Exciting discovery of a new genus and species of neornithischian dinosaur named Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae. This dinosaur is recognized from its three-dimensionally preserved postcranial skeleton unearthed in the Morrison Formation in Colorado, USA.
Life reconstruction of Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae. Image credit: Bob Nichols.
Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae inhabited our planet during the late Jurassic period, approximately 150-145 million years ago.
This dinosaur was a bipedal herbivore standing about 0.5 m (1.6 feet) tall and measuring over 1 m (3.3 feet) in length.
It would have navigated the floodplains of the western United States alongside giants like diplodocus and Stegosaurus.
“There are indications that these dinosaurs are not fully mature. The upper vertebrae (neuronal arch) are formed separately and fused at the lower section, suggesting incomplete fusion,” noted Paul Barrett, a paleontologist at the Museum of Natural History in London, alongside Susannah Maidment.
The partial but well-preserved skeletons, along with several associated teeth, were excavated in 2021 and 2022 from a commercial quarry in Moffat County, Colorado, within the Morrison Formation.
Initially, this specimen was classified as Nanosaurus, a lesser-known herbivorous dinosaur first named in the 1870s.
However, upon thorough examination, paleontologists determined that the original Nanosaurus specimen was too poorly preserved to serve as a reliable reference for identification.
As a result, they set aside the name until higher quality fossils of Nanosaurus could ensure taxonomic stability.
The differences between the original and newly found specimens confirmed the classification as a new genus and species.
“The discovery of Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae enhances our understanding of the diversity of ornithischian dinosaurs from the Morrison Formation and provides new insights into their anatomy,” researchers explained.
“Moreover, it highlights a previously unrecognized diversity among the small Morrisonian dinosaurs, suggesting they represent a more diverse component of these late Jurassic ecosystems than previously acknowledged.”
A paper detailing Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae was published this week in the journal Royal Society Open Science.
____
Susanna CR Maid & Paul M. Barrett. 2025. Enigmacursor Mollyborthwickae, a neornithischian dinosaur from the Jurassic Morrison Formation in the western United States. R. Soc. Open Sci. 12(6): 242195; doi: 10.1098/rsos.242195
Paleontologists have studied the body shapes of Ediacaran Cambrian organisms by utilizing trace fossils as a stand-in for body fossils.
Reconstruction of early Cambrian marine life in southern China. Image credit: Dongjing Fu.
The Cambrian explosion is often referred to as a pivotal period in Earth’s history when distinct animal body plans emerged.
Most researchers indicate that this event took place between 541 and 530 million years ago, marking the onset of the Cambrian period.
“The Cambrian explosion represents a significant era in the history of life that poses numerous unresolved questions,” stated Dr. Olmo Miguez Saras from the University of Barcelona at the Museum of Natural History in London, alongside Dr. Zekun Wang.
“In investigating biodiversity during this period, paleontological studies primarily concentrate on organisms with hard structures.”
“Nevertheless, microfossil investigations open avenues for understanding the activities of hard, soft-bodied, or skeletal-deficient organisms preserved in stratigraphic records.”
“The microfossil evidence is essential for shedding light on the evolutionary phases dominated by soft-bodied faunas.”
“Fossil traces mirror the behaviors of habitat-forming organisms, determined by their environment and reactions to ecological factors.”
“Consequently, these traces act as indicators of the paleoecological conditions experienced by the organisms that produced them.”
In their research, the authors concentrated on trace fossils from the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition, a period of great paleobiological interest that represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of complex life on Earth.
This transition experienced substantial shifts in biodiversity as well as the structure of organisms and ecosystems.
“The Ediacaran fauna consisted mainly of complex, multicellular, flexible organisms,” noted Dr. Miguez Saras.
“The shift to the Cambrian era involved numerous extinctions within the Ediacaran fauna, accompanied by a rapid diversification of complex multicellular organisms possessing hard structures (e.g., exoskeletons).”
“This encapsulates the core of evolutionary development that led to the emergence of the most modern animal phyla, commonly referred to as the Cambrian Explosion.”
The research indicates that slender-bodied organisms thrived around 545 million years ago during the Ediacaran period.
“These organisms likely possessed a coelomic hydrostatic body with an anteroposterior axis, muscles, and perhaps segmented structures,” Dr. Miguez Saras explained.
“Additionally, these organisms may have exhibited directional movement and possessed sensory capabilities to navigate and feed on diverse substrates in environments dominated by microbial mats.”
“Thus, the so-called Cambrian explosion and its evolutionary significance could have arisen significantly earlier than previously thought.”
“These adaptations in body shape and mobility facilitated early animals in thriving within increasingly dynamic and complex environments, an ecological engineering process that could spur evolutionary innovation.”
The team’s study is slated for publication in the journal Geological.
____
Zekun Wang & Olmo Miguez-Salas. Quantitative decoding of Ediacaran Motion Microfossil Morphology: Evidence for the appearance of elongated anteroposterior body profiles. Geological Published online on June 9th, 2025. doi: 10.1130/g53332.1
A fireball was spotted soaring through the sky in the southeastern United States on Thursday afternoon, coinciding with reports of a meteor shower in the region, according to officials.
A representative from Forsyth County Emergency Management in Georgia stated that the meteor shower, validated by the National Weather Service, was still visible hours after the initial sighting.
The representative noted that there have been no reports of impacts or injuries, and monitoring of the showers is ongoing.
Earlier, the National Weather Service office in Charleston indicated that just before noon, there were “numerous reports of fireballs” across the area.
“While it’s not confirmed, satellite-based lightning detection indicated markings in the clear sky above the NC/VA border in Gasbury, Virginia,” reported between 11:51 am and 11:56 am the weather service noted at the time.
A video circulating on social media displays a fireball descending into a wooded area in South Carolina.
Kathryn Far posted a dashcam video taken while driving south on Interstate 85 toward Anderson, South Carolina, around 12:25 pm.
A video shared on social media shows a fireball being shot down into a wooded area of South Carolina. Kathryn Rose Fur via Facebook
Another perspective from Andrew Colley Road in Lexington, South Carolina depicted suspected meteor stones blazing bright white with an orange flame tail before vanishing into a wooded area.
The Newton County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia reported that the weather department has informed them that the fireball is likely a meteor.
“Currently, there is no information on where the meteor may have landed.” The sheriff’s office stated, noting that fireballs have been reported by residents in Covington and nearby areas.
Marlene Lenthang
Marlene Lenthang is a news reporter for NBC News Digital.
Canadian Nuvvuagittuq Green Stone Belt may contain the world’s oldest rock
Jonathan O’Neill
About four billion years ago, magma from Earth’s mantle intruded the primitive crust of a nascent planet. Over the next period, nearly all of the planet’s early crust melted back into the mantle, leaving behind a small remnant near the site of this intrusion that still exists today.
This remnant is part of the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt along Hudson Bay’s coast in Canada. Recent analyses of the rock’s radioisotope signatures have sparked debates among geologists about whether it is indeed the oldest rock on Earth or simply very ancient.
In a study published in 2008, Jonathan O’Neill from the University of Ottawa and his team posited that the surrounding rocks could be as old as 4.3 billion years, dating back to the Hadean eon—just a few hundred million years after Earth’s formation.
While there have been discoveries of older mineral grains, these ancient Hadean rocks provide critical insights into Earth’s formative years, possibly shedding light on geological enigmas like the onset of plate tectonics and early ocean compositions.
The method used for dating the rocks has drawn controversy, particularly regarding the claimed age of 4.3 billion years. Traditionally, old rocks are dated utilizing a robust mineral known as zircon, but these volcanic rocks lack zircon. “No one can date these rocks using the popular techniques,” O’Neill remarks.
Instead, researchers analyzed the isotopes of neodymium and samarium within the rock. As samarium decays, it generates different isotopes of neodymium at predictable rates, allowing the ratio of isotopes to serve as a “clock” marking the time since the rock crystallized from magma. Interestingly, two isotopes of samarium can decay at differing rates, acting as two parallel chronometers. Disagreement arose among researchers about whether the rock was genuinely Hadean, as the two clocks provided inconsistent age estimates.
“I’m not convinced that most of the early Earth research community agrees,” states Richard Walker at the University of Maryland.
Currently, O’Neill’s team is assessing the neodymium and samarium isotopes in the rock formations dating back 4.3 billion years. By definition, such intrusions are younger than the surrounding rock layers, implying that dating an intrusion yields the minimum age for the enclosing rocks.
Detailed view of the Canada Nuvvuagittuq Green Stone Belt
David Hutt/Alamy
In the findings, the two chronological indicators tell the same tale, indicating the rocks’ age to be approximately 4.16 billion years. “Both clocks yield identical results,” O’Neill states. This consistency bolsters the theory that the surrounding rocks were indeed solidified during the Hadean eon, making them potentially the only known remnants of Earth’s ancient crust.
“I believe they present the strongest argument possible,” asserts Graham Pierson from the University of Alberta, Canada.
“The simplest interpretation of this data is that these represent the oldest rocks on Earth,” says Jesse Reimink at Pennsylvania State University. Nevertheless, he cautions that this may not be the final word on the subject, stating, “When it comes to the oldest rocks and minerals, absolute certainty is hard to come by.”
A deep nap could improve one’s capacity for creative problem-solving.
A recent study revealed that individuals are more likely to experience a “Eureka” moment after entering the second stage of sleep—characterized by slower brain activity and bursts of electrical discharges known as sleep spindles—compared to those who have light sleep.
The results suggest that brief, deep naps can lead to valuable insights. Annika Rowe from the Max Planck Institute in Berlin notes, “We are uncovering what actually occurs during sleep, which I believe is quite beneficial.” She added, “During deep sleep, our brains may process irrelevant information related to the problem, enabling us to have these insightful moments upon waking.”
While previous research highlights that naps can enhance creativity and problem-solving, opinions vary regarding which sleep stages are most beneficial. Some argue that the lightest non-REM stage, N1, is best—citing how Thomas Edison embraced ideas while holding a steel ball that would audibly drop, waking him from deeper slumber. In contrast, some studies advocate that deeper N2 sleep (even lighter N3) fosters greater innovation.
To explore this further, Löwe and her team engaged 90 healthy participants aged 18-35 in a task where they classified the movement direction of rapidly flashing dot patterns on a screen, without informing them that the dot colors would gradually hint at correct answers.
Fifteen participants chose shortcuts in the first 25 minutes, while the remaining 75 were invited to take a 20-minute nap in a quiet setting, monitoring their brain activity with an EEG.
After napping, participants revisited the task. This time, most recognized color-based shortcuts, although the likelihood of a “Eureka” moment appeared to hinge on having napped. Among the 68 participants yielding quality EEG data, 85.7% who entered deeper N2 sleep recognized shortcuts.
This research distinctly illustrates that deeper sleep can trigger “Eureka” moments—at least for the specific task used. Itamar Rana from the University of Texas, San Antonio states, “The task type heavily influences whether sleep enhances performance.” ”
Delphine Oudiette from the Paris Brain Institute mentions that varying task designs might explain their findings of significant problem-solving post N1 sleep. “Both sleep stages could be significant, but different cognitive processes may necessitate isolation for a clearer understanding,” she points out.
Björn Rasch at the University of Fribourg in Switzerland notes that the findings support the notion that deeper sleep aids problem-solving, but cautions that the study’s design complicates distinguishing between causation and coincidence. Participants were not randomly assigned to sleep stages and were not studied across various sleep scenarios; thus, those who napped comfortably might simply possess a higher insight capacity.
Certain ash trees exhibit genetic variations that offer partial resistance to ash dieback
FLPA/Alamy
British ash trees are evolving resistant traits to combat ash dieback, evident from DNA sequences found in numerous specimens.
This discovery is promising, according to Richard Buggs at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England, although complete resistance in ash trees is not anticipated soon. “A breeding program may be necessary to assist nature in this process,” he states.
Ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, progressively impairs the tree’s capacity to transport water. It began its spread across Europe in the 1990s and made its way to the UK in 2012.
The demise of ash trees leads to increased carbon dioxide release and threatens various species that depend on these trees for their ecosystem. Additionally, fallen trees pose risks to people and property. “There are numerous ash trees close to footpaths and roads, creating significant hazards,” Buggs notes.
Buggs’ team compared genomes of 128 adult European ash trees. Since fungi take considerably longer to kill mature trees than younger ones (Fraxinus excelsior), this also included 458 seedlings at a location called Marden Park in Surrey. They discovered thousands of variations previously linked to resistance were more prevalent in younger trees, likely because those without such variations perished.
This study provides the most comprehensive genetic insight into evolutionary responses observed in nature. “The significance of this research is its ability to characterize the genetic foundation and demonstrate the changes occurring within a single generation,” Buggs explains.
However, each gene variant offers only a marginal effect, failing to provide complete resistance. As the older ash trees diminish and fungal spores decrease, the rate of evolutionary change may also slow in the future. This indicates that younger ash trees might have better survival prospects, Buggs suggests.
“It poses a major challenge, but these trees won’t vanish entirely,” he remarks. “Our findings inspire hope that some of these younger ash trees may mature and undergo natural selection for subsequent generations, if feasible.”
Ash dieback has yet to invade North America; however, the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) has been introduced, actively decimating ash tree populations there. The outcome of both ash dieback and the emerald ash borer coexisting in the same region remains uncertain but might exacerbate the issue.
“Globalization is mixing insects and pathogens across the globe, leading to increasing challenges for these trees, and it is becoming increasingly difficult for them to adapt,” Buggs states. “Trees now face threats they have never experienced before, and at unprecedented speeds.”
He believes interventions are essential to help trees withstand these pressures, such as creating resistant hybrids between resilient species and native trees.
“One potential solution is to enhance the genetic diversity of trees globally, keeping pace with the array of pests and pathogens we are spreading,” he concludes.
What does it mean to lose your home because of climate change? About 10,000 residents of Tuvalu will soon find out.
With an average elevation of less than 3 meters, Tuvalu is on the brink of becoming uninhabitable due to floods, storm surges, and erosion. By 2100, a predicted rise in sea levels of 72 centimeters could result in one-third of the Coral Atoll Archipelago being submerged annually.
Yet, there are escape options for the people of Tuvalu. In late 2023, the Australian government revealed plans for the world’s first organized migration program.
Under the Australian-Tuvalu-Falapilli Union Treaty, 280 Tuvaluans will be granted residency in Australia each year through a lottery system. The inaugural lottery opened on June 16 and received applications from 3,125 citizens—nearly a third of Tuvalu’s population. Registration for this year’s lottery closes on July 18.
In a statement to New Scientist, the Australian government acknowledged the “devastating effects of climate change, especially in the Pacific, which faces challenges related to climate, security, and wellbeing.”
“This is the first agreement of its kind globally, offering a dignified migration pathway as climate conditions worsen,” the government commented.
Successful lottery applicants will learn their results by the end of July, with the first migrants likely to arrive in Australia by year-end.
