origins of life on Earth, researchers focus on planets both within and beyond our solar system.
Realistically, only a handful of locations within our planetary system offer viable prospects for finding extraterrestrial life.
Beyond our solar system, the possibilities are vast, yet they come with challenges. This makes it difficult to accurately link exoplanet characteristics to the presence of extraterrestrial life.
Conventional spectral biosignatures are prone to false positives, while technosignatures, though more reliable, require strong assumptions about the nature of life and its technology.
“We explored an innovative concept: what if we could detect life not by examining individual planets but by observing collective effects across multiple planets?” explained Dr. Harrison Smith from the Tokyo Institute of Science and Dr. Lana Sinapayen from the National Institute for Basic Biology.
In their recent paper published in Astrophysical Journal, the authors present the “agnostic biosignature,” a novel method that does not rely on detailed knowledge of life forms or their functions.
This approach is built on two foundational assumptions: that life can spread between planets (e.g., through panspermia) and that it can alter planetary environments over time.
The researchers employed agent-based simulations to model the spread of life through star systems and its effect on planetary characteristics.
They discovered that longer-lived life forms, which influence planetary environments, yield detectable statistical correlations between planetary locations and observable features.
Notably, these correlations emerge without needing to identify the specific biosignatures of each planet.
Scientists have devised a method to not only detect the existence of life but also to discern which planets are most likely to harbor it.
By clustering planets based on observable traits and spatial relationships, they could identify groups of planets likely affected by life.
This strategy emphasizes reliability over completeness; even if a life-hosting planet is overlooked, false positives are minimized.
This method is particularly valuable for determining follow-up observations when telescope time is constrained.
“By concentrating on the dynamics of how life spreads and interacts with its environment, we can explore life without needing a perfect definition or a singular unmistakable signal,” Dr. Smith stated.
“Regardless of whether life elsewhere differs fundamentally from life on Earth, large-scale impacts such as planetary dispersal or modification can still create detectable traces, making this approach intriguing,” Dr. Sinapayen added.
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Harrison B. Smith and Lana Sinapien. 2026. Agnostic biosignatures based on panspermia and terraforming modeling. APJ 1001, 102; doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae4ee3
Quantum Batteries: Harnessing Energy by Reversing Time
Photo by Dakuku/Getty Images
Innovative methods designed to reverse time flow in quantum systems may pave the way for the next generation of quantum batteries.
Across the cosmos, we perceive events as unfolding in a singular direction, conforming to the apparent arrow of time. However, the fundamental principles governing our universe remain effective regardless of whether time advances forward or retreats backward.
Scientists have developed various theories to explain the apparent discord between the one-way arrow of time we observe and the permitted bidirectional flow dictated by physical laws. A prominent example is the second law of thermodynamics, which posits that systems naturally progress towards greater disorder, thereby favoring a forward time direction.
In quantum mechanics, the understanding of the arrow of time diverges. Just like classical laws, quantum processes can technically unfold in either direction. However, the forward direction is determined by comparing measurements of a quantum system against theoretical predictions regarding its temporal evolution. When these measurements align with specific statistical patterns, the system is interpreted as progressing forward in time.
Recently, Luis Pedro Garcia Pintos and his team at Los Alamos National Laboratory, New Mexico, have formulated a method to replicate this statistical characteristic. By reverse-engineering measurement-induced changes in a quantum system, they create an illusion that the quantum system is retreating in time.
“We apply field and control techniques to the system that allow us to undo the effects of measurements,” explains Garcia-Pintos. “If a measurement causes the system to elevate, we can counteract this by bringing it down, effectively creating a trajectory that aligns more with a backward time process.”
The researchers suggest the potential to manipulate the arrow of time in a qubit—an essential element of quantum computing—by measuring its properties, such as spin. Yet, this depends on the ability to continually measure qubits in a non-disruptive manner, enabling the calculation of the temporal direction through microwave pulse applications.
This technology holds the promise of enabling energy extraction from quantum systems requiring measurement, according to Garcia-Pintos. Such an advancement could significantly impact quantum batteries and miniature quantum engines, as each measurement introduces energy into the system.
By carefully adjusting the quantum arrow of time, this energy can be effectively redirected and harnessed for alternative applications. “Consequently, you derive energy from this process,” states Garcia-Pintos. “These measurements can serve as thermodynamic resources.”
As noted by Mauro Paternostro, it’s important to note that the proposed design is specialized and does not universally apply to all quantum systems.
Moreover, achieving order in a system necessitates an energy expenditure, ensuring compliance with the second law of thermodynamics. “When I enter my son’s room, chaos reigns—balls roll and clothes scatter. If I take the time to clean, the room becomes tidier, but this requires energy,” he remarks. “This is precisely what their external control mechanisms demonstrate.”
Diagram of CAR T Cells: Genetic Modification to Combat Autoimmune Diseases
Christoph Burgstedt/Science Photo Library
A woman suffering from three autoimmune diseases has found remarkable relief after undergoing CAR T cell therapy. Following genetic modification of her immune cells, she didn’t require treatment for nearly a year, thanks to these engineered cells effectively targeting and eliminating rogue cells in her body. “When we first met, she was bedridden and at death’s door. After treatment, she was out of bed within seven days,” stated Fabian Muller from Erlangen University Hospital, Germany. Remarkably, she made a full recovery within months, and an 11-month post-treatment check confirmed her continued good health.
This case represents the growing potential of CAR T cell therapy in treating autoimmune diseases, particularly since she was the first patient treated for three concurrent conditions simultaneously. “It’s astonishing that I could overcome three autoimmune diseases with just one treatment,” Muller remarked.
In response to viral infections, our bodies produce vast numbers of immune cells with random mutations. Unfortunately, some of these mutant cells become self-targeting and can persist indefinitely. This phenomenon occurred in the patient’s case over a decade ago during pregnancy, leading to her autoimmune hemolytic anemia—a severe condition where antibodies attack oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
Her immune system went on to produce antibodies that targeted platelets (leading to immune thrombocytopenia) and proteins preventing blood clots (causing antiphospholipid syndrome), exposing her to both severe anemia and dangerous clot risks.
Despite trying various immunosuppressive medications with no success, the patient required blood transfusions and anticoagulants to manage her symptoms until she was referred to Professor Müller and his team. In 2022, they became the first to treat an autoimmune disorder with CAR T cell therapy, a technique previously limited to cancer treatment.
For her treatment, researchers engineered CAR T cells to specifically target her abnormal antibody-producing immune cells. Following this intervention, these cells were effectively eliminated, restoring her immune system’s functions without entirely wiping it out.
Interestingly, her immune system recognized the infused CAR T cells as foreign and eliminated them within months, paving the way for the development of new, healthy antibody-producing cells. Consequently, her immune system is now functioning normally, free from the destructive cells responsible for her illness.
The CAR T therapy approach has shown promise for treating disorders like lupus, multiple sclerosis, colitis, and severe asthma. Unlike cancer treatments, which may induce severe side effects due to extensive cell death, the CAR T therapy used for autoimmune diseases is generally associated with far fewer adverse effects, as fewer cells need targeting.
Although some residual effects persisted, researchers believe these stem from previous drug therapies rather than the CAR T treatment itself. “This powerful treatment has minimal side effects and can resolve underlying symptoms, which is truly remarkable,” stated Ruben Benjamin from King’s College London.
Currently, most patients treated for autoimmune disorders with CAR T cell therapy have remained symptom-free, although some cases show a return of targeted cells, necessitating additional treatment options, as noted by Benjamin.
“Long-term follow-up is essential for a comprehensive assessment of these therapies,” he added. Jun Shi from the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences in Tianjin is leading an ongoing trial on 15 patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia using CAR T therapy. Read more about ongoing trials here.
While CAR T therapy is notably expensive, ranging from $200,000 to $600,000 due to its tailored nature, Muller emphasizes the long-term savings and benefits, suggesting that effective treatments can lead to individuals returning to work and improved quality of life. “The initial costs are high, but they could save substantial amounts in the long run,” he stated.
