Mondo News

Amazon CEO Warns Staff: AI Poses Job Risks in Coming Years

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The CEO of Amazon informed the company’s office workers that opportunities in artificial intelligence will be available in the upcoming years.

Andrew Jassy advised his team that AI agents—tools designed to perform tasks autonomously—will lead to a reduction in workforce in specific AI areas, including chatbots.

“As we integrate more generative AI and agents, our work dynamics will transform,” he mentioned in a note to the team. “There will be fewer individuals in some existing roles, while others will shift to different types of work.

“It’s hard to predict the exact trajectory of this change, but we anticipate a decrease in our overall workforce in the coming years.”

Amazon currently employs 1.5 million individuals globally, with around 350,000 in corporate positions such as software engineering and marketing.

Recently, the CEO of BT, a UK telecommunications firm, stated that advancements in AI might lead to deeper job cuts in their company. Conversely, Dario Amodei, CEO of AI research firm Anthropic, noted that AI could potentially eliminate half of all entry-level office jobs.

Jassy projected that billions of AI agents will become integral to the everyday operations of companies and individuals alike soon.

“These AI agents will be present in virtually every company and industry. From shopping to handling daily tasks, many of these agents will assist in various aspects of life outside of work. Although not all of these agents have been developed yet, there is no doubt about their future impact.”

Jassy concluded his message by urging employees to engage with AI, emphasizing the importance of self-education and participating in training programs.

“Those who adapt to this change and familiarize themselves with AI—by developing and enhancing AI capabilities internally and delivering them to our customers—will play a crucial role in redefining the company,” he asserted.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), an influential international policy body, estimates that this technology could lead to job losses among skilled white-collar professionals in fields like law, medicine, and finance. According to the International Monetary Fund, 60% of jobs in advanced economies such as the US and the UK could be vulnerable to AI, with half at risk of being adversely affected.

On the other hand, the Tony Blair Institute advocates for broader AI adoption across public and private sectors, suggesting that while the private sector could see job reductions of up to 3 million in the UK, net losses will be counterbalanced by the creation of new positions thanks to technological advancements.

Discover the First Image from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory: Why You Can’t Miss the Clock Party!

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Vera C. Rubin Observatory

Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/A. Pizzaro D

I’ve never attended a watch party, unless you include a gathering with my two friends for the Taylor Swift: ERAS Tour (which featured themed snacks). But now, it seems watch parties are evolving beyond just movie releases. In fact, I’m gearing up to join a watch party for my new telescope in just a few days.

I was fortunate enough to be part of one of the first public groups to tour the Bella C. Rubin Observatory in Chile, a visit organized by New Scientist. Now, just two years later, I’m eagerly anticipating the first image that will be captured by this colossal telescope, scheduled for release on June 23rd.

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory stands as a marvel of engineering. It’s set to perform sky scans across the Southern Hemisphere within merely three nights. Over a decade, the observatory will conduct scans for ten nights as part of its legacy survey of space-time known as the LSST. This project promises to revolutionize our understanding of astronomy, unraveling longstanding mysteries, including those related to dark matter, and revealing new enigmas.

Clearly, the images and videos produced by the telescope will be breathtaking. To fully appreciate their detail, watching on a phone screen won’t suffice. Even a desktop display falls short. To capture the full glory of a single image, one would need to utilize 400 Ultra HD TVs, as per the LSST UK consortium. Consequently, the team is encouraging partner institutions worldwide to organize watch parties for a more immersive viewing experience.

The specifics of each watch party vary depending on the hosting institution, which may include planetariums, museums, or universities. For instance, events will take place at the Perth Observatory in Australia and at City University in Hong Kong. Numerous locations across the United States, including the Detroit Observatory in Michigan, will host watch parties where attendees can enjoy science demos and hear from local experts. A common thread across all these events is the live release of the first images and videos captured by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory at 11 AM EDT (11 PM GMT), with everyone tuning in to the live stream.

Processing the intricate details of each image can be a time-consuming endeavor. Not only is there the requirement to zoom out and appreciate the telescope’s expansive field of view, but also to zoom in on galaxies in unprecedented detail. Images produced by Rubin will offer greater resolution than those from the James Webb Space Telescope, covering similar sky areas with 45 moon-like objects while JWST operates with roughly three years of data. Additionally, a time-lapse video capturing how the sky evolves over time has been recorded by Rubin.

You’ll indeed be able to view the images online, as well as in issues of New Scientist once they’re published or shared on social media. However, if you want to celebrate this moment in a community setting, consider visiting this interactive map to discover a watch party near you—or, why not host one yourself? While you may miss the full definition on your home screen, you can still experience some of the thrill of witnessing the unveiling of these images and videos alongside others.

I’m excited to attend a local event, hoping to capture the sense of wonder I felt when I first stood inside the observatory and marveled at its grandeur. It’s a scale that helps us better understand our place in the cosmos, even when contrasted with the vastness of the universe.

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The Hidden Dangers of Dogs: What You Need to Know

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mosquitoes are notorious as some of the most lethal creatures on the planet, causing up to 1 million deaths annually due to the diseases they carry, such as malaria and dengue.

However, in the UK, we have 36 native mosquito species that rarely pose a significant threat, thus they do not constitute a part of the three-way tie for the deadliest creature in Britain.

One contender is the dog. Recently, Prime Minister Rishi Snack placed the American XL bully dog on the list of banned breeds after a rise in fatalities associated with dog attacks.

Statistics indicate an average of about three deaths annually. However, in 2022, ten individuals in England and Wales lost their lives due to dog bites. This unfortunate trend can largely be attributed to negligent ownership, particularly with the inclination to breed larger, more powerful dogs.

Small creatures can also be deadly. Therefore, bees and hornets are contenders for the title as well, as 0.5% of the population is allergic to stings, which can lead to fatal anaphylaxis, resulting in two to nine deaths in the UK each year.

The ultimate threat may be less apparent. Picture a serene scene with grazing cattle that cause approximately 4,000 accidents yearly in the UK.

Around five fatalities result from these incidents, primarily affecting the agricultural community, but pedestrians are also at risk. Cows, being prey animals, are instinctively protective of their calves.

Most mishaps occur when natural boundaries are disregarded. Cows can injure individuals by knocking them over or trampling them. It’s advisable to keep dogs on a leash and maintain a respectful distance from herds.

This article responds to the inquiry (Adrianna Gardner, Chelmsford) “What is the deadliest creature in the UK?”

Feel free to email us your questions at questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out through our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Research Reveals the Ancient Origins of Fish Biofluorescence

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Biofluorescence, the process of absorbing high-energy light and re-emitting it as low-energy wavelengths, has been observed in various vertebrate and invertebrate lineages, particularly among fish. Research conducted by the American Museum of Natural History indicates that fish biofluorescence can be traced back at least 112 million years and has evolved over 100 times, predominantly in fish inhabiting coral reefs.

Phylogenesis of teleosts showing ancestral state reconstruction (absence/present) of biological fluorescence. Image credit: Carr et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-59843-7.

“Researchers have long known that biological fluorescence is prevalent in marine creatures, including sea turtles and corals, particularly among fish,” stated PhD Emily Kerr, a student at the American Museum of Natural History.

“To truly grasp the reasons and methods behind this unique adaptation, we need to explore the evolutionary background and the variety of biofluorescence currently utilized for camouflage, predation, or reproduction.”

In a first study published in the journal Natural Communication, Carr and colleagues investigated all known biological fluorescent extents, focusing on a species of bony fish, which comprises the largest living vertebrate group today.

This research identified 459 biological fluorescent species, including 48 previously unrecognized as biologically fluorescent.

The researchers discovered that biological fluorescence has evolved over 100 times in marine teleost fish, dating back to approximately 112 million years ago, with the initial occurrence found in eels.

Furthermore, fish species residing in or near coral reefs developed biological fluorescence approximately ten times faster than their non-reef counterparts, leading to a surge in fluorescent species following the mass extinction event around 66 million years ago that wiped out non-avian dinosaurs.

“This pattern coincides with the emergence of modern coral reefs and the rapid infiltration of fish into these environments, particularly after a significant loss of coral diversity due to the Cretaceous extinction,” Kerr explained.

“These relationships imply that the rise of contemporary coral reefs may have spurred the diversification of fluorescence in reef-associated teleost fish.”

Among the 459 documented biological fluorescent extents indicated in this study, the majority are linked to coral reefs.

In a second survey published in the journal PLOS 1, Kerr and co-authors employed a specialized photographic system with ultraviolet and blue excitation lights, alongside emission filters, to analyze the wavelengths emitted by fish from the ichthyology collection at the American Museum of Natural History.

These specimens, collected over the past 15 years during museum expeditions to locations like the Solomon Islands, Greenland, and Thailand, had shown fluorescence previously; however, the full spectrum of biological fluorescence emissions remained unexplored.

This study unveiled a broader diversity in the colors emitted by teleost fish, with some displaying at least six distinct fluorescence emission peaks across various wavelengths, surpassing prior reports.

“The unexpected variation observed among a wide array of these fluorescent fish suggests that they may utilize highly diverse and intricate signaling systems based on species-specific fluorescent emission patterns.”

“As these studies illustrate, biological fluorescence is extensive and remarkably phenotypically diverse among marine fish.”

“Our goal is to enhance our understanding of how fluorescence operates within these varied marine ecosystems and its role in evolutionary diversification.”

“The multitude of fluorescence emission wavelengths identified in this study could significantly impact the discovery of new fluorescent molecules that are routinely employed in biomedical applications, including the diagnosis and treatment of fluorescence-related ailments.”

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Carr et al. 2025. The extensive evolution of repeated biological fluorescence in marine fish. Nat Commun 16, 4826; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-59843-7

Carr et al. 2025. Marine fish display exceptional variability in biological fluorescence emission spectra. PLOS 1 20 (6): E0316789; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316789

Source: www.sci.news

Alma Identifies Molecular Activity in the Largest Known Oort Cloud Comet

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers from the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (Alma) have made observations of comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein).

Artist depiction of Comet C/2014 UN271. Image credits: NSF/AUI/NSF/NRAO/M.WEISS.

C/2014 UN271 was identified by astronomers Pedro Berner Dinnelli and Gary Bernstein through images captured in 2014 as part of dark energy research.

The comet spans approximately 140 km (85 miles) in diameter, making it over ten times larger than any known comet.

To date, little has been understood about the behavior of such cold, remote celestial bodies.

Recent findings from Alma revealed the intricate and dynamic jets of carbon monoxide gas erupting from the comet’s nucleus, offering the first direct evidence of what drives its activity in relation to the sun.

“With these measurements, we can understand how this massive, icy world functions,” stated Dr. Nathan Ross, an astronomer affiliated with a U.S. university and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

“We are observing explosive outgassing patterns that raise new inquiries about the comet’s evolution as it journeys deeper into the inner solar system.”

Alma observed C/2014 UN271 by detecting light from carbon monoxide gas in its atmosphere and thermal radiation when the comet was still distant from the sun.

Thanks to Alma’s exceptional sensitivity and resolution, scientists were able to focus on the very faint signals emitted from such cold and far-off objects.

Building on previous Alma observations that characterized the comet’s substantial nucleus size, the new findings measured the thermal signal to accurately assess the size of the comet and the dust surrounding its nucleus.

Their measurements for the nucleus size and dust mass are in line with earlier Alma observations, affirming it as the largest cloud comet ever identified.

Alma’s precision in measuring these signals enabled this research, providing a clearer understanding of this distant, icy giant.

“This discovery not only represents the first detection of molecular outgassing in a record-setting comet but also offers a rare glimpse into the chemical and dynamic processes of objects from the farthest reaches of the solar system,” the astronomer added.

“As C/2014 UN271 approaches the sun, we anticipate more frozen gases will start to evaporate, revealing further insights into the comet’s primitive composition and the early solar system.”

“Such discoveries help address fundamental questions about the origins of Earth and its waters, as well as the formation of life-supporting environments elsewhere.”

The team’s research paper was published in Astrophysics Journal Letters.

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Nathan X. Ross et al. 2025. Initial detection of molecular activity in the largest known OORT cloud comet: Alma Imaging of The Sun at C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein). apjl 986, L22; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/add526

Source: www.sci.news

Triassic Sauropodomorph Dinosaurs Endured Severe Bone Infections

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A team of paleontologists from the University of Zurich has identified chronic instances of osteomyelitis (bone tissue infection) in Plateosaurus trossingensis, one of the well-known dinosaurs from the late Triassic period in Europe.

Diagram of Plateosaurus trossingensis skeletons featured in the Theoprati exhibition at the Museum of Natural History, University of Zurich. Image credits: Dupuy et al., doi: 10.1186/s13358-025-00368-3.

Plateosaurus trossingensis inhabited Europe around 220 million years ago during the late Triassic epoch.

These ancient creatures were approximately 8 m (26 feet) long and primarily walked on their hind legs.

In a recent study, paleontologist Jordan Bestwick and colleagues analyzed the skeleton of Plateosaurus trossingensis from the Klettgau Layer in Switzerland.

They discovered significant osteomyelitis in the dinosaur’s upper arm and right shoulder.

“Osteomyelitis affects various living animals, including humans, birds, and reptiles,” noted Dr. Bestwick.

“The condition has been documented in several dinosaur groups, including sauropods, leading us to assess and compare numerous specimens, including Plateosaurus.

“The impacted bones in the shoulders and upper arms displayed notably rough internal and external textures, altered shapes, and even fusion, which are broad indicators of osteomyelitis.”

Researchers find their discoveries particularly intriguing since this case represents the oldest recorded instance of osteomyelitis in dinosaurs, dating back to about 220 million years ago, and the extent of the infection was unusually large.

