Researchers have identified numerous instances of snow leopards dispersing from the Tibetan Plateau.

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

of snow leopard (panthera uncia) It is a large cat endemic to the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and surrounding areas. How this apex predator gradually adapted to its extreme environment remains a mystery due to Tibet’s sparse fossil record. In a new study, scientists examined five records outside Tibet of the snow leopard lineage. Their findings suggest that snow leopards dispersed from the Tibetan Plateau multiple times during the Quaternary period. The anatomy of modern snow leopards shows adaptation to steep slopes and cold/high-altitude environments. The new results suggest that snow leopards gradually strengthened such adaptations, especially since the Middle Pleistocene (800,000 years ago).

We predicted the appropriate distribution and morphospace of extant and fossil snow leopards. Image credit: Jianhao Ye.

The snow leopard is one of the emblematic animals of the Tibetan Plateau and is also distributed in the mountainous regions of Central Asia as well as the Mongolian Plateau.

It has distinctive features that clearly distinguish it from other members of the genus, including long, dense fur, long tail, short face, steep, broad forehead, and large cheek teeth. pantera.

Snow leopards typically live in alpine regions above 3,000 meters above sea level or above the tree line, but can also be found much lower, below 1,000 meters in some areas of Siberia.

The snow leopard’s status on the IUCN Red List is: vulnerablethere are 4,000 individuals. However, as global warming progresses, their distribution is expected to shift northward or to higher altitudes, which will have a major impact.

“Although the unique characteristics of the snow leopard have long been recognized, the correlation between these characteristics and their adaptation to the environment of the Tibetan Plateau, as well as their evolutionary history, remains largely unknown,” said the institute’s researchers. said Dr. Qigao Jianzuo. Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Peking University, and colleagues.

“This gap in understanding is primarily due to the rarity of snow leopard fossils on the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding areas.”

In this study, researchers described snow leopard fossils collected from five archaeological sites in Longdan, Gansu Province, China; Arago in France. Zhoukoudian area 3, Beijing, China. Manga Larga, Portugal. Niuyan Cave, Mendougou, Beijing, China.

With the exception of the Uyan Cave fossil, which can be classified as a modern snow leopard, the others show significant differences compared to extant snow leopards.

Scientists concluded that the snow leopards found outside the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau are not an independent lineage, but rather consist of smaller branches from the main snow leopard branch.

These branches may indicate multiple dispersions of snow leopards from Tibet at different times.

To study the evolution of key morphological characters, the authors conducted a systematic analysis of the functional morphology of modern snow leopards using anatomy, geometric morphometrics, and finite element analysis. carried out.

Their findings show that snow leopards have large eye sockets and highly developed binocular vision, and have advanced stereopsis that allows them to quickly focus on prey even in complex terrain. It suggests that.

“Snow leopards have short snouts and steeply angled jaws, with canine teeth characterized by an approximately circular cross-section,” the researchers said.

“This structure allows them to exert great force and subdue strong prey, but it can also reduce their flexibility.”

“Furthermore, the snow leopard’s well-developed frontal sinus system warms the air it breathes, increasing its respiratory efficiency, making it a well-adapted animal to cold, low-oxygen environments.”

“Additionally, snow leopards have a prominent tympanic sac, which increases their sensitivity to infrasound and allows them to detect prey sounds from greater distances in open areas.”

“Thanks to their large cheek teeth (i.e. premolars and molars), they are able to eat most of the meat of their prey before it freezes in cold environments.”

“Additionally, these teeth improve the snow leopard’s ability to chew on already frozen carcasses.”

“The snow leopard’s scapula and pelvis are relatively small, but the bones in its distal limbs are elongated.”

“This suggests that although their forelimb strength is low, they have high movement flexibility, making them suitable for running and jumping in mountainous areas.”

“Most of these traits represent adaptations to the mountainous environment and their primary prey, Caprinae (sheep and their relatives). Capriidae tend to be slower, but shorter and shorter. It has sturdy limbs and strong horns that provide excellent resistance.

“Only some of the snow leopard’s adaptations are related to high-altitude, low-oxygen conditions.”

The researchers also studied the functional form of the fossil snow leopard by correlating its various morphological features with its functions.

They discovered early snow leopards, including the early Pleistocene. pantera Ah. Pirenaica From Longtan and early Middle Pleistocene Panthera Pirenaica The Frenchman’s lower jaw was already steeply angled, but not yet shortened.

Additionally, their cheek teeth were not enlarged. This suggests an early adaptation to caprine prey. However, no significant specialization for cold environments was evident at this stage.

Fossils from later periods such as the late Middle Pleistocene pantera Ah. anthea Zhoukoudian locality 3 and from the late Pleistocene Panthera Uncia Lusitanawas found to be very similar to modern snow leopards and exhibit comparable adaptations.

However, certain characteristics, such as the development of the ectotympanic cavity and the degree of forehead enlargement, were generally less pronounced in Europeans. Panthera Uncia Lusitana Compare it to the modern snow leopard.

“Bayesian analysis of the rate of morphological evolution indicates that snow leopards began to change rapidly during the Middle Pleistocene,” the authors said.

“This period coincides with the appearance of large ice sheets on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.”

“Since the Middle Pleistocene, global climate change has increased, resulting in more severe and prolonged ice ages.”

“These conditions have allowed the snow leopard to expand its range beyond the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.”

“Notably, the Middle Pleistocene was also the time when many members of the Capriinae began to migrate from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau to northern China and Europe, paralleling the migration of snow leopards from the plateau.”

To determine whether fossil snow leopards have similar ecological adaptations to modern snow leopards, researchers analyzed the relationship between the distribution of modern snow leopards and climate data.

They took a random forest approach and trained a model known as species distribution modeling to predict how snow leopards would adapt based on climate conditions.

They then applied climate data from the Last Glacial Maximum to assess the potential maximum distribution of extant snow leopards during that period.

“This result indicates that the potential suitable distribution of snow leopards during the Last Glacial Maximum was significantly larger than it is today,” the scientists said.

“However, regions such as Europe and Beijing were outside of areas considered suitable for distribution.”

“This suggests that fossil snow leopards may have developed different ecological adaptations than modern snow leopards.”

“Therefore, the distribution of fossil snow leopards cannot be fully predicted using modern snow leopard models.”

“Furthermore, it should be noted that these fossil remains are generally located at relatively low altitudes (below 500 meters), but in mountainous environments, and usually contain fossils of the family Caprinae.” It’s important.”

“The only exception is archaeological sites in Portugal, where there are no animal records. This observation suggests that mountainous terrain and associated prey availability may be more important for snow leopards than high altitude, low oxygen conditions. This suggests that there is a possibility that

“Uuyan Cave is the only known place in the world that contains both snow leopard and leopard fossils.”

“We know that today’s snow leopards sometimes share habitat in transition zones near tree lines, so the Niuyang Cave discovery suggests that similar environmental conditions existed there when the fossils were deposited. It suggests possibility.”

“Tracing the evolutionary history and functional-morphological adaptations of the snow leopard, an important target for ecological conservation on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, by integrating paleontology, molecular biology, finite element analysis, and species distribution modeling. I was able to do that.”

“Our findings reveal the evolutionary path of snow leopards and suggest that mountainous terrain may have played a more important role in their survival than climate factors alone.”

These insights are important for ongoing snow leopard conservation efforts and also demonstrate the utility of paleontological conservation.

Dr João Madurell Malapeira said: “Our analysis shows that altitude and snow are definitely not the limiting factors for the distribution of this species, but rather the presence of open and steep spaces. I have come to the conclusion that this may be the case.” Researchers at the University of Florence and the Autonomous University of Barcelona.

“In other words, snow leopards have always adapted to life in the mountains, but they don’t necessarily have to live at high altitude or in places with snow.”

“And this is an encouragement to ensure their survival in climate change conditions like the current one.”

team’s paper Published in a magazine scientific progress.

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Qigao Jiangzuo others. 2025. Insights into the evolution and adaptation to high altitude and cold environments in the snow leopard lineage. scientific progress 11(3);doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp5243

Source: www.sci.news

What is the substance being sprayed on the California wildfires?

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The primary purpose of the pink dye is simply to allow firefighters and pilots to accurately create and identify lines of flame retardant.

“Essentially, this allows the pilot to see where the line will be dropped,” Horn said. “If it’s clear, they won’t know where the deceleration line is.”

Phos-Chek fades over time when exposed to sunlight and washes away with water, so it won’t permanently stain your landscape.

Neptune Aviation, a Montana-based air tanker company, is one of the services currently delivering fire retardant to areas affected by the fires. The company has contracts with the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

Nick Lin, vice president of operations for Neptune Aviation, said three of the company’s air tankers are in use in Southern California. He explained that the aircraft were using designated air tanker bases set up by the government.

“We go to a pre-established tanker base where we mix the flame retardant and pump it onto the plane. Think of us like a dump truck. We take the product from A to B,” he said.

On Monday, pink flame retardant was discovered at a home in the hills of Mandeville Canyon in Los Angeles.
Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images

Neptune Aviation flew at least 93 missions and transported an additional 280,000 gallons of retardant for firefighting efforts, Lin added.

To protect the ecosystem, the Forest Service and Department of the Interior require aircraft to avoid dropping flame retardants within 300 feet of waterways (ground deliveries must also avoid waterways). However, some exceptions are allowed, such as when “the potential damage to natural resources outweighs the potential loss of aquatic life.” According to the Forest Service.

The main environmental issue associated with flame retardants is the presence of heavy metals. A study last year suggested that some versions of Phos-Chek contained higher levels of metals such as cadmium and chromium than would be considered safe according to regulatory standards. Heavy metals are not added directly to the product, but can come from naturally occurring impurities.

But Horne said the version of Foscheck dropped in California is “a different product than it was a few years ago.”

A Mandeville Canyon trail entrance sign was covered in pink flame retardant in Los Angeles on Monday.
Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images

Yifan Zhu, a professor of environmental health sciences at the Fielding School of Public Health at the University of California, Los Angeles, said the benefits of using flame retardants outweigh the risks.

“There is little evidence that there are any serious long-term health effects in people associated with it,” Zhu said.

He added that the immediate health risks posed by wildfire smoke, which contains high levels of particulate matter, outweigh potential concerns related to flame retardants.

Exposure to smoke pollution can cause a variety of respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including difficulty breathing, bronchitis, and heart attacks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

2020 Artificial Intelligence (AI): British novelist slams government for AI “theft”

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Kate Mosse and Richard Osman have criticized Labor’s proposal to grant wide-ranging freedom to artificial intelligence companies to data mine artwork, warning that it could stifle growth in the creative sector and amount to theft.

Best-selling authors have joined Keir Starmer in opposing the national initiative to establish Britain as an “AI superpower,” endorsing a 50-point action plan that includes changes to how technology companies utilize copyrighted content and data for training models.

There is ongoing debate among ministers regarding whether to permit major technology companies to gather substantial amounts of books, music, and other creative works unless copyright owners actively opt out.

This move is aimed at accelerating growth for AI companies in the UK, as training AI models necessitates substantial amounts of data. Technology companies argue that existing copyright laws create uncertainty and pose a risk to development speed.

However, creators advocate for AI companies to pay for the use of their work, expressing disappointment when the Prime Minister endorsed the proposal. The EU is also pushing for a similar system requiring copyright holders to opt out of data mining processes.

The AI Creative Rights Alliance, comprising various trade bodies, criticized Starmer’s stance as “deeply troubling” and called for the preservation of the current copyright system. They urged ministers to consider their concerns.

Renowned artists like Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Stephen Fry, and Hugh Bonneville have raised concerns about AI potentially threatening their livelihoods. A petition warns against the unauthorized use of creative works for AI training.

Mosse emphasized the importance of using AI responsibly without compromising the creative industries’ growth potential, while Osman stressed the necessity of seeking permission and paying fees for using copyrighted works to prevent theft.

The government’s AI action plan, formulated by venture capitalist Matt Clifford, calls for reforming the UK’s text and data mining regulations to align with the EU’s standards, highlighting the need for competitive policies.

The government’s response to the action plan emphasizes the goal of creating a competitive copyright regime supportive of both the AI sector and creative industries. Starmer expressed his support for the recommendations.

Various industry representatives, including Joe Twist from the British Recording Industry, advocate for a balanced approach that fosters growth in both the creative and AI sectors without undermining Britain’s creative prowess.

Critics argue that AI companies should not be allowed to exploit creative works for profit without permission or compensation. The ongoing consultation on copyright policies aims to establish a framework benefiting both sectors.

Source: www.theguardian.com

New Genetic Findings Show Women’s Empowerment in Ancient Britain Before Roman Rule

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Late Iron Age Durotrigan burial at Winterbourne Kingston, Dorset, England

bournemouth university

Genetic analysis of people buried in a 2,000-year-old cemetery in southern England supports the idea that Britain’s Celtic communities were dominated by women, finding that while men immigrated from other communities, women indicates that they stayed in their ancestral home. It lasted for centuries.

The study supports growing archaeological evidence that women held high positions in Celtic societies across Europe, including Britain, and that Mediterranean audiences often found it difficult to describe Celtic women as having power. This gives credence to the Roman accounts, which were often thought to be exaggerated.

Since 2009, Durotrygean skeletons have been unearthed during excavations of an Iron Age burial site in Winterbourne-Kingston, Dorset, England. The Durothrigeans occupied the coast of south-central England from about 100 BC to 100 AD, and probably spoke a Celtic language.

Human bones from Iron Age Britain are rare because they were destroyed by common funerary practices such as cremation and burial of bodies in bogs. However, the Durotrige buried their dead in formal cemeteries in the chalk landscape, which helped preserve them. Archaeologists have found that Durotrigan women were often buried with valuables, suggesting a high status and perhaps a female-centered society.

Lara Cassidy Doctors from Trinity College, Dublin, have now analyzed the genomes of 55 Winterbourne-Kingston Durotrigans to determine how they are related to each other and to other Iron Age peoples in Britain and Europe. I found out how they are related.

Cassidy says there were two big “aha” moments. Both were associated with mitochondrial DNA. Mitochondrial DNA is a small loop of DNA that is inherited only through the maternal line because it is passed through the egg cell and is not integrated with other DNA.

