Federal Report Criticizes Adolescent Gender Treatment

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Thursday, federal health authorities released a report stating there is no scientific basis for administering hormones or surgical interventions to young individuals experiencing gender dysphoria. This marks a significant shift from prior agency guidelines and the recommendations made by various US health organizations, highlighting concerns surrounding potential long-term harm.

The report emphasizes the importance of psychotherapy, which has sparked considerable debate, as some proponents equate it with conversion therapy aimed at altering gender identity.

Certain sections of the review appeared to challenge the very notion of a gender identity that diverges from one’s sex assigned at birth.

In January, President Trump issued an executive order titled “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Amputations,” directing the Department of Health and Human Services to compile a report within 90 days on optimal treatment approaches for youth indicating a disconnect between their gender identity and their birth sex.

The executive order suggested that the administration had already drawn its conclusions about gender transition treatments for minors, denouncing the “blatant harm done to children” as a “stain on our country’s history.”

The report, spanning 400 pages, adopted a calmer tone yet arrived at a similar verdict. Notably, the report’s author remains unidentified as the post-publication review process is set to commence in “the coming days.”

Officials at HHS declined to comment on the review process, noting contributors included a diverse group of physicians, medical ethicists, and methodologists selected for their commitment to scientific integrity.

Importantly, the report clarified that it is not designed to establish standards for healthcare or formulate policy recommendations.

The findings were primarily based on analyses of scientific studies regarding adolescent blockers, hormone treatments, and surgical interventions conducted over the past few decades as these therapies became accessible to adolescents.

The assessment concluded that while the advantages of medical interventions remain unclear, potential harms, including erosion of birth rates, are deemed less substantial.

“Clinical practice in this area is exceptional and concerning,” the report asserts, pointing to American medical groups that advocate for an intolerant atmosphere where clinicians may feel compelled to self-censor.

The appropriateness of treatments such as adolescent blockers, hormone therapy, or surgery for young individuals remains a subject of vigorous debate.

Recently, several European nations have imposed restrictions on such treatments, with scientific reviews and discussions highlighting the insufficient quality of supporting evidence and uncertainties about long-term risks.

In the United States, 24 states have enacted legislation preventing doctors from offering such treatments to adolescents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics is conducting its own evidence review. The Academy and most significant medical organizations in the US continue to support these treatments as effective in relieving the psychological distress many transgender youth experience.

“This report misrepresents the prevailing healthcare consensus and fails to represent the realities of pediatric care,” stated Dr. Susan Cresley, chair of the Academy. “This document favors opinions over a rational examination of evidence.”

Advocates for transgender rights criticized the report for presenting ideological views disguised as scientific.

During Trump’s initial 100 days in office, his administration aimed to downplay transgender identities in public forums. The measures included cutting funding for hospitals that provide gender transition treatments to individuals under 19 and contemplating barring transgender individuals from military service.

The administration facilitated the transfer of transgender men and women from federal prisons to their homes and ceased recognizing the gender of transgender individuals on their passports.

“Is the administration’s animosity towards this healthcare grounded in genuine scientific insights or ideologically motivated by its disapproval of transgender individuals believing that transgender identity is fabricated?” questioned Shannon Minter, director of legal affairs at the National Center for Lesbian Rights.

The Center represents transgender plaintiffs in multiple lawsuits contesting the administration’s policies’ constitutionality.

“This is an ideological declaration, not a medical one,” stated Casey Pick, director of law and policy at the Trevor Project, an organization focused on suicide prevention among LGBTQ youth.

This report signifies a triumph for individuals who categorize this medical field within a broader agenda to deny the reality of biological gender.

Roger Severino, vice president of domestic policy at the Heritage Foundation, commended the HHS report while condemning “profit-driven physicians and ideological groups” for convincing families that “children’s sex aligns with everything they profess.”

According to government statistics, around 3% of high school students identify as transgender, a significant surge over the last decade. However, a much smaller percentage of these adolescents seek medical interventions.

Despite this, the topic of medical transition for minors has turned into a political battleground, with Trump making it a focal point of his campaign while some Democrats believe this strategy may aid his electoral prospects.

The new HHS report extends beyond similar assessments in Europe, which have initiated new limitations on gender-related treatments for adolescents.

Independent Clinical Services Reviews for UK youth reached a comparable conclusion, led by Dr. Hillary Cass, former president of the Royal College of Pediatrics. It noted the insufficient quality of evidence supporting the use of adolescent blockers and hormone treatments for minors, with surgery being unavailable to minors in the UK.

However, this review, conducted over four years, painted a broader picture of the medical landscape by consulting young patients, transgender adults, parents, and clinicians.

Dr. Kass concluded that evidence regarding the benefits and risks associated with treatment is “significantly weak,” but acknowledged that some young individuals are very likely to benefit from early interventions.

“Certain young people will undoubtedly reap the benefits of the medical pathway. As research evolves, we need to ensure that those individuals can access care under research protocols, but we mustn’t assume this is the right path for everyone,” Dr. Cass expressed in an interview last year.

This review concluded that the use of blockers in England should be restricted and that clinicians are encouraged to prescribe hormones to teenagers only with “extreme caution.”

Other clinicians who have expressed concern about the field of adolescent gender medicine are unclear about how the new report will be applied.

“We are pleased that in recent years US authorities are finally considering what is happening in Europe,” remarked Erica Anderson, a child psychologist and former president of the American Transgender Health Association.

She is outspoken about her concerns that adolescent gender clinics are shifting away from thorough mental health evaluations in light of the growing number of children seeking gender treatment.

However, Dr. Anderson supports the need for early intervention for certain young people, despite the inflammatory presidential order leading to the report.

“It’s akin to calling someone out on their rank and then expecting to engage in a meaningful conversation,” she stated. “This approach doesn’t work well with real individuals, who possess emotions and histories.”

Minter from the National Center for Lesbian Rights argued that by emphasizing psychotherapy over medical interventions, the HHS report effectively endorses conversion therapy aimed at altering minors’ gender identity or sexual orientation.

Various medical associations support prohibiting the practice, citing evidence that it leads to depression, anxiety, and feelings of self-loathing.

However, the Supreme Court has agreed to review a First Amendment challenge concerning Colorado’s conversion therapy regulations, initiated by a licensed professional counselor who contends that “individuals prosper when they align with God’s design, including their biological sex.”

Other therapists, including Dr. Anderson, advocate for what they term “exploratory therapy” which assists supportive clinicians in addressing mental health challenges related to adolescents’ gender identity.

Kellan Baker, a researcher focusing on transgender health policies at Whitman-Walker, a Washington-based nonprofit health center, remarked that the report signifies a divergence from customary health policy development in the US.

“It’s crucial that healthcare is administered by individuals with specialized knowledge, not dictated by the federal government, but by skilled clinicians operating according to the standards set by their respective healthcare fields,” Dr. Baker stated.

He voiced concerns that the report could be utilized by the government as a pretext for denying medical coverage for transgender youth.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a branch of HHS, issued a letter last month directing Medicaid agencies to refrain from using funds for gender transition care for minors.

Attorney General Pam Bondy instructed the Department of Justice to investigate doctors who provide such care, stating, “This document does not represent standard care and will likely be cited by the government as grounds for denying medical care coverage for transgender youth.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

What Does the Australian Election Outcome Mean for Climate Policy in a Major Coal Economy?

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Few voters can impact climate change as significantly as Australians.

In terms of per capita greenhouse gas emissions, only the US and Canada closely approach Australia. The nation stands as one of the largest exporters of fossil fuels contributing to global warming, notably sending vast quantities of natural gas to Asian countries alongside some of the most polluting fossil fuels.

As the country prepares for national elections on Saturday, polls indicate that climate change is not a primary concern for many voters. However, the leading candidates from the Labour Party and the Free State Union present starkly different approaches to climate and energy policy.

Central to the discussion is the dependence on the aging coal plants that generate electricity for the country.

“We’ve witnessed a lot of global experiences,” noted Andrew McIntosh, professor of environmental law and policy at Australian National University. “One perspective emphasizes workforce requirements and the need for increasing renewables, while the alternative espouses a conservative coalition favoring nuclear energy.”

Both strategies could lead to reduced emissions, according to McIntosh, though many are puzzled by the nuclear program. Constructing nuclear power plants can take over a decade, whereas renewable energy sources can be implemented within months.

“We need to rely on coal for the foreseeable future,” he added.

In some ways, analysts reflect a polarized debate akin to that in the US, where former President Donald J. Trump dismissed climate science and branded efforts to clean energy as a hoax. Matt McDonald, a political scientist specializing in climate issues at the University of Queensland, stated:

“However, rather than making Australians more apprehensive about climate change, Trump’s rhetoric has not gained significant traction internationally, effectively cooling the debates on both sides,” remarked Dr. McDonald.

For Australians feeling the pressure, it largely stems from rising energy costs for households. Australian energy regulators report that average energy prices have surged by approximately 60% over the past decade.

Incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who leads the Labour Party, has proposed an ambitious target for renewable energy, aiming for over 80% generation by 2030.

“But,” Dr. McDonald pointed out, “we have substantial coal reserves as well.”

Albanese’s main rival, Peter Dutton, at the helm of a liberal coalition, advocates for increased domestic gas production to support electricity generation. While gas is a fossil fuel, it is considerably less polluting than coal. Dutton proposes that gas producers be mandated to supply a portion of their output to Australian power grids, while also expediting the approval process for new drilling projects.

Generally, both parties are proponents of gas development, with Australia being the world’s second-largest gas exporter after the US.

With polls indicating a tight race, the Green Party and the so-called Teal Independents, both strong advocates for robust climate policies, could potentially influence Congress significantly. “If they retain their seats, they’ll be poised to push harder on climate initiatives—like decreasing coal exports,” Dr. McDonald noted.

An additional point of contention globally is whether Australia will be the host for the upcoming United Nations-sponsored Global Climate Conference next year, commonly referred to as COP. Currently, Australia is vying with Türkiye for the hosting rights, an opportunity carrying geopolitical significance and economic advantages by welcoming tens of thousands of representatives.

Hosting nations often establish the dialogue tone for consultation ambitions, and Prime Minister Albanese’s government has been actively lobbying other countries for over a year to support Australia’s bid. “If the coalition wins, this opportunity will certainly vanish,” Dr. McDonald asserted.

Source: www.nytimes.com

NASA Astronauts Venture Outside the Space Station for Fifth All-Female Spacewalk

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The astronaut missed during the first all-female spaceship due to a sizing issue with the space suits. Six years later, I finally got my chance on Thursday.

NASA’s Anne McClain ventured out from the International Space Station alongside Nichole Ayers. Both are military officers and pilots who returned instead of going to the Orbit Lab in March with two other astronauts. Now, I’m back home.

Just before floating out, McClain spotted a loose string on the index finger of her right glove. Mission Control briefly postponed the launch to ensure her glove was secure.

During the mission, the duo prepared the space station for a new solar panel and adjusted the antenna at the 260-mile-high complex.

On Wednesday evening, the space station needed to be elevated slightly to avoid debris: remnants of a 20-year-old Chinese rocket.

McClain, an army colonel and helicopter pilot, was originally set to participate in the first all-female spacewalk in 2019, but the medium-sized suit was insufficient. The historic mission was accomplished by Christina Koch and Jessica Meir. This latest outing marks the fifth time a woman has gone outside the spacecraft in a 60-year history.

NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers prepare for launch at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 14.
Craig Bailey / USA Today Network

Koch is set to become the first woman to fly to the moon. Along with three male astronauts, she will orbit the moon without landing next year as part of NASA’s Artemis program, the successor to Apollo.

Currently, men continue to outnumber women in NASA’s astronaut corps.

Out of NASA’s 47 active astronauts, 20 are women. Among the seven astronauts now aboard the space station, McClain and Ayers are the only females. This marks Ayers’ first mission, while McClain is on her third.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Amazon’s Mixed Revenue Report Causes Stock Prices to Decline

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While Amazon aimed to highlight President Trump’s trade war, it was an unavoidable challenge for the leading online retailer in the U.S.

Initially, the e-commerce giant found itself amid a brief controversy on Tuesday, intertwined with misleading reports suggesting that Amazon revealed customs costs to shoppers.

Just two days later, economic realities hit when Amazon announced its slowest growth in North American retail history.