Cloning involves creating genetically identical copies, yet extensive research over the last 20 years reveals unexpected complexities. Clones often accumulate additional mutations, and if the cloning process is repeated, these mutations can reach lethal levels. This discovery presents important implications for cloning in agriculture, conservation, and even medical applications involving humans.
The core issue lies in the numerous mutations within clones. Adult somatic cells may accumulate more mutations than gametes (egg or sperm cells). Researchers such as Teruhiko Wakayama from the University of Yamanashi in Japan suggest that the cloning process may also contribute to these mutations. “While we once believed clones were identical to their originals, the accumulated mutations present significant challenges,” Wakayama states. “Our goal is to confirm that these mutations do not lead to complications.”
Historically, cloning mammals was deemed implausible because cellular differentiation adds various chemical tags that regulate gene activity. The successful birth of Dolly the sheep in July 1996 demonstrated that transferring the nucleus of an adult cell into an empty egg could effectively reprogram the genome, enabling cell growth. Shortly after, in October 1997, Wakayama created the first cloned mouse, Kumulina.
To evaluate the efficacy of his team’s cloning technique, Wakayama initiated cloning experiments in 2005. “Similar to how a reproduced painting loses detail, we aimed to assess the quality of the clones against the original,” he explains.
By 2013, Wakayama’s team had successfully generated over 500 mice from a single donor across 25 cloning generations, claiming, “Each cloned mouse exhibited no physical anomalies and maintained normal lifespan and health.” However, this level of success has not been replicated in other species. Cloned dogs continue to face health complications, and no primate has been cloned using adult cells to date. Initially, Wakayama believed repeated cloning in mice could extend indefinitely, yet by the 58th generation, not one clone survived.
To uncover the reasons behind this decline, the research team sequenced the genomes of ten different mice from various generations. They found an average of over 70 mutations per clonal generation, three times higher than in the naturally bred control group. Notably, after the 27th generation, significant mutations began to accumulate, even leading to the loss of the entire X chromosome.
This issue may stem from evolutionary mechanisms that protect gametes from mutations while allowing adult somatic cells to accrue more mutations. Recent studies suggest mutations accumulate eight times faster in blood cells compared to sperm. Thus, if the original cloned adult cell harbored numerous mutations, so too would the resulting clones.
Wakayama also posits that the nuclear transfer process may induce additional mutations. “It’s plausible that physical shock during nuclear transfer can damage the DNA,” he remarks. “If we can devise gentler nuclear transfer techniques, we might lower the mutation rate in cloned embryos—but we’re still seeking solutions.”
Shukrat Mitalipov, a professor at Oregon Health and Science University, remains skeptical. “The mutation rate evident in cloned subjects probably reflects the genomic nature of donor cells rather than being an inherent consequence of nuclear transfer,” he states.
While human cloning is prohibited in many regions, researchers like Mitalipov are exploring nuclear transfer’s potential for generating tissues and organs that are compatible for treatments, as well as for creating sperm and egg cells for infertility therapies. Wakayama’s findings highlight the necessity of thorough donor cell screening to prevent deleterious mutations. “Evaluating donor cell populations for harmful mutations is vital; if needed, gene editing could correct identified issues.”
Nevertheless, if the cloning process itself is responsible for inducing mutations, it presents additional challenges. Nonetheless, these findings do not signal that cloning techniques entail insurmountable risks. The mutation rate per generation remains relatively low, and safety screenings can be conducted post-cloning. However, they underscore the complexities inherent in cloning technology.
CERN’s antimatter factory, located in a high-magnetic field environment and a vacuum more extreme than interstellar space, houses some of the most delicate matter found on Earth. Nestled in a compact box roughly the size of a filing cabinet and a few hundred kilograms lighter than a Ford Focus, lie antiprotons that have been quietly resting for weeks. Rather than being aggressively tested like most particles produced in this facility, these antiprotons have a singular purpose: awaiting their moment of transport.
Shortly, more than a hundred of these precious antimatter particles will be transported in trucks along a four-kilometer ring road around the CERN campus. This marks the inaugural demonstration of a future antimatter delivery service designed to transport antimatter to laboratories across Europe.
During my visit to CERN’s campus near Geneva, Switzerland, project leader Christian Smolla guided me through the facility, showcasing the final preparations for the “Symmetry Test in Transportable Antiproton Experiments (STEP).” “This represents a groundbreaking achievement in antimatter science,” he remarked. “While the theoretical framework for transporting antiprotons existed since the facility’s inception, this is the first practical implementation.”
Since the 1920s, scientists have acknowledged the existence of antimatter, particles with counterparts that possess opposite charges. However, antiprotons, being the simplest form of antimatter, often annihilate upon contact with their more plentiful proton counterparts, complicating their production and storage. It wasn’t until the 1980s that CERN successfully conducted the first experiments to confine antiprotons, generated by proton bombardment of metal targets.
Today, CERN’s Antimatter Factory is the only location globally capable of producing millions of antiprotons on demand and retaining them for research purposes. Several experiments, including the Baryon Antibaryon Symmetry Experiment (BASE), take place here, with STEP also participating.
Christian Smolla Making Final Adjustments
David Stock
These experiments meticulously test antimatter’s fundamental properties, examining deviations from normal matter. Insights gleaned could provide answers to why our universe predominantly consists of matter, seemingly devoid of antimatter.
To achieve the necessary precision in measurements, it is essential to mitigate noise from radiation that might disrupt data collection. When antiprotons enter the detection zone, they approach nearly the speed of light, necessitating a robust magnetic field for deceleration, although complete blockage remains unattainable.
In 2018, Smolla’s team recognized the need for a quieter environment for antimatter, resulting in a strategic escape plan. “Observing variations in the magnetic field made it clear we had to continue precision measurements elsewhere,” Smolla stated.
Containing antimatter is a formidable challenge, requiring superconducting magnets cool enough to sustain near absolute zero temperatures while consuming massive electrical power. The STEP design leveraged just a 30-liter liquid helium tank for magnet cooling, allowing its electronics to function on a standard diesel generator. Future test runs aim to transition to battery power.
Additionally, magnets needed to withstand start-stop movements during operation, and a custom vacuum system was essential to ensure the antiprotons remain uncontaminated by normal matter during their loading and unloading processes.
In 2024, Smolla’s team is set to showcase the STEP experiment. A truck will transport the device across the CERN campus to observe protons, a significant milestone in antimatter transport.
In the days leading up to my visit, approximately 100 antiprotons were slowed and positioned within a sophisticated network of vacuum and electromagnetic fields.
Since then, they’ve patiently awaited the next steps within a complex arrangement of electrical wires and liquid helium lines. With a small oscilloscope screen, Smolla’s team monitors the antimatter’s vital signs. The natural frequencies at which antiprotons vibrate manifest as double humps, affectionately adorned with googly eyes.
Detection Signals Indicating Antiproton Presence
David Stock
On an early Tuesday morning, a crane carefully hoists the entire 850-kilogram trap onto a specialized truck. The truck’s operator is trained to manage CERN’s sensitive equipment, ensuring smooth acceleration and braking.
The truck will then navigate a four-kilometer loop around the CERN campus before returning to the antimatter factory. Should the experiment prove successful, Smolla’s ultimate goal is to extend this antimatter transport service beyond CERN’s confines, delivering antimatter capsules to various European laboratories. A facility currently under construction at Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf, Germany, aims to study antimatter in a near-field-free environment.
However, this ambitious goal entails several years of work. CERN is scheduled to suspend extensive operations in July to upgrade its Large Hadron Collider for higher power outputs, a task slated for completion in late 2028.
Once operational, the antimatter delivery service could mean trucks transporting antimatter alongside ordinary vehicles on highways throughout Switzerland and Germany. Though it sounds alarming—given antimatter’s tendency to annihilate upon contact with regular matter—Smolla assures that the risk remains minimal.
“Transporting antimatter is safe, as the quantities we handle are extremely small,” Smolla explains. “You could easily lose 1,000 antiprotons without any noticeable impact.”