Once each individual’s mitochondrial DNA results were obtained, the researchers noticed that the same genetic sequences appeared over and over again. More than two-thirds of the individuals were found to be descended from a single maternal line, descended from a common female ancestor several centuries ago.

“At that moment, my jaw dropped,” Cassidy says. “This was a clear sign of matrilocality, a husband moving to live with his wife’s family, a pattern never before seen in prehistoric Europe.” Father locality moving into the community is the norm.

To find out whether the maternal localization pattern was a phenomenon peculiar to the Durothrigues, or whether it might have been more widespread across Britain, Cassidy uses an earlier large-scale study of Iron Age Britain and Europe. I started looking into genetic research data. Her jaw dropped again. She found that in cemeteries across Britain, most people were maternal descendants of a small number of female ancestors.

Cassidy said there is growing evidence that Iron Age women were relatively powerful. “Nativeness typically co-occurs with cultural practices that benefit women and integrate them into family support networks,” she explains.

In modern societies, matrilocality is associated with increased female involvement in food production, increased paternity uncertainty, and longer periods of male absence. In such societies, it is men who migrate to new communities as relative strangers and become dependent on their partners’ families for their livelihood.

“Although men typically still occupy formal positions of authority, women can wield significant influence through their strong matrilineal kinship networks and central role in local economies,” says Cassidy.

Cassidy’s team also compared the British DNA dataset with data from other European sites, revealing repeated waves of migration from the continent, consistent with archaeological evidence. This is because southern Britain was a hotspot of cultural and genetic exchange during the Bronze Age between 2500 BC and 1200 BC and during the Late Iron Age influx of the previously unknown Durothrigid period. showed that it was.

Previous research had suggested that Celtic languages probably arrived in Britain between 1000 BC and 875 BC, but this new discovery expands that possibility. “Celtic languages may have been introduced multiple times,” Cassidy said.

“This is very exciting new research and will revolutionize the way we understand prehistoric societies,” he says. Rachel Pope from the University of Liverpool, UK, previously found evidence of female-dominated kinship relationships in Iron Age Europe. “What we’re learning is that the nature of pre-Roman European society was actually very different.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Over 500,000 “TikTok refugees” flock to China’s Red Note as ban on app approaches | Technology

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Days before popular US social media app TikTok is proposed to be banned, Chinese social media app Red Note is seeing a flood of new users as the little-known company eases English language restrictions while strategically taking advantage of the sudden influx.

More than 50,000 users from the United States and China participated in a live chat dubbed “TikTok Refugees” on RedNote on Monday. Veteran Chinese users welcomed the American users, with some trepidation, and exchanged notes on topics such as food and youth unemployment, although at times the conversation delved into more sensitive subjects.

Such impromptu cultural exchanges were happening across Red Note, also known as “Xiaohongshu” in China, as it rose to the top of the US download rankings this week. Its popularity was boosted by social media users in the U.S. who had been searching for alternatives to ByteDance Inc.’s TikTok in the days before its impending ban.

RedNote, a venture capital-backed startup valued at $17 billion, allows users to curate photos, videos, and text to document their lives. With more than 300 million users relying on it for travel tips, anti-aging creams, and restaurant recommendations, the company is considered an IPO candidate in China.

In just two days, over 700,000 new users have joined Xiaohonshu, and Red Note downloads in the U.S. have increased significantly, according to estimates from app data research firm Sensor Tower.

The surge in U.S. users comes ahead of a Jan. 19 deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a U.S. ban on national security grounds. TikTok is currently used by about 170 million Americans, about half of the U.S. population, and is overwhelmingly popular with young people and advertisers.

Stella Kittrell, a 29-year-old content creator based in Baltimore, Maryland, expressed her support for Americans using Red Note as a response to concerns over business and privacy issues with the U.S. government. She joined RedNote in hopes of collaborating with Chinese companies and finding an alternative to other social media platforms.

Brian Atavansi, a 29-year-old business analyst and content creator from San Diego, California, noted that apps like Instagram and Facebook are not able to recreate the sense of community found on TikTok due to its organic nature.

Source: www.theguardian.com

A carbon-rich dust shell near Wolf Raye 140 has been found by Webb

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Wolf Rayet 140 (also known as WR 140 or HD 193793) is a system of two massive stars located approximately 5,000 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus. As these stars swing against each other, the stellar winds from each collide, compressing material and forming carbon-rich dust. New observations from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope show that 17 dust shells glowing in the mid-infrared are expanding into the surrounding space at regular intervals.

This image of the carbon-rich Wolf-Rayet star WR 140 was taken by the Webb Mid-Infrared Observer (MIRI) in September 2023. Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / STScI / E. Lieb, University of Denver / R. Lau, NSF's NOIRLab / J. Hoffman, University of Denver.

“Webb confirmed that Wolf-Rayet 140's dust shell is real,” said Emma Reeve, a doctoral student at the university. “We have shown that there is a visible change in an incredibly short period of time.” Originally from Denver, Colorado.

“All of the shells are moving away from the star at more than 2,600 kilometers per second, which is almost 1% of the speed of light.”

“We're used to thinking of events in the universe as happening slowly over millions or billions of years,” said Jennifer Hoffman, a professor at the University of Denver.

“In this system, the observatory shows that the dust shell is expanding year by year.”

Dr Olivia Jones, an astronomer at the UK Astronomical Technology Center, said: “It's truly amazing to see the real-time movement of these shells during the Webb observations, which were made just 13 months apart.” Ta.

“These new results provide the first glimpse of the potential role of such giant binary stars as dust factories in the universe.”

Like clockwork, the star's winds generate dust for a few months every eight years. The pair approaches each other in a wide and long orbit.

The web also shows where dust stops forming. Look for the dark area in the top left of the image.

The telescope's mid-infrared images detected shells that have survived for more than 130 years. The old shells have dissipated enough that they are now too dark to detect.

Astronomers estimate that a star will eventually produce tens of thousands of dust shells over hundreds of thousands of years.

“The dust in this system is quite cold, so mid-infrared observations are absolutely critical to this analysis,” said Dr. Ryan Lau, an astronomer at the NSF NOIRLab.

“Near-infrared and visible-light observations only show the shells closest to the star.”

“With these amazing new details…
findings Published in Astrophysics Journal Letter.

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Emma P. Reeve others. 2025. Dynamic signature of dust formation due to wind impact from WR 140. APJL 979, L3; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ad9aa9

Source: www.sci.news

Anticipating Nintendo’s Switch 2 Annoucement: Enhanced Power, Magnetic Controllers, and Backwards Compatibility

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nintendo may announce its next console this week, a successor to the Nintendo Switch, which was released in March 2017 and sold 150 million units. There’s just one problem. That said, we already know almost everything about it. There is little that Nintendo can announce at this point that will come as a surprise to anyone who has been following the rumors closely.

Nintendo Switch 2 leaks started trickling in last summer and escalated to a flood this month. Last week, CES Technology Trade Show In Las Vegas, accessory maker Genki arrived with a complete model of Nintendo’s next console, which they were happy to show off behind closed doors to explain their upcoming product. You can also see detailed renderings on Genki’s website. It’s a slightly larger and more powerful version of the Switch console we know and love, with controllers that attach magnetically to the side of the screen rather than sliding in and out. Play while docked to your TV or on the go.

This is a very un-Nintendo approach. Aside from the NES/SNES, all of Nintendo’s consoles ushered in a revolution in form factors. There was the N64, with its pioneering analog sticks and three-pronged controller. GameCube looks like a stubby toy. Wii, motion control remote control included. Its successor, the Wii U, added a screen in the center of the controller. With the exception of the dual-screen DS and its successor, the 3DS, which added stereoscopic 3D to the console’s capabilities, this is the first time Nintendo has produced two consecutive consoles that look and act the same. They even share a name and logo. The most reliable information currently indicates that it will be called Nintendo Switch 2.

I won’t repeat any more details that were leaked about the Switch 2. They are easy to search and within the next day or so you can clearly see what is true and what is false. Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will share its back catalog with the Switch. This will allow all players to enjoy all the games they have purchased over the past eight years on their new console. We also know it won’t be out until April (June is my money), as it’s scheduled to come out in Nintendo’s next fiscal year. However, this is an unusual situation. We know almost everything about the console from gaming’s most secretive company even before it’s officially announced. How did it happen?

It was difficult to get a PS5 on release day. Photo: Charlie Tribalew/AFP/Getty Images

When the PlayStation 5 was released in 2020, the biggest talking point at the time was that people wouldn’t be able to get their hands on the PlayStation 5. Some customers who pre-ordered the PS5 received a package containing a bag of rice instead, but it was swapped with a vendor who was having trouble with the delivery chain. On eBay and other resale platforms, consoles were selling for two to three times the retail price. The supply-demand gap has dogged gaming consoles for at least the first two years, caused in part by manufacturing challenges during the pandemic. Nintendo probably wanted to avoid a similar situation.

We know that Nintendo’s manufacturing partners have been manufacturing parts for this console for a long time, over a year. The company aims to maintain large amounts of inventory in preparation for product launches. This is one of the reasons why so much information was leaked in advance. Various companies are already involved in the production of the Switch 2, and units and some units have been out for quite some time.

Nintendo also hasn’t gone after leakers or legally shut anything down in the way you might expect. The company’s only response to this deluge of unauthorized information, given to Japan’s Sankei Shimbun last week, was that “these images and videos are not official.” This suggests that Nintendo itself thought this might be inevitable. The company is delaying the announcement of its next console for as long as possible to preserve the survival of the phenomenally successful Switch, and said it doesn’t think these leaks will significantly damage its sales outlook.

The Switch 2 announcement will likely contain some surprises. What’s surprising is the rather un-Nintendo nature of this iterative console, and the piecemeal nature of what we’re discovering about it. Stay tuned for official announcements coming soon for more details.

what to play

Literally mow the grass. It’s literally just mowing the grass. Photo: Protostar

Effortless dad games for those who don’t want to spend time in the garden for a quiet January: It’s literally just mowing the grass. That’s exactly right. With a swipe, the small riding lawn mower eases its way through the ever-widening swathes of rough grass in your neighbor’s yard until the entire street is tidy. Cut the grass, collect hats, tap and admire different types of butterflies. It was my friend Patrick Klepek from the pro-gamer newsletter who brought this to my attention. cross play (We do a podcast together about navigating games with kids), and I was surprised to find myself playing it for a full 30 minutes straight. Am I getting old?

Available: iOS/Android

Estimated play time: 5 minutes or 1 hour, as long as you like

what to read

Dreams on a Pillow took 10 years to create. Photo: Rasheed Abueide

Games about Dreams on a Pillow 1948 Nakba Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh has reached his fundraising goal. I spoke to Abueide about the many obstacles he faced in trying to tell the Palestinian story through video games, challenges that no one should have to face.
Square Enix announces new policy The purpose is to protect staff from: Harassment by toxic fansit goes beyond restricting games and services for players who abuse support staff and developers.
Latest Great game in no time speed running event Last weekend, we raised more than $2.5 million for charity. A personal highlight was the Crazy Taxi player accompanied by a live pop-punk band.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

The Heart-wrenching Truth: Behind the Scenes of Family Vlogs | Documentary

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

IIn May 2020, popular video blogger parents Micah and James Stauffer emotionally shared with their nearly 1 million followers that they had decided to send their adopted son back to his home country of China. Huxley, a 5-year-old boy with autism, had been a central figure in their YouTube videos where they showcased their family life and partnerships with brands. Prior to the announcement in May 2020, their followers noticed that Huxley was gradually being phased out of their videos, with old content featuring him being removed and comments asking about him being deleted. The backlash against the Stauffers was swift and intense, criticizing them for exploiting Huxley for views and clicks and for their handling of the adoption process. The internet response included conspiracy theories and a frenzy of negative comments, creating a toxic environment of sensationalism and exploitation.

The HBO documentary series “An Update on Our Family” attempts to present a more nuanced and empathetic perspective on the Stauffer family’s story, steering away from the sensationalistic storytelling prevalent on the internet. The director, Rachel Mason, aims to offer insight and empathy while exploring the complexities of the situation. The series dives into the ethical considerations of storytelling and responsible filmmaking, addressing the challenges of navigating sensitive topics like the Stauffer family’s experience. Mason acknowledges the importance of ethical checks in documentary filmmaking to avoid exploitation and sensationalism.

The documentary highlights the challenges of family vlogging and the blurred lines between reality TV and online content creation. It explores the impact of technology on storytelling and the potential pitfalls of commercializing personal family experiences for online audiences. Through the stories of individuals who have navigated similar paths in the online world, the series sheds light on the complexities of sharing personal stories in a digital age. It also delves into the exploitative nature of online content creation and the lack of protections for content creators and their families.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/Q-sbt3TN6L4?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="An Update On Our Family | Official Trailer | HBO" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Mason’s documentary aims to humanize the individuals behind the stories, acknowledging the impact of public scrutiny and the need to protect the privacy and well-being of those involved. By exploring the complexities of family vlogging and online storytelling, the series invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships with social media and content consumption. It raises important questions about ethics, responsibility, and empathy in the digital age.

As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that the exploitation and sensationalism surrounding family vlogs have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the creators but also the individuals whose stories are shared online. By providing a platform for voices often marginalized in these narratives, Mason’s series offers a sobering look at the dangers of unchecked online content creation and the importance of ethical storytelling.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Zuckerberg cautions of a challenging year ahead, Meta to downsize workforce by thousands

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, is planning to reduce its global workforce by around 5%, with underperforming employees being the most likely to be let go.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg outlined in a memo to employees that due to what he referred to as a challenging year ahead, he has decided to prioritize performance management by letting go of poor performers quicker than usual and accelerating the company’s performance evaluation process.

As of September, Meta had 72,000 employees globally, and the planned job cuts could impact up to 3,600 employees. The company aims to fill the vacant positions later in the year.

The announcement comes shortly after Meta’s decision to end third-party fact-checking and emphasize free speech, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s imminent return to the White House. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program is also being terminated.

Employees in the US affected by the layoffs will be notified by February 10, with notifications for employees in other countries to follow later.

