Scientists have discovered further reasons to embrace nature
Colin Anderson/Blend Images LLC/Getty Images
It’s well established that “forest bathing” offers numerous psychological benefits, like alleviating stress and anxiety, but recent studies indicate that it may also help in lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation, thereby enhancing physical health.
This practice, known as Shinrin Yoku, entails deep breathing and immersing oneself in nature while being aware of the surrounding sights, sounds, and scents.
Iwao Uehara from Tokyo University of Agriculture and his team aimed to delve deeper into the advantages of this practice by studying 36 adults aged between 60 and 80 who had high blood pressure.
Out of these, 24 participants engaged in a soothing hike lasting about 3.5 hours each day over the course of three days and two nights in the tranquil Qianjiangyuan National Park, China. They also took part in a one-hour guided mindfulness meditation session.
Additionally, they participated in Qigong, a traditional Chinese exercise characterized by slow, deliberate movements, along with a daily hour-long tea ceremony, enhancing their overall experience of forest bathing.
The researchers assigned 12 participants to urban living conditions, where they engaged in similar walking activities near their hotel and partook in a day-long group mindfulness meditation.
Both groups adhered to the same activity and sleep schedules and consumed identical meals, while the use of electronic devices, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine was forbidden during the study.
Heart rate, blood pressure, and C-reactive protein levels—a marker of inflammation—were measured in all participants before and after the intervention.
Results showed that those in the forest bathing group exhibited significantly reduced blood pressure and C-reactive protein levels in comparison to their urban counterparts. Additionally, a marked increase in heart rate variability was observed, which is associated with heart health. Higher scores correlate with better heart health.
“Forest therapy is a cost-effective and sensible treatment option for individuals with high blood pressure,” states Uehara. Researchers theorize that forest bathing may help soothe the nervous system and improve heart and circulatory health.
The forest group also reported notable decreases in anxiety and stress, along with enhanced energy levels compared to the urban group.
However, Julia Goffke of Virginia Tech pointed out that the study did not track the number of steps taken by the groups, suggesting that greater mobility among the forest bathing participants could explain some of the improved outcomes.
Nonetheless, the findings reinforce previous evidence that “being in a forest environment lessens stress-induced physiological and emotional reactions,” adds Gohlke.
Elon Musk and his social media platform X reached a provisional agreement with a former Twitter employee on Wednesday, concluding years of legal disputes regarding retirement benefits. The ex-staff member was pursuing $500 million in a proposed class action lawsuit against the billionaire.
A court filing issued on Wednesday indicated that the involved parties have in principle come to a settlement agreement and requested a postponement of the case while they finalize the terms. The details of the interim agreement remain undisclosed, leaving it uncertain what amount of compensation the former employee might receive.
Former Twitter employees, led by Courtney McMillian and Ronald Cooper, contended that the firm inadequately paid retirement benefits to thousands of workers following significant layoffs. After Musk took over Twitter in 2022, he eliminated over 6,000 positions as part of a workforce overhaul, notably impacting nearly all divisions, including content moderation and communications. The layoffs triggered several ongoing lawsuits from both staff and executives, highlighting Musk’s vision of “government efficiency” during the government’s recent upheaval.
The lawsuit asserts that according to the 2019 retirement plan, employees were entitled to at least two months’ salary and additional compensation based on their tenure. However, Musk allegedly failed to adhere to the contract, at times leaving employees without any compensation.
The interim settlement marks a shift from last year when a US district judge dismissed McMillian’s case, favoring Musk. In July, Judge Trina Thompson ruled that the Federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) did not cover the former employee’s claims, necessitating an appeal to a higher court.
Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter, which was later rebranded to X, continues to be a contentious business venture. Twitter executives, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, are also involved in lawsuits against Musk concerning allegations of his failure to pay $128 million in severance.
Rangers aiming to install stoat traps in the KEA Basin, New Zealand
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
A massive conservation initiative is being undertaken throughout New Zealand to eliminate invasive species, allowing various native and endangered birds to thrive.
Kiwis that live on the ground
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
The nationwide predator eradication initiative, documented by photographer Robin Hammond, boldly aims to exterminate three invasive species introduced by humans: rats, stoats, and possums. These predators have decimated the populations of ground-nesting birds like kiwis. This ambitious plan includes the controversial aerial application of sodium fluoroacetate poison targeting these mammals (as seen in the main image).
Biodiversity Ranger Steven Cox releases a young kiwi
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
“It’s conservation through culling,” states Hammond. “It’s a tough choice, yet inaction leads to significant losses in our bird populations.”
Efforts are also focused on ensuring kiwis and other birds are large enough to withstand mammalian predation (as shown above).
Staff releasing Takahe birds
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
In the wild, kiwi eggs have only a 5% chance of maturing into adults. However, adult birds like the non-flying hawk (as shown above and below) have significantly better survival rates.
Conducting a final health assessment and attaching transmitters to Takahe birds
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
Stuffed Auckland Island merganser (Mergus australis)
Robin Hammond/Panos Photos
Unfortunately, it’s already too late for certain birds, like the Merganser from Auckland Island (illustrated above). After its disappearance in 1902, it has since been confined to museum exhibits. “I’ve witnessed flocks flying around Wellington without even knowing they existed as a child,” states Hammond. “Though, you can now hear their songs, something that was not the case before.”
Oral assessments, enhanced security protocols, and quicker evaluations are all on the agenda as Generated Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to redefine the future of student examinations.
As the 2025 exam season draws to a close, AI is already making waves following the announcement of GCSE results, with students primarily relying on conventional pen-and-paper methods for their exams.
With a transformation in exam preparation underway, students are increasingly turning to personalized AI tutors that generate study materials tailored to their specific needs, potentially leading to improved results.
“Thanks to AI, students can ask questions outside of class or at unconventional times without fear of judgment, which enhances their understanding.
“This trend really accelerated over the summer,” noted Sandra Leaton Gray, a professor of education futures at the University of London Institute of Education. “Students can discuss the marking criteria, upload their work, and run sample answers through the AI. They can even ask, ‘How can I enhance my answer?’ It’s like having an unending tutor.”
Some experts argue that as AI continues to evolve rapidly, a completely new exam format will be necessary to evaluate how effectively students are utilizing it. Dr. Thomas Lancaster, a computer scientist at Imperial College London specializing in generative AI and academic integrity, remarked, “This type of examination feels inevitable at this point.”
Lancaster cautioned that AI could facilitate new forms of cheating. “We need to enhance security measures in exams and provide more training to help identify banned devices,” he stated.
“Currently, communication devices can be as discreet as hidden earpieces, and AI-enabled smart glasses introduce even more hazards.”
Sir Ian Buckham, the chief regulator of the UK’s qualification authority, highlighted the risks AI poses to using extended writing assessments for evaluating student knowledge.
In a conversation with the Guardian, he expressed concerns about the qualifications associated with the expansion project, noting that students engaged in independent research could combine this with A-levels, which is equivalent to half of an A-level.
“I believe it holds significant importance, and universities have indicated they value it, too,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to take drastic actions, but I am concerned about how extensively AI will support students in this qualification.”
“Anyone advocating for a shift away from comprehensive testing systems that control AI usage will encounter a much more challenging situation.”
Rogoyski echoed these concerns, stating:
“Whether it’s AI or human, the exam format must change to emphasize assessing comprehension of the material. This could involve Vivas or discussions on the examined topics.”
He also cautioned that as students increasingly integrate technology into their daily lives, early indications of AI addiction are surfacing.
On the potential advantages of AI for the testing system, Jill Duffy, chairperson of the Qualifications Committee and CEO of OCR Awards, mentioned that the examination board is exploring ways in which AI could accelerate and enhance the quality of evaluations.
One possibility is that GCSE and A-level results may be delivered within a month instead of two. OCR is currently utilizing AI in its trials to convert handwritten responses into digital text, aiming to minimize delays due to illegible handwriting. If successful, this could mean that students receive university placements based on their qualifications, rather than predicted grades.
Duffy noted that increased use of Vivas and alternative forms of oral assessment are already prevalent in higher education. “If we see this happening there, could it start to be adopted in schools? It’s a possibility,” she said.
Lancaster concluded: “Overall, exams are here to stay in some form, but the nature of those exams may differ significantly from how they currently appear.”
TikTok is jeopardizing the roles of hundreds of UK content moderators, despite the implementation of stricter regulations aimed at curbing the dissemination of harmful materials online.
The popular video-sharing platform announced that hundreds of positions within its trust and safety teams could be impacted in the UK, as well as South and Southeast Asia, as part of a global reorganization effort.
Their responsibilities have been shifted to other European locations and third-party contractors, with some trust and safety roles still remaining in the UK, the company clarified.
This move aligns with TikTok’s broader strategy to utilize artificial intelligence for content moderation. The company stated that over 85% of materials removed for violating community guidelines have been identified and deleted through automation.
The reduction poses challenges for companies, necessitating age verification checks for users accessing potentially harmful content, even with new UK online safety laws now in effect. Organizations risk fines of up to £18 million or 10% of global revenue for non-compliance.
John Chadfield from the Communication Workers Union expressed concerns that replacing human moderators with AI could endanger the safety of millions of TikTok users.
“TikTok employees have consistently highlighted the real-world implications of minimizing human moderation teams in favor of hastily developed AI solutions,” he remarked.
TikTok, which is owned by the Chinese tech firm ByteDance, has a workforce of over 2,500 in the UK.
In the past year, TikTok has decreased its trust and safety personnel globally, often substituting automated systems for human workers. In September, the company laid off an entire team of 300 content moderators in the Netherlands, and in October, it disclosed plans to replace approximately 500 content moderation staff in Malaysia as part of its shift towards AI.
Recently, TikTok employees in Germany conducted a strike against the layoffs in its trust and safety team.
Meanwhile, TikTok’s business is thriving. Accounts filed with Companies House reveal that combined operations in the UK and Europe reached $6.3 billion (£4.7 billion) in 2024, representing a 38% increase from the year before. The operating loss decreased from $1.4 billion in 2023 to $485 million.
A TikTok spokesperson stated that the company is “continuing the reorganization initiated last year to enhance its global operational model for reliability and safety.” This involves a focus on fewer global locations to increase efficiency and speed in the evolution of this essential function for technological progress.
Jiuzhang 4.0 early prototype, a quantum computer that has achieved quantum advantage
Chao-Yang Lu/University of Science and Technology of China
Quantum computers may have achieved a “quantum advantage” by performing tasks beyond the capabilities of the most powerful supercomputers. Experts estimate that replicating the calculations made by classical machines could take an incomprehensible amount of time, equivalent to trillions of times the age of the universe. What implications does this development hold for creating truly functional quantum computers?
The latest record holder in this domain is a quantum computer known as Jiuzhang 4.0, which utilizes particles of light, or photons, to execute computations. Chao-Yang Lu and his team at the University of Science and Technology of China utilized it for Gauss Boson Sampling (GBS). This involves measuring a sample of photons after they navigate a sophisticated arrangement of mirrors and beamsplitters connected to computers.
In earlier attempts to perform this task, the number of utilized photons never exceeded 300. In contrast, Jiuzhang employed 3,090 particles, representing a tenfold improvement in computational strength. Lu and his colleagues estimate that contemporary algorithms on the most powerful supercomputers would require a staggering 1042 years to replicate what Jiuzhang accomplished in just 25.6 microseconds.
“These results are certainly an impressive technical achievement,” said Jonathan Lavoy of the Canadian quantum computing startup Xanadu, which previously held the GBS record with 219 photons. Chris Langer of Quantinuum noted that while their systems have previously demonstrated quantum advantages in various forms of quantum computing, this advancement is significant. “It’s essential to establish that quantum systems cannot be simulated by classical means,” he asserts.
However, Jiuzhang’s previous versions have been used successfully in conducting GBS with a considerable number of photons, but each time a classical computer eventually replicated the results, sometimes within an hour.
Bill Fefferman from the University of Chicago mentions that he is working on a classical algorithm to achieve victory over quantum systems but notes that significant challenges exist for photonic devices. Many photons are lost during the operation of quantum computers, and the systems tend to be noisy. “Currently, we’ve managed to reduce noise while simultaneously ramping up experimentation. However, our algorithm has yet to find a breakthrough,” states Fefferman.
Lu points out that addressing photon loss is the primary hurdle his team faced in the latest experiment. Nevertheless, Jiuzhang remains free of noise, suggesting potential for new classical simulation strategies to take on the title of superiority.
“In my view, they haven’t achieved full power yet, but they are certainly in a position to prove that such classical strategies may not be feasible,” remarks Gelmarenema from the University of Twente, Netherlands.
This presents a “noble cycle” where the competition between classical algorithms and quantum devices enables a better understanding of the blurry lines separating classical and quantum realms, according to Fefferman. From a fundamental science view, this signifies a triumph for all; however, whether quantum computing can be effectively harnessed in more powerful machines remains an open question.
Langer describes GBS as an “entry-level benchmark” that highlights the distinction between quantum and classical computers, but the results do not necessarily indicate the practical utility of such machines. From a rigorous mathematical perspective, evaluating GBS as concrete evidence of quantum advantage is challenging, as Nicolas Quesada at Polytechnic Montreal, Canada, points out. Identifying a clear pathway to developing a superior machine using GBS remains elusive.
This is primarily because Jiuzhang’s hardware is highly specialized, and programming quantum computers for a variety of calculations remains unachieved. “It might demonstrate computational advantages for narrow tasks, but it fundamentally lacks the key components for practical quantum calculations that involve fault tolerance,” explains Lavoy. Fault tolerance refers to a quantum computer’s ability to recognize and correct its own errors—an essential capability that has yet to be realized in contemporary quantum systems.
Meanwhile, Lu and his team advocate for various applications stemming from Jiuzhang’s remarkable capabilities in GBS. This approach could revolutionize computations tied to image recognition, chemistry, and specific mathematical challenges associated with machine learning. Fabio Sciarrino from the University of Sapienza in Rome suggests that though this quantum computing paradigm is still nascent, its realization could lead to groundbreaking changes.
Specifically, advancements like Jiuzhang’s device could pave the way for the creation of extraordinary light-based quantum computers, asserts Sciarrino. These computers would be programmed in entirely innovative manners and excel in machine learning-related tasks.
With the rise of retail simulators, the gaming landscape has become quite dense. On the Comet Trail in Stardew Valley, this genre flourishes, featuring protagonists who revive their lives and careers in a semi-rural setting filled with pastoral charm, often taking on blue-collar jobs. Players engage with the locals, influence their lives, and resolve community issues—perhaps even uncovering a mystery or two. They might even find love along the way. Essentially, these characters are pixelated heirs to the legacy of Harvest Moon, yet recent titles from Crinkle Cut Games offer a slightly different take on the cozy shop simulation experience.
