<![CDATA[Caplyta boosts antidepressants in MDD, showing 2–4 week response with minimal weight, metabolic, and EPS risks.]]>
New genetic ancestry data to tackle health inequalities
Our Future Health has released genetic ancestry data from 755,000 participants, enabling researchers to tackle health inequalities.
The Download: cutting AC emissions, and nature’s drug designer
This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology.
These new solid-state ACs promise a cool future. Scientists aren’t so sure.
After three years of record-breaking heat and another scorcher underway, air-conditioning isn’t going anywhere. That’s good for our health, but bad for the planet: it already accounts for 7% of global electricity use and 3% of greenhouse-gas emissions.
Feeling the heat, scientists and startups are hoping to amp up solid-state cooling. These systems move heat through conductive materials, which could cool spaces and surfaces with fewer messy side effects. The catch is whether it can match the efficiency of traditional AC.
Find out how the unconventional coolers aim to dial down AC emissions.
—Sara Kiley Watson
This story is from the next edition of our magazine, which is all about engineering. Subscribe now to get a copy when it lands!
Job titles of the future: nature’s drug designer
In 2018, after nearly two decades working in Big Pharma, chemist Tim Cernak was ready to put his skills to a new use.
As a lifelong nature lover, he had become concerned that animals are often treated with human pharmaceuticals that can be harmful or even lethal. He decided to address this with a new approach: “conservation chemistry.”
Using AI tools and robots, he’s now rapidly designing and testing drugs for animals. Here’s what it takes to treat nature’s patients.
—Anna Gibbs
The must-reads
I’ve combed the internet to find you today’s most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.
1 Anthropic has shut down access to its top models after a US directive
The US barred foreigners from using Fable 5 and Mythos 5 on Friday. (NYT $)
+ Anthropic disabled access globally as it can’t filter users in real time.(BBC)
+ Talks with Amazon’s CEO apparently prompted the ban. (WSJ $)
+ Cybersecurity experts have called for the ban to end. (Axios)
+ But the White House’s war against Anthropic has previously backfired. (MIT Technology Review)
2 The UK is banning social media for under-16s
Details are scant, but the measure is due to take effect in early 2027. (The Guardian)
+ The ban covers Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. (BBC)
+ Many countries are curbing children’s social media access. (Reuters $)
3 New space data suggests black holes formed before galaxies
It could resolve cosmology’s chicken-and-egg dilemma. (New Scientist $)
+ Odd tricks have formed a massive black hole. (MIT Technology Review)
4 Skepticism around AI layoffs is increasing
There are growing doubts that AI is really the culprit. (TechCrunch)
+ We need a reality check on AI jobs hysteria. (MIT Technology Review)
5 A coalition of states has opened an investigation into OpenAI
Over matters including user data, child safety and advertising. (NYT $)
6 Tesla has been accused of misleading regulators over “full self-driving”
By exaggerating its safety statistics. (Reuters $)
7 NASA’s “quiet supersonic” plane has hit critical new milestones
The X-59 reached 924 mph and 55,000 feet. (Scientific American)
+ Which are essential for flying over populated areas. (Engadget)
+ It’s designed to take the boom out of supersonic travel. (BBC)
8 Deepfakes are getting harder to spot—and weirder—in the midterms
Thanks to improvements in free AI tools. (WSJ $)
9 AI is revealing the secret lives of animals
By tracing their movements, landmarks, and social practices. (Nature)
10 Where did Earth get its oceans? Maybe it made them itself.
Scientists now suspect that Earth’s waters are homegrown. (Quanta)
Quote of the day
“This action has taken the best models away from defenders, created market uncertainty, and risked America’s AI leadership without any real risk to justify it.”
—Cybersecurity leaders urge the Trump administration to reverse restrictions on Anthropic’s most advanced AI models in an open letter.
One More Thing
CHRISTIE HEMM KLOK
How scientists want to make you young again
A little over 15 years ago, scientists at Kyoto University made a remarkable discovery. When they added just four proteins to a skin cell and waited about two weeks, some of the cells underwent an unexpected and astounding transformation: they became young again.
Now, after more than a decade of developing this cellular reprogramming, biotech companies and research labs have tantalising hints that the process could be the gateway to an unprecedented new technology for human age reversal.
Read the full story on their efforts to “reprogram” aging bodies back to youth.
—Antonio Regalado
We can still have nice things
A place for comfort, fun, and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line.)
+ Evolutionary biologists may have figured out why the T-Rex had such tiny arms.
