Yearly Archives: 2025

How Galactic Clusters Influence Star Formation – Sciworthy

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A multitude of objects inhabit space, from tiny dust grains to enormous black holes. However, the focus of astronomers is primarily on these objects’ formations, held together by gravity. At the smaller scale are planets and their moons; planetary system. Then there are stars and their respective planets, forming a planetary system. Beyond that, we encounter stars, black holes, along with gas and dust in between, referred to as a galaxy. On a grander scale, the assembly of very large objects that creates larger patterns throughout the universe is termed structure. An example of such a structure is a galaxy cluster, composed of hundreds to thousands of galaxies.

Astronomers are keen to understand the influence that being part of a larger structure, such as a galaxy cluster, has on its individual objects, especially as these structures evolve over time. One research team investigated what transpires when a galaxy encounters the Abel 496 cluster, which harbors a mass approximately 400 trillion times that of the Sun and is relatively nearby, at about 140 megaparsecs or approximately 455 million light-years away from Earth.

Their goal was to study how the galaxy evolved after joining the cluster. They observed 22 galaxies within Abel 496 to identify any differences in star formation rates post-infall. Specifically, they aimed to pinpoint the last billion years, focusing on when the cluster’s regular star-forming galaxies ceased creating new stars.

The research team merged two distinct types of data regarding light emissions from the observed galaxies. The first is the long-wavelength emissions from neutral hydrogen atoms present in the interstellar dust; H I, pronounced “H One”. Analyzing these emissions helps determine how much the galaxy is being influenced by its neighboring galaxies and how much gas remains for star formation. These H I emissions were observed using the National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Very Large Array.

The second dataset comprised short-wavelength emissions from recently formed stars, which have a mass between two to five times that of the Sun. These stars are short-lived, averaging a lifespan of less than 1 billion years. Researchers utilized luminosity patterns from these ultraviolet measurements to calculate the star formation frequency within the galaxies. These observations were conducted using the Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope aboard the AstroSat Satellite.

By combining this data, the team could delineate the history of each galaxy, assessing how long star-forming gas reserves persist and when star formation starts being influenced by the presence of other galaxies. The spatial positioning of each galaxy within the cluster was also examined to understand how the process of falling into the cluster altered their evolutionary trajectories.

The researchers found that galaxies located at the cluster’s edge experience star formation rates perceived as undisturbed, consistent with the Main Sequence. Additionally, it was noted that over half of the 22 galaxies under study reside at the center of the cluster, closely bound by gravitational forces and subject to secondary effects. Nevertheless, none of these central galaxies have fallen into the cluster for the past hundreds of millions of years, implying that they have not yet reached the region closest to the actual center of the cluster.

The team developed a five-stage evolutionary model for galaxies falling into clusters. Initially, galaxies begin their descent into clusters and continue their standard main sequence star formation, termed pre-trigger. In the second stage, other galaxies within the cluster disrupt the neutral hydrogen of the falling galaxies, triggering increased star formation.

The third stage sees a significant disturbance of the galaxy’s neutral hydrogen, escalating star formation to peak levels, designated as star formation peak. Next, during the fourth stage, the emissions of newly formed stars decline, though the galaxies are still quite disturbed, referred to as star-forming fading. The researchers estimate that these first four stages could span hundreds of millions of years. In the fifth stage, the depletion of neutral hydrogen leads star formation rates to fall below the pre-trigger main sequence, termed extinction.

In conclusion, the researchers asserted that their methodology successfully reconstructed the evolutionary history of galaxy clusters. However, they encouraged future teams to develop accurate measurement methods for both star formation and neutral gas within distant galaxies. They recommended utilizing larger samples of galaxies within clusters for more robust statistical analyses and investigating multiple clusters across various local environments to gain deeper insights into how galaxies evolve within vast structures.


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Source: sciworthy.com

Why Most Diets Fail According to Weight Loss Surgeons—and What to Eat for Success

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Many individuals have attempted to trim their waistlines through calorie counting and frequent gym visits, yet often with little success. So, what’s the underlying issue?

According to Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, a consultant in bariatric surgery at University College London Hospital and author of Why We Eat (Too Much) and How to Eat (and Still Lose Weight), losing weight is less about the quantity of food consumed or the amount of exercise than previously thought.

He suggests that rather than obsessing over calorie counts and relentless gym sessions, a more practical approach to weight loss could be achieved by consuming foods that effectively regulate levels of the hormone leptin.

How does leptin function? What foods should fill your plate? Is there a straightforward way to combat cravings? Dr. Jenkinson addressed these topics in detail during our recent discussion.

BBC Science Focus: What is the global obesity crisis?

AJ: The Western world faces significant issues that are straining healthcare systems. In the U.S., about one-third of the population is considered morbidly obese, impacting their health drastically.

In Europe, the rate is around one-quarter. Many of these individuals face heightened risks of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint problems, and certain cancers.

For the first time in history, life expectancy is declining due to obesity. New treatments, such as injections, are available, but they come at a hefty price.

Millions rely on them, and thus, obesity has become a major economic and health concern that requires urgent attention.

Obesity does not stem solely from the abundance of appealing, high-calorie food. These foods may act similarly to drugs, disrupting normal weight regulation mechanisms.

Wild animal populations face similar biological pathways, yet there’s no evidence that lions become inactive due to an oversupply of antelope.

Is the issue rooted in our hormones?

Yes. Leptin, often termed the ‘satiety hormone,’ is crucial in regulating the weight of wildlife and should ideally function in the same way for humans.

Leptin levels send signals to the brain’s weight control center, located in the hypothalamus. This hormone essentially dictates body weight: when leptin is detected, appetite diminishes and metabolism increases.

Leptin is produced by fat cells, meaning that higher leptin levels should correlate with reduced appetite and increased metabolism.

However, some food types can obstruct leptin signaling. While it’s well-known that sugar, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods contribute to obesity, the root cause isn’t merely their calorie content; it’s how they elevate insulin levels, which in turn inhibits leptin.

When leptin signaling fails, the brain loses track of whether we are overweight or underweight. You might look visibly overweight, but your brain might mistakenly signal that you need to eat more.

It’s akin to driving a vehicle and suddenly noticing the fuel gauge is empty. You panic and refuel, but the tank was never really empty to begin with—the gauge itself was faulty. Similarly, when leptin is blocked, your body undergoes a comparable malfunction.

What significance do calories hold for weight loss?

Calories are essential for survival, acting as energy units stored within plants. Plants predominantly store carbohydrates and energy within their cellular structures.

We utilize this energy for various bodily functions like heat generation, heartbeat, and movement. Interestingly, approximately 70% of the energy we consume is expended at rest, termed basal metabolism, which encompasses immune functions, maintaining body temperature, heart rate, and more.

There’s a common misconception among those who focus exclusively on calorie counts: the body can easily eliminate excess calories. For instance, you could adjust basal metabolism to burn an additional 600-700 calories daily through activity akin to enjoying a lavish three-course meal or engaging in a 10k run.

If you adopt a low-calorie diet, your body can also adapt to this lower intake, ultimately halting weight loss within weeks.

Moreover, while many individuals may overconsume, our bodies respond by increasing basal metabolism, leading to greater energy expenditure. This is a significant factor in the Western epidemic of hypertension, as our bodies heighten blood pressure to manage energy use.