The company’s largest region contributed to first-quarter financial results, reflecting sluggish sales growth since the peak of the pandemic. Sales from January to March climbed to $155.7 billion, representing a 9% increase from the same period last year. Profits surged 64% to reach $17.1 billion.

For the quarter ending in June, Amazon has advised investors to anticipate revenues between $159 billion and $164 billion, with operating profits expected to decline to $13 billion. The company has included “tariffs and trade policies” as factors contributing to uncertainty in their forecasts.

The results were mixed in comparison to Wall Street expectations, leading to a more than 3% decline in Amazon’s stock during after-hours trading following the earnings release.

“None of us can predict precisely where the tariffs will land or when they will take effect,” stated Amazon CEO Andy Jassy during an investor call. He emphasized the company’s strong focus on reducing prices by procuring additional stock before tariffs are implemented, aiding sellers on Amazon’s platform to do the same.

Investors are analyzing how unforeseen tariffs, not addressed by President Trump, will impact Amazon’s customers. Some speculate that consumer purchases might have accelerated in March and April to avoid impending tariffs, leading to increased spending in otherwise unstable conditions.

Jassy noted that Amazon customers had made “advanced purchases” of certain product types but did not specify which ones.

Various elements contribute to Amazon’s retail revenue. Online product sales directly to consumers increased by 5% to $57.4 billion, while services provided to sellers on the platform grew by 6% to $36.5 billion.

Advertising, viewed by investors as a burgeoning and lucrative sector, rose 18% to $13.9 billion.

Investors have consistently focused on Amazon’s cloud computing division, which generates the majority of the company’s profits. Jassy, who previously led the cloud business before becoming CEO, is expanding the company’s artificial intelligence capabilities. The cloud sector grew by 17% in the first quarter, totaling $29.3 billion.

Jassy remarked that if Amazon had more capacity in its data centers, it could have offered even more cloud services. He mentioned the construction of a new facility equipped with advanced internet and AI-powered technology to alleviate constraints in the coming months. The company is striving to enhance its infrastructure, having reported more than $24 billion in spending during the first three months of the year, which is about $2 billion less than the previous quarter. In February, Amazon announced plans to invest around $100 billion in capital expenditures by 2025.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Ronan the Sea Lion: Keeping Time Better Than Humans

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ronan, the sea lion, continues to keep the rhythm even after all these years.

She can create grooves with rocks and electronic music. However, her talent truly shines as she bobs along to classic hits like “Boogie Wonderland.”

“She’s absolutely nailing it,” said Peter Cook, a behavioral neuroscientist at the University of Florida, who has dedicated a decade to studying Ronan’s rhythmic talents, observing her shake her head in sync with tempo changes.

While many animals lack the ability to recognize the beat, humans, parrots, and some primates can. Ronan, however, is prompting scientists to reconsider what music means.

Rescued years ago, she rocketed to fame about a decade ago when researchers highlighted her musical abilities. Since she was three, she has called the Ocean Institute at the University of California, Santa Cruz her home, where she has assisted researchers, including Cook, in recognizing rhythms.

Ronan is part of a group of remarkable animals, including cockatoos, challenging the long-held belief that only humans excel in responding to music and identifying beats.

Notably, Ronan learned to dance to the beat without needing to learn how to sing or produce music.

“Previously, it was thought that only vocal learners, like humans and parrots, could discern beats,” noted Hugo Merchant, a researcher at the Institute of Neurobiology in Mexico.

However, after Ronan became a star, questions emerged regarding her sustained abilities. Was her previous acclaim a fluke? Could she even outperform humans in maintaining the beat?

A chef and fellow researchers devised a plan to tackle this question. Their findings, detailed in new research published in the journal Scientific Reports, confirm that Ronan remains a star.

This time, researchers focused on lab tempos using percussion instruments, rather than recorded music. During the study, Ronan shook her head to three distinct tempos: 112, 120, and 128 beats per minute. These tempos were unfamiliar to her, enabling scientists to test her adaptability to new rhythms.

Ten university students participated in a similar task, showcasing their abilities as well.

Ronan emerged as the top performer.

“No one outperformed Ronan across the various tests for beat keeping,” Cook shared, adding, “she’s significantly improved since childhood.”

Hencan Horning, a music cognition researcher at the University of Amsterdam and not involved in the study, stated that the findings reinforce Ronan’s status as one of the leading examples of animal musicality.

Researchers plan to train and evaluate other sea lions. Cook believes others might also have beat-keeping abilities, but Ronan remains a standout star performer.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Introducing the New England Team Dedicated to Seal Conservation

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Block Island, Rhode Island – The enigmatic aquarium animal rescue team is busier than ever.

With binoculars in hand, Program Manager Sarah Curran surveys the coastline, facing an increasing problem on Block Island.

When fishing gear, litter, or balloons entangle a gray seal’s neck, these marine mammals, which can weigh over 800 pounds, may suffer serious injuries or even death as the restraints tighten.

Thus far this year, Connecticut nonprofits have reported 20 tangled gray seals, surpassing the usual count recorded by Mystic each year.

Curran affectionately dubbed one of the seals “anxiety.”

Intertwined stickers.
Mysterious aquarium

NBC News has been granted rare access to follow Mystic’s collaboration with the Atlantic Marine Conservation Association and the Brock Island Maritime Institute, which recently formed.

Curran and her team navigated around a group of seal pups basking at the water’s edge. They skillfully separated the entangled pups and dashed on bright red boards to capture them with precision and speed.

Once a pup was secured, the team worked quickly to attach a tracker for research and freed it from the fishing net constricting its neck.

“We can release stickers today and avoid the need to transport them to the clinic for rehabilitation,” said Curran, who leads the effort. “The sooner you can intervene, the better the chances of recovery.”

This team previously photographed a seal pup stuck with a plastic object in downtown New Haven, Connecticut, in February. The pup, with its big eyes and gentle whine, captured the public’s heart and even received the name “Chappy” through a voting contest.

Unfortunately, Chappy’s story didn’t have a happy ending. In a statement online, Mystic reported that pieces of plastic were found in his stomach, highlighting the dangers that marine debris, particularly plastic, poses to marine life.

Some estimates indicate that plastic pollution claims the lives of over 100,000 marine mammals annually.

“The number of animals interacting with human debris in their early months of life is quite alarming,” Curran stated.

In this ongoing battle, Mystic remains undeterred.

The team celebrated as the seals returned to the sea, now freed from the constraining nets.

“It’s a special moment to give these animals a second chance at life,” Curran remarked. “It’s truly rewarding to witness.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Soviet-era Spacecraft Poised to Re-enter Earth After Half a Century of Failed Venus Mission

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A Soviet-era spaceship aims to land on Venus, with plans for it to return to Earth in the near future.

Currently, it is uncertain where the mass of half-ton metal will descend and how much will survive the journey. Experts are monitoring space debris.

Dutch scientist Marco Langbroek estimates that the spacecraft may re-enter Earth’s atmosphere around May 10th.

“There are risks involved, but there’s no need for excessive concern,” Langbroek stated in an email.

The object is relatively small, and even if it remains intact, the likelihood of it causing damage is similar to that of encountering a random meteorite fall, which occurs annually. “The chance of being struck by lightning in your lifetime is far greater,” he added.

He also mentioned that the spacecraft could potentially impact someone or something; however, this scenario cannot be entirely dismissed.

The Soviet Union sent the spacecraft, known as Cosmos 482, into orbit in 1972 as part of its Venus mission series. It never successfully launched from Earth orbit due to a rocket malfunction.

Most of its counterparts fell back within a decade, yet Langbroek and others believe the landing capsule, a spherical object about three feet (1 meter) in diameter, has been in a highly elliptical orbit for the past 53 years, gradually descending.

There is a substantial possibility that the over 1,000-pound (approximately 500 kilograms) spacecraft could endure re-entry. It was designed to withstand the harsh conditions of Venus’ atmosphere, which is thick with carbon dioxide, according to Langbroek from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.

Experts are skeptical about the longevity of its parachute system. Additionally, heat shields might have deteriorated over extended periods in orbit.

Jonathan McDowell of the Harvard Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory mentioned in an email that while the spacecraft would benefit from an intact heat shield, if it manages to re-enter successfully, “a half-ton metal object will be falling from the sky.”

The spacecraft is projected to re-enter around 51.7°N and 51.7°S, passing near London, Edmonton, Alberta, and Cape Horn, South America. However, given that much of the Earth is covered by water, “the chances are favorable.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Apple Beats Wall Street Projections with $24.78 Billion Profit

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Apple has built its reputation on innovation, but recently, it has leaned more towards diplomatic solutions.

Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, recently secured a tariff exemption for exporting iPhones manufactured in China. This strategic move allowed Apple to focus on business and maintain a strong position.

It facilitated the company’s launch of new budget-friendly iPhones in February, alongside boosting app and service sales. Apple stated that quarterly profits increased by 4.8% from last year, totaling $24.78 billion. Meanwhile, company sales rose 5% to $953.6 billion.

These results surpassed Wall Street Analysts’ expectations of $24.37 billion in profits and $943.5 billion in sales. However, stocks fell by more than 2% in after-hours trading.

Apple’s consistent performance emerged amidst various challenges. Within months, the company faced both internal and external struggles, including setbacks with its highly anticipated artificial intelligence system and the tough tariff policies enforced by the Trump administration on overseas products.

Last month, Apple’s stock took a dive following President Trump’s announcement of a 145% tariff on exports from China, where 80% of iPhones are produced. This measure also affected other countries that manufacture iPads and Macs, such as Vietnam, resulting in a loss of approximately $770 billion in market value over four days.

Wall Street analysts anticipate that Apple may need to raise the iPhone price from $1,000 to $1,600. In response, some customers rushed to purchase iPhones before the potential price hike, leading to a temporary sales boost.

However, three months after donating $1 million to Trump’s inauguration, Tim Cook sought to persuade the White House to ease the tariff restrictions.

Last Thursday, Apple reported that iPhone sales, its primary revenue source, increased by 2% to $46.84 1 billion compared to the previous quarter. There was over a 10% rise in iPhone sales in Japan, India, and the Middle East, leading Apple to secure the largest share of smartphone sales globally in three months, according to Counterpoint Research.

Nevertheless, the company continues to struggle in China, posting a sales decline for the sixth consecutive quarter, with total revenue from the region at $16 billion, down 2% year-over-year.

“We are eager to see the developments at the company’s high-tech research firm,” said Ben Bajarin, principal analyst at Creative Strategies. “The question remains, what if additional tariffs are implemented?”

The company’s services division, which includes app sales, Apple Music, and Apple Pay, has outperformed device sales, generating $26.65 billion in revenue, reflecting an 11.6% increase from the previous year.

However, the future stability of Apple’s services division is in question. Recently, a federal judge criticized the company’s business practices under antitrust laws, ruling that Apple could not impose a 27% fee on selling apps outside its app store, undermining a key revenue stream.

In another antitrust matter, Apple risks losing the $2 billion in service revenue derived from Google’s payment for being the default search engine on iPhone web browsers. A federal ruling last year determined that Google maintained an illegal search monopoly, with hearings planned to address these activities.