“Earlier studies highlighted localized infections, such as in toe bones or adjacent vertebrae,” Dr. Bestwick explained.

“It’s exceptionally rare to observe infections in a shoulder and the entirety of an upper arm.”

“While the initial cause of the infection remains unknown, it likely plagued the animal for a prolonged period, potentially rendering its right arm nonfunctional.”

These findings are detailed in a paper published in the Swiss Journal of Palaeontology.

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sfj dupuis et al. 2025. Osteology and histology of a Plateosaurus trossingensis (Dinosaur: Sauropodomorpha) from the Upper Triassic in Switzerland with advanced chronic pathology. Swiss J Palaeontol 144, 27; doi:10.1186/s13358-025-00368-3

Source: www.sci.news

The ancient creature boasted “goblin-like” teeth and a customizable tail.

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artistic reconstruction of Borguamondor

Karen Townsend

An extinct creature uncovered in North America offers fresh insights into the region’s life around 75 million years ago.

The creature has been described as “looking like a goblin jumping out of a rock,” according to Hank Woolley of the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum. This species, known as Monstaurus, is part of a group of reptiles that thrived during the late Cretaceous period. Woolley notes it could have been “around 3 to 4 feet from tail to tip.” “Best to stay away,” he warns.

Woolley named the species Borguamondor. The first part of the name derives from a Lord of the Rings character, while the second part is inspired by an invented Elvish word, referring to its bone armor — a trait shared with its relatives, modern Gira Monsters (Healoderma Sumpectum).

Remarkably preserved fossils were found in Utah two decades ago by Joseph Sertich. Initially, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute believed it was a prehistoric lizard. Sertich recalls, “I found a collection of scattered bones in a low, flat sandy area,” including the skull, vertebrae, jawbone, and parts of a hip bone.

Sertich encouraged Woolley to investigate the fossils at the museum in 2022. B. Amondor represents an extinct species of lizard known as the Monstaurus. They found evidence that some could shed their tails when injured, making it the oldest known example of this defensive strategy that modern lizards employ.

bones belonging to *Borguamondor*

Utah Natural History Museum/Bureau of Land Management

According to researchers, B. Amondor dined on small mammals, frogs, snakes, insects, and “things not primarily plants,” even considering dinosaur eggs as part of its “round-length” diet. Its habitat was likely a wetland ecosystem, quite hot and humid, resembling the modern-day U.S. Gulf Coast rather than the arid landscape we see today.

Randall Nydam from Midwest University in Illinois, though not involved in this research, emphasizes the cautionary aspect of the story, reflecting on the vulnerabilities of such formidable “monsters,” both ancient and modern. “We must also acknowledge that they are long gone,” he states, “vanished due to changing circumstances.”

Continuing the dialogue about B. Amondor, Sertich believes people should broaden their understanding of these creatures. “Imagining North America’s primal tropical forests should portray nightmare lizard-hunting dinosaurs navigating the underbrush and scaling trees,” he suggests.

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UK to Brace for Summers Over 40°C in the Next Decade, Warn Officials

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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It’s probable that extreme temperatures will persist during the UK’s summer months.

AFP via Henry Nichols/Getty Images

According to the Met Office, the UK must swiftly adapt to summer temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). This warning from the nation’s National Weather Service highlights the alarming rate of rising summer temperatures due to climate change.

In July 2022, Lincolnshire, eastern England, recorded an unprecedented temperature of 40.3°C (104.5°F), the highest for that month. Experts state that climate change has amplified the likelihood of such heatwaves by at least tenfold.

Furthermore, researchers caution that these extremes are part of a worrying trend. Under the guidance of Jillian Kay, the Met Office has utilized climate models to simulate over 2,500 UK summers to evaluate the potential for extreme heat under current climatic conditions.

The findings reveal a 50% chance of surpassing 40°C within the next 12 years, particularly affecting the southern and eastern regions of England, which are at higher risk for intense heat. The frequency of such extreme temperatures has surged dramatically in recent decades, increasing six times since the 1980s and nearly tripling since 2000.

Additionally, there is a 1% chance of temperatures breaching 42°C (107.6°F) annually, with the highest projected temperature for the UK under present conditions reaching 46.6°C (115.9°F), though such an extreme is described as “very rare,” according to Kay.

The simulations also provide meteorologists insights into the atmospheric conditions conducive to extreme heat in the UK. A primary scenario involves a persistent heatwave affecting Europe, with hot air moving across the southern and eastern coasts of England. Recently, the Met Office issued a warning of another heatwave forecasted for the UK due to the intense warmth persisting across the continent.

As temperatures rise, these heatwaves are becoming increasingly enduring. In the scorching summer of 1976, daytime temperatures surpassed 28°C (82.4°F) for two consecutive weeks. Today, under current climate conditions, similar temperatures can persist for over a month. Simulations indicate that exceeding 40°C could be feasible for 3-4 days even under existing conditions.

“We could experience temperatures a few degrees higher than the 40°C seen in July 2022, and we must be ready,” Kay emphasizes. The UK faced considerable challenges managing brief instances of heat above 40°C during that heatwave. More than 1,200 additional deaths were reported, rail travel was disrupted, schools closed, and wildfires raged throughout the country.

Kay urged public authorities, especially public health leaders, to “stress-test” systems to effectively handle such extreme temperatures. “The Met Office and similar entities have long predicted that climate change would lead to more intense and frequent heatwaves,” she states. “Our research confirms exactly that.”

Prolonged heatwaves pose significant risks. They not only strain the ecosystem but also dry out soil, wilt plants, and threaten animal life, while putting immense stress on human health, particularly when daytime and nighttime temperatures remain elevated for long durations. Extended heatwaves increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. This risk is particularly acute in regions less accustomed to sustained heat, like the UK, where air conditioning is uncommon.

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Bright Seifert Galaxy’s Ultra-Massive Black Hole Exhibits Signs of “Overeating”

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In a new research paper published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, astronomers from the University of Leicester explain for the first time how the “excessive diet” of fresh material in black holes has led to emissions reaching nearly a third of the speed of light.

This image illustrates Seyfert Galaxy PG1211+143. Image credits: Centre Donna Astromyk destrasbourg/Sinbad/SDSS.

The intense outflow of ionized gases has raised significant concerns at the ESA’s XMM-Newton X-ray observatory since its initial detection by University of Leicester astronomers in 2001, now recognized as a distinctive trait of the luminous active galactic nuclei (AGNs).

Professor Ken Pound and Dr. Kim Page from Leicester remarked:

“The black hole’s size increases with its mass, with a solar mass black hole having a radius of about 3 km.”

“Stellar mass black holes are prevalent across galaxies, often forming from the dramatic collapse of massive stars; however, ultra-massive black holes can be found in the nuclei of almost all galaxies except the smallest external ones.”

In 2014, astronomers undertook a five-week investigation of an ultra-massive black hole in the distant Seyfert Galaxy PG1211+143, located approximately 1.2 billion light-years from the constellation Coma Berenices.

Utilizing ESA’s XMM-Newton Observatory, they observed counter-inflows, accumulating at least 10 Earth masses near the black hole.

In their latest study, they detected a powerful new outflow traveling at 0.27 times the speed of light, initiated shortly thereafter. The gravitational energy released as material is drawn into the black hole is heated to millions of degrees, producing an overwhelming radiant pressure.

“Establishing a direct causal relationship between significant, temporary inflows and the resulting outflows offers an exciting perspective for observing the growth of supermassive black holes through continuous monitoring of the hot relativistic winds linked with new material accretion,” stated Professor Pound.

“PG1211+143 has been the focus of University of Leicester X-ray astronomers using ESA’s XMM-Newton Observatory since its launch in December 1999.”

“Initial findings surprisingly revealed a counterflow of rapid movements, reaching 15% of the speed of light (0.15c), affecting stellar formation (and consequently the growth) of the host galaxy.”

“Subsequent observations have shown that such winds are a common characteristic of bright AGNs.”

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Ken Pounds & Kim Page. 2025. Observations of the Eddington-style outflow from the bright Seyfert Galaxy PG1211+143. mnras 540(3): 2530-2534; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf637

Source: www.sci.news

Cryopreserved Seastar Larvae May Facilitate the Recovery of Key Species

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Giant pink star larvae resumed development after freezing at -200°C

Patrick Webster

In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers have successfully frozen and revived sea star larvae, marking a significant advance in conservation efforts aimed at restoring an endangered keystone species.

Since 2013, Coastal Star Wasting Syndrome has been devastating populations of sunflower stars (Pycnopodia helianthoides) and giant pink stars (Pisaster brevispinus) along the North American west coast. The decline of these predators has resulted in a major surge in sea urchins, decimating 97% of the kelp forests in Northern California.

Currently, the sunflower star is considered functionally extinct in California, sparking extensive efforts to cultivate these creatures for eventual reintroduction into their natural habitat.

In January 2025, a giant pink star was birthed at the Pacific Aquarium in Long Beach, California. Just two days later, its larvae were dispatched to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, where they were immersed in liquid nitrogen and stored at -200°C. The following month, they were transported approximately 700 kilometers north to the Sunflower Star Institute in Monterey Bay.

Upon careful thawing, the giant pink star larvae resumed their development, settling on the seabed and transitioning into a boy shape. “No one has ever successfully frozen a sea star at the larval stage and achieved this,” researchers noted.

Sunflower Stars play an important role in the Kelp forest ecosystem

Pat Webster

The successful cultivation of cryopreserved larvae represents a significant milestone for conservationists, as it opens up avenues for reintroducing genetically diverse sunflower stars back into California’s waters. “The larval cycle of the giant pink star closely resembles that of the sunflower stars,” explained Bank, “after which we will move forward with sunflower star rearing.”

Over the past 15 years, marine ecosystems in the North Pacific have faced a growing tide of environmental challenges. “It’s a daunting narrative involving climate change, ocean heat waves, and ecosystem collapse,” remarked Andrew Kim from the Sunflower Star Institute. “However, within Pycnopodia, there lies hope for recovery.”

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Biotechnology Firms Seek to Develop the “ChatGPT of Biology”: Does It Deliver?

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Basecamp researchers gather genetic data in Malta

Greg Funnell

A British biotech firm, Basecamp Research, has spent recent years gathering extensive genetic data from microorganisms inhabiting extreme environments worldwide, uncovering 10 billion new species among over a million scientifically recognized entities. This vast database of planetary biodiversity aims to assist in training “biology chats” to address inquiries regarding life on Earth, although its effectiveness remains uncertain.

Jorg Overmann from the Leibniz Institute DSMZ, which houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of microbial cultures, asserts that while an increase in known genetic sequences is beneficial, it likely won’t lead to significant discoveries in drug development or chemistry without deeper insights into the organisms from which they originated. “In the end, I’m skeptical that a better understanding of unique features will be achieved merely through brute force in the sequencing domain,” he remarks.

Recent years have seen a surge in machine learning models aimed at identifying patterns and predicting relationships within vast biological datasets. The most well-known of these is Alphafold, which can predict the 3D structure of proteins using only genetic data, and was awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry at Google DeepMind.

This “genometric biology” approach has grown significantly, but according to Francis Din at the University of California, Berkeley, progress has been limited. One reason for this is the underrepresentation of biodiversity data. “Current biological models are primarily trained with datasets that favor well-studied species (e.g., E. coli, mice, humans), leading to poor prediction capabilities for traits associated with sequences from other branches of the Tree of Life,” she explains.

Basecamp researchers aim to bridge this biodiversity gap. Their expanding database now includes samples from over 120 locations across 26 countries, as detailed in a report by the company. Jonathan Finn, the company’s Chief Science Officer, notes that their sampling efforts target extreme environments that have yet to be thoroughly examined, spanning from the icy depths of the Arctic Ocean to the warm jungle hot springs. “Most of the samples we’re prioritizing are prokaryotic: bacteria, microorganisms, and their viruses,” Finn states. “We are also aware that some fungi are present.”

Genetic analyses of these samples have illuminated gene variations that are broadly shared across the Tree of Life. Based on this research, the company estimates that their data encompasses over a million species of genetic information not found in public genomic databases utilized for training AI models. This includes around 9.8 billion newly identified genes, increasing the overall known gene count tenfold, each potentially encoding useful proteins, according to the researchers.

“By providing these models with richer data, we enhance our understanding of biological mechanisms,” Finn explains. “We aim to create a ChatGPT for Biology.”

It’s estimated that Earth hosts trillions of microorganism species, many of which remain poorly characterized. Thus, it’s not unexpected that the company has identified such a wealth of novel life forms. “As we explore more, discovering diverse gene variants becomes almost inevitable,” notes Leopold Parts at the Wellcome Sanger Institute in the UK.

Nevertheless, Basecamp promotes the notion that all newly discovered materials might hold value. It’s not alone in this sentiment. “This is among the most thrilling advances I’ve encountered in quite some time,” remarks Nathan Frey, a machine learning researcher at Genentech, a US biotech firm. He emphasizes that most AI biology projects focus on algorithm improvement or generating additional lab data rather than venturing out to collect samples directly from nature.

However, skepticism arises regarding whether this database will yield the meaningful advancements the company aspires to achieve. For starters, it remains uncertain how much this newfound diversity in proteins reflects valuable new functions like enzymes and proteins that can degrade plastic useful for gene editing. “They must demonstrate that this novelty has practical utility,” cautions Parts.

Moreover, if the new genes significantly differ from known genes, Overmann expresses doubts about how easily existing tools can predict functionality or how such data can be utilized for training new models. “I can’t discern the functions of most of my genes,” he states. The company may have created a valuable new repository of biological data, but in traditional lab settings, even the most advanced AI may still face challenges in interpretation.

