Happy Monday people
Here in my part of the UK, we enjoyed some welcome warmth and sunshine as we head into darker and colder months. I hope it was equally pleasant wherever you are in the world.
Diving straight in. GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like semaglutide have provided a beacon of hope to folks looking to shrink waistlines, but there are concerns about troubling side effects. Buddying up with a new type of anti-obesity drug is showing promise for side-effect-free treatment.
There's plenty more below. Enjoy!
Highlights
ObesityIllnesses and conditionsBody and Mind
New obesity drug boosts GLP-1 weight loss without added side effects
by Paul McClure
A new class of weight-loss drug has shown it can significantly boost weight loss when paired with GLP-1 therapy – without adding side effects – in a mid-stage clinical trial, pointing to a powerful new combination approach to tackling obesity.
EnergyTechnology
Fusion device fires “super-lightning” pulses 12 times a minute
by David Szondy
Living up to its name, University of Washington spin-off company ZAP Energy's Century system is developing fusion power technology by blasting plasma with super-lightning-like pulses 12 times per minute, without relying on superconducting magnets or laser beams.
Pickup CampersAdventure VehiclesOutdoors
700-lb teardrop-toadstool truck camper starts at just $12,000
by C.C. Weiss
The Grumpy Bear Arctos Sport pickup camper looks like a half a toadstool, or a teardrop trailer body on a pedestal. Its distinctive but simple form fits neatly in the truck and gives buyers a transformable interior for sleeping, eating and relaxing.
Today’s newsletter sponsor
Redefining Minimalism: PITAKA’s Aramid Fiber Revolution
PITAKA reimagines minimalism with the new Glints of Gold iPhone 17 series. Through LightRipple technology, aramid fibers interact with light to create a golden shimmer—an elegant fusion of material science and timeless design.
More Stories
Wellness and Healthy LivingBody and Mind
Singing therapy hits the right note for chronically breathless patients
by Paul McClure
When breathing becomes a daily battle, even the simplest acts can feel exhausting. Now, a new study has found the key to easing chronic breathlessness caused by lung disease: singing.
AutomotiveTransport
Electric UTV combines all-terrain workhorse with low-speed city hauler
by Paul Ridden
Following the launch of a compact low-speed ambulance in July, California's GEM has unveiled an electric utility truck that's designed to haul gear through the neighborhood before heading to wilder work sites.
Consumer TechTechnology
World's first carpet-cleaning robot is an all-in-one "hands-off" workhorse
by Bronwyn Thompson
The Robotin R2 is billed as the world’s first fully autonomous carpet-cleaning robot, combining vacuuming, washing and smart drying in one compact, low-maintenance system. You can get the unit for just US$799 – nearly half its expected retail price.
Aging WellWellness and Healthy LivingBody and Mind
Naked mole-rat DNA repair could unlock natural human longevity
by Bronwyn Thompson
What naked mole-rats lack in the looks department they make up for it in longevity, living healthily for nearly four decades. Now, scientists have found just how they repair their DNA – and it has the potential to be harnessed by humans to do the same.
Special promotion for New Atlas readers
Don’t miss out on savings. A Sam’s Club membership is just $15.
Ready to unlock all the savings that a Sam’s Club membership can offer? Until Oct. 31 at 11:59 p.m. PT, signing up for a membership costs just $15 (MSRP $50).
ADHD & AutismBrain HealthBody and Mind
Adults with ADHD should use this overlooked tactic to boost wellbeing
by Bronwyn Thompson
A first-of-its-kind study has found that recognizing – and using – personal strengths is linked with better physical and psychological wellbeing and fewer mental-health challenges in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
MotorcyclesTransport
The brakes on your next bike might be made of 100% recycled aluminum
by Utkarsh Sood
You don’t become one of the world’s top motorcycle component manufacturers for nothing. Brembo's new 100% recycled aluminum brake calliper reduces brake caliper life cycle emissions by up to 70% without sacrificing performance or design. A clear win-win.
Wellness and Healthy LivingBody and Mind
Calcium supplements found not to raise dementia risk
by Paul McClure
A large study has found that calcium supplements, long recommended for bone health, particularly in older women, don’t increase dementia risk, offering reassurance for the millions who take them to protect against osteoporosis.
GearOutdoors
Collapsible magnetic multi-lamp unfurls into every light you need
by C.C. Weiss
Outask has advanced its pocketable light into a versatile multitool with many uses for home and in the field. The TD2 triples light output inside a multi-axis chassis that makes it a pocket flashlight, table lamp, magnetic work light and more.
Aging WellWellness and Healthy LivingBody and Mind
The social activities that slow down natural aging and ward off disease
by Bronwyn Thompson
Friendships, community ties and family bonds may apply the brakes to cell aging, providing a simple way to invest in health in older age. In a new study, scientists find that social connections are tied to slower biological aging and less inflammation.
Get your next issue ad-free – and support our work: join New Atlas Plus!