In Dissevery, you find yourself taken under the wing of your cunning aunt and joining the franchise’s supermarket brunch initiative. The game’s unique twist focuses on building up local supermarkets rather than community centers, given the quaint absence of roadways in Stardew Valley. Dissiventy weaves a narrative focused on revitalizing the economy of a small town, balancing sharp challenges within a cozy game framework.
Sharp elements…discounts. Photo: Crinkle Cut Game
The aspect of building a supermarket is indeed satisfying. Stock your store, open its doors, and let the customers in. The till system initially functions like a tricky little math puzzle, but it evolves into something more intricate as you progress. Speed becomes crucial—you’ll need to keep customers satisfied, ensure shelves are stocked, floors are tidy, and everything runs efficiently. After a busy day, the store closes, allowing you to breathe, clean up, and retreat to a cozy trailer outside your aunt’s grand home. Aunt Terror is a savvy businesswoman with grand ambitions, and you’ll need to navigate her disputes with the locals, some of whom she dismisses to let you take charge. This unique tone is quite refreshing; it strays from the typical cute aesthetic, focusing instead on supermarket management rather than a whimsical farm life.
The graphics can be somewhat misleading. While the pixel art may initially suggest a sweet and innocent vibe, the town you inhabit is far from pristine. There are dilapidated docks, shuttered shop fronts, and peeling posters on the walls, hinting at a deeper narrative. Even the music complements this atmosphere, providing ambient yet engaging background sounds that enhance the overall experience.
Consulting with locals involves addressing their concerns, often requiring some tact due to your aunt’s tricky nature. This task carries significant responsibility and demands intense focus. At times, the controls can feel a bit awkward. I found the touchscreen options on the Steam Deck somewhat challenging to navigate, particularly in the early game stages where there aren’t many options and you’re juggling basic tasks. However, the initial resistance isn’t overwhelming. I was impressed by how the challenges gradually become more manageable, emphasizing the rewarding nature of everyday tasks.
Dissiventy serves as a noteworthy addition to the cozy life simulation genre, presenting a hands-on experience filled with ambition. It deviates from typical tropes while maintaining an engaging focus. While romance may not be a primary theme in managing a supermarket, there’s plenty to accomplish, ensuring it still offers an enjoyable gaming experience.
The tragic demise of a man in France, which was live-streamed on the online platform Kick, has prompted a police investigation. Authorities are urging regulators to examine the events of the broadcast and the implications of live streaming on the internet. What is Kick, what transpired, and what are the next steps?
What Happened?
Rafael Graven, 46, from southern France, was known online as Jean Pawmanbe.
This week, he tragically passed away during an extended live stream on the platform. Reports suggest that, prior to his death, he was subjected to physical assaults and humiliation by his associates. A disturbing excerpt from the stream viewed by the Guardian indicates that Graven was struck, humiliated, strangled, and shot with a paintball gun.
His channel has since been removed, and the involved parties are banned pending the investigation by Kick.
One of the collaborators informed local media that Graven had pre-existing cardiovascular issues and claimed, “the scene was just staged and followed a script.”
An autopsy has been ordered, and a police investigation is underway regarding Graven’s death.
What is Kick?
Kick is a live streaming platform akin to Twitch, where users often watch gaming sessions and various live activities.
Founded in Melbourne in 2022 by billionaires Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, Craven previously established Stake.com, the world’s largest cryptocurrency casino. Kick expanded its user base by attracting Twitch streamers who supported Stake before Twitch’s ban on gambling advertisements.
Kick claims that content creators retain 95% of their streaming revenue.
The platform is known for a more lenient approach to content moderation compared to Twitch, although it does have community guidelines prohibiting “content that depicts or incites heinous violence, including serious harm, suffering, and death.”
Additionally, Kick asserts that it will not allow content featuring severe self-harm.
Earlier this year, the company announced new rules permitting gambling streams only from verified sites to protect minors from such content.
Why Wasn’t the Channel Banned?
A spokesperson for Kick did not provide an explanation as to why the Jean Pawmanbe channel remained active before Graven’s death.
“We are urgently reviewing the situation, engaging with relevant stakeholders, and investigating the matter,” the spokesperson stated. “Kick’s Community Guidelines are established to protect creators, and we are committed to maintaining these standards across the platform.”
What Did Kick Say About the Death?
The company expressed its support for the ongoing investigation and shared its grief over Graven’s passing.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jean Pawmanbe and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and community.”
Will Kick Face Any Repercussions?
In France, Clara Chappaz, Deputy Minister of AI and Digital Technology, characterized the incident as “absolutely horrifying,” announcing an ongoing judicial investigation. The matter has been escalated to the French portal for reporting internet content concerns, as well as the digital regulator ARCOM.
Being an Australian company, Kick could also face local scrutiny.
A spokesperson for the Esafety Commissioner referred to the case as “tragic,” emphasizing that it highlights the potentially devastating real-world consequences of extreme content creation.
The spokesperson remarked, “Platforms like Kick must do more to enforce their terms and conditions to minimize harmful content and behavior during streams, ensuring protection for all users.”
Given Kick’s chat features, there may be implications for the Australian government’s planned social media age restrictions for users under 16, starting in December.
Furthermore, new industry codes and standards now require Kick and similar platforms to have systems to shield Australians from inappropriate content, including depictions of crime and violence without justification.
“This encompasses mandates to uphold terms and conditions that prohibit such material and to address user reports swiftly and appropriately,” the spokesperson added. “ESAFETY may seek penalties of up to $49.5 million for compliance violations if warranted.”
Additional codes are under consideration to specifically target children’s exposure to violent content.
Starting next month, all phones and tablets purchased in Russia must come with a state-backed messaging app named Max pre-installed. Critics claim it can be used to track users, positioning it as a competitor to WhatsApp.
The initiative to promote Max is tied to Moscow’s effort to exert more internet control amid ongoing conflict with the West, particularly regarding Ukraine. The Kremlin has announced that Max, which will connect with government services, is among the mandated pre-installed applications for all “gadgets,” including phones and tablets sold in Russia since September 1. This week, the company behind Max reported 18 million downloads, although some users are still testing the app.
State media has suggested that critics of the Kremlin label Max as a spy app, but it reportedly has fewer permissions to access user data compared to competitors like WhatsApp and Telegram.
From September 1, Max will also be pre-installed on Apple devices via Rustore, a domestic app store that is included on all Android devices. Additionally, a Russian-language TV app named Lime HD TV will be available for free access to state TV channels, and will be pre-installed on all smart TVs sold in Russia since January 1.
This drive to promote local applications follows Russia’s announcement that it will start limiting calls on WhatsApp, owned by the Meta platform, and Telegram.
WhatsApp, which had approximately 97.3 million users in Russia as of July, accused Moscow of attempting to restrict secure communication access for Russians, while Telegram, with a user base of about 90 million, stated it would actively combat the misuse of its platform.
As per MediaScope data, VK Messenger was the third most popular messaging app in July, boasting 17.9 million users. VK, the state-managed tech company behind Max, also provides VK Messenger.
The Russian Interior Ministry reported on Wednesday that Max is a safer alternative to its foreign counterparts and has already implicated a suspect in the first fraud case involving this new messaging platform.
Numerous news outlets have removed articles authored by freelance journalists suspected to be using AI-generated content.
On Thursday, Press Gazette reported that at least six publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have taken down articles from their platforms after it was revealed that pieces written under the name Margaux Blanchard were AI-generated.
Wired published an article in May titled “I fell in love playing Minecraft. The game became a wedding venue.” Shortly after, the article was retracted with an editor’s note stating that “after further review, the Wired editorial team determined that this article did not meet editorial standards.”
According to Press Gazette, which reviewed the WIRED article, “Jessica Hu” is said to be “a Chicago-based commander.” However, both Press Gazette and The Guardian were unable to verify Hu’s identity.
Press Gazette further reported that in April, Business Insider published two essays by Blanchard, one of which discussed the complexities of remote work for parents. After Press Gazette alerted Business Insider about the author’s credibility, the platform deleted the article, displaying a note that read, “This story has been deleted because it did not meet Business Insider standards.”
In a comment to The Guardian, a Business Insider representative stated:
In an article released by Wired, the management acknowledged the oversight, saying, “If anyone can catch an AI con artist, it’s Wired. Unfortunately, we’ve encountered this issue.”
Wired further explained that one of its editors received a pitch about the “rise of niche internet weddings” that had “all the signs of a great Wired story.”
After initial discussions on framing and payment, the editors assigned the story, which was published on May 7.
However, it soon became evident that the writers were unable to provide enough details needed for payment processing. The outlet noted that the writer insisted on payment via PayPal or check.
Subsequent investigations revealed the story was fabricated.
In the Thursday article, Wired noted, “I made an error here. This story did not undergo a proper fact-checking procedure or receive top editing from a senior editor. I acted promptly upon discovering the issue to prevent future occurrences.”
Press Gazette reported that Jacob Philady, editor of a new magazine named Dispatch, was the first to warn of fraudulent activity related to Blanchard’s article. He mentioned earlier this month that he received a pitch from Blanchard, claiming “Gravemont, a decommissioned mining town in Colorado, has been repurposed as one of the world’s most secretive training grounds for death investigations.”
In the pitch shared with Press Gazette, Blanchard stated, “I want to tell the story of a scientist, a former cop, and a former miner who now deal with the deceased daily. I explore ethical dilemmas using real individuals in staged environments, not as mourners but as true archivists.”
She asserted, “I’m the right person for this because I’ve previously reported on concealed training sites, have contacts in forensic circles, and know how to navigate sensitive, closed communities with empathy and discretion.”
Philady informed Press Gazette that the pitch sounded AI-generated, and he could not find any information about Gravemont. The Guardian was also unable to confirm the details regarding the dubious town.
When questioned about how she learned of the town, Blanchard replied, “I’m not surprised you couldn’t find much. Gravemont doesn’t promote itself. I initially interviewed someone irrelevant to a retired forensic pathologist.”
She continued, “Over the following months, I further pieced the story together by requesting public records, speaking with former trainees, and sifting through forensic association meeting materials, none of which were mentioned in print.
“This is a location that exists in the collective memory of the industry, but remains under the radar enough to avoid extensive coverage, which is precisely why I believe it resonates with interested readers,” Blanchard added.
Philady told Press Gazette that despite the pitch seeming “very convincing,” he suspected she was “bulk.” He requested Blanchard to provide her standard rates and how long she would be in the field.
In response, Blanchard ignored Philady’s request for public records, indicating instead that she would “ideally spend five to seven days on location” and would require around $670 for payment.
Last Friday, Philady confronted Blanchard via email, stating he would publish a false story if she did not respond. Press Gazette further revealed that Blanchard did not reply to his request for evidence of her identity.
This instance of false AI-generated articles follows an earlier incident in May when the Chicago Sun-Times ran a section containing a fake reading list produced by AI.
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It’s unforgettable—the first time you play a Metal Gear game. Among them, Konami’s iconic stealth series is epitomized by the 2004 installment, Snake Eater. This initial chapter and its sequel acted as a reboot. Initially aimed for the PS3 due to its ambitious technology, it was eventually released on the PS2. The writer-director, Kojima, sought to take the gravelly-voiced protagonist, Solid Snake, out of the shadowy military bases and into the great outdoors. With elements like food hunting and broken bones that could be reset, Snake Eater felt far more grounded and immersive compared to PlayStation games of the 2000s.
Despite Snake Eater’s significant transformations, one classic aspect remains unchanged—stellar voice acting. In Konami’s upcoming remake, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, all the iconic, absurd lines from the original script are preserved. Enhanced with modern controls and stunning new graphics, Delta more closely resembles a 4K restoration of a beloved film than a standard remake akin to the latest Resident Evil titles.
“To their credit, Konami wanted to maintain the authentic experience,” says David Hater, the voice of Solid Snake. “They aimed to ensure it felt like the original, while still leveraging today’s technology.”
“Very cinematic”… Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami
Hater, who also penned the scripts for the 2000s X-Men films, takes immense pride in his portrayal of Solid Snake, a role achieved through the unique recording process of his eccentric performances. “For my first Metal Gear Solid, I recorded in an unusual house in Hollywood,” he reflects. “There were five microphones set up and it was just me and the other actors.”
This atypical setup was in stark contrast to the usual individual recording method, where voice actors would record separately, and their performances would be pieced together afterward. Hater found this collaborative approach to be incredibly effective. “I insisted my contract required me to record in this manner for all the Metal Gear games; I’d be in the booth alongside other top voice talents for months at a time.”
By the time the actors recorded their roles for Metal Gear Solid, the storyline was nearly finalized. However, for Snake Eater, they received only cues, leaving much of the visual imagination to the voice talent. “We had no visuals,” says Hater. “It was challenging to grasp the full impact of what we were creating at the time.”
“I know why you go back to it over and over again”… Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami
This shared experience resonates with Lori Alan, who voices The Boss, a key character in Snake Eater. “This is where the voice director showcased his remarkable skills,” Alan shares. “The recording sessions were intense. After a session, you’d exit saying, ‘What a ride!’ as the director would quietly remind you, ‘You love him. You trained him. You’ll betray your country!’ It was astonishing, and left you feeling completely drained.”
As Alan departed the booth while Hater was recording, she didn’t fully grasp the impact of the character she embodied. “I have a devoted fan who once sent me a clip, but I’ve never played it,” Alan admits. Over two decades later, she finally experienced the iconic role she helped create. “We were filming promotional videos for the remake,” Hater recalls. “Lori mentioned she wanted to know what we did back then, but it was hard to convey! So, I sent her the complete cutscene from the game… A couple of hours later, I received an emotional call from her. She was in tears, saying, ‘Oh my god! I didn’t understand before, but now I get it.'”
“It’s incredibly cinematic,” Alan adds. “The depth of the relationships stands out, giving me chills. I found myself completely engaged in the storytelling, as one would when reading a captivating novel or watching a compelling film.”
“We didn’t need to change anything great from the original”… Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami
Beyond some audio refinement and adjustments to fit the new control system, the cast confirms that no additional material was introduced in Delta. “I like to think I’ve become a better actor since then,” Hater muses. “Yet, these recordings had to align perfectly with the original, making it surreal to step back into the booth and reprise the same role after 20 years.”
Hater and Alan aren’t alone in revisiting the jungle—Cynthia Harrell, the original singer of Snake Eater’s theme, has re-recorded the iconic anthem for the remake. Harrell noted that she recorded her vocals with little direction. “That final scene, with the song playing as she dies, the red petals falling… I still cry 20 years later.”
Decades later, that moment remains powerful. Following an emotional climax, players are given the choice to pull the trigger. “I wished there was an option to shoot her in the leg instead,” Hater admits.
The ongoing separation between Kojima and Konami means that the original Snake Eater director isn’t involved in Delta, yet the publisher has engaged and retained members from the original development team. “For me, that thrill and surprise felt like the first time I played, 21 years ago, and that’s the experience we aimed to replicate,” shares Yuji Korekado, a producer on Delta and a former team member. Fellow producer Okamura Noriaki emphasized the intention to maintain creative integrity: “We concluded that adding twists or new plot elements was unnecessary; the original was already exceptional.”