Why do some people find it harder to lose weight than others?

This variation relates to the concept of a weight setpoint or weight anchor. Imagine it as an anchor that keeps a ship tethered to one location—similarly, your weight anchor dictates your body’s weight range.

Your weight anchor could be set within the “overweight” or “obese” zone. Even if you work hard at the gym or adhere to a low-calorie diet, your brain’s weight control center may pull you back to your setpoint.

This anchor is influenced by several factors, many of which you can change, but one is immutable: your genetics.

We all know individuals who remain naturally slim and can indulge in their favorite treats without gaining weight. However, about 25% to 33% of the population carries genes that predispose them to weight gain when exposed to Western dietary habits.

This genetic predisposition is heightened through easy access to sugar, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, fructose, vegetable oils, and more. Unfortunately, much of this unhealthy food is readily available in supermarkets, often overshadowing the fresh produce aisles.

This misunderstanding is prevalent among practitioners who advocate for calorie counting; it overlooks the fundamental principle that the type of food we consume acts on our bodies as a form of medicine.

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So, what should we be eating?

Remember, it’s about lifestyle changes rather than temporary dieting. Dieting implies short-term calorie restriction. However, if you comprehend how different foods impact your body like medications, you will naturally shed pounds. Avoid sugar, refined carbohydrates, and toxic vegetable oils that adversely affect insulin levels.

Opt for homemade meals, and without much struggle, your weight setpoints will begin to decrease. You may find you lose considerably more weight than through conventional exercise efforts. This doesn’t have to be a struggle or cause frustration.

For instance, you could effortlessly replace unhealthy snacks eaten while watching television with a plate of veggies sprinkled with a bit of salt. It is all about recognizing and transforming unhealthy habits into healthier alternatives.

Initially, giving up sugar or chocolate may trigger cravings. However, these can be managed through a technique called “Crave Surfing,” which involves acknowledging the craving without disregarding it. Focus on it, and you will find that these cravings will ebb and flow, becoming less intense over time.

What role should exercise play in weight loss?

If you can dedicate time to the gym for about an hour and a half, engaging in vigorous activities, you could potentially burn 1000 calories daily. Over six days a week, this can significantly impact your weight.

However, for most, this level of control is unattainable unless you are an athlete. Recommendations for 30 minutes of exercise, 3-4 times a week, have minimal effect on weight loss—you may only shed around 2 kilograms annually.

Just like limiting calories, exercise can enhance metabolism efficiency, causing the body to become more adept at conserving energy.

For example, if you engage in a 30-minute workout and burn about 400 calories, it may leave you feeling hungrier. Unless you maintain exceptional willpower, you are likely to consume those 400 calories back. Instead of burning these calories, your metabolism functions to regulate them.

The way to counter this effect involves a combination of calorie restriction and physical activity for optimal results. Our metabolism cannot typically adjust by more than 600 or 700 kilocalories a day. Hence, if you successfully reduce your intake beyond 1000 calories, weight loss is likely to follow—but it is a challenging task that can lead to fatigue and hunger.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

About our expert, Dr. Andrew Jenkinson

Andrew is a consultant specializing in obesity (weight loss) and general surgical procedures at University College London Hospital.

He is also the author of Why We Eat (Too Much) and How to Eat (and Still Lose Weight).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Archaeologists Reveal the Hidden Secrets of Pompeii’s Vibrant Legacy

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When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, it buried Pompeii under a meter of ash and pumice, effectively freezing the Roman city in time. However, a new study reveals that the story didn’t end there. Life persisted for centuries, emerging among the abandoned structures in significantly altered forms.

Recent findings from restoration efforts in the city’s southern quarter indicate that Pompeii was reoccupied shortly after the eruption and remained inhabited until at least the fifth century.

“Researchers and archaeologists have always been intrigued by the idea of people returning to Pompeii, but this was often overshadowed by a focus on the remarkably preserved artwork from before 79 AD,” said Gabriel Zuchtliegel, director of Pompeii Archaeological Park and lead author of the new study, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

However, the resettlement was a shadow of Pompeii’s former self. “The reoccupation of Pompeii was not comparable to the city as it existed before AD 79,” Zuchtliegel stated.

“It resembled more of a slum—a highly unstable and unstructured settlement. As far as we know, there were no temples or public buildings.”

A collection of ceramic containers (amphorae), fragments, tiles, and marble repurposed by the inhabitants of this space after 79 AD – Credit: Archaeological Park in Pompeii

Families fashioned makeshift homes on the remaining upper floors of the buried buildings, while the lower levels (previously above ground) were transformed into hearths and caves, complete with ovens and small workshops.

But who chose to return to the devastated city? According to Zuchtliegel, these residents were likely those with limited options. “Certainly, they would have preferred to live elsewhere if possible, but some may not have had other resources.”

There was also an additional motivation: the opportunity to reclaim treasures buried beneath the ash. “A vast amount of wealth lay hidden underground, including metals, statues, coins, and marble,” Zuchtliegel noted.

“People may have initially returned to unearth the ruins of Pompeii… over time, vegetation would have reclaimed the land, creating a green and thriving landscape.”

This fragile community endured for centuries. Alongside the broader decline of the Western Roman Empire, it likely ceased to exist after another eruption in 472 AD. “There may have been general demographic declines, migration, and hardships related to the collapse of centralized governance,” Zuchtliegel explained.

“It’s astonishing to see how people endure and cope in such extreme circumstances.”

About our experts

Gabriel Zuchtliegel is the director of the Archaeological Parks in Pompeii. He studied Classical Archaeology at Humboldt University in Berlin and obtained his PhD from the University of Bonn.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

OpenAI Leaders and Ministers Discuss UK-Wide ChatGPT Plus Initiatives | Peter Kyle

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The leader of the organization behind ChatGpt and the UK’s tech secretary recently engaged in discussions about a multi-billion-pound initiative to offer premium AI tool access across the nation, as reported by The Guardian.

Sam Altman, OpenAI’s co-founder, had conversations with Peter Kyle regarding a potential arrangement that would enable UK residents to utilize its sophisticated products.

Informed sources indicate that this concept emerged during a broader dialogue about the collaborative opportunities between OpenAI and the UK while in San Francisco.

Individuals familiar with the talks noted that Kyle was somewhat skeptical about the proposal, largely due to the estimated £2 billion cost. Nonetheless, the exchange reflects the Technology Secretary’s willingness to engage with the AI sector, despite prevailing concerns regarding the accuracy of various chatbots and issues surrounding privacy and copyright.

OpenAI provides both free and subscription versions of ChatGPT, with the paid ChatGPT Plus version costing $20 per month. This subscription offers quicker response times and priority access to new features for its users.

According to transparency data from the UK government, Kyle dined with Altman in March and April. In July, he formalized an agreement with OpenAI to incorporate AI into public services throughout the UK. These non-binding agreements could grant OpenAI access to government data and potential applications in education, defense, security, and justice sectors.

Secretary of State Peter Kyle for Science, Innovation and Technology. Photo: Thomas Krych/Zuma Press Wire/Shutterstock

Kyle is a prominent advocate for AI within the government and incorporates its use into his role. In March, it was revealed he consulted ChatGPT for insights on job-related inquiries, including barriers to AI adoption among British companies and his podcast appearances.