The device division also faces uncertainties. Last year, Apple unveiled a generational AI system aimed at enhancing email, summarizing notifications, and upgrading Siri, its virtual assistant. This system was marketed as a primary reason to purchase a new iPhone. However, in March, the company announced it would be delayed until this fall.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Cells Can Be Divided in Unforeseen Ways

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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                <img class="Image" alt="" width="1350" height="900" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=500 500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=600 600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=700 700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=800 800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=837 837w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=900 900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1003 1003w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1100 1100w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1200 1200w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1300 1300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1400 1400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1500 1500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1600 1600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1674 1674w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1700 1700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1800 1800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=1900 1900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01181823/SEI_249575190.jpg?width=2006 2006w" loading="eager" fetchpriority="high" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2478846" data-caption="The division of human cells may not exactly align with what’s written in textbooks" data-credit="Iokanan VFX Studios/Shutterstock"/>
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                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Inaccuracies in Textbook Descriptions of Human Cell Division</p>
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Iokanan VFX Studios/Shutterstock</p>
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    <p>Researchers have identified a unique type of cell division that enables cells to store information in a way that determines the identity of their offspring. This discovery is key to advancing tissue engineering techniques and deepening our comprehension of cancer progression.</p>
    <p>Traditionally, it was believed that the majority of cells would curl into a spherical shape prior to division, allowing for an even distribution of contents between the "daughter" cells and ensuring they remain of the same type.</p>
    <p>However, stem cells represent an exception, as they can undergo heterogeneous or asymmetric cell division, yielding two distinct types of cells.</p>
    <p>In a surprising find, <a href="https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/shane.herbert">Schoen Herbert</a> from The University of Manchester, along with his team, observed that non-stem cells in developing zebrafish blood vessels also divide asymmetrically. These endothelial cells migrated to form new vessel branches and divided without adopting a spherical shape, resulting in different cell types.</p>
    <p>By altering the shape of human endothelial cells in laboratory conditions, the team established that a cell's geometry can predict the symmetry of its division. Longer, more slender cells were more likely to divide asymmetrically, indicating that the division process can be influenced by the cell's shape.</p>
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    <p>Herbert illustrated that cells do not lose their structural and behavioral information during this process, suggesting they maintain their form, thereby preserving their "memory." "Often, they retain their shape, enabling them to convey this memory," he stated.</p>
    <p>This phenomenon allows for a simultaneous movement, division, and production of various cell types without disrupting the ongoing cellular processes. Such flexibility supports rapid adjustments to developmental needs, like supplying tissues necessary for expanding blood vessels and nerves.</p>
    <p>The implications of this discovery extend to lab-grown tissues, where generating functional blood vessels is a significant hurdle. "Our challenge is to create a specific environment that allows these cells to achieve the shapes and behaviors necessary for forming functional blood vessels," explains team member <a href="https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/holly.lovegrove">Holly Lovegrove</a> from the University of Manchester. Adjusting cell shapes could pave the way for producing specific cell types, she suggests. Conversely, cancer can spread through the formation of clusters of migrating cells, with these new insights potentially shedding light on that process.</p>
    <p>This research exemplifies how organisms can fine-tune mechanisms like cell rounding to accomplish multiple tasks critical for tissue development. <a href="https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/group-leaders/a-to-g/buzz-baum/">Buzz Baum</a> from the MRC Institute of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, remarked, "This is a clever method to retain essential information while facilitating network growth by generating more cells."</p>
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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Dubai Conference to Address Trump’s Controversies

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Addressing a bustling auditorium in Dubai, the founder of the Trump family’s cryptocurrency venture made an impactful announcement on Thursday. The Abu Dhabi-supported fund disclosed plans to utilize Trump company’s digital coins for $2 billion in business dealings.

This agreement marks a significant investment from foreign governments into President Trump’s private enterprise, aiming to generate substantial income for the Trump family. It also serves as a striking example of the ethical dilemmas surrounding Trump’s crypto business, blurring the lines between governmental and business interests.

Zach Witkoff, founder of World Liberty Financial, the Trump’s crypto firm, announced that the innovative Stablecoin created by the company will facilitate a transaction involving the globe’s largest crypto exchange, the state-backed Emirati investment firm MGX, and Binance.

Almost every aspect of Witkoff’s announcement, presented during a conference committee alongside Trump’s second son, Erdest, highlighted an inherent conflict of interest.

As MGX engages with World Freedom’s USD1 Stablecoin, Trump’s family business leads the way in collaboration with foreign government-backed ventures. This agreement establishes a formal connection between World Freedom and Binance, a platform under US scrutiny since 2023 due to previous money laundering violations.

The glamorous announcement served as a beacon for crypto investors worldwide, showcasing the potential for partnership with a firm associated with President Trump, who is recognized as a leading advocate for global Liberty.

“We appreciate MGX and Binance for their confidence in us,” stated Witkoff, whose family has ties to a Middle Eastern White House envoy. “This is just the beginning.”

Witkoff and Eric Trump participated in a panel at Token2049, a prominent crypto conference occurring in the UAE. This event is part of Witkoff’s ongoing international tour, having visited Pakistan the previous month to engage with the Prime Minister and other officials. Eric Trump has been in Dubai for a week, revealing plans to promote Trump-branded hotels and towers.

In two weeks, the president will embark on a state visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

The panel featuring Witkoff and Eric Trump was the highlight of the Dubai conference. The venue, a luxurious resort along the Persian Gulf, was packed with crypto investors from around the globe.

“This country is incredible,” Witkoff remarked from the stage. “Today, it stands as one of the most, if not the most, innovative nations on the planet.”

Representatives from Binance, MGX, and World Liberty did not respond to requests for comments.

President Trump, who previously expressed skepticism towards cryptocurrencies, embraced digital currencies during his campaign as the industry invested tens of millions into the 2024 election. Last September, he and his sons introduced the concept of World Freedom as a new internet banking platform facilitating borrowing and lending using cryptocurrencies.

Since then, World Liberty has sold $550 million worth of the new cryptocurrency, known as $WLFI, allocating significant revenue to business entities linked to the Trump family. Moreover, the company launched Stablecoin in March, designed to maintain a consistent dollar value, making it favorable for large transactions.

The transactions conducted by the company have created an unprecedented conflict of interest in modern American history. Some investors purchasing $WLFI coins are foreigners prohibited from supporting the president through campaign contributions or donations. Furthermore, many corporate partners have strong incentives to seek favors from the federal government as they plan to expand within the US market.

The panelist lineup at the Dubai event underscores the ambiguity surrounding the Trump family’s business interests relative to US policy and regulations.

Joining Witkoff and Eric Trump on stage was Justin Sun, one of the leading Liberty investors and a Chinese-born billionaire behind the crypto platform Tron. Sun acquired $75 million in $WLFI coins following the election.

Approximately a year ago, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a lawsuit against Sun, alleging he manipulated Tron cryptocurrency prices. When Trump assumed office, the SEC requested federal judges to pause the lawsuit while negotiating a settlement.

“I’ve come to value your support,” Justin remarked. “Tron is remarkable technology, and we are fortunate to partner with you.”

Witkoff soon made a significant announcement during the panel.

In March, Binance revealed that MGX, an investment fund backed by the Abu Dhabi government, would utilize Stablecoins for a $2 billion investment in exchange, although the specific Stablecoin to be employed was not disclosed.

Witkoff confirmed that the chosen coin for the transaction is World Liberty USD1.

“Wow,” Sun responded.

The leaders of MGX and Binance maintain significant stakes with US officials.

MGX is headed by Sheikh Tanoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the Emirati Royal Family, who also serves as the national security adviser. In March, Sheikh Tanoon visited the United States for discussions with President Trump and various Cabinet members and advisors.

In 2023, Binance acknowledged guilt regarding violations of US money laundering laws, enabling criminals to conduct trades on its platform. As part of a settlement with the Department of Justice and other federal agencies, the company fell under the supervision of the Department of Treasury to ensure legal compliance.

In recent months, Binance’s founder, Changpeng Zhao, has pleaded guilty to money laundering offenses and sought clemency from the Trump administration after spending four months incarcerated.

The role of USD1 in the Binance-MGX deal significantly underpins the World’s Freedom.

Stablecoin issuers like World Liberty generate income by accepting deposits from investors, issuing Stablecoins in return, and investing those deposits to produce yields.

While the precise nature of the arrangement between MGX and Binance remains unclear, it appears World Liberty currently holds $2 billion in deposits. This alone could yield tens of millions in annual income for the Trump family and their World Liberty associates.

Ultimately, Witkoff expressed optimism from the Dubai stage, anticipating that the World’s Liberty Stablecoin would escalate further, reaching “billions in market capitalization.”

One day, he envisioned that visitors to the UAE might utilize USD1 coins for payments at Abu Dhabi’s Four Seasons.

At that moment, Eric Trump interjected.

“I’m not stepping into the Four Seasons with USD1,” he remarked. “You’ll find me at the Trump International Hotel and Tower.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Why Do Many AI Companies’ Logos Resemble Batoll?

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback presents the latest updates in science and technology from New Scientist. We encourage you to email Feedback@newscientist.com with intriguing items you think our readers would enjoy.

Is It Really a Flower?

In recent years, the landscape of AI companies has exploded, leading to a mix of excitement and surprise (depending on your early stock investments). However, this influx has also resulted in a surge of nearly identical logos among these companies.

A fascinating observation made by multiple publications is the prevalence of similar designs in these logos. Sociologist James I. Bowie writes for Fast Company about how the trend has shifted towards “stylized hexagons” with an implicit rotation. He notes that these designs evoke a “portal to a mysterious new world,” suggestive of “the expansion of Yetian Gaia,” and humorously, “toilet flushing.”

On a similar note, Radek Sienkiewicz, a developer at VelvetShark, observed that most of these logos share common features: circular shapes, a focal point at the center, radiating elements, and soft organic curves. He refers to this phenomenon as an “apt explanation” for its resemblance to a “butthole“.

Feedback analyzed logos for companies like OpenAI, Apple Intelligence, and Claude, and noted their resemblance to anatomical features more than you might expect. Exceptions like DeepSeek and Midjourney, whose logos depict a whale and a yacht, stand out, but they may soon succumb to the trend of circular designs.

What’s behind the proliferation of stylized hexagons? Perhaps they symbolize the recursive nature of thought, reflecting AI’s capacity to enhance our comprehension of the world.

However, OpenAI offers a different perspective. Their branding guidelines describe their company logo as a “flower,” designed deliberately to avoid any interpretations associated with openings. The logo symbolizes the dynamic interplay between humanity and technology, merging the fluidity of human-centric design through circles with the precision needed for technological structures, allowing for creative freedom.

Personally, Feedback proposes a working hypothesis regarding these logos, invoking the concept of “GroupThink.”

The Challenging Second Album

One of my favored areas of inquiry is the notion that “it’s a common understanding, yet there’s an obvious counterargument that people are either aware of or not.” Thus, we found it pertinent to explore Musical Psychology, focusing on the “Second Album Slump,” where musicians’ sophomore albums often fail to measure up to their debut releases.

This research was originally published last November, highlighting these trends. As noted by science writer Philip Ball on Bluesky in April, and here we are in May finally addressing this topic. Feedback is nothing if not timely.

The study claims it is “the first comprehensive multistudy analysis aimed at discerning the existence of a second-album slump.” The authors analyzed over 2,000 reviews and feedback from more than 4,000 fans. The results indicated a decline in album quality ratings throughout artists’ careers, with significant dips noted in critic reviews during the second album phase.

This raises discussions surrounding the causes: Is it cognitive bias at play? Or is there a “return to the mean”? A standout debut album is an anomaly that garners disproportionate attention, yet subsequent efforts typically don’t replicate that success due to random chance. Furthermore, this notion can be traced back, as Elvis Costello noted as early as 1981: “I had 20 years to write my first album and six months to pen my second.”

It’s important to note that the second-album slump is merely a statistical trend. Numerous artists have released second albums that surpass their debuts, such as Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Nirvana—alongside Beastie Boys, Pixies, and Taylor Swift. There’s a broader response to Ball’s observations.

Moreover, Feedback wonders whether this second-album phenomenon is confined to rock and pop genres, or if it similarly affects less mainstream styles. Are composers of acid jazz and ambient music also facing second-album challenges? If so, how can we recognize this?

Unusual Smuggling

Executive Editor Timothy Level recently flagged an intriguing report from Reuters regarding a smuggling plot on April 15th.The article describes how four smugglers were apprehended attempting to traffic thousands of live ants from Kenya, including the giant African harvester ant (Messor cephalotes). This species has garnered significant interest among ant enthusiasts, with a single queen fetching nearly £100.

While serious, Tim wanted to highlight a particular detail: the article mentions the “source of the ant trade” concerning the necessary documentation for the legal export of M. cephalotes from Kenya. The trade is described as a “small world,” and thus this individual was “requested not to be named.”

Have thoughts to share with Feedback?

You can email stories to feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week and previous editions of Feedback can also be found on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Top New Sci-Fi of May 2025 Includes an Uplifting Dining Tale by Gracechan

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Bora Chong’s Red Sword is set on a planet of conflict

Liu Zishan/Shutterstock

Although there are no blockbuster science fiction releases for May, several remarkable titles stand out. All Versions of Yours is a book I want everyone to read. This month also features two intriguing sci-fi thrillers by Adam Oevani and Burnaby Martin, but it’s Catherine Chidsey’s eerie Guilt that has captivated me enough to consider it my next read—unless I get sidetracked by a narrative of warfare on an alien planet inspired by the true history of Boracheon, Red Sword.