As a new generation grows up unaware of the significance of Revolver Ocelot, Hater views Snake Eater Delta as the ideal reintroduction to one of gaming’s most revered franchises. “Someone asked me last night why they started remastering with No. 3,” he mentions. “That’s because it’s the best, you know? The characters are incredible, and the storylines are profound. These are some of the most tragic and beautiful moments in gaming history. It’s akin to living through a cinematic masterpiece for 60 hours.” 1.
The National Weather Service is gearing up to deliver compromised forecasts. Scientists are advised to suspend all but essential travel, while university-based researchers report that a multi-million dollar federal grant for climate modeling has been abruptly withdrawn.
This represents a new standard within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the US’s primary weather and climate agency, as indicated by interviews with current and past personnel, along with research collaborators.
Six months into the new US administration, the ramifications of significant political shifts are becoming apparent. Although official budget discussions are ongoing, a quiet dismantling is already in progress. Employees warn this jeopardizes the agency’s capacity to safeguard the public against climate-related threats such as floods, wildfires, and hurricanes.
The repercussions extend beyond US borders. NOAA’s research and data underpin the initiatives of global organizations like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the World Weather Organization.
If the US steps back, other nations might need to fill that void, risking missed early warnings for imminent disasters. In fact, EU countries and academic institutions are already racing to recruit former NOAA staff in hopes of bridging the gap.
“It’s nothing but confusion and uncertainty,” said a current NOAA scientist with over 15 years of experience, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “Planning anything is incredibly challenging due to persistent unpredictability.”
Service Reductions and Research Loss
Earlier this year, the National Weather Service (NWS), a division of NOAA, entered into an agreement that led to a reduction of services at 122 weather offices nationwide, stemming from a significant staffing shortage after a wave of early retirements and layoffs.
Currently, public forecasts remain available. However, as wildfire and hurricane seasons peak, vulnerabilities in the system could quickly surface.
The NWS is permitted to hire meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar engineers to fill 450 critical vacancies, but former staff members caution that it might already be too late.
“Public safety is undeniably at risk due to a hastily executed process led by individuals who are overwhelmed by this new role in the NWS,” said meteorologist Alan Gerald, who spent 35 years with NOAA before accepting an early retirement package this year.
While recruitment and training could take months, the departure of senior personnel means lost institutional knowledge could be permanent, Gerald noted.
Even if staffing shortages are ultimately addressed, current personnel are warned that the repercussions may impact long-term preparedness. “What is sacrificed is the research aspect and our ability to continue advancing our modeling and prediction expertise,” stated NOAA scientists.
NOAA’s National Hurricane Centre provides crucial forecasts for tracking the paths of powerful storms, such as the devastating Hurricane Beryl in 2024. – Photo credit: Getty
External partners are already experiencing the consequences. A researcher associated with NOAA shared with BBC Science Focus that a multi-million dollar next-generation weather modeling initiative is now in jeopardy after losing federal backing.
“We’re already not perfect in our work,” the researcher remarked. “And with the climate changing, leading to more extreme events, if we don’t evolve accordingly, lives will be lost, property damage will escalate, and we risk missing critical storm warnings.”
Read more:
“Avoid the term climate.”
Internally, scientists have been instructed to halt all non-essential travel, including attending conferences, which are vital for collaboration across scientific disciplines. This policy was reportedly communicated verbally without formal documentation.
Several sources noted that oral directives have become the norm, often lacking written records.
Scientists added that there is growing reluctance to mention the term “climate.”
“While I’ve never been directly told, ‘Don’t publish this’ or ‘Don’t address climate,’ it’s implicit. For example, external funding guidelines suggest we approach topics differently,” explained a NOAA scientist. “So when working with external colleagues, we often hear ‘don’t mention climate and let’s frame this differently.’
This self-censorship is part of a broader crackdown on climate-related initiatives.
In April, the Commerce Department withdrew nearly $4 million in NOAA funding from Princeton University, effectively terminating three significant collaborative agreements aimed at predicting coastal flooding, sea-level rise, droughts, fires, and floods.
In a general statement, the department criticized one of the Princeton awards for promoting “unfounded and inflated climate threats” and creating “climate anxiety.” Another was deemed no longer aligned with the Trump administration’s priorities, justifying that it suggested significant fluctuations in water availability due to global warming.
The statement proceeded to describe changes in precipitation patterns and rising sea levels as “suspected” effects.
Protesters gathered at a rally outside NOAA Headquarters to protest recent staff reductions on March 3, 2025 – Credit: Getty
In May, NOAA’s Grant Management Department terminated the Northwest Climate Resilience Collaborative (NCRC), a University of Washington initiative that assisted rural communities and tribes in adapting to flooding and intensified heat.
Reports indicate that grants are being cut to “rationalize and reduce federal expenditures and size” since they no longer align with “program goals or agency priorities.”
Separately, the White House also slashed funds associated with the Sixth National Climate Assessment (NCA), despite legal mandates to prepare a comprehensive climate report every four years. Originally scheduled for release in 2028, its future now hangs in uncertainty.
“Part of this is a tactic to downplay the significance of the work being done,” remarked a NOAA scientist.
“For instance, we now refer to what we consider ‘climate’ as something broader than weather patterns. While we traditionally described forecasts as ‘climate,’ we’ve stopped using that term to avoid attracting attention to it.”
Erosion of Knowledge
Since the new administration took office, NOAA has lost around a fifth of its workforce, with over 1,000 employees, many holding senior leadership positions, opting for early retirement or buyouts this year.
“When experienced staff leave due to exhaustion, that’s one thing,” Gerald remarked. “But losing a significant portion of seasoned personnel is a different issue entirely.”
Morale has plummeted. Employees report that independent programs are being restructured or eliminated with little notice or explanation, and even if funding is restored, considerable damage may already be irreversible.
“We’re talking about a research infrastructure cultivated over 50 or 60 years,” Gerald stated. “That could essentially collapse within a year.”
Carl Gouldman, who recently led the US Integrated Ocean Observing Systems office within NOAA, echoes these concerns.
“The relationships and partnerships necessary for innovation and creating essential features are at substantial risk and may never recover,” he warned. “Humpty Dumpty is shattered, and you can’t reassemble him.”
Negotiations for NOAA’s 2026 budget are still proceeding. The White House’s proposal suggests a 40% cut in institutional funding. Alternate proposals from the House and Senate are more generous, but a compromise could still be months away.
However, Gerald is particularly worried about the interim actions of the administration. He recently referred to a public statement from Russ Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, who indicated that the administration “is not aligned with the legislative department’s understanding of its own authorities and responsibilities.”
“We still have a chance to reevaluate this and consider its implications,” Gerald said. “With climate change and the expanding human footprint—more people causing harm for various reasons—the demand for warnings and predictions is only escalating.”
NOAA has not responded to requests for comment.
Read more:
About Our Experts
Alan Gerald is a meteorologist with over 35 years of experience in issuing warnings and forecasts, focusing on reducing the social impacts of hazardous weather, water, and climate events. He has served for more than 20 years in senior leadership roles at NOAA and most recently was the director of analysis and understanding for the National Intense Storm Institute until March 2025.
Karl Golman is a recently retired director of NOAA’s US Integrated Ocean Observing Systems office, with 25 years of leadership experience in the agency. During his tenure at NOAA, he oversaw annual budgets ranging from $5 billion to $200 million.
A recent study indicates that a group of astronomers in Pennsylvania, along with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, can determine when and where human deep space transmissions are most likely to be detected by extraterrestrial observers beyond our solar system. They can use observed patterns to inform searches for alien intelligence.
Analysis conducted on deep spacenetwork uplink transmission logs over the last two decades et al. It was found that these emissions mainly targeted the Sun or various planets. Image credit: Gemini AI.
“Humans primarily communicate with probes sent to explore spacecraft and other planets like Mars,” stated Pinken Hwang, a graduate student in Pennsylvania.
“Nevertheless, planets such as Mars do not obstruct entire transmissions, enabling spacecraft or celestial bodies along these interplanetary communication pathways to potentially detect signals.
“This implies that when searching for extraterrestrial communications, we need to consider planets outside our solar system that might align with our signals.”
“SETI researchers frequently scan the universe for indicators of past or current technology, referred to as Technosignatures, as potential signs of intelligent life.”
“By analyzing the direction and frequency of our most prevalent signals, we shed light on where we should enhance our chances of discovering alien technical stations.”
In this research, scientists scrutinized logs from NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN), a global facility that enables two-way radio communication with human-made objects in space, serving as a relay to send commands and receive data from spacecraft.
They meticulously aligned the DSN logs with spacecraft location data to pinpoint the timing and direction of radio communications emanating from Earth.
Even though some countries have their own deep space networks, researchers argue that the NASA-operated DSN effectively represents the types of communications coming from Earth, as NASA has spearheaded the most profound space missions to date.
“The DSN establishes crucial connections between Earth and interplanetary missions, such as the NASA New Horizons spacecraft and the NASA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.”
“It emits some of humanity’s most powerful and sustained radio signals into space, and the public logs of these transmissions have enabled our team to identify temporal and spatial patterns over the past 20 years.”
This study concentrated on transmissions directed into deep space, such as signals sent to interplanetary spacecraft, rather than those intended for low-Earth orbit satellites.
The researchers found that deep-space radio signals primarily targeted spacecraft close to Mars.
Other frequent transmissions were directed at telescopes situated at the Lagrange points near Earth and various planets. These points are areas where the gravitational forces of the Sun and Earth keep the telescope in a relatively fixed position from the perspective of Earth.
“Based on data from the last 20 years, we found that if extraterrestrial intelligence exists where we can observe the alignment of Earth and Mars, there is a 77% chance it falls within our transmission path.
“Furthermore, if they can see consistency with another planet in a solar system, there is a 12% chance they are on that transmission path.”
“However, these opportunities are quite substantial if planetary alignment is not observed.”
The team emphasized the need for humans to search for interplanetary alignments to enhance their quest for Technosignatures.
Astronomers routinely examine exoplanets during alignments with their host stars. In fact, the majority of known exoplanets were discovered by observing a star dimming as a planet passes in front of it.
“We only recently started detecting a significant number of exoplanets in the last 10 to 20 years, so we still lack knowledge about many systems that include more than two transiting exoplanets,” Fan noted.
“With the imminent launch of NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, we anticipate the detection of 100,000 previously unknown exoplanets, which should significantly expand our search area.”
Our solar system is relatively flat, with most planets orbiting in the same plane, consequently, most DSN transmissions occurred within 5 degrees of Earth’s orbital plane.
If the solar system were metaphorically likened to a dinner plate with planets and objects lying on its surface, human transmissions would predominantly travel along the surface instead of leaping out into space at steep angles.
The authors also calculated that average DSN transmissions can be detected approximately 23 light-years away using telescopes similar to ours.
“Focusing on solar systems within 23 light-years, particularly those aligned in the plane towards Earth, could enhance our search for extraterrestrial intelligence,” they concluded.
The team is currently strategizing on identifying these systems and estimating how often they receive signals from Earth.
“Humanity is still in the early stages of our space exploration journey, and as we extend our missions into the solar system, transmissions to other planets will only increase,” remarked Professor Jason Wright of Penn.
“We have quantified ways to improve future searches for extraterrestrial intelligence by using our deep space communications as a benchmark to target systems with specific orientations and planetary alignments.”
The team’s paper was published online today in the Astrophysics Journal Letters.
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Ping Chen Fan et al. 2025. Detection of extraterrestrial civilizations employing a global-level deep space network. apjl 990, L1; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/adf6b0
The prohibition of ozone-depleting substances like CFCs has facilitated the recovery of the ozone layer. However, when paired with rising air pollution levels, the heating effects of ozone are now expected to warm the planet by an additional 40% more than previously estimated.
Antarctica’s ozone hole in 2020. Image credit: ESA.
“CFCs and HCFCs are greenhouse gases contributing to global warming,” stated Professor Bill Collins of Reading University and his colleagues.
“Countries have banned these substances to protect the ozone layer, with hopes it will also mitigate climate change.”
“However, as the ozone layer continues to heal, the resulting warming could offset much of the climate benefits we expect from eliminating CFCs and HCFCs.”
“Efforts to reduce air pollution will limit ground-level ozone.”
“Still, the ozone layer will take decades to fully recover, irrespective of air quality policies, leading to unavoidable warming.”
“Safeguarding the ozone layer is vital for human health and skin cancer prevention.”
“It shields the Earth from harmful UV radiation that can affect humans, animals, and plants.”
“Yet, this study indicates that climate policies must be revised to consider the enhanced warming effects of ozone.”
The researchers utilized computer models to project atmospheric changes by the mid-century.
The models continued under a scenario of low pollution, where CFCs and HCFCs have been eliminated as per the Montreal Protocol (1987).
The results indicate that stopping the production of CFCs and HCFCs—primarily to defend the ozone layer—offers fewer climate advantages than previously thought.
Between 2015 and 2050, ozone is predicted to cause an excess warming of 0.27 watts per square meter (WM-2).
This value denotes the additional energy trapped per square meter of the Earth’s surface—carbon dioxide (which contributes 1.75 WM-2) will rank as the second-largest influence on future warming by 2050.
“Countries are making the right choice by continuing to ban CFCs and HCFCs that endanger the ozone layer globally,” stated Professor Collins.
“While this contributes to the restoration of the ozone layer, we’ve discovered that this recovery results in greater planetary warming than initially anticipated.”
“Ground-level ozone generated from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and power plants also poses health risks and exacerbates global warming.”
The results were published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics.
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WJ Collins et al. 2025. Climate forcing due to future ozone changes: Intercomparison of metrics and methods. Atmos. Chemistry. Phys 25, 9031-9060; doi: 10.5194/ACP-25-9031-2025
Thousands of years ago, ancient Homo sapiens embarked on a perilous journey, traversing the icy expanses of the Bering Straits into the uncharted territories of the Americas. Recent research indicates that these migrants may have brought with them an extraordinary gift – MUC19 genes inherited from Denisovans, which could have played a pivotal role in helping humans adapt to the challenges of their new environments.
The concept of artist Peng Denisovan walking under the bright sun during the Pleistocene of Taiwan. Image credit: Cheng-Han Sun.
The modern human genome harbors a few archaic variants that are the remnants of past interbreeding events with Neanderthals and Denisovans.
While many of these variants are neutral, certain archaic mutations found in modern humans are believed to be targets of positive natural selection, possibly essential for human adaptation as they expanded into new lands.
The populations in the Americas encountered diverse environments, creating numerous opportunities for natural selection to favor archaic variations in these new settings.
This new research, spearheaded by a team from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and Brown University, focused on a gene known as MUC19, which aids in the production of proteins that form saliva and mucosal barriers in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
The researchers found that a Denisovan variant of MUC19 exists in the DNA of modern Latin Americans with Indigenous American ancestry, as well as in individuals excavated from archaeological sites across North and South America.