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Can Reusable Rockets Mitigate the Risks of Solar Geoengineering?

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rockets can transport cooling aerosols to high altitudes

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Reusable rockets designed to deliver sun-reflecting aerosols into the upper stratosphere could help cool the planet. However, this fleet of climate-modifying rockets presents its own challenges.

The increase in global temperatures has led to a surge in research on solar geoengineering, a controversial method aimed at cooling the Earth by reflecting sunlight. The most recognized technique, known as stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), entails continuously releasing reflective particles, such as sulfur dioxide, into the stratosphere.

Typically, researchers believe that aerosols will be released from cargo aircraft flying at around 20 km high. Climate models suggest that this could offset warming caused by rising greenhouse gas levels. Nonetheless, it also presents numerous other climate risks, some of which are unknown.

One significant concern is that the aerosols absorb sunlight, warming the stratosphere itself, even while surface temperatures cool. Because of wind patterns, aerosols tend to cluster in the tropical stratosphere, resulting in more warming than in other areas of the atmosphere. This can disrupt jet streams and circulation patterns that influence global weather.

Aerosols may also hasten ozone depletion caused by chlorine, potentially postponing the recovery of ozone holes over Antarctica by as much as 50 years.

Pengfei Yu from Jinan University in China and his team explored whether injecting aerosols at much greater heights—50 kilometers in the upper stratosphere—would change these dynamics. They discovered that high-altitude injections could yield greater cooling benefits than lower altitude methods, as aerosols persist longer, particularly at the poles. This additional height also prevents the aerosols from warming the lower stratosphere until they reach the poles, avoiding the harmful heating in the tropical stratosphere.

Finally, researchers found that these aerosols interact with another chemical that depletes ozone, which results in only a five-year delay in ozone recovery. “We weren’t aware that [injecting at] 50 kilometers offered such a different perspective,” says Yu.

Since planes cannot reach nearly 50 km, researchers propose using rockets. They estimate that deploying 80 reusable, hydrogen-powered rockets every other day could inject between 3 million and 8 million tonnes of aerosols annually, which they say falls within current technological capabilities.

While this scenario may be theoretically feasible, it is likely to be significantly more complex than traditional SAI approaches, according to Douglas McMartin at Cornell University in New York. Some advantages, such as preventing warming in the tropical stratosphere, can be more easily achieved by focusing on higher latitudes instead of high altitudes.

“It may rise higher in the atmosphere for increased efficiency, but the costs are astronomical in comparison,” he states.

Moreover, the high-altitude method does not fully mitigate many risks associated with solar geoengineering, including the rapid temperature increase that could follow if injection ceases. “What happens if the rockets fail on the ground?” Yu questions. “That’s a legitimate concern.”

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Helgorand: Exploring the Past and Future of Quantum Physics on a Tiny Island

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Helgoland Island occupies a nearly mythical position in quantum mechanics history

Shutterstock/Markus Stappen

Having attended numerous scientific conferences, the recent one on Helgoland Island, marking a century of quantum mechanics, stands out as one of the most peculiar, in a positive sense.

This tiny German island, stretching less than a kilometer in the North Sea, exudes the ambiance of a coastal resort. Even during summer, its charm wanes, giving way to the scent of quaint streets filled with souvenir shops, fish eateries, and ice cream stalls. Picture cutting-edge experimenters in Quantum Technologies casually mingling after discussions at the town hall beside a miniature golf course—it’s quite an experience.

Our purpose here becomes evident as we stroll along the cliffside road, where a bronze plaque commemorates physicist Werner Heisenberg’s purported invention of quantum mechanics in 1925. While it sounds intriguing, it’s an embellishment; Heisenberg merely outlined some concepts here. The more recognized formulation came from Erwin Schrödinger in early 1926, who introduced wave functions to predict quantum system evolutions.

Nonetheless, this year clearly holds significance as we commemorate a century of quantum mechanics. Regardless of how much of Helgoland’s narrative stems from Heisenberg’s own embellishments—he recounted his breakthrough there several years later—this “Remote Control Island” serves as a unique venue for celebratory gatherings.

And what a celebration it is! It’s almost surreal to witness such a congregation of renowned quantum physicists. Among them are four Nobel laureates: Alain Aspect, David Wineland, Anton Zeilinger, and Serge Haroche. Collectively, they’ve validated the bizarre aspects of quantum mechanics, showcasing how the characteristics of one particle can instantaneously influence another, no matter the distance. They’ve also developed techniques to manipulate individual quantum particles, crucial for quantum computing.

In my view, these distinguished individuals would concur that the younger generation is poised to delve deeper into the implications of quantum mechanics, transforming its notoriously counterintuitive essence into new technologies and a better understanding of nature. Quantum mechanics is renowned for encompassing multiple interpretations of its mathematical framework concerning reality, with many seasoned experts firmly entrenched in their perspectives.

Helgoland’s plaque honors Werner Heisenberg’s role in quantum mechanics

Philip Ball

This divisive sentiment was noticeable during Zeilinger and Aspect’s evening panel discussion. Jill’s Brothers pioneered quantum cryptography at the University of Montreal.

In fairness to the veterans, their theories emerged under considerable skepticism from their peers, particularly regarding the significance of examining such foundational concerns. They navigated an era where “silent calculations” were prevalent—a term coined by American physicist David Mermin to describe how it was frowned upon to ponder the implications of quantum mechanics beyond merely solving the Schrödinger equation. It’s no wonder they developed thick skins.

In contrast, younger researchers seem more pragmatic in their approach to quantum theories, often adopting various interpretations as tools to address specific challenges. Elements of the Copenhagen interpretation and the multiverse theory are intertwined, not as definitive claims about reality, but as frameworks for analysis.

The new wave of researchers, such as Vedika Khemani from Stanford University, are actively bridging condensed matter physics and quantum information. I heard her highlight the evolution from storing information on magnetic tapes in the 1950s to the crucial error correction techniques in today’s quantum computing.

Quantum mechanics applications are on the rise, with theorists also stepping up their game. For instance, Flaminia Giacomini at the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich spoke about her pursuit of reconciling the granular quantum realm with the smooth continuous world required for quantum gravity, offering profound insights into the essence of quantum mechanics.

While some may consider this exploration to be veering into the realm of speculation, as seen in string theory attempts, Giacomini asserted, “There is no experimental evidence that gravity should be quantized.” Hence, empirical validation remains elusive, despite a wealth of theoretical discourse.

Excitingly, there are plans to test hypotheses in the not-so-distant future. For instance, examining whether two objects can entangle purely through gravitational interactions is a goal. The difficulty is ensuring the objects are substantial enough to exert meaningful gravitational pull while being sufficiently small to demonstrate quantum characteristics. Several speakers expressed confidence in overcoming this hurdle within the next decade.

The conference revealed the interconnectedness of quantum theories and experiments: perturbing one aspect inevitably influences others. Gaining a nuanced understanding of quantum gravity through delicate experiments involving trapped particles could shed light on black hole information paradoxes and inspire innovative ideas for quantum computing and the nature of quantum states.

Ultimately, achieving progress in any of these areas appears promising for uncovering the enduring questions that have fascinated Heisenberg and his contemporaries. What occurs when we measure quantum particles? However, rather than perceiving it as a repetitive struggle, it’s clear that quantum mechanics is much more sophisticated and intriguing than the founders ever envisaged.

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How Your Overlooked Memories Shape Your Decisions Today

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

When recalling memories, neural activity is sparked in different brain regions

Nopparit/Getty Images

Even forgotten memories appear to influence our behavior.

“People often perceive memories as something to reflect on or contemplate,” says Nick Turk Brown from Yale University, who was not involved in this research. “However, we don’t spend our days lost in past memories. We work, parent, and have fun. Our memories continuously shape our actions; I believe 95% of our cognitive processes operate in this unseen manner.”

Memory can be described in various ways. One perspective focuses on self-reported recollections, like what someone had for dinner yesterday or details about their seventh birthday. Another way to conceptualize memory involves the persistent networks of brain cells known as engrams, which create the biological representation of experiences we have memorized.

Many researchers have long believed that forgetting a memory implies the disappearance of its related engrams. However, studies on mice suggest that forgotten memories endure even when they cannot be consciously retrieved.

In a study led by Tom Willems from the University of Bern, Switzerland, 40 participants briefly viewed 96 pairs of images, including human faces and objects like guitars and staplers.

The researchers then monitored the participants’ brain activity while testing their memory of whether two images had been paired 24 hours prior, using high-resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging. Participants were also asked if they remembered seeing the images together, if they were uncertain, or if they were just guessing.

When they confidently recalled the images, participants correctly chose the paired images 87% of the time in both tests. Conversely, those who could not recall what they had seen managed to achieve about a 50% accuracy rate.

Participants uncertain of their memory estimated correctly 57% of the time after both 30 minutes and 24 hours, suggesting that this group may still retain some memory of the associations.

Interestingly, when guessers made the right choice, their brain activity patterns mirrored those of participants who confidently remembered, particularly in the relevant hippocampal regions.

During a follow-up test after 24 hours, individuals who believed they had forgotten remained active in the hippocampus, while those who recognized the images exhibited activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus of the neocortex.

As Amy Milton from Cambridge University states, “I suggest that the shift of memory activity to the neocortex is associated with recall, but it remains unclear whether this change is a cause or a result of what is remembered.”

Nevertheless, the findings align with a predominant theory of memory function, known as Standard Integration Theory, as explained by Turk Brown. This theory proposes that memories are initially formed in the hippocampus and later consolidated in the neocortex during sleep for long-term storage.

This research highlights a potential separation between the memories we consciously access and the associated engrams in the brain, according to Turk-Browne. “This offers a fascinating illustration of the subtle, automatic, and pervasive influence of hippocampal memories on behavior.”

“Essentially, what they propose is that some memories don’t have to be consciously searched for in order to influence behavior later,” Milton explains.

She expresses no surprise that strong memory traces can shape our actions without our conscious awareness, referencing the phenomenon of priming. Seeing or hearing something can subtly prompt specific responses without us discerning the reasons.

However, priming occurs in various brain regions, such as the prefrontal cortex, and as Turk-Browne notes, it typically produces only transient effects lasting seconds or minutes.

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Meta Sacrifices Billions at the Altar of AI

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In April, Mark Zuckerberg declared that the company would significantly increase capital expenditures in the coming year to enhance its position in the development of advanced artificial intelligence. Last week, he delivered on that commitment with the unveiling of a $15 billion “AI Superintelligence” team, boasting nine-figure salaries and a 49% stake in Scale AI. Meta has also brought aboard Alexandr Wang, the 28-year-old founder of Scale and former roommate of Sam Altman from OpenAI.

Prior to Meta’s investment, Scale was already servicing most major AI players, some of whom were not enthusiastic about the development. Bloomberg reports that the head of Scale AI now brings insight into the operations of other competitors. Google, Scale’s largest client, expressed concerns as the tech giant informed startups that their existing partnerships would be reconsidered Reuters reported on Friday.

My colleague, Robert Booth, has more insights:

One Silicon Valley analyst referred to the announcement as indicative of a “wartime CEO” mentality.

Super Intelligence is characterized as a form of AI that surpasses human capabilities in all areas—a current standard that remains unattained by existing AI systems, known as Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

In light of effective advancements by rivals including Sam Altman’s OpenAI and Google, and substantial investments in Meta’s underperforming Metaverse concept, observers are keen to see if Meta can meet its ambitious targets in AI.

While the scale of this financial commitment may suggest a lead in the AI race, Meta is actually playing catch-up. The company’s latest models lack the sophistication of competitor offerings. Earlier this year, it revealed a model that was adjusted to succeed on popular benchmarks—an unconvincing strategy. Its enormous financial outlay and new team formations aim to enhance its stature among industry leaders.

Discover more about Meta’s Superintelligence initiative here.

AI News Week

Wikipedia, essential to AI, struggles to showcase human contributions

Photo: Blake Montgomery

Last week, Wikipedia ceased its testing of AI-generated article summaries after backlash from editors and volunteers who contribute to the online encyclopedia. These AI-generated summaries were displayed above human-written introductions on the article pages. This experiment, which targeted around 10% of mobile users, lasted for two weeks.

Feedback was described as “strongly negative,” according to the nonprofit parent of Wikipedia. One editor expressed on the Public Forum: “A truly frightening idea.” Another stated, “Please exclude AI from Wikipedia.” Many joined in saying that this was uniquely detrimental. While some advocated for AI abstracts to simplify access to technical articles, the majority argued that errors and misinterpretations could harm Wikipedia’s reputation for reliability.

General sentiment among editors can be summarized as “Yuck.”

“We’re trying to balance AI integration with Wikipedia. There’s very minimal AI presence, just enough to aid editors and improve reader access,” explained one editor. The continual debate surrounds “What defines the line between human-generated and AI-generated content?”

In contrast, Reddit has begun charging for access to its application programming interfaces in 2023. This posting library is invaluable for AI companies, serving as a broad repository of contemporary human-written texts crucial for training large language models like ChatGPT. Reddit’s executives are leveraging this resource to monetize its value for AI firms. This decision has disrupted the user experience, particularly angering volunteer moderators and millions of community members who have protested the changes without success. They prioritized revenue from AI businesses over user satisfaction, starkly opposing Wikipedia’s approach.

A few days after Wikipedia rolled back its AI summary test, the Wikimedia Foundation hosted an in-person editing event at the United Nations. According to Rudder, the information manager, this gathering of a diverse group of editors was part of UN Open Source Week, coinciding with various open-source hackathons.