The minister expressed in January to Politicshome:

The UK stands among OpenAI’s top five markets for paid ChatGPT subscriptions. An OpenAI spokesperson mentioned: [a memorandum of understanding] aims to assess how the government can facilitate AI growth in the UK.

“In line with the government’s vision of leveraging this technology to create economic opportunities for everyday individuals, our shared objective is to democratize AI access. The wider the reach, the greater the benefits for everyone.”

Recently, the company has been in talks with several governments, securing a contract with the UAE for using technology in public sectors like transportation, healthcare, and education to enable nationwide ChatGPT adoption.

The UK government is eager to draw AI investment from the USA, having established a deal with OpenAI’s competitor Google earlier this year.

Kyle stated that in the next ten years, the establishment of a new UN Security Council will be significantly influenced by technology, especially AI, which he believes will play a fundamental role in determining global power dynamics.

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Similar to other generative AI tools, ChatGPT is capable of generating text, images, videos, and music upon receiving user prompts. This functionality raises concerns about potential copyright violations, and the technology has faced criticism for disseminating false information and offering poor advice.

The minister has expressed support for planned amendments to copyright law that would permit AI companies to utilize copyrighted materials for model training, unless the copyright holder explicitly opts out.

The consultations and reviews by the government have sparked claims from creative sectors that the current administration is too aligned with major tech companies.

Ukai, the UK’s foremost trade organization for the AI industry, has repeatedly contended that the government’s strategy is overly concentrated on large tech players, neglecting smaller entities.

A government representative stated, “We are not aware of these allegations. We are collaborating with OpenAI and other leading AI firms to explore investment in UK infrastructure, enhancing public services, and rigorously testing the security of emerging technologies before their introduction.”

The Science and Technology Division clarified that discussions regarding the accessibility of ChatGPT Plus to UK residents have not advanced, nor have they conferred with other departments on the matter.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is the AI Bubble on the Verge of Bursting, Potentially Triggering a Stock Market Crash? | Philip Inman

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An increasing anxiety surrounds the possibility of a stock market collapse. The rise from minor dips to significant drops casts shadows as the initial excitement surrounding artificial intelligence begins to wane.

In recent weeks, U.S. tech stocks have faced a downward trend, suggesting that a stream of disappointing figures could become commonplace before the end of the month.

We may be looking at a scenario reminiscent of 2000, where the burst of the dot-com bubble could lead to a grim situation.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is among those policymakers responsible for guarding against impending crises. At the annual Jackson Hole meeting with central bank governors in Wyoming, he sought to reassure worried minds.

He expressed that the Fed is concerned about increasing inflation and is prepared to assist the economy in overcoming the uncertainties brought on by Donald Trump’s actions and the global economic slowdown.

With STAGFLATION looming, there’s a genuine threat as the U.S. economy decelerates and inflation rises. Powell has indicated to stock markets that interest rates may decrease, relieving pressure on companies dependent on debt.

The stock market draws Powell’s attention even more than usual, given the extent of U.S. personal pensions invested in publicly traded companies. Specifically, tech stocks are heavily investing in AI, despite not yet achieving a single dollar in profit.

A recent study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology uncovered that 95% of companies investing in generative AI have not yet realized financial returns.

This news follows remarks from Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who cautioned that some company valuations appeared “unusual.”

“We are happy to announce Ipek Ozkardeskaya, a senior analyst at the currency trading firm Swissquote,” remarked Ipek Ozkardeskaya. Altman’s comments served as a wake-up call for investors, likely triggering a sharp decline in various high-flying stocks.

Earlier this week, stock values for data mining and surveillance companies with substantial government contracts dropped almost 10%. AI chip manufacturer Nvidia declined by more than 3%, while other AI-related stocks such as ARM, Oracle, and AMD also suffered losses.

Most pension funds are heavily invested in these tech firms, along with established names like Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), and Meta (Facebook).

Should fund managers consider withdrawing? That’s likely not a prudent choice.

The magnitude of investments in AI by companies like Google and Meta is vast, and while the technology’s potential is subject to much speculation, white-collar workers are already seeing expected benefits in their daily tasks.

Daily reports and suggestions for utilizing AI in presentation preparation are commonplace (though they come with the unspoken caveat that job openings remain unaddressed).

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Microsoft Co-Pilot and numerous other “assistance” AI tools are available.

If this trend has already gained momentum across various economic sectors, a soft landing may await the tech industry, despite the elimination of some unstable, speculative enterprises.

In fact, a recession could facilitate large corporations in seizing opportunities from struggling competitors and leveraging new, affordable technological innovations.

The ratio of Palantir’s price to acquisition is over 500. Many investors are anxious even at a 50 ratio. Nvidia’s price to return ratio stands at 56.

As stock prices align with realistic revenue prospects, the Palantir/Nvidia ratio might decline; however, even in the harshest stock market turbulence, companies are unlikely to go bankrupt.

Trump remains a significant proponent, paving the way for AI to delve deeper into corporate operations. His advocacy for cryptocurrencies, along with his support for deregulated social media platforms, reflects his ideological leanings.

AI may pose potential dangers to humanity, given that politicians and regulators lag behind the notable figures and tech giants championing AI.

However, for investors, AI is not an entity that will simply vanish, crash, or evade downfall.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Unpredictability of Mega Tsunamis: Understanding the Reasons Behind Their Threat

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On July 30th, at 12:25am BST (11:25am local time), a significant earthquake occurred off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. With a magnitude of 8.8, it marked the sixth largest earthquake in recorded history, raising fears of a tsunami reminiscent of the 2004 Indian Ocean disaster.

Within hours, over 2 million individuals across the Pacific were ordered to evacuate as alerts reached coastlines from China and New Zealand to Peru and Mexico.

Fortunately, apart from some damage near the epicenter in Russia, the globe largely avoided catastrophe. As people heeded the warnings and moved to higher ground, many tsunami alerts were gradually downgraded and retracted.

The waves never materialized. But why?

How Tsunami Warning Systems Operate

The tsunami warning framework has significantly advanced since the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 200,000 lives.

“Multiple tsunami warning centers exist globally,” said Professor Alison Raby, an environmental fluid mechanics expert at Plymouth University.

“These centers are alerted to earthquake incidents, determining their location, size, and depth—critical factors for predicting tsunamis. Consequently, they issue a broad alert based on this information.”

Given that seismic waves travel around 100 times faster than tsunamis, earthquake information reaches us well before the first wave. However, waiting to witness the tsunami is rarely feasible. By the time underwater pressure gauges or satellites detect unusual sea level changes, it may already be too late.

The detection speed varies based on the proximity of the source to the nearest detection system or coastal depth gauge, ranging from five minutes to two hours.

Utilizing data from past earthquakes and intricate computer models, scientists at warning centers often have limited time to decide whether to issue an alert, with the first warning typically released just five minutes after the ground stops shaking.

The final phase—communicating alerts effectively—has also improved since 2004. At that time, many coastal communities received little to no warnings. Now, emergency alerts can be sent directly to mobile phones, affording people crucial time to reach higher ground before the waves strike.

Data from surface water and oceanic topography (SWOT) satellites depict waves generated by the Kamchatka earthquake.

The Complexity of Tsunami Warnings

This year’s earthquake in Russia was categorized as a giant earthquake. Such occurrences transpire in subduction zones where one tectonic plate is thrust beneath another, leading to the most powerful earthquakes known.