The prevalence of this gene in modern human populations suggests it was under significant natural selection, indicating that it conferred survival or reproductive advantages to those who carried it.
Although the specific benefits remain unclear, given the gene’s involvement in immune processes, it may have provided an enhanced defense against pathogens encountered by early settlers in the Americas.
“From an evolutionary perspective, this discovery illustrates how ancient interbreeding can produce effects that persist today,” stated Professor Emilia Fuerta Sanchez of Brown University.
“Biologically, it identifies genes that seem to be adaptable, though their precise functions are yet to be elucidated.”
“We hope this will spur further research into the actual roles of this gene.”
Limited information exists about Denisovans, who inhabited Asia between 300,000 and 30,000 years ago, with our knowledge primarily derived from small fossils found in Denisova Cave, two jawbones discovered in Tibet and Taiwan, and an almost complete skull unearthed in China this year.
Fossils from Siberian fingers contained ancient DNA, facilitating the search for genetic similarities between Denisovans and modern humans.
Previous studies have indicated that the Denisovan-derived gene EPAS1 may have contributed to the remarkable adaptations of Sherpas and other Tibetans.
In the current study, researchers compared Denisovan DNA with the most recent genomes obtained from the 1,000 Genomes Project, a global study on genetic variations.
They found that Denisovan-derived MUC19 variants are prevalent among Latino populations with Indigenous American ancestry.
The researchers also investigated DNA from 23 individuals excavated from archaeological sites in Alaska, California, Mexico, and other parts of the Americas, finding that Denisovan-derived variants were also common in these ancient peoples.
The authors conducted several independent statistical tests demonstrating that Denisovan MUC19 genetic mutations have reached unusually high frequencies in both ancient indigenous populations and present-day indigenous peoples, indicating genes that are situated on long stretches of archaic DNA.
They also revealed that the gene likely crossed over from Denisovans to another archaic population.
“These findings reveal that past interbreeding has introduced new and potentially advantageous genetic variations into human lineages,” Professor Fuerta Sanchez remarked.
“New genetic variations typically arise through slow evolutionary processes.”
“However, these interbreeding events were a sudden means of introducing a plethora of new variations.”
“In this instance, the novel genetic reservoir seems to have aided modern humans migrating to the Americas and may have bolstered their immune systems.”
“Clearly, this gene was advantageous for these populations.”
“We hope that recognizing the significance of these genes will inspire new investigations into their functions to uncover fresh biological mechanisms, particularly relating to coding genetic variants that modify protein sequences.”
Fernando A. Villania et al. 2025 MUC19 Genes: The evolutionary history of recurrent variants and natural selection. Science 389 (6762); doi:10.1126/science.adl0882
The color of a vehicle significantly influences the surrounding temperature. Darker cars tend to absorb and emit more heat than brighter ones, especially when parked on the street or in a parking lot. The cumulative effects of countless vehicles in urban areas can substantially intensify the urban heat island effect, exacerbating heat stress for pedestrians on sunny days.
“Have you ever noticed how you feel the heat radiating when passing a parked car on a hot day?” asks Marcia Mattias from the University of Lisbon, Portugal. “It’s not just your imagination!”
Mattias and her team monitored two parked cars (one black and one white) for over five hours under direct sunlight. Their findings revealed that the black car increased local temperatures by up to 3.8°C compared to the surrounding asphalt, which was already at 36°C on a clear summer day. In contrast, the white car had a considerably lesser impact on its environment.
This variation in temperature is primarily due to the reflective properties of vehicle paint; white paint reflects 75-85% of sunlight, whereas black paint reflects only 5-10%, absorbing the majority of incoming light. The thin metal and aluminum bodies of cars heat up rapidly in strong sunlight, unlike dark asphalt, which warms at a much slower rate. “With thousands of cars occupying city spaces, each acts like a small heat source or shield,” Mattias notes. “Their colors can genuinely transform the thermal dynamics of our streets.”
Research indicates that repainting vehicles from dark to light colors can create cooler surfaces on sunny, low-wind days and lower nearby air temperatures. For instance, in the case of Lisbon, performing this change could significantly enhance the sun’s reflection off road surfaces where parked cars occupy over 10% of the area.
Alicia Burke from the University of North Carolina remarked that “utilizing light-colored vehicles as a strategy to mitigate urban heat is particularly innovative.” Previous studies have mainly focused on improving the reflectivity of roofs and pavements.
Government vehicle fleets, taxis, delivery vans, and similar transportation groups are prime candidates for color transformation, according to Mattias.
Open-pit mining at the Kennecott Copper Mine, also referred to as the Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah
Witold Skrypczak/Alamy
The leftover ore discarded by the rice mines is rich in vital minerals. This resource is sufficient to furnish all the necessary components for clean energy technologies. By reclaiming a portion of these minerals, we can satisfy the country’s rising demand for green energy without relying on imports or creating new environmentally-friendly mines, although the process of extraction poses its own challenges.
“We must enhance our utilization of mining resources,” states Elizabeth Holly from the Colorado School of Mines.
Traditionally, most individual mines concentrate on extracting a limited range of minerals, such as copper and gold. This involves excavating and grinding the ore, followed by separating the primary product through various metallurgical processes. Ultimately, the residue is discarded as tailings. “It’s pointless to mine if we’re not utilizing all the resources,” says Holly.
These byproducts often contain additional valuable materials, including many crucial minerals identified by the US government as essential for military and energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. However, certain supply chains for these minerals are controlled by China, raising urgent concerns for the US and its allies, prompting a search for alternative mineral sources, including mining byproducts and tailings.
Yet, many mining operations lack a clear understanding of what they are discarding. “Numerous minerals that are now deemed critical were seldom employed in the past, so they weren’t analyzed for recovery,” remarks Holly.
Holly and her colleagues examined thousands of ore samples and production data from mines across the US. They utilized this information to project the quantity of additional minerals that could be retrieved from 54 active hard rock metal mines should new purification steps be implemented.
In some cases, it was found that only 1% of the minerals contained in mining byproducts were recoverable. Other minerals necessitated recovery rates in the 10-90% range to replace imports. Additionally, certain metals, such as gold, platinum, and palladium, still require imports, even though 100% recovery is achievable from byproducts.
These findings imply that the US could fulfill the growing demand for critical minerals without the need for new mines, according to Holly. This strategy would help secure a stable supply chain and mitigate the environmental impacts of mining. “It makes more sense to optimize what we’re already mining,” she asserts.
According to Brian McNulty from the University of British Columbia in Canada, this presents “a significant opportunity,” although further research is required to transform estimates of mineral amounts into actual recoverable quantities. “We hope to not only engage government but also industry, encouraging a more thorough assessment of our mining practices,” he comments.
Identifying the whereabouts of these minerals isn’t the only challenge. Current purification technologies do not cater well to these small, complicated waste streams, and deploying the necessary technology is prohibitively expensive for many US mines. Megan O’Connor, from NTH Cycle, which specializes in extracting vital minerals from unconventional sources, highlights this issue.
Mines may also hesitate to invest in new mineral extraction methods when future demand remains uncertain. Whether concerning electric vehicle batteries or solar panels, “technological advancements occur significantly faster than changes in mining practices,” notes McNulty.
Despite skepticism regarding renewable energy, the Trump administration prioritized US mineral production as a key aspect of its agenda. Recently, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced nearly $1 billion in funding for unconventional mining initiatives, including $250 million aimed at mineral recovery from mining byproducts.
A spokesperson from the DOE asserts that the tailings at these mines represent “a significant opportunity within the nation” and could assist the United States in diversifying its sources of critical minerals and materials.
Nonetheless, this does not diminish support for new mines, as stated by the agency’s executive director, P. Wells Griffith III, during a DOE strategy workshop on August 20th. “We should never apologize for modern lifestyles and our abundant natural resources,” he affirmed.
WASHINGTON – On Thursday, the Supreme Court extended the Trump administration’s substantial reductions to the National Health Grants, part of the federal government’s initiative on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
However, in this intricate ruling, the court upheld another aspect of a lower court’s decision that discarded the administration’s guidance documents related to the policy, raising doubts about its viability going forward.
An emergency request by an administrator aiming to pause the Massachusetts federal judge’s ruling was partially granted, resulting in a 5-4 vote.
While the court did not extensively elaborate on its reasoning, the majority suggested that groups contesting the funding cuts would need to initiate a new lawsuit in a different federal court, specifically the Federal Court of Claims.
The decisive vote came from conservative Judge Amy Coney Barrett. All four conservative justices supported the Trump administration’s application, indicating that the other four justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and three liberal justices, would have completely denied it.
Barrett stated in a concurring opinion, “As today’s order indicates, district courts likely lack jurisdiction to address the funding challenges that pertain to the federal claims court.” She added, “The government is not entitled to a stay of judgment as long as it possesses valid guidance documents.”
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a collection of agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services, receiving billions of dollars from Congress for medical research funding at universities, hospitals, and various institutions.
When President Donald Trump assumed office in January, he asserted that what is termed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) constituted discrimination mainly against white individuals, rather than fostering equality as intended. He also championed policies recognizing transgender rights, including access to gender transition care.
Subsequently, the NIH conducted a review of grants and concluded that over 1,700 were inconsistent with Trump’s directives, resulting in their termination, which included programs related to teenage HIV prevention and gender identity studies.
Massachusetts, along with 16 states represented by the American Public Health Association, has contested this action.
After the trial, District Judge William Young of Massachusetts ruled that the government had not adhered to the proper legal protocols while enacting the policy, violating the Administrative Procedure Act.
In haste to execute Trump’s agenda, the NIH “failed to comply with legal requirements,” Young noted.
He characterized DEI as an “undefined enemy,” stating that government attorneys could not adequately clarify its meaning.
Young found evidence of “prevailing racism” and “widespread discrimination” against gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals in how grants were awarded. Furthermore, he identified “a distinct pattern of discrimination against women’s health issues.”
He declined to stay his ruling, a decision mirrored by the Boston-based First Circuit Court of Appeals.
Attorney General John Sauer requested the Supreme Court to intervene on behalf of the Trump administration, likening the situation to another incident in Massachusetts where the Trump administration obstructed plans to eliminate teacher training grants based on anti-DEI grounds.
The Supreme Court had blocked this earlier ruling in April with a 5-4 vote.
Sauer asserted, “This application presents a particularly clear case where this court must intervene to prevent the district court from disregarding this court’s previous decision.”
The state’s attorney countered Sauer’s assertion, stating it “bears little resemblance to reality.”
The judge deliberated Thursday on whether the April ruling impacted the latest case’s outcome.
In a brief opinion, Roberts, who had contested the previous case, asserted that Young’s findings fell within the permissible scope of district court jurisdiction.
However, conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch criticized Young in a separate opinion for failing to comply with the April ruling.
“While lower court judges may oppose this court’s ruling, they are never free to disregard it,” he wrote.
The Trump administration frequently relied on the Supreme Court when facing judicial challenges to its enforcement actions, generally securing favorable outcomes. Trump and his supporters have also aggressively criticized judges who opposed him.
Driverless taxis, which have disrupted industries in various US and Chinese cities, are now on their way to London.
As a cyclist, Londoner, and journalist who has closely observed AI developments, I find myself somewhat anxious. Yet, considering the frequent encounters with careless human drivers in London, part of me feels cautiously hopeful.
Ultimately, the question arises: is it preferable to navigate the roads among tired, distracted, and irate humans, or to coexist with potentially erratic AI?
The UK government has affirmed plans for companies like Uber to launch pilot programs featuring self-driving “taxi and bus-like” services in 2026. Following that, in the latter half of 2027, automated vehicle legislation is expected to take effect, establishing a formal legal framework for the industry. Crucially, this law places accountability for accidents on the automakers rather than local residents.
Officials advocate that unmanned vehicles could enhance road safety, given that human error is responsible for 88% of all traffic accidents. The statistics are staggering: London highways reported 130 fatalities last year, which included 66 pedestrians and 10 cyclists. Globally, 1.2 million individuals die in traffic incidents annually.
As someone who cycles often in London, I have firsthand experience with the challenges posed by reckless driving. I’ve witnessed drivers engaging in a variety of distractions, from eating breakfast to watching movies. I have been rear-ended at red lights at least four times. While it is commonly said that AI lacks creativity, humans have certainly mastered the art of poor driving.
In contrast, AI isn’t swayed by distractions such as text messages, alcohol, or fatigue. With numerous sensors, machines lack blind spots and always check their surroundings before making a turn.
Admittedly, there have been alarming reports of autonomous vehicles failing to stop and causing harm to pedestrians. These incidents garner significant media attention. However, considering the numerous fatalities attributed to human drivers, the statistics of road deaths paint a less sensational picture. In the UK, more than four people die daily in traffic accidents.
The safety concerns surrounding autonomous vehicles are complex. While I believe that every road fatality is unacceptable, there exists a compelling argument that if AI can travel the same distance with fewer casualties, it shouldn’t be demonized in the pursuit of progress.
“
I have doubts about whether self-driving cars can differentiate pedestrians from shadows. “
Research indicates that driverless cars often outperform human-driven vehicles in terms of safety, although this advantage may not consistently hold in urban environments, particularly under poor lighting or during complex maneuvers.
These vehicles depend on technology companies to ensure their safety, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest relating to profit versus safety. We have already seen concerning suggestions to equip pedestrians with electronic sensors to enhance their visibility to these machines.
When it comes to cyclists, can tech companies ensure they maintain a 1.5-meter buffer when a robocar passes, or will they simply prioritize not hitting cyclists? The latter might streamline urban travel times, but could pose risks to vulnerable cyclists. Furthermore, to what extent will autonomous vehicles pause to allow pedestrians to fully cross the street, or will they encourage hurried crossings? These parameters can be influenced, and there are inevitably tensions between safety and travel efficiency.
Even if a company aims to act benevolently, AI systems are inherently unpredictable. Just as chatbots can suggest erroneous ingredients, self-driving cars cannot guarantee they won’t misinterpret a pedestrian as a shadow. It’s an unsettling truth.
Personally, I harbor reservations about AI operating vehicles in my vicinity, just as I do about human drivers. However, while human capabilities can improve with time and effort, AI has the potential for rapid advancement. The roll-out of automated taxis in London could provide invaluable data that enhances the safety of our roads. Ultimately, if given a choice, I would prefer an AI driver.
Nevertheless, the stark reality remains: a few tons of steel on four wheels—combined with high-tech systems—will never constitute a wholly safe or efficient urban transport solution. Self-driving taxis may mirror today’s human-operated models, ultimately not resolving London’s transport challenges.
Electric bikes and dedicated cycle lanes are environmentally friendly and often more efficient for city travel, while buses can accommodate multiple passengers, utilizing the space of two SUVs. However, such solutions may not yield substantial profits for big tech companies, will they?
Matt Week
What I’m reading
How music works by Talking Heads frontman David Byrne.