In the memo, Zuckerberg stated that he is raising the standards for performance management within the company: “We usually manage underperforming talent over a year, but this time we plan to make broader performance-based cuts during this cycle.”

The 40-year-old billionaire emphasized, “This will be an intense year. I want to ensure we have the best talent on the team.”

Employees being let go will be those who have been with Meta long enough to qualify for performance reviews.

Zuckerberg assured that the company will provide generous severance packages to those losing their jobs, similar to previous layoffs.

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Meta’s stock dropped 2.3% on Tuesday, continuing a decline that began the day before.

The company faced criticism for removing its fact checker, potentially allowing misinformation and harmful content to circulate on its platform.

Similar to other tech companies, Meta is investing in artificial intelligence projects, with a focus on crucial technologies like AI, as mentioned by Zuckerberg.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Elon Musk facing lawsuit from US government over undisclosed early Twitter stock purchase

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

U.S. financial regulators have charged Elon Musk with allegedly threatening other shareholders by not disclosing his ownership of Twitter shares and then acquiring the company’s shares at artificially low prices.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a lawsuit against Musk in federal court in Washington, D.C., accusing him of securities violations. The complaint states that Musk failed to disclose his 5% stake in the company in a timely manner and profited from the stock purchased after the filing deadline for ownership statements. The company ended up paying less than $1,000,000.

Musk purchased Twitter for $44 billion in 2022 and later rebranded the company as X. He acquired a 5% stake in the company before the purchase, which normally would require a public offering. The SEC claims that Musk disclosed his ownership on Twitter 11 days after the reporting deadline.

Musk’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, stated in an email that the SEC’s lawsuit is baseless, claiming that Musk did nothing wrong. This is not the first time Musk has been investigated by the SEC for his involvement with Twitter.

The SEC alleges that Musk delayed disclosing his ownership to the public and spent over $500 million on additional shares, potentially allowing the company to purchase stock at an artificially low price.

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Despite Musk disclosing his ownership to the SEC 11 days later, he stated that he had acquired more than 9% of Twitter’s stock. The SEC noted that Twitter’s stock price rose by over 27% on that day.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The New Science of Lie Detection: Uncovering the Truth about Spotting Lies

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

We are constantly detecting lies in our daily interactions. This could be a change in our partner’s tone of voice indicating hidden emotions, a child repeatedly looking at a forbidden present, or a colleague’s implausible story about missing petty cash at work.

Despite our ability to detect some lies, there are still instances where we fail to see through deception. Researchers have been investigating this phenomenon for over a century, with the latest studies offering new insights into the complexities of deception.

One recent significant study conducted by Associate Professor Timothy Luke and his team at the University of Gothenburg focused on analyzing the behaviors associated with lying. By delving into the nuances of deceit, they aimed to uncover the underlying processes of deception.

One key aspect highlighted by Luke is the distinction between “white” lies and deception, emphasizing that not all lies are equal. Deception involves deliberate attempts to mislead others, with various psychological factors influencing the complexity of deceit. Factors like communication style and length play crucial roles in distinguishing lies from truth.

While conventional beliefs suggest that liars exhibit behaviors like avoiding eye contact and nervousness, research findings from the Gothenburg study challenge these assumptions. Experts in the field of lie detection agree that gaze aversion and nervousness are not reliable indicators of deception.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images, Alamy. Image manipulation: Andy Potts.

Instead, experts suggest that the level of detail in the information provided can be a more reliable indicator of deception. People who lie tend to offer less detailed explanations compared to truth-tellers. Linguistic cues, such as inconsistencies in statements and evidence, also play a significant role in detecting deception.

When it comes to distinguishing truth from lies, researchers recommend employing a strategic approach that challenges inconsistencies in suspects’ narratives without direct accusations of lying. By presenting contradictory evidence and observing the suspect’s responses, investigators can uncover potential deception.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images, Alamy. Image manipulation: Andy Potts.

While traditional approaches to lie detection based on behavioral cues may be unreliable, focusing on individual characteristics and personal deceit patterns can offer more effective ways of uncovering lies. By examining linguistic patterns and analyzing personal deception models, researchers are improving their ability to detect deception effectively.

Ultimately, trust in one’s own investigative skills and evidence-based analysis is crucial in detecting lies. Fixed cues and generalizations may not always be accurate, emphasizing the importance of caution and critical thinking when assessing deceptive behaviors.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Ancient DNA analysis uncovers Ukraine’s intricate genetic history

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

To study the history of migration and movement in the Ukrainian region, with a particular focus on Iron Age and Medieval migrant populations, the scientists generated genomic data on 91 individuals from around 7000 BC to around 1800 AD. Their results show that ancient peoples had diverse ancestry as a result of frequent migration, assimilation, and contact.

A map showing the geographical location of the ancient figures included in the study and a chronology showing the dates of the figures in the archaeological group. Image credit: Saag others., doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr0695.

Over the centuries, migration has taken place in the steppe and forest-steppe regions of Ukraine in several directions.

These migrations were driven by a variety of processes, including cultural contacts and conflicts between tribes, trade, demographic pressures, and the expansion of nomadic areas of influence.

The main migration flows were from the Carpathian-Donabian region, the Southern Ural-Volga region, Central Asia and the North Caucasus, and intensive population movements also occurred within the territory of Ukraine.

At the end of the Bronze Age and the beginning of the Early Iron Age, the most notable archaeological activity in the northern Pontic Steppe was Cimmerian and military operations in Asia Minor.

The Cimmerians were followed by Scythians and SarmatiansEarly Iron Age political and military tribal confederations with various combinations of local and East Asian ancestry, as shown by previous ancient DNA (aDNA) studies. At this time, the northern Black Sea coast was covered with a network of urbanized Greek colonies.

In the forest-steppe region, the modern sedentary population is influenced by the former Tsinets culture (including the Lusatian and Vysotska cultures) and the central European influences of the Hallstatt and La Tène periods (Illyrians, Thracians, Celts). It was related.

According to written and archaeological sources, the peoples considered to be the predecessors of the Slavs were Zarbinetska culture — Already existed in the Ukrainian region from the 3rd century BC onwards, during the La Tène and Roman times.

The beginning of the era of migration in the Ukrainian region is associated with the arrival of Germanic tribes such as the Goths and the formation of a multiethnic state. Culture of Cherniahivwhich also included other ethnic groups that already lived in the area.

Between the 2nd and 4th centuries AD, the nomadic Huns of Central Asia emerged on the northern Pontic Steppe, and their westward migration brought about significant economic, cultural, and social changes in Europe.

This period is associated with the emergence of a new ethnolinguistic group, the Slavs, who spread across much of Eastern Europe between the 5th and 7th centuries AD.

From the 8th to the 10th century AD, large parts of Ukraine were under its control. Khazar Khaganate.

In Ukrainian archeology, this is expressed as follows: saltive cultureit is believed that it was shared among multiple ethnic groups (Alans, Bulgars, Turks, Slavs, Magyars, etc.).

At the same time, there was a process of unification of the Slavic tribes, and in the 9th century AD, Kiev Rus was formed.

The development of Slavic states took place against the background of constant nomadic invasions from the east.

Between the 11th and 13th centuries AD, waves of Pechenegs, Turks, and Cumans invaded the northern Pontic region from Central Asia. The most substantial invasion in terms of military power and results was that of the Mongols of the Golden Horde. 13th century AD.

By the 15th century AD, remnants of the Golden Horde, such as the Nogai, still lived in the steppes of northern Pontus.

Since the 16th century. In the Western era, Slavs were the majority ethnolinguistic group in the Ukrainian region.

“We decided to investigate the genetic ancestry of people who lived in the northern Pontic region during these times and were associated with different cultural groups,” said lead author of the study and co-author of the University of Tartu and University of Tartu. said Dr. Letty Saag, a researcher at College London. And my colleagues.

For the study, the authors extracted and sequenced DNA from tooth roots and bone fragments from 91 people at 33 archaeological sites in present-day Ukraine.

The sample included one Neolithic individual (7000–6000 BC), nine individuals from the Bronze Age and the beginning of the Final Bronze Age to the beginning of the Iron Age (3000–700 BC), and six individuals from the beginning of the Early Iron Age. contained the name (900-700 BC), 29 people of the Early Iron Age Scythian period (700-300 BC), 6 people of the Early Iron Age (700-300 BC), the end of the Iron Age (400-1 BC). , 12 from the Late Iron Age (1-400 AD), 9 from the Early Middle Ages (800-900 AD), and from the Middle Ages to B.C. 19 Early modern period (900 to 1800 AD).

Their DNA analysis shows that ancient peoples had diverse ancestry as a result of frequent migration, assimilation, and contact.

“From the Mesolithic to the time of the Vysotska and Vylozerska cultures at the end of the Bronze Age, the proportion of large-scale ancestry was similar to modern populations in other parts of Europe, first as hunter-gatherers and then as early farmers. and finally a mixture of the two: early farmers and steppe pastoralists,” the researchers said.

“From the Cimmerian period to the Middle Ages, the appearance of eastern nomads in the Pontic region became a common occurrence.”

“Their genetic make-up ranges from Yamuna-like superimposition on indigenous peoples, such as the Scythians and Cumans, to highly East Asian ancestry and minimal indigenous ancestry, such as the Alan Bulgars and Nogais. They ranged from mixed race to mixed race.”

“At that time, nomadic groups were recorded in the steppe regions, but the people of other parts of the Ukrainian region had mainly European ancestry, with connections to local ancestors and Thracians, Greeks, Goths, etc. there were.”

“The palincest of migration and population mixing in the Ukrainian region contributes to high genetic heterogeneity in geographically, culturally and socially homogeneous populations, and between individuals from the same place, at the same time, and with the same characteristics. “Different genetic profiles will exist,” they added.

“Our study focuses specifically on historically attested migrant populations rather than local populations, and the sampling is geographically biased primarily towards eastern Ukraine and temporally towards the Iron Age and Middle Ages. It is important to note that

“Nevertheless, a large local genetic profile similar to modern Ukrainians persists in the region through time and within this sample set.”

“This ancestral structure can be traced back at least to the Zurbunas, and is also found in the Vysotskas and Lusatians, the Scythians of the west, the modern agricultural peoples of the east, the Chernyahivs, and even the medieval and early modern Slavs.”

“We infer that there has been a major indigenous component in the ancestry of Ukrainians since at least the Bronze Age, although there are clear traces of high migration activity, including immigration from East Asia and extensive admixture. ”

of findings Featured in this week's diary scientific progress.

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Letty Thurg others. 2025. Crossroads of the Northern Pontus: Migration of Ukraine from the Bronze Age to the Early Modern Period. scientific progress 11(2);doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr0695

Source: www.sci.news

Archaeologists Uncover Potentially the Oldest 3D Map in the World

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Paleolithic rock shelter at Segonyol 3 in the Paris Basin contains a miniature representation of the surrounding landscape, according to a team of archaeologists from the University of Adelaide and Paris Mines Paris PSL.

Segonyol 3 3D map display on the floor of the rock shelter. Image credit: Médard Thiry.

The Segonyol 3 Rock Shelter has been known since the 1980s for its artistic carvings of two horses in Upper Paleolithic style on either side of a female pubic statue.

In 2017, archaeologists discovered that Paleolithic people manipulated sandstone to reflect the female figure, opening cracks that allowed water to seep into the sandstone, resulting in runoff at the base of the pelvic triangle. I discovered something.

A new study shows that some of the sandstone shelter floors were shaped and adapted by Paleolithic peoples about 13,000 years ago, and modeled to reflect the area’s natural water flow and topographic features. It suggests that it has been converted.

“What we have described is not a map of distance, direction, and travel time as we understand it today, but a three-dimensional map that depicts features of the landscape, such as outflows and confluences from uplands to streams and rivers. It’s a miniature of the original. Dr Anthony Milnes, an archaeologist at the University of Adelaide, said:

“Perception of the direction of water flow and landscape features may have been more important to Paleolithic people than modern concepts such as distance and time.”

“Our study shows that anthropogenic changes to the hydraulic behavior in and around the shelter have extended to modeling natural water flow in the landscape of areas surrounding rock shelters. “

“These are exceptional discoveries that clearly demonstrate the mental, imaginative and engineering abilities of our distant ancestors.”

Thanks to extensive research into the origins of the Fontainebleau sandstone, the authors recognized several minute morphological features that could not have formed naturally and suggest that they were modified by early humans. Masu.

“Our research showed that Paleolithic humans carved sandstone to facilitate specific flow channels for infiltrating and directing rainwater, something previously recognized by archaeologists.” said Dr. Medard Tilly of Paris Mines – PSL.

“Perhaps this metal fitting has a deeper mythical meaning related to water.”

“The two hydraulic installations, the sexual sculpture and the miniature landscape, are located 2-3 meters apart from each other and certainly convey the deep meaning of the concepts of life and nature that are never accessible to us.”

Researchers discovered the existence of three-dimensional modeling by looking closely at fine-scale geomorphological features.

“This brand new discovery provides a better understanding and insight into the capabilities of these early humans,” said Dr. Tilly.

Prior to this discovery, the oldest known three-dimensional maps were understood to be large portable rock slabs carved by Bronze Age people some 3,000 years ago.

The map depicts the local river network and embankments, and reflects the concept of more modern maps used for navigation.

“Collaboration across disciplines, such as archaeology, geology and geomorphology, is vitally important in science,” Dr Milnes said.

“We believe that the most productive research results are at the boundaries between disciplines.”

“It is important to reevaluate field studies and conduct frequent site visits,” Dr. Tilley said.

“It is clear from our ongoing projects that insights and interpretations do not emerge immediately, but through new observations and interdisciplinary discussions.”

This finding is reported in the following article: paper in Oxford Archeology Journal.

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Medard Tilly and Anthony Mills. 2025. Paleolithic map carved to show the flow of water to the shelters of the Paris Basin. Oxford Archeology Journal 44 (1): 2-26;doi: 10.1111/ojoa.12316

Source: www.sci.news

The new understanding of obesity may improve treatment for millions of individuals

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Measuring body fat more carefully may help treat obesity

Half Point/Getty Images

Rethinking how obesity is defined could help millions of people around the world, claims a team of researchers who want to introduce a new category of “preclinical” obesity.