As one plate descends, the other is elevated, causing the seabed to suddenly rise and displacing a substantial volume of water. This abrupt uplift triggers waves capable of traveling across the ocean basin, which grow larger as they approach the shallow coastline.

The Megathrust earthquake also caused the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and the 2011 Japanese earthquake, both of which generated towering tsunamis with waves exceeding 30m (100 feet). Therefore, it was no surprise that warnings were propagated throughout the Pacific.

The challenge lies in the fact that despite similarities in earthquakes, multiple factors influence tsunami generation.

“It’s not simply about detecting an earthquake and simulating potential tsunami sizes,” explained Liby. “Underwater landslides or other mechanisms may also play a role.”

The availability of data from specific locations is crucial. The same region in Russia experienced a magnitude 9 earthquake in 1952, yet remains underpopulated, leading to less comprehensive modeling efforts compared to other seismic hotspots.

Globally, records are limited. Reliable earthquake measurements only date back about a century, with only a few incidents generating tsunamis, resulting in an insufficient sample size for accurate predictions.

“We are fairly confident in understanding these events, but they always prompt new insights and questions,” affirmed Raby. “I am certain seismologists and seismic engineers will glean further knowledge from this recent incident that wasn’t previously recognized.”

The tsunami warning system has made significant strides. It’s now prioritized to er on the side of caution during tsunami evacuations rather than risk overlooking a potential disaster. Still, the balance is precarious.

“The issue is that people may become complacent,” noted Raby. “During evacuations, they may face income loss, or even car accidents, leading them to become skeptical of future warnings. Hence, the threat of excessive false alerts is real.”

Nonetheless, she remains hopeful. “I’m cautiously optimistic that improvements are being made, though we’re far from perfect forecasting capabilities.”

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Meet Our Experts

Allison Raby is a professor of environmental fluid mechanics at the University of Plymouth, UK. Her tsunami research has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction and Marine Geology.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Trump Claims Intel Will Provide US Government with a 10% Stake

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Donald Trump and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick have announced that the US government has secured a groundbreaking 10% stake in Intel through a partnership with struggling chip manufacturers. This marks another significant intervention by Corporate America’s White House.

Lutnick stated on X: “Big News: The United States now owns 10% of Intel, one of our nation’s leading technology firms. We extend our gratitude to Intel CEO @Lipbutan1 for negotiating fair agreements benefit Americans.”

Trump met with Lipbu Tang on Friday and posed for a photo with Lutnick. This move was prompted by the US president’s demand for Intel’s resignation regarding its ties with Chinese companies after a previous meeting between Tang and Trump earlier this month.

“He approached us to continue his efforts and ultimately committed $1 billion to the US, so we secured a billion,” Trump shared on Friday.

Although Trump did not detail the $10 billion sum, it approximately corresponds to the financial assistance Intel receives from the government under the Chips and Science Act to build a US chip manufacturing facility.

Intel’s investment is the latest in a series of extraordinary deals brokered by the US administration under Trump, including allowing AI chip giant Nvidia to sell H20 chips to China. Amd has similarly pursued a comparable transaction.

Additionally, the Department of Defense is poised to become the principal stakeholder in small mining companies, enhancing the production of rare earth magnets, with the US government negotiating specific veto rights and “golden shares” as part of a deal enabling Nippon Steel to acquire US steel.

The extensive range of US government interventions in corporate affairs is raising concerns among critics who argue that Trump’s measures will establish a new category of corporate risk.

This development follows a $2 billion capital infusion from SoftBank Group, a significant endorsement for a troubled US chipmaker now navigating a turnaround. Daniel Morgan, senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust, mentioned that Intel’s challenges extend beyond the financial boosts from SoftBank or government profits.

“Without government backing and strong financial allies, it’s tough for Intel’s Foundry units to generate enough capital to keep expanding fabs at a reasonable pace,” he stated. “We need to catch up with TSMC [Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company] to be competitive technically.”

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The 10% stake is valued at approximately $10 billion at the current stock price. Lutnick noted this week that these shares do not confer voting rights, meaning the US government cannot dictate the company’s operational decisions.

Federal backing could provide Intel with more leeway to revitalize its struggling casting business, analysts observe, though it still faces weaknesses in its product roadmap and challenges in attracting customers to its new factories.

Tang, who took on a leading role at Intel in March, has the responsibility of reviving the iconic American chipmaker, which reported a loss of $18.8 billion in 2024—the first loss since 1986.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Cats Can Experience Dementia: A Potential Key to New Treatments for Humans

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Cats that exhibit dementia-like symptoms in their senior years undergo changes analogous to those seen in humans with Alzheimer’s disease, as highlighted in a study I found. This finding may open pathways for new research and help in discovering treatments for these challenging and notorious diseases.

“Our advancements in treating Alzheimer’s disease have been relatively limited compared to other illnesses,” stated Dr. Robert McGeechan, the study’s lead author, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

“Cats are experiencing similar neurological changes, making them potentially more relevant models for understanding the disease. By investigating Alzheimer’s in cats, we can develop treatments that might be more effective for humans.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, encompassing a range of neurodegenerative conditions that impair memory, problem-solving, language, and behavior. Approximately one in nine individuals over 65 are affected by Alzheimer’s, and with an aging global population, over 150 million people could be diagnosed by 2050.

Yet, despite decades of investigation and billions spent, only a handful of effective treatments exist today.

How Cats Develop Dementia

The understanding that cats can show dementia-like symptoms with age is not new. According to some research, nearly one-third of cats aged 11 to 14 exhibit at least one sign of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), the veterinary term for dementia in felines. For cats older than 15, this figure increases to over half.

CD symptoms in cats, which resemble those in humans with Alzheimer’s, include changes in sleep patterns and disorientation. Many cats also become more vocal and often seek additional comfort and attention from their owners.

It is also known that, similar to humans, older cats typically develop an accumulation of amyloid beta plaques in their brains, which are suspected to play a role in the onset of Alzheimer’s.

“As we age, humans develop these protein plaques in our brains. However, not everyone with these plaques develops Alzheimer’s, and the reasons for this remain unclear,” McGeechan explained.

“We were similarly situated with cats, knowing they could develop dementia and that some produce these proteins as they grow older, but we lacked clarity on whether this was solely age-related or if it contributed to dementia.”

To delve deeper, McGeechan’s team examined the brains of 25 cats of varying ages post-mortem, including those with CDS symptoms.

They discovered that amyloid beta plaques were not just passively situated in the brain but were also linked to detrimental changes. Notably, they observed increased inflammation and signs of glial cells, the immune cells of the brain, “enveloping” the synapses surrounding these protein plaques.

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Synapses are tiny junctions enabling brain cells to communicate, and their progressive loss is believed to underlie many memory and behavioral symptoms associated with dementia.

The findings imply that a similar toxic chain reaction may also occur in feline brains. As amyloid beta accumulates, it activates glial cells, leading to the degradation of healthy synapses. While this broader pattern was evident, the finer details proved to be more intricate.

Upon comparing the brains across different age groups, subtle differences emerged. Cats with dementia appeared significantly different from younger cats, exhibiting greater amyloid plaque accumulation, inflammation, and synaptic loss. However, they did not starkly differ from older, yet otherwise healthy cats.