+ This beautifully sustainable bento box design is engineered to eliminate single-use takeout waste.
+ Search across 5.8 million museum artworks spanning from 3000 BC to today at The Last Museum.
+ Here’s a sharp cosmic snapshot of Thor’s Helmet, an interstellar gas bubble sitting 15,000 light-years away.
A novel de novo QRICH1 variant causing Ververi–Brady syndrome with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome: clinical and genetic analysis
ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the clinical phenotype and genetic etiology of a case of Ververi–Brady syndrome (VBS) with infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) caused by a novel de novo variant in the QRICH1 gene.MethodsClinical data were retrospectively collected from a pediatric patient admitted to Hunan Children’s Hospital on July 28, 2025, due to intermittent nodding episodes for 10 days. Trio-based whole-exome sequencing (trio-WES) was performed for the proband and his parents. Candidate variants were validated by Sanger sequencing and assessed for pathogenicity. Relevant literature was reviewed to summarize genotype–phenotype correlations.ResultsThe patient, a 5-month-and-22-day-old male infant, presented with facial dysmorphism, global developmental delay, and IESS. After treatment with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and vigabatrin, seizures were fully controlled and developmental outcomes improved. Trio-WES identified a novel heterozygous frameshift variant in the QRICH1 gene (NM_198880.3: c.1282dup, p. Gln428Profs*27), which was de novo and absent in both parents. According to the ACMG/AMP guidelines, this variant was classified as pathogenic (PVS1 + PS2 + PM2_Supporting). A literature review identified 11 relevant articles, encompassing a total of 46 patients (including the present case) with 41 distinct QRICH1 variants: 10 missense, 11 nonsense, 17 frameshift, and 3 splicing mutations. Common clinical features included developmental delay, nonspecific facial dysmorphism, hypotonia, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and scoliosis.ConclusionQRICH1 variants underlie Ververi–Brady syndrome. Here we describe a patient with QRICH1-related Ververi–Brady syndrome presenting with IESS. Combined treatment with ACTH and vigabatrin was followed by seizure freedom, electroencephalographic (EEG) improvement, and developmental gains in this patient. This report expands the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of the disorder.
Spatial transcriptomics on an expanded dataset at the brain-electrode interface: exploration of variability and identification of novel biomarkers
The foreign body reaction to implanted electrodes in the brain has long been recognized as a major challenge impacting the performance and reliability of indwelling neurotechnologies. Spatially resolved transcriptomic approaches have enabled high-resolution mapping of cellular and molecular dynamics at the device-tissue interface, yielding novel insight into both acute and chronic tissue responses. Recent whole-transcriptome profiling methods generate exceptionally dense gene expression datasets from individual samples, offering unprecedented resolution and analytical power. Yet, limited studies have explored aggregated results from larger datasets and sample-to-sample variation within an implanted cohort using such techniques due to high costs and complicated downstream analyses. In this work, we provide a comprehensive report of spatial transcriptomics data collected from an expanded cohort of rats (n = 14 rats) implanted with silicon microelectrode arrays in the motor cortices for 1 week (acute) and 6 weeks (chronic). This larger dataset enabled us to explore the variation in results across samples, assess outliers, and examine potential batch effects. We employed differential expression analysis to identify top differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in spatially defined regions at the device-tissue interface to reveal novel biomarkers in the aggregated dataset. We assessed sample-to-sample variabilities, and applied a factorization strategy to identify prominent cell-type contributors of the top DEGs. Using network-based co-expression analysis, we identified gene modules, hub genes, and central regulatory processes governing the device-tissue interface. Our results show: (a) greater variation of top DEGs across samples at the 1-week time point with notable microglial and astroglial cell-type contributors, (b) lower variation of top DEGs across samples and a shift to prominent astroglial cell-type contributors at the 6-week time point, and (c) novel biomarkers that suggest major macrophage- and microglial mediated processes and homeostasis events at the 1-week time point, and greater tissue remodeling, apoptotic and synaptic changes at the 6-week time point. These findings support previous ideas on the evolving tissue response to implanted devices, and present novel details on biomarkers, biological processes and sample variation. Additionally, this study provides a framework for assessing larger datasets employing high-dimensional spatial transcriptomics and highlight key considerations related to across-sample variability and batch effects.