What I’m seeing
Horror movies I’ll bring her back (It’s true, through the hands that cover their eyes at the moment).
What I’m working on
Next spring, I plan to plant various cuttings in my garden to fill empty spaces.
Matt Sparkes is a technology reporter for New Scientist
Artwork in Geneva, Switzerland. Recently, a lecture on the Global Plastics Convention was conducted.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images
On August 14, a weary UN representative walked into the main venue after long discussions and little sleep, witnessing the fading hopes for a global treaty on plastic pollution.
The two-week conference in Geneva, Switzerland, marked his second attempt to create international regulations to tackle this pressing issue.
However, just before a resolution, disagreements emerged over whether the treaty should contain provisions for boosting recycling rates, as well as targets to decrease plastic production at its source.
Oil Production Status – As demand for gasoline and diesel diminishes, the reliance on the plastics industry for revenue complicates efforts to reduce production.
The treaty required unanimous consent to be enacted, but some states stood firm on their “red lines,” leading to a breakdown in talks.
Does this scenario ring a bell? The Environmental Summit often experiences the collapse of protracted negotiations, lengthy discussions, and debates. Even when agreements are reached, consultations typically yield minimal concrete outcomes, a pattern seen during the 2023 COP28 Summit in Dubai.
A significant challenge lies in the longstanding expectation of unanimous agreement, as noted by Robert Faulkner from the London School of Economics. He explains that the United Nations has initiated discussions related to climate change and biodiversity, which requires consensus from hundreds of countries with diverse economic and political contexts.
“The consensus approach in international environmental negotiations has consistently been the Achilles’ heel of the United Nations’ environmental efforts,” states Faulkner. “This often results in compromises that reflect the lowest common denominator.”
Activists and strategists are growing weary from a series of stagnant climate summits, with slowed progress in efforts to halt biodiversity loss. In light of the recent crisis in Geneva, there’s increasing skepticism regarding the environmental diplomatic process.
“Why do we believe that environmental challenges can only be addressed through multilateralism and consensus among over 190 countries? That approach seems ineffective,” says Simon Sharp, a former British diplomat and author of Five Times Faster: Rethinking the Science, Economics, and Diplomacy of Climate Change.
More activists and strategists are seeking alternative strategies. Sharp, who played a role in organizing the COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow, UK, emphasizes the need to prioritize action over targets and to rally influential countries to expedite decarbonization by sector. “If you want meaningful change, you must take action,” he asserts.
Eirik Lindebjerg, from the WWF Campaign Group, echoes a similar sentiment in Norway. “If 100 countries agree to implement measures to phase out fossil fuel vehicles, even without participation from other nations, it can still yield significant climate benefits,” he argues. “To me, there is a compelling case to move beyond the consensus mindset.”
This approach draws inspiration from positive “turning points” aimed at steering the world toward rapid decarbonization in various sectors, such as transportation and electricity.
Tim Renton, an author and academic at the University of Exeter, UK, argues in his upcoming book Positive Turning Points: How to Fix the Climate Crisis that collaboration among smaller groups of countries could prove more effective than relying solely on consensus-based negotiations.
“The essence of a tipping point is that a minority can ultimately sway the majority,” he explains. “Thus, it is illogical to restrict progress by demanding universal agreement before any actions are taken.”
Of course, this strategy hinges on engaging the most influential countries (those with economies capable of pushing these turning points). Given the unpredictability of US leadership under Donald Trump, this remains uncertain.
Yet, there are indications that this way of thinking is gaining traction within diplomatic circles. For instance, the Brazilian hosts of the forthcoming COP30 Climate Summit are contemplating a reorganization of frameworks that could enable the new UN Council for Climate Change to enact majority votes and facilitate direct, sector-specific collaboration among nations. Simultaneously, many observers are viewing China’s increasing engagement in climate matters as an opportunity for them to take a leadership role on specific issues like renewable energy and electric vehicles.
When progress in environmental policy is predominantly driven by small groups of nations, one must question the relevance of large agreements like climate summits. Events of this nature can aid in “norm-setting,” remarks Sharp, facilitating recognition of ongoing transitions, such as the global shift away from coal reliance. However, they shouldn’t be expected to lead the charge for change, he cautions.
There is no denying that decades-long efforts have been instrumental in fostering international consensus on environmental strategies. Nevertheless, consensus-driven negotiations can move at the pace of the slowest participants in the dialogue. As the world confronts a multifaceted crisis involving climate change, biodiversity, and pollution, it may be time to reconsider such an approach.
Feedback offers the latest news in science and technology from New Scientist, highlighting the newest developments. Feel free to email Feedback@newscientist.com with items that would intrigue our readers.
On the Way Out
Cat-themed automatons were bound to happen, considering that the Internet is roughly 60% cats and 35% bots.
Thus, @pepitothecat, a black cat with a Twitter account known as Pepito, has caught attention. Residing in France with his owner, engineer Clément Storck, Pepito’s X account operates with a system that auto-posts whenever he enters or leaves via the cat flap.
The tweets, while seemingly mundane, say either “Pepito is not outside” or “Pepito is back home,” all timestamped to the nearest second and accompanied by monochrome photos and short videos of Pepito’s comings and goings.
Surprisingly, @PepitotheCat boasts over 860,000 followers, a notable number of whom are based in Brazil. In June 2017, Pepito went missing for 22 hours, causing a widespread stir.The impact on Brazil was significant. Interestingly, Storck had to write a post as Pepito returned through the “human door,” which wasn’t registered in the system.
Feedback would like to mention: 22 hours? That’s quite tame. One cat featured in Feedback often goes missing for a day or so, and a former cat disappeared for six weeks, only to be discovered just a few hundred meters from her usual spot.
Pepito is resilient; the account has been active for 14 years, and Pepito will turn 18 in September. Although he may seem like just another cat, recent news about Pepito’s owners selling has thrust the account into more controversial discussions, including Pepito-themed cryptocurrencies. After all, who doesn’t love cats?
I’m on Track
Feedback finds resonance with enthusiasts spending their allowances on Hornby model trains, even if we aren’t deeply involved in the hobby ourselves. Recently, we were excited (at the time of writing) when Alan Edgar noted a press release from Northern Rail, one of the UK’s privatized railway companies. In November 2024, the company introduced a new Commercial and Customer Director, one Alex Hornby, who has an impressive track record, as quoted by the managing director.
In our naming discussions, Ian Gammy came across a 2019 report assessing the greenhouse gas emissions attributed to the US military. It turns out, “The US military is among the largest historical climate polluters, consuming more liquid fuel and emitting more CO2 than most countries.” This underscores a stark contrast to the lack of such writings from American scholars, as highlighted by British researchers. Ian appreciated that the report’s authors included Patrick Big and Oliver Belcher.
You Just Lost
In March, Feedback explored Roko’s Basilisk, a rather bizarre thought experiment centered on artificial intelligence. Hypothetically, if an omnipotent AI were to exist, it might create simulations of individuals living today, raising a lot of confusion.
Our colleague Jacob Aron recently reviewed Matt Wixie’s novel Basilisk, which prompted reader Finn Byrne to delve into the concept of “cognitive hazard.” This notion implies that possessing certain knowledge may be perilous, especially regarding Roko’s Basilisk, which suggests that knowing about future AI may lead to eternal torment for those who refuse to aid its existence.
Unfortunately, events turned sour. When Finn reviewed the Wikipedia page on Cognitive Hazard, he “lost the game.” After he alerted us about it, we found ourselves losing as well. So now you’ve lost too.
As Finn describes, this game is simple: “1) you’re playing a game. 2) you lose every time you think about the game. 3) you must announce your loss.” Naturally, there’s a website dedicated to it: losethegame.net.
This game took up lots of time when we were students, often resurfacing during outings or in conversations, where a friend would suddenly declare they’ve lost. It had slipped our minds until now, but we’re back in its grip.
Finn continues to outline strategies. Winning appears impossible unless one achieves permanent amnesia or exits life prematurely, both of which seem extreme. However, you can certainly ensure others lose. “This website includes sections where enthusiastic players donate to worthy causes in light of ‘losing the game.’ If you prefer not to spend money, you might leave covert notes in strategic spots.
Lastly, there’s the award for publicizing the game widely. Finn notes these accolades often go to “individuals who mention the game in publications.”
Have you written to Feedback?
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In 2024, 2.6 billion people (nearly a third of the global population) were still offline, as reported by The International Telecommunication Union (ITU). That same year, Freedom House estimated that over three-quarters of those with internet access live in countries where individuals have been arrested for sharing political, social, or religious content online, with nearly two-thirds of global internet users experiencing some form of online censorship.
The accessibility and quality of internet connections significantly impact how individuals lead their lives, a fact that deserves serious consideration. Having free and unobstructed internet access is no longer merely a luxury.
Human rights ensure a baseline of decent living conditions, as established by the UN General Assembly in the 1948 Declaration. In today’s digital landscape, the exercise of these rights—ranging from free speech to access to primary education—depends heavily on internet connectivity. For instance, many essential public services are transitioning online, and in several areas, digital services are the most viable alternatives to the absence of physical banks, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
Given the critical significance of internet access today, it must be officially recognized as a standalone human right by the United Nations and national governments. Such recognition would provide legal backing and obligations for international support that are often missing at the state level.
The ITU projects that achieving universal broadband coverage by 2030 will require an investment of nearly $428 billion. While this is a substantial sum, the benefits of connecting the remaining portion of humanity—enhanced education, economic activity, and health outcomes—far outweigh the costs.
Ensuring a minimum standard of connectivity is already an attainable goal. This includes providing 4G mobile broadband coverage, consistent access to smartphones, and affordable data plans for individuals that cost less than 2% of the average national income for 2GB per person, along with opportunities to develop essential digital skills.
However, having internet access alone is not sufficient for upholding human rights. As highlighted by the United Nations, misuse of technology for monitoring populations, gathering personal data for profit maximization, or spreading misinformation constitutes oppression rather than empowerment.
This right entails that states should respect users’ privacy, opposing censorship and the manipulation of information online. Businesses should prioritize human rights, especially users’ privacy, and actively combat misinformation and abuse on their platforms in line with regulations governing social media.
In 2016, the United Nations affirmed that people must be protected online just as they are offline. This concept was first suggested in 2003.
The time to act is now. Advocating for universal internet access as a human right calls for political action. We cannot afford to see the internet degrade from a tool for human advancement to one of division. Establishing this right will be a powerful measure to ensure that the internet serves the interests of all, not just a select few.
Could there be hidden planets in our solar system?
Peter Jurik/Alamy
At the far reaches of our solar system, there could be a new Earth-sized planet, referred to as Planet Y.
Astronomers have speculated for a long time about the existence of concealed planets past the Kuiper Belt, which is populated with frozen bodies, including UTO. Notable theories have included Planet X, a compelling candidate believed to be approximately seven times the mass of Earth and orbiting about 50 times the distance from the Sun, alongside at least 300 other solar masses.
Amir Shiraj from Princeton University and his team suggest the existence of Planet Y, distinct from other candidates, based on the warping observed in the orbits of some Kuiper Belt objects. “If that warp is confirmed, the simplest explanation is an undiscovered planet with a tilt,” Shiraj explains.
This hypothetical planet could have a mass comparable to that of Mercury or Earth and might orbit roughly 100-200 times the distance of genomic syndrome. The gravitational influence of this planet could cause certain Kuiper Belt objects to have orbits that are slightly inclined, mimicking the rippling effect in a body of water.
“The signals we’re detecting are subtle but trustworthy,” Shiraj remarks. “Previous hints of Planet Nine shared similar statistical probabilities.”
The orbital distortion conjectured for Planet Y differs from the rationale behind the potential existence of Planet Nine, which is thought to attract objects with its gravity. “The signatures indicate a different source,” Shiraj adds.
Johnty Horner at the University of South Queensland believes it is “plausible” that an unseen realm, like Planet Y, exists in the outer solar system. “It’s a reminder that we are still exploring what lies beyond Neptune; our understanding is still in its infancy,” he states.
Such a planet might have been ejected from the inner solar system to the outer reaches. “Scattering appears more likely,” Horner suggests.
With the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s decade-long survey of the skies, our perception of the outer solar system is expected to transform significantly in the coming years. Should Planet Y, Planet Nine, or other candidates exist, Rubin may directly observe them.
“Rubin is rapidly expanding our catalog of well-studied trans-Neptunian objects,” remarks Shiraj. If Planet Y is indeed lurking out there, Rubin might identify it “within the initial years of the survey,” Shiraj adds, or at least provide further evidence of the observed warping effect.
Language remains one of the few attributes regarded as uniquely human. While animals like chimpanzees and songbirds exhibit advanced communication systems, they do not convey meaning on the same scale as humans. So, what prompted our ancestors to develop language?
Madeleine Beekman, an evolutionary biologist with a focus on insects, particularly honeybees, presents an engaging explanation in her first book aimed at general audiences regarding the evolution of human language.
Her hypothesis suggests that language emerged as a necessity to meet the challenges of parenting. In comparison to other mammals, human infants are quite helpless at birth and need around-the-clock care.
Echoing decades of paleontological research, Beekman links the vulnerable state of infants to two factors: a larger brain and a narrower pelvis. “As our bodies adapted for bipedalism, our hips narrowed,” she notes. As a result, our brains grew larger. “A big-headed baby and a mother with a narrow pelvis don’t work well together,” Beekman elaborates.
To circumvent this “obstetric dilemma,” infants are born at an earlier stage, leading to the situation where their heads are too large for a narrow birth canal. This adaptation allows for safer childbirth but necessitates extended care for the fragile young.
Thus far, the narrative is familiar. Beekman’s significant leap is to propose that the requirements of caring for human offspring spurred the development of complex languages. “Caring for human babies is incredibly challenging, leading evolution to craft entirely new tools to assist with this effort,” she asserts, “the design flaws that initiated the issue ultimately offered a solution.” While our brains made childbirth more complicated, we simultaneously developed our capacity for a richer, more flexible language.
In presenting this idea, Beekman navigates a bustling marketplace of theories on language evolution. Various hypotheses exist; some contend that language arose alongside toolmaking, where the development of advanced tools required more descriptive language for instruction. Others suggest language served as a means of social distinction, encompassing clever wordplay and insults. Additionally, it may have initially been a cognitive tool, primarily for individual thought before evolving to facilitate communication with others.
One intriguing element of Beekman’s theory is her emphasis on the roles of women and children. Science has historically leaned towards male-centered viewpoints, often overshadowing the significant evolutionary shifts linked to pregnancy (e.g., the “Hunter” model).
“
The authors contend that language is around 100,000 years old and unique to our species. “
It’s essential to reflect on the contributions of women and children in the story of language’s origins. However, this doesn’t necessarily affirm Beekman’s thesis. She presents compelling evidence, notably showing that many large birds, including parrots and New Caledonian crows, produce underdeveloped offspring. Why? A 2023 study indicated that the primary predictor of avian brain size was the degree of parental care.