The current definition of obesity as set by the World Health Organization (WHO) is having excess body fat that poses a risk to health. The WHO recommends that health professionals assess whether people are obese by calculating their body mass index (BMI), a measure of weight in relation to height. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, while anything below or above that indicates being under or overweight. A BMI of more than 30 indicates obesity.

It’s true that having a lot of body fat can cause fat to infiltrate organs such as the liver and pancreas. impair function. It can also worsen inflammation and increase the risk of diseases such as cancer, liver disease, and heart disease.

However, BMI does not reflect a person’s body fat level very well. “BMI does not tell you whether that ‘excess’ weight is due to excess body fat or increased muscle and bone mass,” he says. Francesco Rubino He led research on obesity at King’s College, London.

Body fat levels, even when properly assessed by waist measurements or, in rare cases, X-ray scans, do not completely determine a person’s health status. “No two people react the same way to excess body fat. This is influenced by a person’s race/ethnicity, age, and the food they eat, with genetics playing a huge role.” says. stephen heimsfield at Louisiana State University.

That’s why Rubino and his colleagues want to introduce more nuance to the definition of obesity, separating cases into preclinical and clinical cases. Although both forms are characterized by excess body fat, only the clinical form is associated with symptoms caused by excess fat, such as difficulty breathing, heart problems, and difficulty with daily activities. Preclinical obesity, on the other hand, increases the risk of eventually developing such obesity-related symptoms, Rubino says.

This is similar to prediabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as full-blown type 2 diabetes, Rubino said.

Under the proposed changes, medical staff would use waist width and X-rays in addition to BMI calculations to directly measure people’s body fat levels, but people with a BMI over 40 would always be overweight. It will be considered fatty. Blood tests are then used to assess organ health and people are asked if they have symptoms. Blood tests are routinely done by many clinicians anyway, but directly measuring body fat would add some workload, Heimsfield says.

If the new definition is widely adopted by clinicians, it could mean people will receive more personalized advice and treatment, Rubino said. In general, people with pre-clinical obesity may only need to monitor their health and make lifestyle changes, while those with clinical obesity are more likely to need treatment with drugs or surgery, Rubino said. say.

“This allows us to better triage people and get them the right care,” he says. Adrian Brown At University College London.

Laura Gray Researchers at the University of Sheffield in the UK also welcomed the proposed changes. “It’s very necessary. These guidelines put what current research says into clinical practice,” she says. “Not all people who are obese according to their BMI are unhealthy, and not all people with a low BMI are healthy.”

This updated definition has already been endorsed by 76 health organizations around the world and may also help reduce the stigma surrounding the condition. “The hope is that by defining obesity in a more nuanced way, we will be able to show that it is a disease in itself. It is not just the result of behavior, but there are many risk factors, including environmental, psychological, and genetic. ” says Gray.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

SpaceX Plans to Send Two Lunar Landers to the Moon

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The commencement of the new year for lunar exploration is set to take place early Wednesday, as two robotic landers and a small rover are poised to embark on their journey to the moon.

A SpaceX rocket is scheduled for liftoff from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 1:11 a.m. ET, launching two separate unmanned missions to the lunar surface.

The first mission, developed by Texas-based company Firefly Aerospace, aims to land the Blue Ghost lander in an area of the moon known as Mare Crisium—a 340-mile-wide basin believed to be the result of an ancient asteroid impact.

The second mission, conducted by Japanese company ispace, consists of a lander named Resilience and a “micro probe” called Tenacious, targeting a landing site in an area called Mare Frigoris in the moon’s northern region.

This will be ispace’s second attempt to land a spacecraft on the moon, following a failed 2023 mission when the lander Hakuto crashed due to unexpected acceleration during descent.

A model of ispace Inc.’s lunar rover Tenacious at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Space Center in Tsukuba.
Toru Hanai/Bloomberg, from Getty Images files

The ispace lander and rover are expected to take a longer and less energy-intensive path to the moon compared to Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost lander, with a 45-day journey time and an estimated arrival in four to five months.

Blue Ghost will transport 10 NASA scientific instruments to the moon and spend approximately two weeks collecting data on the lunar surface.

The mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services Initiative, which involves NASA partnering with private companies to deliver scientific experiments, technology, and other cargo to the lunar surface.

These endeavors are within NASA’s broader Artemis program, which aims at the eventual return of humans to the moon.

Nicola Fox, associate administrator for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, mentioned that the Blue Ghost lander mission will provide crucial insights for forthcoming Artemis expeditions involving astronaut crews.

For instance, details about the moon’s landscape and topography, including the conditions at the moon’s south pole—the designated landing spot for the manned Artemis mission—might be unveiled.

“This is a strategically significant and productive site, and we anticipate future astronaut explorers using their expertise to gather scientifically intriguing samples and bring them back to Earth,” Fox stated at a press conference on Tuesday.

The scientific equipment carried by Blue Ghost includes tools for precise measurement of the Earth-Moon distance, lunar dust study, and collection and analysis of lunar soil samples using a jet of compressed gas.

“Each accomplishment along the way will yield valuable data for upcoming missions, benefiting the United States and keeping our international collaborators at the forefront of space exploration,” Fox added.

SpaceX did not disclose the amount paid by the companies for the joint trip to orbit.

The plan involves the release of the Blue Ghost lander approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes post liftoff, followed by the ispace lander and rover about 30 minutes later, as per NASA’s NASA science mission director Juliana Shaiman.

a NASA broadcasts Falcon 9 rocket launch It commences at 12:30 a.m. ET.

Forecasts indicate a 90% likelihood of favorable weather for launch, with backup opportunities available until Jan. 20, according to SpaceX officials.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Researchers claim that Google Scholar is inundated with scientific papers produced by GPT through fabrication.

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In new research Published in Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review, researchers from Borås University, Lund University, and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences found a total of 139 papers suspected of exploiting ChatGPT or similar large-scale language modeling applications. Of these, 19 were published in indexed journals, 89 were published in non-indexed journals, 19 were student papers in university databases, and 12 were research papers (mostly in preprint databases). Health and environment papers accounted for approximately 34% of the sample, with 66% of them published in unindexed journals.

A rain of words in dubious full-text papers fabricated by environment and health-related GPTs. Image credit: Haider others., doi: 10.37016/mr-2020-156.

Using ChatGPT to generate text for academic papers has raised concerns about research integrity.

Discussion about this phenomenon is ongoing in editorials, commentaries, opinion pieces, and social media.

There are currently several lists of papers suspected of exploiting GPT, and new papers are being added all the time.

Although there are many legitimate uses of GPT for research and academic writing, its undeclared uses beyond proofreading may have far-reaching implications for both science and society, especially the relationship between the two.

“One of the main concerns about AI-generated research is the increased risk of evidence hacking, meaning that fake research could be used for strategic manipulation,” said Björn Ekström, a researcher at the University of Boras.

“This could have a tangible impact, as erroneous results could penetrate further into society and into more areas.”

In their research, Dr. Ekström and his colleagues searched and scraped Google Scholar for papers containing specific phrases known as common responses from ChatGPT and similar applications with the same underlying model. Unable to access real-time data.

This facilitated the identification of papers whose text may have been generated using generative AI, resulting in a search of 227 papers.

Of these papers, 88 papers were written with legal and/or declared uses of GPT, and 139 papers were written with undeclared and/or fraudulent uses.

The majority of problematic papers (57%) dealt with policy-relevant subjects that are likely to impact operations (i.e., environment, health, computing).

Most were available in multiple copies on different domains (social media, archives, repositories, etc.).

Professor Jutta Haider from Borås University said: “If we cannot trust that the studies we read are genuine, we run the risk of making decisions based on misinformation.”

“But this is as much a media and information literacy issue as it is a scientific misconduct issue.”

“Google Scholar is not an academic database,” she pointed out.

“Search engines are easy to use and fast, but they lack quality assurance procedures.”

“This is already a problem with regular Google search results, but it becomes even more of a problem when making science more accessible.”

“People's ability to decide which journals and publishers publish high-quality, reviewed research is critical to finding and determining what is trustworthy research, and is important for decision-making and opinion. It is very important for formation.”

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Jutta Haider others. 2024. GPT Fabricated Scientific Papers on Google Scholar: Key Features, Pervasiveness, and Impact on Preemptive Attacks of Evidence Manipulation. Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review 5(5);doi: 10.37016/mr-2020-156

Source: www.sci.news

UK watchdog examining Google’s search dominance

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Google is currently under investigation by Britain’s competition watchdog regarding the effects of its search and advertising practices on consumers, news publishers, businesses, and other search engines.

The Competition and Markets Authority reports that Google dominates over 90% of general searches in the UK.

The CMA estimates that search advertising costs UK households nearly £500 annually, but competition can help lower this cost.

The CMA has announced an investigation to determine if Google is hindering competition in the market and engaging in potentially exploitative practices, such as collecting large amounts of consumer data without informed consent.

Additionally, the investigation will assess if Google is unfairly promoting its shopping and travel services using its dominant search engine position.

The investigation is expected to last up to nine months, during which Google will be required to share data with other companies and provide publishers with more control over their content.

This investigation marks the first under the new digital market competition regulations in the UK, enabling authorities to impose conduct requirements on technology companies.

Pressure from the US to regulate tech companies has been increasing leading up to President Trump’s inauguration. Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg criticized European laws and expressed intentions to work with the new US administration to protect American companies.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has plans to integrate AI into the UK economy and establish partnerships with AI companies with a pro-growth approach to regulation.

The EU is reportedly reevaluating its investigations into US tech giants, including Google, Meta, and Apple, under digital market regulations, potentially altering the scope of the probes.

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The CMA’s investigation will examine the impact of Google’s search, advertising platform, and AI assistant.

CMA Chief Executive Sara Cardel emphasized the importance of fair competition and consumer rights in search services and data privacy.

Google has responded by stating that search is crucial for economic growth and they will collaborate with the CMA to ensure compliance with new regulations.

Source: www.theguardian.com

British women discuss their journey with fertility tracking app

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

aAfter utilizing birth control pills for a span of 15 years, Francesca* made the decision to explore how her body would respond without the influence of hormones. She opted to use a fertility tracking app (which monitors menstrual cycles and ovulation symptoms to predict the most fertile window for conception) after discovering it through social media channels.

“I have been on hormone medication since my teenage years, but as an adult, I lacked awareness of my menstrual cycle,” shared the woman from London, now in her early 30s. She was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) at 18 and advised to continue hormone therapy to manage her symptoms. “Surprisingly, upon discontinuing the pill, most of my hormonal imbalance symptoms reduced significantly,” she recounted.

Initially, she found the app to be a beneficial tool. She diligently followed the instructions and even supplemented with ovulation tests for added precaution. “I felt a newfound sense of control over my menstrual cycle and body,” she noted.

However, after eight months, she encountered an unplanned pregnancy that led to a “traumatic” abortion. Believing it was due to human error, she resumed using the app, only to conceive again five months later. “Looking back, every time [these apps] are discussed, I feel compelled to caution others against their claims endorsed on online platforms and social media,” she emphasized. “We strongly advise exercising caution if relying solely on them for contraception.”

Francesca’s experience with fertility apps aligns with reports indicating an increasing number of women in England and Wales transitioning from traditional birth control methods like the pill to fertility tracking apps, heightening the risk of unintended pregnancies. She was among those who reached out to The Guardian to share her story.

She wasn’t alone in recounting experiencing an unwanted pregnancy while using a fertility tracker, although some women successfully leveraged the app to either avoid or achieve pregnancy. Testimonials varied, with some describing the app as “lifesaving” and “liberating.”

Notable in the shared experiences was the recurring theme of women feeling underserved by the healthcare system, despite the launch of the new Women’s Health Strategy in July 2022. “There’s a pervasive sentiment among many UK women that general practitioners often lack adequate training in women’s reproductive health,” Francesca observed. “[These apps] underscore these concerns and gaps in care.”

Other readers highlighted their positive encounters with the app. Sarah*, a 38-year-old from Yorkshire, relied on the app for contraception over 18 months and later for conception with her partner. She battled severe depression during certain phases of her menstrual cycle when off medication but found relief through the app.

“Staying off medication feels empowering,” she expressed. “I was prescribed it at 15 for menstrual complications, realizing in hindsight that it merely suppressed my cycle without addressing the underlying issues. It’s frustrating. Now, I take pride in monitoring my menstrual cycle. Thanks to the fertility app and my knowledge, I comprehend my body’s monthly rhythms. I no longer feel in conflict with my body.”

She and her partner weathered hardships over the past 15 months, enduring two early miscarriages and a medically necessitated termination. Nevertheless, the app provided solace. “The NHS advocates regular unprotected intercourse every few days, which can feel burdensome after 18 months of trying,” she reflected. “Moreover, observing my data recovery in the app imbues me with a sense of agency in healing after loss.”

Olivia, 30, from Leeds, discovered she had PCOS and was advised to shed weight prior to initiating pill-based treatment. Disenchanted with the contraceptive’s potential side effects, Olivia sought alternative birth control methods. She felt her doctor’s response lacked empathy and seemed scripted when discussing contraceptive options, prompting her to explore a different path.

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“I’ve been tracking my periods for over a decade. The familiarity with my condition proved invaluable after the PCOS diagnosis,” Olivia explained. “It enabled me to anticipate and interpret my body’s signals effectively. And now, I’m expecting my first child.”

Hannah, 50, from Aberystwyth. regarded the fertility tracking app as “liberating” post decades of employing condoms and copper coils for contraception with her three children.

“I refrained from hormonal contraceptives like the pill throughout, deeming them unnatural,” she shared. “Thanks to the app, I now engage in intercourse confidently during specified times each month without harboring anxieties about mishaps.”

*Name has been altered

Source: www.theguardian.com

Studies indicate that Jupiter’s clouds are made up of ammonium bisulfide

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have long believed that Jupiter's upper clouds, which form the planet's iconic light brown bands, are made of frozen ammonia. But new research shows that these clouds are actually lower in the atmosphere than we thought, and are made of ammonium bisulfide mixed with smog.