Editors interacted enthusiastically around laptops, collaborating on articles in multiple languages in a vibrant auditorium. Italian and Sri Lankan representatives acknowledged the vital work of editors in speeches, and Wikimedia Foundation executives expressed gratitude for their contributions, alongside UN Digital and Emerging Technology Governors. It was an energetic atmosphere.

Rudder emphasized the importance of in-person events, stating, “It fosters community. There’s a misconception that Wikipedia editors operate in isolation, when in reality, that’s far from the truth.” Wikimedia NYC recently organized the UN event, with Rudder observing it vital for connecting new editors to the community.

Like Reddit, Wikipedia’s vast text corpus serves as key training data for most, if not all, major language models. Wikipedia endorses a corporate approach to data access with Wikimedia Enterprise, which was launched in 2021. While Reddit operates for profit, the Wikimedia Foundation is a nonprofit entity. Although Wikipedia data remains available freely, utilization can be costly.

Unilike Reddit, Wikipedia emphasizes the human effort required to sustain the site and its information consistently by adjusting features in response to community feedback.

Technical Perspectives on the Anti-Deportation Protests in Los Angeles

Apple’s Walled Garden: From Eden to Pen

Photo: Apple Corps Ltd.

Recently, Apple hosted its annual WWDC developer conference, where the most significant announcement was a redesign of the iPhone operating system (iOS), referred to as “Liquid Glass.” The virtual buttons displayed on the iPhone screen appear transparent, allowing the background image to warp slightly, reminiscent of the colorful, translucent plastic used in older Macs.

The refreshed aesthetic is visually appealing but lacks excitement. Ultimately, it felt like a backdrop for news on Hurricane Prediction. How relevant is the color of my phone’s controls?

Of course, there were other updates, like live translations in FaceTime calls, enabling smoother communication with distant relatives and friends.

Yet overall, the updates lacked inspiration. Over the years, iPhone updates have seemed more forward-thinking than, for instance, the introduction of a second-generation 3G connection in 2008. Apple’s progress pales in comparison to the dynamic Android ecosystem. I once spoke with a venture capitalist in San Francisco in 2019, and I couldn’t even identify his iPhone model.

Unlike competitors, Apple has been slow to introduce new AI features. Google and Samsung have rapidly incorporated AI into their mobile offerings. For example, live translation has been a part of Android for years. Google’s Pixel Buds can convert speech in real-time, while Apple’s AirPods still lack this capability. Google consistently releases enticing, if sometimes quirky, AI updates.

Just last Friday, The Verge reported: Google is trialing audio summaries for specific search queries in its lab for English speakers in the US.

Following the demonstration, Gizmodo noted that while Apple recognizes that AI may not align with consumer desires, it can’t openly admit this. However, despite differing opinions on ChatGPT among monthly users, Apple’s announcements offered little substance. If Apple wishes to retain users within its ecosystem, it must deliver something captivating and valuable.

Last week, Google launched an updated version of its operating system, while Samsung unveiled features for its next foldable phone. Android Central. Have you heard about these developments? In tech journalism, it’s well-known that Apple and iPhone stories often receive more clicks than those about Android phones—despite a higher global market share for Android. The reasons behind this phenomenon warrant their own discussion. Many spent the week discussing Android updates, contrasting with Apple’s liquid glass interface. Apple’s updates seem primarily cosmetic, raising questions about their overall impact as they inspire humor instead of admiration.

Samsung’s seventh generation of foldable phones raises questions about the novelty in the smartphone market. When contemplating your new iPhone’s lack of excitement, what do you want it to achieve? There’s no inherent need for a folding phone. My Motorola Razr facilitated effective communication, but that wasn’t due to its physical design.

I find myself pondering the value of Google’s new AI feature. Although there may not be a consensus on what most users desire from an AI-enhanced smartphone, it’s clear that without innovation, stagnation occurs. I feel Apple fails to present remarkable features worth considering. While the audio summary for Google search results might seem unnecessary, it is indeed fascinating—particularly for the visually impaired. Meanwhile, Siri struggles with basic tasks like controlling Spotify and managing notifications.

Having relied on my iPhone as my primary device for roughly 15 years, I feel I’m at a turning point. It may soon be time to explore Android and discover the new shiny gadgets, especially as I navigate the Apple hardware and app ecosystem.

Wider Technology

OpenAI Secures $200 Million Contract with US Military for “Warfighting” Initiatives

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Monday, the US Department of Defense awarded OpenAI a contract worth $200 million to implement artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for military use.

The San Francisco-based firm is tasked with “developing prototype frontier AI capabilities to tackle critical national security challenges in both combat and enterprise areas,” as outlined in the Department of Defense award agreement.

As stated by OpenAI, this program marks the company’s inaugural partnership under a startup initiative aimed at integrating AI within government functions. In a blog entry, the organization intends to demonstrate how advanced AI can significantly enhance various administrative tasks, such as healthcare for service members and cyber defense.

The startup assures that all military applications of AI are in accordance with usage guidelines established by OpenAI.

The major tech company is, predictably, promoting its tools to the US military alongside Palantir, an AI defense firm established by Peter Thiel, a conservative tech billionaire influential in Silicon Valley’s rightward shift.

OpenAI and defense tech startup Anduril Industries announced a collaboration late last year to create and implement AI solutions “for security missions.” This partnership merges OpenAI’s models with Anduril’s military technologies to bolster defenses against drones and other “unmanned aerial vehicle systems.”

“OpenAI develops AI with the aim of benefiting as many individuals as possible and endorses US-led initiatives to ensure technology upholds democratic values,” stated Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI.

Physicists Unveil Heaviest Known Proton-Luminescent Isotope: Astatine-188

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

At the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Zibaskira in Finland, physicists utilized a gas-filled recoil separator focal plane spectrometer to observe two attenuation events of the newly discovered isotope astatin-188 (¹⁸⁸At), which is composed of 85 protons and 103 neutrons.

Kokkonen et al. Report the discovery of the new nucleus ¹⁸⁸At, which is the heaviest proton-emitting isotope known to date.

“Proton emission is a rare type of radioactive decay where the nucleus releases protons, moving toward stability,” explained Henna Kokkonen, a doctoral researcher at Zibaskira University.

“This new nucleus is currently the lightest known isotope of astatin, ¹⁸⁸At, containing 85 protons and 103 neutrons.”

“Studying this type of exotic nucleus is exceedingly challenging due to its brief lifespan and low production cross-section. Therefore, precise techniques are essential.”

“The nuclei were produced through fusion deposition reactions by irradiating natural silver targets with a ⁸⁴Sr ion beam,” added Dr. Kare Auranen of Zibaskira University.

“The detection of the new isotopes was made possible using the Ritu Recoil separator’s detector setup.”

In addition to the experimental findings, the physicists expanded theoretical models to interpret the collected data.

According to the team, ¹⁸⁸At can be likened to a strong explosion, resembling “the shape of a watermelon.”

“The nuclear properties suggest a shift in the behavior of the binding energy of valence protons,” Kokkonen stated.

“This is attributed to unprecedented interactions with heavy nuclei.”

“Isotopes are rare globally, and this marks the second occasion I’ve had the chance to make history.”

“All experiments pose challenges, and it is rewarding to conduct research that enhances our understanding of the fundamental limits of matter and nuclear structure.”

The authors intend to refine the current uncertainties and half-life of the attenuation energy by further theoretical exploration of charged particle-damped heavy nuclei, observing the evolution of their shapes, and examining additional decay events of ¹⁸⁸At.

“Equally intriguing is the study of the collapse of a currently unknown nuclear isotope ¹⁸⁹At, which could be a proton-emitting nucleus, an aspect we have yet to explore in future experiments,” they concluded.

Their paper was published in the journal Nature Communications.

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H. Kokkonen et al. 2025. New Proton Emitter ¹⁸⁸At signifies unprecedented interactions in heavy nuclei. Nat Commun 16, 4985; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-60259-6

Source: www.sci.news

23AndMe Fined £2.3 Million by UK Regulators Over 2023 Data Breach | Technology News

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The genetic testing firm 23AndMe has been penalized with a fine exceeding £2.3 million following a significant cyberattack in 2023, which compromised the personal information of over 150,000 UK residents.

Sensitive data, including family tree details, health reports, names, and postal codes, were among the information breached from the California-based company. The UK Intelligence Commission’s office confirmed the breach after employees discovered that stolen data was being offered for sale on the social media platform Reddit.

Intelligence Commissioner John Edwards referred to the incidents during the summer of 2023 as “a deeply damaging violation.” The data breach affecting the UK was just a fraction of a larger security incident that compromised data from 7 million individuals.

23AndMe offers DNA screening for £89 through a saliva-based kit, allowing users to trace their ancestry in terms of ethnicity and geographical origin. However, many customers sought bankruptcy protection in the US in March, requesting the removal of their DNA data from the company’s records following the hack.

The penalty coincided with a $355 million acquisition bid for the company led by former CEO Anne Wassicki.

Edwards noted that the data breaches included sensitive personal information, family histories, and even health conditions of numerous individuals in the UK.

“As one affected individual remarked, once this information is out there, it cannot be altered or replaced like a password or credit card number,” he added.

UK data protection regulators found that 23AndMe did not take fundamental steps to safeguard user information, revealing inadequacies in its security system, including a failure to implement stricter user authentication measures.

Hackers exploited a widespread weakness due to the reuse of passwords compromised in unrelated data breaches. They employed automated tools in a method called “credential stuffing.”

Edwards remarked, “The warning signs were evident, and the company’s response was sluggish. This has made individuals’ most sensitive data vulnerable to exploitation and harm.”

A company spokesperson stated that 23AndMe has taken various measures to enhance security for individual accounts and data. They have made a firm commitment to improving the protection of customer data and privacy in connection with an initiative that will benefit 23AndMe, a nonprofit associated with Wojcicki, the TTAM Research Institute.

Fines are part of the substantial penalties imposed on various organizations by ICOs in recent years due to their inability to secure data from hacking and ransomware incidents. In 2022, a fine levied against construction firms exceeded £4.4 million when staff data was compromised, including contact information, bank details, sexual orientation, and health data.

In March of this year, NHS IT supplier Advanced Computer Software Group faced a fine of nearly £3.1 million for endangering the personal information of approximately 80,000 individuals.

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Pragmata: A Unique Sci-Fi Game Making Its Comeback | Games

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

When Pragmata was unveiled five years ago, the specifics of what Resident Evil publisher Capcom was creating remained uncertain. The initial trailer presented an eerie, futuristic scene featuring an astronaut and a blonde girl, yet it offered little clarity on the game’s direction. The anticipated 2022 release slipped away, leading to a “pause indefinitely”, leaving many to wonder if Pragmata would actually launch in 2023.

Everything changed on June 4th, when a new trailer premiered during the PlayStation Showcase. The blonde girl is revealed to be a combat-ready android, teaming up with an astronaut named Hugh (naturally) amid an intense battle within a space station. The following weekend, I had the opportunity to play for about 20 minutes at the Summer Game Fest. Long, troubled development cycles are often a bad omen, yet my experience was surprisingly promising.

Pragmata opens with the astronaut Hugh Williams lying unconscious among metallic wreckage. A young girl dressed in an oversized blue jacket with long, flowing blonde hair (a peculiar choice, if I’m being honest) stumbles across Hugh while grappling with a large case nearby. After finally managing to topple it, she opens the case to reveal a device that emits the Lunafilament nanowave, which she uses to repair his suit.

Pragmata trailer

We discover that they are located on a lunar space station, where a robotic security system mistakenly identifies Hugh as an intruder, leading to a confrontation. I was not prepared for how enjoyable the combat would be.

In Pragmata, the robotic enemies all possess robust shields, rendering Hugh’s arsenal (which can be expanded by locating various firearms in the environment) largely ineffective. Fortunately, the girl, now identified as Diana, has the ability to hack these foes, making them vulnerable—all while dodging attacks as she perches on Hugh’s shoulder.

To navigate the robots’ mainframe, you’ll need to use the face buttons on the controller to disarm their shields temporarily, reaching a green tile arranged in rows and columns. This must be done quickly, and while dodging their strikes, which often resulted in failed attempts and resets, creating a genuinely thrilling (and fun) battle scenario.

Hacking in Pragmata evokes the urgency of calling in a Stratagem in Helldivers 2, requiring swift yet deliberate button presses under intense pressure. Each gunfight becomes a moment of high tension: different robot types necessitate various hacking strategies, and they scatter in confusion once compromised. During my brief session with Pragmata, I encountered an array of opponents and weaponry.

Just as someone tapped me on the shoulder to signal the end of the demo, I found myself captivated by the combat (unfortunate timing just before the Big Boss showdown). Despite the protracted development period of over five years, the gameplay feels refreshingly new.

Pragmata is set to launch on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC in 2026.

These Unusual “Bears” Have the Power to Halt Aging—Here’s What We’re Discovering

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Commonly referred to by fans as “water bears” or “moss pigs,” the tardigrade is arguably the cutest microscopic creature on Earth.

These tiny beings have even been sent to the International Space Station. Scientists have successfully launched them into the vacuum of space.

Remarkably, they survived for days without air, water, or any protection from intense solar radiation, showcasing their resilience. Researchers believe these little animals possess extraordinary survival capabilities.

In extreme situations, tardigrades enter a state known as cryptobiosis, essentially drying out and halting their metabolism.

Once conditions improve and water is reintroduced, they can rehydrate and start functioning again as if nothing ever happened.

Recent research has revealed new insights into these remarkable organisms. For instance, scientists have identified a protein called “DSUP” that shields their DNA from radiation, acting like molecular armor.