Bateteba Aselu, a PhD student at the University of Melbourne, examines the climate challenges facing her people. On a student visa in Australia, Aselu is considering applying for the lottery to join her husband, while her son, a recent high school graduate, has already submitted his application.
Aselu notes that the impacts of climate change are visible, as the freshwater aquifers critical for agriculture and drinking water are becoming saline due to rising sea levels. This forces residents to uproot crops in an attempt to mitigate saltwater intrusion.
Stephen Howes from the Australian National University in Canberra describes the new visa as “very progressive,” providing successful applicants access to nearly all Australian health and welfare benefits without discrimination based on chronic health conditions, disabilities, age, or other factors.
While ostensibly aimed at aiding Tuvalu in the face of a climate crisis, Howes asserts that Australia’s initiative also serves to counteract China’s influence in the Pacific. The treaty outlines that Australia and Tuvalu “must collaborate on security and defense matters pertaining to the island nations and external countries.”
“I view it as a security transition agreement,” Howes explains. “Climate change serves as a backdrop, but the arrangement essentially provides Australia with enhanced security cooperation in return for offering Tuvalu a unique migration pathway.”
Tuvaluans engaging in traditional fishing
Mick Tsikas/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
Jane McAdam at the University of New South Wales in Sydney reports varied perspectives on the future among Tuvaluans. Some believe the island will soon be submerged, while others hold hope. She notes that elderly residents express a desire to remain there until their last days.
However, McAdam considers the new migration program to be a “fair and constructive” initiative. A key feature is that once Tuvaluans secure a visa, they can return home whenever they wish or even live there until conditions become unbearable.
It’s “like having an oxygen mask on an airplane,” McAdam adds. “Ideally, you won’t need it, but you’ll be grateful it exists.”
Wesley Morgan, also at the University of New South Wales, remarked that, should conditions worsen, Tuvaluans face limited escape routes. This agreement could pave the way for similar opportunities for other at-risk nations like Kiribati.
“This could set a precedent as the first instance where migration pathways are explicitly linked to climate change and rising sea levels,” Morgan states. “Given these unique circumstances, Australia might explore comparable arrangements with Kiribati in the future.”
A remaining concern for the Tuvaluan population is how they will navigate their identity and sovereignty once they leave the island. Will they be considered a Tuvaluan diaspora or a nation in climate exile?
“If you had to leave your childhood home due to circumstances beyond your control, how would it feel?” Aselu asks. “Would you feel lost? Absolutely. It’s that sentiment of losing a cherished place that defines who you are, regardless of where you are in the world.”
“You grow up there; your history resides there. It’s where your identity is rooted, no matter where you go afterwards.”
“When I think about the future of robots and society, I don’t see machine overlords.”
Miguel Medina/AFP via Getty Images
Are you concerned that AI-driven robots might take our jobs or even pose a threat? You’re not alone. Yet, this fear invites a critical examination of whether the opposite might be true.
In my upcoming novel, Automatic Noodles, set to release later this year, I introduce four robots battling to secure jobs in a country where laws prevent them from unionizing, securing bank accounts, voting, or owning businesses. Although it’s a work of science fiction, it’s grounded in existing technology and delves into our fundamental anxieties about robots.
For years, I have written non-fiction on actual robotics, interviewing engineers and industry professionals to understand future advancements. Recently, I visited Yale University’s groundbreaking lab, the Faboratory, led by Rebecca Kramer-Bottiglio, where her team is developing soft robots. These include flexible, squishy creatures with circuits made of liquid metal. One such robot can swim like a turtle, aiding in environmental monitoring of wetlands. Another, named Tensegrity, resembles a cluster of plastic sticks connected by elastic bands, bouncing back when dropped to explore its surroundings.
Medha Goyal and researchers in the Faboratory showcased a tiny liquid ball that expands when warmed. These “Granular actuators” can be incorporated into robots to create varying rigidity and softness in their limbs. They also hold significant medical potential, enabling small robots to deliver medication or diagnose health issues.
Kramer-Bottiglio and her team are challenging traditional notions of robotics. Tomorrow’s bots may not resemble towering humanoids; instead, they could be softer, using air pressure instead of metal mechanics. Notably, one of my book’s characters is an octopus-like soft robot designed for underwater searches and rescues, aptly named Cayenne, equipped with sensors on its arms that allow it to interpret flavors.
Tomorrow’s bots probably won’t resemble gigantic humanoids; they might instead be soft little beings.
When you envision the future of robotics, you might picture something akin to Cayenne. All they and their robotic companions aspire to is to operate a noodle restaurant in San Francisco. Their crew includes Sweety, a three-legged wheeled bot, alongside a basic mixer with two arms and Staybehind, a humanoid soldier bot more interested in decorating the restaurant than fighting.
This makeshift family inhabits a remarkable era of human history. In the 2060s, California’s government decided that certain AI-powered robots should be regarded as individuals. However, officials worry that granting robots the same rights as humans could lead to an uncontrollable influx of robots dominating society. Thus, they have restricted essential rights “for their own good,” assuring the public that a vote could eventually expand robot rights.
Despite what their human counterparts fear, Cayenne and its companions do not seek dominance. They simply wish to pursue their passions. Rather than producing mediocre meals for distant human masters, they aspire to create what they genuinely care about. They symbolize immigrants in a new land, often viewed with skepticism, and at worst, they struggle to survive in a society that wishes them ill.
I’m intentionally drawing this parallel because it’s disconcerting how the fears surrounding immigration resonate with our anxieties about robots. We worry they will usurp our jobs, rise up against us, or disrupt cultural norms. Amazingly, those who voice such concerns about immigration often have never taken the time to understand the immigrants. Similarly, society projects those fears onto robots that do not yet exist. This reflects a troubling pattern: fearing those we don’t know or understand, and in the case of robots, not recognizing their potential.
This is why I do not envision a dystopian future dominated by machines when I think about robots and our society. Instead, I see a reality clouded by terrifying fantasies and restrictive laws. Rather than fearsome terminators, I imagine gentle, soft-bodied creatures like turtles and pneumatic arms. I’m observing Cayenne, apprehensive about human animosity and the vigilance against robot “threats.”
Humans craft narratives to brace for an unlikely future while often ignoring the realities unfolding right before us. Yet, we don’t have to follow this trend. We can develop our understanding based on empirical evidence and science, rather than indulging in surreal nightmares that will likely never materialize.
Annaly’s Week
What I’m reading
Torchon Ebuchi Racebook: A Personal History of the Internet, An engaging compilation of essays exploring cosplay, video games, and social media.
What I’m watching
Murder Bot, for sure.
What I’m working on
I’m wandering with an archaeologist through the Roman town of Talos in Sardinia, Italy. More details to come!
Annalee Newitz is a science journalist and author of the latest book, *Automatic Noodles*. They co-host the Hugo Award-winning podcast, *We Are Right*. Follow them @annaleen or visit their website at techsploitation.com.
The Arts and Science of Writing Science Fiction
Explore the realm of science fiction and discover the art of crafting your own captivating stories during this immersive weekend workshop.
Feedback provides the latest science and technology news from New Scientist, highlighting interesting items. You can reach out to Feedback@newscientist.com with stories that might intrigue readers.
Curious Connections
Earlier this year, feedback sought an example of “No kidding, Sherlock.” Reader Roger Eldem requested evidence supporting the claim that inadequate rest increases the risk of injury during prolonged tasks.
Feedback acknowledges that political differences can create tension in relationships. When did we start selecting partners solely by looks and style?
On the theme of problematic relationships, Roger shares another notable discovery from the 2016 Journal PLOS 1 titled Sexually cannibalistic behavior in colonial spider species. It discusses the dynamics of these spiders, where females often consume males post-mating. Research highlights that males may be choosy about their partners, preferring younger, more robust females.
No apologies here; feedback maintains its critical stance. The complexities are not as straightforward as they seem. Researchers indicate that males in solitary species may not be selected for, as they rarely encounter females, thus opting not to risk decapitation during mating. This contrasts with social species that carefully select males before sacrificing them for reproduction.
Clearly, many instances of “No kidding, Sherlock” exist. Can others find more examples? New insights are always welcome.
Disproven Fiction
As a long-time science fiction reader, Feedback enjoys revisiting stories that are now outdated. These narratives often held plausible premises that have since become unlikely or completely impossible.
Sometimes, what was once considered a “prediction” has been surpassed by time. For instance, Blade Runner was released in 1982 and set in 2019. Now, well over six years have passed since that date, with flying cars still absent. However, the film accurately portrayed the pitfalls of tech billionaires. Depending on your perspective, whether you subscribe to Star Trek or Terminator, the late 1990s were supposed to be defined by either superhumans born from eugenics or nuclear devastation.
We would like to highlight another phenomenon: groundbreaking scientific findings that undermine significant story premises. For example, World War discoveries previously attributed to the apparent absence of life on Mars.
A similar scenario unfolds in Revelation Space, a book by Alastair Reynolds. Feedback still cherishes these novels, and anyone who hasn’t delved into them should stop reading now.
The narrative revolves around the eventual clash between our galaxy and the Andromeda galaxy billions of years from now. Consequently, humanity is perceived to be limited by Inhibitors that restrict intellectual life until the crisis resolves.
However, on June 2nd, Natural Astronomy published a paper under an unexciting title: Uncertainty in Milky Way and Andromeda Collision. Researchers simulated the movements of galaxies within the local cluster and concluded that the current positioning and mass of galaxies leave room for dramatically different potential outcomes. They assert that “the fate of our galaxy remains completely open.”
Readers are encouraged to share other recent discoveries that have subverted plausible science fiction narratives.
More from GS
In the London Centric Newsletter, readers will uncover “The Real 5G Conspiracy: How Londoners Misrepresent Their Phone Signals“. The article addresses how, despite high mobile coverage signals, functional data download capabilities are absent. Londoners may claim to be connected to modern 5G networks, yet they lead lives devoid of 4G awareness.
The article was inspired by an app creator named SignalTracker, who tests various networks while roaming around London “with five different mobile phones.”
Capitalism continues to evolve. Reader Brian Darvel has drawn our attention to this mobile detective, Martin Sims.
Have you shared your feedback?
You can send your stories to feedback@newscientist.com, including your home address. Previous and current feedback can be found on our website.
Wavy polar jet streams can lead to icy storms extending further south
Images of the history of science / Alamy Stock Photos
Recent studies indicate that the increasingly erratic winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere is not solely due to more pronounced wavy polar jet streams.
The Arctic jet stream functions as a wind current that helps to maintain the balance between temperate and cold air in the Arctic region.
For over a decade, some researchers have engaged in discussions regarding the effects of the warm Arctic on the jet stream. This warming has reportedly intensified in winter, leading to severe storms that carry snow and ice much further south than usual. However, doubts persist about this theory.
Testing this hypothesis has proven challenging due to limited satellite data and the natural fluctuations of the jet stream during winter.
Researchers like Erich Osterberg from Dartmouth University have sought to determine whether the recent behavior of the jet stream deviates from the long-term average.
Since satellite observations of the jet stream began only in 1979, researchers leveraged temperature and atmospheric pressure data extending back to 1901 to reconstruct the movement of polar jets across the United States throughout the 20th century.
They discovered that polar jets exhibited wave-like patterns during various periods, indicating that the current erratic behavior may not be unprecedented. In fact, at times, the winter jet stream was even more undulating than it is today. “What we’re observing with the jet stream now is not particularly unusual when you consider the broader context of the 20th century,” Osterberg states.
The winters in the Northern Hemisphere are becoming warmer and wetter, a trend emphasized by Osterberg even as climate change continues to provoke more severe storms and precipitation. “It’s evident that climate change is influencing extreme weather events significantly,” he remarks. “However, in the context of winter jet streams, these changes don’t appear to be a fundamental factor.”
Similarly, Tim Woolling from Oxford University highlights the importance of long-term data in identifying shifts in polar jet stream behavior, noting its significant variability in the short to medium term. “Utilizing extensive data records and diverse methodologies reveals that today’s North American winter jet patterns are not necessarily worse than in previous decades,” he explains.
Contrastingly, during the Northern Hemisphere summer, emerging evidence suggests that climate change has elevated tropical temperatures, leading to broader polar waves in warmer months. “In summer, it seems that the jet stream undergoes a fundamental shift in behavior, with larger waves leading to intense heat waves, droughts, and wildfires,” Osterberg adds. “This phenomenon appears to be linked to climate change.”
Enthusiasts of Marvel movies and comics might recognize the tale of Thor’s Hammer, Mjolnir. This metal was crafted from the core of a dying star. While the power of the God of Thunder is not accessible to anyone, some of the heavy metals around us might originate from a long-dormant planet.
Similar to living beings, stars experience a life cycle. For stars with less than about 10 times the mass of the sun, the concluding phase is a White Dwarf. At this point, stars are compressed to the density of Earth and reach temperatures of around 100,000 Kelvin, approximately 100,000°C or 180,000°F. Unlike other stars, they cease to fuse elements in their cores for energy. Instead, they maintain their structure through Quantum mechanical principles and slowly release heat. This is why scientists often refer to white dwarfs as The dead star.
Nevertheless, under certain conditions, a white dwarf can experience one last surge of energy. There exists a limit to a white dwarf’s size, specifically 1.4 times the mass of the sun. If a star exceeds this threshold, gravitational forces can overpower its structural support, caused either by accumulating surrounding gas and dust or by merging with another white dwarf. This rapid compression ignites a chain reaction of fusion, culminating in an explosion known as a Type IA Supernova. Researchers estimate that such an explosion occurs in the Milky Way every 100-700 years.
A group of astrophysicists aimed to explore this phenomenon along with a rarer alternative. If a star is spinning while accumulating material, it can collapse into something even denser, a Neutron Star, and eject excess material without undergoing an explosion. The team simulated the aftermath of six different scenarios where the white dwarf collapsed after surpassing the size limit, known as Post Bounce. In these simulations, they adjusted various parameters, such as speed, width, temperature, and size thresholds of the white dwarfs.
They then controlled the initial conditions, including the mass of the white dwarf. Alkar simulated the behavior of low-energy particles referred to as liquid physics Neutrino 2D. Given the computational demands, astrophysicists typically simulate only a fraction of a second of post-bounce behavior. However, this team extended their simulation to 4.5-7 seconds to gain a deeper understanding of how ejected layers from white dwarfs behave.
The simulated white dwarf quickly collapsed, transitioning from a slower rate of 0.8 seconds to a rapid 0.04 seconds. The scenario diverged, with the unspinning white dwarf erupting into a supernova, while the spinning white dwarf transformed into a neutron star. In this latter case, the remnants of the stars were so densely packed that neutrinos collided with them, heating them up and ejecting them from the star.
The focus then shifted to the ejected material. The mass of material expelled ranged from 0.005 times to 0.05 times the mass of the sun, equivalent to about 1,700 to 17,000 Earth masses. Heavier elements like nickel can form during this process.
The researchers concluded that the outer layers ejected from collapsing white dwarfs could change rapidly during these events. They discovered that the material released was initially rich in protons and formed lighter elements but later became enriched in neutrons and heavier elements.
