I don't know about the meaning of the universe, but I do understand geometry. Every tooth adds 1/2" to the circumference. Therefore each tooth adds roughly 1/3" or 4mm to the diameter, or 2mm to the radius.

Now take a look at the photo, and note that the inner diameter of the chainring rim passes close to the line of the bolt circle, but certainly to within the rim of the bolts. eNow take a look at the inner rim of the ring, and compare it to one pitch. So since a 38t is possible, that means that if this is a 42t you'd have to take 8mm out of that rim. I don't see 8mm there to rob, so I'll bet a case of beer that this was not a 42t.