All of this resonates with Beekman’s narrative. Yet, the most pressing question remains: timing. Humans have been walking on two legs for at least 6 million years, and our brains have expanded rapidly for the last 2 million years. Given this extensive timeline, when did language actually develop?
Beekman posits that modern language is roughly 100,000 years old and specific to our species. She references 2020 research pinpointing “unique gene regulatory networks that shape the anatomy crucial for precise word production.” These networks appear to exist solely in our species, indicating that other human relatives, like Neanderthals, may not have possessed the same linguistic capabilities.
Beekman considers this “conclusive,” yet other scholars have unearthed evidence that suggests the possibility of complex language in other human species. The evolution surrounding human childbirth remains as intertwined as it is uncertain. In summary, robust ideas necessitate further proof.
Michael Marshall is a writer based in Devon, UK
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Edible microbeads can absorb fat in the intestines
Vacharapong Wongsalab/Getty Images
Researchers are developing edible microbeads that can absorb fat, aiding weight loss. These beads may one day be introduced into foods and beverages to help manage or prevent obesity.
Despite ongoing efforts to address obesity, global rates continue to rise. While new weight loss medications like Wegovy and Zepbound have emerged, their high cost and potential side effects highlight the need for alternative solutions.
In this context, Yuu and her team from Sichuan University in China have crafted edible microbeads that capture fat before it’s absorbed by the body. These beads are composed of vitamin E and green tea compounds, coated with alginate, a seaweed-derived fiber. All components are food-safe and approved by the US FDA.
When these beads are ingested, the alginate layer expands in the stomach, allowing partially digested fats in the intestines to enter the beads and bind with their compounds. The beads, along with the captured fat, are then expelled during defecation.
In experiments, rats on a 60% fat diet consuming the microbeads lost an average of 17% of their body weight after 30 days. In contrast, a comparable group fed the same high-fat diet without beads showed no weight loss, and another group on a reduced-fat diet also did not lose weight. The microbeads-treated rats exhibited less fatty tissue and reduced liver damage.
Further analysis of the feces from rats given microbeads revealed fat content comparable to that of the group treated with Orlistat, a weight loss drug that blocks fat absorption. This suggests that the microbeads effectively inhibit visceral fat uptake without the gastrointestinal side effects associated with Orlistat.
“One reason [Orlistat] hasn’t gained much popularity is due to the difficulty in managing bowel movements,” notes Thunder Kirsten from Cornell University. Thus, these edible microbeads may present a viable alternative to pharmaceutical therapies, although human trials are still necessary.
A clinical trial with 26 participants is already in progress. “We anticipate preliminary results within the next year,” Wu remarked during a press release at the American Chemical Society Conference on August 21.
One concern raised is that these microbeads may interfere with the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins. Additionally, it’s unclear how palatable they will be to consumers. Similar strategies using synthetic indigestible fats called olestra were attempted in the late 1990s and early 2000s but failed to gain traction due to poor sales, leading to their withdrawal about a decade ago.
Researchers aim to create virtually flavorless beads that can be shaped like tapioca or boba, making them suitable for desserts and bubble tea. “We want to design something that fits seamlessly into people’s eating habits and lifestyles,” Wu stated.
Before entering the MRI scanner, Emily Weldon practiced moving a lost finger from her amputated arm, accompanied by a researcher.
Tamar Makin/Hunter Schone
Research suggests our brains may not reconfigure as much as previously believed following an amputation.
The somatosensory cortex, which processes sensory data like touch and temperature from the entire body, has been shown in various studies to have distinct regions mapped to different body parts. For instance, the sensation of burning your hands might activate regions corresponding to your toes.
There is evidence indicating that when a nerve is severed, the somatosensory cortex may reorganize. A study observing macaques with severed arm nerves revealed that neurons typically responding to hand stimuli were instead active when the face was touched. The researchers inferred that some cortical areas initially linked to the hands were repurposed to respond to facial sensations.
However, a team led by Tamar Makin from Cambridge University conducted a groundbreaking comparison of brain activity in individuals before and after amputation, revealing minimal changes.
Using MRI, researchers scanned the brains of three participants prior to their medically necessary arm amputations. During the scans, they were instructed to pucker their lips and attempt to move their fingers.
Interestingly, even after numerous attempts to willfully move fingers they no longer possessed, the brain signals remained unchanged. “To the best of our measurement, they remain the same,” Makin noted.
Long-term follow-ups on two participants, 18 months and 5 years post-surgery, indicated no significant alterations in brain signals since the initial scans.
The researchers utilized an AI model that was trained to correlate brain activity with specific finger movements. When participants imagined moving their fingers in a random sequence, the model accurately identified which finger they were trying to move, demonstrating consistent neural activity.
In another experiment segment, somatosensory cortical activity was assessed in 26 individuals, average 23 years post-amputation, during attempts to move their lips and fingers. The findings showed comparable activity levels.
“This study decisively challenges the notion that the brain can easily remap, rewire, or reorganize as initially thought,” remarked John Krakauer from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland.
The implications of these findings could significantly affect treatments for phantom limb pain, a common condition where amputees experience discomfort in limbs that are no longer present.
Some therapeutic approaches utilize virtual reality and visual stimuli to prompt brain reorganization, yet results have varied, sometimes influenced by placebo effects, according to Makin.
Researchers suggest that innovative methods, such as implanting nerves into new tissues during amputation, might help mitigate this condition. If remaining nerves are left unconnected, they can thicken, potentially contributing to phantom limb pain.
“The previous maladaptive plasticity theory regarding phantom pain relied on the belief that reorganization was possible, which now seems incorrect,” stated Krakauer. “This fundamentally alters our approach to treating phantom limb pain since its underlying theory has been disproven.”
In August, Paris typically quiets down as many residents scatter across the beaches and shores for their monthly vacation. Businesses close, and the city comes almost to a halt. Among those who stay are the eternal seekers of Paris: on a quest to find a sunlit terrace for their evening Aperitif.
Securing the ideal spot on the sidewalk outside a cafe can often depend on a timely walk or a quick message from friends. This summer, however, digital solutions gained traction with the quintessentially French take on the old Apple motto: “There’s an app for that.” Jveuxdusoleil is an app that tracks the sun’s movement through the city’s maze, pinpointing exactly where you can snag a sunny seat on your cafe terrace. This innovation arrives at a time of particular uncertainty in Paris.
Jean-Charles Levenne, who taught app development in 2020, created Jveuxdusoleil (“I Want Sun”) as a side project to address personal challenges.
Using a solar position algorithm alongside building height data from the open-source mapping platform OpenStreetMap, Levenne’s app highlights sunny terraces while dimming those in shadow. Users can update the app for new spots or corrections (e.g., trees casting unexpected shadows), thus turning it into a continually evolving and community-driven tool. While the technology is applicable in other cities, most of the app’s terraces are in Paris, which Levenne believes makes it particularly beneficial.
“The app functions globally, but initially focused on Paris due to its unique challenges compared to other French cities,” he remarked. “Finding a sunny spot can be tricky because of the narrow streets and towering buildings.”
The terrace acts as a vantage point to take in the essence of Paris. Chairs are typically arranged facing the street rather than each other, allowing patrons to observe the bustling world around them. The absence of a strong tipping culture in France reduces the urgency for quick table turnover, allowing customers to savor just a drink and linger for hours. For many Parisians, the terrace becomes a second living room.
Pierric Bourgot, a photographer and journalist with about 20 published books, has created a documentary on French bistro culture, emphasizing that the Paris terrace offers one of the city’s most authentic perspectives.
“The terrace embodies a specific concept of Art de Vivre (the Art of Living), as we say in France; it’s a space where diverse groups gather,” Bourgot explained. “You’re not enclosed; you’re somewhat in the street, one foot inside and one foot outside. You’re immersed in the city and the vibrancy of life.”
Searching for the sun after the darkest winter in decades
Jveuxdusoleil’s user base has consistently grown since its launch, now boasting over 1,300 active users weekly, and that number was mirrored during interviews with Levenne. Usage spikes in spring, as Parisians yearn for sunlight after enduring months of a dreary winter.
This year, Jveuxdusoleil experienced a surge, reaching nearly 20,000 visitors in a single week in early March, following a grim 2024 winter, which was noted as the darkest in three decades. Paris, in particular, struggled with multiple stretches of days without sunlight. Jveuxdusoleil remains a passion project for Levenne, who has not profited from it and says, “Actually, it costs money to maintain a server.”
The Parisian photographer I spoke with remarked that the intricate nature of Jveuxdusoleil is part of its charm—using the app to locate a sunny street for a photo while enjoying a drink with friends. Its functionality is streamlined, featuring a single slider to set the time and sunlight, positioning it as an accessible app for everyone.
Can an app revive the declining terrasse culture?
While the user base of Jveuxdusoleil isn’t universally widespread, many young French individuals I encountered on the terraces of Paris had not heard of the app. Yet its existence represents a digital embrace of French bistro culture at a pivotal moment.
According to French Heritage Inventory documents filed in May 2024, the number of French bistros has decreased from 500,000 in 1900 to fewer than 40,000 today. The document notes that Paris has seen a drop from 5,000-6,000 bistros in the 1970s and 1980s to just over 1,000 currently. The Alliance of French Bistro Owners has successfully sought national recognition in September 2024, and has been campaigning since 2018 for UNESCO World Heritage status.
Bourgault attributes this “genocide” to the significant reduction in French bistro density over the past century, faced with relentless threats—exemplified by the shift from 100 bistros per 100,000 people to just 1 per 2,000. The proliferation of cars and highways has redirected traffic away from such venues nationwide, while television, smartphones, and digital communication have lessened the need for socializing on local terraces. Additionally, bistro owners cite globalization and changing consumer preferences as threats to bistro culture.
A law passed in 1941 prohibited the establishment of new cafes, allowing the acquisition of existing licenses only. This stagnation has rendered these establishments particularly vulnerable, especially in Paris, where property prices have surged. French commentators have long decried the “Americanization of Paris,” noting that traditional bistros are increasingly overshadowed by the rapid expansion of McDonald’s and other chain restaurants as habitual meeting spots for many young people.
Pierric noted that technological advances have also played a role in the decline of bistros. People now order deliveries via their phones and when they do venture out, they frequently stay glued to their devices instead of engaging with strangers at the comptoir. He pointed out that the app could actually revitalize Parisian bistro culture.
“Its geographical visualization grounds you in the real world, emphasizing that we are here on Earth,” he stated.
“When encountering friends at the bistro for drinks, we don’t meet in the ether. We gather in a cafe rich with personality, character, and decor. What’s more, we are aware that we are not just two AIs exchanging data protocols. We engage face to face, and it feels undeniably real.”
The demonstration opens with the success of lawyer Kuiri, who has just presented an argument in court advocating for the rivers of a fictional Indian city, Mujiris, to possess the same rights as individuals. Kuyili cites legal precedents, noting that businesses can represent themselves in court just as people do.
The thrill of this landmark triumph is short-lived, as a massive oil spill contaminates the river, igniting flames and releasing toxic smoke that engulfs nearby areas. Realizing the catastrophic impact of such pollution, Kuyili and her team embark on an investigation.
Everything Ascends is fundamentally a deck-building game centered around oral debates. To equip for crucial discussions, we initially dispatch Kuyili and her colleagues to gather insights from community members. These excursions will yield your game cards. Claim cards evoke different emotions, each holding varying credibility depending on the gathered information. For instance, if you assert that a company’s illegal waste disposal causes river pollution, you can challenge the other party; yet, if this claim lacks supporting evidence, it may be dismissed.
Initially, there’s much to grasp, but card-based interactions showcase the multitude of directions conversations can take. The Developer Speculation Agency draws inspiration from courtroom comedies like ACE Lawyers, where exclamations like “Object!” resonate! Achieving your aim is not always guaranteed here.
“Engaging in conversations involves partnering with others,” remarks Niels Monshower, co-founder and producer of the Speculative Agency. “In Dutch, we use the term gesprekspartner, which means conversation partner, emphasizing shared dialogue.”
Throughout conversations and information collection, characters expend emotional energy. This energy relies on what they can draw upon to either engage in behavioral actions or simply stay informed. “Observing the world around us brings about shared pain,” states story director Megna Jayance. “Every interaction, however, can instill feelings of empowerment, strength, and joy. Many people strive to make a difference. Don’t isolate yourself. Organize and collaborate. That’s where strength lies.”
Everything Rises isn’t confined to India. Each chapter illuminates environmental challenges in different global regions and highlights local resistance efforts. “We haven’t finalized our choices yet, but we’re considering Puerto Rico, the Netherlands, and possibly Nigeria,” shares Monshower. “The initial focus is on pollution, corporate exploitation, and corruption in local governance. Additionally, we are exploring themes like biodiversity loss, climate change, and seabed destruction due to mining.”
The Speculation Agency is preparing a Kickstarter campaign to fund the game, aiming to include countries where the developers reside. A significant influence for the studio is Joost Vervoort, an associate professor at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, who specializes in the intersection of gaming and sustainability. Vervoort’s Research Group Anticiplay has already examined how to integrate climate crisis themes into the game, aiming to empower players with factual insights about climate activity.
The team identified considerable room for improvement in how games address real-world issues. “In our initial discussions, we noted two primary categories of games tackling climate change, pollution, or social disruptions: Green God Games and Toxic Wasteland Games,” notes Monshower.
“Toxic Wasteland Games depict an inevitable collapse as the backdrop, conveying a message of despair. Green God Games place you in the role of an all-powerful entity deciding where to position the magical machine that cleans the pollution. Hero.”
Tackling such heavy themes can be challenging, but Jayance insists that the game is fundamentally enjoyable. The team even described it as “improperly joyous.” “It’s easy to argue that feeling joy in today’s world is inappropriate,” explains Jayance, who has leveraged his position in the gaming sector for advocacy. “Yet, Joy Powers Transformation. Likewise, anger is a prevalent emotion in the game. However, as a team, we believe that hope is the most constructive political reaction to the challenges we face.”
Ultimately, Everything Rises aims to demonstrate that it’s never too late to engage in activism, despite the formidable challenges that may arise. “Our ideal outcome for the game would be if someone felt inspired to take action,” said Jayance. “Activism encompasses more than just participating in demonstrations; I hope people feel encouraged to explore their options.”
In February 2024, astronomers observed a peculiar phenomenon occurring in a galaxy located 300 light-years from Earth.
An enormous flare of X-ray light erupted from the ultra-massive black hole at its center, reaching brightness levels 10 times higher and emitting 100 times more energy than previously recorded.
Whatever unfolded in that distant black hole was nothing short of extraordinary.
After meticulously monitoring the situation for over a year, astronomers have come to realize they may have witnessed one of the universe’s most dramatic events.
Bright Light, Black Hole
According to the study, the flare observed in April 2025 could indicate that the black hole (dubbed Ansky) has begun to consume surrounding gas and dust.