In a groundbreaking development, researchers have designed a magnet small enough to fit in your palm that rivals the strength of the world’s most powerful magnets.
High-performance magnets are crucial in various scientific fields, being utilized in applications ranging from MRI machines and particle accelerators to advanced nuclear fusion research. The strongest magnets available typically use superconductors, which are materials that conduct electricity nearly without loss.
However, most superconducting magnets are sizable. Often, their smaller counterparts share similar dimensions with traditional superconductors. Take for instance Star Wars‘ R2D2; at its largest, it resembles a two-story structure. According to Dr. Alexander Burns from ETH Zurich, Switzerland, his team has engineered a superconducting magnet capable of matching the strength of larger counterparts, yet it’s only 3.1 millimeters in diameter. They achieved this by coiling a thin tape made of a ceramic known as REBCO, which becomes superconducting at cryogenic temperatures, generating a magnetic field when current flows through the coils.
Dr. Burns stated that the team procured REBCO tape from a commercial source, embarking on a rigorous exploration to determine the optimal magnet design, which involved creating and testing over 150 prototypes. “We adopted a ‘fail fast, fail often’ approach in our strategy,” he noted.
Design and Strength Comparison
Eventually, they refined a design using two or four pancake-shaped coils, achieving magnetic field strengths of 38 Tesla and 42 Tesla, respectively. To provide context, conventional refrigerator magnets typically generate fields less than 0.01 Tesla. The most powerful magnets currently in existence generate field strengths of around 45 Tesla, each weighing several tons and consuming up to 30 megawatts of power. In contrast, Burns and his team’s magnet is hand-sized and operates on less than 1 watt.
The ultimate goal for this groundbreaking technology is to enhance nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), a technique that utilizes magnetic fields to unveil molecular structures, including those of drugs and industrial catalysts. This technology has long been hindered by the large size and cost of traditional magnets, but the research team intends to democratize access to such advanced tools for chemists. Ongoing tests are being conducted to integrate the magnet into NMR setups.
“Historically, achieving magnetic fields exceeding 40 Tesla necessitated massive and costly facilities, making it crucial to utilize superconducting tape to attain similar strengths in a compact device,” stated Dr. Mark Ainslie from King’s College London. “This innovation indicates that ultra-high-field magnets may soon be accessible to a broader range of laboratories.”
Despite these advancements, several challenges remain before widespread adoption. Questions concerning how to maintain uniform magnetic fields and manage the electromagnetic behavior of the coils must be addressed.
A single dose of stem cells can significantly enhance physical endurance in older adults experiencing frailty. According to 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 are affected by this condition, as highlighted by a recent study published in the journal Cell Stem Cells.
The randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigated four escalating doses of laromestrocel, a treatment derived from donated bone marrow, in 148 adults aged 70 to 85 who were diagnosed with frailty.
After nine months, participants receiving the highest dose walked an average of 60 meters further than those given a placebo during a standard six-minute walk test, reflecting a remarkable 20% improvement.
“The results were astonishing,” said Dr. Joshua Hare, chief scientific officer of Ronnebellon, the company behind the treatment. He emphasized, “We noted a clear correlation based on dosage over time; higher doses led to a more pronounced increase in the six-minute walk test.”
Frailty is a prevalent but often misunderstood medical condition characterized by heightened vulnerability to stressors such as infections, falls, and surgical procedures, significantly beyond what is typically expected from normal aging.
This condition includes decreased muscle strength and endurance, leading to a sharply increased risk of disability, hospitalization, and mortality. According to the British Geriatrics Society, individuals with severe frailty are five times more likely to die within a year compared to those without frailty.
“When you observe 80-year-olds, some require 24-hour care in nursing homes, while others lead vibrant lives, participating in activities like tennis and golf,” Hare noted. “The biological differences play a crucial role.”
Hare suggests that inflammation, often exacerbated by age-related factors, is a significant contributor. As individuals age, their immune systems become dysregulated, with higher levels of inflammatory signaling molecules known as cytokines.
This chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, deplete stem cell reserves, and accelerate muscle loss, culminating in a condition known as sarcopenia.
The result is frailty; the body becomes less capable of self-repair and responding to physical or medical stressors.
Current treatments primarily focus on nutritional support and physical therapy.
“Typical interventions are rather straightforward,” Hare explained. “We recognized the need to address this at a biological level, as we understand the underlying issues.”
Mesenchymal stem cells, naturally found in bone marrow and other tissues, are of great scientific interest due to their immune-modulating capabilities.
Importantly, these cells possess minimal surface proteins responsible for immune rejection, minimizing the need for immunosuppressive drugs—an important consideration for vulnerable patients.
Participants receiving the highest dose of stem cells achieved a remarkable 20% improvement in a six-minute walk test – Photo credit: Getty
Hare and his team harvested stem cells from donated bone marrow and administered them intravenously to participants, who were either given a placebo or one of four doses of lalometrocel in a double-blind setup.
The results, monitored every three months over nine months, clearly indicated that increased stem cell doses significantly enhanced walking distance. Conversely, the placebo group exhibited expected declines in physical performance typical of frail individuals aged 75 and older.
Patient-reported outcomes from questionnaires assessing physical performance, upper body strength, and mobility confirmed improvements that aligned with objective measurements from the walk tests. Participants also showed progress on a doctor-rated frailty scale ranging from 1 (most frail) to 9 (least frail).
“One-third of treated participants achieved health scores of 2 or 3,” Hare stated, indicating they were no longer deemed frail.
Researchers identified soluble Tie2 as a potential biological marker for therapeutic efficacy, a protein released into the bloodstream upon inflammation or breakdown of blood vessel walls. Patients receiving stem cells showed decreasing levels of this marker in a dose-dependent manner.
“This evidence suggests that medical interventions can potentially reverse frailty,” stated Dr. Andrew Steele, Director of the Longevity Initiative. He highlighted the challenge of achieving physical activity in frail individuals and celebrated the remarkable potential of stem cell infusions to not only slow decline but also to foster tangible improvement.
Nonetheless, the study raises key questions. The wide-ranging effects of stem cells leave uncertainties about the exact mechanisms at play.
“These cells might be targeting areas where they are most needed and regenerating cells,” said Steele. “Alternatively, they could be releasing a mix of anti-aging molecules that rejuvenate the body’s own cells.”
The follow-up period lasted nine months, leaving questions regarding the sustainability of improvements and the effectiveness of repeated doses.
Hare’s team has conducted long-term trials with multiple doses, showing preliminary evidence that participants improve without side effects and maintain benefits, though the evidence lacks robustness compared to controlled trials. Formal studies on repeat dosing are on the horizon.
Furthermore, significant regulatory challenges loom. Currently, frailty is not recognized as a disease by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the European Food and Drug Administration, complicating the approval process.
“It will be a tough fight,” Hare cautioned, adding that the approval pathway for laromestrocel could be expedited for Alzheimer’s disease, with promising results in related clinical trials evidenced in another study.
“We believe treatments for age-related frailty will likely be approved alongside those for Alzheimer’s, given that the latter is a well-defined condition with pressing unmet needs.”
To date, the trials indicate promise, presenting strong evidence that frailty is not an inevitable consequence of aging but a biological process that can be at least partially reversed.
“Human lifespan has nearly doubled in the last 120 years,” Hare remarked. “However, healthy life expectancy hasn’t progressed at the same pace. There will always be an end-of-life phase marked by disability and frailty.”
If progress continues, the gap between lifespan and healthy living could finally begin to close.
A small number of companies are developing biological computers
Floriana/Getty Images
Data centers consume vast amounts of energy while the demand for computer chips continues to soar. Could utilizing brain cells be the solution?
Australian startup Cortical Labs is pioneering this field, planning to establish two innovative “biological” data centers in Melbourne and Singapore. These cutting-edge data centers will feature chips integrated with reproducible neurons. Pon vs. Doom.