Set in Australia during the late 21st century, this novel (originally released in Australia in 2022 but now gaining broader distribution) tells the tale of Taoi, who lives in a world where most people immerse themselves in a virtual reality called Gaia. Each day, she enters Gaia from her apartment pod to work. The real world is a grim place riddled with relentless heat, devoid of trees and wildlife. This chilling future vision prompts her partner Navin to consider uploading himself to Gaia permanently, seeking an escape as his physical body deteriorates. Taoi, however, is conflicted. This is currently my favorite read—an engaging, thought-provoking sci-fi narrative that lingers in my mind. Watch out, New Scientist Book Club: this might be a selection for us later this year!

I enjoy speculative thrillers, and this one examines the scars left by the Atlantic slave trade. The story kicks off with an unexplainable death – a man found 1600 km from any ocean, while his son appears to have drowned. Detective Ethan Kroll delves into the mystery, uncovering details about Abi Eniola, who claims to be an ordinary Nigerian woman, although her extraordinary skills and high-tech tools suggest otherwise.

On the disputed planet, women are compelled to battle for POWs, revealing a “truly alien landscape” that exposes scientific hatred and the truth about her identity and her fellow captives. Bora Chong draws upon real history to create this narrative, particularly the Korean soldiers who fought for the Qing Dynasty against Russia. It seems like a must-read!

Requiem unfolds in a moon-sized graveyard in space

Luca Oleastri/Alamy

Another riveting sci-fi horror piece comes from former president of the Association of Horror Writers, John Parisano. Set within the lunar cemetery of Eden, this story follows entities in the universe reclaiming the souls of the deceased. A spirit named Roland must fight to protect what he loves as their souls are threatened.

I’m also intrigued by never let me go, which reimagines England in 1979, where triplets Vincent, Lawrence, and William reside in a government-run facility known as the Sycamore scheme. They are monitored by three figures: morning, afternoon, and night mothers, recording their every move and keeping meticulous notes of their dreams and sins. As the government begins shutting down these homes, the children start to realize their lives might differ drastically from what they’ve been led to believe. I can’t wait to uncover the mystery of this tale.

This upcoming novel is being labeled speculative fiction, suggesting it isn’t traditional fantasy or science fiction, but it definitely piques my interest. The story revolves around Lina and her father arriving at a peculiar seaside building with a “time-made” design that symbolizes a clash between past and future. There, they meet an excommunicated 17th-century Jewish scholar and poets from the Tang Dynasty. What brings Lina and her father to this location?

As a reader, I’m often drawn to narratives focusing on mothers trying to protect their children in perilous futures. This one involves a world of extreme heat, forcing people to live nocturnally, with a mysterious sound field that has loomed for two decades. Scientist Hanna, once affiliated with Soundfield, must now safeguard her gifted son, Isaac.

In a grim future filled with raging wildfires, Iris, a hotelier in the German spa town of Badheim, believes the arrival of a young mother and daughter guests poses a significant threat.

I find the pitch for one novel appealing: “Boy Meets Girl Meets AI Therapist.” Adrian begins using Sike, an AI psychotherapy app designed to monitor users’ emotions and behaviors for optimal mental well-being. He becomes entangled with venture capitalist Maquie, keen on the next tech breakthrough, but she refuses to engage with Sike.

There’s nothing better than a good alien insect…

Victor Zastolskiy/Alamy

Jeff’s ordinary existence is upended when he encounters “a pale woman”; suddenly, he finds himself as a mercenary battling alien insects on the front lines. This intriguing premise is from the publisher of Joe Haldeman’s military sci-fi novel, Eternal War—a title I’m eager to explore, especially given my fascination with alien insects.

The Art and Science of Writing Science Fiction

Dive into the realms of science fiction and learn how to craft your own captivating stories in this immersive weekend getaway.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Greenland Sharks Survive for Centuries Without Going Blind

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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            </div>
            <figcaption class="ArticleImageCaption">
                <div class="ArticleImageCaption__CaptionWrapper">
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Greenland shark eyes appear to retain their integrity over time</p>
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Water Frame/Alamy</p>
                </div>
            </figcaption>
        </figure>
    </p>
    <p>The Greenland shark, the longest-living vertebrate on the planet, exhibits no signs of retinal degeneration despite surviving for centuries. This discovery has intrigued scientists, particularly as these creatures are thought to be functionally blind, inhabiting the bleak depths of the ocean.</p>
    <p><a href="https://duw.unibas.ch/en/persons/fogg-lily/">Lily Fog</a> from the University of Basel, Switzerland, and her team performed a detailed examination of the eyes of eight deceased Greenland sharks (<em>Somniosus microcephalus</em>) and analyzed their DNA.</p>
    <p>For humans and many other species...</p>
</div>

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Google’s Antitrust Case Reshapes the AI Competition

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A federal judge made a significant ruling last year, declaring Google as a dominant player in the internet search industry. However, during a recent hearing aimed at addressing this issue, the focus shifted towards the rapidly evolving technology of artificial intelligence.

In a U.S. District Court session in Washington last week, a Justice Department attorney contended that Google’s search monopoly could hinder transparency within the company regarding the development of its AI chatbot, Gemini. Rivals in the AI sector also noted that Google’s influence poses a challenge to their success.

On Wednesday, the first critical question was directed at Google CEO Sundar Pichai. AI topics emerged more than 20 times during a 90-minute testimony after he took the stand.

“I consider it one of the most dynamic moments in the industry,” Pichai remarked. “I’ve observed user home screens featuring seven to nine chatbot applications that they’re experimenting with and refining.”

The antitrust lawsuits of the past have essentially morphed into a debate about the future, with both the government and Google suggesting modifications to the tech giant’s business practices that could alter the trajectory of AI development.

For over two decades, Google’s search engine has dominated the online information landscape. Now, federal courts are assessing whether the Silicon Valley behemoths will lead the next phase of how users access information as consumers increasingly turn to new chatbot technologies for answers and solutions.

During the proceedings, government attorneys asserted that Google’s monopolistic search strategies could facilitate the widespread adoption of its Gemini Chatbot. They argue that the burgeoning AI sector should not allow consumers to be deprived of diverse product alternatives.

Google countered by stating that OpenAI’s rapid ascent (the AI startup powering Apple’s products) showcases the existing competition, asserting that intervention from the courts is unnecessary.

Judge Amit P. Mehta, who is overseeing the search-related cases, may reshape this fierce competition and influence technology policy through these AI discussions. Google is already a leading AI entity, with Gemini attracting over 350 million active users monthly. Any measures to curb this endeavor or support competitors will greatly impact the race.

The government has requested the court to mandate Google to divest its Chrome browser and share data with competitors, which includes search results and advertisements, along with other actions.

These government initiatives are inherently forward-looking, aiming to dismantle long-standing monopolistic practices and open the market to new challengers. As John Newman, deputy director of the Competition Bureau during the Biden administration, stated, “You don’t want to spend five years on a case that leads to no substantial action and consumes resources across multiple agencies.”

A spokesperson for Google highlighted John Schmidtlein, the company’s lead counsel, who claimed that the artificial intelligence market is “extremely competitive.” The Department of Justice has opted not to provide comments.

This year’s hearings follow a 2024 ruling that found Google illicitly maintained its monopoly by compensating companies like Apple, Mozilla, and Samsung, ensuring its search engine’s automatic prominence on web browsers and smartphones.

From the start of the hearings, the focus has remained firmly on artificial intelligence.

Professor Gregory Dullett, an associate professor of computer science at the University of Texas, was the first witness, providing Judge Mehta with an overview of AI technologies and their integration into Google’s products.

The government presented documentation indicating that last year, Google contemplated a deal with wireless carriers and smartphone manufacturers for premium placement of Gemini Prime alongside its search engine, reminiscent of a previous arrangement for prominent search engine positioning.

After the judge’s ruling last year regarding search practices, Google opted not to pursue the Gemini initiative with wireless carriers and phone manufacturers. Ultimately, separate agreements were reached with Samsung to feature Gemini on their devices, as documented.

Google executives testified that their partnership with Samsung allowed smartphone makers to collaborate with other AI services. Pichai noted that the company is focused on forming partnerships in alignment with its relief proposals, emphasizing that smartphone manufacturers should have greater autonomy in determining which Google applications to utilize.

Executives from competing AI firms, including OpenAI, shared that proposed changes to Google’s business practices would help facilitate product development and consumer access.

Nicholas Turley, head of product for OpenAI’s ChatGPT, revealed that his company developed a prototype search tool called SearchGPT in July, requesting Google to participate in a transaction for data access. However, an email from OpenAI’s team indicated that Google rejected the request due to its “complexity.”

“Given the competitive nature of our products, we recognized that Google might not be inclined to offer favorable terms,” Turley remarked, adding that if Judge Mehta compels Google to provide greater data access to OpenAI, their company could “develop better products more swiftly.”

OpenAI has also expressed interest in acquiring Google’s Chrome browser if it becomes available for sale, Turley noted.

(The New York Times has sued OpenAI and Microsoft regarding copyright infringement related to news content and AI systems, both parties have denied these allegations.)

Dmitry Shevelenko, chief business officer of AI search startup Confusion, testified that his organization sought a deal with a telecom company to source a chatbot, which was already in an arrangement with Google.

He stated, “They really appreciate our assistant and believe it enhances user experience, but we can’t modify the default assistant on our devices due to our obligations to Google.”

Google’s legal team countered that the company has not imposed overly restrictive agreements on smartphone manufacturers concerning Gemini. They reiterated that many AI firms are flourishing, citing data showing that ChatGPT surpasses all other chatbots in usage.

“I believe ChatGPT is performing well without any interventions required in this case,” Schmidtlein stated in his opening remarks. “These companies are thriving independently of the plaintiff’s proposed solutions.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Key Elements of Dark Chocolate Might Promote Healthy Aging

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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                <div class="ArticleImageCaption__CaptionWrapper">
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Dark chocolate is a notable source of theobromine, a beneficial chemical</p>
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Studio-N/Shutterstock</p>
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            </figcaption>
        </figure>
    </p>
    <p>While chocolate may be associated with anti-aging benefits, it’s wise to be cautious before indulging. The beneficial compounds are predominantly found in dark chocolate, and the overall health impact of chocolate consumption remains uncertain.</p>
    <p>"There are numerous aspects of dark chocolate, each with its pros and cons," says <a href="https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/90100-ramy-saad/publications">Rumy Sars</a> from University College London.</p>

    <p>The substance in question, theobromine, is famously known to be toxic to dogs. However, that's just one aspect...</p>
</div>

Feel free to modify any specific terms or phrases further!

Source: www.newscientist.com

Pastor Revises Data Bill in Response to Artists’ AI and Copyright Concerns

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The minister proposed concessions regarding copyright modifications to address the concerns of artists and creators ahead of a crucial vote in Congress next week, according to the Guardian.

The government is dedicated to conducting economic impact assessments for the proposed copyright changes and releasing reports on matters like data accessibility for AI developers.

These concessions aim to alleviate worries among Congress members and the creative sector regarding the government’s planned reforms to copyright regulations.

Prominent artists such as Paul McCartney and Tom Stoppard have rallied behind a campaign opposing a range of high-profile intervention changes. Elton John remarked that the reforms “will expand traditional copyright laws that safeguard artists’ livelihoods.”

The Minister intends to permit AI companies to utilize copyrighted works for model training without acquiring permission, unless the copyright holder opts out. Creatives argue this favors AI firms and expresses a desire to adhere to existing copyright laws.

The government’s pledge will be reflected in amendments to the data bill, which will serve as a key instrument for advocates opposing the proposed changes and is scheduled to be discussed in the Commons next Wednesday.

The initiative has already faced criticism. Crossbench peer and activist Beevan Kidron stated that the minister’s amendments would not “meet the moment” and indicated that the Liberal Democrats would propose their revisions to compel AI companies to comply with current copyright laws.

British composer Ed Newton Rex, a notable opponent of the government’s proposal, argued there is “extensive evidence” suggesting that the changes “are detrimental for creators.” He added that no impact assessment was needed to convey this.

Ahead of next week’s vote, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle sought to establish rapport within the creative community.

During a meeting with music industry stakeholders this week, Kyle acknowledged that his focus on engaging with the tech sector has frustrated creatives. He faced backlash after holding over 20 meetings with tech representatives but none with those from the creative sector.