The team recommended developing more advanced 3D models of white dwarfs prior to their collapse for future studies. They suggested that astrophysicists could utilize these models to estimate the contribution of elements in the solar system originating from white dwarf collapses.
“It’s 19 feet ahead,” announced the robotic voice from an iPhone held by Moshfik Ahmed, as he navigated through London’s Road Cricket Field in search of a seat.
“Up the stairs,” directed Ahmed, an English cricketer with visual impairment, as he tapped a white cane on his way to the Edrich Stand without any external assistance. “There’s one landing. We’re positioned at 9 o’clock at the base of the stairs. We’ve reached the fifth row.”
Ahmed was among the first to test the newly installed Wayfinding technology at Lord’s, designed for blind and partially sighted individuals, enabling disabled fans to enjoy live sports.
Waymap, the company behind this app-based navigation tool, asserts that the 31,000-seat cricket stadium is the first sports venue worldwide to offer personal GPS, specifically tailored to manage traffic in stadiums, shopping centers, and transportation systems.
Utilizing a £50,000 camera, Waymap meticulously mapped stairs, corridors, inclines, entrances, and concourses to develop a digital twin of this historic cricket ground, allowing the app to navigate users by meter precision.
This technology was implemented ahead of next month’s Test match between England and India. The Marylebone Cricket Club, which manages the venue, believes it can assist other cricket enthusiasts in discovering the most accessible routes throughout the premises.
“The concept is fantastic for the visually impaired,” said Ahmed, who tried the app upon the Guardian’s invitation after participating in a showcase match on Wednesday. “If it functions flawlessly, I can navigate to the station independently, cross the street by myself, arrive at the stadium, and find my way using the app. I know many sports enthusiasts who are visually impaired. This will make it completely accessible for them.”
Moshfik Ahmed at the cricket grounds on the road. Photo: Sean Smith/Guardian
It was Ahmed’s first experience with the app, which had some initial hiccups. At times, it mistakenly suggested he head in the wrong direction, pointing him to temporarily closed stairs, and even guided him to row 20 of the Edrich Stand instead of column 5.
However, it seemed that both the app and the user were still in the adaptation phase. For instance, the app should be customized to reflect the individual user’s walking pattern, which could clarify the misdirection he experienced.
“It must be precise and dependable,” stated Ahmed, who lost most of his vision in 2017.
“We’re dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience,” said Celso Zuccollo, CEO of WayMap. “WayMap represents a novel navigation approach. It usually requires multiple visits to fully grasp how to use the app effectively.”
“The objective is likely to extend this technology to venues like Wembley, various football stadiums, and we are in discussions with horse racing tracks,” he added.
Existing apps available for users of the Washington, DC public transport system do not adequately alert users to the movements of people around them, particularly those whom Ahmed noted can pose significant challenges in maneuvering safely and comfortably.
Sweltering and humid conditions have impacted nearly the entire eastern U.S. this week, triggered by “heat domes” settling over various regions.
On Wednesday, a heat advisory impacted approximately 150 million individuals, with temperatures exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit spreading through the Ohio Valley and along the East Coast. The National Weather Service predicts that “extremely dangerous heat” will persist until Thursday.
But what exactly is a heat dome, and how does it contribute to extreme heat?
Heat domes form when a strong high-pressure system remains stationary over an area, trapping warm air underneath like a lid on a pot.
These thermal domes are typically influenced by the jet stream’s behavior. The jet stream is a fast-moving ribbon of air that flows from west to east in the Northern Hemisphere, impacting weather patterns.
The jet stream is powered by the temperature disparity between the chilly polar regions and warm southern air masses. As it travels around the globe, it can create ripples that form troughs and ridges, leading to unusual weather phenomena.
For instance, certain ripples can intensify cold snaps, while others can move and amplify heat, resulting in higher humidity levels.
Heat domes can persist for days or even weeks, contributing to prolonged heat waves that can be deadly. Heat-related illnesses and fatalities can impact individuals of all ages, but children, those with pre-existing health conditions, and older adults are especially vulnerable to sudden temperature spikes.
Research indicates that climate change is increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heat waves globally. The hottest years on record since 1850 have all occurred within the last decade, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Some respite is anticipated later this week across the Midwest and East Coast, although temperatures are expected to remain high in the days ahead.
For many years, climate scientists and advocates have held onto a sense of optimism. They believe that once the impacts of global warming become undeniable, both individuals and governments will take significant action. The hope is that a major disaster—whether it be a fierce hurricane, extreme heat, or widespread flooding—will force a collective recognition of the gravity of the issue and lead to meaningful change. However, despite the increasing frequency of such disasters, climate change continues to rank low on voters’ agendas, and effective policy responses remain elusive.
This widespread inaction is often attributed to various political or structural barriers. Yet, decades of psychological studies indicate that more profound factors may be at play. The human brain often fails to recognize gradual changes.
Many areas are experiencing severe climate-related issues, but for the majority of the world, the changes manifest as slow and subtle shifts in daily weather.
This gradual nature of change presents challenges. People primarily assess climate issues based on personal experiences: there’s a heightened concern for an unusually hot day than when the weather feels typical. However, as conditions quietly worsen, the perception of “normalcy” shifts. This is often referred to as the boiling frog effect, where subtle and gradual changes fail to trigger alarm bells, leading to a state of indifference: akin to a frog in a pot of water that is gradually heated.
In 2020, we researched climate impacts in Princeton, New Jersey. This area is not burdened by wildfires or droughts, but it has seen a loss of something significant: winter ice skating. For many years, Carnegie Lake would freeze enough for skating, but now it seldom does.
Conversations with long-time residents and a review of local newspaper archives revealed a marked decline in ice skating on the lake over the last century, evoking a sense of loss. This disruption to winter traditions made Princeton’s experience with climate change feel more immediate, tangible, and personal.
We then posed the question: could binary climate indicators—such as “Lake Frozen” vs. “Lake Not Frozen”—serve as more effective alerts than graphs depicting gradual temperature increases?
I explored this concept through a series of experiments. Participants were presented with one of two graphs. One illustrated rising winter temperatures in a fictional town, while the other depicted whether the lake froze each year. Notably, both graphs represented the same underlying climate trends, but reactions varied significantly.
Those who viewed the binary “freeze or not” graphs consistently acknowledged that climate change had a more substantial impact compared to those who saw the temperature graphs. Follow-up studies analyzing data from North American and European lakes corroborated these findings. When climate impacts were communicated in stark terms, individuals responded more seriously.
What motivated this difference? We discovered that binary data creates an impression of sudden shifts. When people observed a series of winters where the lake froze juxtaposed with years it didn’t, they perceived a distinct “before” and “after,” despite the gradual nature of change.
Climate change transcends mere physical challenges; it also encompasses psychological dimensions. As long as we convey it in ways that resonate, we risk desensitizing our warning signals until it’s too late.
We encourage policymakers, journalists, and educators to leverage these insights. Highlighting specific losses that resonate—such as winters without ice skating, drought-damaged harvests, and summers plagued by wildfires—can be impactful. Utilize visuals that contrast “what we had” with “what we’ve lost.”
Allow people to witness the changes—it’s not merely about the slope of the line.
Grace Lew is affiliated with Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania, while Lachitt Dubay is affiliated with UCLA.
In April, game developer Stamina Zero made a significant marketing move with the launch trailer for their game, Little Droid, available on PlayStation’s official YouTube channel. The developers were taken aback by the reaction; while many found the game intriguing, it was “smashed down” by claims of AI-generated art. However, the cover art, featured in its YouTube thumbnail, was indeed created by a person. Developer Lana Ro stated, “We know the artist and have seen her work, so this negative feedback was unexpected. Initially, we were unsure how to react; it left us confused.”
There’s validity in people’s concerns regarding AI in video games. It’s important to ensure that the media you support aligns with your values. Discussions surrounding generative AI often touch on environmental impact, art theft, and overall quality. Video game developers are navigating how generative AI influences their work. However, the unexpected issue is the strong aversion to generative AI now translating to “Please don’t use it.” Veteran game developer Josh Caratelli, Digital Director of Chess Plus, remarked, “I’m all for caution, but collateral damage can be painful.”
Karatelli and his game, Chess Plus, faced a similar backlash when he shared art on Reddit, explicitly stating it was created without AI assistance. However, he received comments and messages accusing him of dishonesty or suggesting he was deceived. “It’s clearly handcrafted,” he asserted. “We spent a substantial amount to hire an indie artist for the artwork; it was a worthy investment.”
Darth Vader will be appearing in Epic Games’ Fortnite. Photo: Epic Games/Disney/Lucasfilm
Increasingly, games are being scrutinized for instances perceived as AI replacing human labor. (Epic Games has recently faced criticism for AI-generated Darth Vader, as noted). Sometimes, this anger is misdirected at individuals and small businesses, where the assumption is made that AI has been utilized. For example, an artist for Magic: The Gathering faced false accusations about using AI, prompting Wizards of the Coast to issue a statement. Even Nintendo was implicated in using AI-generated images for in-game signs in Mario Kart World back in May, leading to a denial from the company.
Major companies like Wizards of the Coast and Nintendo may weather unfounded accusations, but indie studios with lesser visibility can find it challenging. Released in April, Little Droid features small robots traversing a lush, pixel-art landscape. On the other hand, the cover art showcases the droid in a distinct style, known for the glossy finish typical of AI-generated art. YouTube commenters pointed out details that “prove” the art was AI-generated due to symmetry issues, even though the robot itself is asymmetrical. Stamina Zero consistently maintained that AI was not utilized in creating their game or art.
The studio eventually shared a video claiming to demonstrate the art process, highlighting early art concepts and various layers in Adobe Photoshop to illustrate how the piece was created. “We contacted the artist and insisted on all available intermediate sketches and source PSDs,” Ro explained. “I quickly posted a collection of videos based on the files we had. It was a damage control strategy—a way to calm the situation and promote more productive conversations. We have nothing to hide.”
Some viewers accepted the video as proof that AI was not involved, while others remained skeptical. The video didn’t contain the actual drawings, making it impossible to share the artist’s entire process unless recorded. Some artists do this already, but it adds to their workload. As Stamina Zero knows, there will always be those who refuse to believe.
“Honestly, we don’t have a clear strategy for the future,” Ro admits. “On Reddit, some suggested we avoid creating art resembling AI outcomes, which has triggered various reactions. This piece of advice might be effective.”
Karatelli also shares the community’s ethical worries surrounding AI, such as plagiarism, environmental concerns, and the ramifications for human creativity. However, he’s aware of the accusations against Chess Plus. “It’s exceptionally difficult for AI to create something meaningful. It’s a thousand small complexities that make a game exceptional… [That] work is often undervalued,” he concurred.
Both games illustrate how generative AI can taint creative processes. It doesn’t just end there. We can’t definitively know whether we’re witnessing human creation or AI output. For creatives and gamers alike, it ultimately boils down to a matter of trust.
As articulated in Gray’s Anatomy, it’s no surprise that healthcare professionals have inspired numerous popular narratives. The journey of a patient through the healthcare system mirrors the structure of classic storytelling, featuring beginnings, conflicts, and resolutions, often accompanied by various tensions.
Although medicine is often perceived as grounded in hard science (blood tests, medical imaging, treatment protocols), it fundamentally involves storytelling, a theme that Pria Anand explores in her debut book, Electric of the Mind: A Tale of the Strangeness and Wonders of Our Brains.
During her time at medical school in California, Anand was concerned that her aversion to storytelling might hinder her. Yet, she found that how individuals narrate their experiences could convey as much insight as any clinical test.
Anand pays homage to her predecessor, neurologist Oliver Sacks, drawing from his personal anecdotes while diagnosing and empathizing with patients. In Electric of the Heart, she acknowledges the influence of Sacks’s iconic work, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat.
While it’s unrealistic to expect anyone to reach Sacks’s level of ingenuity, Anand embodies his empathy, curiosity, and intellectual breadth. Her writing is both polished and insightful as she navigates complex neurological concepts, addressing the narratives of individual patients with similar finesse.
However, Electric of the Heart transcends mere “clinical anecdotes.” Anand’s core message emphasizes the vital role of storytelling in medical practice. The human craving for narratives is ancient, universal, and remarkably resilient, often thriving even in the aftermath of severe brain injuries, as she notes.
Regardless of health status, how individuals articulate their condition may diverge significantly from a physician’s evaluation or observable metrics. Anand recounts the story of a patient who entered a coma following a cerebral hemorrhage but appeared to recover fully, often mistaking Anand and her colleagues for her former medical team as she made her rounds among fellow patients.
No one can match the brilliance of Sacks, but Anand embodies the writer’s humanity and broad intellect.
Anand delves into the way our brains can mislead us, highlighting both the hurdles and the character of medical practice. However, it’s not just the patients’ misconceptions that warrant attention; doctors can exhibit similar biases and errors.
The evolution of her own health conditions has profoundly informed Anand’s work ethic—from sleep deprivation during her training to the “phantom noises” she began experiencing that prompted her concern. It was later discovered that these sounds stemmed from a vascular malformation connecting her brain to her heart.
The inherent “imbalance of power” in medicine signifies an ongoing struggle between empirical evidence and narrative, as well as between objective truths and subjective experiences—this dynamic exists not only in the realm of physicians but also among the false dichotomies pervasive in healthcare. Historically, many confidently given diagnoses have been based solely on “scientific” definitions. One can reflect on the notion of a “wandering uterus.”
Although comparisons between Anand and early reviewers might not be misleading, Electric of the Heart invites parallels with Glass Body, a personal narrative by Caroline Crampton that also explores hypochondria. Like Crampton’s insightful account, Anand elucidates “a vast liminal spread between health and illness” from her perspective as a physician.
Both works suggest a growing openness in mainstream media to not only drama but the complexities of medical intricacies, challenging the traditional notion that the divides between “healthy brains and failing brains” or illnesses and wellness are as clear-cut as they seem.
In Electric of the Heart, Anand exhibits empathy, humility, and a profound interest in humanity—qualities that define outstanding doctors and ideally should be prevalent throughout the medical profession.
Elle Hunt is an author based in Norwich, UK
New Scientist Book Club
Do you enjoy reading? Join a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we explore new titles, providing members with exclusive access to book excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.
Australia’s online safety regulators advise that YouTube should not be granted an exemption from a social media ban for individuals under 16, stating that video streaming platforms can expose children to dangerous content.
In contrast, YouTube contends that it should adhere to a proposed regulation indicating that the government will provide exemptions to the platform.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of regulating YouTube? And what implications does this have for a child watching YouTube if it becomes prohibited?
Why did the government consider exempting YouTube initially?
Last November, when Congress introduced legislation banning access to social media for children under 16, then Communications Minister Michelle Roland indicated that YouTube would be exempted.
This exemption was justified on the grounds that YouTube serves “an important purpose by providing youth with educational and health resources.”