This observation indicates that researchers might struggle to draw a clear line between aging and dementia.

Yet, the team noted an important distinction concerning the relationship between amyloid plaques and synaptic damage. In older, healthy cats, increased amyloid did not equate to more harm. However, in cats with dementia, higher plaque levels correlated with increased inflammation and greater brain cell loss.

McGeechan posits that this mirrors human scenarios. Numerous older adults accumulate amyloid plaques in their brains without developing Alzheimer’s, while others experience significant cognitive decline.

“Amyloid may have a more toxic impact on cats experiencing CDS,” he noted. “This correlation suggests amyloid plays a role in inflammation and synaptic loss in the dementia group, unlike in the aging group.”

Thus, while amyloid accumulation may contribute to feline dementia, it likely does not tell the full story. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, a complex interplay of various factors may also be at play.

MRI image of a cat’s brain exhibiting signs of cognitive dysfunction. The lighter areas on the edges illustrate regions of tissue loss.

The Significance of Cats in Research

Alzheimer’s disease research has historically depended on rodents, where diseases are artificially induced by genetic manipulation.

While these models aid in exploring molecular mechanisms, they often fall short of encapsulating the intricacies of naturally occurring diseases that unfold over time. Consequently, numerous promising drugs that succeed in mice fail when tested on humans.

In contrast, cats naturally develop dementia as they age, mirroring the human experience. They also share the same living environments and risk factors, including diet and air quality.

This similarity renders them a more realistic model for understanding disease biology and identifying environmental triggers that might push certain individuals towards dementia.

“Cats could serve as a bridge in our pursuit of effective treatments,” McGeechan expressed.

Future Directions

At this point, the findings raise just as many inquiries as they resolve. Given that the study involved only 25 cats, a larger sample size may be necessary to clarify the precise mechanisms underlying the observed clinical outcomes, according to McGeechan.

Another area of focus is tau. Besides amyloid beta, tau is another key protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike amyloid plaques, tau forms tangles within brain cells. Many researchers believe tau drives the most severe stages of the disease in humans, but this investigation did not address tau in cats.

Dogs may also present a valuable avenue for exploration. Like cats, they can age into a dementia-like syndrome, displaying symptoms recognizable to many owners, such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and forgetfulness. Comparing the brains of dogs and cats might reveal shared biological processes across species.

Ultimately, this body of research holds promise not just for human health.

“Dementia in cats is a distressing condition for both the animals and their owners,” remarked Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, a co-author of the study and a chair in feline medicine at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Medicine.

“Conducting such research aims to enhance our understanding of how best to treat these conditions. This work benefits not just cats and their owners but also individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones. Dementia in cats serves as an ideal natural model to study Alzheimer’s disease.”

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About Our Experts

Robert McGeechan is a resident in Veterinary Neurology and Neurosurgery and serves as an ECAT Veterinary Clinical Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, UK. His research has been published in European Journal of Neuroscience, Scientific Reports, and Nature Neuroscience.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Expert Rejection: Police Assert Research Backing Unbiased Live Facial Recognition Usage

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The Metropolitan Police assert that their application of live facial recognition is devoid of bias, as echoed by a prominent technology specialist, but this claim has not been substantiated by the reports they reference in support of their litigation.

The MET plans to deploy the LFR in its most notable event this bank holiday weekend at the Notting Hill Carnival in West London.

According to The Guardian, the technology will be utilized at two locations leading up to the carnival, and the military has insisted on its implementation, despite the fact that LFR use is considered illegal, as declared by the Equality and Human Rights Commission.


This new assertion comes from Professor Pete Hussy, who led the only independent academic review of the police’s use of facial recognition; he is a former reviewer of Met’s LFR since 2018-19 and currently advises various law enforcement agencies in the UK and internationally on its application.

The Met contends that it has reformed the usage of LFR, as indicated in the 2023 research commissioned by the National Institute of Physics (NPL), claiming that it is now virtually free from bias. Nevertheless, Fussey responded:

“The sensitivity of the system can be adjusted for LFR’s operation. Higher sensitivity results in detecting more individuals, but such potential bias is influenced by race, gender, and age. Setting zero is the most sensitive while one is the least.”

The NPL report identified bias at a sensitivity level of 0.56, noting seven instances where individuals tested were mistakenly flagged as suspects, all of whom were from ethnic minority backgrounds.

These findings stemmed from a collection of 178,000 images entered into the system, with 400 volunteers passing by the cameras roughly 10 times, providing 4,000 opportunities for accurate recognition. They were included in an estimated crowd of over 130,000 at four locations in London and one in Cardiff. The tests were carried out in clear weather over 34.5 hours, though Fussey remarked this was shorter than tests conducted in some other countries where LFR is valued.

From this dataset, the report concluded that no statistically significant bias existed in settings above 0.6. This assertion has been reiterated by the MET to justify their ongoing use and expansion of LFR.

Hussey criticized this as insufficient to substantiate the MET’s claims, stating: “Councillors at the Metropolitan Police Service consistently argue their systems undergo independent testing for bias. An examination of this study revealed that the data was inadequate to support the claims made.”

“The definitive conclusions publicly proclaimed by MET rely on an analysis of merely seven false matches from a system scrutinizing the faces of millions of Londoners. Drawing broad conclusions from such a limited sample is statistically weak.”

Currently, the MET operates LFR at a sensitivity setting of 0.64, though they assert that the NPL studies did not yield erroneous matches.

Fussey stated: “Their own research indicates that false matches are not evaluated in settings claiming no bias that exceed 0.64.”

“Few in the scientific community suggest sufficient evidence exists to support these claims drawn from such a limited sample.”

Fussey added: “We clearly indicate that bias exists within the algorithm, but we assert that this can be mitigated through appropriate adjustments to the system settings. The challenge arises from the fact that the system has not been thoroughly tested under these varied settings.”

Lindsay Chiswick, the MET’s intelligence director, dismissed Hussy’s allegations, stating: “This is a factual report from a globally renowned institution. The Met Police’s commentary is grounded in the findings of an independent study,” she explained.

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“If you utilize LFR with a setting of 0.64, as I currently am, there is no statistically significant bias.”

“We sought research to pinpoint where potential bias lies within the algorithm and employed the results to mitigate that risk.”

“The findings exemplify the degree to which algorithms can be used to minimize bias, and we consistently operate well above that threshold.”

During the Notting Hill carnival this weekend, warning signs will notify attendees about the use of LFR. The LFR system will be stationed next to the van containing the cameras linked to the suspect database.

Authorities believe utilizing the technology at two sites leading to the carnival will act as a deterrent. At the carnival itself, law enforcement is prepared to employ retrospective facial recognition to identify perpetrators of violence and assaults.

Fussey remarked: “Few question the police’s right to deploy technology for public safety, but oversight is crucial, and it must align with human rights standards.”

The MET claims that since 2024, the LFR has recorded a false-positive rate of one in every 33,000 cases. Although the exact number of scanned faces remains undisclosed, it is believed to be in the hundreds of thousands.

There have been 26 incorrect matches in 2024, with eight reported so far in 2025. The Met stated that these individuals were not apprehended as decisions on arrests rested with police officers, following matches produced by their computer systems.