Sex-divergent intrinsic brain function in Parkinson’s disease: elevated nigral fluctuations and premotor-visuospatial coupling in female patients
IntroductionCortical and subcortical alterations in brain intrinsic function have been widely reported in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, sex differences in brain intrinsic function in PD are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine sex differences in spontaneous brain intrinsic function in PD and their associations with neuropsychological measurements.MethodsUsing Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) resting-state fMRI, we compared amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) between male and female PD patients in substantia nigra (SN), globus pallidus (GP) and whole-brain. Subgroup analysis was performed, matching demographics with equal sample sizes. ALFF correlations with behavior were assessed by sex.ResultsFemale PD patients demonstrated higher ALFF in the right SN compared to males in the primary analysis. This sex difference achieved statistical significance in the demographics-matched subgroup analysis. Bilateral premotor ALFF was significantly elevated in female patients relative to males, independent of brain structure. Furthermore, right premotor ALFF showed a preliminary positive trend associated with visuospatial function exclusively in female PD patients.ConclusionFemale PD patients exhibit distinct functional signatures, primarily involving elevated premotor fluctuations and a preliminary premotor-visuospatial association. Preliminary SN alterations were also noted. These findings highlight the necessity of sex-stratified neuroimaging and provide preliminary support for premotor ALFF as a potential sex-divergent functional signature associated with cognitive profiling in female patients with PD.
Developmental outcomes of young children with an autism diagnosis and its associated clinical correlates
IntroductionAutism spectrum disorder is common in children with increasing prevalence, leading to efforts towards early identification and treatment initiation in young children. We aimed to identify the developmental trajectory of young children with an autism diagnosis and clinical factors associated with better developmental outcomes in a real-world setting.MethodsIn this study, 38 children (mean age 21.9 ± 4.7 months) who were diagnosed at < 2 years of age with autism had developmental evaluations using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning done at baseline and after 1–2 years post diagnosis and intervention initiation.ResultsIn the sample, improvements in T-scores were observed for Receptive Language (mean 26.5 to 32.0, p=0.003) and Expressive Language (mean 26.0 to 30.7, p=0.010) at the group level, while Visual Reception, Fine Motor and overall Early Learning Composite did not change significantly at follow-up. Higher baseline T-scores were consistently associated with better follow-up scores across Fine Motor, Receptive Language, Expressive Language and Early Learning Composite domains. Age at initial presentation was significantly associated with Fine Motor outcomes (β = 1.26, p=0.031) while intervention hours were not independently associated with any developmental domain outcomes in the full sample. Among children with baseline developmental delay, higher intervention hours were associated with better follow-up scores in Receptive as well as Expressive Languages and Visual Reception; this was not seen for the entire sample.ConclusionsOur results support the role of early identification and intervention for autism; however, child-level characteristics influence developmental trajectories beyond intervention hours alone.
Sense of Coherence in patients with stable schizophrenia: multidimensional determinants from a cross-sectional study of 438 inpatients in Guangzhou, China
IntroductionSchizophrenia, a chronic psychiatric disorder, profoundly affects social functioning and quality of life. The Sense of Coherence (SOC), a core construct in salutogenic theory, plays a pivotal role in stress coping and recovery outcomes. While SOC has been studied in general populations, its determinants in stabilized schizophrenia inpatients remain underexplored. This study comprehensively investigated the Sense of Coherence (SOC) profile among stabilized schizophrenia inpatients by assessing its current status, exploring the interrelationships between SOC and demographic factors/Big Five personality traits (CBF-PI)/social support (SSRS), and identifying factors associated with SOC to inform potential personalized resilience-enhancing interventions. Findings may guide clinical strategies to enhance resilience and mental health recovery and potentially facilitate functional recovery in this population.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at a Guangzhou tertiary psychiatric hospital with 438 stabilized schizophrenia inpatients from November 2024 to February 2025. Data collection included demographic/clinical variables, Chinese Big Five Personality Inventory (CBF-PI), 13-item Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-13), and the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data and independent-samples t-tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed to compare SOC scores across demographic and clinical groups. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between personality traits, social support, and sense of coherence and multiple linear regression analysis was utilized to identify independent factors influencing sense of coherence (P < 0.05).ResultThe mean SOC score among the 438 stabilized schizophrenia inpatients was 53.35 ± 11.81. SOC correlated positively with all five dimensions of CBF-PI-B (P < 0.05), as well as subjective social support (P < 0.01), while showing inverse correlations with objective support (p < 0.01) and support utilization subscales (P < 0.01), Multiple regression identified personal income(yes), frequency of physical activity (≥3 times/week), and primary caregiver (Children) as significant SOC predictors.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that stabilized schizophrenia inpatients in a tertiary psychiatric setting exhibit generally lower Sense of Coherence (SOC) levels compared with healthy normative values and moderately lower than several outpatient schizophrenia samples. Higher SOC was significantly associated with having a personal income, frequent physical activity (≥3 times/week), having children as primary caregivers, and Chinese Big Five Personality traits. Notably, while subjective support was positively correlated with SOC, objective support and support utilization showed negative associations. Given the moderate internal consistency of the SSRS (Cronbach’s α = 0.626), the differential associations with social support dimensions should be interpreted cautiously. Concurrently, personality traits are relatively stable, their associations with SOC may inform indirect supportive strategies leveraging existing strengths rather than direct modification. These findings underscore the potential value of tailored interventions that enhance subjective support, promote structured recreational activities, and foster patients’ perceived coping resources. Further cross-sectional and longitudinal outpatient studies are warranted to validate these results and elucidate the mechanisms underlying the support paradox.