Hubble's photos of Jupiter show an ever-changing landscape due to its turbulent atmosphere. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Amy Simon, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center / Michael H. Wong, University of California, Berkeley / Joseph DePasquale, STScI.

Citizen scientist Steve Hill has previously shown that it is possible to map a planet's atmosphere using just a special colored filter and a backyard telescope.

These results provided the first clue that the clouds are too deep in Jupiter's warm atmosphere to match clouds made of ammonia ice.

To find out, Hill and a team of professional astronomers from the University of Oxford, the University of Leicester and the British Astronomical Society used the MUSE instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT) to study the atmospheres of gas giant planets. did.

“MUSE will be able to scan Jupiter's atmosphere at different wavelengths and map the different molecules that make up Jupiter's atmosphere,” they said.

Their study shows that a new approach using backyard telescopes or VLT/MUSE can map the abundance of ammonia in Jupiter's atmosphere with remarkable accuracy.

In terms of clouds, they concluded that Jupiter's atmosphere closely resembles a layered cake.

A cloud of ammonium hydrosulfide covers the upper layer, but decorations of ammonia ice clouds carried to the top by strong vertical convection can also be seen.

However, the overall structure of the cake is still not fully understood, and the work of citizen scientists may be the key to figuring it out.

So the next time you gaze at Jupiter or Saturn from your backyard, you just might be uncovering some hidden secrets in our solar system.

“We tested the reliability of the filter imaging technique by applying it to VLT/MUSE observations of Jupiter and found that the method closely matches more sophisticated analyzes of these observations and is also consistent with observations of Jupiter.” We have shown that the microwave wavelengths studied by NASA's Juno spacecraft and the Super Large Array yield surprisingly reliable results,” the astronomers said.

“We show that the main reflection level at red wavelengths is at the 2-3 bar level, which is much lower than the expected ammonia ice cloud condensation level of 0.7 bar, and the ammonia We conclude that ice cannot be the main cloud component.”

“We also showed that the same technique can be applied to MUSE observations of Saturn, where extracted ammonia maps were measured by NASA's Cassini spacecraft and the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope at pressures greater than 2 We found a very good agreement with the ammonia abundance.

of findings will appear in Geophysical Research Journal: Planets.

_____

Patrick G.J. Irwin others. 2025. Clouds and ammonia in the atmospheres of Jupiter and Saturn are determined from band depth analysis of VLT/MUSE observations. JGR Planets 130 (1): e2024JE008622;doi: 10.1029/2024JE008622

Source: www.sci.news

Mysterious X-ray oscillations detected in supermassive black hole by XMM-Newton

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 2018, astronomers discovered that the corona of 1ES 1927+654, an actively accreting black hole with 1.4 million solar masses located in a galaxy some 270 million light-years away, suddenly disappeared and reassembled several months later. I observed that. The short but dramatic outage was the first of its kind in black hole astronomy. Now, astronomers using ESA's XMM-Newton Observatory have captured the same black hole exhibiting even more unprecedented behavior. They detected X-ray flashes from 1ES 1927+654 at a steadily increasing clip. Over a two-year period, the frequency of millihertz vibration flashes increased from every 18 minutes to every 7 minutes. This dramatic speed-up of X-rays has never been observed from a black hole before.

In this artist's concept, material is stripped from a white dwarf (bottom right sphere) orbiting within the innermost accretion disk surrounding the supermassive black hole of 1ES 1927+654. Image credit: NASA/Aurore Simonnet, Sonoma State University.

Black holes are a prediction of Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity. They are gravitational monsters that trap any matter or energy that crosses their “surface,” a region of spacetime known as the event horizon.

In its final descent into the black hole, a process known as accretion, the doomed material forms a disk around the black hole. The gas in the accretion disk heats up and emits primarily ultraviolet (UV) light.

The ultraviolet light interacts with the cloud of electrically charged gas or plasma that surrounds the black hole and accretion disk. This cloud is known as the corona, and the interaction energizes the ultraviolet light and amplifies it into X-rays, which can be captured by XMM Newton.

XMM-Newton has been observing 1ES 1927+654 since 2011. Back then, everything was very normal.

But things changed in 2018. As the X-ray corona disappeared, the black hole erupted in a massive explosion that seemed to disrupt its surroundings.

The coronavirus gradually returned, and by early 2021, it seemed like normal conditions had returned.

However, in July 2022, XMM Newton began observing its X-ray output fluctuating at a level of about 10% on timescales of 400 to 1,000 seconds.

This type of fluctuation, called quasi-periodic oscillations (QPO), is notoriously difficult to detect in supermassive black holes.

“This was the first sign that something strange was going on,” said Dr. Megan Masterson. Student at MIT.

The oscillations could suggest that a massive object, such as a star, is embedded in the accretion disk and rapidly orbiting the black hole on its way to being swallowed.

As an object approaches a black hole, the time it takes to orbit decreases and the frequency of its oscillations increases.

Calculations revealed that the orbiting object was probably the remains of a star known as a white dwarf, had about 0.1 times the mass of the Sun, and was moving at an astonishing speed.

It was completing one orbit of the central monster, covering a distance of about 100 million km, about every 18 minutes. Then things got even weirder.

Over nearly two years, XMM Newton showed an increase in the strength and frequency of the vibrations, but not as much as the researchers expected.

They assumed that an object's orbital energy is being emitted as gravitational waves, as prescribed by the theory of general relativity.

To test this idea, they calculated when the object crossed the event horizon, disappeared from view, and stopped oscillating. It turns out to be January 4, 2024.

“Never in my career have I been able to predict anything so accurately,” says Dr. Erin Kara of MIT.

In March 2024, XMM Newton observed it again and the oscillations were still present.

The object was currently traveling at about half the speed of light, completing an orbit every seven minutes.

Whatever was inside the accretion disk, it stubbornly refused to be swallowed up by the black hole.

Either something more than gravitational waves is at play, or the entire hypothesis needs to be changed.

Astronomers also considered other possibilities for the origin of the vibrations.

Remembering that the X-ray corona disappeared in 2018, they wondered if this cloud itself was vibrating.

The problem is that there is no established theory to explain such behavior, so there is no clear path to take this idea further, so they go back to the original model and realize there is a way to fix it. I did.

“If the black hole has a white dwarf companion, the gravitational waves produced by the black hole could be detected by LISA, an ESA mission scheduled to launch within the next 10 years in partnership with NASA.” said Masterson.

team's paper will appear in journal nature.

_____

Megan Masterson others. 2025. Millihertz oscillations near the innermost orbit of a supermassive black hole. naturein press. arXiv: 2501.01581

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient silver coins dating back 1,000 years discovered in Britain’s treasure trove

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

An archaeologist from Oxford Cotswold Archeology (OCA) has made an exciting discovery of 321 11th-century AD silver coins (319 full pennies and 2 cut halfpence) in mint condition near the site of a future nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast. This finding sheds light on the social and political unrest of the 11th century and suggests that the change of government following the coronation of Edward the Confessor in 1042 caused significant turmoil among the population. This collection may have belonged to a local influential figure who felt threatened by the political changes and chose to bury his wealth as a precaution.

A treasure trove of 1,000-year-old silver coins. Image credit: Oxford Cotswold Archaeology.

The newly discovered cache of coins was carefully wrapped in cloth and lead.

The coins in the hoard were issued during the reigns of Harold I “Rabbit’s Foot” (1036-1040), Harthacnut (1040-2), and Edward the Confessor (1042-1066).

Most of the coins date back to the reign of Harold I, with Harthacnut issuing significantly fewer, and only 24 issued by Edward the Confessor.

While the majority of coins were minted in London, some were also minted in Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Stamford.

A few coins were issued by smaller mints such as Langport and Uxbridge in southwest England, making them extremely rare.

“This hoard of coins offers a valuable glimpse into the historical context of that era, indicating that Edward the Confessor’s ascension to the throne was a time of uncertainty and societal unrest. This further supports the idea that it was a period marked by apprehensions,” said Alexander, a coin expert from OCA.

“The analysis of this coin hoard was a collaborative effort involving experts in numismatics, finds, conservation, and project partners.”

“It is a privilege to contribute to bringing this story to life.”

Despite representing considerable wealth for the time, these coins likely belonged to individuals of moderate status rather than high-ranking individuals.

They were probably a savings pot of a local influencer and were roughly equivalent in value to a small herd of cattle at that time.

“The hoard was affectionately named Masu for obvious reasons, so discovering it was truly an honor,” said OCA archaeologist Andrew Pegg.

“When I unearthed it, I saw the edge of a coin peeking out, and I was amazed!”

“It’s an impeccable archaeological time capsule,” he added.

“The insights we’re gaining from it are remarkable, and I am proud to contribute to the history of my corner of Suffolk.”

The mid-11th century in England was a period of uncertainty and shifting loyalties.

Edward the Confessor’s coronation in 1042 followed over 25 years of rule by Danish kings Canute, Harold, and Harthacnut. This event reinstated the House of Wessex on the English throne.

The change in leadership likely sparked uncertainty and apprehension among the populace.

Specifically, some affluent individuals connected to the previous regime were either exiled or had their assets seized after Edward’s coronation.

The hoard’s owner may have buried his wealth in fear of political changes, hoping to retrieve it later as a safety net.

“We may never fully understand why this treasure was left undiscovered,” concluded the archaeologists.

“The discovery of an 11th-century coin hoard is truly extraordinary,” said Damien Leydon, Site Delivery Director at Sizewell C.

Source: www.sci.news

Can innovative wearable technology enhance mental health?

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“I achieved 40 seconds of uninterrupted concentration.”

Apparently, this is cause for celebration. For the past 10 minutes, I've been staring at my phone, trying to move a digital ball up a hill using only the power of my mind. The Mendi headset I wear analyzes my brain activity and reflects it in my games. The more you concentrate, the higher the ball will rise.

This exercise is thought to work your mental muscles, just like using weights to train your physical muscles, ultimately increasing your focus and reducing stress.

Like thousands of other people, I've been wearing smartwatches for years to help me track my fitness and improve my physical health. But the wearables industry has set its sights on a new target: mental health. We now have smart watches and brainwave-reading devices that not only analyze the state of our nervous systems, but perhaps intervene proactively to improve our well-being, and we now have mental health support. We're making it more accessible and wearable than ever before. “We're harnessing the brain's ability to rewire itself so that we can have more control over our emotions,” he says. Mustafa Hamada Mendi Chief Product and Scientific Officer.

As someone who suffers from stress and anxiety, I'm willing to try anything that helps me control it. But I have a background in neuroscience, so I’m wary of believing the hype. So I took a closer look at the growing number of devices targeting concentration, concentration, stress and anxiety to find out how they work and which ones actually make a difference…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Vietnamese delicacy dubbed Darth Vader Isopod due to its size

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Head of Batinomus Vaderi, Newly named marine isopod

Nguyen Thanh Son

A new species of large crustacean found off the coast of Vietnam has been named after Darth Vader.

Batinomus Vaderi It is a type of isopod, a group that also includes woodlice. The body length can be 30 centimeters and the weight can exceed 1 kilogram.

So far, the new species has only been discovered by fishermen trawling near the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Peter Ng Professors from the National University of Singapore analyzed four specimens obtained from a fish store in Quy Nhon, in south-central Vietnam. Locals call them “sea worms”.

Researcher Peter Ng investigates giant isopods at a seafood market in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Nguyen Thanh Son

Ng said the researchers chose this name for the species not only because of its resemblance to Darth Vader’s mask, but also because the creature lives in constant darkness at depths of 800 to 1,200 meters. This is also because it is believed that

“I’m the biggest star wars It’s my vintage so I’m a fan of the team. The first movie was in 1977, during my youth, and it was really cool,” Ng says. “But we all know that face batinomus He looks so much like Darth Vader that they had to name him after the Sith Lord. ”

The isopod has been a popular seafood delicacy in Vietnamese restaurants since 2017, and is said to be as delicious as lobster.

However, little is known about their ecology and how trawling affects their populations, team members say. Koni Sidaba Rock At the National Research and Innovation Agency in Cibinong, Indonesia.

“The size of the harvest is a concern. This is a challenge for all the deep-sea fish we fish,” she says. “Little is known about their ecology, so further research is needed to assess how best to conserve and manage this resource.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Blue Ghost and Resilience landers launched by SpaceX to the moon

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s impression of the Blue Ghost’s moon landing

firefly aerospace

In a sign of increased commercial activity on the moon, two private spacecraft aiming to land on the moon will be launched aboard a SpaceX rocket.

Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost lander and iSpace’s Resilience lander, both aboard the same Falcon 9 rocket, departed from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 6:11 a.m. on January 15. It is scheduled to launch at 1:11 a.m. Greenwich Mean Time (1:11 a.m. ET).

This launch will be iSpace’s second attempt to land on the moon. The company suffered its first failure in 2023 when its Hakuto-R spacecraft crashed into the moon’s surface. The Japanese company has since said it has upgraded Resilience’s hardware and software to avoid the mistakes that led to the crash.

Meanwhile, the American company Firefly Aerospace is making its first attempt. The company has a contract with NASA as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, which pays private companies to accomplish scientific goals.

Resilience will carry six payloads to the lunar surface, including an experiment to use microalgae to produce food on the moon, and a micro rover that will roam, analyze, and photograph the landing area. Blue Ghost will combine 10 civilian and public payloads, including a radiation-hardened computer, a drill to measure how heat flows across the moon’s surface, and a satellite receiver that will seek to establish a permanent link with the moon. We plan to take it to the moon. Earth’s GPS network.

Resilience Lunar Module is ready for launch

iSpace

Both missions reach Earth orbit relatively quickly, within minutes of liftoff, but it takes much longer to reach the Moon. After orbiting Earth for 25 days, Blue Ghost will start its engines and begin a four-day journey to the Moon, where it will orbit for 16 days. After this, it will descend autonomously and land on a plain called Mare Crisium, where it will take two weeks to complete its scientific objectives.

Resilience will take a more circuitous route, passing the moon a month after launch, gliding deep into space for several months, then turning around and making the journey back to the moon. Once in orbit, the spacecraft is expected to land on a plain called Mare Frigoris within four to five months of launch.