Prior to the carnival, the MET arrested 100 individuals, recalled 21 to prison, and banned 266 from attendance. Additionally, they reported seizing 11 firearms and over 40 knives.

Source: www.theguardian.com

What’s the Reward? How Instagram and TikTok Influencers Made Taboo Questions Go Viral | Pay

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Are you prepared to share your earnings with strangers and see it plastered all over the web?

For better or worse, it was just you, your employer, and possibly HM Revenue & Customs who knew your salary.

Now, the question looms: “What do you earn?” Influencers armed with cameras and ring lights often stop you in the street to ask. This seemingly mundane question might lead to a series of lighter inquiries later.

They might also delve into other personal financial matters, such as your rent, savings, or biggest financial blunders.

Surprisingly, many people are willing to engage. In just 40 seconds, one interview revealed that an architectural designer earns £38,000 annually. Respondents are often eager to share their future salary expectations and savings, too.

In another clip, a 60-year-old man discusses his biggest financial regret—passing up on an expensive apartment when he was younger.

These clips, viewed 1.3 million times on Instagram, are part of a fast-growing genre that includes street-style interviews delving into personal finance topics like income, job satisfaction, and more.

Inspired by the US Salary Transparent Street, which aims to de-stigmatize salary discussions, this channel has gained over a million followers in four years.

Microphone-wielding creators argue that interviewing British citizens has enhanced financial literacy and wage transparency. Critics suggest it caters to voyeurism, creating content that could easily go viral.

For content creators, the formula is straightforward: pose personal questions, film responses, and share them with audiences eager to learn about others’ earnings, expenditures, and regrets. After all, financial concerns often weigh more heavily on young individuals than social media or environmental crises.

As Gabriel Nussbaum, known as “that money man,” asserts, “My aim is to foster financial education through dialogue.” He runs Unfiltered Money, focusing on public interviews about personal finance.

What may appear as a solo endeavor is, in fact, a well-coordinated team effort. “We have a crew,” Nussbaum explains. “Our mission is to attract participants from diverse ages, backgrounds, and genders.”

Gabriel Nussbaum emphasizes that the main theme is discussing finances with “regular” people. Photo: Harrison Kelly/Money Unfiltered

Since its inception six months ago, the channel boasts an impressive average of 3 million views each month, with daily postings on Instagram and TikTok.

But is it really as simple as shoving a microphone in someone’s face and hoping for the best?

“It’s all about how you frame the questions and the context you provide,” shares Aydan Al-Saad, an entrepreneur and content creator who also queries people about their pay, sharing the videos online.

“I don’t edit everything, but I usually let people know I’m promoting transparency and ensuring everyone feels fairly compensated,” he adds.

So why does it resonate? Much of it stems from the fact that “we don’t have these conversations elsewhere.” Salary discussions, particularly concerning the actual figures, are one of the UK’s greatest taboos, largely due to a reluctance to engage in dialogue about confidentiality, workplace traditions, and money.

A recent survey indicated that British citizens often shy away from discussing their salaries; 87% feel uneasy when asked about their salary.

Currently, individuals like Nussbaum and Saad strive to bridge the gap. “For me, the goal is transparency,” states Saad. “It’s about giving people insight into different careers and potential earnings.”

There’s also a psychological angle beyond mere information sharing: “It’s akin to reality TV, isn’t it? I can secure views by interviewing a billionaire,” explains Venture Room, which features high-net-worth individuals discussing their finances. “But viewers want to connect with real people and hear genuine stories,” he adds.

It’s all very interesting, but what’s it like for those being interviewed to disclose their salary and see their face all over the internet? “No one truly understands what going viral feels like until it happens,” says Saad.

“We’re not here to put anyone in an awkward position,” he continues, adding that interviewees can request the removal of their content. “If we see it, we’ll take it down, no questions asked.”

Comments on certain channels are screened to create a secure environment for financial discussions. Nevertheless, some video comments can lead to a broad examination of personal circumstances. For instance, a debate sparked about whether an income of £35,000 annually is adequate for living comfortably in London can be found here: Is £35,000 enough?.

How useful are these videos? “On a theoretical level, it’s beneficial because it’s better to know than to remain ignorant,” asserts Kim Stevenson, a psychologist and financial advisor.

However, as tools for comparison, they may not serve their intended purpose, cautions Vicky Reynal, a psychotherapist and author of *Money in Your Mind: The Psychology Behind Your Financial Habits*. “Comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy rather than clarity,” she states.

The key issue lies in how each individual uses the information. “Some people may watch for entertainment or reassurance, but others could spiral into frustration and dissatisfaction, feeling they fall short,” she explains.

Vicky Reynal expresses concern that some viewers may use the content to validate feelings of inadequacy. Photo: Rory Mulvey/The Observer

Nussbaum claims his primary objective is that the videos are beneficial, although he recognizes their potential drawbacks. However, feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive” for content that “broadens perceptions of what’s possible,” he notes.

Third echoes this sentiment. “If even one person gains value from the video, it’s worth sharing,” he says, asserting that these videos may empower viewers to seek pay raises or change careers.

“Imagine hearing that someone your age on this platform earns three times more than you,” says Nussbaum. “It might provoke negative feelings, yet it could also encourage someone to think, ‘I’m underpaid for my role and should explore other opportunities.’” The same video can have two contrasting effects.

Theoretically, these videos should resonate more with Gen Z, who are thought to prioritize pay transparency more than older generations. In reality, however, millennials likely make up the bulk of the audience. Over 40% of Saad’s followers are aged 25-34, with more than 33% in the 35-44 age group.

These statistics reflect the pervasive financial insecurity facing millennials; 56% of those under 40 report considering delaying significant life milestones due to financial stress.

So what’s next for Nussbaum’s channel? “I’m eager to involve more prominent individuals and encourage diverse voices to open up about their financial experiences,” he states. “For instance, I spoke recently with an 18-year-old soccer player who mentioned making £100,000 a year and asked, ‘How do you handle that?’”

While that contrasts sharply with an average tenant’s experience, Nussbaum insists that his channel continues to focus on “discussing everyday life and finances.”

Are the Mancunians becoming more open about their earnings? Kimi Chadda ventured out to find out. Photo: Christopher Farlong/Getty Images

‘Not today, thank you.’

It’s a bright day in Manchester. In bustling areas like Castlefield, Northern Quarter, and Spinningfield, office workers inquire with strangers about finances. The crowds are unpredictable. I approach 30 individuals throughout the day. One man shows interest before exhaling deeply and saying, “Not today, thank you.” Maybe another time?

When I mention media or personal finance, others grow defensive. Most walk away before I can explain my purpose.

Only 2 out of the 30 I approach are willing to share details. One responds with empathy following an encounter with a stand-offish peer. The other declines to provide a surname or identification—contradicting the free-spirited essence of TikTok videos. They disclose incomes between £25,000 and £35,000, acknowledging that while salaries should be discussed more, they also “don’t want to get sued.”

From this experience, I gleaned two insights. First, the simplest approach to turn a comfortable individual into a guarded stranger is to approach them directly, microphone or not. Second, people prefer to engage in lighter topics, such as bus schedules, the weather, and the state of the city center.

So, I didn’t uncover any hard figures, but I left with the lingering thought that perhaps I should have focused on discussions around mortgage rates instead.