Competency-based training and supervision in group problem management plus in the Kurdistan region of Iraq
BackgroundGroup Problem Management Plus (gPM+) is a scalable psychological intervention designed to be delivered by non-specialist mental health workers and has been widely implemented in humanitarian contexts. As part of the ongoing process of integrating refugees into routine national care systems, competency-based training and supervision were implemented in Duhok, within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Twelve participants from the Directorate General of Health (DoH), working in Syrian refugee camps, took part in a seven-day training programme, followed by supportive supervision over a six-month period. The programme aimed to enhance participants’ skills in delivering the group intervention to individuals experiencing psychological distress.MethodsThe training programme consisted of a seven-day (56 hours), structured in-person course combining theoretical input, demonstration, and intensive role-play practice, followed by a six-month supervision (30 hours) phase that included regular group supervision sessions and individual on-site coaching focused on real-life implementation challenges. Individual and group-level competency improvements were assessed using the EQUIP (Ensuring Quality in Psychosocial Support and Mental Health Care) methodology, which provides a structured approach to monitoring and tracking participants’ progress in facilitation and intervention skills, enabling trainers to identify skill gaps and tailor supervision sessions effectively. This was supplemented by qualitative evaluations from both participants and trainers.ResultsParticipants showed notable reductions in harmful behaviours and improvements in competencies. Supervision sessions and role-playing exercises further reinforced learning and skill application. Participants also reported increased confidence, with feedback highlighting the value of problem-solving strategies and coping techniques.ConclusionsEQUIP proved effective in monitoring and guiding improvements among non-specialist staff delivering psychological interventions. The EQUIP platform may serve as a valuable tool for strengthening mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) training and interventions, and for facilitating the integration of programmes developed in humanitarian contexts into routine systems of care in low-resource settings.
Group painting therapy for children and adolescents with bone tumors: a quasi-experimental trial evaluating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic growth, and health-related quality of life
BackgroundChildren and adolescents undergoing treatment for malignant bone tumors frequently experience heightened psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Group painting therapy has been proposed as a supportive non-pharmacological strategy, yet empirical evidence in pediatric oncology remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of an eight-week structured group painting therapy program on anxiety, depression, post-traumatic growth (PTG), and HRQoL in this population.MethodsA quasi-experimental pretest–posttest study was conducted among children and adolescents (aged 8–18 years) with primary malignant bone tumors at Henan Cancer Hospital from December 2023 to December 2024. A total of 76 participants were consecutively enrolled and allocated to an intervention group receiving group painting therapy (n=39) or a control group receiving standard nursing care (n=37) using a nonrandomized ward-based approach. Anxiety, depressive symptoms, PTG, and HRQoL were assessed at baseline and post-intervention using validated instruments, including SCARED, DSRSC, PTGI, and PedsQL™ 3.0 Cancer Module.ResultsCompared with the control group, the intervention group demonstrated greater reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms, along with significant improvements in PTG and selected HRQoL domains. Notable improvements were observed in emotional functioning, social communication, generalized anxiety, somatic symptoms, personal strength, and appreciation of life. No significant between-group differences were observed in physical symptom domains such as pain and nausea.ConclusionsGroup painting therapy was associated with improvements in emotional well-being, PTG, and selected HRQoL domains in children and adolescents with primary bone tumors. These findings suggest that painting therapy may be a promising adjunct to routine pediatric oncology care for promoting resilience and psychological recovery.