‘Centaur’ suit adds robotic legs

In Shenzhen, China, researchers have unveiled a bizarre power suit that turns the wearer into a half-human, half-robot centaur. Unlike traditional exoskeletons that support your own limbs, the ‘Centaur’ adds an extra pair of robotic legs attached to the wearer’s back, which move naturally with every step.

The suit uses a flexible, spring-based coupling system that keeps the robot stable while separating its forces from the wearer’s movements. Scientists claim it can reduce the energy needed to walk with a 20 kg load by around 35 per cent, making it more efficient than conventional exoskeletons, which save just 5–12 per cent.

The Centaur lets humans handle navigation while the robot takes on the heavy lifting. Despite the technical feat, public response has been mixed, with critics pointing out potential safety risks, including the danger of falling under a moving robotic centaur.

Man with 42 teeth

A Malaysian man, Prathab Muniandy, has been recognised by Guinness World Records for having 42 teeth — 10 more than the usual 32.

He first noticed something unusual in 2021 when his family counted 38 teeth. Later, X-rays revealed four more yet to emerge, bringing the total to 42 by 2023. His extra teeth have grown normally and do not cause any problems.

Dentists also found two additional teeth that have not erupted yet. The female record is held by Kalpana Balan, who has 38 teeth.

Blindfolded Barbie identification record

A German collector, Bettina Dorfmann, who already holds a Guinness World Records title for the largest Barbie collection, has earned a second record by identifying dolls while blindfolded.

Appearing on a German TV record show, she correctly recognised 19 Barbie dolls in three minutes using only touch. She relied on details like shape, hair and clothing to tell them apart.

Dorfmann first set her collection record in 2005 with 2,500 dolls. It has since grown to 18,500, last counted in 2022.

Cat survives swallowing 26 hair ties

A six-year-old cat named Midnite in Flo­rida underwent life-saving surgery after vets discovered 26 hair ties causing an intestinal blockage.

The cat was taken in by HALO No-Kill Rescue Shelter after being surrendered for euthanasia.

During surgery, veterinarians were shocked to find the large number of hair ties lodged in her stomach.

Midnite is now recovering well and has regained her appetite. Rescue staff warned pet owners to keep small items like hair ties, rubber bands and strings away from animals, as they can be extremely dangerous if swallowed.

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 2nd, 2026