This scenario may evoke the image of a colossal vacuum in the universe, but the reality is somewhat different.
While nothing can escape from the black hole’s grasp, this intense hold reaches only up to the event horizon.
Beyond that limit, gravity draws gas and dust towards the black hole, creating what are known as accretion disks.
Typically, these disks orbit quietly around black holes, as seen at the heart of our galaxy, but they lack excitement.
That changes when something disrupts the disk. Environments near black holes are incredibly extreme, so even minor turbulence can cause gas to overheat, producing a bright glow.
In certain instances, black holes transform into active galactic nuclei, gathering more dust and gas from their surroundings and funneling some towards the event horizon.
This resulting chaos leads to excessive heating of the gas, which shines brilliantly, overshadowing the stars in its host galaxy.
The Black Hole Awakens
Astronomers have observed shifts in black holes from one state to another, particularly noting those that were previously dormant now burning brightly.
This is when scientists, like Lorena Hernandez Garcia from Valparaiso University in Chile, first detected flares emanating from Ansky, initially suspecting a tidal disruption event.
“These eruptions typically correlate with interactions between compact objects like stars and other black holes, or dense rings of gas and dust circling the black holes,” Hernandez Garcia stated in BBC Science Focus.
If an object nears the event horizon, the extreme gravity can tear it apart, resulting in a brilliant flash as each fragment approaches the black hole.
However, Hernández-García notes that “Ansky does not exhibit typical signs of tidal disruption events seen in other systems. There’s no evidence of such chaotic disruption. While we can’t entirely rule out the possibility of stars being torn apart, it would certainly be an unusual case.”
As something falls towards a black hole’s event horizon, time appears to slow down and freeze from a distant observer’s perspective. – Photo credit: Getty
Instead, Hernández-García believes that Ansky’s unusual behavior offers a unique glimpse into a small black hole transitioning into an active galactic nucleus.
“We think we are witnessing galaxies undergoing the ‘on-switch.’ That central black hole is starting to feed again,” stated Hernandez Garcia.
If accurate, Ansky presents astronomers with an unparalleled opportunity to observe one of the universe’s most significant transformations.
Catching a Waking Black Hole
One challenge astronomers face in capturing this phenomenon is the need for the right telescope at the right place and time.
Fortunately, Ansky had been under scrutiny by astronomers. Previously, it was merely another quiet, unremarkable black hole that received little attention.
However, it falls within the range of the Zwicky Transient Facility, a telescope that scans the sky nightly, documenting the brightness and position of stars and galaxies, and monitoring changes.
In December 2019, the galaxy housing Ansky notably brightened. Hernández-García explains, “We observed an increase in optical brightness of approximately 20% over just six months. Since then, the brightness has remained above its original level until 2025.”
Subsequently, astronomers have been monitoring Ansky for changes, including with NASA’s rapid X-ray telescopes.
Initially, there were no X-ray signals, but in February 2024, a bright flare was detected emanating from the black hole.
What remains unclear is the possible connection between the two events.
“We still don’t know if the 2019 optical brighter burst and the 2024 X-ray flare are part of the same process—essentially the black hole ‘waking up’—or if they represent separate phenomena,” says Hernández-García.
Ansky provides significant insight into what occurs when a black hole awakens, but astronomers need to observe more such events to truly understand the dynamics at play.
If all goes well, it won’t be long until the powerful Vera Rubin Observatory scans the sky for signs of unusual activities in the cosmic depths.
With more eyes on the sky than ever before, astronomers can capture even more of these dormant giants as they stir from their long, deep slumber.
About Our Experts
Lorena Hernández-García specializes in ultra-massive black holes, focusing on their feeding habits and the impacts on the surrounding galaxy environments.
On July 20th and July 23rd, 2025, NASA’s Psyche spacecraft captured images of Earth and the Moon from a distance of approximately 290 million km (180 million miles). The spacecraft’s twin cameras took several long exposure photographs, showcasing the two celestial bodies as glimmering dots in the sunlight against the backdrop of the Aries constellation.
Psyche imaged Earth and the Moon, approximately 290 million km (180 million miles) away in July 2025. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU.
Psyche is NASA’s mission aimed at studying metal-rich asteroids located in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
This mission marks NASA’s first endeavor to examine asteroids composed primarily of metal rather than rock and ice.
Psyche launched on October 13, 2023, at 10:19 AM aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from the Kennedy Space Center.
By August 2029, the spacecraft will begin its exploration of asteroids that scientists believe are remnants of planetary cores due to their high metal content.
“The multispectral imager equipment features a pair of identical cameras equipped with filters and telescope lenses designed to capture the asteroid’s surface using light across various wavelengths,” stated a member of the mission’s science team.
“The color and shape of the asteroid’s spectrum can provide insights into its composition.”
“For instance, the Moon and the large asteroid Vesta exhibit similar spectral ‘bumps and wiggles’ that scientists could potentially identify in Psyche.”
Researchers are interested in Psyche as it may enhance our understanding of how rocky planets with metallic cores, including Earth, were formed.
When selecting targets for imaging tests and calibration, they seek bodies that reflect sunlight similarly to Psyche.
This allows for comparisons with previous data obtained from telescopes or spacecraft observing these familiar spectral objects.
Earlier this year, Psyche pointed its cameras toward Jupiter and Mars for calibration purposes, and the results were successful.
To monitor changes in imager performance, researchers are also comparing data from various tests.
This ensures that when the spacecraft enters orbit around Psyche, the equipment will function as anticipated.
“We’re thrilled about the opportunity to further our understanding through our efforts,” remarked Dr. Jim Bell, Psyche Imager Instrument Lead at Arizona State University.
“We gather ‘trading cards’ from these distinct celestial bodies and run them through the calibration pipeline to ensure data accuracy.”
Psyche wasn’t the only instrument that underwent successful checkouts in July 2025.
The mission team also tested the spacecraft’s magnetometer and gamma-ray and neutron spectrometer, a routine procedure conducted every six months.
“Everything is operational and functioning well,” stated Dr. Bob Mas, the mission project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
“We aim to fly by Mars in May 2026, having accomplished all planned activities for the cruise phase.”
“This flyby represents the next significant milestone for the spacecraft, utilizing the gravitational pull of Mars to assist in reaching Psyche.”
“This will be the first of two planned loops around the solar system, marking the initial 1.6 billion km (1 billion miles) journey since its launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in October 2023.”
Recent studies indicate that the link between different lipids and Alzheimer’s disease is particularly significant for women, often absent in men.
wretlind et al. The research focuses on gender-specific lipids associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Image credit: Wretlind et al, doi: 10.1002/alz.70512.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a severe neurodegenerative condition that is increasingly impacting people globally.
Women experience a disproportionate prevalence of AD, comprising about two-thirds of all diagnosed cases.
“Women face a higher risk of AD and are often diagnosed with the condition more frequently than men post-80 years of age,” stated Dr. Christina Legidokigley, a researcher at King’s College London.
“One of the most striking findings I noticed when examining gender differences was that healthy men and those perceived as healthy did not show variations in these lipids, whereas the situation was markedly different for women.”
“This study highlights that lipid biology in AD varies by gender and opens new avenues for investigation.”
The researchers analyzed plasma samples from 841 individuals with AD, mild cognitive impairment, and those in cognitive health, measuring brain inflammation and damage.
Utilizing mass spectrometry, they examined 700 distinct lipids in the bloodstream. Lipids comprise a diverse group of molecules.
Saturated lipids are typically deemed “unhealthy,” in contrast to unsaturated lipids that contain omega fatty acids, which are often labeled as “healthy.”
Researchers observed a substantial increase in saturated lipids among women diagnosed with Alzheimer’s compared to those in the healthy group—deemed “unhealthy lipids.”
Conversely, lipids with omega fatty acids were found to be significantly diminished in those with Alzheimer’s.
“Our findings suggest that women should ensure they are incorporating omega fatty acids into their diets.”
“However, clinical trials are crucial to determine whether changes in lipid composition can influence the biological progression of AD.”
“It has been known for some time that more women than men are diagnosed with AD,” remarks Dr. Asgaretlin, also from King’s College London.
“This remains an area for further exploration, but we managed to identify biological differences in lipids across genders in extensive cohorts and underline the significance of omega-containing lipids in the blood, which has not been previously demonstrated.”
“The results are quite striking, illustrating how these changes manifest early in life among women.”
This study was published today in Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Journal of the Alzheimer’s Disease Association.
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Asger Wretlind et al. 2025. Lipid profiling uncovers reductions in unsaturated lipids among women with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia 21(8): E70512; doi: 10.1002/alz.70512
While there is no conclusive evidence of microorganisms on Ceres, recent research bolsters the theory that this dwarf planet may have once harbored conditions conducive to single-cell life.
An illustration of Ceres’ interior, highlighting the movement of water and gas from the rocky core to the saltwater reservoir. Carbon dioxide and methane are chemical energy carriers beneath Ceres’ surface. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech.
Previous scientific data from NASA’s Dawn Mission indicated that bright reflective areas on Ceres’ surface were formed from salt left behind by liquid that seeped from below ground.
A subsequent 2020 analysis identified that this liquid originated from a vast reservoir of subsurface brine.
Additional studies found organic materials in the form of carbon molecules on Ceres. While this alone doesn’t confirm the existence of microbial life, it is a crucial component.
Water and carbon molecules are two fundamental aspects of the habitability puzzle for this distant world.
The latest findings suggest that ancient chemical energy on Ceres could have supported the survival of microorganisms.
This does not imply that Ceres currently hosts life, but if it did, “food” sources are likely to have been available.
In a new study led by Dr. Sam Courville from Arizona State University and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a thermal and chemical model was developed to simulate the temperature and composition within Ceres over time.
They discovered that approximately 2.5 billion years ago, Ceres’ underground oceans possibly maintained a stable supply of warm water with dissolved gases emanating from metamorphic rocks in the rocky core.
The heat originated from the decay of radioactive elements within the planet’s rocky interior, a process typical in our solar system.
“On Earth, when hot water from deep underground interacts with ocean water, it frequently creates a fertility hotspot for microorganisms, releasing a wealth of chemical energy,” stated Dr. Courville.
“Therefore, if Ceres’ oceans experienced hydrothermal activity in the past, it would align well with our findings.”
As it stands, Ceres is not likely to be habitable today, being cooler and having less ice and water than it once did.
At present, the heat from radioactive decay in Ceres is inadequate to prevent water from freezing, resulting in highly concentrated saltwater.
The timeframe during which Ceres was likely habitable ranges from 5 billion to 2 billion years ago, coinciding with when its rocky core peaked in temperature.
This is when warm liquid water would have been introduced into Ceres’ groundwater.
Dwarf planets generally lack the benefit of ongoing internal heating due to tidal interactions with larger planets, unlike Enceladus and Europa, moons of Saturn and Jupiter, respectively.
Thus, the highest potential for a habitable Ceres existed in its past.
“Since then, Ceres’ oceans are likely to be cold, concentrated saltwater with minimal energy sources, making current habitability unlikely,” the authors concluded.
A paper detailing these findings was published today in the journal Advances in Science.
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Samuel W. Courville et al. 2025. Core metamorphosis controls the dynamic habitability of the medium-sized marine world – the case of Ceres. Advances in Science 11 (34); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adt3283
Bees often struggle to get the nutrients they need from flowers
Ran Zisovitch/Shutterstock
Artificial “superfoods” that supply vital nutrients for honeybees indicate that colonies could generate significantly more larvae, potentially addressing the worldwide decline in bee populations.
Bees rely on a diverse range of flower pollen to acquire essential nutrients, including crucial lipids known as sterols. Unfortunately, climate change and industrial farming practices often leave their habitats lacking the floral variety necessary for their survival. “For crops to be pollinated, you need more bees, but they have less food,” says Geraldine Light from Oxford University.
In response to this, beekeepers are increasingly providing artificial pollen substitutes. Yet, the common commercial supplements, typically made from protein powders, sugars, and oils, are deficient in the necessary sterol compounds, rendering them nutritionally inadequate.
Through CRISPR gene editing, Wright and her team developed the yeast Yarrowia Lipolytica to manufacture the precise blend of six essential sterols that bees require. This yeast was included in the diet of bee colonies during a three-month feeding trial conducted in a controlled glasshouse.
At the conclusion of the study, colonies fed the sterol-enhanced yeast produced up to 15 times more larvae reaching the viable pupal stage than those receiving standard commercial bee feed.
Colonies on a sterol-rich diet maintained their egg and larval production throughout the 90-day period, while those with sterol-deficient diets experienced a significant decline in chick production before the study’s conclusion.
“Our technology enables beekeepers to nourish their bees alongside pollen,” Wright explains. “When integrated with pollen alternatives that are optimized with other nutrients, honeybees can develop healthier, more robust, and longer-lasting colonies.”
This yeast can also be utilized to formulate essential nutrients for other farmed insects, which are becoming increasingly vital food sources for both humans and livestock, according to Wright.
Healthcare has witnessed remarkable advancements over the past few decades. In high-income nations, the survival rate for certain types of pediatric leukemia has increased from about 10% to over 90%. HPV vaccinations have decreased the incidence of cervical cancer, and early detection of HIV can lead to life expectancies similar to that of the general population.
In contrast, progress in mental health treatment has been less pronounced. Psychiatry often struggles with a perception of stagnation in treatment methodologies. Historically, it has heavily relied on psychopharmaceuticals developed in the mid-20th century. The field has remained largely anchored to these early drug treatments.
This stagnation is not due to a lack of effort. In the 1970s, molecular psychiatry emerged, focusing on the molecular basis of mental health conditions through proteins, genes, and signaling pathways. The goal was to anchor diagnostics and treatments to biological mechanisms instead of merely interpreting subjective symptoms. Despite advances in genetic research, including exploring the genetic links to schizophrenia, we have yet to see significant improvements in mental health treatment paralleling those in physical health.
The new approach is targeting chronic inflammation.
Given that approximately 8-16% of individuals in high-income countries like England experience anxiety and depression, a fresh perspective is crucial. Current innovative approaches focus on chronic inflammation, a phenomenon linked not just to heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but also to mental health.
For many, chronic low-grade inflammation results from the pace of modern life, often fueled by factors such as stress, obesity, and poor dietary choices. Promising developments suggest that certain anti-inflammatory medications may have potential benefits for the brain, alleviating issues associated with depression and dementia (“Chronic inflammation harms your mind. Here’s how to calm it down”).
These findings also clarify that managing mental health can be approached through actions such as regular exercise, relaxation techniques, and nutritious eating.
While this path may not work for everyone, given that antidepressants fail to help approximately 30% of those treated for depression, any progress is welcomed.
Cement can self-cool by reflecting light outward and dissipating heat from its surface, offering a comfortable indoor climate without reliance on air conditioning.
Traditional cement often absorbs infrared light from the sun, trapping heat and causing indoor temperatures to rise along with the surrounding air.