Cortical Labs stands out as one of the few firms creating biological computers that link nerve cells to microelectrode arrays, enabling the stimulation and measurement of cell responses during data input. Recently, the company successfully showcased that its primary model, the CL1, can learn to play games like Doom within just a week.
The first data center in Melbourne is set to accommodate around 120 CL1 units, while a second facility in collaboration with the National University of Singapore will initially support 20 CL1 systems, with plans to expand to 1,000 pending regulatory approval. This initiative aims to enhance cloud-based brain computing services.
According to Michael Barros from the University of Essex, UK, while biological computers have been constructed and tested globally, they remain challenging to build and use. He states, “We invest a lot of time and resources developing these systems.”
Barros further elaborates that Cortical Labs is democratizing access to biocomputers at scale, pioneering an accessible approach in the industry.
These systems can be trained for simple tasks, such as playing Doom, yet there are challenges in understanding how neurons function and training them for more complex tasks like machine learning. Reinhold Scherer, also from the University of Essex, notes, “When you access this technology, it opens doors to exploration in learning, training, and programming, but neurons cannot be programmed like standard computers.”
Cortical Labs asserts that its biological data centers use significantly less energy than traditional computing systems, with each CL1 requiring only 30 watts compared to thousands needed by leading conventional AI chips.
Paul Roach from Loughborough University, UK, emphasizes that scaling biocomputers into entire rooms, akin to traditional data servers, could yield substantial energy savings. Notably, while biological data centers may necessitate nutrients to sustain neuron chips, they require less cooling energy than conventional computing infrastructures, suggesting significant potential for energy conservation.
Nevertheless, experts like Tjeerd Olde Scheper, who holds a PhD from Oxford Brookes University, recognize that the technology remains nascent. “Will it perform as expected? We are still in the early developmental phase,” he comments.
Although direct comparisons between the sizes of biological and silicon AI systems remain complex, it’s notable that the envisioned biological data center would integrate hundreds of biological chips in contrast to the hundreds of thousands of GPUs typically found in large-scale AI data centers.
“We have a long way to go before these systems are production-ready. Transitioning from a small network playing games to a large language model is a substantial leap,” says Steve Furber from the University of Manchester, UK.
A pressing concern is the lack of clarity on how to store training outcomes within neurons as memory, or how to execute computational algorithms beyond specific tasks, such as video gaming.
Additionally, retraining neurons post-task completion poses challenges, as their training and learning may be lost upon the end of their lifespan. “Proper retraining is essential,” Scherer states. “If retraining is required every 30 days, it may hinder technological continuity.”
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Saturn’s moon Enceladus: A Prime Candidate in the Search for Extraterrestrial Life
Credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute
A revolutionary method for detecting chemical properties of living organisms could unlock the secrets to identifying extraterrestrial life forms, even those with biochemical processes distinct from life on Earth.
In the quest for extraterrestrial life, scientists traditionally depend on biosignatures—substances or patterns that reliably signify the presence of life. By analyzing the atmospheres of distant planets, astronomers search for molecular biosignatures. However, many molecules associated with life can also arise from geological activities, suggesting a careful approach to interpretation.
A novel test developed by Christopher Carr and colleagues from Georgia Tech focuses on amino acids, which serve as fundamental components of proteins that sustain all known life forms. While amino acids can also be produced in lifeless environments, they have been uncovered in lunar soil, comets, and meteorites.
Given this, Carr and his team proposed that analyzing the reactivity of molecules within samples could provide more reliable biological indicators than merely detecting amino acids.
In non-living systems, molecules are continuously formed and destroyed as they react with environmental factors like cosmic rays. The more reactive a molecule, the more likely it is to decompose. “Without stable systems to maintain molecules, their reactivity increases,” explains Carr. However, living systems require reactive molecules, therefore they retain more reactive ones, creating distinct biochemical signatures.
The reactivity of compounds hinges on the arrangement of electrons in the molecules. More reactive molecules exhibit smaller energy differences between their outermost electron and the next available electron space during reactions.
Carr and his team calculated energy differences for 64 amino acids, including those not present in Earth’s biosphere. They analyzed the prevalence of these amino acids in samples sourced from both abiotic processes (like meteorites and lunar soil) and biotic sources (like fungi and bacteria), employing molecular energy calculations to establish a statistical framework for amino acid reactivity. This allowed them to estimate the probability of a sample being alive or inorganic.
After testing over 200 living and nonliving samples, they found their method could accurately identify life with 95 percent certainty. “This approach is remarkably straightforward,” Carr asserts. “It’s easily explainable and directly linked to the principles of physics.”
This reactivity-based method is applicable to the search for extraterrestrial life, as Carr posits that if life exists elsewhere, it likely relies on carbon-based chemistry and amino acids, governed by the same principles of chemical reactivity present on Earth. “Life inherently requires control over the timing, methods, and locations of molecular interactions. Therefore, structures that facilitate electron flow and molecular interactions are essential,” Carr notes.
While utilizing molecular reactivity to identify life isn’t new, measuring reactivity through statistical distributions is an innovative advancement. Henderson Cleaves from Howard University suggests that this method could enhance the toolkit of life-detection instruments on forthcoming space missions to Mars or the moons of Saturn, most notably Enceladus. However, Cleaves notes that the technology to accurately measure molecular abundance is a significant challenge.
Exploring the Mysteries of the Universe: Cheshire, England
Embark on a weekend with some of the brightest minds in science, diving deep into the mysteries of the universe, featuring a tour of the iconic Lovell Telescope.
Mehdi Namazi aims to revolutionize communication through quantum entanglement.
Along with his team at Qunnect, he has dedicated nearly a decade to developing a device that enables the sharing of quantum-entangled light particles (photons), making secure communication a reality.
Located at Qunnect’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, a state-of-the-art table is filled with lasers, lenses, special crystals, and other components essential for manipulating light. All of this technology will be elegantly packaged in striking magenta boxes and dispatched to those advancing future communication technology.
Against the backdrop of the iconic New York skyline, Namazi unveils an electronic device that may seem unremarkable at first. However, when stacked, these boxes form what the company refers to as the Carina rack, capable of performing extraordinary quantum functions.
In February, the Qunnect team used these racks for “entanglement swapping” over a 17.6-kilometre fiber-optic connection between Brooklyn and Manhattan through commercial data centers.
Entanglement exchange involves transferring entangled properties from one photon pair to another. Once photons are entangled, they demonstrate extreme sensitivity to tampering, making it exceedingly difficult to steal information without detection. This swapping technique extends the essence of unhackable communication to long-distance quantum internet applications.
Qunnect successfully exchanged quantum entanglements among 5,400 photon pairs every hour while the network operated autonomously for several days. Previously established experiments recorded significantly lower rates of entanglement exchange.
Before the Carina Rack can perform its magic, entangled photons must be generated using another device. At the heart of this “entanglement source” lies a glass and metal box containing rubidium atoms vapor, illuminated by laser light to produce photon pairs. Namazi recounts how precise adjustments to the laser beam’s angle increased the number of entangled photons produced.
Once generated, the Carina Rack transmits these photons through a fiber network to laboratories across New York City, including prestigious institutions like New York University and Columbia University.
Namazi illustrates how one might set up a personal entanglement sharing system to send super-secure messages. “With two Carina racks, we can distribute entanglements within hours,” he states.
Qunnect maintains one such rack in a Manhattan-based commercial data center managed by QTD Systems. When asked, QTD’s Peter Feldman echoed Namazi’s assurance: “You don’t need to know anything about quantum physics.” The systems that sustain photon entanglement in Qunnect’s network can be operated remotely, allowing autonomous function for weeks.
Qunnect’s Advanced Quantum Network
Knecht
The quest for an unhackable quantum internet is not confined to New York City. Numerous metropolitan quantum networks are emerging globally, including those in Hefei, China, and Chicago, Illinois. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the loss of photons over extensive distances.
Namazi emphasizes that quantum entanglement could have immediate applications. By integrating entangled photons into classical light streams, malicious interception attempts can be detected, serving as a quantum tripwire.