The ban on social media in Australia for individuals under 16 is now law. Many details remain unclear – Video
This exemption came just 48 hours after revelations in April by Guardian Australia regarding the minister’s direct lobbying efforts involving the global CEO of YouTube.
This decision surprised YouTube competitors such as Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat. TikTok described it as a “special deal.” YouTube has launched vertical video products like Instagram and TikTok reels, leading its competitors to believe it should be included in the ban.
What led the eSafety Commissioner to recommend banning YouTube?
As new regulations regarding social media platforms were being formulated, the Minister consulted with eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.
In a recent report, Inman Grant highlighted findings from a youth survey indicating that 76% of individuals aged 10 to 15 use YouTube. The survey also showed that 37% of children who experienced potentially harmful content online encountered it on YouTube.
Additionally, it was observed that increased time spent on YouTube correlates with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among youth, according to the Black Dog Institute.
“Currently, YouTube boasts persuasive design elements associated with health risks, including features that could encourage unnecessary or excessive usage (such as autoplay, social validations, and algorithm-driven content feeds),” noted Inman Grant.
“When combined, these elements can lead to excessive engagement without breaks and heighten exposure to harmful material.”
Inman Grant concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that YouTube provides exclusively beneficial experiences for children under 16.
However, it’s noted that children may still view content on YouTube even if they are logged out and thereby prohibited from using accounts.
What is YouTube’s position?
In a recent statement, Rachel Lord, YouTube’s senior public policy manager for Australia and New Zealand, commented on the eSafety Commissioner’s advice which was examined and subsequently supported by Parliament. YouTube views the findings on community opinion regarding the platform’s suitability for younger audiences as being “inconsistent with government commitments.”
YouTube has been developing age-appropriate offerings for over ten years, and in Q1 of 2025, the company removed 192,856 videos for breaching its hate speech and abusive content policies, a 22% increase from the previous year.
The platform asserts its role primarily as a video hosting service rather than a promoter of social interaction. A survey conducted among Australian teachers revealed that 84% use YouTube monthly as a resource for student learning.
YouTube also stated that the eSafety Commission and potentially the Communications Minister may be reconsidering the exemption following pressures from YouTube’s competitors.
What about YouTube Kids?
YouTube asserts that it offers a platform tailored for younger users, restricting both the uploading of content and commenting features for children.
The company does not seek exemptions solely for its children’s products.
When questioned about YouTube Kids during the National Press Club event, it was indicated that the platform is considered low-risk, designed specifically for children, and possesses adequate safety measures. However, it was stated, “I cannot respond until I have seen the regulations.”
Can children access YouTube without an account?
Yes. Inman Grant confirmed that if teachers wish to show videos to their students, they can access YouTube without needing to log in.
She noted that YouTube has “opaque algorithms that create addictive ‘rabbit holes’,” and remarked that when she accessed the site while logged out, her experience was positive, empowering users to engage without being subjected to addictive technological features.
In response to YouTube’s assertions on Thursday, Inman Grant reiterated that the call for exclusion from the ban aims to “allow young Australians to access YouTube’s diverse content.” However, she clarified that her advice does not imply that children will lose access to YouTube’s educational resources.
“The new law strictly restricts children under 16 from holding their own accounts. They will not be able to access YouTube or other services while logged out,” she added.
“There is nothing preventing educators with their own accounts from continuing to share educational content on YouTube or other platforms approved for school use.”
What are the next steps?
The Minister will finalize the guidelines and identify the social media platforms covered by the ban in the upcoming months.
A trial on age verification technology is expected to be reported to the Minister by the end of July, which will establish the technology platforms must implement to prevent access for users under 16.
The government has announced that the ban is anticipated to come into force in early December.
A restless mind is a prevalent obstacle to achieving sleep
Andrii Lysenko/Getty Images
It might be due to age and warmer temperatures, but sleep is becoming increasingly elusive in my household. Between my husband’s insomnia, my child’s energy, and my own racing thoughts, our nights are filled with as much activity as our days. My social media feed has begun presenting videos featuring a technique known as “cognitive shuffle” for inducing sleep, prompting me to explore whether it actually works or if there are other mental tricks that could prove beneficial.
One major hindrance to restful sleep is a restless mind, the very challenge that cognitive shuffle aims to alleviate. Luc Beaudoin from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, has devised methods to help you divert your attention from spiraling thoughts and worries before drifting off.
How to Practice Cognitive Shuffling
The concept is straightforward. Pick a random word, such as “plonk,” and think of all the words you can generate from each letter. Examples include Primsol, Puma, Awards…lion, lemon, levitation, and more. As each word surfaces, spend some time visualizing it. This process creates a transitional phase between wakefulness and slumber, mirroring the spontaneous imagery seen in a “hypnotic state.”
Individuals who are good sleepers often report experiencing vivid images just before sleep, while poor sleepers tend to find themselves planning and problem-solving, as noted by Sophie Bostock, a doctor and sleep consultant. “It’s not that we need to empty our minds (which can actually be counterproductive), but rather we should steer our thoughts away from overly logical thinking,” she explains.
Cognitive shuffling seems to foster more fluid thinking. In a small study involving 154 students, those who reported struggling with “pre-sleep wakefulness” benefited from this technique, which shortened their time to sleep.
However, there lacks a gold-standard study on cognitive shuffling. Beaudoin himself conceded that there is no direct comparison between various cognitive techniques utilized at bedtime within the scientific literature.
Consequently, I turned to some of the world’s leading sleep scientists to inquire about their recommendations for anyone hoping to calm their minds at night.
Strategies for Insomnia Relief
Kevin Morgan from the Clinical Sleep Research Unit at Loughborough University in the UK directed me towards Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI). “CBTI is internationally recognized as the first evidence-based treatment for insomnia disorders,” he asserts.
This therapy focuses on training individuals to manage intrusive thoughts, which can otherwise lead to cognitive arousal (mental alertness), elevate hormones like adrenaline, and disrupt the normal sleep process. CBTI also tackles other facets of insomnia by assisting individuals in overcoming anxieties about sleeplessness and teaches meditation techniques.
While effective, acquiring CBTI techniques typically takes about 6–8 weeks, leading to a high dropout rate.
Morgan mentions that the component of CBTI that appears to yield the greatest benefits is sleep restriction therapy. This counterintuitive method “has proven to be extremely effective” by reinforcing the idea of spending limited time in bed without sleeping.
This echoes the advice I received from Colin S.P., a professor of sleep medicine at Oxford University. He emphasized that “you cannot force sleep. It doesn’t exist in a tangible sense,” he notes. “You can only encourage sleep. It’s an involuntary process that occurs naturally, not something you can will into being. So rather than trying to sleep when you feel ‘slept and tired,’ focus on creating a conducive environment.”
Designing a Sleep Sanctuary
Another straightforward suggestion from several experts is to cultivate a sleep sanctuary in your bedroom. “Sleep-friendly environments are crucial,” advises Joseph Zielzevsky, Senior Vice President of Research and Science Affairs at the National Sleep Foundation. Others concur. “The top recommendation is to create a bedroom that promotes sleep—dark, cool, quiet, and uncluttered,” states Emerson Wickwire, Head of Sleep Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore.
Many experts also highlighted the importance of avoiding screens before bedtime. The blue light emitted can inhibit melatonin production, disrupt circadian rhythms, complicate the process of falling asleep, and prompt unnecessary thoughts. However, Dzierzewski points out that many people engage with emotionally stimulating content, such as news and social media, right before bed. “Regrettably, over half of Americans admit to using screens within an hour of bedtime,” she mentions.
Perhaps the most significant advice I received wasn’t a trick or hint to quiet our racing thoughts at night but rather a prompt to genuinely prioritize sleep. Numerous specialists, including Aparajitha Verma, a sleep medicine neurologist in Houston, Texas, emphasized the necessity of treating sleep as a priority. Morgan reiterates that anyone dealing with insomnia should “seek expert help and engage in recommended treatment strategies as soon as possible.”
Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to increased risks of dementia, type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even cancer. This reality alone is enough to keep anyone awake at night. Additionally, thoughts of “organizing” my child’s room linger in my mind. Yet, I am resolved to place it at the top of my to-do list as an immediate concern—hopefully, that will serve as a positive first step towards achieving a restful night for all.
Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta has secured judicial backing in a copyright lawsuit initiated by a collective of authors this week, marking a second legal triumph for the American Artificial Intelligence Industry.
Prominent authors, including Sarah Silverman and Ta-Nehisi Coates, claimed that the owners of Facebook utilized their books without authorization to train AI systems, thereby violating copyright laws.
This ruling comes on the heels of a decision affirming that another major AI player, Humanity, did not infringe upon the authors’ copyrights.
In his ruling on the Meta case, US District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco stated that the authors failed to present adequate evidence that the AI developed by tech companies would harm the market to establish an illegal infringement under US copyright law.
However, the judgment offered some encouragement to American creators who contended that training AI models without consent was unlawful.
Chhabria noted that using copyrighted material without permission for AI training is illegal in “many situations,” contrasting with another federal judge in San Francisco who recently concluded in a separate case that Humanity’s AI training constituted “fair use” of copyrighted works.
The fair use doctrine permits the utilization of copyrighted works under certain conditions without the copyright holder’s permission, which serves as a vital defense for high-tech firms.
“This ruling does not imply that Meta employs copyrighted content to train language models,” Chhabria remarked. “It merely indicates that these plaintiffs presented an incorrect argument and failed to establish a supportive record for their case.”
Humanity is also set to face further legal scrutiny this year after a judge determined that it had illegally utilized over 7 million books from the Central Library, infringing on the authors’ copyrights without fair use.
A representative for Boys Schiller Flexner, the law firm representing the authors against Meta, expressed disagreement with the judge’s ruling to favor Meta despite the “uncontroversial record” of the company’s “historically unprecedented copyright infringement.”
A spokesperson for Meta stated that the company valued the decision and characterized fair use as a “critical legal framework” for developing “transformative” AI technology.
In 2023, the authors filed a lawsuit against Meta, asserting that the company exploited unauthorized versions of their books to train the AI systems known as Llamas without consent or remuneration.
Copyright disputes are placing AI firms in opposition to publishers and creative sectors on both sides of the Atlantic. This tension arises because generative AI models, which form the foundation of powerful tools like ChatGPT chatbots, require extensive datasets to be trained, much of which is comprised of copyrighted material.
This lawsuit is part of a series of copyright cases filed by authors, media organizations, and other copyright holders against OpenAI, Microsoft, and companies like Humanity regarding AI training.
AI enterprises claim they are fairly using copyrighted materials to develop systems that create new and innovative content, while asserting that imposing copyright fees on them could threaten the burgeoning AI sector.
Copyright holders maintain that AI firms are unlawfully replicating their works and generating rival content that jeopardizes their livelihoods. Chhabria conveyed empathy toward this argument during the May hearing, reiterating it on Wednesday.
The judge remarked that generative AI could inundate the market with endless images, songs, articles, and books, requiring only a fraction of the time and creativity involved in traditional creation.
“Consequently, by training generative AI models with copyrighted works, companies frequently produce outputs that significantly undermine the market for those original works, thereby greatly diminishing the incentives for humans to create in the conventional manner,” stated Chhabria.
Rice served as a fundamental crop in the Austronesian region, which includes the ancestors of Taiwan and the islands of Southeast Asia. However, it was largely unknown in the Pacific Islands during their initial encounters with Europeans, with the exceptions of Guam and the Mariana Islands. A recent study conducted by scientists from Guam, China, and Australia highlights the discovery of abundant rice husks and leafy plant oils associated with red melted pottery found in the Litidian Beach Caves in Guam, dating back between 3,500 and 3,100 years ago.
The presence of early rice in Pacific Island settlements is part of a broader narrative about rice as a staple in the diet of ancient Austronesian speakers, who formed the world’s most extensive language family prior to the onset of global colonial expansions.
Austronesian communities cultivated rice in Taiwan no less than 4,800 years ago, but cultivation of rice among populations in eastern Indonesia seems to have been carried over into the more remote Pacific Islands. The Austronesian ancestors migrated from Taiwan across the Asia-Pacific region approximately 4,200 years ago.
These early islanders introduced domesticated rice from Taiwan and returned to the Yangtze River Basin in mainland China, the source of these resources.
In this context, rice’s significance in the Mariana Islands in Guam and western Micronesia has garnered significant interest, as it was the sole island in the distant Pacific where rice cultivation occurred, as evidenced by historical records from the 1500s and 1600s.
“These findings provide fresh insights into ancient migration and culture,” states Dr. Hsiao-Chun Hung, an archaeologist at the Australian National University.
“To this point, archaeological records only showed traces of rare rice in the remote Pacific Ocean, dating back perhaps 1,000 to 700 years ago. The evidence we have found pushes that timeline significantly forward.”
Rice cultivation from excavations at Litidian Beach Cave in Guam. Scale bar – 10μm. Image credits: Carson et al. , doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adw3591.
Dr. Hung and her team discovered ancient rice remnants in a cave at Ritidian Beach in northern Guam.
“Rice served as a daily staple in many ancient Asian societies, yet this discovery reveals that, in the remote Pacific Ocean, it was regarded as a valuable item reserved for rituals rather than regular consumption,” Dr. Hung remarked.
“Our investigations found no signs of ancient rice paddies, irrigation systems, or harvesting tools in Guam.”
“Our findings bolster the hypothesis that the first Pacific Islanders transported rice from the Philippines over 2,300 km of open ocean.
“This indicates not just their exceptional navigation abilities but also their foresight in storing and carrying essential resources across vast distances.
“The caves at Ritidian Beach offer unique insights into the lives of early inhabitants in the region, especially given that most other cave sites in Guam were affected during World War II.”
“Despite extensive exploration of outdoor sites, evidence of early rice usage had not been uncovered until this point.”
“This discovery highlights a profound and enduring connection between our ancestral heritage and our Asian roots.”
“Rice husks were found in the oldest cultural layer of this site, dated through a range of advanced methods including radiocarbon analyses of nearby human waste deposits.
“It is likely that rice was prepared and cooked elsewhere, as the grain processing would have left different kinds of evidence.”
“The humid cave conditions were not suitable for storing raw rice in a pot.”
“Ancient residues were only located on ceramic surfaces, ruling out conventional food storage options.”
Details of these findings are documented in a study published in the journal Advances in Science.
____
Mike T. Carson et al. 2025. The earliest evidence of rice cultivation in remote Oceania: ritual use by the first islanders of the Marianas 3,500 years ago. Advances in Science 11 (26); doi:10.1126/sciadv.adw3591
Gastric bypass surgery is primarily utilized for weight loss, but it may provide other advantages
Portra/Getty Images
A widely recognized form of weight loss surgery may lower the risk of colorectal cancer by changing the levels of bile acids in the bloodstream. These findings could pave the way for new bowel cancer treatments.
During gastric bypass surgery, the stomach is surgically altered to create a small upper pouch and a larger lower pouch. The small intestine is then connected to the upper pouch, allowing food and digestive juices to bypass most of the upper stomach and small intestine. Post-surgery, patients often feel fuller and experience quicker weight loss.