Kyle further stirred criticism by stating at the conference that AI companies might choose to relocate to countries like Saudi Arabia unless the UK revamps its copyright framework. This was not discussed at a Downing Street meeting with MPs this week.

Government insiders assert that AI firms are already based abroad and emphasize that if the UK does not reform its laws, creatives may lack avenues to challenge the exploitation of materials by overseas companies.

According to government sources, the minister has not established an opt-out system and maintains “a much broader and more open-minded perspective.”

However, Labour lawmakers contend that the minister “has not proven any substantial job growth in return” and is yielding to American interests. They criticize this as, at best, outsourcing and, at worst, total exploitation.

Kidron, who has successfully amended the Lords’ data bill while opposing the government’s reforms, remarked, “The moment is not right for pushing the issue into the long grass with reports and reviews.”

“I ask the government why they neglect to protect UK property rights, fail to recognize the growth potential of UK creative industries, and ignore British AI companies that express concerns over favoritism towards firms based in China,” she stated.

James Fris, a Labour member of the Culture, Media and Sports Selection Committee who facilitated discussions on the matter this month, asserted, “The mission of the creative sector cannot equate to submission to the tech industry.”

Kidron’s amendments, aimed at making AI companies accountable under UK copyright laws regardless of location, were withdrawn in the Commons, but the Liberal Democrats plan to reintroduce them next week.

The Liberal Democrats’ proposal includes a requirement for AI model developers (the technology that supports AI systems like chatbots) to adhere to UK copyright laws and clarify the copyrighted materials incorporated during development.

The Liberal Democrat amendment also demands transparency regarding the web crawlers used by AI companies, referring to the technology that gathers data from the Internet for AI models.

Victoria Collins, spokesperson for Liberal Democrat Technology, stated:

“Next week in the Commons, we will work to prevent AI copyright laws from being diluted and push Parliament to urge lawmakers to stand with us in support of UK creators.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tesla’s Chair Claims Board Did Not Attempt to Replace Elon Musk

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The chairman of Tesla’s board has refuted claims regarding his search for a successor to CEO Elon Musk, who has been preoccupied with President Trump while the company’s sales and profits have notably declined.

Robin Denholm, who has chaired the board for over six years, stated on X that the Wall Street Journal report was “completely unfounded.”

“Elon Musk is Tesla’s CEO, and the board is highly confident in our ability to pursue our exciting growth initiatives,” Denholm announced on a Tesla account linked to Musk’s social media platform, X.

The Wall Street Journal reported late Wednesday that approximately a month ago, the Tesla board reached out to an executive search firm for assistance in finding a potential alternative to Musk, citing “individuals with relevant expertise.”

Following a 71% drop in quarterly profit reported last week, Musk has committed to dedicating more time to Tesla and less to Washington. He mentioned he spends one or two days weekly on administrative tasks.

Musk’s absence from Tesla, as he focuses on efforts to reduce government spending under Trump, has stirred frustration among investors. His association with right-wing movements in Europe has sparked protests at Tesla dealerships and contributed to decreasing sales, as electric vehicle buyers generally lean more liberal or centrist.

Recent reports indicated that Tesla’s revenue fell 9% in the first quarter of this year, amounting to $19.3 billion.

Automakers are losing market share in the US, China, and Europe, as competitors like BYD, General Motors, Volkswagen, and others roll out numerous electric models. Analysts have criticized Tesla for not broadening its offerings beyond the two main vehicles.

The Model Y SUVs and Model 3 sedans account for a substantial portion of Tesla’s sales. Musk indicated that Tesla’s latest vehicle, the CyberTruck, is not yet available for sale.

Source: www.nytimes.com

How Nearly a Century of Happiness Research Unveiled a Key Finding

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

When Lyubomirsky joined Stanford’s Graduate School of Social Psychology in 1989, the study of happiness was just beginning to earn respectability in academia. Ed Diener, a psychologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, would later gain recognition for his contributions to the field. Despite his long-standing interest in happiness, he chose to wait until he achieved tenure before diving into the subject. Similarly, Lyubomirsky was hesitant to specialize in happiness; as a serious scientist, she felt that topics related to “emotion” were often regarded as less rigorous. However, after an engaging discussion with her advisor on her first day at Stanford, she resolved to make happiness her primary focus.

Lyubomirsky began by exploring the fundamental question of why some individuals experience greater happiness than others. A few years prior, Diener had published a survey that examined existing research, highlighting the types of behaviors often associated with happy individuals. However, the studies often yielded conflicting results, leading to a lack of definitive answers. Lyubomirsky’s own findings indicated that mindset plays a significant role; happy individuals tended to avoid comparing themselves to others, held positive views of those around them, made fulfilling choices, and did not dwell on negativity.

Yet, Lyubomirsky recognized the complexity of cause and effect. Did a happy disposition foster a healthy mindset, or did adopting a positive outlook lead to increased happiness? Were people inherently predisposed to a certain level of happiness, much like mothers clustering together? She pondered whether it was possible to shift one’s mindset, noting that such changes often required extensive time—many people spend years in therapy attempting to achieve this, often without success. This prompted her to investigate whether simpler, quicker actions could enhance well-being.

To this end, Lyubomirsky researched various habits and practices thought to uplift mood, such as random acts of kindness and expressions of gratitude. Over six weeks, she instructed students to perform five acts of kindness each week—like donating blood or assisting peers with assignments. By the end of the study, these students reported higher levels of happiness compared to a control group. Another group reflected weekly on things they were grateful for, such as “My Mother” and “AOL Instant Messenger,” and similarly experienced an increase in happiness. Although the changes were modest, Lyubomirsky found it intriguing that small, low-cost interventions could enhance students’ quality of life. In 2005, she published a paper asserting that individuals possess significant control over their happiness.

Lyubomirsky’s research emerged during a time when psychology was reevaluating its objectives and focus. When Martin Seligman, a psychologist from the University of Pennsylvania, took leadership of the American Psychological Association in 1998, he and his colleagues noted that the field had overly concentrated on dysfunction, neglecting the promotion of life satisfaction. He urged his peers to explore themes such as “optimism, courage, work ethic, resilience, interpersonal skills, pleasure, insight, and social responsibility,” advocating a return to making life more fulfilling and productive for everyone.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Meta Surpasses Wall Street Expectations with Quarterly Revenues Boosted by Billion-Dollar AI Investments

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Wednesday, Meta announced its revenues, exceeding Wall Street’s forecasts for yet another quarter, while simultaneously generating billions with artificial intelligence.

In the first quarter of 2025, Meta reported a revenue of $423.2 billion, surpassing both its own projected high of $41.8 billion and the Wall Street expectation of $413.8 billion.

The company also disclosed earnings per share of $6.43, significantly exceeding Wall Street’s prediction of $5.27, leading to a surge in stock prices after market hours.

“This is a strong start to what is set to be a pivotal year for us. Our community continues to expand, and our business model is performing effectively,” stated Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO. “We are making notable advancements in AI glasses and Meta AI, with approximately 1 billion active monthly users.”

Zuckerberg conveyed in a discussion with investors that the company is performing well, its platform is expanding, and it is prepared to navigate the prevailing macroeconomic uncertainties.

“We maintain the belief that this year will be crucial in our industry,” he remarked.

This marks a continuation of Meta’s succesful track record in surpassing Wall Street expectations over recent quarters. However, it remains uncertain whether this will alleviate investor apprehensions. Analysts expressed dissatisfaction regarding the company’s first-quarter revenue outlook shared at the end of 2024. The firm plans to allocate between $64 million and $72 billion for capital expenditures, focusing on building AI infrastructure, a revision from the previous estimate of $65 billion. Total expenses for the first quarter had already reached $24.76 billion, marking a 9% year-over-year increase. The unpredictable nature of Donald Trump’s tariffs could still disrupt the advertising market and cloud the company’s financial forecast for the upcoming quarters.

Senior analyst Minda Smiley from eMarketer noted that the company’s “optimistic second quarter guidance indicates a lack of expectation for a significant decline in advertising revenue due to tariffs.” However, she expressed doubt about Meta’s ability to avoid long-term recession effects.

“Conversely, companies may take advantage of economic instability. Advertisers are likely to shift their spending towards established platforms like Facebook and Instagram while avoiding smaller social media networks,” added Smiley. “Nevertheless, a significant portion of Meta’s revenue is relying on advertising from Chinese retailers such as Temu and Shein targeting US consumers, whose spending is decreasing due to changing trade conditions and tariffs.”

Meta’s continued spending also “remains a concern for investors,” according to Debra Aho Williamson, founder and chief analyst at Sonata Insights. “Despite this, Meta has stayed away from directly monetizing AI this year, instead focusing on enhancing AI engagement amongst developers, app users, and advertisers,” remarked Williamson.

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In the lead-up to the revenue report, Meta has made headlines with mixed AI-related developments, including the release of a standalone AI application intended to compete with ChatGPT. A WSJ Report highlighted that existing chatbots integrated into various products, such as Facebook and Instagram, have enabled teenagers to engage in “romantic role-plays.” Meta executives have consistently emphasized the approximately 1 billion users of their AI chatbots. However, many of these users access chatbots through complex paths within WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook. The company has not disclosed specifics about user interactions with chatbots or the depth of these engagements necessary to classify as AI chatbot users.

Alongside ongoing antitrust trials—where the company faces allegations of establishing an illegal social media monopoly through the acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp—additional concerns loom for analysts regarding Meta’s financial stability, despite the seemingly positive figures.

“Meta’s revenue announcements arrive during a turbulent period, as the company faces potential changes to its future. As discussed in court, the outcomes could fundamentally reshape the social media landscape,” observed Forrester VP Mike Pulx. “Focusing more resources on enhancing Threads and Facebook might be crucial, as these could be the last remaining platforms of value for the company. Additionally, it’s noteworthy that Meta has significantly reduced its workforce within the Reality Labs division, which is struggling and ongoing.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

If Apple Halts Production in China, Its Value Could plummet by 50%

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Several years prior to Donald J. Trump’s entry into politics, Apple, together with its partners, established extensive factories throughout China to assemble the iPhone. Trump’s presidential campaign began by promising his supporters that he would compel Apple to manufacture those products domestically.

Nearly a decade later, the situation has changed little. Rather than shifting manufacturing back home, Apple has transferred production from China to India, Vietnam, and Thailand, with approximately 80% of iPhones still being made in China.

Despite enduring pressure over the years, Apple’s business remains heavily reliant on China, making it impossible for the tech giant to operate without it. After actions taken by the Trump administration, the risks associated with Apple’s operations have prompted concerns for the world’s most valuable publicly traded companies. Significant efforts to relocate Apple’s production to the US would require immense collaboration between the company and the federal government.

Just four days after President Trump announced tariffs on 145% of Chinese exports last month, Apple saw a decline of $770 billion in its market capitalization. The company recouped some of these losses after the President granted a temporary reprieve to Chinese appliance manufacturers.

On Thursday, Wall Street analysts are anticipating a 4% increase in Apple’s most recent quarterly report. This surge comes as consumers rushed to purchase iPhones before the tariffs took effect. The report will provide an opportunity for analysts to question Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding future tariffs, price hikes, and potential risks in both China and the US.

An Apple representative declined to provide executives for interviews for this article. The company announced plans to invest $500 billion in the US over the next four years and will commence manufacturing artificial intelligence servers in Houston by 2026.

“The scrutiny is warranted as they are most at risk from a complete breakdown between the US and China,” stated David Yoffie, a Harvard Business School professor who has authored a case study on Apple.

Gene Munster, managing partner at Deepwater Asset Management, which invests in emerging technology firms, estimates that a total breakdown in relations between the US and China could diminish Apple’s value by more than half. Even if a third of sales moves production to alternate countries, a significant portion of that revenue still relies on products manufactured in China, potentially reducing a $3.2 trillion company to a $1.6 trillion entity. Additionally, if Apple loses sales to Chinese consumers, similar to rival Samsung during the South Korea-China conflict, the value could plummet to $1.2 trillion, especially considering that Beijing has already discouraged government officials from purchasing iPhones.

A substantial decrease in Apple’s value would create significant ripples throughout the stock market, as the company accounts for around 6% of the S&P 500 index. This implies that for every dollar invested in the fund, approximately six cents would be allocated to Apple stocks, leading to a potential halving of returns for investors and the majority of 401(k) holders.