Researchers from the University of Stuttgart have provided evidence supporting the “sleeping beauty” hypothesis.

This theory posits that in their dormant state, tardigrades may not only pause their metabolism but also their biological clocks.

They survived for days without air, water, or protection from intense solar radiation. – Image credits: Scientific Photo Library via Sebastian Kauritzki/Getty Images

Interestingly, water bears that undergo freezing thrive for twice as long while awake compared to a control group that never sleeps.

In their natural habitats, tardigrades might only be active for a few months, yet they can enter a state of suspended animation and survive for decades.

A 2024 study focused on the recently discovered tardigrade, Hypsibius henanensis, which provided further insights.

The research revealed a gene responsible for producing betalain, which counteracts the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.

Additionally, they uncovered proteins that enhance DNA repair mechanisms. The next step is to determine whether these proteins offer protection across any of the 1,300 known tardigrade species.

This article answers the question posed by Madison Halladay: “Why are tardigrades so indestructible?”

Please email us to submit your questions Question @sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, Twitter or Instagram Page (don’t forget to include your name and location).

Check out our ultimate Fun facts for more amazing science content.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Cyanocoronene Discovered: Astronomers Find 7-Ring Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in TMC-1

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are believed to be the most prevalent class of organic compounds in the universe, yet their lifecycle in interstellar media remains poorly understood. Recently, astronomers using NSF’s Green Bank telescopes identified cyanocoronene (C₂₄H₁₁CN), the largest PAH discovered in space, located within the starless cloud core TMC-1.

Cyanocoronene, composed of seven interconnected benzene rings and cyano groups, is a region known for its abundant chemistry and was discovered in the cold, dark molecular cloud TMC-1, recognized as a new cradle for star formation. Image credits: NSF/AUI/NSF/NRAO/P.VOSTEEN.

Cyanocoronene is a derivative of coronene, often regarded as a prototype compact PAH due to its stability and distinctive structure.

PAHs are thought to play a crucial role in the chemistry that captures a significant portion of the universe’s carbon and contributes to star and planet formation.

Until this discovery, only smaller PAHs had been identified in space, making this finding a significant leap in understanding size limits.

“Each new detection brings us closer to understanding the origins of the complex organic chemistry in the universe, and possibly the building blocks of life,” says Dr. Gabi Wentzel, an astronomer at the Center for Astrophysics at MIT and Harvard & Smithsonian.

Dr. Wentzel and her team first synthesized cyanocoronene in the laboratory and recorded its unique microwave spectrum using advanced spectroscopic methods.

Equipped with this molecular fingerprint, the astronomers searched data from the Green Bank telescope, the primary instrument for the Gotham project (GBT observations of TMC-1: GBT observations of aromatic molecules).

They identified several spectral lines of cyanocoronene, confirming its presence with a statistical significance of 17.3 sigma, a robust detection by astronomical standards.

Cyanocoronene is currently the largest individual PAH molecule found in interstellar space, featuring 24 carbon atoms in its core structure (excluding the cyano group).

The quantity of cyanocoronene detected is comparable to that of smaller PAHs previously identified, challenging the notion that larger molecules are rare in the universe.

This indicates that even more complex aromatic molecules may be prevalent in the cosmos.

“The presence of such a large, stable PAH lends support to the idea that these molecules can serve as significant reservoirs of carbon and potentially facilitate the formation of new planetary systems throughout their lifecycle,” the researchers stated.

“The quantum chemical analysis in this study reveals that the reaction between coronene and CN radicals enables the efficient formation of cyanocoronene in cold space conditions.

“This implies that even prior to star formation, there can be chemical processes that establish complex organic matter.”

“The discovery of cyanocoronene not only adds new chapters to the narrative of astrochemistry but also reinforces the PAH hypothesis. It suggests that these molecules are responsible for the enigmatic infrared emission zones scattered throughout the universe.”

“Additionally, it establishes a direct link between interstellar clouds, meteoroids, and asteroid chemistry, implying that organic molecules present in our solar system might have originated in similar environments long before the Sun was born.”

The scientists presented their Survey results on June 11th at the AAS246, 246th Summer American Astronomical Association.

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Gabi Wenzel & Gotham Collaboration. 2025. Discovery of 7-ring PAH cyanocoronene (C₂₄H₁₁CN) from Gotham observation of TMC-1. AAS246 Summary #75

Source: www.sci.news

Astronomers Map the Distribution of Ordinary Matter Across the Universe

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers are making significant strides in comprehending how matter behaves and interacts in space utilizing fast radio bursts (FRB). They have found that over three-quarters of the universe’s ordinary material is concealed within sparse intergalactic gases, and they have also identified the furthest FRB event recorded to date.

This artist’s concept illustrates the density regions and red blank areas of the universe’s web in blue. Image Credit: Jack Madden/Illustristng/Ralf Konietzka/Liam Connor, CFA.

For many years, it has been established that at least half of the normal, predominantly proton-based baryonic material in the universe has gone unaccounted for.

Previous approaches by astronomers employed methods like X-ray and ultraviolet observations to gather significant clues regarding this missing mass, which manifests as extremely thin warm gases between galaxies.

The challenge arises from the high-temperature, low-density gas that remains mostly invisible to most telescopes, leaving scientists unable to assess its presence or distribution.

This is where FRBs come into play – brief, intense radio signals emitted by distant galaxies that researchers have recently demonstrated could measure baryonic matter in space, although its location remained a mystery until now.

In the latest study, scientists examined 60 FRBs, with the most distant FRB recorded at 1,174 million light-years (FRB 20200120E) from Messier 81 and reaching up to 9.1 billion light-years (FRB 20230521b).

This enabled them to pinpoint the missing material within intergalactic spaces or the intergalactic medium (IGM).

“The ‘baryon problem’ was never in doubt,” stated Dr. Liam Connor, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. “The issue has always been about its location. Now with FRBs, we’ve established that three-quarters of it exists between galaxies in the cosmic web.”

By analyzing the delays in each FRB signal as it traveled through space, Dr. Connor and his colleagues tracked the gaseous medium along its path.

“FRBs function like flashlights in space, illuminating the intergalactic medium. By accurately gauging how the light slows down, we can assess this medium, whether it’s starkly visible or barely detectable,” Dr. Connor explains.

The findings are revealing—approximately 76% of the universe’s baryonic matter resides within the IGM.

Additionally, about 15% is found in galaxy halos, with a minor fraction embedded within stars and cool galactic gases.

This distribution aligns with predictions made by advanced cosmological simulations, yet this is the first instance of direct confirmation.

“This marks a triumph for contemporary astronomy,” noted Dr. Vikram Ravi, an astronomer from California.

“Thanks to FRBs, we are now approaching a new understanding of the universe’s structure and composition.”

“These brief flashes enable us to trace the invisible baryonic matter filling the expansive voids between galaxies,” he added.

“Baryons are pulled into galaxies by gravity; however, supermassive black holes and supernova explosions can expel them back into the IGM, cooling cosmic temperatures when they spiral out of control,” commented Dr. Connor.

“Our findings indicate that this feedback mechanism is effective, suggesting gas must be displaced from galaxies into the IGM.”

The team’s results are published today in the journal Nature Astronomy.

____

L. Connor et al. Gas-rich cosmic web unveiled by the partition of missing baryons. Nature Astronomy Published online on June 16th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02566-y

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Discover Early Jurassic Ikchosaurus Fossils in British Columbia

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The partial skeleton discovered in the Fernie Formation in British Columbia, Canada, in 1916, represents a new genus and species of an extinct marine reptile named Ichaosaurus, as stated by an international group of paleontologists.

Photos and interpretation of Fernatator Prentisai skeleton in side view on the left. Image credit: Massare et al.

Fernatator Prentisai existed in North America during the early Jurassic Epoch, approximately 109 million years ago.

“Ichthyosaurs—marine reptiles that superficially resemble dolphins—were prominent marine predators from the early Triassic (Olenek) to the beginning of the late Cretaceous (Cenomanian),” noted Professor Judy Massare from SUNY College.

“They were the dominant large predators of the Triassic and early Jurassic seas.”

“Many partial and complete skeletal remains of early Jurassic ichthyosaurs have been collected, primarily from England and Germany.”

“The early Jurassic Ektisaurus in North America is considered rare,” they emphasized.

“Hence, the discovery of partial skeletal remains from western Canada is significant.”

Excavation of Fernatator Prentisai skeleton. The podium is incomplete, but the additional parts that were lost have since been preserved. T. Prentice At Light, WR Wilson, the general manager of CNP Coal Company, is on the left. Photo taken around 1916, between the Elk River, Morrissey, and Fernie, British Columbia. Photographer unknown. Image credit: Massare et al.

The skeleton of Fernatator Prentisai was found by T. Prentiss in the summer of 1916 while fishing on the Elk River in British Columbia, Canada.

“This specimen represents the most complete ichthyosaur known from the early Jurassic in North America and is one among several ichthyosaur specimens known from the Fernie Formation in western Canada,” the paleontologist remarked.

This new species is a medium-sized ichthyosaur, measuring 3-4 m (10-13 feet) in length, with a distinct combination of features.

“As preserved, the entire skeleton measures 2.8 m long, which includes an impression of the front of the podium,” the researcher added.

“In life, this skeleton likely reached approximately 3.5 m in length, possibly even 4 m.”

“Despite the poor preservation, there is enough identifiable morphology to justify the designation of a new genus and species,” they noted.

“It is characterized by a tall, bar-like orbital, short straight jugals that do not extend beyond the anterior or posterior of the orbit, a long, narrow anterior process of the maxilla, and a cora-like body with a broad curved outer end and a deep anterior region, among other features.”

Fernatator Prentisai symbolizes a sparse record of early Jurassic ichthyosaurs, validated from the Early Jurassic in Canada, and is a significant addition to ichthyosaur taxonomy.

A paper detailing this discovery has been published in the June 2025 issue of the journal Paldicola.

____

Judy A. Massare et al. 2025. The most complete early Jurassic ichthyosaur from North America. Paldicola 15(2): 86-99

Source: www.sci.news

Nature Unveils the “Black Box” of Science by Releasing Peer Review Files

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nature of science journals aims to highlight the complexities of academic publishing.

In an editorial released on Monday, the journal revealed it will include a peer review file with the papers it plans to publish. This will grant reviewers insight into the behind-the-scenes process where authors respond to revisions.

Publishing peer review files has been an option in Nature since 2020, but as of Monday, it has become a standard practice.

“Our goal is to demystify what many refer to as the ‘black box’ of science and clarify how research papers are developed. This aims to enhance transparency and foster trust in the scientific process. We believe that publishing peer reviewer reports enriches scientific communication and contextualizes how results and conclusions are reached.”

Opening the peer review process is becoming increasingly common among scientific journals, but Nature stands out as one of the largest and most influential in adopting this practice.

Peer review occurs once scientific research is submitted to a reputable journal, where field experts evaluate the work for issues such as flawed inferences, poor research practices, and data errors. These external experts provide feedback to journal editors and authors, known as the Judge Report.

“Peer review enhances the quality of the paper,” the editorial states. “The dialogue between authors and reviewers should be regarded as a significant component of the scientific record, crucial to research andits dissemination.”

Nature’s updated process automatically publishes judge reports and author responses. Journal practices evolve particularly when public trust in science wanes; a Pew Research Center poll indicates that trust in scientists fell approximately 10 percentage points from 2019 to 2024, with only 45% of Americans considering scientists to be effective communicators.

Michael Eisen, a former editor of the scientific journal Elife and a proponent of reforming the scientific publishing process, believes Nature’s decision marks a significant step towards greater transparency in the field.

“It’s valuable for the public to witness the process,” Eisen stated. “Much of the criticism stems from misunderstanding, which often arises from a lack of transparency surrounding scientific processes.”

Eisen suggests this move could help skeptics recognize the rigorous scrutiny applied to critical topics.

“For instance, if people observe the thorough examination vaccine-related studies undergo, it can help them better understand and assess the context of scientific findings,” Eisen noted.

At the same time, this transparency may help to mitigate the sensationalism often associated with striking findings.

“It may help dispel the notion that once a paper is published, it is infallible and that all questions have been resolved,” Eisen added.

He also mentioned that Nature could publish reviewer comments on manuscripts that were ultimately rejected.

“The truly transformative step would be to disclose reviews for all submitted papers,” Eisen remarked. “While it’s insightful to understand the questions raised in reviews of accepted papers, it is equally important to see why certain papers were rejected by the journal.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Milky Way Black Holes Could Be Rotating at Their Limit

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Image of Sagittarius A*, the black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy

EHT

SEI 255742397 — Image of Sagittarius A*, the black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy

EHT

At the core of our Galaxy lies an extraordinary rotating entity: a black hole that appears to be spinning near its maximum velocity.

Michael Jansen from Radboud University in the Netherlands and his team investigated black holes in the center of the Milky Way, specifically Sagittarius A*, utilizing data gathered by a collective network known as the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT). To tackle the intricacies of the data, they opted for artificial intelligence methods.

Initially, they simulated approximately one million black holes using established mathematical models, a computational endeavor that necessitated millions of hours on supercomputers. These simulations served as training data for a type of AI known as neural networks, enabling them to assess the properties of black holes based on empirical observations. Subsequently, they fed the AI with data on Sagittarius A* collected by the EHT throughout 2017.

The AI determined that Sagittarius A* is rotating at 80-90% of its theoretical maximum speed. It also indicated to the researchers that none of the currently available magnetic field models adequately describe the characteristics of this black hole, highlighting the need for additional mathematical modeling. Janssen notes that earlier studies had merely narrowed down the potential characteristics of Sagittarius A*, such as its rotation speed and surrounding magnetic fields, while this new methodology has refined those estimates.