Earlier research indicated that this procedure is associated with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer; however, the underlying reasons remained unclear. To investigate further, Rebecca Kesselling of the University of Freiburg, Germany, and her team fed mice a high-fat diet until they reached approximately 50% of their starting weight. They then performed a partial gastric bypass on some of the mice, while the remaining mice underwent a sham surgery that did not alter their digestive systems.
To isolate the weight-loss effects of gastric bypass surgery, the team grouped the gastric bypass mice alongside half of the sham-operated mice. Over six weeks, the gastric bypass mice lost about 20% of their body weight on average.
Subsequently, the researchers implanted colorectal cancer cells into the colons of the mice. After an additional six weeks, it was observed that colon tumors in the gastric bypass mice were two-thirds smaller than those in the mice that either continued gaining weight or lost weight solely through diet.
Additionally, cancer spread to the liver was seen in only one out of twenty gastric bypass mice, while it occurred in most of the sham-operated mice.
“Both sham groups exhibited similar tumor levels, but weight loss alone could not account for the lower cancer risk, suggesting that gastric bypass involves additional factors,” Kesselling explains.
The researchers speculated that this might be attributed to alterations in bile acids, which are compounds that aid in fat digestion. These molecules are typically produced by the liver, move through the gallbladder, stomach, and small intestine, and then return to the liver via the bloodstream.
“Bile acids are reintroduced into the small intestine during bypass surgery,” Kesselling states, implying that this process may lead to variations in intestinal bacteria that chemically modify these molecules.
The mice that underwent gastric bypass surgery displayed lower levels of specific bile acids, known as primary bile acids, in both their colon and bloodstream compared to the sham group.
To further explore whether changes in bile acids influenced cancer risk, the team conducted a similar experiment with another group of mice. Instead of gastric bypass, these mice had surgery that redirected bile acids to the latter part of the small intestine without altering the stomach.
Significantly, the team noted that this surgery also lowered primary bile acid levels in the bloodstream and decreased the size and spread of colorectal tumors as effectively as gastric bypass surgery. This was supported by an additional experiment, where they identified that primary bile acids promote the growth of colorectal cancer cells in laboratory settings.
The results indicate that focusing on primary bile acids may hold promise for cancer treatment. “We might be able to leverage various oral medications designed to reduce these bile acids to replicate some of the advantageous effects of gastric bypass surgery,” notes Vance Albaf from Louisiana State University.
Ancient artifacts crafted from mammoth tusks are the earliest recognized boomerangs
Talamo et al., 2025, PLOS One, CC-BY 4.0
The earliest known boomerang could be over 22,000 years older than previously believed, indicating it was crafted during a time when early humans exhibited a rise in artistic expression.
In 1985, archaeologists discovered a 72-centimeter ivory boomerang buried beneath six layers of sediment within the Obwazwa Cave in Poland. Further analysis of sediment revealed bone beads from Homo sapiens, made from nearby thumb bones, antlers, fox teeth, and pendants. In the 1990s, radiocarbon dating estimated the thumbs to be 31,000 years old, while surprisingly, the boomerang dated only to 18,000 years ago—thousands of years younger than the associated crafts.
Sarataramo at the University of Bologna suspects contamination. “Even minor amounts of modern carbon from adhesives and maintenance can skew radiocarbon dates by tens of thousands of years,” she explains. The analysis of carbon-nitrogen ratios in the thumbs indicated collagen changes, suggesting that the samples were not suitable for reliable radiocarbon dating.
Redoing the dating on the contaminated boomerang would have wasted resources and unnecessarily harmed significant artifacts, according to Taramo. Instead, she and her team re-dated the human thumb bones and 13 nearby animal bones, using statistical modeling to reconstruct the timeline. Their findings indicated that the entire sediment layer—along with the boomerangs and thumb bones—dated to approximately 39,000 to 42,000 years ago.
“In a way, this serves as a reminder for museums; if you discover something extraordinary, avoid covering it with glue or any repair materials prior to completing thorough analysis,” she asserts.
This new timeline suggests that the ivory boomerang predates the second oldest known wooden boomerang created by Australian Indigenous peoples. Unlike other simpler throwing tools, like the 300,000-year-old wooden artifact found in Schoningen, Germany, the boomerang has a curved, aerodynamic design, although it may not always return when thrown, according to Taramo.
While it’s likely that these ancient boomerangs could fly, their size and construction likely meant they did not return to the thrower. They may have held symbolic or ritual significance, potentially related to their placement alongside the thumb bones within a decorative stone ring, which featured intricate carvings and reddish pigments, along with a smooth polished surface.
This discovery provides insight into the cognitive abilities and craftsmanship of early humans during a remarkable period of artistic growth, known as the early Aulignacian, which began around 40,000 years ago. This era saw the emergence of iconic artifacts, including mammoth ivory figurines, rock art, and aesthetically refined tools in Europe, notes Taramo.
According to an independent survey derived from household interviews, about 75,000 individuals (3.6% of the population) in the Gaza Strip lost their lives due to violence between October 7, 2023, and January 5, 2025. This figure exceeds the Gaza Health Ministry’s estimate of 46,000 violent deaths in the same timeframe.
The research also indicated that approximately 9,000 additional non-violent deaths occurred during this period compared to expected norms in the Gaza Strip. This marks the first estimate of indirect deaths stemming from the conflict that began in October 2023.
The survey involved interviews with 2,000 randomly selected households, which detailed the current and prewar conditions for all household members. “We were present on-site and gathered data directly from the population,” says Debarati Guha-Sapir at Louban Catholic University in Belgium.
The research team encountered restrictions in several locations due to ongoing combat and Israeli evacuation orders, but they believe these limitations likely understate the actual figures rather than exaggerate them.
Guha-Sapir notes that Gaza’s Ministry of Health maintains strict death counting standards. For instance, deaths of unidentified bodies, such as those buried in tunnels, are excluded from the counts. This leads her to conclude that their estimates may closely reflect the true numbers.
Another independent study published in February determined that the death toll up to June 24, 2024, surpassed the official count. However, this study relied on online research and social media obituaries, making Guha-Sapir regard the current research approach as more credible.
Francesco Checchi from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, which conducted the February research, disagrees, stating, “The findings aren’t necessarily more accurate than ours.” Nonetheless, he acknowledges that Guha-Sapir’s research is more recent and includes indirect deaths, providing a more comprehensive mortality picture.
The estimated 9,000 indirect deaths from the conflict is lower than previous estimates. For example, a letter in The Lancet in 2024 suggested that for every direct death, there could be four indirect deaths in Gaza, projecting a death toll of around 186,000.
However, Guha-Sapir points out that the direct death rates observed in countries like Sudan, where extreme poverty and inadequate healthcare predate the conflict, do not apply to Gaza’s context prior to the war. This distinction is crucial in interpreting the current situation.
Nevertheless, changes may occur if conditions continue to deteriorate. “As the situation worsens, the rate of non-violent deaths could escalate quickly,” warns team member Michael Spagat from Royal Holloway University in London.
I plan to purchase the Guardian from the newspaper publisher. Digital mediums are intertwined with analog ones, allowing you to discover trends through print. I’ll grab it a bit later. I got some insights after reading the Economist last week.
I wish technology had paused in 1996, when playing Mario Kart was sufficient but not life-altering. Just a need for Microsoft Excel was all that was required.
Aidan Jones: 10 Funniest Things I’ve Encountered (On the Internet)
read more
I avoid social media, leading others to think I possess mental clarity. Yet, I’ll attribute it to the shop hours of Harvey Norman.
Here are my favorite moments I’ve stumbled upon on TV via YouTube late at night. They all seem to speak for themselves.
It feels very immersive, as if you’re right there, even while feeling uncomfortable.
Dan Russ is a comedian. He will be performing his award-winning short “Tropical Death Paucity” at Monkey Barrel Cabaret Voltaire from July 31st to August 24th. Edinburgh Fringe.
A team of biologists from the University of Virginia and the National Institutes of Health has found that half of certain organelles can make up to 10% of vesicle organelles present in cells, yet they do not follow the typical endocytotic pathway.
Cutting-edge Cryo-Electron microscope images of rat-1 cells cultured on Cryo-EM grids. The lamellipodia and filopodia in the upper right corner illustrate the cell boundary, distinguishing the cytoplasm from the extracellular space (ext). Various vesicle organelles are highlighted, including early endosomal-like vesicles (EN, pink), multinuclear bodies (MVB, blue), hemispores (HF, yellow), and inverted hemifusomes (FHF, green). Scale bar – 0.5 µm. Image credit: Tavakoli et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-59887-9.
“It’s like uncovering a new recycling center within a cell,” remarked Dr. Seham Ebrahim, a researcher at the University of Virginia.
“Many believe it plays a role in how cells manage their packaging and processing of materials. If this process fails, it can lead to diseases affecting multiple systems in the body.”
“One such condition is Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that may result in albinism, visual impairments, lung issues, and problems with blood clotting.”
“The challenges related to how cells manage their cargo are central to many of these issues.”
“We’re just beginning to grasp how these new organelles fit into the broader context of cellular health and disease.”
“This discovery is thrilling because finding a genuinely new internal cell is rare, and it opens up avenues for exploring entirely new paths.”
Utilizing Cryo-Electron tomography (Cryo-ET), the researchers managed to capture a significant number of images.
They propose that these organelles facilitate the creation of vesicle-based organelles, which function like mixing bowls, small blister-like sacs, and multiple vesicles.
This process plays a critical role in cellular sorting, recycling, and debris management.
Dr. Ebrahim stated, “You can think of vesicles as small delivery trucks within a cell.”
“Part of it functions like a loading dock where cargo is connected and transferred. It’s a step in the process we were unaware of.”
Many of these organelles have gone unnoticed but are surprisingly prevalent in certain areas of the cell.
Researchers aim to enhance their understanding of their significance in proper cell functioning and how issues with them can lead to diseases.
Such findings may contribute to targeted treatments for a range of serious genetic disorders.
“This is only the beginning,” Dr. Ebrahim noted.
“Now that we’ve confirmed the existence of hemifusomes, we can explore their behavior in healthy cells and investigate what occurs when problems arise.”
“It could pave the way for new strategies to address complex genetic disorders.”
The team’s paper was published in the journal Nature Communications.
____
A. Cigarette et al. 2025. Proteolipid nanosap interacting with half of hemifusomes mediates polyspore formation. Nat Commun 16, 4609; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-59887-9
James Watson, a Nobel Prize-winning co-discussor of the DNA double helix, remarked in 1974, “All hell is unleashed politically and morally around the globe” regarding the potential of human in vitro fertilization.
Today, more than 12 million individuals are expecting through IVF, and the world seems relatively calm. Many of us may not have fully grasped this procedure.
Yet, what about our perceptions of future reproductive technologies? This question is sparked by the recent birth of a fertile mouse with two genetic fathers. While similar experiments have previously led to the creation of both motherless and fatherless mice, this new method is notable as it does not involve genetic alterations. Typically, this could also be applicable for human use.
Various obstacles, including low success rates and the removal of DNA from numerous human eggs, explain why such advancements aren’t imminent. Nonetheless, it is essential to begin contemplating the societal implications.
For some, the notion of a child having two genetic fathers may never be accepted, just as there remains criticism towards gay couples expanding their families. Changing such perspectives may prove challenging, if not impossible.
Like IVF, what used to be front-page news could eventually become routine.
However, one can expect a broader public to exhibit a strict moral opposition to this idea, along with a general sense of unease. The inaugural child born from this method is, in many ways, distinct from all previous human beings. IVF-born children come into existence through a process unimaginable to our ancestors but continue to carry the genetic lineage from one male and one female ancestor.
Is this significant? Just like IVF, what was once front-page news may soon be commonplace. In a time when reproductive and trans rights are being restricted in the U.S., engaging in objective discourse about emerging technologies presents a greater challenge. Fortunately, these questions do not require immediate answers.
Your brain communicates with your body through a network of 12 critical neural pathways that travel down your spine and extend throughout the body. Among these, the vagus nerve stands out as perhaps the most vital. This nerve influences digestion, heart rate, reflexes, and respiration.
This is why researchers are particularly fascinated by the vagus nerve’s functions, especially regarding how these bodily activities can influence your mood. Consider it a superhighway linking our brains and bodies.
Vagus nerve function
Unlike the quick “fight or flight” reactions managed by the sympathetic nervous system, the vagus nerve triggers a slower, restful, and digestive response associated with the parasympathetic nervous system. This nerve comprises two thick cords of neurons (nerve cells) that originate from the brain.
The majority of the neurons in the vagus nerve are sensory (around 100,000 on each side of the body), relaying information from the organs to the brain, activated by sensory stimuli from the surrounding environment. The remaining neurons are motor neurons, transmitting signals from the brain to various organs, directly influencing muscle activity.
The vagus nerve is a vital component of the parasympathetic nervous system, influencing various bodily functions including respiration, heart rate, swallowing, sneezing, digestion, appetite, immune responses, and even orgasm.
This wide-ranging capability results from its diverse neuronal cell types that enable the detection of various sensory signals from different organs. Some neurons respond to chemical signals like blood oxygen levels or bacterial secretions in the gut, while others pick up mechanical signals from blood vessels and the stretching of intestines.
Consequently, vagus nerve neurons mainly relay information to the brain about the body’s status, enabling the brain to process this information and respond to maintain balance. However, some neurons transmit signals in reverse, facilitating communication between the brain and intestines, as well as controlling certain mouth and throat muscles involved in speech and gag reflexes.
The vagus nerve’s roles are numerous, and there may be functions we’re yet to discover. However, we know some ways to leverage its activity. For instance, doctors sometimes recommend “Valsalva Maneuvers” to activate the vagus nerve and decelerate rapid heart rates. Activities like coughing, bearing down as if on the toilet, or even handstands can be effective.
Read more about stress:
Long, twisty nerves
The term “vagus” translates to “wandering” in Latin, which aptly describes the vagus nerve. It extends from the brain down to the base of the spine and colon, branching out to critical organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and intestines along its path.
As the longest cranial nerve in the human body, it plays a key role in the parasympathetic nervous system, regulating automatic functions like digestion while the body is at rest. Historically, it was termed the pneumonia nerve, due to its connections to both the lungs and stomach.
How is the vagus nerve connected to our happiness?
In stressful situations, our sympathetic nervous system triggers “fight or flight” responses for quick reactions, whereas the parasympathetic system operates more gradually to foster relaxation. It’s crucial for recovering calmness following stress.
Thanks to the vagus nerve, our brains can detect changes in breathing and heart rate, facilitating a balancing act between the two nervous systems. Although the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems don’t always sync perfectly, they can operate independently or in harmony. Disruptions in their balance may lead to digestive issues or mental health disorders. Chronic stress is linked to an overactive sympathetic response, a phenomenon noted in individuals suffering from depression.