Another practical use is authenticating the identity of individuals exchanging sensitive information based on their location. Collaborating with Alexander Gaeta at Columbia University, Qunnect is actively exploring these capabilities. In a single New York borough, numerous financial institutions could significantly benefit from such advancements, as indicated by Javad Shabani at New York University. “Once the infrastructure is established, the demand will follow, probably from just across the street.”
While the quantum internet is still in its infancy, I was impressed by the extent of operational technology during my drive from Qunnect’s headquarters to QTD’s data center. As I crossed one of New York’s bridges, I pondered the multitude of entangled photons traversing the city—a bustling metropolis with endless potential.
An oil spill at sea represents one of the worst man-made disasters in history. Surprisingly, introducing a fire whirlpool may emerge as an innovative solution. A recent study reveals it might be an effective method to address the aftermath.
In responding to significant oil spills, emergency teams often ignite oil slicks on the ocean surface, creating fire pits “on-site” to curb the further spread of oil.
While this approach helps protect marine ecosystems, it simultaneously releases substantial amounts of smoke and toxic soot into the atmosphere.
The inspiration for this method traces back to an unusual incident in Kentucky in 2003, where a bourbon spill ignited 800,000 gallons, creating a 30-meter (100-foot) firestorm over a lake. Professor Elaine Oran and her team began exploring whether this process could be utilized more permanently.
“We were joking about what it would smell like,” she shared with BBC Science Focus. “Then we examined the event closely. The larger fire vortex was effectively consuming smaller fire vortices, drawing them in and absorbing them.”
The team constructed a 4.8-meter (16-foot) triple-walled triangular structure at a fire training facility in Texas, featuring a pool of crude oil at its center. When ignited, this setup created a roaring fire vortex approximately 5.2 meters (17 feet) high.
Initial large-scale experiments demonstrate that fire vortices burn spilled oil faster and cleaner than traditional fire pools, showcasing innovative potential for ocean cleanup. – Photo credit: Texas A&M University College of Engineering
Compared to conventional fire pools, the oil burns 40% faster, soot emissions are reduced by 40%, and up to 95% of the fuel is consumed.
The secret to this efficiency lies in the fire’s spin. Instead of spreading outward, the vortex pulls in oxygen from all angles, allowing for hotter and more complete combustion, akin to a giant incinerator rather than a simple bonfire.
However, harnessing this fire whirlpool’s power is no easy task. The structure is unpredictable; too much wind can lead to its collapse, while insufficient airflow control may revert it to a traditional fire pool.
Nonetheless, achieving a “Goldilocks Zone” on-site is “very realistic,” according to Oran, who envisions deploying a movable barrier structure directly above oil spills at sea.
“This research is more than just an experiment; it offers a glimpse into a future where fire is not merely a destructive force, but a tool to safeguard our oceans and our planet,” she stated.
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Human Neurons Playing Doom on a Chip
Cortical Research Institute
A cluster of human brain cells has been demonstrated to play the classic game Doom. While the performance doesn’t yet match human ability, experts believe this breakthrough gets us closer to practical applications for biological computers, such as controlling robotic arms.
In 2021, researchers from the Cortical Research Institute employed a computer chip featuring neurons known as Pon. The chip, comprising over 800,000 living brain cells on a microelectrode array, was capable of both sending and receiving electrical signals. The researchers meticulously trained the chip to manipulate the paddles on the screen’s edges.
<p>Recently, Cortical Labs introduced an easier interface to program these chips using the widely-used programming language Python. Independent developer <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-cole-8985a4207/">Sean Cole</a> utilized this interface to teach the chip how to play <em>Doom</em> in just about a week.</p>
<p>“Unlike the <em>Pon</em> project that involved years of rigorous scientific labor, this new demonstration was achieved in mere days by individuals with limited prior experience in biology,” said <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bvWRHNcAAAAJ&hl=en">Brett Kagan</a> from the Cortical Institute. “This accessibility and flexibility is incredibly exciting.”</p>
<p>The neuron-based computer chips utilized approximately a quarter of the neurons found in traditional chips. While the <em>Pon</em> demonstration yielded better results in <em>Doom</em> than random input from players, its performance still lagged behind that of top human gamers. However, it can learn significantly faster than conventional silicon-based machine learning systems, and new learning algorithms are expected to enhance its performance, according to Kagan.</p>
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<p>Comparing these biological chips to the human brain can be misleading, he suggests. "While it is indeed living tissue, the mechanisms it employs for information processing are dissimilar to those of silicon," he explains.</p>
<p><em>Doom</em> poses a substantial challenge compared to prior example games, and the ability to successfully engage with it marks a significant advancement in controlling and training living neural systems, states <a href="https://people.uwe.ac.uk/Person/AndrewAdamatzky">Andrew Adamatzky</a> from the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK.</p>
<p>Researchers like <a href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=jLnsiBEAAAAJ&hl=en">Steve Farber</a> from the University of Manchester concur, noting that the ability to play <em>Doom</em> represents significant progress. He also pointed out that many unanswered questions remain regarding how neurons comprehend gameplay expectations and how they interface with a screen without visual organs.</p>
<p>Regardless, the leap in capabilities is promising. <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/biomedical-engineering/staff/yoshikatsu-hayashi">Yoshikatsu Hayashi</a> from the University of Reading is working towards practical applications like using biological computers to control robotic arms. His team is experimenting with a similar computer made of jelly-like hydrogel. “[Playing <em>Doom</em>] serves as a simpler analogy for controlling an entire arm,” Hayashi articulates.</p>
<p>“The significance here goes beyond just biological systems playing <em>Doom</em>,” adds Adamatzky. “It demonstrates the potential to navigate complexities, uncertainties, and real-time decision-making—skills essential for future biological or hybrid computing solutions.”</p>
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A century ago, the advent of quantum mechanics left physicists gazing into the unknown. Long-held beliefs about reality were called into question. Today, we delve into the enigmatic realm of quantum probability clouds and their peculiar behaviors, even at a distance.
Liminal is a profound installation by artist Pierre Huyghe (featured above) that captures many poignant concepts. Set in Halle am Berghain—formerly an East Berlin power station and now a renowned techno club—this exhibition features immersive video projections and soundscapes that resonate deeply within the gritty remnants of the concrete structure.
Huyghe’s art emerges from the collapse of atoms transitioning between quantum states, creating soundscapes that reflect the universe’s fundamental language. Some interpretations suggest that reality is not constructed from quantum fields; instead, the quantum state only represents our knowledge, implying that the external world may not truly exist. Huyghe’s depiction of faceless figures intertwined with the landscape powerfully encapsulates this concept, transcending simplistic explanations.
Research from Toronto’s Baycrest Hospital indicates that **birdwatching** significantly enhances cognitive abilities and overall brain function.
According to their latest findings, skills such as keen observation, prolonged attention, and robust memory are linked to extensive use of binoculars. Notably, these abilities can fundamentally reorganize brain structure, leading to enhanced cognition.
Published in the Journal of Neuroscience, the study involved a comparison of brain structures in 29 expert birdwatchers and 29 novices, with balanced gender and age distribution.
Brain scans demonstrated that expert birdwatchers possess more compact areas related to attention and perception, which enhances their bird identification skills.
Interestingly, the mobility of water molecules in these brain regions is enhanced, improving the birdwatchers’ ability to discern unfamiliar or local bird species.
While various learning experiences, such as picking up a new instrument or language, are beneficial for brain health, this study emphasizes that birdwatching’s complexity offers unique cognitive advantages.
“What’s notable about this research is that birdwatching engages ongoing perception, attention, and memory, preventing a state of cognitive autopilot,” explained Professor Martin Sliwinski to BBC Science Focus. Sliwinski, who was not part of the study, serves as director at Penn State’s Center on Healthy Aging.
“To have cognitive benefits, a stimulating activity must remain challenging, which holds true for birdwatching,” he added.
“Even experienced birders cannot depend on automatic responses due to the ever-changing environment and cues, often experienced under conditions of uncertainty and time constraints.”