Dimitrios Psaltis from Georgia Tech in Atlanta remarked that some of the findings were unexpectedly counterintuitive. Previous analyses had not clarified whether black hole spins could be accurately discerned from EHT data.

While earlier research suggested that Sagittarius A* might be spinning at significant speeds,
Mizuno Yuishi from Zhejiang University in Shanghai, China, noted that there is still room for enhancement in the computational models applied in this new analysis. “Our theoretical model is still not perfect,” he acknowledged.

However, both Mizuno and Psaltis agree that integrating AI into the study of exotic cosmic entities like black holes is increasingly essential. “We possess a wealth of data and numerous models, and we require a contemporary approach to merge the two,” Psaltis states. “This is precisely where machine learning proves to be transformative.”

Yet, this integration presents unique challenges, as AI work necessitates verification to mitigate potential inaccuracies and errors in subsequent analysis.

Janssen and his team have conducted numerous verification checks, including testing the AI with specially designed simulation data. They are also evaluating data from subsequent EHT operations and will be analyzing new findings from observatory results, he explains.

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Prospectors Explore Hydrogen Resources along the US Continental Divide

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist Explores Hydrogen Wells in Kansas

Hyterra/Adler Gray

Excavation rigs often stir curiosity in fields dotted with grazing cattle. Although we are in Kansas, these rigs proudly display both American and Australian flags, indicating the origins of their owner. Hyterra, an Australian company, has been exploring for natural hydrogen fuels lurking in deep fractures of North America.

“I believe behind us is the kitchen where hydrogen is produced,” said Avon McIntyre, the company’s executive director. The surge in activity has drawn numerous businesses to the Midwest, positioning eastern Kansas as a pivotal area in the global quest for “geological hydrogen.”

This tale began about 1.3 billion years ago when the continent that is now North America began to fragment into two parts. While the continent eventually stopped separating, the fracture left a 2,000-kilometer-long mark of iron-rich mantle rock. Presently, this cleft lies buried beneath farms and ranches in the Midwest.

In eastern Kansas, older oil and gas wells have recorded high concentrations of hydrogen as solid rocks surrounding these fractures are pushed near the surface. To explore potential harvesting, several companies have secured hydrogen drilling rights over more than 100,000 hectares in the region, according to McIntyre’s analysis of public court documents. Hyterra and its competitor Koloma are advancing their efforts by drilling deeper into the earth.

“It’s like a gold rush, with everyone eager to find it,” stated Kristen Delano from the Colorado-based company Coloma. While she refrained from disclosing their drilling locations in Kansas, she noted that public opinion has indicated their recent excavations. Additional companies, such as the Australian firm Top End Energy, are acquiring mineral rights based solely on where Koloma is active.

“There has been considerable discussion within the community,” remarked Shawn McIntyre, who has no relation to Hyterra’s executive director. As a rancher from Waterville, Kansas, he has leased thousands of acres for hydrogen drilling. “This could revitalize the industry in small towns that have suffered economically in this region.”

The global pursuit of underground hydrogen escalated following updated assessments of global reserves several years ago. Companies investigating gas deposits are hopeful that it could become an alternative to the fossil fuels currently dominating heavy industry, fertilizer production, and electricity generation. “Natural hydrogen fits seamlessly into that narrative,” stated Jay Calbus from the Kansas Geological Survey. “If we are sitting atop a substantial supply of hydrogen that can be harnessed… it could transform not only the state but also the wider region, and the nation.”

As Avon McIntyre and I traverse the muddy terrain to the drilling platform southwest of Manhattan, Kansas, he shouts above the din of the rig, “It’s crucial to understand what’s happening down there.”

The company hypothesizes that water from the underground aquifer interacts with iron-rich mantle rocks within the Middle Continent fractures, resulting in the production of hydrogen through a process known as meandering. This reaction generates hydrogen molecules in the water, which subsequently migrate to the surrounding rocks.

This year, plans include drilling five exploratory wells aimed at identifying hydrogen concentrations along subsurface rises in bedrock known as Nemahalridge. Earlier reports revealed that the first well, drilled at a prominent location on this ridge, recorded hydrogen concentrations of 96%.

Currently, the second well is deepening, surpassing 1600 meters and operating continuously. At the rig, workers sift through the mud, which contains granite scraps from the excavated hole, extracting gas from the liquid for analysis.

In the Mud Shack, a makeshift office at the site’s periphery, a team of contractors monitors and reports in real-time the gas composition from varying depths of the well. While gas levels remained low in solid rock, hydrogen concentrations began measuring over 800 parts per million.

“[The first well] had an impressive peak, but this one is continuously producing hydrogen,” noted Hyterra’s Josh Whitcom.

While these measurements alone carry limited meaning, more precise evaluations require gas samples sent from the site. Moreover, high hydrogen concentrations do not indicate how much gas can actually be extracted or the duration of flow.

Even if hydrogen ultimately flows from any of these wells, numerous questions remain, such as how it will be isolated from other gases, transported, stored, and who will be its consumers.

However, McIntyre is thrilled by the detection of hydrogen and encourages the crew to work through the night. “Our goal is to gather information,” he stated. “And now we have some.”

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Judges Evaluate Legality of Trump Administration Cuts at the National Institutes of Health

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Monday, a federal judge in Boston ruled that the termination of grants from the National Institutes of Health signals the end of efforts aimed at diversity-related research topics. Trump’s administration has claimed this decision was “invalid and illegal,” citing discrimination against racial minorities and the LGBTQ community.

US District Judge William Young stated in a non-judicial trial that the NIH breached federal law by capriciously canceling over $1 billion in research grants linked to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Judge Young indicated he is reinstating grants awarded to organizations that advocated for such initiatives in democratically led states. He also mentioned that as the case unfolds, more significant decisions might follow.

“This amounts to racism and discrimination against the American LGBTQ community,” remarked Young, a Republican appointee of President Ronald Reagan. “Government discrimination is profoundly wrong; I urge the court to prohibit it, and I will take action in due course.”

Discussing the end of grants for research addressing racial minority issues, Young expressed from the bench that he has “never witnessed such blatant racism” in his 40 years on the bench.

“You judge people of color based on their skin,” he stated concerning the Trump administration. “The Constitution does not permit that.”

The Department of Health and Human Services, representing the NIH and its parent organization, has not responded promptly to requests for statements.

Rachel Meelopol from the American Civil Liberties Union, who represents the grant recipients in the lawsuit, mentioned that Young’s ruling impacts hundreds of grants. The plaintiffs include the American Public Health Association and 16 states led by Massachusetts.

The NIH, the world’s premier funder of biomedical and behavioral research, has terminated approximately 2,100 research grants worth about $9.5 billion and an additional $2.6 billion in contracts since President Donald Trump took office in January. I signed on to protest the cuts last week.

These funding cuts reflect Trump’s broader agenda to reshape the government, reduce federal expenditures, and eliminate support for DEI programs and transgender healthcare. Another federal judge has temporarily blocked the administration’s plan to reduce 10,000 jobs across the NIH and other health agencies.

Trump has also enacted a series of executive orders mandating that institutions ensure grant funding does not support “gender ideology” and puts an end to what the administration deems “discriminatory” DEI programs. Conservative critics argue that these DEI initiatives unfairly target white individuals and others.

Aligned with Trump’s policy objectives, the NIH has directed staff to cease grant funding for research on DEI programs, issues facing transgender individuals, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, and funding beneficial to universities in China.

The trial presided over by Young on Monday focused on just a portion of the claims in the consolidated litigation regarding the funding cuts. He intends to consider additional claims later.

Young indicated he would allow political parties to present further evidence before making decisions regarding these claims and determine whether to restore grants beyond those allocated to the plaintiffs.

The cessation of NIH grants, coupled with delays in grant approvals and renewals, has reverberated across universities nationwide, many of which now face the loss of significant portions of their research budgets.

As a result, universities have initiated employment freezes, travel restrictions, reduced class sizes, furloughs, and layoffs.

Numerous universities depend on NIH grants for the majority of their research funding. For instance, Washington University, recognized as the top public institution for biomedical research, reported receiving roughly 1,220 grants from the NIH, totaling about $648 million last year, as per court documents.

Students and faculty at universities have expressed concerns that the funding confusion could lead to brain drain from the United States, as researchers increasingly seek positions abroad. This slowdown also threatens long-term research initiatives, including projects focused on banking and studying the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The Trump administration has aimed to reduce other critical research funding sources.

In February, US District Judge Angel Kelly halted regulations that severely restricted government payments for indirect research costs, including equipment, maintenance, utilities, and support staffing. The administration projected that this action would eliminate $4 billion in funding for research institutions.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Ministry Time Review: An Amazing Time Travel Novel Blending Thriller and Romance

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

John Franklin’s Fateful Ship Erebus: A 19th Century Painting, Confined to Ice

Pictorial Press Ltd/Alamy

Time Saving
Kaliane Bradley (scepter (UK); A Dedicated Leader Press (US)

Reading various novels for work can sometimes be challenging, especially when you want to find something captivating. However, Time Saving by Kaliane Bradley instantly drew me in with its engaging prologue. It was a brief glimpse into the life of a man sprinting through the snow, hearing his ship signal him. This offered plenty of intrigue for what was to come.

This month’s selection for the New Scientist Book Club has been a resounding success since its release last year. The narrative follows a young civil servant who unexpectedly applies for a mysterious position involving time travel, a concept kept under wraps, allowing individuals from the past to journey to the present.

These “visitors” require support, which is where our unnamed heroine comes in as a caretaker, dubbed a “bridge.” She is assigned to Commander Graham Gore, living with him and assisting him in adjusting to modern life.

New Scientist Book Club

Do you enjoy reading? Join a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we delve into exciting new titles, providing members with free access to excerpts from the book, author articles, and video interviews.

This is not solely a narrative about time travel; it meticulously explores whether the government would permit time travelers to integrate into society alongside civil servants. The novel confidently posits that, for this reader, it could have crafted Sally without delving into excessive particulars.

One of the intriguing aspects of the story is that Gore is rooted in reality, having been a genuine figure that many remain unaware of. He was the first officer of John Franklin’s ill-fated expedition to the Arctic and met his demise around 1847 or 1848. While the specifics of his final hours remain uncertain, the novel takes a creative approach by transporting him to contemporary London just before his death.

Modern London is full of men from the lost world. But Gore is a resilient and capable officer.

Bradley’s depiction of Gore exemplifies the art of storytelling. She brings him to life with such precision that he appears as a tangible, charismatic individual—rarely do we encounter characters so vividly portrayed in literature.

The vibrant interaction between our young bureaucrat and this spirited officer of the Colonial Royal Navy unfolds within the context of a future version of London, where many individuals from the past now inhabit. Once again, Gore’s resilience shines, highlighting that he is adaptable, making for the most enjoyable segments of the narrative where they learn from one another.

The plot transitions from romance to thriller, composing about 40% sci-fi, 40% romantic comedy, and 20% thriller. I found the initial segment significantly more engaging, though I questioned whether the thriller conclusion would hold up. However, this does not overshadow the fact that the book offers a delightful reading experience, perfect for those looking for fun.

At the conclusion of the novel, Bradley includes a photograph of Gore. Having grown fond of his fictional counterpart, it was a poignant moment to connect with the real historical figure. According to Bradley’s PostScript, he was regarded as “a remarkably fine officer with a kind temperament.”

This beloved, memorable officer represents a captivating twist in history that deserves a place in a bestselling novel nearly two centuries later. Bradley has undoubtedly fashioned a most endearing hero.

New Scientist Book Club
Time Saving is our latest selection. Sign up here: NewsCientist.com/bookclub

I recommend Emily as well…

The Persian Boy
Maryle Noh (Virago Modern Classics)

While this is not science fiction, it resurrects another historical character—Alexander the Great—through the perspective of Bagoa, a young Persian boy in bondage. For me, this book, along with its precursor, provides all I need to know about Alexander.

Emily H. Wilson is the former editor of New Scientist and the author of the Sumerian trilogy set in ancient Mesopotamia. The series’ final installment, Ninshuval, will be released in August. Connect with her at emilyhwilson.com or follow her on X @emilyhwilson and Instagram @emilyhwilson1

The Arts and Science of Writing Science Fiction

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Using Psychology to Boost Your Confidence in a Swimsuit

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Are these vacationers experiencing “seasonal body image dissatisfaction”?

Shutterstock/Puyalroyo

Bird's-eye perspective of a bustling beach, Praia de Nazaré, Europe, Portugal. ShutterStock ID 2189816843; Order Form: -; Job: -; Client: -; Other: - — Are these vacationers experiencing “seasonal body image dissatisfaction”?

Shutterstock/Puyalroyo

While winter still lingers in the Northern Hemisphere, we’re nearing the summer solstice. The sun overhead signifies one thing: a surge of lifestyle articles and social media posts encouraging you to “get your beach body ready.”

A friend of mine recently shared his anxiety about summer for this exact reason. “I’ve even stopped trying to get a six-pack,” he confessed. “But I feel really self-conscious without my shirt on.”

This conversation piqued my curiosity about whether this sentiment is widespread. I soon discovered several recent studies addressing “Seasonal Body Image Dissatisfaction,” along with strategies to combat it.

Scott Griffith and his team at the University of Melbourne conducted a groundbreaking study involving 823 gay and bisexual men globally. They found that over 70% reported significant physical dissatisfaction during summer, more so than in any other season, attributing it to societal pressures from the media and the increased exposure of their bodies.