Apple’s connections within China run deep. Decades ago, the company collaborated with Beijing to establish manufacturing operations in China without needing to create a joint venture with local firms, a requirement faced by many US companies. This groundwork allowed Apple to assemble devices affordably in China and sell to the rising middle class, resulting in over 80% of global smartphone profits and generating $67 billion in annual sales in the region.

Over time, Apple’s relationships with China have only strengthened. Today, not only are most iPhones manufactured in China, but Chinese suppliers also produce components for devices made in India and create parts and AirPods in Vietnam.

Apple’s dependence on China has transformed the supply chain into a Rorschach test for the Trump administration. Apple wields more power than any other technology company and achieves its management objectives effectively. The company produces more smartphones than anyone else, invests heavily in components, and significantly impacts the operational landscape of its suppliers.

The Trump administration is hopeful that Apple will initiate a shift. During an interview in April, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick remarked, “A workforce of millions is assembling the screws that make iPhones — similar operations will come to America.”

However, pressure on Apple to exit China may prove counterproductive. New tariffs could compel Apple to increase iPhone prices or diminish its smartphone profits. Samsung’s devices, manufactured in Vietnam and exempt from Chinese tariffs, could become cheaper as a result. This could lead to reduced competition in the domestic market, a scenario that Trump is reluctant to embrace.

Apple has resisted the notion of manufacturing iPhones and other devices in the US, as its operations team concluded it would be unfeasible, according to two individuals familiar with the discussions who spoke on condition of anonymity. Ten years ago, finding dependable workers to procure screws and assemble Mac computers in Texas proved challenging.

In China, Apple’s suppliers can recruit around 200,000 workers, who operate in factories monitored by thousands of engineers with extensive manufacturing experience. Many reside in dormitories close to iPhone factories, where components move along the assembly line spanning distances longer than a soccer field.

Wayne Lam, an analyst from TechInsights, states that many employees and seasoned engineers have found it nearly impossible to replicate this in most American cities. He asserts that Apple must develop more automated processes using robotics to compensate for the lower population in the US.

Lam estimates that if Apple were to establish operations in the US, it may have to charge around $2,000 for an iPhone (currently about $1,000) to sustain its existing profit margins. Prices could fall to $1,500 in the future as the company mitigates employee training costs and component production expenses.

“In the short term, it’s not economically viable,” Lam remarked. He also noted that shifting device production back home after nearly 20 years would seem impractical and may complicate the introduction of new products to consumers.

Apple has demonstrated a willingness to adjust its supply chain when adequately incentivized. In 2017, the company began the process of manufacturing an iPhone in India due to elevated import taxes that would inflate prices, hindering their ability to capture market share in the world’s fastest-growing smartphone sector.

Currently, Apple sells approximately 20% of its iPhones globally in India and also produces several components, including metal frames there. However, they still depend on Chinese manufacturers for assembling displays and other intricate parts.

Matthew Moore, a former manufacturing design manager at Apple, emphasized that India offers an advantage the US lacks: “engineers are plentiful everywhere.”

Moore argues that in order to attract Apple and other electronics firms to the United States, the Trump administration must invest in education for science, technology, engineering, and math degrees. Additionally, he believes that there should be incentives for loans towards new manufacturing facilities and affordable housing through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Last month, Apple temporarily benefitted from a delay. Cook, who has personally donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration, lobbied the administration for the exemption that spared iPhones and other electronic devices from the 145% tax on Chinese imports. However, this reprieve is temporary, as the administration plans to implement more targeted tariffs on high-tech products.

Without governmental investment, Apple and smaller manufacturers will continue their production in China, as they possess the surplus equipment and engineering staff necessary, according to Moore.

“I don’t believe the ship has sailed; however, it is unrealistic to expect them to manufacture an iPhone here,” Moore commented. “This will require a decade.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Tesla Refutes Claims of Seeking Alternatives to Elon Musk on the Board

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tesla has refuted claims that its board sought to replace Elon Musk as CEO in response to backlash over his right-wing views and decreasing vehicle sales.

Robin Denholm, chair of the electric vehicle manufacturer’s board, stated on Tesla’s social media account on X:

“This is completely inaccurate (and this was conveyed to the media prior to the release of the report). Elon Musk is Tesla’s CEO, and the board has full confidence in its ability to continue executing our ambitious growth plans.”

Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Photo: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Following a report from the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, “board members” are said to have contacted a headhunter to explore potential successors about a month ago.

This reported action has allowed Donald Trump to influence federal spending as the informal head of the “Doctors of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), amidst rising tensions at Tesla due to Musk’s extensive involvement in Washington.

It remains unclear whether these board members acted collectively or individually in seeking to identify a new CEO. The Tesla Committee consists of eight members, including Elon Musk, his brother Kimbal Musk, and James Murdoch, son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch.

Tesla has faced significant backlash over Musk’s recent political activities, including his public support for actions against Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the national elections in February. Sales of electric vehicles have dropped in some major markets, accompanied by political protests at various showrooms.

Recently, the company reported a 71% decrease in profits for the first quarter of this year, down from $139 billion in the same period of 2024.

Musk informed investors that he would “dedicate significantly more time to Tesla” beginning in May. He is expected to conclude his role at DOGE by May 30, adhering to the 130-day limit imposed on his service as a special government employee.

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Concerns have persisted regarding the demands of the Musk era. In addition to Tesla, he manages four other companies, including the space exploration firm SpaceX and the social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

On Thursday, Musk criticized the Wall Street Journal report on X, stating: “It is an ethical violation that @WSJ deliberately publishes false reports and fails to present a clear denial from Tesla’s board beforehand!”

Source: www.theguardian.com

How “Native English” Scattered Spider Groups Are Connected to M&S Attacks

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

One significant distinction between certain members of the dispersed spider hacking community and their ransomware counterparts is their accent.

The scattered spiders are connected to the cyberattacks on the British retailer Marks & Spencer. Unlike typical ransomware attackers, the individuals involved seem to be native English speakers, rather than hailing from Russia or former Soviet nations.

This linguistic advantage supports one of their techniques, which Russian hackers may find difficult to emulate. They can infiltrate systems by calling company desks and impersonating employees or by contacting employees while posing as someone from their company desk.

“Being a native English speaker can foster immediate trust. Even internal staff and IT teams may let their guard down slightly due to perceived familiarity,”

Last November, the U.S. Department of Justice shed light on some suspected spider members by charging five individuals for targeting an unidentified American firm through a phishing text message.

The DOJ alleged that the accused sent fraudulent texts to employees, tricking them into divulging sensitive information, including company logins. This breach resulted in the theft of sensitive data, including intellectual property, and significant sums of cryptocurrency from digital wallets.

All the accused were in their 20s at the time of the allegations, with four of them aged between 20 and 25, and Tyler Buchanan, 23, from Scotland, who was extradited from Spain to the U.S. last week. He is set to appear in court in Los Angeles on May 12th.

The U.S. Cybersecurity Agency detailed the scattered spider IT desk strategy in an advisory released in 2023.

Notable ransomware victims of scattered spider attacks include casino operators MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, which were targeted in 2023. Following the attacks, the West Midlands police arrested a 17-year-old in Walsall last year. They have been contacted for further updates on this incident.

The scattered spider was identified as responsible for the M&S breach by BleepingComputer, a high-tech news platform. The report indicated that the attackers employed malicious software known as Dragonforce to compromise parts of the retailer’s IT network.

These incidents are categorized as ransomware attacks because the attackers typically demand substantial payments in cryptocurrency to restore access to compromised systems. Leveraging ransomware from other gangs is a common occurrence, known as the model of ransomware-as-a-service.

Analysts from cybersecurity firm Recorded Future remarked that “scattered spiders” is more of an “umbrella term” rather than a specific group of financially motivated cybercriminals. They noted it stemmed from “The Com” rather than “monolithic entities,” and is engaged in various criminal activities, including sextortion, cyberstalking, and payment card fraud.

“We operate within a channel and affiliate marketing framework, primarily on platforms like Discord and Telegram, mostly in exclusive invitation-only channels and groups,” stated the analyst.

Ciaran Martin, former head of the UK’s National Cybersecurity Centre, remarked that scattered spiders are “unusual” given their non-Russian origins.

“The vast majority of ransomware groups originate from Russia. [Scattered Spider] seems to have utilized Russian code for this attack with Dragonforce, but notably, they appear to be based here and in the U.S., which may facilitate their arrest.” Martin, now a professor at Brabatnik Government School at Oxford University, added:

Martin further emphasized that the youthful infamy of scattered spiders should not diminish the threat they pose. “They are indeed a rare but quietly menacing group,” he noted.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Sky Glass Gen 2 Review: Elevating Smart Streaming TV Experience

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The new Sky Glass Smart TV version brings all-in-one functionality, making Pay TV quicker, clearer, and free from satellite use, proving to be one of the top models available compared to its predecessors.

The Sky Glass Gen 2 serves as the direct successor to the initial 2021 model, which introduced Sky’s broadband-based TV service, eliminating the need for satellite dishes. Available in three sizes, the smallest being 43 inches, it can be purchased with a one-time payment over four years, after which you fully own it.

Starting at £15 per month for Sky Essential TV Packs, a Sky subscription is necessary for full access. While you can’t use the TV without a subscription, should you decide to cancel in the future, it functions as a basic smart TV with access to streaming apps like BBC iPlayer, equipped with a basic aerial and multiple HDMI inputs.

The Gen 2 is available in three colors, complete with a matching remote control. Photo: Sky UK

From the front, the Gen 2 closely resembles its predecessor, featuring a sleek, monolithic design with an aluminum body, a slim bezel, and a soundbar cleverly concealed behind a mesh that matches the bottom colors. The voice-activated microphone responds to “Hello Sky.” Although the Glass Gen 2 is thinner and lighter than the previous model, it remains on the heavier side compared to newer models. The 43-inch version weighs 14.7kg, while the larger 55-inch and 65-inch variants necessitate the assistance of two people for safe handling.

The newly designed stand simplifies setup, even for the tested 65-inch model, as the TV easily slots into two prongs and requires a stable mount secured with screws and tools. For internet connectivity, a power cable and WiFi or Ethernet connection are essential. Wall brackets are sold separately.

The TV detects movement and powers on/off as needed, displaying full-screen recommendations for the latest shows and movies. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The vibrant 4K LCD display is notably brighter than the previous version, with improved black depths and significantly reduced halo effects. The screen’s automatic brightness adjustments can make content look overly dark in rooms that aren’t brightly lit, but turning this feature off enhances viewing.

Sky has included an automatic image optimization mode that detects content types such as entertainment, sports, and movies. Additionally, modes like manual, vibrant, and film are available for those who prefer more intense colors. The entertainment mode can make skin tones appear overly warm, while I found the film mode to be more balanced, also offering a custom mode for personalized adjustments.

The screen’s capabilities shine when displaying HDR content, be it films, shows, or sports. The Premier League looks crisp and lively, while titles like Mad Max: Fury Road in Dolby Vision are particularly impressive. However, this TV isn’t the most suitable option for gaming on consoles like the Xbox or PS5, as it lacks variable refresh rates up to 120Hz, which are advantageous for console games.

Impressive Sound and Clarity

The speakers are positioned on the grill at the top and the fabric strip at the bottom of the screen. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

A significant benefit of Sky Glass over conventional TVs is the built-in speaker soundbar. Vocals maintain clarity at nearly all volumes, sidestepping the common lip-sync issues found with external soundbars. Even without an additional subwoofer or rear speakers, it impressively delivers substantial sound.

However, it struggles to produce deep, rich bass, and while the sound has impressive width, virtual surround effects are limited, necessitating more complex systems with additional speakers to achieve this.

The TV also features night mode, audio enhancement, and bass boost settings. The night mode is especially handy for lowering loud sounds while ensuring dialogue remains comprehensible, making it ideal for late-night screenings without disturbing others.

Enhanced Sky Over Broadband

To stream HD, a minimum of 25Mbps is required; for UHD broadcasts, 30Mbps is necessary, but Sky’s broadband service does not need to operate at these levels. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Since the original Glass launched in 2021, the robustness of the Sky OS service has greatly improved. It still offers excellent search capabilities and advanced playlist features, alongside multiple user profiles that allow each family member to maintain their own lists and recommendations, including children’s profiles.