Moreover, researchers suggest that these enhanced skills and accompanying brain changes could bolster cognition in older adults, as older birdwatchers in the study demonstrated superior facial recognition and recall abilities compared to novices.
However, Sliwinski noted that other influences may also play a role, stating, “Individuals with higher cognitive capabilities and an interest in birds may be more predisposed to take up birdwatching and progress to experts.”
In essence, it’s possible that rather than birdwatching directly sharpening cognitive function, those with existing cognitive strengths are naturally inclined to pursue this engaging hobby.
As human space exploration delves deeper into the cosmos, the urgency for sustainable methods to harvest local resources grows, rendering frequent resupply missions increasingly impractical. Asteroids, particularly those abundant in valuable metals like platinum group elements, have become key targets. Recently, scientists conducted a groundbreaking experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS), utilizing bacteria and fungi to extract 44 elements from asteroid materials in microgravity.
NASA astronaut Michael Scott Hopkins conducts microgravity experiments on the International Space Station. Image credit: NASA.
In this innovative project, known as BioAsteroid, Professor Charles Cockell and his team at the University of Edinburgh utilized the bacterial species Sphingomonas desicabilis and the fungus Penicillium simplicissimum to explore which elements could be extracted from L-chondrite asteroid materials.
Understanding microbial interactions with rocks in microgravity is equally essential.
“This is likely the first experiment of its nature using a meteorite on the International Space Station,” states Dr. Rosa Santomartino, a researcher at Cornell University and the University of Edinburgh.
“Our aim was to customize our methodology while ensuring it remained broadly applicable for enhanced efficacy.”
“These two species behave uniquely and extract varied elements.”
“Given the limited knowledge on microbial behavior in space, we aimed to keep our results universally applicable.”
These microorganisms present promising solutions for resource extraction, as they generate carboxylic acids—carbon molecules that bind to minerals and promote their release through complex formation.
Nonetheless, many questions linger regarding this mechanism, leading researchers to conduct a metabolomic analysis. This analysis involved examining liquid cultures from completed experimental samples, focusing on the presence of biomolecules, particularly secondary metabolites.
NASA astronaut Michael Scott Hopkins conducted experiments aboard the ISS to examine microgravity’s effects, while researchers performed controlled experiments on Earth for comparative data.
Substantial data analysis yielded insights into 44 different elements, 18 of which were biologically derived.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of L-chondrite fragments under two gravity conditions. Image credit: Santomartino others., doi: 10.1038/s41526-026-00567-3.
“We drilled down to a single-element analysis and began to question whether extraction processes differ in space versus Earth,” notes Dr. Alessandro Stilpe from Cornell University and the University of Edinburgh.
“Do more elements get extracted in the presence of bacteria, fungi, or both?”
“Is this merely noise? Or do we observe coherent patterns? Differential outcomes were modest but intriguing.”
The analysis highlighted significant metabolic changes in microorganisms, particularly fungi, in space, leading to increased production of carboxylic acids and promoting the release of elements like palladium and platinum.
For several elements, abiotic leaching proved less effective in microgravity compared to Earth, while microorganisms demonstrated consistent extraction results across both environments.
“Microorganisms do not enhance extraction rates directly but maintain extraction levels regardless of gravity,” explains Dr. Santomartino.
“This finding is applicable to not just palladium but many metals, though not all.”
“Interestingly, extraction rates varied significantly by metal type, influenced by microbial and gravitational conditions.”
For detailed insights, refer to the results published in npj microgravity.
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R. Santomartino others. Microbial biomining from asteroid material on the International Space Station. npj microgravity published online on January 30, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41526-026-00567-3
Detecting decay in meat is often challenging. Fresh-looking meat inside a sealed package can conceal harmful microorganisms. Annually, food poisoning impacts millions globally, with 200 diseases linked to unsafe food consumption.
Consumers unknowingly ingest spoiled meat containing biogenic amines (BAs). Food inspectors traditionally detect these compounds through direct sampling and extensive lab analysis. However, once meat is packaged for retail, such testing becomes time-consuming and impractical, making spoilage hard to identify.
Researchers from the China Institute of Food Science and Technology have devised a novel approach for visually detecting spoilage inside sealed food packages. They utilized a tiny carbon-based material known as carbon dots, which are mere thousandths of a human hair in width. These nanoscale dots possess a unique ability to absorb ultraviolet light and emit visible fluorescence, with color variations contingent on their chemical environment. Although most carbon dots emit blue-green light, researchers are striving to shift this fluorescence to a noticeable red hue for easier identification.
The team synthesized these carbon dots using ethanol, which dissolves citric acid and a nitrogen-rich compound, o-phenyldiamine (OPD) known for enhancing red fluorescence. By heating this mixture at 220 °C (428 °F) for six hours and subsequently purifying it via centrifuge and filtration, researchers incorporated various elements to fine-tune the fluorescence properties of the carbon dots, developing OPD variants containing fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine.
For sensitivity testing, researchers added up to 50 milligrams per liter (mg/L) of BAs to each carbon dot solution. They noted distinct fluorescence color changes after mixing for five minutes, with the chlorinated variant displaying the most pronounced transformation from orange-red to yellow. This reaction is attributed to BAs interacting with chlorinated carbon dots, altering their surface properties and resulting in color changes. Consequently, chlorinated carbon dots were identified as optimal indicators for visual BA detection. The biosensor was created by soaking filter paper in a 5 mg/mL chlorinated carbon dot solution for 30 minutes, followed by a 15-minute drying process at 37 °C (99 °F).
To evaluate real-world effectiveness, the researchers placed pork, beef, and mutton in separate plastic trays, attaching the biosensor underneath the lid. They sealed the trays and stored them at 25 °C (77 °F) under ultraviolet light. As a control, a similar tray was prepared containing only a moist sponge and the biosensor, without meat. Results indicated that the biosensors in pork and lamb trays turned bright yellow after 24 hours, while beef biosensors showed a color change after 36 hours. The control biosensor exhibited no noticeable changes.
Additionally, the team developed a smartphone app for color analysis, allowing for image processing and reporting of color values. This app computes numerical ratios between red, green, and blue color components, facilitating objective assessments of color changes linked to spoilage. They further compared these values with the globally acknowledged meat spoilage index, Total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N), a commonly used indicator for meat freshness. The researchers found a strong linear correlation between TVB-N values and their data, confirming that biosensor color changes reliably indicated spoilage.
In conclusion, the research team successfully created an efficient process to produce color-changing carbon dots functioning as visual spoilage sensors. Integrating these into food packaging enables real-time freshness assessment of meat, simply using ultraviolet light and a smartphone. This innovative technology holds potential to enhance food safety, better supply chain management, and reduce food waste.
This image combines views from the Hubble and Keck II telescopes. The diagonal galaxy in the foreground serves as a gravitational lens, causing a distorted image of the background galaxy H1429-0028.
Credit: NASA/ESA/ESO/WM Keck Observatory
Astronomers have identified an unprecedented microwave beam, akin to a laser, emitted from two colliding galaxies. This discovery, the brightest and most distant recorded, marks a significant milestone in our understanding of cosmic phenomena.
The generation of laser light involves stimulating atoms into a high-energy state. When photons interact with these excited atoms, they induce the release of additional photons, leading to a chain reaction. The result is a coherent light beam with uniform frequency.
Similarly, during galactic collisions, compressed gas triggers star formation and enhanced luminosity. As light travels through dust clouds, it can excite hydroxyl ions composed of hydrogen and oxygen into a high-energy state. When these ions are stimulated by radio waves, potentially from a supermassive black hole, they can release concentrated beams of microwave radiation known as masers.
Recently, Roger Dean and researchers from the University of Pretoria discovered the brightest and most distant maser in galaxy H1429-0028, approximately 8 billion light-years from Earth. Gravitational lensing, caused by a massive galaxy, distorts the light from H1429-0028, acting like a cosmic magnifying glass.