To tackle this challenge, Fengyin Du from Purdue University in Indiana and her team developed a unique cement that features tiny reflective mineral crystals called ettringite on its exterior.
This innovative cement releases infrared light instead of retaining it, allowing for rapid heat loss. “It acts like a mirror or radiator, reflecting sunlight and releasing heat into the atmosphere, enabling the building to remain cool without needing air conditioning or power,” Du explains.
Initially, the researchers create small pellets from commonly found minerals like limestone and gypsum. These are ground into a fine powder, mixed with water, and poured into silicon molds that contain small perforations. Air bubbles moving through these holes form slight indentations on the surface, where the reflective ettringite crystals can develop. The aluminum-rich gels in the set cement permit infrared rays to traverse the material.
Du notes the process is easily scalable and enables cement production at lower temperatures, making it $5 less expensive per tonne than conventional Portland cement.
Du and her team evaluated the temperature regulation of their cement on the hot roof of Purdue University’s campus and observed that its surface temperature was 5.4°C (9.7°F) cooler than the surrounding air and 26°C (47°F) lower compared to Portland Cement.
Surface dimples of cement viewed under an electron microscope
Guo Lu/Southeast University
“It’s a valuable material,” states Oscar Brousse from University College London. “You enhance the material’s ability to reflect and emit energy, thus efficiently releasing energy that the material has absorbed.”
However, gauging just the surface temperature of a material does not convey its real-world performance. “A surface temperature reduction of 5°C translates into a 5°C decrease in air temperature, which can significantly impact local conditions.”
The icy dwarf planet Ceres might have been habitable in the past
NASA/Jet Propulsion Research Institute (JPL)
The dwarf planet Ceres seems desolate and frozen, yet, billions of years after its creation, it could have housed a warm, habitable interior.
Sam Course Building from Arizona State University notes that while we can’t definitively say life could arise on Ceres, its past conditions possibly allowed for the survival of life.
Previous research indicates that Ceres may contain water ice and organic compounds, suggesting potential for life. In this study, however, researchers explored what these potential alien life forms could have consumed. Instead of feeding on other organisms, they might have derived energy directly from chemical molecules, similar to microorganisms found in hydrothermal vents in Earth’s oceans. Could analogous microorganisms have lived in Ceres’ ancient oceans?
The team simulated Ceres’ history and found that over 500 million to 2 billion years ago, pores near its hot core could have released liquid which mingled with the cold ocean waters. This interaction might have provided essential chemical “food” for microorganisms.
To seek past or current life in the solar system, Amanda Hendrix from the Institute of Planetary Sciences emphasizes the importance of examining worlds like Ceres that either currently have or once possessed oceans.
Interestingly, the types of life-sustaining conditions described by the team might also have existed on other ice-like bodies the size of Ceres. This suggests that the number of potentially habitable planets in evolution could be greater than previously thought.
“If Ceres was habitable in the past, then it’s probable that a multitude of asteroids and moons were also habitable, and many may still be today,” states team member Joe O’Rourke from Arizona State University.
Thus, habitability may simply result from readily available ingredients that appear to be common in the solar system.
However, many aspects remain uncertain, especially concerning Ceres itself. Researchers believe that accurate chemical analyses of surface minerals will enhance their models, but no spacecraft capable of conducting such analyses has landed on Ceres yet.
Cold Fusion, once a notorious name in the scientific community, is experiencing a resurgence. Researchers are revisiting earlier experiments that suggested room-temperature fusion, hinting at the potential for energy generation akin to that of the Sun, but without the extreme heat typically required. Although the initial claims were thoroughly scrutinized, recent iterations of this research have found ways to enhance fusion rates, even if they still fall short of producing usable energy.
Nuclear fusion involves merging atomic nuclei under extreme temperature and pressure, releasing energy in the process. This phenomenon naturally occurs in stars like our Sun, but replicating it on Earth for energy use has proven to be a significant challenge. Despite aspirations for commercial fusion reactors dating back to the 1950s, we haven’t yet managed to build one that yields more energy than it consumes.
The tide seemed to turn in 1989 when chemists Stanley Pons and Martin Fleischmann at the University of Utah reported that they had achieved nuclear fusion at room temperature using palladium rods submerged in water injected with neutron-rich heavy water and subjected to an electric current. This process generated unexpected heat spikes that surpassed predictions for standard chemical reactions, leading them to believe significant levels of nuclear fusion were occurring.
Dubbed Cold Fusion, this experiment captivated interest for its implication of a simpler, cleaner energy source compared to conventional hot fusion. However, the excitement quickly faded as researchers worldwide failed to replicate the observed heat anomalies.
Recently, Curtis Berlinguette and his team at the University of British Columbia have developed a novel tabletop particle accelerator, drawing inspiration from the original research conducted by Pons and Fleischmann.
“Cold fusion was dismissed back in 1989 due to the inability to replicate the findings. Our setup is designed for reproducibility, enabling verification by others,” Berlinguette explains. “We don’t claim to have discovered an energy miracle; our goal is to advance scientific understanding and provide reliable data to make fusion more attainable and interdisciplinary.”
Similar to the initial cold fusion experiment, the current research employs deuterium and palladium, which are hydrogen isotopes containing neutrons. The Thunderbird reactor utilizes a deuterium nucleus and a concentrated high-energy beam directed at a palladium electrode. This method prompts the palladium to absorb these high-energy particles and facilitates fusion by increasing the saturation of deuterium in the material.
To enhance fusion rates, the researchers incorporated an electrochemical device filled with deuterium oxide (heavy water). This device breaks down the heavy water into deuterium and oxygen, allowing the deuterium to be absorbed by the electrodes, boosting the quantity of deuterium available for fusion. “An essential takeaway from our 1989 experiment was the use of electrochemistry to introduce hydrogen fuel to the electrodes,” Berlinguette emphasizes.
As a result, the researchers noted a 15% increase in neutron production, correlating with a rise in fusion rates, though it only generates a billionth of a watt—far less than the 15 watts required to operate the device. “We’re just a few orders of magnitude away from powering your home with these reactors,” Berlinguette states.
While the experiment is notably inspired by the 1989 research, the current work indicates that the primary source of fusion comes from the powerful deuteron beam, rather than the electrochemistry proposed by Pons and Fleischmann. Anthony Ksernak from Imperial College London notes, “This is not an unknown phenomenon; it’s about colliding deuterium with a solid target and achieving what appears to be a fusion event,” noting the energy from the high-energy particles is equivalent to hundreds of millions of Kelvins.
Ksernak acknowledges that the 15% increase in deuterium saturation in palladium is modest, but he sees potential in experimenting with different metals for the electrodes in future research.
Berlinguette remains hopeful that the fusion rate can be elevated by redesigning the reactor. Recent unpublished work from a colleague suggests that merely altering the shape of the electrodes might yield a four-order magnitude increase in the fusion rate, though it would still fall short of the levels required for practical applications.
Even if higher fusion rates aren’t achieved, Berlinguette believes the electrochemical technique for enhancing deuterium loading in metals could be beneficial for developing high-temperature superconductors. Many promising superconducting materials, known for their zero electrical resistance and potential to transform global electrical systems, are metals that incorporate significant hydrogen amounts. Traditionally, creating these materials demands excessive pressure and energy; however, the electrochemical systems used in Thunderbird reactors could streamline the process with much less energy expenditure, according to Berlinguette.
Cern and Mont Blanc, Dark and Frozen Matter: Switzerland and France
Prepare to be amazed by CERN, the European Centre for Particle Physics. Here, researchers operate the renowned Large Hadron Collider situated near the picturesque Swiss city of Geneva.
Solar flares pose risks to GPS systems and communication satellites
NASA/SDO/AIA
AI models developed with NASA satellite imagery are now capable of forecasting the sun’s appearance hours ahead.
“I envision this model as an AI telescope that enables us to observe the sun and grasp its ‘mood,'” states Juan Bernabe Moreno from IBM Research Europe.
The sun’s state is crucial because bursts of solar activity can bombard Earth with high-energy particles, X-rays, and extreme ultraviolet radiation. These events have the potential to disrupt GPS systems and communication satellites, as well as endanger astronauts and commercial flights. Solar flares may also be accompanied by coronal mass ejections, which can severely impact Earth’s magnetic field, leading to geomagnetic storms that could incapacitate power grids.
Bernabé-Moreno and his team at IBM and NASA created an AI model named Surya, derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘sun,’ by utilizing nine years of data from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory. This satellite captures ultra-high-resolution images of the sun across 13 wavelength channels. The AI models have learned to recognize patterns in this visual data and create forecasts of how the sun will appear from future observational stations.
When tested against historical solar flare data, the Surya model demonstrated a 16% improvement in accuracy for predicting flare occurrences within the next day compared to traditional machine learning models. There is also a possibility that the model could generate visualizations of flares observable for up to two hours in advance.
“The strength of AI lies in its capacity to comprehend physics in unconventional ways. It enhances our intuition regarding physical processes,” remarks Lisa Upton at the Southwest Research Institute in Colorado.
Upton is especially eager to explore if the Surya model can aid in predicting solar activity across the sun and at its poles—areas where NASA instruments cannot directly observe. While Surya does not explicitly aim to model the far side of the sun, it has shown promise in forecasting what the sun will resemble for several hours ahead as sections rotate into view, according to Bernabe Moreno.
However, it remains uncertain whether AI models can overcome existing obstacles in accurately predicting how solar activity will influence Earth. Bernard Jackson from the University of California, San Diego, points out that there is currently no means to directly observe the magnetic field composition between the Sun and Earth, a crucial factor determining the direction of high-energy particles emanating from the star.
As stated by Bernabé-Moreno, this model is intended for scientific use now, but future collaborations with other AI systems that could leverage Surya’s capabilities may allow it to support power grid operators and satellite constellation owners as part of early warning frameworks.
Google’s newest Gemini AI update aims to forecast how you can obtain essential information to enhance your photography skills or to function as a tailored health and sleep adviser for addressing various concerns.
The newly announced Pixel 10 features a Magic Cue capability for Android devices that enables chatbots to sift through digital content and present relevant information concerning their phones as needed.
When contacting an airline, your reservation details will automatically appear in the phone app via Gmail. Similarly, if a friend texts about Sunday brunch, Gemini will propose the ideal coffee shop and display your calendar alongside the message.
This capability is part of an array of artificial intelligence enhancements for the latest Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro fold Phones. Each device boasts a new Tensor G5 chip that executes magic cues and additional AI functions locally.
Leo Gebbie, a principal analyst at CCS Insight, observed that Google “effectively utilizes AI on-device more than its competitors,” noting that the Magic Cue feature represents “an initial stride towards a much-anticipated agent AI experience that has been long-promised on smartphones.”
He further stated: “Google can leverage the fact that many Android users already have well-populated apps such as Gmail, Calendar, Maps, and others for personal data. This amalgamates the information in a more practical manner than ever before.”
The Pixel 10 is equipped with a Tensor G5 chip that facilitates magical cues and other AI functionalities locally. Photo: Google
The Pixel 10 features an enhanced imaging system with a 6.3-inch OLED display and a 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto camera for the first time, evolving from the previous models which had two cameras. The Pixel 10 Pro is available in two sizes, with options for a 6.3-inch or 6.8-inch display, and includes three cameras with a 48MP telephoto lens capable of 10x optical zoom.
The Pixel 10 Pro fold is among the first foldable phones boasting complete IP68 water and dust resistance, akin to standard slab devices, as Google aims to address concerns regarding flexible screen durability. It shares a camera system similar to that of the Pixel 10.
The device also supports multiple AI photography features, including a new camera coach that utilizes Google’s AI server to evaluate the scenes in front of the camera and provide suggestions for improved framing, angles, and lighting.
The Pixel 10 starts at £799 (899 Euros/$799/$1,349), whereas the Pixel 10 Pro begins at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699) and will be available from August 28th. The Pixel 10 fold will be priced from £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/$2,699) and will launch on October 9th.
Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Bud 2a
The Pixel Watch 4 Smartwatch brings Gemini to your wrist, serving as a personal AI health coach. Photo: Google
Google has also unveiled the Pixel Watch 4 Smartwatch, which integrates Gemini to offer personalized health coaching on your wrist. Utilizing the new Fitbit app, Gemini can devise customized fitness and sleep plans, track training impacts in real-time, and respond to health and fitness inquiries in a chatbot style.
Available in two sizes, the Pixel Watch 4 features a dome-shaped display that is 10% larger than its predecessor. It is the first smartwatch capable of providing SOS satellite-based emergency services in the U.S. when off the grid. This model is also the first designed with maintainability in mind, allowing for easier repair of the battery and screen, aiming to compete with Apple and Samsung in this regard. It starts at £349 (499 Euros/$349/$579).
In addition, the Pixel Buds 2a offers a more affordable option for Google’s compact Bluetooth earphones, priced at £129 (€149/$129/$239). They incorporate the same Tensor A1 chip found in the premium Buds Pro 2, along with noise cancellation and integrated Gemini AI assistants. The Bud 2a charging case is designed with a replaceable battery, although the earphones themselves are not repairable.
I was about to set off on an adventurous few hours when we encountered a moment to pause. It wasn’t a major issue—no flat tires or broken handles—just that my map application no longer connects to the music player on my phone. The recent “update” stripped away features, altered the music interface, and removed my ability to track my location on the map simultaneously.
This is what usually complicates my existence in an automated world. The promise of mandatory software updates is to enhance the applications and software we rely on daily, making them more user-friendly and secure. However, in many cases, these updates completely alter the technologies we’ve come to appreciate.
I had finally adjusted to how my device functioned, but did I truly feel secure knowing that the controls could suddenly shift at any time? Sorry—it’s a whole new ball game now! What about those features I relied on frequently, like community-generated subtitles on YouTube and the option to view historical statistics? Apologies, but those have either vanished entirely or are now hidden behind a paywall. This situation breeds paranoia. I’ve found myself immersed in a Reddit thread populated with individuals convinced that the latest operating system updates are reducing their phone’s battery life significantly. Did this actually happen? Who can tell?
This is one reason I feel uneasy about “smart” appliances. While Hollywood portrayals of hackers and robot revolts aren’t particularly terrifying, I’m more concerned about disruptive updates, vanishing features, or unnecessary enhancements. I worry that anonymous developers, miles away, could make a simple change that degrades their apps and software overnight. Half of my computer’s programs are cluttered with the latest AI gimmickry. Just wait until manufacturers of household items decide they need to join in too.
Do you tolerate products that have diminished in quality over time simply because the manufacturer decided so, rather than normal wear and tear? A hammer that inexplicably removed the nail puller unless you pay for a ridiculous new subscription? Shouldn’t you also have a faucet that consistently delivers hot water, instead of being arbitrarily limited by the creator’s whims? It really shouldn’t be like that.
I’ve learned to cope without a map and a connected audio controller. Yet, I still feel the impact. Perhaps it serves as a constant reminder that living a more simplified life, detached from the relentless updates of faceless corporations, is not such a terrible fate.
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