These findings align with a recent analysis of 12 million social media posts from 2020 to 2023, revealing that expressions of self-loathing peaked in July, with similar trends noted for December in both hemispheres.

If any of this resonates with you, it may be beneficial to explore research on mindful self-compassion. This concept emphasizes three core aspects: recognizing that one’s struggles are universal, developing a mindful awareness of our experiences, and refraining from getting lost in negative thoughts and emotions.

Personally, I would love to see a rise in “body-neutral movements” on social media. Unlike “body-positive exercise,” which aims to celebrate our flaws, body neutrality prioritizes bodily function over appearance.

Forthcoming research by Raeanna Kilby and Kristin Mickelson of Arizona State University suggests that body neutrality may more effectively decrease self-objectification compared to body positivity. Jameela Jamil advocates for this perspective, stating, “My body is not an advertising board for others. It’s not something for them to judge, nor for me to judge… I focus on enjoying life to the fullest.”

This summer, my goals are centered on health, happiness, and friendships—the true #gains.

David Robson is an award-winning science writer and author of “The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies that Change Your Life.”

For more initiatives, visit newscientist.com/maker

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Proba-3: Stunning Image Captures the First Artificial Solar Eclipse

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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The sun’s corona appears as it would to the human eye during a solar eclipse, but through a green filter.

ESA/proba-3/aspiics

The synchronized movement of the twin satellites has produced the first artificial solar eclipse in space, revealing the burnt corona of the sun in remarkable detail.

The ProBA-3 mission, launched last December, is operated by the European Space Agency (ESA) and consists of two satellites positioned 150 meters apart.

One of the satellites, known as Occulter, features 1.4-meter wide discs made from carbon fiber and plastic, effectively blocking sunlight coming from the second satellite, Coronagraph. The alignment accuracy of the satellites is within one millimeter for capturing images.

In March, the satellites autonomously synchronized for extended periods, providing lengthy exposures of the solar eclipse. ESA scientists can stitch these exposures together to generate a comprehensive image of the solar corona, the outermost layer of the sun’s atmosphere.

“When I first viewed these images, it was unbelievable,” says Damien Galano from ESA. “But shortly after, it transformed into an incredible sense of achievement and pride for all our hard work.”

The image above captures the visible light of the corona, resembling how it would appear to the human eye but through a green filter.

This image illustrates the light emitted from electron-depleted iron in the most heated sections of the corona.

ESA/proba-3/aspiics

The Proba-3 satellite camera also captures light frequencies linked to specific elements within the solar corona, exemplified by the dark green image above.

“We can clearly see the substantial achievements made during COVID,” remarks Galano.

The sun’s corona shown in polarized white light, artificially tinted to look violet.

ESA/proba-3/aspiics

The image above illustrates the sun’s corona, artificially colored purple in polarized white light. This technique allows scientists to distinguish the polarized light from the hot corona from that scattered by interplanetary dust.

These images were primarily captured to verify the ProBA-3 mission’s functionality. When fully operational, they will take pictures of the artificial food every 19.6 hours.

This will enhance our comprehension of solar corona physics, and according to Galano, it will also improve understanding of solar winds and coronal mass ejections that influence space weather.

Total Solar Eclipse 2026: Travel from Iceland to Greenland

Join an incredible journey in August 2026 and experience an awe-inspiring total solar eclipse.

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23andMe Founders Seek to Reclaim Control of Bankrupt DNA Testing Company

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The previous CEO of 23andMe is poised to reclaim leadership of the genetic testing firm after placing a $305 million bid from the nonprofit organization.

Recently, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals announced a deal to purchase the company for $256 million, surpassing a $146 million offer from Anne Wojcicki and the nonprofit TTAM Research Institute. A former executive noted that this substantial offer prompted Wojcicki to elevate her bid with backing from the Fortune 500 entity. The deal is anticipated to finalize in the upcoming weeks, pending a court hearing scheduled for June 17, as stated by the company on Friday.

Wojcicki had made several attempts while CEO to retain the company as private. Each attempt was met with rejection from the board, and ultimately all independent directors resigned in response to her acquisition efforts.

As a leader in ancestral DNA testing, 23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March and aimed to auction its business following a 2023 data breach that compromised sensitive genetic and personal information of millions of users.

Since its bankruptcy announcement, 23andMe has seen a significant loss of clients, with a concerning trend of users wanting their accounts closed. The company, which analyzes complete genomes with unknown parties showing interest, reported that approximately 15% of its current customers are requesting account terminations in light of the bankruptcy and potential sale. Experts recommend that customers ask firms to delete their DNA data to safeguard privacy. On Friday, TTAM endorsed 23andMe’s existing privacy policy, asserting compliance with all relevant data protection regulations. Earlier this week, New York and over 20 other U.S. states filed a lawsuit against 23andMe to contest the sale of personal data from its clients.

Regeneron expressed enthusiasm for the new bid, but acknowledged that if Wojcicki’s offer were ultimately accepted, it would incur a $10 million termination fee.

A Fruit and Vegetable-Rich Diet May Enhance Sleep Quality

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago School of Medicine and Columbia University revealed that increasing fruit and vegetable intake to five cups daily, as recommended by dietary guidelines, is linked to a 16% enhancement in sleep quality.

Borge et al. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake during the day was found to be associated with improved sleep that same night. Image credit: Guillermo Gavilla.

Observational studies have shown that diets of high quality correlate with better sleep quality.

Despite this, a deeper comprehension of this relationship is essential, as dietary changes could represent novel and natural methods for enhancing sleep.

“We have been striving to maximize our lives,” stated Dr. Esla Tasari, director of the Sleep Center at the University of Chicago.

“The temporal associations and objectively measured outcomes from this study are significant in addressing gaps in crucial public health knowledge.”

Earlier observational research indicated that higher consumption of fruits and vegetables was connected to improved self-reported overall sleep quality, but this latest study is the first to establish a temporal link between specific daily food choices and objectively measured sleep quality.

Healthy young adults in this study recorded their daily food intake through an app and wore wrist monitors to allow researchers to obtain objective measurements of their sleep patterns.

The researchers focused on sleep fragmentation, which indicates the frequency of awakenings during sleep or transitions into deep sleep throughout the night.

They discovered that meal choices had significant correlations with differences in sleep quality the following night.

Participants consuming more fruits and vegetables during the day experienced deeper, more uninterrupted sleep that night, similar to those who included healthy carbohydrates like whole grains.

Based on their findings and statistical modeling, scientists estimate that those who adhere to the CDC’s recommendation of five cups of fruits and vegetables per day could see a 16% improvement in sleep quality compared to those who do not consume these foods.

“A 16% difference is substantial,” said Dr. Tasari.

“It’s remarkable that such significant changes can be detected within just 24 hours.”

Future studies will aim to establish causal relationships, expand the findings to diverse populations, and explore the underlying mechanisms of digestion, neurology, and metabolism that may clarify the positive effects of fruits and vegetables on sleep quality.

Nevertheless, based on current evidence, the authors strongly recommend maintaining a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables for optimal long-term sleep health.

“They are making a difference,” remarked Dr. Marie Pierre St. Onge, director of the Center for Sleep and Circadian Research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

“Minor adjustments can impact your sleep. It’s empowering to know better rest is within your control.”

The study was published in the journal Sleep Health this month.

____

Header L. Boge et al. We anticipate that increased daytime intake of fruits and vegetables will lead to less disrupted nighttime sleep in younger adults. Sleep Health Published online on June 11th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.sleh.2025.05.003

Source: www.sci.news

Manufacturers of Air Flyers and Smart Speakers Urged to Uphold User Privacy Rights

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The UK’s Intelligence Commission (ICO) has urged manufacturers of air fryers, smart speakers, fertility trackers, and smart TVs to prioritize the privacy rights of individuals.

Many individuals feel overwhelmed by the lack of control over how data is gathered, utilized, and shared regarding their homes and personal lives.

Following concerns raised about an air fryer that reportedly listens to its environment, Public concerns have emerged about digital devices collecting an excessive amount of personal data, prompting data protection regulators to issue initial guidelines on the handling of personal information.

Manufacturers and data handlers are now required to ensure data security, maintain transparency with consumers, and routinely delete collected information.

“We are pleased to share our commitment to offering a diverse range of services to our clients,” stated Stephen Almond, executive director of ICO’s regulatory risks.

“These products are meant to enhance our lives, but that doesn’t imply they should collect unnecessary data… Users shouldn’t have to sacrifice their privacy to enjoy the advantages of smart devices.”

“Everyone expects a degree of privacy within their own homes, thus we need to trust that smart products will honor that privacy, act responsibly, and utilize information only as anticipated.”

The new guidance points out various devices classified as part of the “Internet of Things,” which collect data that must be managed with care. These items include smart fertility trackers that log user periods and temperature readings, transmitting that data back to manufacturer servers to determine fertile days.

Smart speakers should not only listen to their owners but also to other family members and visitors; they must be designed to empower users to adjust settings to minimize personal data collection.

Regulators emphasized that manufacturers must be clear with individuals regarding the use of their personal data, only collecting what is necessary, and enabling easy deletion of data from devices.

The ICO has stated to manufacturers that it is “prepared to take necessary actions to safeguard individuals from potential harm.”

Hubble Space Telescope Reveals New Images of NGC 4449

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have captured remarkable new images of the Dwarf Starburst Galaxy NGC 4449.

This Hubble image illustrates NGC 4449, a galaxy of dwarf stars located roughly 12.5 million light years away within the Canes constellation. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/E. Sabbi/D. Calzetti/A. Aloisi.

NGC 4449 is situated about 12.5 million light years away in the constellation of Canes.

Also known as Caldwell 21, Leda 40973, or UGC 7592, this galaxy is approximately 20,000 light-years in age.

NGC 4449 was first identified by German-born British astronomer William Herschel on April 27, 1788.

This galaxy is part of the M94 Galaxy group and is in close proximity to the local group that contains our Milky Way.

“NGC 4449 is a dwarf galaxy, meaning it is significantly smaller than our Milky Way and contains fewer stars,” a Hubble astronomer remarked.

“However, its small size is deceptive; NGC 4449 is prolific in star formation.”

“This galaxy is referred to as a Starburst galaxy because it produces new stars at a rate much higher than would be expected for its size.”

“While most Starburst Galaxies primarily produce stars in their centers, NGC 4449 is scattered with bright young stars throughout its structure.”

Astronomers believe this global surge in star formation has resulted from interactions between NGC 4449 and its neighboring galaxies.

“Due to its proximity, NGC 4449 offers a valuable opportunity for Hubble to investigate how intergalactic interactions influence new star formation,” they noted.

The new color image of NGC 4449 is derived from Hubble observations utilizing the Advanced Cameras for Surveys (ACS) and the Widefield Camera 3 (WFC3) across the UV, near-infrared, and optical segments of the spectrum.

Seven filters were employed to capture various wavelengths, assigning different hues to each monochrome image linked to the specific filters.

“The Hubble images of NGC 4449 were previously released in 2007,” the researchers stated.

“This updated version includes several additional wavelengths of light gathered by Hubble through multiple observational programs.”

“These programs encompass groundbreaking science, ranging from exploring the history of star formation in NGC 4449 to mapping galaxies with the brightest, hottest, and most extensive stellar structures.”

Source: www.sci.news

Microorganisms Emitting Methane Stabilize the Seabed

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Methane penetration refers to a submersible area around the globe where the natural gas you rely on for cooking and heating is known as methane that leaks from the seabed. These penetrations are commonly found in transitional regions where land meets the ocean, known as the continental margin. Methane originates from and is produced by organic matter, including dead plants and animals, that have been buried under layers of sediment for millions of years. Through pressure and heat from within the Earth, this organic matter can decompose into methane, which escapes from the seabed into the ocean.

This methane also serves as an energy source for various microscopic organisms, allowing it to fuel your stove. The microorganisms known as methanogenic bacteria or methanotrophs utilize methane as food through a process referred to as aerobic methane oxidation. These bacteria employ oxygen to extract energy from methane gas, akin to how humans extract energy from food, producing carbon dioxide and water as by-products.

When carbon dioxide interacts with water, it creates a weak acid known as carbonic acid. Carboxylic acids can dissolve calcium carbonate minerals that make up shells in organisms like corals, mussels, and clams. While methanotrophs produce carbon dioxide as waste, scientists remain uncertain about its role in corroding calcium carbonate in marine environments. Research has been conducted in laboratories, but not in natural marine settings until now.

A team of researchers from Germany investigated the corrosion of calcium carbonate associated with active methane along the continental margin off the west coast of Gabon, Congo, and Angola in Africa. They deployed limestone cubes measuring 10 cm (around 4 inches) high and 4 cm (approximately 4 inches) wide above the seabed near active methane sites, as well as on a mussel bed. The cubes were left on the seabed for 2.5 years before being retrieved.

Upon recovery, the researchers noted that cubes situated near the methane leak exhibited rough surfaces. Microscopic examination revealed small holes, termed microborings, likely created by microorganisms. In contrast, cubes placed farther from the methane leak showed no signs of such features. This led researchers to interpret these differences as evidence that microorganisms are responsible for the dissolution of limestone in areas of methane penetration.

To further analyze the role of methanotrophs in limestone dissolution, the team extracted DNA from microbial communities inhabiting the limestone cubes. They identified DNA from members of aerobic methane-oxidizing bacteria, particularly from the uncultured HYD24-01 clade. Previous studies have detected these microorganisms in other methane-rich locations, suggesting their potential for corroding limestone.