Using the MeerKAT telescope—a network of 64 radio telescopes working collaboratively—Dean and his team searched for galaxies abundant in hydrogen molecules emitting distinctive frequencies. When they focused on H1429-0028, they detected an unusually strong radiation signal, indicating the presence of powerful masers.
“Upon checking the frequency of 1667 megahertz, we immediately recognized a significant signal. What was once a mere observation transformed into a record-breaking discovery,” Dean recalls.
These extraordinary light emissions could be classified as gigamasers, far exceeding the brightness of typical megamasers found closer to the Milky Way, with an intensity approximately 100,000 times that of an ordinary star, tightly concentrated in a minuscule region of space.
Future enhancements, including the development of the South African Square Kilometer Array, will be capable of detecting even more distant masers, poised to revolutionize our understanding of cosmic history. As Matt Jarvis from Oxford University notes, these masers may offer insights into the merger processes of some of the universe’s earliest galaxies.
“To acquire accurate data about these ancient galactic mergers, we require continuous radio and infrared emissions, primarily sourced from heated dust enveloping forming stars,” Jarvis explains. “The intricate physical conditions needed to produce masers originate from these galactic collisions.”
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Have you ever noticed how a forgotten cup of coffee cools down as it releases heat to the surrounding air? In the fascinating world of quantum mechanics, this process can actually be reversed. This surprising finding suggests that the second law of thermodynamics—which posits that heat flows from hot to cold—might require reevaluation.
Dawei Lu, a part of a research team from Southern University of Science and Technology in China, challenges conventional physics by exploring this thermodynamic phenomenon using crotonic acid molecules, which are made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The team utilized the nuclei of four carbon atoms as qubits, the fundamental units of quantum computers that store quantum information. Unlike traditional computations that use electromagnetic radiation to control qubit states, the researchers directed heat from cooler qubits to hotter ones.
Such a reversal would be impossible in our everyday experiences, like the cooling of coffee, which needs additional energy to achieve what is termed heat regurgitation. However, in the quantum realm, fuel in the form of quantum information—specifically “coherence”—is available. As Lu explains, “By injecting and manipulating this quantum information, we can reverse the normal direction of heat flow. Exciting times indeed.”
Interestingly, the breakdown of thermodynamic laws in quantum mechanics isn’t entirely unexpected. The second law was formulated in the 19th century, long before quantum physics took its place in scientific discourse. To address this inconsistency, Lu and his colleagues derived an “apparent temperature” for each qubit, a reinterpretation of classical temperature that accommodates quantum properties like coherence. This leads to the reaffirmation that thermal energy indeed flows from a higher apparent temperature to a lower one, aligning with established thermodynamic principles.
In a related system, Roberto Serra from Brazil’s ABC Federal University emphasizes that quantum properties such as coherence act as a thermodynamic resource—akin to how heat powers a steam engine. By manipulating these quantum resources, researchers can intentionally breach the classical laws of thermodynamics. “Traditional thermodynamic laws were conceived without considering our access to such microscopic states, revealing a need for new theoretical frameworks,” Serra points out.
The team aspires to adapt their thermal inversion experiments into practical techniques for regulating heat between qubits. Lu envisions that mastering the relationship between quantum information and thermal management could significantly enhance quantum computing capabilities. This advancement holds pivotal implications for the expanding field of quantum technologies, especially since conventional computers face severe limitations due to overheating issues.
Explore the Dark Craters near the Moon’s South Pole
Credit: Science Photo Library / Alamy
Scientists aim to establish a groundbreaking laser system in one of the moon’s coldest craters to significantly enhance the navigation capabilities of lunar landers and rovers.
Ultra-stable lasers are vital for highly precise timing and navigation systems. These lasers operate by reflecting a beam between two mirrors within a cavity, maintaining a consistent beam speed. This precision is largely due to the chamber’s size stability, which neither expands nor contracts. To achieve this, mirrors are typically maintained in a cryogenic vacuum, insulated from external vibrations.
The moon hosts numerous craters at its poles, which lack direct sunlight due to minimal axial tilt. Consequently, these permanently shadowed areas are extremely cold, with some craters projected to reach temperatures around -253°C (20 Kelvin) during the lunar winter.
Junye from JILA, along with a research team in Boulder, Colorado, has proposed that these icy conditions, combined with the moon’s absence of natural vibrations and an almost non-existent atmosphere, make these craters ideal for ultra-stable lasers. The potential stability of these lunar lasers could surpass that of any terrestrial counterparts.
“The entire environment is incredibly stable,” Ye emphasizes. “Despite variations between summer and winter on the Moon, temperature fluctuations range only from 20 to 50 Kelvin, contributing to a remarkably consistent environment.”
Ye and his research team envision a lunar laser device akin to an optical cavity already developed in JILA’s lab, featuring a silicon chamber equipped with dual mirrors.
Current optical cavity lasers on Earth can maintain coherence for just a few seconds, meaning their light waves can synchronize briefly. However, the moon-based laser is projected to sustain coherence for at least a minute, which will facilitate its role as a reference laser for a variety of lunar missions. This includes maintaining the lunar time zone and coordinating satellite formations using lasers for distance measurement. Given that light from the moon takes just over a second to reach Earth, it could also serve as a reliable reference for Earth-based activities, as highlighted by Ye.
Although implementing this idea poses challenges, the rationale is sound and could greatly benefit future lunar missions. According to Simeon Barber from the Open University, UK, “Recent lunar landers have experienced suboptimal landings due to varying lighting conditions, complicating vision-based systems. Leveraging stable lasers for positioning, navigation, and timing could enhance the reliability of landings in high-latitude areas.”
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The Evolution of Generative AI: Meet OpenClaw
Since the launch of ChatGPT, Generative AI has transformed our digital landscape over the past three years. It has spurred a significant stock market boom, integrated into our search engines, and become an essential tool for hundreds of millions of users daily.
Despite its benefits, many still hesitate to use AI tools. But why? While asking AI for text, audio, images, and videos can save time, crafting the right prompts often becomes a burdensome task. Users still grapple with everyday chores like answering emails, booking appointments, and paying bills.
This is where AI’s true power lies; handling the mundane tasks. The promising concept of “agent AI” suggests that people desire an efficient, always-on assistant to tackle time-consuming tasks. The latest advancement in this field is OpenClaw.
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw, previously known as ClawdBot, is an AI agent poised to fulfill AI’s grand promises. Once granted access to your computer files, social media, and email accounts, it can efficiently complete various tasks. This capability is powered by Claude Code, a model released by the AI company Anthropic.
Developed by software engineer Peter Steinberger and launched in late November 2025, ClawdBot initially gained traction but was rebranded due to concerns from Anthropic. After temporarily adopting the name MoltBot, it is now officially known as OpenClaw. (Mr. Steinberger did not respond to multiple interview requests.)
How Does OpenClaw Work?
OpenClaw operates on your computer or a virtual private server and connects messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord to coding agents powered by models like Anthropic’s Claude. Users often opt for a high-performance device, like the Apple Mac Mini, to host OpenClaw for optimal speed. Due to increasing demand, some shops are reporting sold-out status.
Although it can run on older laptops, OpenClaw needs to stay operational 24/7 to execute your specified commands.
Commands are sent through your preferred messaging app, enabling a simple conversational interface. When you message OpenClaw, the AI agent interprets your prompt, generates, and executes commands on your machine. This can include tasks such as finding files, running scripts, editing documents, and automating browser activities. The results are succinctly summarized and sent back to you, creating an efficient communication loop akin to collaborating with a colleague.
How Can OpenClaw Help You?
OpenClaw serves as an all-in-one assistant for both personal and professional tasks. Users typically start by decluttering files on their devices before transferring the tech’s prowess to more complex responsibilities. Some users report utilizing it to manage busy WhatsApp groups by summarizing necessary information and filtering out the irrelevant.
Other practical applications include:
Comparing supplier prices to minimize household spending.
Automating web browser tasks for seamless transactions.
Facilitating restaurant reservations by calling venues directly.
Preparing initial drafts for presentations while you sleep.
What Are the Risks?