The playlist feature automatically tracks new episodes from shows or movies you are interested in, directing you to a “Continue Watching” section, making it easy to return to the content you’ve already begun.

Features like live TV, pause, and rewind function seamlessly. Recent reductions in broadcast delays greatly enhance the experience, ensuring thrilling moments aren’t missed for friends relying on satellite or aerial feeds.

On-demand content from the Sky Platform works effectively, and third-party services like BBC iPlayer, ITV X, and Channel 4 have seen significant enhancements compared to previous reliance on recordings. While not quite as seamless and speedy as local recordings on Sky Q and similar PVRs, most apps launch quickly, perform well, and lead directly to the desired episode from your playlist or search result.

It supports most leading on-demand services, including My5, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, Discovery+, and others, allowing for all content to be easily accessed in one location.

Voice control is operational via remote buttons, though the TV’s voice activation is somewhat unpredictable, comprehending commands about 60% of the time. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Sustainability

The TV is designed for repair, featuring 22% recycled materials, such as aluminum, fabric, tin, and plastic. The manufacturer also recycles old devices and packages the TV using plastic-free materials.

Pricing

The price for Sky Glass Gen 2 is £699 for the 43-inch model, £949 for the 55-inch model, and £1,199 for the 65-inch model, with no-interest payment plans available for either 24 or 48 months for all models.

The 24-month plans for Sky Essential TV start at £15 monthly; Sky Ultimate TV begins at £22 per month; UHD with Dolby Atmos costs an additional £6, along with options to skip ads. Other available add-ons include Sky Sports starting from £31 monthly, TNT Sports from £31, Sky Cinema from £13, and Sky Kids at £8. Discounts are possible with certain combinations, although pricing varies for different packages every 31 days.

Conclusion

While the first generation of Glass needed refinement, the Gen 2 addresses many of its shortcomings effectively.

It offers a brighter, faster display with higher contrast and impressive handling. Additionally, it boasts the best sound quality among available TVs. It remains competitive in the mid-range market, although aesthetically pleasing screens can be found at similar price points without a soundbar. For those in search of the absolute finest display, alternatives are available.

The Sky OS service has advanced significantly to reach performance levels comparable to the leading competitors in the sector. Live broadcasts work smoothly, whether from satellite or cable. Sky’s on-demand offerings are just as effective as local recordings, while third-party apps like BBC iPlayer and ITVX have reached acceptable performances. Featuring robust search and playlist capabilities that support all major streaming services makes content discovery effortless.

Ultimately, the convenience of the Glass Gen 2, providing an all-in-one solution with solid sound and a unified remote for all TV functions, is a major draw.

Pros: All-in-one streaming and pay TV device, remarkable sound quality, no need for satellite or cable, excellent remote control functionality, robust search and playlist features, improved apps, enhanced display with excellent HDR, customizable image modes, and integrated voice control.

Cons: Image quality not as strong as some competitors, certain image modes need improvement, auto brightness settings can be bothersome, gaming consoles lack faster refresh rates, heavier and bulkier design, no Chromecast support, and some third-party on-demand services remain subpar.

The Power and Microphone Mute buttons are conveniently positioned on the right side of the TV. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Massive Meteorite Impacted Northwest Scotland 990 Million Years Ago.

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research by Curtin University reveals that an ancient influence, previously believed to have occurred 1.2 billion years ago, actually took place 990 million years ago, leading to the formation of the STAC FADA member. This discovery corrects the dating of some of the UK’s oldest non-marine microfossils and their significance in the timeline of eukaryotic colonization on land.

STAC FADA member. Image credit: Tony Prave.

“We utilized small zircon crystals as geological ‘time capsules’ to accurately date the impact at 990 million years ago,” stated Professor Chris Kirkland from Curtin University.

“These tiny crystals recorded precise moments of impact, some transforming into the rare mineral Reidite, which forms under extreme pressure.”

“This provided irrefutable evidence that the meteorite strike initiated the STAC FADA deposit.”

“When a meteorite strikes, it partially resets the atomic clocks within the zircon crystal. Although these ‘broken clocks’ can’t generate dates, they developed a model to reconstruct timing, affirming the impact’s occurrence 990 million years ago.”

The impact events coincided with the earliest emergence of freshwater eukaryotes, the ancient precursors to plants, animals, and fungi.

“The new date indicates that these life forms in Scotland appeared roughly at the same time as the meteorite impact,” Professor Kirkland remarked.

“This presents intriguing questions about whether significant impacts could have affected environmental conditions, potentially influencing early ecosystems.”

“The impact crater has yet to be located, but this study has gathered additional clues that may eventually uncover its position.

“Understanding the timeline of meteorite impacts will enable us to explore their potential effects on Earth’s environment and the diversification of life beyond the oceans.”

The team’s findings will be published in the journal Geological.

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CL Kirkland et al. The impact of Scottish meteors 100 million years ago. Geological Published online on April 28, 2025. doi: 10.1130/g53121.1

Source: www.sci.news

Fossils of Terrestrial Apex Predators Dating Back Six Million Years Unearthed in the Dominican Republic

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by the Florida Museum of Natural History reveals that this apex predator is a type of Cebucid crocodile with origins in South America.

The Cebushid crocodile ruled the South American landscape after the dinosaurs vanished, remaining dominant until roughly 11 million years ago. Image credit: Jorge Mackey.

The sebecids were the last survivors of notosuchia, a large and varied group of extinct crocodiles with fossil records that trace back to the era of dinosaurs.

Notosuchians exhibited a wide range of sizes, diets, and habitats, distinguishing themselves from their alligator relatives, as most inhabited terrestrial environments.

The Sevecid behaved like a carnivorous dinosaur, sprinting with four long, agile limbs and tearing flesh with its notorious teeth.

Some species were equipped with protective armor made of bone plates embedded in the skin, reaching lengths of up to 6 m (20 feet).

The catastrophic mass extinction at the end of the Cretaceous period, which eradicated non-avian dinosaurs, also nearly led to the extinction of the notosuchians.

In South America, only the Sevecids survived post-dinosaurs, quickly ascending to the role of apex predators.

The open waters separating the Caribbean islands from the South American mainland posed significant challenges for the Sevensids when it came to swimming.

In a new research effort, paleontologist Jonathan Bloch and his colleagues from the Florida Museum of Natural History analyzed vertebrae from fossilized teeth and spinal vertebrae dating back six million years, collected from the Paleopoultry 1 site in Savanna Grande de Boya, Dominican Republic.

“Our first question upon discovering these teeth in the Dominican Republic and other Caribbean islands was: what could they be?” Dr. Bloch mentioned.

The team also examined 18 million-year-old teeth found in Cuba and 29 million-year-old specimens from Puerto Rico.

“The fossils suggested evidence supporting the Girllandia hypothesis,” they noted.

This theory posits that a temporary land bridge or chain of islands enabled the migration from South America to the Caribbean.

“If the serrated teeth found in other Caribbean islands also belong to the Sevecid, the history of these giant reptiles stretches beyond just the Dominican Republic.”

“They would have played a significant role in shaping the ecosystems of this region for millions of years. However, today, evidence of large terrestrial predators is scarce.”

“In their absence, smaller endemic predators like birds, snakes, and crocodiles have evolved to fill gaps in the food chain,” he added.

“We could not have predicted this just by studying modern ecosystems,” Dr. Bloch remarked.

“The presence of large predators greatly differs from our previous assumptions, and it’s thrilling to explore what further discoveries might await in the Caribbean fossil record.”

The team’s paper was published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

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Lázaro W. Viñola López et al. 2025. The South American Sevecid from the Miocene of Hispaniola documents the presence of apex predators in the ecosystems of the Early West Indies. Proc. R. Soc. B 292 (2045): 20242891; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2024.2891

Source: www.sci.news

Judge Rules Men Accused of Hacking Can Be Sent to U.S. for Trial

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A British court has approved the extradition of an Israeli individual charged by a New York prosecutor in a case involving an operation dubbed “hacking fatalen,” aimed at environmental organizations.

According to prosecutors, the company operated by 57-year-old Amit Forlit allegedly earned over $16 million by hacking more than 100 victims and stealing confidential data while working for major oil companies on behalf of a lobbying firm.

In a court submission from January, Forlit’s attorneys identified the company as ExxonMobil. Exxon is currently facing lawsuits from Democratic lawyers and local officials regarding its role in climate change, with claims that it has concealed knowledge about climate change for decades to maintain its oil sales. The lobbying firm mentioned in the filing is known as DCI Group.

Exxon has stated that it was not involved in and had no knowledge of the hacking activities, emphasizing, “If hacking is involved, we will condemn it in the strongest possible terms.”

A spokesman for DCI, Craig Stevens, stated that the firm has instructed its employees and consultants to follow the law and asserted that none of DCI’s guidance was linked to the hack that allegedly occurred a decade ago.

DCI also referred to “numerous billionaire donors still benefiting from the fossil fuel legacy,” describing them as “financiers of radical anti-oil activists and their billionaire backers.”

This remark hinted at the Rockefellers’ involvement in supporting organizations pursuing climate change litigation. The Rockefeller heirs, who amassed oil fortunes over a century ago, lead the Rockefeller Family Fund, which plays a significant role in the movement to sue oil companies over climate change. Lee Wasserman, its director, has reported being targeted in a hacking initiative.

Last year, Forlit was arrested in connection with a major trial in New York for allegedly committing wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and hacking offenses that could lead to lengthy prison sentences. His legal team contended that he should not be extradited due to concerns about a fair trial in the U.S., given the political climate surrounding climate change litigations.

They argued that “one motive for the prosecution appears to be an effort to advance political agendas against ExxonMobil, with Forlit being collateral damage.”

Forlit’s attorneys also expressed concerns about his safety at the Metropolitan Detention Center, New York’s only federal prison, which has been criticized for violence and dysfunction. High-profile detainees have included individuals such as Luigi Mangione, Sam Bankman-Fried, and Shawn Combs (Puff Daddy/Diddy).

The Westminster Magistrate’s Court dismissed these worries, but Forlit has the option to appeal. His attorney did not immediately respond to inquiries for comments.

One targeted entity was a coalition of concerned scientists who have extensively researched the fossil fuel industry’s influence on climate science disinformation. This group also engages in source attribution science, estimating how specific companies contribute to global warming effects like rising sea levels and wildfires. Their findings support lawsuits against the oil sector.

The organization became aware of hacking attempts following a 2020 report from Citizen Lab, a cybersecurity watchdog from the University of Toronto, which revealed that hackers were targeting American nonprofits working on the #ExxonKnew campaign.

A coalition of concerned scientists has received suspicious emails in which hackers attempted to extract passwords or deploy malicious software. Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of New York have initiated an investigation.

One of Forlit’s associates, Aviram Azari, pleaded guilty in New York to charges including computer breaches, wire fraud, and identity theft, receiving a six-year prison sentence.

Forlit manages two Israel-registered security and intelligence newsletter firms, one of which is registered in the U.S. His clientele includes a lobbying firm representing “one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies” involved in ongoing climate change litigation. Exxon has its historical roots in Irving, Texas.

The lobbying firm selected targets for Mr. Forlit, who then passed the list to Azari. Azari, who owned another Israeli-based company, employed individuals from India to gain illegal access to accounts. This information was reportedly utilized to gather documents from oil companies and the media, allegedly undermining the integrity of the civil investigation, according to the filings.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Microplastics Could Impair the Ocean’s Carbon Capture Capacity

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Free divers surrounded by plastic pollution

Sebnem Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Microplastics are not merely present on the ocean’s surface. A comprehensive study on small particles has shown their widespread presence throughout the water column, potentially impacting the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon from the atmosphere.

“There are countless entities like this all across the ocean’s interior,” states Tracy Mincer from Florida Atlantic University.

Mincer and his team analyzed microplastic data collected over the last decade from nearly 2,000 global locations. While many assessments concentrate on shallow ocean surfaces, their dataset incorporated samples from various depths, including some of the ocean’s deepest regions.

The researchers found microplastics documented precisely where research efforts were focused. This includes the Mariana Trench, where more than 13,000 microplastic particles were recorded, nearly 7 kilometers per cubic meter.