If the mission is successful, they will be the second and third commercial spacecraft to land on the moon. The first craft was Intuitive Machines’ Odysseus lander, which landed last year.

Blue Ghost and Resilience are the first of about a dozen spacecraft hoping to make contact with lunar soil this year, primarily by NASA’s CLPS, many of which will serve as future human lunar surface residents. It is designed to test and demonstrate the technology required for These include the second and third missions of Intuitive Machines. IM-2 will explore digging buried ice near the moon’s south pole for use in future missions, as well as deploying two rovers and a lunar satellite to communicate with Earth.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Essential Winter Running Gear to Conquer the Cold

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

I
If you’re tempted to give up running or hit the gym in the winter, think again. Whether you’re heading out for some fresh air and sunshine on a crisp blue-sky day, or blowing away cobwebs in the rainy darkness after work, running outdoors can make winter more bearable.

A few changes to your outfit and some clever accessories can help you stay warm, dry, and safer. Not all of the following are required. It depends on where you’re going, how far you’re going, and what time of day you’re going. Everything featured is unisex or has versions for women and men.

best winter running gear

protective headgear

Arc’teryx Norvan balaclava

_{£65 at Arc’teryx}

Buff reflex DryFlx beanie hat

_{£21.07 on Amazon}

_{£21.95 in buff}

Wearing proper headgear can save you a run when the wind is blowing strongly or the temperature is very cold. The Arc’teryx Merino Balaclava can be worn around the neck, pulled up over the mouth, or as a balaclava that wraps around the ears and forehead. The top is open for ventilation. If you want full head coverage, you can also wear a Buff beanie. Both are highly reflective, breathable, and quick drying.

chest light

Provis chest light

_{£29.99 at Provis}

_{£34.99 on Amazon}

Wearing a chest light gives you the chance to see bikes, cars, and people long before they can reach you in the dark. This is especially important in areas without street lighting. It has super-bright 500 lumen front and backlights (white full, half, or low beam on the front, slow blinking red on the back), and a USB rechargeable battery that lasts 3 hours. The elastic, adjustable strap has Proviz 360 reflectance, which creates a dazzling shine when the light hits it.

bone conduction headphones

Shokz OpenPro2 headphones

_{£169 at Shokz}

_{£169 on Amazon}

If you can’t live without music or podcasts while running, but don’t want to lose awareness of your surroundings in the dark, bone conduction headphones are the perfect solution. Sound is conducted through the temporal bones at the sides and bottom of the skull, so you can hear cars, bikes, and people while immersing yourself in listening. This also eliminates the problem of earphones falling from sweaty ears.

If you’ve never tried it before, you’ll be amazed at the magic of hearing music as clearly as if it were through earphones. The sound quality on this wireless pair is great.

backpack cover

Provis backpack cover

_{£34.99 at Provis}

_{£45.50 at Decathlon}

If you’re a running commuter, you could buy a high-vis reflective backpack for those dark mornings and evenings, but this reversible cover is an inexpensive hack that you can slip over your existing backpack and enjoy its benefits. With its high reflectance, it lights up your body like a Christmas tree. Keeps the bag and its contents dry even when it rains.

technical base layer

love bridge line Long sleeve base layer for women

_{£59.99 on sports shoes}

_{£59.99 at Base Camp Gear}

love bridge line men’s long sleeve base layer

_{£59.99 on sports shoes}

_{£60 on Amazon}

Layering is key when running in the winter. A good quality technical baselayer and midlayer for the first few miles, combined with a running jacket (see below) if it’s wet or very windy, will keep you warm and sweat-free. can. You can delete either of the top two if you wish.

These baselayers are designed for mountain running, but are equally useful for urban runs. It’s made from breathable fabric with small vents in well-placed locations to quickly wick away sweat and moisture, and a deep chest zipper if you get too hot.

running jacket

asics metalan mens waterproof jacket

_{£142.99 in sports shoes}

_{£151 at Asics}

ASICS Metalan Women’s Waterproof Jacket

_{£120 at Sports Direct}

_{£151 at Asics}

If you’re going for a short 20-minute run in the rain, you can probably do without a running jacket. However, if you’re running long distances, a flexible, breathable technical running jacket is a wise investment for rainy and windy days.

This well-designed jacket packs into its own chest pocket, making it easy to store away when you don’t need it. It’s completely waterproof, so you can go out even during long downpours. It also switches around the bottom and hood to create a seal around the body. It’s also made from 50% recycled materials. A good running jacket will last for years if properly cared for.

running gloves

Limb Maze Runner gloves

_{£22.95 at Outdoor Action}

_{£25.50 at Mountain Warehouse}

Sealskins Wolferton running gloves

_{£40 at Sealskins}

Cold hands and feet can ruin your winter run. Even if your face and body are hot, the wind will keep your hands cold. Regular gloves are cumbersome and make your hands sweaty, but running gloves are breathable and flexible.

These Extremities gloves feature superior insulation and reflective details. Sealskinz are water-repellent and have nifty retractable mittens that you can wear over your fingers on especially cold days. Both are touchscreen compatible, so you can keep your gloves on while using your smartphone.

warm socks

Sealskins Hillgay running socks

_{£18 at Sealskins}

_{£18 on Amazon}

For the other extremities, merino running socks will keep your feet comfortable without overheating and will quickly wick away moisture if they get wet. These are thicker than summer socks and reach mid-calf. In winter you can’t bare your ankles.

tracker device

Tile Pro

_{£34.99 on Tiles}

_{£27.99 on Amazon}

Running before and after work inevitably means running in the dark, but this Tile Bluetooth tracker gives you some peace of mind. Tile has partnered Life 360 is a safety app that shows your loved ones exactly where you are, so you can now use tiles to discreetly trigger SOS alerts. Press the button three times and your contacts will be asked to confirm their location. and Gold or Platinum membership Life360 allows you to dispatch emergency services to your exact location.

The tiles are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, so you can run with them or shove them in your pocket, and they have a range of 500 feet. Adding tiles can also save you tons of time spent looking for your keys or phone before heading out for a run.

hybrid running shoes

www.theguardian.com

Actually, you can downgrade your device and live without a smartphone: A practical guide

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

I I’ve spent many years of my life online. I almost crashed my car because I was composing a message. Losing my data connection caused me to have a panic attack. I scrolled for hours and couldn’t remember anything I saw during that time. I chose screens over conversations, scenery, books, a good night’s sleep, and moments of quiet reflection.

I mean, I owned a smartphone.

In my early 20s, I worked as an online art influencer. That was my job. I documented every aspect of my life on Instagram for an audience of about 200,000 people. Nothing was off-limits: creative endeavors, mood swings, love affairs, hospitalization.

My life was a one-woman tabloid generating traffic for my art business. As much as I needed money, I also needed attention. I had very few friends. I had a lot of followers. That balance was not sustainable.

Newsletter registration

I became isolated and addicted to social media, two conditions that lasted forever. One day I broke down and deactivated my account. Everything changed when I ordered my old Nokia.

The impact of giving up my smartphone was immeasurable and truly life-changing. It takes sober judgment to know how distracted you are, how anxious you are, how easily you get bored, and how much you resist silence, presence, pain, and other natural human states did.

The benefits of the downgrade accumulated gradually over many months of withdrawals and adjustments. Years after my downgrade, I am still noticing new advantages in myself that have finally emerged from beneath the shadow of my technology addiction.

Now you will never be bored. All of them are interesting. I read long books. I go for long walks without headphones. When I have to wait, like when the bus is late or a friend goes to the bathroom, I just sit there. When I’m at my computer, I check my email etc. I’ve found that I don’t really care about the Internet when it’s out of reach.

Illustration: August Lamb

The most easily quantifiable benefit of downgrading is time. When you stop scrolling, your daily time returns. You can use that time to be healthy, social, or productive, or you can use it to do nothing. Laziness is a lost art, and in my opinion, laziness is essential to mental health and creativity. I spend a good portion of my day flipping through periodicals, drinking tea, and awkwardly pecking away at the piano. I believe that if you give your all, you won’t be able to waste your time.

If you’re interested in switching to a dumbphone, you may have questions about how practical or even possible it is. How do we live without Google Maps, calls over Wi-Fi, and two-factor authentication? These questions can make downgrading difficult to understand.

But remember that people have lived without smartphones for thousands of years. With time, patience, and smart workarounds, we can all find our way back to normal.

Here are my answers to some of the most common questions I receive.

How do I use two-factor authentication?

For security reasons, certain online platforms may require you to confirm your login through a smartphone app. There are several ways to deal with this depending on the platform you are using.

Purchase a physical security device Connect to your computer during authentication. One popular option is Ubikey.
Ask if you can receive SMS verification, If you work or study somewhere with an IT department. This means that you can get an authorization code sent to your dumb phone, and in some cases you can even enable this manually, but be aware that this is a less secure method.
some stupidMobile phones have a browser function One that supports two-factor authentication.
Use a spare phone (This may seem to defeat the purpose of downgrading at first; more on this later).

If you find yourself stuck on this particular problem, you are not alone. This is one of the most difficult and most important smartphone features to recreate. You can also check online forums such as: danphon subreddit) See more ideas.

How can I stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues?

After downgrading, you can still send text messages and make calls on your new phone. The only potential complication is that many of us use online messaging to keep in touch, especially internationally.

Luckily, you can access almost all of them from your desktop computer, including iMessage, Telegram, Facebook, and Instagram. And while laptops are internet-connected devices, they don’t prey on your attention like smaller handheld devices.

In my experience, the only people you really need to contact while you’re out are the people you’re coordinating with. What time are you there? or I’m going to be late – That’s emergency information.

Less urgent are group chats, messages to friends and family overseas, and DMs to social media acquaintances. These things may be feel But once you step away from them, you may realize that that sense of urgency was a product of software engineering, your own insecurities, or a combination of both.

How do you get around without a map app?

You may not realize it, but most Danphones come with a map app. In fact, unlike the bricks of the early 2000s, some modern Danphones come with Bluetooth, MP3 players, and even tiny, hard-to-use search engines.

If you feel you need these amenities, be sure to find a Danphone that offers them. (I used to have a flip phone with Google Maps, but I recently downgraded to an even less capable phone because I use the map feature obsessively and my estimated walking time is I was checking the arrival time every few blocks to see if it was going to happen.

But it’s also possible to live without digital navigation tools. I personally look up directions before leaving home, check posted traffic maps, ask for help from strangers, and get to know the area well enough to navigate intuitively. I like to move things in combination.

Interestingly, I found that I almost never needed to refer to the hand-drawn map. The process of writing down directions helps embed them in your brain. Over time, knowledge of local geography and transportation has accumulated, allowing you to travel without a map in most cases.

A hand-drawn map that August used on her trip to London and Berlin. She wrote them down before going out for the day.

What about listening to music or podcasts?

Even before the advent of smartphones, people were listening to audio on the go. Older MP3 players are available cheaply online, and certain dumbphones come equipped with audio players.

However, you’ll need to find a way to download what you want to listen to. The library is a great resource for CDs and audiobooks. Podcasts are free to download and listen to offline through Apple. If you’re looking for more recent releases, I highly recommend buying them on Bandcamp and using the money you save on your phone plan (not to mention the phone itself) to support musicians.

That being said, downgrading will certainly reduce your need for audio stimulation. You will soon find that you can happily move through the world with only recreational thoughts.

What about taking photos?

I carry a film camera with me wherever I go. Receiving film scans is the highlight of my month. The photos are of high quality and feel much more special than the 60,000 photos I took on my phone before I downgraded.

The film is not the only important difference. You may prefer a digital camera, and I know many dumbphone users who prefer digital cameras. Either way, using a real camera is a completely different experience for two reasons. One, the friction of ejecting another device makes taking a photo a more intentional act, and the single-purpose nature of the camera makes it distracting and intrusive while in use. That never happens. that.

Are there any things you can’t use without a smartphone?

Although I am a strong advocate of the feasibility of living without a smartphone, it is my opinion that there are some things that are simply not possible without a smartphone, namely when you are on the go, away from your computer and internet connection. I have to admit that. .

These include WhatsApp, Spotify, tickets to certain concerts and sports matches, electric car charging, location sharing, and more. It’s easy to obsess over these losses, but instead, I encourage you to think about all the things you gain in the process: time, presence, and peace of mind. Is there anything wrong with such things?

…Do you need a backup phone?

A spare phone is a smartphone that should ideally be turned off and put away except in special circumstances. Many dumbphone users keep their smartphones in a drawer or at a friend’s house in case they need them for authentication. There are certain services and applications that rely on everyone having access to a smartphone, and the complexity involved in getting around these obstacles may not be worth it.

So if you feel like you need a spare phone, there’s no shame in keeping it for the moment you need it (for example, if you own an electric car and need to charge it. ).

However, for other mundane tasks, the less accessible they are, the less urgent they will feel. Do you really need to check your email on the train? Do you really need to buy concert tickets at the hospital? Or can these things wait until you’re in front of your computer?

It’s easy to tally up the inconveniences associated with downgrading. Instead, I recommend thinking about what you can gain, although it is difficult to quantify. Isn’t your newfound presence, attention, and free time worth missing an email or being late to an event every once in a while?

There are certainly downsides, and you might be tempted to see that as a good reason to go back. In such a case, think back to your original motivation for downgrading. Who did you want to be? Isn’t it worth it?

It’s been years since I downgraded, but I was so completely adapted to Danphone that I forgot all about it until someone reminded me of it. “Do you miss your smartphone?” they ask, and I remember the height of my addiction. How could I miss that moment? I was hardly there.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Amazon purchases UK’s largest electric truck to decrease carbon footprint

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Amazon is set to deploy nearly 150 electric heavy goods vehicles in the UK to reduce carbon emissions from its delivery operations. The company has purchased over 140 electric Mercedes-Benz HGVs and eight Volvo trucks, marking the UK’s largest order for electric trucks. These vehicles will join Amazon’s fleet over the next 18 months, increasing its current electric HGV fleet from nine vehicles.