Vagus nerve and heart
A key metric often utilized is heart rate variability, which measures the intervals between consecutive heartbeats. Healthy heart rhythms typically exhibit slight variations; low variability may indicate an overactive sympathetic nervous system, indicating the body remains in a persistent state of combat or flight, while the vagus and parasympathetic responses struggle to keep pace.
Despite being a popular tool, questions regarding the true effectiveness of heart rate variability as an indicator of balance between the two systems continue to emerge. Heart rate monitors can supply this data, yet it’s best not to become overly fixated on the figures.
Historically, stomach ulcers were often treated by severing the vagus fibers beneath the ribcage, based on the belief that the vagus nerve significantly contributes to acid production in the stomach, resulting in pain. Today, with advancements in medication, such surgical procedures are less common, yet they illustrate the repercussions of damaging a nerve with extensive branches.
Cutting the vagus nerve can eliminate its supply to the stomach, pancreas, small intestine, and portions of the colon. Without further surgical intervention, patients may find it difficult to pass solid waste. Those with gastroparesis face similar challenges, generally due to vagus nerve damage caused by diabetes, medications, or infections.
Moreover, more severe damage higher up the vagus nerve may lead to different consequences. For example, the chickenpox virus can attack the nervous system and rarely cause vagus nerve lesions, resulting in the inability to swallow, headaches, and ear inflammation. Preliminary research from Spain indicates that some of the symptoms associated with long COVID may also relate to vagus nerve damage, encompassing respiratory, vocal, and gastrointestinal issues.
Should I get a vagus nerve stimulator?
Current evidence indicates that devices designed for vagus nerve stimulation are generally safe. However, researchers express concerns about the rising tendency for home use of neurostimulators.
Individuals seeking alternatives to technology may opt for activities like yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, and deep breathing exercises, believed to enhance the parasympathetic nervous system’s function and bolster vagus nerve activity. Additionally, there’s evidence suggesting that cold exposure through swimming or bathing can stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic system. Splashing cold water on your face may also have a similar effect.
While using an inexpensive device or signing up for a yoga retreat may appear to be a convenient fix when you’re not feeling well, consulting with your doctor for serious health concerns is always a wise approach.
Read more about how to relax:
What is vagus nerve stimulation?
The vagus nerve stimulation concept originated in the late 19th century when neurologist James Leonard Corning created an electrical stimulation device for treating epilepsy. Although it was initially set aside, it has evolved to help over 100,000 patients with epilepsy via implants or adjustments for brain lesions.
Several studies suggest that some individuals can reduce seizure frequency by as much as 75% with implants, with longer use amplifying benefits. Devices developed by US medical company Cyberonics are also approved for severe depression and chronic headaches.
However, surgical implantation isn’t the only form of nerve stimulation. You can access the vagus nerve via ear and neck branches, using devices like TENS machines commonly utilized for labor pain relief. Ear clips, such as those developed by Nurosym, offer stylish neuromodulators intended for individuals seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or fatigue.
Research on vagus nerve stimulation is rapidly growing, with ongoing trials exploring its efficacy in conditions like burns, obesity, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and tinnitus. The well-documented link between the vagus nerve and gut function also suggests potential therapeutic applications for common gastrointestinal disorders like IBS. However, accumulating evidence to support these treatments must take time.
It is the longest cranial nerve that extends from the brain to the large intestine, transmitting signals bidirectionally through neurotransmitters and gut hormones.
The vagus nerve fibers harbor 200,000 sensory nerve cells, with the ears being the sole area where these fibers reach the body’s surface.
The vagus nerve’s “bypass,” which enables direct impulses between the uterus and brain, may allow women with spinal injury to achieve orgasm.
Vagus nerve stimulation influences gamma-aminobutyric acid neurotransmitters associated with ADHD, hinting at potential therapeutic applications.
The medical term for fainting is vasovagal syncope, occurring when the vagus nerve is overstimulated, leading to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure.
Read more about the human body:
To submit your question, please email Questions@sciencefocus.com (don’t forget to include your name and location)
Some former employees of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) who were dismissed, re-hired, and then let go again this spring report having received debt notices from the federal government requiring repayment for medical compensation which they assert they never received.
These workers describe this as the latest chapter in a firing process marked by confusion, inadequate communication, and insufficient documentation, leaving them grappling with fundamental workplace concerns.
Three NOAA employees provided a letter to NBC News labeled “Notice of Payment Request.” Dated June 16, the letter claimed the employee owed money (sometimes several hundred dollars) with potential interest on the amount. It also warned that any unpaid debt would be reported to the Credit Bureau.
“The language is very ominous and threatening,” remarked Salakoury, who was dismissed in late February from his role as director of the agency’s marine acidification program.
It remains unclear how many dismissed employees received this notice; two former NOAA staff members informed NBC News that they did not get such letters.
The notice indicates that the debt pertains to healthcare premiums for the eighth and ninth months of the year, during which the health insurance plan had already lapsed.
“After my termination, they attempted to file a claim related to their health insurance, of which I had no reports,” noted Ya’el Seid-Green, a former special assistant at NOAA’s Office of Ocean and Atmospheric Research. “It’s just rubbing salt in the wound regarding how incompetent this is.”
NOAA spokesperson Kim Doster stated the agency could not comment on ongoing personnel issues and was unable to forward inquiries to the HR Administration, which did not respond initially. The Department of Commerce, which oversees NOAA, also did not reply.
Following NBC News’s inquiry about the problems at NOAA’s Media Affairs group, probationary employees received an acknowledgment from their representatives about potential errors.
“Our office is aware that you may have received a debt notice from the National Finance Center (NFC),” read an email sent to a probationary employee. “Please be assured that we are collaborating with the NFC to address this matter. No action is required from you at this moment. We will provide further information and updates.”
In February, the Department of Commerce terminated over 600 probationary employees at NOAA, including hurricane hunters, meteorologists, and storm modelers. Probationary employees typically serve their first or second year in a new position at the agency.
In mid-March, a judge ordered many of these employees reinstated, prompting NOAA to place them on administrative leave. However, in early April, the Supreme Court temporarily halted some of these reinstatements, leading to a second dismissal of the employees.
A former employee stated that the chaotic process of hiring and firing has resulted in documentation errors and confusion, leaving them unable to obtain answers from the agency.
Sabrina Valenti, a former budget analyst at NOAA, expressed concern that she has not yet received her separation paperwork from the agency.
“It has been four months since my termination, and there is no record acknowledging it,” she stated.
Additionally, the employees reported not having access to the health benefits that should have been available during their reinstatement period. Seid-Green underwent surgery in April while on administrative leave.
“We were receiving salaries during administrative leave, and our health insurance contributions were deducted,” she mentioned.
After her surgery, Seid-Green discovered that her health insurance had lapsed.
She subsequently applied to continue her temporary compensation, a program that allows government employees to retroactively cover their health benefits. However, that has also not been successful.
Seid-Green remarked that this effectively means she has been billed twice for health insurance she has not received.
“I’ve received letters demanding over $14,000 for the surgery,” she shared. “Not only did they fail to provide the compensation we were owed, but now they are sending us debt notices for benefits we never received.”
Tim White House, executive director of the Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting environmental workers and monitoring administrative issues, stated that these errors reflect deeper leadership failures within the agency.
“They are inflicting emotional and financial burdens on these employees. The Department of Commerce is at fault. Other agencies have resolved these issues, while they remain persistent in this department,” he concluded.
a Amir* hasn’t slept in days. From his apartment in northern Tehran, the 23-year-old has spent nights searching for a vulnerable digital connection that can temporarily bypass the internet blackouts.
For 13 days, Iran has faced a nearly complete internet shutdown, severely limiting access to information since the onset of Israel’s strike until the latter part of Wednesday. However, a group of young Iranians tirelessly works to ensure their voices are heard beyond their borders.
“Using a VPN is no longer effective. To navigate this internet blackout, we’re relying on a special proxy link—essentially a ‘secret tunnel’ that channels messages through non-Iranian servers.
“These links are built into the app’s features […] They direct traffic from internal servers. Each link only works for a few hours before it fails. So, I’m constantly on the lookout for new ways to communicate with my people.”
The Iranian government blames external forces for restricting internet access during the conflict with Israel, claiming the network is being exploited for military purposes. A local source informed the Guardian that only correspondents from approved foreign media can access the internet.
While domestic messaging apps are operational, many young Iranians lack confidence in their security.
Amir remarked: “We have local apps, but they’re utterly unreliable. The government takes every opportunity to surveil us, particularly targeting student leaders.”
Last week, Amnesty International urged the authorities to lift the communication blackouts, stating it would “prevent individuals from finding safe routes, accessing vital resources, and sharing information.”
Another student leader, Leila*, 22, residing in Abbas Abado, north of Tehran, mentioned that she managed to connect again during the shutdown thanks to assistance from abroad. “My boyfriend in Europe sent me a composition link via text. Without it, nothing works. The internet sporadically operates for a few minutes before shutting down again.”
The blackout not only severed connections with the outside world but also complicated life amid the ongoing Israeli bombardment. “It feels like being enclosed by a wall,” remarked Tehran student Arash*. “We’ve lost the ability to assist each other with independent news while the sound of bombs contrasts sharply with the silence of state media.”
For Amir, the most alarming aspect is how the perception of war is becoming normalized. “We’re starting to treat this as normal,” he expressed, “but war is anything but normal.” He noted their recognition that the rattling of windows signifies either an air raid or an explosion.
The blackouts intensified his fears amid the war. “That’s what erases us… it makes us invisible. Yet here we are. We still wish to connect with a free world.”
Neurons Growing Among Cancer Cell Cultures (Stained Green)
Simon Grelet and Gustavo Ayala
Cancer cells are known to hijack energy-generating components from neurons, facilitating their spread to remote locations. This groundbreaking discovery may enhance treatments for the most aggressive tumors.
“This marks the first instance of mitochondrial transfer from nerves to cancer cells,” states Elizabeth Lepasky, who is not directly linked to the study conducted at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York. “This signifies a pivotal advancement in cancer neuroscience, a rapidly evolving field.”
Prior knowledge indicated that both intratumor and adjacent tumors produce proteins and electrical impulses that promote cancer growth and dissemination. “A higher density of nerves within tumors correlates with a poorer prognosis,” says Simone Grelet from the University of Southern Alabama.
Earlier investigations have demonstrated that brain tumor cells can absorb mitochondria (the energy-producing organelles) from non-neuronal brain cells. However, the potential for tumor cells to extract mitochondria from neurons remained unclear, according to Grelet.
To explore this, Grelet and his team genetically modified breast cancer cells derived from mice to contain red fluorescent molecules and combined them with mouse neurons that had mitochondria labeled with green pigments in laboratory conditions. Imaging revealed that cancer cells can seize mitochondria from neurons within a matter of hours.
“Cancer cells extend their membranes to absorb mitochondria from neurons,” explains Grelet. “It’s akin to a lineup of mitochondria filtering through a narrow passage, entering the cancer cells sequentially.”
To assess whether this phenomenon occurs in vivo, the researchers injected red breast cancer cells into the mammary glands of female mice to induce tumor growth. They also genetically engineered the surrounding nerves to carry green mitochondria. Approximately one month later, 2% of the cancer cells in these tumors had taken up mitochondria from neurons.
Conversely, 14% of tumor cells that metastasized to the brain exhibited neuronal-derived mitochondria. This suggests that cancer cells acquiring mitochondria from nerves have a significant advantage over other cancer types. Further tests indicate that these mitochondria contribute to greater resilience against the physical and chemical challenges encountered in the bloodstream.
“Cancer cells face numerous hurdles in their migration,” remarks Repasky. “They must escape the primary tumor, navigate barriers to blood vessels, exit the bloodstream, and secure sufficient oxygen and nutrients at secondary sites. By appropriating mitochondria, it appears cancer cells can endure this tumultuous journey,” she adds.
To determine if this process also occurs in humans, researchers examined tumor samples from eight women with metastatic breast cancer. They discovered that tumor cells from distant sites contained, on average, 17% more mitochondria compared to those from breast tumors, suggesting that similar mechanisms are at play in patients, according to Grelet.
Moreover, the team analyzed human prostate tumor samples and observed that cancer cells near nerves contained significantly more mitochondria than those situated further away. “I believe this represents a common mechanism utilized by various tumor types,” asserts team member Gustavo Ayala from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston.
The findings indicate that inhibiting mitochondrial transfer could potentially curtail the spread of the deadliest tumors. “We are optimistic that this is achievable, at least for certain tumor types,” Repasky suggests. Ayala mentions that they are working towards developing a drug to facilitate this approach.
WOne of Tim’s eighth graders inquired about his “favorite Italian brain rot animal,” leading to some confusion. “My hearing isn’t the best, so I probably had to ask her to repeat it four or five times,” he reflects.
After instructing the students to continue their work, he opened his laptop and turned to Google.
He learned that “Italian Brain Corruption” involves a series of absurd, AI-generated animal characters with ridiculous Italian names (like Bombomini Gusini and Trippi Troppi), often showcased in TikTok videos with rapid, nonsensical Italian narration.
Essentially, it’s a meme popular among the emerging Generation Alpha (born 2010-2025) and the younger Gen Z (mostly born 1997-2012). For older individuals—whether they are heavily engaged online or consider themselves meme enthusiasts—it might seem perplexing, as Tim discovered while browsing.
As he shared his findings, he appeared horrified. “This one is Chimpanzee Banana: it’s a hybrid of a chimpanzee and a banana. Bombardiro Crocodilo is a crocodile that resembles a bomber plane. There are also characters that are just cappuccinos with legs…”
Ballerina Cappuccina. Photo: tiktok/@aironic.fun
That’s right, Ballerina Cappuccina: female ballet dancers are fused with coffee cups and often depicted in a relationship with Cappuccino Assassin (you can understand that).
“There’s a backstory to all these characters—lore,” Tim adds, pondering. “Some are even at war with each other, and there are songs about them.”
The kids in his class are intensely fascinated by it, unlike any trend Tim has seen before. “Once one person mentions it, the whole class starts buzzing. They’re obsessed with this Italian brain corruption.”
If you’re reading this and finding your own mind bewildered, it’s understandable. If you were born in a year that starts with a “1,” “Italian brain corruption” might not resonate with you.
However, its widespread popularity among the younger crowd is worth trying to understand, at least as a reflection of the evolution of online culture.
Tralala Rotralala. Photo: Tiktok
The first character to gain traction was Shark Sport Nike sneakers (three per fin); Torara Rotorarara. Shortly after, the voice of a male character first appeared, marking the start of Italian expressions on TikTok in early January.
New characters quickly proliferated on TikTok. Don Caldwell, Editor-in-Chief of Know Your Meme, identified Brr Brr Patapim as an example, describing it as a “material monkey that is also a tree.”
Tung Tung Tung Sahur. Photo: Tiktok/@noxaasht
Notably, there’s also brain rot in Indonesia. Tung Tung Tung Sahur (“This features a stick figure on a bat, telling people to wake up for food during Ramadan”) and Boneca Ambalabu (“A frog with a tire and human legs”) are examples.