They were taken aback by the uniform distribution of the smallest particles throughout the water column. “While we anticipated finding plastics at both the ocean’s surface and its depths, they were unexpectedly widespread,” remarked Aron Stubbins from Northeastern University, Massachusetts.

Additionally, these plastic polymers contribute significantly to the carbon particles present in the water. At a depth of 2,000 meters, an area less biologically active than the surface, they account for 5% of the carbon content.

The ecological ramifications of these findings are not yet fully understood. One major concern is that buoyant plastics consumed by plankton may decrease the amount of carbon that is effectively transported to deeper layers through fecal pellets and carcasses. This could impede the ocean’s biological carbon pumps, says Stubbins. However, he emphasizes that quantifying the impact of this phenomenon remains a challenge. “We are uncovering a variety of plastics throughout the ocean,” he notes.

“We can no longer afford to overlook the insights of chemists and biologists in understanding how vast ocean systems operate,” stated Douglas McCauley from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He believes this research will clarify the discrepancies between estimates of millions of tons of plastic entering the oceans and the actually measured quantities. “Sadly, it’s not vanishing. Instead, it has dispersed throughout the water as microplastics,” he adds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Judge Challenges Apple, Orders It to Ease Control Over the App Store

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A federal judge ruled on Wednesday that Apple must ease its control over the App Store and cease collecting fees for app sales. This decision wraps up a five-year antitrust lawsuit initiated by Epic Games, aimed at redefining Apple’s substantial influence within the digital economy.

Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California criticized Apple for trying to obstruct the previous court ruling and indicated that the company should refrain from appealing further. She specifically condemned Apple CEO Tim Cook and other executives for providing false testimony.

In a prior ruling, Judge Gonzalez Rogers instructed Apple to allow apps to process payments directly, enabling them to provide external links to users and circumvent the 30% fee levied by Apple, potentially resulting in lower costs for consumers.

However, on Wednesday, Judge Gonzalez Rogers asserted that Apple had established a new framework that would mandate external sales apps to pay a 27% commission to the company. Apple also implemented a pop-up notification that warned customers against making payments outside the App Store, suggesting that such transactions might be insecure.

“Apple has attempted to protect billions in revenue by directly opposing this court’s injunction,” Judge Gonzalez Rogers stated.

In response, she indicated that Apple would no longer be able to collect commissions from transactions made outside of the App Store. She also mentioned that she could impose restrictions on developers from creating buttons or links for payments outside the store, and could not issue warnings that deter users from making purchases. Furthermore, Judge Gonzalez Rogers urged federal attorneys to investigate possible criminal actions within the Northern District of California.

This ruling marks a significant shift in the app economy, potentially decreasing costs for Apple while increasing earnings for developers. The App Store, a core element of Apple’s business model, remains a primary venue for downloading mobile games and various applications.

“This opens up opportunities for developers to negotiate better deals, resulting in advantages for consumers as well,” stated Epic CEO Tim Sweeney. “Today is a momentous occasion for everyone involved.”

Apple may contest the ruling. The company has not yet commented, and its stock fell by 1.5% in after-hours trading.

Epic, the developer of Fortnite, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple in 2020. Apple was accused of coercing app developers into using its payment system for App Store access, which is the sole channel for distributing apps on iPhones. This policy enabled Apple to garner as much as 30% from numerous transactions.

The App Store contributes significantly to Apple’s annual service revenue, which is nearly $100 billion.

In a ruling two years later, Judge Gonzalez Rogers stopped short of declaring Apple a monopoly in the mobile gaming sector, thus protecting the company from the most severe consequences of the lawsuit. However, she did find that Apple violated California’s unfair competition laws by hindering developers from providing users with alternative payment methods.

Last year, Epic contended that Apple was not adhering to the ruling due to the implementation of new fees and regulations for developers. The judge mandated that Apple submit documentation clarifying the reasoning behind its revised system.

Internal documents from Apple revealed attempts to obstruct alternative payment options while preserving as many of the traditional 30% fees as possible. During a meeting in July 2023, Phil Schiller, who managed the App Store, asserted that Apple would not charge commission, while Apple’s finance chief, Luca Maestri, defended the newly established 27% fee. Reports indicated that Cook supported Maestri’s position.

Cook also instructed that a “fear” notification be displayed, stating that “Apple privacy and security standards do not apply to purchases made via the web” when a user clicks an external payment link.

“Apple clearly understood its actions and consistently chose the most anti-competitive options,” Judge Gonzalez Rogers remarked.

She accused Apple executives of “lying under oath,” further asserting that “Cook made misguided choices.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Medications Similar to Wegovy Show Effectiveness in Treating Fatty Liver Disease

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fatty liver disease can lead to cirrhosis and cancer

3dmedisphere/shutterstoc k

Currently, common medications used for treating obesity and diabetes are showing promise in combating life-threatening liver diseases.

Semaglutide, marketed under names like Ozempic and Wegovi, mimics the hormone GLP-1, which aids in weight loss and regulates blood sugar levels, helps suppress appetite, and promotes insulin secretion. Researchers have now found that this drug therapy can halt or even reverse a condition known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).

“This could offer a groundbreaking way to manage this condition,” says Philip Newsom from King’s College London. “It’s incredibly promising for patients.”

MASH, formerly known as NASH, is a severe version of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease marked by inflammation, fibrosis (scar tissue formation), and excessive liver fat accumulation, occasionally leading to cirrhosis and cancer. MASH is commonly linked to obesity and often coexists with type 2 diabetes.

A study conducted in 2020 involving 320 participants revealed that daily semaglutide injections led to a reduction in liver fat and inflammation in 59% of those with MASH. However, a more recent investigation involving 71 patients found no benefits from the weekly dosage.

For a broader perspective, Newsom and Arun Sanyal from Virginia Commonwealth University initiated a larger trial involving 1,195 MASH patients across 253 clinical sites in 37 countries. Participants averaged 56 years old with a body mass index of 34.6, and about 50% had type 2 diabetes.

The physician prescribed each participant a weekly semaglutide injection for four and a half years, gradually increasing the dose to 2.4 milligrams over the first four months, mirroring those used in Wegovy based on prior test findings. Participants also received lifestyle counseling to encourage a healthier diet and exercise.

While the full study is ongoing, results from biopsies taken 72 weeks later revealed that among the first 800 patients, including 266 receiving a placebo, 62.9% of those on semaglutide showed significant reductions in liver fat and inflammation, compared to 34.3% in the placebo group. Improvements in fibrosis were observed in 36.8% of the treatment group versus only 22.4% for the placebo group. About one-third of all treated patients and 16.1% of placebo patients experienced these benefits.

Weight loss alone could explain some of these improvements, as patients in the treatment cohort lost an average of 10.5% of their body weight, while those on the placebo lost only 2%. Although further research is needed to fully uncover the mechanisms behind the treatment, it may also directly target the processes driving the disease.

“It’s not yet established, but part of the efficacy of GLP-1-like drugs might be due to their effects on immune cells and reduction of inflammation,” notes Newsom.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Meta Anticipates Continued Growth Despite Tariff Challenges

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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<div data-testid="companionColumn-0"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Meta <a class="css-yywogo" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meta-reports-first-quarter-2025-results-302443250.html" title="" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">announced</a> on Wednesday that it anticipates significant revenue growth in its advertising sector in the upcoming months, despite the challenges posed by President Trump's tariffs on the global economy.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">The Silicon Valley giant, owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, also reported an uptick in both revenue and profits for the first quarter, bolstered by advertising on Instagram and Facebook. However, it noted that it is keeping an eye on a "dynamic regulatory environment" that includes legal issues in both the European Union and the United States.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Data from market analytics firm Factset revealed that revenues for the first quarter reached $42.3 billion, marking a 16% increase from the previous year, outpacing Wall Street's estimate of $41.3 billion. Profits were reported at $16.6 billion, a 35% boost from last year's $12.4 billion, also exceeding the forecast of $13.6 billion.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">For the current quarter, Meta anticipates revenues to range between $42.5 billion and $45.5 billion, with the expected figure of $43.8 billion surpassing Wall Street's projections. The company's stock increased by over 5% in after-hours trading.</p></div><aside class="css-ew4tgv" aria-label="companion column"/></div><div data-testid="companionColumn-1"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">"We’re off to a strong start in a critical year. Our community is expanding, and our business is performing exceptionally well," stated Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Meta's business has shown consistent growth in recent years as it invests in artificial intelligence to provide a diverse array of posts, videos, and advertisements for its users. Zuckerberg indicated that these investments have led to increased engagement with Meta's app and a rise in clicks on relevant ads.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Nonetheless, the company faces new hurdles in the Trump era. President Trump's tariffs pose a potential threat to Meta’s significant initiatives, including a multi-billion dollar investment in infrastructure projects such as data centers, which depend on raw materials affected by these tariffs.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Meta plans to amplify its spending on infrastructure investments. On Wednesday, it adjusted its capital expenditure forecast for the year upwards from $640 billion to $72 billion, reflecting an increase from $6 billion to $65 billion.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Meta confronts critical revenue challenges, as it sells digital advertising to a variety of brands and retailers, both large and small. The more tariffs impact small businesses, the less they may invest in Facebook and Instagram ads.</p></div><aside class="css-ew4tgv" aria-label="companion column"/></div><div data-testid="companionColumn-2"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Trump has imposed the highest tariffs on imports from China, heavily impacting Chinese e-commerce giants like Shein and Tem, which are crucial for Meta's revenue streams. In 2023, Chinese companies constituted 10% of Meta's total revenue.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Additionally, Meta is embroiled in an antitrust trial in Washington regarding whether it unlawfully stifled competition in the social networking space by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp when it was still a startup. The outcome of this multi-week trial, the first significant tech case initiated by the current Trump administration, could reshape the US antitrust landscape and the broader Silicon Valley ecosystem.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Last week, the European Union imposed a 200 million euro ($230 million) fine on Meta for violating the Digital Markets Act, a 2022 legislation aimed at fostering competition in the digital economy.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Wednesday's revenue figures indicate no immediate fallout from advertising related to the tariffs announced in April, which expire in March. The company’s financial outlook implies that brands may keep investing in Facebook and Instagram advertising.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">In contrast, advertisers might cut back on ad spending on smaller platforms such as Reddit, Snapchat, and Pinterest, noted Minda Smiley, a senior social media analyst at eMarketer. She expressed uncertainty about future revenue trajectories.</p></div><aside class="css-ew4tgv" aria-label="companion column"/></div><div data-testid="companionColumn-3"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">"Current business operations are stable," Smiley remarked. "However, there remains uncertainty about the potential impacts in the upcoming quarter."</p></div><aside class="css-ew4tgv" aria-label="companion column"/></div>

Source: www.nytimes.com

Extraordinary Claims Demand Extraordinary Evidence

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Stepping into the Royal Society of London, the UK’s foremost National Academy of Sciences, you’ll encounter a three-word phrase: Nullius in Verba. This motto, held for over 350 years, translates to “I accept no one’s word.” Essentially, trust in science must be based on empirical evidence.

But what qualifies as evidence? This aspect becomes a bit more nuanced. The assertion that the sky is blue can be easily substantiated by anyone who can see it; therefore, little further proof is necessary. However, if someone claims the sky is purple, we’d need a robust explanation for our apparent oversight.

Another famous saying, attributed to astronomer Carl Sagan, encapsulates the demand for solid evidence: “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.” This issue highlights several notable recent examples that fall short of that standard.

The first example resonates strongly with Sagan’s perspective. Recently, astronomers proposed they detected gases potentially indicative of extraterrestrial life in distant exoplanets, but subsequent analysis suggests they may have found nothing. There’s also a significant backlash from biotechnology firm Colossal against the International Union for Conservation of Nature, alleging it “clears” threats to the wolf population.

The work of science is, as always, to dig deeper in hopes of revealing the truth.

There is considerable excitement surrounding these claims, with many hoping they prove true, but unfortunately, they do not hold up. We are committed to accurately reporting substantial claims, as seen in our discussion about the assertion that light is not subject to wave-particle duality, but consists solely of quantum particles.

This is indeed an extraordinary claim, challenging a century of established physics. As we explore, the evidence to substantiate this notion is currently lacking, though physicists remain intrigued enough to pursue further investigation. Without clear evidence disproving the claim, the essence of scientific inquiry remains: to dig deeper in hopes of uncovering the truth or, at the very least, our best approximation.

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Source: www.newscientist.com