The switch to electric logistics is being supported by government funding under the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator Program (ZEHID). Amazon plans to set up fast-charging points across its UK network to keep its electric trucks operational.

Amazon’s investment in green transport is part of a £300m initiative announced in 2022 to increase its electric HGV fleet to 700 vehicles by 2025. However, challenges such as a lack of public infrastructure, high costs, and range concerns are hindering the industry-wide transition to electric HGVs.

Amazon Logistics European vice president Nicola Fyfe stated that the company’s commitment to electric vehicles aligns with its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040. The move includes large-scale deliveries by rail and foot in city centers, expanding Amazon’s green delivery options.

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Amazon’s shift towards electric vehicles represents a significant step in its sustainability efforts and commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Call center employees of a major Greek technology company go on strike: “Don’t let me use the toilet”

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

CCenter staff at some of the world's biggest tech companies, including Apple, Google, Microsoft and Netflix, have all accused the employer of retaliating against union organizers, constantly monitoring staff and denying them even bathroom breaks.

In the United States or Europe, if you're looking for technical or customer support from a major technology company, you might end up talking to an employee at Tele Performance's call center in Greece.

Teleperformance, the world's largest call center operator, Approximately 12,000 workers Based in Greece, we serve over 140 markets around the world in 43 different languages and dialects. The company is 7 multilingual hubs In Greece, it takes place in Athens, Chania and Thessaloniki.

Workers in Greece who have been seeking a collective agreement with Teleperformance say that the company has recently retaliated Targeted firings of union leaders, etc.

they say wages have increased unchanged Since 2010, Greece has been hit by creditor austerity measures despite high inflation and rising costs of living in recent years.

Mr. Nikos Spilleris, a call center worker at Teleperformance, Setep, The union representing teleperformance workers in Greece explained that its efforts began in early 2024 in response to years of no wage increases and increased production pressures placed on workers.

Setep Teleperformance call center employees go on strike in Greece. Photo: SETEP/Courtesy of SETEP

“They judge you on dozens of productivity metrics, and depending on the project, you have to be on the phone multiple times. Not being allowed to go to the bathroom even if you want to. is common,” Spilleris said. “If an employee is sick or absent for any reason, that is considered counterproductive and is grounds for renewing or not renewing the employee’s contract.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Reportedly, Chinese officials are discussing selling TikTok in the US to Elon Musk.

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Reports suggest that Chinese authorities have initiated discussions regarding the potential sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to billionaire Elon Musk if the app cannot avoid a ban. Authorities prefer TikTok to remain under the control of Chinese parent company ByteDance but are exploring other options, including a sale to Musk.

A TikTok spokesperson dismissed the report as “pure fiction” and reiterated the company’s stance of not selling its U.S. operations. TikTok has become one of the largest social networks globally, surpassing other popular platforms in app downloads and user numbers.

Concerns over potential Chinese influence led to U.S. lawmakers passing a bill requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s platform or face a ban. The Supreme Court has also mandated a decision on TikTok in the U.S. by January 19th.

The report suggests that TikTok’s U.S. operations could be sold through a competitive process or a government deal, indicating ByteDance may no longer have sole control over TikTok’s future. Chinese government involvement in ByteDance gives rise to regulatory concerns.

One scenario proposes Musk’s social media platform X taking control of TikTok US jointly, although no final agreement has been reached yet. Details regarding ByteDance’s awareness of discussions and Musk’s involvement remain unclear.

A sale to Musk would grant him greater influence over the U.S. information ecosystem, following his acquisition of Twitter and subsequent rebranding. Concerns over regulatory scrutiny and big tech censorship have also been raised.

If TikTok faces a ban, users may express concerns, as seen in jest from popular influencer Mr.Beast. TikTok has clarified government investment does not impact its global operations outside of China.

There has been no immediate response from Musk, Mr. X, Chinese authorities, or Commerce Ministry to requests for comments.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Experts warn of potential water contamination in Los Angeles County due to wildfires

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tap water in the Los Angeles area could be unavailable for some time due to concerns about damage to infrastructure and chemicals from wildfires, experts say. At least two water authorities have issued warnings about possible contamination from ongoing fires. Experts are worried about the risks to human health from chemicals and pathogens entering the water system, but accurate assessment may take time.

Residents in Pacific Palisades and neighboring communities have been advised to use bottled water for cooking, drinking, and other purposes due to potential contaminants like benzene entering the water system. The Pasadena Department of Water and Power has also instructed residents to switch to bottled water until further notice following concerns about debris impacting the water quality.

Drinking water systems can become contaminated after wildfires, as seen in past incidents in urban areas. Loss of water pressure in the system can be a sign of contamination, triggering careful analysis of the water quality. Environmental engineers are conducting tests in key areas to determine when the water will be safe to drink again.

While there is concern about potential contamination from flame retardants and ash from burnt materials, experts are mainly focused on monitoring benzene and other harmful chemicals due to their carcinogenic properties. Boiling water does not eliminate these chemicals, so the authorities have rescinded the “boil water” advisory. The testing process for dangerous chemicals can take weeks or even months to complete.

In cases of low contamination levels, flushing water pipes may eliminate the hazard, but in severe cases, pipe replacements might be necessary. Contamination around destroyed buildings poses the highest risk in the water distribution system. It is crucial for authorities to thoroughly assess and address the contamination to ensure public safety.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Tom Hanks Shows Off His Typewriter, Just Like a Box of Chocolates

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

SSome celebrities have unique collections, like art, rare film prints, or old-fashioned action figures. (Leonardo DiCaprio is included.) Tom Hanks, on the other hand, is known for collecting typewriters, which may seem practical yet cumbersome. A portion of Hanks’ typewriter collection is now on display in a church in Sag Harbor, Long Island.

Hanks has personally selected 35 typewriters from his collection of over 300, including the electric typewriter used on the set of Mad Men. The exhibit features a variety of typewriters, from the classic 1969 Olivetti to a modern translucent model designed for an imprisoned writer in the 1980s. The display also includes some simpler typewriters for a hands-on experience, highlighting the physical presence that is integral to the typewriter’s allure.

Hanks shares a fictionalized account of his typewriter’s origins in his short story “These Are the Meditations of My Heart,” included in his collection “Uncommon Type.” The physical act of typing on a typewriter holds a special significance for him, as he often carries one with him and uses it daily for various tasks, like note-taking or making lists.

Photo: Joseph Jagos / Church, Sag Harbor

The exhibition design for Hanks’ typewriter collection was entrusted to Simon Doonan, a renowned creative director known for his work on various projects. Doonan’s approach to the exhibit reflects the interactive nature of collecting typewriters and highlights the historical significance of these machines in the 20th century.

Tom Hanks surrounded by several typewriters at the California Typewriter. Photo: American Buffalo Photo

Doonan emphasizes the aesthetic appeal of typewriters, describing them as visually engaging and immersed in design language that reflects their respective eras. While acknowledging the historical significance and practical use of typewriters, he also recognizes their potential for conveying both love letters and sinister messages, much like their portrayal in various movies over the years.

The physical experience of using typewriters, especially older models, is highlighted by the manual adjustments, satisfying key presses, and carriage movements that define the process. For those who appreciate the tactile nature of typewriters, Tom Hanks’ collection offers a glimpse into a bygone era filled with unique stories waiting to be told.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Two protostars spotted by Hubble in the Orion Nebula

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A new image from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope shows two protostars in the Orion Nebula, a diffuse nebula located about 1,350 light-years away in the constellation Orion.

This Hubble image shows two protostars, HOPS 150 and HOPS 153, within the famous Orion Nebula. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble / T. Megeath.

The Orion Nebula is visible to the naked eye as a fuzzy speck surrounding the Hunter's Sword star Theta Orionis, below Orion's belt.

This nebula has been known as a star since the beginning of astronomical records, but it is so remarkable that it was first recognized as an expanded nebula in 1610, just one year after Galileo Galilei first used a telescope. It got attention.

Detailed descriptions of the Orion Nebula began to appear in the late 17th century, and it has been a popular target for anyone with a telescope ever since.

Also known as NGC 1976, Messier 42, M42, LBN 974, and Sharpless 281, this nebula is about 24 light-years long.

Only two million years old, this object is an ideal laboratory for studying young and nascent stars.

It offers a glimpse of what happened when the sun was born 4.6 billion years ago.

“The Orion Nebula is home to hundreds of newborn stars, including the protostars HOPS 150 and HOPS 153, the subject of this image,” Hubble astronomers said in a statement.

“The names of these protostars come from the Herschel Orion Protostar Survey, conducted in collaboration with ESA's Herschel Space Observatory.”

“The object visible in the upper right corner of this image is HOPS 150. It is a binary star system, with two young protostars orbiting each other.”

“Each animal has a small dusty disk around it from which it gets its nutrition.”

“A dark line across the bright glow of these protostars is a cloud of gas and dust more than 2,000 times wider than the distance between Earth and the Sun that dips into the pair of protostars.”

“Based on the amount of infrared light emitted by HOPS 150 and the light at other wavelengths, we can see that the protostar is on its way to becoming a mature star.”

“Extending to the left of the image is a narrow, colorful outflow called a jet. This jet comes out of frame from the nearby protostar HOPS 153,” they said.

“HOPS 153 is a much younger object than its neighbors, still deeply embedded in its birth nebula and shrouded in a cold, dense cloud of gas.”

“Hubble can't penetrate this gas to see protostars, but the jets released by HOPS 153 appear bright as they plow into the gas and dust surrounding the Orion nebula.”

“The transition from a tightly wrapped protostar to a full-fledged star will have a dramatic impact on the surroundings of HOPS 153.”

“When gas falls into a protostar, its jets spew matter and energy into interstellar space, creating bubbles and heating the gas.”

“By stirring up and warming nearby gas, HOPS 153 may control the formation of new stars in its vicinity and even slow its own growth.”

Source: www.sci.news

Research: Elderberry juice high in anthocyanins may be an effective weight management aid

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Consuming elderberry juice daily for one week (12 ounces of juice daily) significantly increases the gut microbial community associated with health benefits, according to a new randomized, placebo-controlled study. Compared to placebo, elderberry juice significantly increased Firmicutes and Actinobacteria and decreased Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, elderberry juice increased. FaecalibacteriumRuminococcaceae , and Bifidobacterium Bacteroidetes and lactic acid-producing bacteria decreased.

Elderberry is a small dark purple fruit that grows on the elderberry tree, which is native to Europe. Image credit: TheOtherKev.

More than 70% of adults in the United States are overweight or obese. The latest estimates indicate that 42% of adults suffer from obesity, and this is expected to increase to 48-55% by 2050.

Obesity has myriad and multifaceted causes. Proactive dietary management of obesity-related cardiometabolic complications includes dietary patterns that incorporate food sources rich in bioactive food components, such as the Mediterranean-style diet.

These dietary patterns include 5 to 10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables, which are rich sources of polyphenols that promote human health and longevity.

Anthocyanins are a diverse subclass of flavonoids that have been widely studied for health-promoting properties, including metabolic changes associated with obesity, such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease.

Furthermore, research results ranging from translational studies in rodents to large prospective cohort studies show that anthocyanin-rich berries have a protective effect against obesity-related morbidity and mortality. It's proven.

The mechanisms of action of anthocyanin benefits include preventing the intestinal absorption of monosaccharides, promoting cellular metabolism in adipose and muscle tissue, and modulating the gut microbiome.

“We have previously shown that consuming 600 g of blackberries per day for one week increases insulin sensitivity as evidenced by dietary challenge testing and decreases in respiratory quotient by 24-hour indirect calorimetry. “We demonstrated that fat oxidation also increases.” Dr. Patrick Solverson and colleagues at Washington State University.

“The aim of this human study was to determine whether the metabolic benefits observed with other anthocyanin-rich berries also apply to elderberry.”

Researchers tested elderberry's effects on metabolic health in a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 18 overweight adults.

While maintaining a standardized diet, participants consumed either elderberry juice or a placebo with a similar color and flavor specifically designed by North Carolina State University's Food Innovation Lab.

Post-intervention clinical trials showed that participants who consumed elderberry juice had significantly increased amounts of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, and decreased amounts of harmful bacteria, such as Bacteroidetes. It was shown that

In addition to positive changes in the microbiome, elderberry intervention improved metabolism.

The results showed that elderberry juice lowered participants' blood sugar levels by an average of 24%, significantly improving their ability to process sugar after ingesting carbohydrates. Results also showed that insulin levels were reduced by 9%.

Additionally, the results suggested that elderberry juice may increase the body's ability to burn fat.

Participants who consumed elderberry juice showed a significant increase in fat oxidation, or the breakdown of fatty acids, after a high-carbohydrate meal or during exercise.

“Food is medicine, and science is catching up to that conventional wisdom,” Dr. Solverson said.

“This study contributes to a growing body of evidence that elderberry, which has been used as a folk medicine for centuries, has many benefits for metabolic as well as prebiotic health. .”

“Other berries also contain anthocyanins, but usually in lower concentrations,” he added.

“To get the same amount of anthocyanins found in 6 ounces of elderberry juice, you would need to consume 4 cups of blackberries a day.”

of findings appear in the diary nutrients.

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Christy Teets others. 2024. A 1-week elderberry juice intervention enhances fecal microbiota and suggests improved glucose tolerance and fat oxidation in a randomized controlled trial. nutrients 16(20):3555;doi: 10.3390/nu16203555

Source: www.sci.news

LIGO hunts for gravitational waves produced by mountains on neutron stars

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While the solar system’s moons such as Europa and Enceladus have thin crusts over deep oceans, Mercury has a thin crust over a large metallic core. Thin sheets are generally likely to wrinkle. Europa has linear features, Enceladus has “tiger stripes” and Mercury has foliated cliffs. Neutron stars may have similar characteristics. These neutron star mountains can generate detectable oscillations in space and time known as gravitational waves, according to a new study.

Artist’s impression of a neutron star. Image credit: Sci.News.

Neutron stars are a trillion times denser than lead, and their surface features are largely unknown.

Nuclear theorists investigated the mountain-building mechanisms active on the moons and planets of the solar system.

Some of these mechanisms suggest that neutron stars likely have mountains.