To corroborate their findings, the researchers also examined lipid molecules known as lipid biomarkers from microorganisms at the site. Scientists utilize lipid biomarkers to identify bacterial species and their energy sources. They discovered that the lipid biomarkers collected from the seabed sites matched the DNA results. Notably, they found an abundance of lipids from methanotrophs called NC16:1Ω7 among the limestone cubes. This led them to conclude that methanotrophs prominently represented the microbial communities linked to the microborings in the limestone.

The research team proposed that their findings provide concrete evidence that methane-consuming bacteria dissolve calcium carbonate rocks in areas of marine methane. They suggested that these bacteria acidify their environment by releasing carbon dioxide during methane oxidation. The released carbon dioxide combines with water to form carbonic acid, which decreases pH levels, dissolves limestone, and contributes to ocean acidification. They advocated for future research to delve into the specific mechanisms that these microorganisms utilize and to quantify the extent of microbial erosion’s contribution to marine acidification.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Liverpool Emerges as the UK’s Crypto Capital, Survey Reveals

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The city’s renowned musicians may have claimed that love can’t be bought with money, but that was before Bitcoin came onto the scene.

Recently, Liverpool has been recognized as the UK’s cryptocurrency capital, based on a study evaluating online behaviors among citizens nationwide.

A survey by telecommunications provider OpenReach revealed that 13% of participants from Liverpool regularly invest in cryptocurrency and stocks, more frequently than any other region in the UK.

Several cities across the UK have emerged as hotspots for various activities. London is identified as the UK’s online dating hub, with 24% of respondents stating they have engaged with dating apps for at least three days.

In contrast, only 4% of the national respondents indicated that they spend time on dating applications according to this survey.

The survey suggests that the average British citizen dedicates 3.5 hours a day to the internet, but 20% confessed to spending more than five hours daily online.

Although online activity varies, 64% of participants reported being active from 11 PM to 6 AM, with 19% saying it’s time to visit YouTube.

In the North, the analysis highlights the digital habits of three cities. Manchester residents utilize Instagram more than anywhere else, with 27% of the population engaging with the platform regularly.

Meanwhile, Sheffield stands out as the leading city for both TikTok engagement and music streaming, with 32% and 30% of its residents participating, respectively. It also ranks as the city where households spend the most time online, with 32% admitting to exceeding five hours each day on the internet.

In Leeds, residents seem to favor the older social media platforms, with 43% spending a significant portion of their time on Facebook.

This research was commissioned by OpenReach to mark the anniversary of the first broadband installation in a British home, which took place in Basildon, Essex, in April 2000.

The findings revealed that many participants expressed dissatisfaction with their internet usage; 43% reported wasting time online, 37% were concerned about “doom scrolling,” and 33% stated they felt more relaxed when they reduced their online activity.

Katie Milligan, Associate CEO of OpenReach, commented:

“At the same time, we encourage many people to recognize the importance of taking time away from devices and digital connections.”

Can Humans Thrive Beneath the Waves? Exploring a Live Underwater Experiment

Posted on June 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In recent years, the desire to establish human colonies beyond Earth, whether to escape environmental issues or explore uncharted territories, has gained significant traction.

While much attention is given to proposed bases on the Moon and Mars, there’s a more challenging and lesser-known frontier much closer to home: the ocean’s depths.

This concept isn’t new. Since the 1960s, with pioneers like French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, individuals have created and spent extended periods in aquatic habitats.

NASA has been sending teams to the Aquarius Reef Base since 2001. This research facility, located 20 meters (around 65 feet) underwater off the Florida coast, has allowed scientists, engineers, and future astronauts to live in the module for 7 to 14 days.

With advancements in technology, prolonged underwater stays may become feasible. The UK company, Deep, is leveraging this technology to design habitats for extended underwater living. But, is the technology the only challenge we face?

Above the Atmosphere, Under the Sea

Humans are quite vulnerable. We struggle without oxygen or sunlight and are not fond of extreme pressure changes. Thus, we might not be the best candidates for life at the ocean floor.

This doesn’t imply that we can’t thrive in inhospitable environments.

Since 2000, astronauts have spent significant periods aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Several astronauts have been documented living in the ISS for over 300 consecutive days, but Valeri Polyakov holds the record, having spent 437 days aboard the Mir Space Station in Russia between 1994 and 1995.

Moreover, astronauts returning from lengthy missions often face health issues, such as reduced bone density and muscle atrophy. What does this mean for those who aim to live underwater?

The most extensive study is that of Rudiger Koch, a German aerospace engineer who lived in a capsule submerged 11 meters (36 feet) under the Caribbean Sea for 120 days between 2024 and 2025.

Rudiger Koch on the balcony of the capsule where he lived between 2024 and 2025.

Koch reported no health issues upon celebrating with champagne and cigars.

In second place is Professor Joseph Dituri, who spent 100 days studying the physical and psychological effects of living underwater in a lodge situated at the bottom of a 9-meter deep (30-foot) lagoon in Florida.

Dituri conducted daily tests during his time submerged and following his return to the surface. Notably, aside from minor setbacks, he felt quite well.

He noted improvements in sleep quality, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. His stem cell count, testosterone levels, and cognitive performance also improved.

Interestingly, Dituri appeared to have lowered his biological age (an indicator of the aging process of the body), although he was recorded as having shrunk by over 1 cm (approximately 0.5 inches) due to the pressurized environment inside the lodge.

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A Step Towards Living Underwater

With limited data, we still have a tenuous understanding of life in aquatic environments. This is where Deep comes in.

The ocean technology and exploration company aims to develop two habitats by 2027, with the goal of establishing a permanent underwater presence. They are using a submerged quarry in Gloucestershire as a testing ground for their underwater habitats.

Deep is developing two habitat models: Vanguard, designed for three-person short stays, and Sentinel, a 16-meter (52-foot) capsule intended as a long-term habitat complete with living quarters, bedrooms, and research facilities, capable of accommodating researchers at depths of up to 200 meters (656 feet) for 28 days.

The aim is to enable researchers to remain submerged for extended periods, allowing for comprehensive studies of underwater living impacts and marine life. However, achieving these depths poses significant challenges.

“The most hazardous aspects of diving occur during descent,” explains Dr. Dawn Kernagis, Deep’s scientific research director. “Divers breathe compressed gas, with fluctuating pressure increasing the risk of decompression sickness (DCS), where gas bubbles form in the bloodstream.”

While most DCS cases are mild, severe instances can impact the brain, spinal cord, respiratory system, and circulatory systems.

To mitigate these risks, Deep aims to keep researchers “saturated” in the Sentinel habitats. This means achieving a new equilibrium with the underwater environment.

“Saturated tanks, like ours, facilitate diving into greater depths and adjusting to the pressure, enabling much longer stays, ranging from hours to about a month,” states Kernagis.

Deep plans for close monitoring of researchers during their stays to better understand the long-term physical and psychological effects of deep-sea living.

The foundation laid now may support future inhabitants underwater for weeks, months, or even years. In the not-so-distant future, some of us may find ourselves living in a modern-day Atlantis.

About Our Experts

Dr. Dawn Kernagis is the director of scientific research at Deep, a UK-based ocean technology and exploration firm. She has published in numerous scientific journals, including Journal of Clinical Oncology, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and Circulation.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Exploring the Value of Boredom: Should We Embrace It? | Psychology

Posted on June 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 2014, a team of researchers from Harvard and the University of Virginia invited participants to spend 15 minutes alone with their thoughts, with the only option for interaction being a button that delivered a painful electric shock. Almost half of the participants chose to press that button. One individual pressed it 190 times despite previously expressing a desire to avoid the shock. The study’s authors concluded that “people prefer thinking,” even when the alternative is discomfort. This might be because, when left to our own devices, our minds often wander to unwelcome thoughts.

Since the widespread use of smartphones, many have carrying the psychological equivalent of the electric shock button in their pockets. This device can quickly alleviate boredom, even though it may not be beneficial for us. During quiet or solitary moments, we often reach for our phones or use them to distract ourselves from unsettling late-night thoughts. Every time this occurs, it reinforces unhealthy patterns, making it easier to evade unwanted thoughts. It’s significant to note that most individuals become distracted through similar screen-based methods.

Smartphones amplify the expectation to use our time efficiently, pushing us to optimize every moment. For instance, if a commuter on a Harley Reed must look out the window or read a book on the train, they may check emails to avoid feelings of guilt and inefficiency. Doing nothing is often regarded as time wasted, disregarding the fact that during such moments, we engage in profound thinking. What becomes of the complex thoughts that arise right before we reach for our phones again?

Psychologists who specialize in boredom acknowledge its discomfort yet recognize its value. Similar to hunger and loneliness, it signals our need for change or novelty. Erin Westgate, a psychology professor at the University of Florida, explains that we feel bored when something fails to capture our attention or is deemed meaningless. However, this does not imply that engaging activities must always be significant. For example, while Sudoku is engaging, it lacks true meaning, unlike mundane tasks like watching paint dry.

When boredom strikes, it should ideally inspire us to pursue something more meaningful or captivating. If we fail to address our boredom or are unable to find something engaging, we risk slipping into chronic boredom. As noted in research, this condition is linked with various issues including depression, anxiety, life satisfaction, poor academic outcomes, substance abuse, and reckless behavior, among others.

Evidence indicates that persistent boredom is becoming increasingly prevalent, coinciding with the rise of smartphones. In a study published last year, researchers stated that the percentage of students in China and the US describing themselves as bored has steadily climbed since 2010. Why does digital media contribute to this trend? Research suggests that we often reach for our phones to alleviate boredom, yet this behavior can actually exacerbate it. For instance, one study revealed that those bored at work were more inclined to use their smartphones, leading to even greater boredom later on.

While checking your phone may address certain immediate needs when boredom arises, digital devices excel at capturing and retaining attention. Most online interactions are designed for engagement and monetization rather than meaningful connection. With the myriad of notifications and distractions, it’s all too easy to plan for just a quick five-minute check lasting two hours. The average American spends over 4 hours a day using their smartphones, accumulating to more than 7 hours of screen time daily. This translates to 17 years of life spent online as an adult—a reality that even the most ardent tech enthusiasts would likely view with concern.

The allure of mobile phones can quickly overshadow important messages we might need to contemplate, such as “Why am I feeling like this?” or “What do I truly need?” It’s essential to pause and ask ourselves these questions instead of being swayed by technology. When faced with boredom, we should resist the impulse for immediate relief and take time to reflect. Embracing boredom, even briefly, may paradoxically lead us to more meaningful and creative experiences in life.

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Bored and Brilliant by Manoush Zomorodi (Pan Macmillan, £14.99)

Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport (Penguin, £10.99)

The Antidote by Oliver Berkman (Vintage, £10.99)

Earn Up to £800 Daily: How Fraudsters Use Phones and Texts to Deceive Victims

Posted on June 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

oBlue UT You will receive a call or text offering you a job opportunity. It seems enticing – it’s remote work, and you can potentially earn £800 daily. If you’re interested, just reach out to the sender through the provided WhatsApp number.

The tasks are quite simple. Typically, you’re asked to engage with TikTok content through likes and shares.

“Once you start liking and sharing, you’ll get a small payout. However, this is fraudulent funding tied to individuals involved in scams,” remarks Annya Burskys, head of fraud prevention at the National Building Association. “Then, you might be told that you need to pay a total to unlock greater profits, which could be framed as a training fee.

“Part of that money is used to compensate other victims, leading some into organized crime syndicates.”

Burskys highlights that this initial outreach is particularly enticing for many, especially students.

“We’re noticing an uptick in incidents, particularly within the 16-25 age group,” she says. “Previously, we didn’t receive such reports daily, but now we hear from individuals who have sent money or from banks alerting us about funds transferred to these accounts.”

In some instances, the victim might inadvertently become a “money mule.”

Beyond sharing funds or account details, victims may later discover that their bank and identity information have been exploited for additional fraud.

Typically, victims incur losses amounting to hundreds or thousands of pounds. “It’s far from a good deal. The concern lies in the volume,” she explains. “Events unfold swiftly. From initiation to the realization that you’ve been scammed, an investment fraud can occur over mere months or even years.”

As academic institutions close for the summer, students seeking employment should be cautious of potential scams.

What does fraud look like?

The £800 figure frequently appears in correspondence related to the scam. You will be prompted to contact via WhatsApp. Photo: Guardian

Messages often claim to originate from recruitment agencies, sometimes using legitimate company names or stating availability of work through TikTok. Some texts even reference your CV as if you’d submitted it. They promise earnings of hundreds of pounds daily (the £800 figure is a recurring theme).

Calls may bear similarities too. In a recent week, an automated voice falsely claimed to represent a recruitment agency, instructing recipients to contact via WhatsApp if interested in the job. The associated phone number typically appears as a regular UK mobile.

Some scams reference your CV as if you had submitted it. Photo: Guardian

What the message asks for

The initial message will prompt you to express interest in the position. The scammer will claim it involves work related to sharing content preferences (likely TikTok videos). When you register or when it’s time for payment, you may be asked for more personal information.

You might receive an initial “payment,” but then you will be requested to cover costs for training or to unlock access to higher earnings.

What to do

Be cautious of unsolicited messages that claim to offer job opportunities. This approach is not typical for genuine recruitment agencies. The agency asserts, “In fact, we don’t utilize our platform to directly contact job seekers for our employers to acquire new employees.”

Burskys recommends that if you receive messages from recruiters or companies offering jobs, investigate by “using the company’s home and researching on LinkedIn.” A company’s home page may provide insights into its operations, directors, and details regarding their legitimacy.

If you know the name of the employer, visit their site to see if the position is advertised.

In the UK, reports of fraudulent messages can be forwarded to 7726.

Numerous recruiters provide advice on safely conducting your job search, such as these tips.