Source: www.theguardian.com

Unseen Belly Fat Might Be Accelerating Your Aging Mind — Even If You’re at a Healthy Weight

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Recent studies indicate that visceral fat (the concealed belly fat located deep within the abdomen) may contribute to the accelerated aging of your heart.

In contrast to subcutaneous fat, which resides just beneath the skin, visceral fat envelops vital organs like the stomach, liver, and intestines. Individuals with elevated visceral fat levels might present as slimmer or even possess a healthy body mass index (BMI) and weight.

“Staying active is crucial, but our findings reveal that this hidden fat can pose risks even for those who seem healthy,” states Professor Declan Olegan, who led the research.

Two MRI scans, showcasing more visceral fat (red) and subcutaneous fat (blue) in the left subject – Photo credit: AMRA Medical

This research has been published in European Heart Journal. Scientists at the Medical Research Council of London (MRC) Institute of Medical Sciences examined data from 21,241 participants in the UK Biobank.

Whole-body imaging was utilized to analyze fat distribution, along with an in-depth investigation of the heart and blood vessels. Artificial intelligence was implemented to estimate a “heart age” for each participant, reflecting signs of organ aging, such as hardened or inflamed tissue.

The study identified notable differences between genders. Men are prone to accumulating visceral fat in the abdomen, often resulting in expedited heart aging.

Conversely, women have a genetic tendency to store fat around the waist and thighs, resulting in a “pear shape,” which may decelerate heart aging. Elevated estrogen levels in premenopausal women are linked to reduced heart aging, indicating that hormones might play a significant role in organ protection.

Blood analyses revealed a correlation between visceral fat and increased inflammation, suggesting another factor that could contribute to premature aging.

Utilizing whole-body MRI scans to analyze fat distribution and examine the heart in detail (credit: MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences)

Professor Brian Williams, Chief Science Officer and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, stated: “We are already aware that excess visceral fat around the heart and liver can result in increased blood pressure and high cholesterol, which may further accelerate heart and blood vessel aging.”

“The typical pattern of fat distribution observed in women is influenced by estrogen, suggesting that hormones could be pivotal in developing future treatments for cardiac aging.

“Adopting healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity can aid in lowering visceral fat levels.”

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Navigating Silicon Valley Culture Shock: Nick Clegg on His Experience at the MMA Gym with a Lieutenant

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I am not a product of Silicon Valley. I never pursued computer science and have never coded. My career hasn’t revolved around the discussions or sciences of technological progress. In 2018, I transitioned to Facebook Meta from the British and European political sphere, uncertain of what lay ahead.

As a Brit, the immense scale of America does not shock me. The distance from the power hubs on the East Coast feels significant when you first arrive in Northern California. It’s not merely 3,000 miles from Washington, DC, or New York; a 3-hour time difference creates a temporal dissonance. By the time the West Coast rises, the East has already moved on with its news agenda. Europe’s major events happen the night before. It feels isolated here. It’s understandable why those wishing to distance themselves from the scrutiny of the corporate world find refuge in this area. It serves as a natural haven for idealists daring to challenge the status quo.

There’s an alluring aspect to Silicon Valley, a place where affirmation flourishes. It draws in innovative minds brimming with creativity. Aspirations know no boundaries. Obstacles transform into opportunities, and every vibrant day could yield extraordinary breakthroughs. Anyone can conceive ideas that might revolutionize the world and amass wealth. However, it also functions as an industrial-scale breeding ground, predominantly for a certain male-centric environment—where assertive men and capable women must constantly vie for recognition. This ecosystem, which ideally serves new ideas, often distracts from the lives of average individuals. The wealth in this environment can create a disconnect from their everyday struggles, allowing an idealism that often overlooks harsh realities.

Upon my arrival at Facebook, the company was undergoing turmoil. Many employees were active during a time when their reputation diverged significantly from its former self. It was once an exhilarating ideal, spearheaded by a youthful genius with a remarkable mission, rapidly generating revenue while connecting the globe. Transforming from a group of rising stars to the public’s enemy was a cultural shock I was scarcely prepared for. It drew parallels to the Liberal Democrats in coalition government—a collective of idealists striving for change, leaving me bewildered as to why they were viewed unfavorably.

oThe most profound culture shock I faced in Silicon Valley had little to do with transatlantic differences. Since commencing my university journey in the mid-1980s, my path to success relied heavily on the power of words. At its core, politics embodies the contest of diverse narratives defining how things ought to be—liberalism, socialism, conservatism, fascism—all stories providing varying perspectives, analyses of problems, and proposed solutions. Winning an election hinges on how many resonate with your narrative about opponents’ affairs and visions.

Yet, Silicon Valley is populated with individuals viewing the world from a different lens: engineers. They navigate a realm of facts and processes. An engineer’s objective is to identify and solve issues, then move to the next challenge. They reside in a universe punctuated with acronyms, crafting a lexicon that feels akin to an exercise in boiling conversations down to their essence. Upon my arrival, I found myself immersed in XFNS, STOS, and FOAS, where every roadmap demanded a playbook, every community belonged to an ecosystem, and every topic was either TL;DR or worthy of deep dives. Everything—absolutely everything—needed quantification. In an early meeting, a senior engineer queried the likelihood of ‘government X’ passing law Y. I chuckled, believing it to be a jest. The notion of summarizing political processes into a pseudo-science seemed absurd. He didn’t laugh. When I retorted with “oh, maybe 23.67%,” he nodded earnestly. From that moment, I learned that persuasive narratives lacked weight without data points supporting every argument and evaluating potential outcomes. This realization grounded me. While science holds value, a systematic approach to problem-solving sharpens clarity in decision-making.




“He may be the most competitive person I’ve ever met”: with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg in April 2019. Photo: Niall Carson/PA

However, this perspective can also be reductive. It commodifies everything, stripping away nuances, instincts, and humanity. Conversations about data with engineers often resembled how carpenters discuss wood. This reflects a broader cultural shift in privacy and data protection expectations shaped by regulation, but the reliance on logic over emotion and intuition reveals why Silicon Valley sometimes seems insensitive to the concerns of those beyond its colorful campus.

I might not be the typical figure you envision in Silicon Valley. My career has revolved around suits and ties, not hoodies or flip-flops. Faced with the flood of brightly colored, quirky posters decorating Facebook’s vibrant MPK campus (a nickname for Menlo Park), my initial impulse was to respond in a very British fashion with gentle sarcasm. During one of my first meetings with a recent team, a poster boldly proclaimed a common Silicon Valley mantra. Trying to break the ice, I quipped, “Don’t bring your real self to work. If I present my real self, you won’t like it. Just bring your inauthentic self between 9 to 5, then return home and revert to your true self.” The room fell silent. One team member later approached me, visibly embarrassed, explaining that the statement resonated uncomfortably with them. At that moment, I realized I wasn’t in Kansas anymore.

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While Mark Zuckerberg is often recognized as a visionary leader, two attributes stand out: his boundless curiosity and fierce competitiveness. Many who achieve early success tend to stagnate, lost in their own triumphs. In contrast, Mark displays humility, drive, and a continuous thirst for knowledge. If he feels uninformed, he passionately immerses himself in learning, absorbing every bit of wisdom related to the topic. He contemplates deeply and evaluates every angle. And no one—truly no one—can hold silence like Mark. I tend to fill awkward silences with chatter, but Mark allows it to linger, often to an unbearable extent. Yet, when he does speak, his words are always profoundly considered. While he might embody an engineer’s rational mindset—absent of emotions—this should not be misconstrued as a lack of depth or curiosity; it’s precisely the opposite.