While OpenClaw’s capabilities shine brightest when granted extensive access, this convenience raises significant risks. Experts warn that users may overlook potential vulnerabilities. For instance, OpenClaw could be exposed to prompt injection attacks or hacking if hosted on insufficiently secured virtual servers. This means sensitive data could be compromised.
Alan Woodward, a cybersecurity professor at the University of Surrey, cautions, “I can’t believe people would allow unrestricted access to sensitive software, including email and calendars.”
White hat hackers have already identified several security flaws in OpenClaw, raising concerns about the hands-off approach many users prefer, which simultaneously invites substantial risk.
Is This the Future of AI?
OpenClaw has recently launched its own social network, Moltbook, enabling its AI agents to interact and share insights. While humans can observe, they cannot engage directly in discussions, prompting fears about progression toward artificial general intelligence (AGI), potentially matching or exceeding human capabilities.
As we navigate this new realm, it’s vital to consider the implications of relinquishing extensive data access to AI agents. We may be standing on the brink of a new AI era—an agent capable of managing your life efficiently, if you’re prepared to grant it free access and relinquish control. It’s a thrilling yet daunting prospect.
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Quantum batteries are making their debut in quantum computers, paving the way for future quantum technologies. These innovative batteries utilize quantum bits, or qubits, that change states, differing from traditional batteries that rely on electrochemical reactions.
Research indicates that harnessing quantum characteristics may enable faster charging times, yet questions about the practicality of quantum batteries remain. “Many upcoming quantum technologies will necessitate quantum versions of batteries,” states Dian Tan from Hefei National Research Institute, China. “While significant strides have been made in quantum computing and communication, the energy storage mechanisms in these quantum systems require further investigation.”
Tan and his team constructed the battery using 12 qubits formed from tiny superconducting circuits, controlled by microwaves. Each qubit functioned as a battery cell and interacted with neighboring qubits.
The researchers tested two distinct charging protocols, one mirroring conventional battery charging without quantum interactions, while the other leveraged quantum interactions. They discovered that exploiting these interactions led to an increase in power and a quicker charging capacity.
“Quantum batteries can achieve power output up to twice that of conventional charging methods,” asserts Alan Santos from the Spanish National Research Council. This compatibility with the nearest neighbor interaction of qubits is notable, as this is typical for superconducting quantum computers, making further engineering of beneficial interactions a practical challenge.
James Quach from Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation adds that previous quantum battery experiments have utilized molecules rather than components in current quantum devices. Quach and his team have theorized that quantum batteries may enhance the efficiency and scalability of quantum computers, potentially becoming the power source for future quantum systems.
However, comparing conventional and quantum batteries remains a complex task, notes Dominik Shafranek from Charles University in the Czech Republic. In his opinion, translating the advantages of quantum batteries into practical applications is currently ambiguous.
Kaban Modi from the Singapore University of Technology and Design asserts that while benefits exist for qubits interfacing exclusively with their nearest neighbors, their research indicates these advantages can be negated by real-world factors like noise and sluggish qubit control.
Additionally, the burgeoning requirements of extensive quantum computers may necessitate researching energy transfer within quantum systems, as they might incur significantly higher energy costs compared to traditional computers, Modi emphasizes.
Tan believes that energy storage for quantum technologies, particularly in quantum computers, is a prime candidate for their innovative quantum batteries. Their next goal involves integrating these batteries with qubit-based quantum thermal engines to produce energy for storage within quantum systems.
Artist Representation of Qubits in the Quantum Twins Simulator
Silicon Quantum Computing
A groundbreaking large-scale quantum simulator has the potential to unveil the mechanisms of exotic quantum materials and pave the way for their optimization in future applications.
Quantum computers are set to leverage unique quantum phenomena to perform calculations that are currently unmanageable for even the most advanced classical computers. Similarly, quantum simulators can aid researchers in accurately modeling materials and molecules that remain poorly understood.
This holds particularly true for superconductors, which conduct electricity with remarkable efficiency. The efficiency of superconductors arises from quantum effects, making it feasible to implement their properties directly in quantum simulators, unlike classical devices that necessitate extensive mathematical transformations.
Michelle Simmons and her team at Australia’s Silicon Quantum Computing have successfully developed the largest quantum simulator to date, known as Quantum Twin. “The scale and precision we’ve achieved with these simulators empower us to address intriguing challenges,” Simmons states. “We are pioneering new materials by crafting them atom by atom.”
The researchers designed multiple simulators by embedding phosphorus atoms into silicon chips. Each atom acts as a quantum bit (qubit), the fundamental component of quantum computers and simulators. The team meticulously configured the qubits into grids that replicate the atomic arrangement found in real materials. Each iteration of the Quantum Twin consisted of a square grid containing 15,000 qubits, surpassing any previous quantum simulator in scale. While similar configurations have been built using thousands of cryogenic atoms in the past, Quantum Twin breaks new ground.
By integrating electronic components into each chip via a precise patterning process, the researchers managed to control the electron properties within the chips. This emulates the electron behavior within simulated materials, crucial for understanding electrical flow. Researchers can manipulate the ease of adding an electron at specific grid points or the “hop” between two points.
Simmons noted that while conventional computers struggle with large two-dimensional simulations and complex electron property combinations, the Quantum Twin simulator shows significant potential for these scenarios. The team tested the chip by simulating the transition between conductive and insulating states—a critical mathematical model explaining how impurities in materials influence electrical conductivity. Additionally, they recorded the material’s “Hall coefficient” across different temperatures to assess its behavior in magnetic fields.
With its impressive size and variable control, the Quantum Twins simulator is poised to tackle unconventional superconductors. While conventional superconductors function well at low temperatures or under extreme pressure, some can operate under milder conditions. Achieving a deeper understanding of superconductors at ambient temperature and pressure is essential—knowledge that quantum simulators are expected to furnish in the future.
Moreover, Quantum Twins can also facilitate the investigation of interfaces between various metals and polyacetylene-like molecules, holding promise for advancements in drug development and artificial photosynthesis technologies, Simmons highlights.
Researchers from Korea University are paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective renewable energy generation by utilizing gold nanospheres designed to capture light across the entire solar spectrum.
Hung Lo et al. introduced plasmonic colloidal superballs as a versatile platform for broadband solar energy harvesting. Image credit: Hung Lo et al., doi: 10.1021/acsami.5c23149.
Scientists are exploring novel materials that efficiently absorb light across the solar spectrum to enhance solar energy harvesting.
Gold and silver nanoparticles have been identified as viable options due to their ease of fabrication and cost-effectiveness, yet current nanoparticles primarily absorb visible wavelengths.
To extend absorption into additional wavelengths, including near-infrared light, researcher Seungwoo Lee and colleagues from Korea University propose the innovative use of self-assembled gold superballs.
These unique structures consist of gold nanoparticles aggregating to form small spherical shapes.
The diameter of the superball was meticulously adjusted to optimize absorption of sunlight’s diverse wavelengths.
The research team first employed computer simulations to refine the design of each superball and predict the overall performance of the superball film.
Simulation outcomes indicated that the superball could absorb over 90% of sunlight’s wavelengths.
Next, the scientists created a film of gold superballs by drying a solution containing these structures on a commercially available thermoelectric generator, a device that converts light energy into electricity.
Films were produced under ambient room conditions—no cleanroom or extreme temperatures needed.
In tests using an LED solar simulator, the average solar absorption rate of the superball-coated thermoelectric generator reached approximately 89%, nearly double that of a conventional thermoelectric generator featuring a single gold nanoparticle membrane (45%).
“Our plasmonic superball offers a straightforward method to harness the entire solar spectrum,” said Dr. Lee.
“Ultimately, this coating technology could significantly reduce barriers for high-efficiency solar and photothermal systems in real-world energy applications.”
The team’s research is published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.
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Ro Kyung Hoon et al.. 2026. Plasmonic Supraball for Scalable Broadband Solar Energy Generation. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 18 (1): 2523-2537; doi: 10.1021/acsami.5c23149
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