Both are accompanied by AI-generated voices that, much like their Italian counterparts, aim to confuse rather than clarify.
“Audio is just as crucial, if not more so than visuals,” Caldwell explains. “They really amp it up, like Tra-la-.lero! tra-la-laLA!—that quintessential Italian sound.”
Is this offensive to Italians? “It seems like Italians are in on the joke,” Caldwell suggests. “I don’t think it is.”
The attraction of Italian (and Indonesian) brain corruption isn’t about being derogatory or harmful—it’s simply absurd.
Caldwell, who has been engaged with memes for 15 years, admits he doesn’t track every fleeting online trend. “But I genuinely enjoy this,” he remarks. “In my view, it’s the better side of memes.”
The simplicity and speed of creating these videos using tools like ChatGPT have contributed to the meme’s popularity. Users can prompt their AI to visualize something like Bombardiro Crocodilo in their preferred settings. “No prior video editing skills are necessary, nor do you have to use your own voice,” Caldwell notes.
For adults apprehensive of AI advancements, the Italian brain corruption can feel like a harmless indulgence. “It’s a non-threatening application of AI that doesn’t induce existential dread.”
Naturally, young people don’t view it in such a serious light. They spend more time online from an earlier age, significantly influencing digital culture. “You’ve got a super online kid today,” Caldwell remarks. “They grew up around iPads and TikTok, creating content and dictating the biggest cultural trends of the moment.”
Before Italian brain rot, there was the Skibidi Toilet meme, which spread virally from YouTube in 2023, captivating the younger generation of Gen Z, with millions of views.
Tim recalls discussing it in class: “The kids adore it. The term ‘Skibidi’ is now embedded in Gen Z and Gen Alpha vernacular.”
However, its meaning isn’t straightforward and is steeped in ironic ambiguity. “It can signify something good, something bad, or something bizarre… When they refer to it as ‘Skibidi,’ it’s a positive thing, and they’re laughing at it simultaneously.”
Both Skibidi Toilets and Italian brain corruption resist clear definitions, stimulating youthful imaginations with surreal imagery and crude humor while leaving adults scratching their heads with their more subdued humor.
Ebies.
“AI Art” isn’t just a shortcut for older users primarily active on Facebook, Caldwell states. Ebies example (please check). It increasingly cultivates its own lexicon, customs, and meanings that often elude many adults.
It’s intriguing to hear people declare that past memes were superior. Examine the originality of templates such as distracted boyfriends and layered visual jokes demonstrating endless possibilities for meaning-making. However, Caldwell—a millennial himself—suggests that Italian brain corruption represents another evolution in human creativity. “AI produces images, and text-to-speech gives voice, but the humor originates from the real person behind the screen.”
Tim is skeptical, noting that when he sets creative writing tasks for his class, many leap straight into their favorite Italian brain-rotting creatures. “I worry that the AI generation lacks moments for spontaneous imagination, as AI does so much for them. I tell them, ‘This must be entirely our creation. I don’t want chimpanzees bananini.'”
Nevertheless, he has started incorporating the students’ enthusiasm for Italian brain corruption into his lesson plans. In a multiple-choice quiz, one of the options is Tung Tung Tung Sahur.
He now confidently addresses his eighth graders. “My favorite is Blueberrinni Octopussini,” he shares. “It’s an octopus blended with blueberries.”
wGlacier researcher John Moore began exploring the Arctic Circle in the 1980s. The continuous warming of this area has led to the disappearance of many glaciers, as noted in The Arctic heats 4 times faster. They have simply melted away, outpacing global averages.
Four decades later, Moore’s research network identified an Arctic university. 61 Potential Interventions aim to slow, halt, and reverse the impacts of regional climate change. These concepts are regularly updated. Some will be discussed at a meeting in Cambridge this week, where scientists and engineers will explore whether radical technical solutions can buy time and mitigate the loss of polar ice caps.
Dr. Sean Fitzgerald excavates the ice. Photo: Real Ice/Cambridge University
“We aim to distill them down to about 10 concrete ideas,” Moore asserts, although he hasn’t yet shared specific developments. He emphasizes that the study should exclude “non-starters and hopeless ideas.” If no action is taken over the next 30 years, it may indeed be too late.
The focus should be on rationally valuing these interventions; otherwise, they are merely speculation.
“None of these ideas will solve every issue,” Moore states, emphasizing the need to weigh potential costs against perceived benefits.
Dr. Sean Fitzgerald, director of the Climate Restoration Center at Cambridge University, which is hosting the conference, reflects on a 30-year journey of “unpaid progress” that has slowed the climate crisis, shifting focus towards preserving the Arctic.
“I felt obligated to expand knowledge into broader fields,” he notes. Among the more unusual ideas discussed is the concept of a 10km sunshade suspended between airships the size of Zeppelins and creating corridors for fixed rafts to assist Arctic wildlife reliant on ice. Other measures, such as the initiative by British startup Real Ice and a Dutch company, are underway, which involve pumping water onto ice to refreeze it.
Critics voice concerns about the ethical and legal implications of many proposed interventions, making geoengineering a contentious topic. For instance, in 2021, the Sami Council, representing the Saami people in Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Russia, voiced opposition against Harvard-led pilot projects that aimed to test stratospheric aerosol injection (Science), which simulates volcanic eruptions by dispersing aerosols in the stratosphere to reflect sunlight. The Sami Council branded the plan as a “real moral hazard.”
Inuit hunters navigate through meltwater in West Greenland. Photo: Lawrence Hislop/Alendal
The interventions have undergone extensive study, including those identified by Moore for mitigating the Arctic climate emergency. However, many proposals are unlikely to go beyond theoretical stages and require substantial funding or large-scale implementation.
Thus far, ocean-based concepts present additional uncertainties, limitations, and risks, and the study has deemed them “unsuitable for further consideration,” scoring very low against most evaluation criteria.
One such idea, modifying ocean currents, was first proposed during the Cold War, when suggestions were made to block the Bering Strait to enhance Arctic livability. Years later, climate activist Rolf Schttenhelm proposed a similar initiative aimed at increasing Arctic sea ice.
One small-scale solution currently being implemented involves pumping water onto ice to refreeze it. Photo: Real Ice/Cambridge University
“It’s very easy to make mistakes, and no one knows the definitive answer,” Moore reflects. “Local benefits must be balanced with the hope for global gains.”
Fitzgerald remains cautious about any solutions he considers to be frontrunners, underscoring the importance of keeping an open mind and exploring a variety of approaches.
Meanwhile, SAI and Marine Cloud Brightening (MCB) are drawing significant interest. Professor Peter Wadham, leader of the Polar Ocean Physics Group at Cambridge University, describes MCB as a “very powerful” option. “It’s advantageous because it can be implemented on a small scale, allowing for cessation of activities if negative impacts arise,” he asserts.
Wadham is less enthusiastic about SAI, labeling it a risky long-term strategy compared to MCB. Additionally, he finds the proposal to thicken sea ice unrealistic due to the sheer energy required. “It could work in limited scenarios,” he notes, “but not at an impactful scale. Marine Cloud Brightening stands out as the best and most thoughtfully designed approach.”
Hunters return to Kullorsuaq, the Inuit village in Greenland, nearby Melville Bay. Photo: Reda/Universal Images/Getty
Earlier this year, UK scientists announced plans for outdoor geoengineering trials, including Marine Cloud Brightening, funded by a £50 million government initiative. However, opposition has emerged from various sectors; a discussion was held in the UK Parliament this week, and the state of Tennessee has passed legislation banning geoengineering in the US.
Teenager language may make online bullying difficult to detect
Vitapix/Getty Images
The terminology of Generation Alpha is evolving faster than educators, parents, and AI can keep up with.
Manisha Meta, a 14-year-old student from Warren E Hyde Middle School in Cupertino, California, alongside Fausto Giunchiglia from the University of Trent in Italy, examined 100 expressions popular among Generation Alpha, those born from 2010 to 2025, sourced from gaming, social media, and video platforms.
The researchers then asked 24 classmates of Mehta, aged between 11 and 14, to evaluate these phrases along with contextual screenshots. The volunteers assessed their understanding of the phrases, the contexts in which they were used, and if they carried potential safety risks or harmful interpretations. They also consulted their parents, professional moderators, and four AI models (GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, and Llama 3) for the same analysis.
“I’ve always been intrigued by Generation Alpha’s language because it’s so distinctive; relevance shifts rapidly, and trends become outdated just as quickly,” says Mehta.
Among the Alpha generation volunteers, 98% grasped the basic meaning of a given phrase, 96% understood the context of its use, and 92% recognized instances of harmful intent. In contrast, the AI model could identify harmful usage only around 40% of the time, with Claude stumbling from 32.5% to 42.3%. Parents and moderators also fell short, detecting harmful usages in just one-third of instances.
“We expected a broader comprehension than we observed,” Mehta reflects. “Much of the feedback from my parents was speculative.”
Common phrases from Generation Alpha often have double meanings based on context. For instance, “Let’s Cook His” can signify genuine praise in gaming but may also mockingly refer to someone rambling incoherently. “Kys,” once short for “know yourself,” has now been repurposed to mean “kill yourself.” Another phrase that could hide malicious intent is, “Is it acoustic?”
“Generation Alpha is exceedingly vulnerable online,” says Meta. “As AI increasingly dominates content moderation, understanding the language used by LLMs is crucial.”
“It’s evident that LLMs are transforming the landscape,” asserts Giunchiglia. “This presents fundamental questions that need addressing.”
The results were published this week at the Computing Machinery Conference Association on Equity, Accountability and Transparency in Athens, Greece.
“Empirical evidence from this research highlights significant shortcomings in content moderation systems, especially concerning the analysis and protection of young individuals,” notes Michael Veal from University College London. “Companies and regulators must heed this and adapt as regulations evolve in jurisdictions where platform laws are designed to safeguard the youth.”
A As a teen in South Australia during the late 1980s, I developed a fascination with Australian New Wave Cinema, partly due to the Mad Max trilogy. One day in class, my high school English teacher rolled in a TV trolley and presented us with a screening of Nicholas Roeg’s classic. We were spellbound. Fast forward 40 years, and I’m now immersed in Death Stranding 2, Hideo Kojima’s expansive apocalyptic saga. Occasionally, it feels like I’m reliving that classroom experience. The game unfolds in a devastated Australia, where cities have vanished, and the landscapes are as stunning and prophetic as those in Roeg’s films.
After 45 hours of gameplay, I’ve made minimal progress in the storyline. Instead, I’ve explored the wilderness and delivered packages to remote outposts. Set in a world ravaged by catastrophic events, the game showcases a supernatural explosion that transforms the landscape. As you traverse the expansive ochre desert towards the coast, you witness sunsets behind shimmering mountain ranges, and tides reflecting the sky. Unlike typical open-world games, where environments remain static save for day/night cycles, Australia in Death Stranding 2 feels magical and ever-changing. Earthquakes might send boulders tumbling down mountains or trigger a massive dust storm, while snowy avalanches can engulf you. Along your journey, you can construct roads, power generators, and jump pads, all of which other players can discover and utilize. Each visit to a location feels novel.
Kojima cites George Miller as his inspiration, and the influence of the Mad Max films — with their chaotic, desolate energy — permeates the game. It examines the interplay between technology and isolation, portraying feudal tribes and scarce resources amidst an adrenaline-fueled atmosphere. Yes, he’s influenced by Roeg as well; while there are hints of mythic resonance from Walkabout, the game may lack the profound undertones of colonial guilt. On the remote fringes of the game map, a rocky outcrop evokes memories of Peter Weir’s Picnic at Hanging Rock.
The hallucinatory strangeness of the sun attacked… a picnic at Hanging Rock.
I’ve spent countless hours driving along the highways of this game, picking up parcels and delivering them to remote locations. Why? Sitting in front of the screen until 2am, I felt compelled to ensure that a shelter received its fluffy pajamas. The magic lies in creating a timeless Australian landscape that is subject to moments of extreme change — echoing the transcendental techniques employed by Weir. This world is both enchanting and menacing, which is utterly captivating.
A few years back, Weir expressed this about Picnic at Hanging Rock: “What I aimed to achieve was an oppressive atmosphere of unresolved tension. To evoke claustrophobia within both place and relationships. We labored intensely to construct a hallucinatory, mesmerizing rhythm that made you lose track of reality.”
In essence, that’s my experience with Death Stranding 2. It’s a game filled with hallucinations and engaging rhythms. You drive and drive, eventually returning to the same locale hours later—only now there’s a road or a marker left by another player who perished during the night. This creative interpretation of Australian landscape captures what Grand Theft Auto has aspired to achieve in American cities. It’s about interpreting and distilling a sense of place from an outsider’s lens. So, when I finally unlocked a new area for exploration, the sense of wonder mirrored my first viewing of Walkabout on a rainy afternoon in Manchester. I’m certain it will take me months to uncover it all.
What to Play
A philosophical comedy… a Quantum Witch. Photo: Nikki J.
A few months ago, I interviewed the creator of Quantum Witch, a unique pixel art adventure about a shepherdess who lost her flock and was caught in a metaphysical conflict between clashing gods. Nikki Jay, raised in a religious cult, escaped to forge her own path, and her experiences deeply inspire the game.
Developed with minimal assistance from Paul Rose, the inventor of the iconic Teletext Gaming Gin digitizer for Channel 4, it blends point-and-click mechanics with a postmodern deconstruction of the genre, punctuated with eccentric undertones. If you enjoy irreverent humor, you’ve come to the right place, or you’re simply looking for something delightful and quirky.
Available at: PC Estimated playtime: Five hours or more
What to Read
Bad news? …Mindseye. Photo: IO Interactive
In more troubling news for game industry employees—Mind-Annoyed Developers have begun to Make a Rocket Boy. Following a disastrous launch, the studio has seen significant layoffs. Games plagued by bugs and AI glitches have received negative reviews from both players and critics, with IGN reporting that up to 100 staff members have been let go. What a disaster.
Eurogamer features an amazing interview with voice actor Ashley Burch, discussing whether video games can positively impact mental health. Burch shares her own experiences with obsessive-compulsive disorder and how Harvest Moon 64 aided her coping mechanisms.
We love in-depth explorations of classic video games, and Gamespot has produced an amazing piece about how a designer crafted the best level in Deus Ex—the Aeon Storm, a legendary role-playing adventure from Dallas Studios, filled with intriguing details about the alternative rendition of Hong Kong.
A peculiar narrative, a short play… The Rest of Edith Finch. Photo: Annapurna Interactive
This comes from Adam:
“I’ve been enjoying Be Brave, Barb, from the developers behind the fun Daddish series. I appreciate its straightforward, bite-sized gameplay, reminiscent of my experiences with the Game Boy Kirby titles.”What’s your favorite snack-sized game?