A mountain in a neutron star would be much more massive than any mountain on Earth. They are so huge that the gravitational pull from these mountains alone can generate gravitational waves.

of Laser interferometer Gravitational wave observatory (LIGO) is currently looking for these signals.

“These waves are so weak that they require highly detailed and sensitive techniques carefully tuned to the expected frequencies and other signal characteristics,” said nuclear astrophysicist Jorge Morales and professor Charles Horowitz at Indiana University. It can only be discovered through search.”

“The first detection of continuous gravitational waves opens a new window on the universe and will provide unique information about neutron stars, the densest objects after black holes.”

“These signals may also provide sensitive tests of fundamental laws of nature.”

The authors investigated the similarities between neutron star mountains and surface features of solar system objects.

“While both neutron stars and certain moons, such as Jupiter’s moon Europa and Saturn’s moon Enceladus, have a thin crust over a deep ocean, Mercury has a thin crust over a large metallic core. The thin sheet Wrinkles are universally possible,” they said.

“Europa has linear features, Enceladus has tiger-like stripes, and Mercury has curved, step-like structures.”

“Mountained neutron stars may have similar types of surface features that can be discovered by observing continuous gravitational wave signals.”

“Earth’s innermost core is anisotropic, and its shear modulus is direction-dependent.”

“If the material in the neutron star’s crust is also anisotropic, a mountain-like deformation will occur, and its height will increase as the star rotates faster.”

“Such surface features could explain the maximum spin observed in neutron stars and the minimum possible deformation of radio-emitting neutron stars known as millisecond pulsars.”

team’s paper Published in a magazine Physical Review D.

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JA Morales and CJ Horowitz. 2024. The anisotropic neutron star crust, the mountains of the solar system, and gravitational waves. Physics. Rev.D 110, 044016; doi: 10.1103/PhysRevD.110.044016

Source: www.sci.news

Newly discovered species of ankylosaurus verified in China

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A new genus and species of an ankylosaurid dinosaur has been discovered in China’s Kangdaliang Mountain (1,262 meters above sea level).

There are two Ankylosaurs. Image credit: Stuart Pond.

Tianzenosaurus Chengi roamed the Earth during the Late Cretaceous Period, between 84 and 72 million years ago.

This ancient species belonged to the ankylosaurus group of armored dinosaurs that inhabited the planet from the mid-Jurassic period to the late Cretaceous period.

These intriguing creatures were recognized for their robust armor made of bony plates known as osteoderms.

These plates covered their backs and sides, providing defense against predators.

One distinctive feature of many ankylosaurid species, including Tianzenosaurus Chengi, was a large bony club at the end of its tail, which could be used as a potent weapon against predators.

The fossilized remains of this new species were unearthed in the second layer of the Late Cretaceous Huiquanpu Formation in Shanxi Province, China.

“The skull of the new species is flat and low, adorned with irregular bony plates on the roof, a rounded occipital bone slightly surpassing the skull’s roof, and a short, small, and flat bony projection at the back. These skull features differentiate it from Tianchisaurus from Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, during the Middle Jurassic period, Shamosaurus from Mongolia in the early Cretaceous period, Ankylosaurus from the Late Jurassic and Late Cretaceous, and Euoplocephalus not only from North America but also from Pinacosaurus from the Late Cretaceous of China and Mongolia,” as stated by Dr. Qiqing Pang and colleagues from Hebei Geographical University.

Tianzenosaurus Chengi shares its discovery location with another known species of this genus, Tianzenosaurus Yongi.

“The identification of this new species not only offers rare ankylosaurian fossil findings from China but also provides valuable insights for the study of ankylosaurian taxonomy, migration, evolution, and the paleobiogeography of Cretaceous dinosaur fauna. This discovery holds significance,” remarked the paleontologists.

Their published paper can be found in the Hebei Geography University Journal.

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Pan Chi Ching et al. 2024. New species of an ankylosaurid dinosaur — Tianzenosaurus Chengi sp. nov., Late Cretaceous, Tianzhen County, Shanxi Province, China. Hebei Geography University Journal 6; doi: 10.13937/j.cnki.hbdzdxxb.2024.06.006

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient tattoo designs on mummies revealed by shining laser

Posted on January 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The tattooed hand of a 1200 year old mummy from Peru

Michael Pittman and Thomas G. Kaye

Laser scanning of a South American mummy reveals the intricate details of a tattoo dating back more than 1,200 years.

The mummy, belonging to a pre-Hispanic tribe known as the Chancays, was discovered in 1981 at the Cerro Colorado cemetery in Peru’s Huaura Valley.

It was obvious to the naked eye that many of the 100 mummies were tattooed, but the ink smeared beyond the boundaries of the original design and faded, making it impossible to see what the original markings looked like. It was impossible.

In a new study, michael pitman Researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong shined a laser on the specimens in a dark room and took long-exposure photographs. The laser brightened the skin and created a sharp contrast with the non-fluorescent tattoo ink.

This technique, which does not damage mummies, has never been used for tattoos before. Importantly, Pittman says, it shows not only where the ink is on the surface, but also where it is in the deeper layers of the skin.

“This allowed us to see the bleeding that had accumulated over the lifetime of the tattoo owner and reveal the original, finer design of the tattoo,” he says.

Researchers say the tattoo is so minute that it must have been created using a needle-and-ink technique using cactus needles or sharp animal bones, rather than a “cut-and-fill” method. That’s what I think.

Tattoos appear to have been important to the Chancay people, Pittman said, as they appear on the majority of known mummified human remains.

Forearm with Chancay mummy tattoo

Michael Pittman and Thomas G. Kaye

“Many of the designs, which are geometric patterns featuring triangles and diamonds, are also shared in other art mediums such as pottery and textiles, and some ceramic figures show geometric tattoo designs. Some are,” he says.

Some tattoos have intricate designs that seem to require special effort, while others are small and simple. “Thus, ancient Chancay tattoos show some similarities with the variations in design and significance that can be observed in tattoos today,” Pittman says.

Pittman says many traditional tattoos made by other ancient peoples can also be viewed in detail using laser-stimulated fluorescence technology. “We therefore plan to apply this method to other ancient tattoos from cultures around the world and try to make other interesting discoveries,” he says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Meta permitted pornographic advertisements that breach content moderation standards

Posted on January 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Meta owns social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram

JRdes / Shutterstock

In 2024, Meta allowed more than 3,300 pornographic ads, many featuring AI-generated content, to run on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.

The survey results are available below. report by AI forensics a European non-profit organization focused on researching technology platform algorithms. Researchers also found inconsistencies in Meta’s content moderation policies by reuploading many of the same explicit images as standard Instagram and Facebook posts. Unlike ads, these posts violated Meta’s terms and were quickly removed. community standards.

“I am disappointed and not surprised by this report, as my research has already revealed double standards in content moderation, particularly in the area of sexual content,” he said. carolina are At the Center for Digital Citizenship at Northumbria University, UK.

The AI Forensics report focuses on a small sample of ads targeting the European Union. As a result, the explicit meta-authorized ads primarily target middle-aged and older men promoting “shady sexual enhancement products” and “dating sites,” with a total reach of 8.2 million impressions. It turned out that it was exceeded.

This permissiveness reflects a widespread double standard in content moderation, Allais said. She says tech platforms often block content by “women, femme presentations, and LGBTQIA+ users.” That double standard extends to the sexual health of men and women. “Examples include lingerie and period-related advertising. [removed] Ads from Meta are approved, but ads for Viagra are approved,” she says.

In addition to discovering AI-generated images within ads, the AI Forensics team also discovered audio deepfakes. For example, some ads for sex-enhancing drugs featured the digitally manipulated voice of actor Vincent Cassel superimposed over pornographic visuals.

“Meta prohibits the display of nudity or sexual activity in ads or organic posts on our platform, and we remove violating content shared with us,” a Meta spokesperson said. “Bad actors are constantly evolving their tactics to evade law enforcement, which is why we continue to invest in the best tools and technology to identify and remove violating content.”

The report comes at the same time that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced he would be eliminating the fact-checking team in favor of crowd-sourced community notes.

“If you really want to sound dystopian, which I think there’s reason to do so at this point given Zuckerberg’s latest decision to eliminate fact checkers, Meta You could even say that they’re quickly stripping agencies of their users by taking money from questionable ads,” Allais said.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New research indicates that Jupiter’s clouds are made up of ammonium bisulfide

Posted on January 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have long believed that Jupiter’s upper clouds, which form the planet’s iconic light brown bands, are made of frozen ammonia. But new research shows that these clouds are actually lower in the atmosphere than we thought, and are made of ammonium bisulfide mixed with smog.

Hubble’s photos of Jupiter show an ever-changing landscape due to its turbulent atmosphere. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Amy Simon, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center / Michael H. Wong, University of California, Berkeley / Joseph DePasquale, STScI.

Citizen scientist Steve Hill has previously shown that it is possible to map a planet’s atmosphere using just a special colored filter and a backyard telescope.

These results provided the first clue that the clouds are too deep in Jupiter’s warm atmosphere to match clouds made of ammonia ice.

To find out, Hill and a team of professional astronomers from the University of Oxford, the University of Leicester and the British Astronomical Society used the MUSE instrument on ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT) to study the atmospheres of gas giant planets. did.

“MUSE will be able to scan Jupiter’s atmosphere at different wavelengths and map the different molecules that make up Jupiter’s atmosphere,” they said.

Their study shows that a new approach using backyard telescopes or VLT/MUSE can map the abundance of ammonia in Jupiter’s atmosphere with remarkable precision.

In terms of clouds, they concluded that Jupiter’s atmosphere closely resembles a layered cake.

Ammonium hydrosulfide clouds cover the upper levels, and in some cases decorations of ammonia ice clouds carried to the top by strong vertical convection can be seen.

However, the overall structure of the cake is still not completely understood, and the work of citizen scientists may be the key to figuring it out.

So the next time you gaze at Jupiter or Saturn from your backyard, you just might be uncovering some hidden secrets in our solar system.

“We tested the reliability of the filter imaging technique by applying it to VLT/MUSE observations of Jupiter and found that the method closely matches more sophisticated analyzes of these observations and is also consistent with observations of Jupiter. “We have shown that the microwave wavelengths studied by NASA’s Juno spacecraft and the Super Large Array yield surprisingly reliable results,” the astronomers said.

“We show that the predominant reflection level at red wavelengths is at the 2-3 bar level, which is much lower than the expected ammonia ice cloud condensation level of 0.7 bar, and the ammonia We conclude that ice cannot be the main cloud component.”

“We also showed that the same technique can be applied to MUSE observations of Saturn, where extracted ammonia maps were measured by NASA’s Cassini spacecraft and the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope at pressures greater than 2 We found a very good agreement with the ammonia abundance.

of findings will appear in Geophysical Research Journal: Planets.

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Source: www.sci.news

Understanding the containment of the Los Angeles fires

Posted on January 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The raging wildfires in the Los Angeles area are still causing havoc, with firefighters facing strong winds in their efforts to control the blazes.

But what exactly does it mean to “contain” a wildfire?

Simply extinguishing the fire does not mean it is completely out. Containment refers to the establishment of a perimeter around an active fire to prevent it from spreading and consuming more land.

Firefighters work to suppress wildfires by creating natural barriers like roads, highways, rivers, and waterways to surround the flames and prevent them from spreading. They also construct containment lines by digging trenches and clearing vegetation around the fire.

The level of containment is expressed as a percentage, reflecting how well the fire has been contained, according to the Western Fire Chiefs Association.

Watch the live broadcast here

The largest fire in the Los Angeles area, the Palisades Fire, has burned over 23,000 acres and is 14% contained as of Monday. The Eaton Fire in Altadena and Pasadena is 33% contained, while the Hearst Fire in Sylmar is 95% contained, according to Cal Fire.

Containment is a crucial measure of progress in firefighting efforts, but it can change as the fire develops and environmental conditions fluctuate.

In Southern California, strong Santa Ana winds are expected to pose a significant fire risk in Los Angeles and Ventura counties over the next few days. Dry, windy conditions can fuel existing fires and accelerate new ones.

Even after a fire is extinguished, it may continue to burn for some time. The primary goal is to prevent the fire from crossing the containment line.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Is the EU Prepared to Take a Stand for Truth on Facebook and Instagram? |Meta

Posted on January 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fact-checkers were confident about the target audience for this week’s news, which was delivered through Mark Zuckerberg’s selected medium. The awkward video message announced Meta’s plan to transition from professional third-party fact-checking to a user-driven “community notes” model similar to X, starting in the US.

Upon hearing the news, one fact-checker expressed concerns about Meta’s intention to please President Trump. Their public response on the matter was more tactful but conveyed the same sentiment.

Across the Atlantic, questions arose about how the European Union would respond to Mr. Meta’s decision, especially if the next US president was watching. The implications could extend beyond Europe’s borders for fact-checkers globally.

Meta’s fact-checking program, which spans 130 countries and is a significant source of funding for fact-checking worldwide, was established shortly after the 2016 US election. Despite Meta’s investment of $100 million in fact-checking efforts since then, concerns remain among fact-checkers about potential changes in the future.

The EU’s new policies will have varying effects on fact-checkers globally depending on Meta’s rollout outside the US. The company’s plans for the EU remain unclear, but there are currently “no immediate plans” to suspend fact-checking within the EU.

The EU’s regulatory framework for digital platforms, including Meta, is being tested through initiatives like the Code of Practice on Disinformation. However, enforcement and interaction with fact-checkers remain unresolved issues.

The European Commission’s response to Meta’s decision will be crucial in testing DSA principles and influencing Meta’s policies worldwide.

Overall, fact-checkers anticipate Meta will phase out third-party fact-checking globally after implementing the new system in the US. The impact on the fact-checking movement, which relies heavily on Meta’s funding, could be significant.

The future of fact-checking remains uncertain, with potential consequences for fact-checkers worldwide. Many organizations may need to scale back or close operations if Meta discontinues its support, impacting efforts to combat misinformation.

Rappler, a Philippine news site, warned that the challenges faced in the US could signify a larger struggle to preserve truth and individual agency in the face of increasing dangers.

Source: www.theguardian.com

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