After my initial experience with the eerie short horror title Thin, I’m now obsessed with curious mini horror games, adding titles like Mouse Washing, Murder Case, and PT to my list. I’m also fond of classic PlayStation minigames like BISHIBASI Special and Point Blank. From the rest of the team, Keza is into WarioWare, The Lonely Mountain, and Pokémon Trading Card Game (“yes, still,” she says). Tom Regan enjoys Edith Finch’s Remains, Florence, and Inside; Christian Dongran mentions short-burst games like Loop Hero, Tetris Effect, and Sifu, while also noting, “Guardian Quick Cryptic is my favorite ten minutes of the week.” Sarah Maria Griffin loves Short Hike, and of course, the delightful Untitled Goose Game is a perfect little gem.
If you have questions or feedback regarding the newsletter, don’t hesitate to reply or email us at butingbuttons@theguardian.com.
Training in Bystander CPR may have played a key role in decreasing heart attack fatalities over the last 50 years
Piyamas Dulmunsumphun / Alamy stock photos
Heart attack fatalities in the US have dramatically decreased over the last five decades, while deaths from chronic heart diseases have surged, potentially due to increased longevity.
“Significant strides have been made in reducing cardiac mortality, and we’re witnessing this transformation,” says Sarah King from Stanford University in California.
She and her team analyzed heart disease mortality data from 1970 to 2022, utilizing the American disease control and prevention database to monitor all recorded deaths nationwide.
In 2022, they discovered that heart disease constituted 24% of all US deaths, a decrease from 41% in 1970, significantly aided by nearly a 90% drop in heart attack fatalities, previously the deadliest form of heart disease.
“We’ve made remarkable progress in reducing heart attack deaths over the past half-century,” remarks King. This includes innovations such as cardiac stents, coronary artery bypass surgery, and cholesterol-lowering therapies. King also believes that public health initiatives, including Bystander CPR training and efforts to decrease smoking rates, have contributed to these improvements.
Nonetheless, the rise in mortality from other types of cardiac ailments has surged by 81%, indicating that many chronic conditions are leading to increased deaths. For instance, fatalities from heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertensive heart disease have surged by 146%, 106%, and 450%, respectively.
“Many of these issues are related to aging,” explains King. “Those who survive heart attacks seem to live longer, giving them more time to develop these chronic heart conditions.”
However, the statistics might overstate changes in cardiac mortality. “Various factors can lead to a person’s death, resulting in potential misclassification and oversimplification,” King warns. For instance, many patients succumb to heart failure following a heart attack. “It’s not a straightforward issue because the underlying reason for that heart failure is often a blockage in the coronary arteries,” she adds.
Still, the majority of heart disease fatalities aren’t directly caused by heart attacks. “Addressing these other causes of increased mortality will be crucial,” King states. “Discovering healthier aging methods will be the next frontier for heart disease.”
Are there any forms of suspended animation? If you consider how animals hibernate during winter, that’s a natural example. However, if we reference the science fiction concept of stasis—where an individual is placed in a pod and frozen to endure an interstellar voyage—then it’s more of a fantasy.
That said, there are several realistic applications, particularly if we can address the challenges of preserving human tissues through freezing.
For decades, the possibility of employing cold temperatures to slow down biological processes has been recognized, and we’ve recently started using this method as a critical life-saving intervention.
For instance, patients experiencing a heart attack can undergo what is formally termed “suspended animation for delayed resuscitation,” wherein they are rapidly cooled to induce hypothermia. This process slows bodily functions and safeguards vital organs, especially the brain, albeit at the cost of disrupting blood circulation.
This approach significantly reduces the chances of brain damage and proves incredibly effective, allowing individuals to survive without treatment for up to 90 minutes.
This form of suspended animation entails dropping body temperature to approximately 59°F (15°C), compared to the usual 98°F (37°C). Temperatures below this threshold can result in cellular death.
Once the temperature dips below freezing, the large volume of water within cells turns problematic. Ice forms and expands, creating sharp crystals that can damage delicate cells and blood vessels.
Those who have suffered frostbite can attest to the harmful effects of extreme cold on body tissues. Completely freezing a person would be fatal.
Nevertheless, we successfully freeze human embryos, which can remain frozen for as long as 19 years before being thawed and developing into healthy infants.
The suspended animation envisioned in science fiction remains a distant reality – Illustration credits: Daniel Bright
Embryos typically freeze at an early stage when they consist of only a few cells, and they survive thanks to prior preparation. Protective agents are used to draw out water and prevent the formation of ice crystals.
These embryos are then rapidly frozen in a tank of liquid nitrogen at -196°C (-320°F), allowing for prolonged storage in suspended animation.
North American Wood Frog employs a similar strategy to survive winter. As the temperature drops, it can inundate its cells with glucose (a natural antifreeze), effectively freezing itself until both heart and brain functions cease.
The frog’s organs are encased in ice, yet the glucose inhibits ice crystals from forming within its tissues.
As temperatures rise, it gradually thaws and resumes normal activity. This process is a complex challenge for humans; every body part would necessitate risky water extraction and chemical solutions.
Hibernation represents a different strategy. Small rodents, such as mice and hedgehogs, permit their body temperatures to drop significantly, leading to a marked decrease in breathing and heart rate.
Larger mammals don’t need to reduce their body temperatures as drastically. For example, American black bears may drop from 36°C to 30°C (96°F to 86°F), reducing their metabolic rate by about 25%. This is usually sufficient to avert bone and muscle loss resulting from prolonged inactivity.
Being frozen is far from ideal, and for large mammals, it may be more advantageous than suspended animation through a hibernation-like state.
This article responds to the inquiry (from Safia Hall via email) regarding whether suspended animation has ever been realized.
Please feel free to email your questionsto Question @sciencefocus.com or message us onFacebook,Twitter, or Instagram(don’t forget to include your name and location).
Explore our ultimateFun Facts and more amazing science content.
Thirst is something we all encounter, and it can be quite uncomfortable. It’s also an early indicator of dehydration, which can escalate rapidly. Depending on factors like age, health, and environment, even mild to moderate dehydration can occur within just a few hours, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and confusion. If left unaddressed for 24 hours, severe dehydration can lead to critical issues such as shock and seizures.
Hidden dehydration (or hypochronic dehydration) is a more subtle condition that may arise from prolonged mild dehydration, affecting both physical and mental well-being.
Could this be the reason behind that frightening afternoon slump?
The Impact of Hidden Dehydration
As the name implies, hidden dehydration can be an insidious state, and you might be experiencing its effects without realizing the cause.
According to NHS guidelines, fatigue is one of the primary symptoms associated with hidden dehydration.
Symptoms include: Dark urine Dry mouth Dizziness Headaches Lack of concentration
The human body is composed of around 60% water. The brain and heart contain about 73% water, while muscle tissues are made up of 75% water. Dehydration leads to lower blood volume and blood pressure, reducing blood flow to the brain, which contributes to fatigue. After lunch, many individuals naturally feel a drop in energy. However, inadequate hydration throughout the day can amplify this slump.
The NHS advises that adults should drink 6-8 glasses of water (1.2-2 liters) daily. Although staying hydrated is key, how much do we know about the quality of the water we consume?
Why Water Quality Matters
In the UK, we are fortunate to have high standards for drinking water recognized globally. Nonetheless, it still contains hard minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are harmless but may affect the taste for some individuals.
A consistent supply of fresh water can indeed help you meet your hydration goals as advised by the NHS.
“Installing a water filter is one of the simplest methods to enhance your tap water quality,” states Waterdrop Filter. “A filter can eliminate impurities and improve taste.”
What Is Reverse Osmosis?
Reverse osmosis is a purification method used by Waterdrop filters. Water is pushed through a semi-permeable membrane to remove various impurities, including:
Lead, arsenic, and mercury Chlorine and fluoride Microorganisms Dissolved salts and minerals
The Waterdrop filter offers two reverse osmosis systems: the X16 and the A2. The X16 features an 11-step process with a 0.0001μm RO membrane that effectively reduces TDS, PFOA, PFOS, chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, lead, and more. With a flow rate of 1,600 gallons per day, it is ideal for larger households. Note that it requires electrical installation under the sink, and it comes equipped with LED lights and energy-saving modes for water safety.
The A2 is a compact countertop system ideal for individuals or smaller households. This system includes a five-stage process with a 0.0001 μm RO membrane to minimize TDS, PFOA, PFOS, chlorine, fluoride, lead, and arsenic. It features temperature controls ranging from 10°C to 95°C, along with a touch control screen for customizable temperature and volume settings.
Elevate your hydration habits by maintaining consistent water intake throughout the day, especially if you struggle with brain fog and fatigue during the afternoon.
A prominent academic institution has accused Uber of utilizing opaque software algorithms to significantly boost profits while negatively impacting drivers and passengers using their ride-hailing platform.
Research conducted by scholars at Columbia Business School in New York determined that the Silicon Valley company has adopted a systematic and selective approach to “algorithmic price discrimination,” which “raises rider fares and severely diminishes driver earnings to the tune of billions.”
The Ivy League Business School’s findings are based on an analysis involving “tens of thousands of rides… amounting to over 2 million…” travel requests, and it builds upon a recent study from the University of Oxford concerning 1.5 million UK trips published the previous week.
The UK research revealed that many Uber drivers in the UK have reported “substantially reduced” earnings since the introduction of the “dynamic pricing” algorithm in 2023, correlating with the company capturing a significantly larger share of fare revenue.
The US report, authored by Len Sherman, highlights that as a passenger, acceptance appears less favorable, while he expresses amazement at what has been accomplished.
Sherman’s report remarked: Reducing driver payments while enhancing their take rate significantly contributes to improving cash flow during the study’s duration.
Sherman noted that the advanced pricing introduced in the U.S. in 2022 is akin to the UK dynamic pricing algorithm implemented in 2023, significantly affecting passenger fares.
Columbia’s study, which examined trips made by 24,532 U.S. Uber drivers, concluded that the new algorithm has “modified the distribution of net rider fares among driver incomes.”
The recent Oxford study found that following the rollout of dynamic pricing, Uber’s median take-rate per driver surged from 25% to 29%, with some trips exceeding 50%.
These findings contribute to a growing list of controversies surrounding technology companies, including a 2021 UK Supreme Court ruling affirming that Uber drivers are entitled to a minimum wage and paid leave, along with the 2022 disclosure of the Uber Files, a global investigation revealing the company’s efforts to bypass police and regulations while secretly lobbying governments worldwide.
Following the release of the Uber Files, Jill Hazelbaker, Uber’s Vice President of Public Relations, stated:
An Uber spokesperson remarked, “Uber’s pricing structure aims to be transparent and equitable for both riders and drivers. The prepaid pricing is disclosed prior to booking, enabling drivers to make informed choices based on a full understanding of wages, distance, and expected duration.”
“Our dynamic pricing algorithms function to synchronize real-time supply and demand, enhancing the platform’s overall reliability. The prepaid pricing model is not personalized, and our pricing algorithms do not utilize personal information from individual riders or drivers.”
“Last week, the company reiterated: [the University of Oxford] Report. All drivers are guaranteed to earn at least the national living wage.”
The Outer Worlds 2 from Obsidian is set to be his inaugural first-party Xbox release, priced at $80 (£70). While the cost of games on the Nintendo Switch 2 is notably high, particularly as Sony’s PlayStation 5 titles have been trending in that direction, you might assume this development wouldn’t ignite a debate among gamers. Yet, it has. The increasing prices of video games continue to be a hot-button issue, especially with the ballooning budgets typically associated with blockbuster titles today. Nevertheless, Outer Worlds 2 promises a more expansive and intricate experience compared to its 2019 comedic sci-fi predecessor, and one could reasonably argue that the price reflects this enhanced value.
I thoroughly enjoyed the original Outer Worlds. It was vibrant with the signature dark humor expected from an Obsidian RPG (the studio behind Fallout: New Vegas). The lush, saturated universe filled with vibrant flora, bumbling activities, and eccentric characters provided joy for approximately 20 hours, although the combat left something to be desired.
According to game director Brandon Adler, Obsidian was aware that gunplay in the Outer Worlds required enhancements from the outset, especially when developing a sequel. “We valued this feedback, so we completely reassessed our approach,” he mentioned during an interview following the Outer Worlds 2 presentation in Los Angeles. “We also consulted with Hello. Everyone…they provided us with an extensive list of suggestions, advising us on what to target and how to improve our weapon analytics.”
Obsidian’s research has yielded impressive results. Not only are there more weapons to engage with in Outer Worlds 2, but they also feel rewarding to fire and offer a variety of combat tactics based on different encounters. A solid stealth approach allows players to sneak into enemy territory without a trace, should they choose to avoid confrontation. In the original game, firing was fun but could often lead to moments of disdain before entering into large battles. This has shifted in the sequel; I found enjoyment in every encounter, skillfully aiming and executing moves as I descended upon my targets.
“We didn’t want mere tweaks. Every weapon feels distinctly unique, each with its individual purpose,” Adler expresses. “You can take these weapons, apply mods, and create all sorts of imaginative combinations.”
The game also harnesses the capabilities of its upgraded engine (Unreal Engine 5) and modern hardware, making the world feel larger than before. For instance, entering a building no longer requires loading screens that could momentarily pull players out of the immersive experience. “These small details contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere,” Adler states. “Exploration is paramount for me; I want players to feel compelled to delve into this expansive universe, explore every avenue, and investigate even the tiniest features.”
Outer Worlds 2 promises a more expansive setting, refined combat mechanics, and an abundance of customization options, alongside its role-playing elements that can dramatically affect gameplay, including enhanced character perks and flaws. Although Adler refrained from commenting on the $80 price point, it is evident that this sequel stands on its own merit.
Researchers have found that endangered species of killer whales in the Pacific Northwest utilize tools crafted from kelp for mutual care.
A new study published in Current Biology reveals that scientists observed the Southern resident whales producing tools by tearing bull kelp and rolling it between each other during social interactions.
Drone footage captured the kelp being pushed against a companion, revealing a whale engaged in an extended grooming session.
“What’s particularly remarkable is that although this behavior appears to be common, despite the regular drone observations over these whales for nearly 50 years, it has never been documented.” stated Lead author Dr. Michael Weiss from the Whale Research Center in Friday Harbor, Washington.
The endangered Southern resident population has fewer than 80 individuals residing in the Salish Sea, situated between British Columbia and Washington.
While tool use is well recognized among primates, elephants, and birds, it remains scarce in marine species.
Weiss and her team observed this behavior across various age groups and social units, noting that whales are more inclined to groom relatives or older companions.
Two whales interact by rubbing against each other. These scrubs may serve hygienic functions. – Whale Research Center, NMFS NOAA permit 27038
Whales with greater amounts of dead skin participated more frequently in this behavior, suggesting a connection to hygiene.
The findings underscore the cultural identity of Southern residents and emphasize the necessity of conservation efforts. It remains uncertain whether this tool-assisted grooming is exclusive to this group or if it occurs in other whale populations.
Weiss remarked, “It was incredibly thrilling to discover that whales are not just utilizing tools but employing them in ways previously unreported in marine mammals.”
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