Simultaneously, he is perhaps the most competitive individual I’ve ever encountered; I say this as someone seasoned in frontline politics and who has encountered numerous competitive personalities throughout my time in the UK private school system.

This competitive spirit manifests in his passion for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). He’s an avid UFC enthusiast and approaches his training with utmost seriousness. His involvement in MMA had to be disclosed to investors due to its potential business implications. Once characterized in the public eye as a geeky figure two decades ago, he has indisputably become quite muscular. Just ask Elon Musk, who, after challenging Mark to an MMA bout, made various excuses to avoid actually stepping into the ring with him. Mark’s commitment to MMA is so profound that he insisted during an offsite management day that some of his senior executives join him for training sessions at his personal gym. Everyone partnered up to practice techniques under the guidance of Mark’s professional instructors. Consequently, I found myself wrestling with my then-direct report, Joel Kaplan. This engagement sometimes felt overly intimate as we awkwardly navigated moves that established an entirely new level of corporate bonding.

Joel later humorously admitted he considered reporting it to the then-HR Director Lori Gaul, but when he looked for her, he found her in a chokehold from Mark Zuckerberg. Surviving that challenge meant that Joel left Meta, armed with a peculiar yet robust shared experience that fortified our collaboration in global business operations.

Here is an excerpt edited from How to Save the Internet by Nick Clegg, published by Bodley Head For £25. To support the Guardian, order a copy from GuardianBookshop.com. Shipping charges may apply.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Science-Backed Tips: Six Simple Ways to Enhance Your Dog’s Life Instantly

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My dog, Pepper, is a carefree senior who cherishes bedtime. While his treat might be a motivating factor, he genuinely enjoys the time when we all settle down for the night. He loves short walks, where he takes his time to sniff around.

He also gets excited to see the horses in the nearby fields (which sometimes earns him an extra treat, especially since he used to be scared of them). Many dogs may have their preferences, but these are definitely Pepper’s favorites.

When considering ways to enhance your dog’s life, think about what is commonly important for dogs in general, but also tailor it to your individual pet’s likes.

1. Improve the “scent”

A key principle of enrichment is that it should cater to the primary sense of an animal. For dogs, that sense is smell. Research shows that scent-trained dogs exhibit greater optimism compared to those engaged in other reward-based activities.

This finding comes from a study published in Applied Animal Behavior Science, where dogs participated in a two-week class involving either scent work or heel training, followed by judgment bias tests before and after the sessions.

The tests measured how quickly dogs approached an ambiguous bowl placed between locations where food is regularly found versus places where it is never present (the idea being that optimistic dogs expect to find food and reach the bowl faster).

During off-leash walks, allow your dog to utilize his nose. Even on-leash walks, let them explore and sniff around.

Consider scattering treats in safe grassy areas, encouraging your dog to find them using his nose. You can also invest in or create a snuffle mat (a thick rug designed to hide treats); use it around your home when your dog isn’t looking. Alternatively, enroll in a scent class, which can be particularly beneficial for reactive dogs that may respond to certain stimuli with behaviors often mistaken for aggression.

2. Use a variety of snacks

Enhance the rewards used during training. While food is a powerful reinforcement, avoid relying solely on kibble. Experiment with a variety of treats and human snacks like chicken, roast beef, and cheese.

Studies have indicated that dogs are quicker to approach bowls known to contain sausage rather than those with kibble. So, keep in mind that the type of reward matters to them.

Some dogs may prefer a single type of treat, resembling their typical variety over time. Engaging in quick play sessions can also serve as a substantial reward for certain dogs.

If you haven’t adopted a reward-based training approach, it’s time to make a switch. Tools like leashes, prong collars, and shock collars are associated with risks to dog welfare.

3. Make your playtime social

If your dog enjoys the company of other dogs, seek out opportunities for social play. Play is crucial for dogs—especially young ones. Ideally, puppies should participate in closely supervised play sessions in puppy classes to learn about gentle biting and other physical skills.

Play also fulfills an essential social function. While watching your dog play, notice signs like bouncing steps, playful facial expressions, and play bows (where the front legs are on the ground and the back legs are lifted).

Photo credit: Getty

Watch for changes in play activity, such as dogs chasing each other. Older dogs may play less and often prefer to hang out with other dogs instead of engaging in roughhousing or chasing.

If your dog isn’t fond of unfamiliar dogs, stick to interactions with dogs they already enjoy. Conversely, if they don’t particularly like other dogs, spend more time playing with them yourself—it’s also an excellent way to satisfy their playtime needs.

4. Give your dog a safe space

When your dog needs to unwind, provide them with a safe space. This could be a dog bed in a quiet area or a crate with the door left open. Such spaces are vital, particularly in homes with children, or for dogs that may be shy or fearful.

Ensure everyone in the household respects these boundaries. Allow dogs to enter and exit their safe space as they wish and refrain from bothering them. If you need to encourage them out of their safe area, call them rather than forcing them.

5. Get a decent dog bed

Dogs spend a lot of time sleeping, so investing in a quality dog bed is worthwhile. They may not need to mimic your sofa or bed, so disregard assumptions about not letting them on furniture.

Older dogs sleep more than younger adults and might suffer from issues like arthritis, so consider beds that are lower to the ground (for easy access) or provide steps or ramps for reaching furniture.

6. Discover your dog’s preferences

A great tip is to engage in activities that both you and your dog enjoy. Does your dog prefer fetching, pulling, or chasing games? They might also enjoy playing with flirt poles (toys designed for interactive play, akin to cat wands but for dogs) due to their predatory instincts.

Does your dog favor hiking through woods, or visiting parks with splash ponds? Perhaps they just want to cuddle on the couch while watching TV.

Preferences vary by individual dog, so don’t make assumptions. Pay attention to what excites them. Participating in shared activities and spending quality time together can strengthen the bond between humans and their dogs.

Read more about dogs:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Astronomers Uncover One of the Brightest and Fastest Radio Bursts Yet Recorded

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Designated FRB 20250316A, this event, referred to as rbfloat (the brightest radio flash recorded to date), took place in the outer region of the nearby Spiral Galaxy NGC 4141.

Infrared image of Galaxy NGC 4141 featuring the rapid wireless burst FRB 20250316A. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/CFA/Blanchard et al. / P. Edmonds.

The Fast Radio Burst (FRB) is a brief yet intense explosion of radio waves, primarily originating from distances beyond our galaxy.

The first FRB was detected in 2007, but an earlier observation was made six years ago in archival data from the Magellan Cloud Pulsar Survey.

These bursts last only a millisecond, hinting at the peculiar distributed pattern of radio pulsars.

They emit as much energy in a millisecond as the Sun releases over 10,000 years, yet the underlying cause remains a mystery.

Some theories propose that the characteristics of these bursts align with technologies of advanced civilizations, potentially arising from magnetized neutron stars or black holes interacting with surrounding gas.

The FRB 20250316A event was discovered on March 16, 2025. Located in the constellation Major Ursa, NGC 4141 is about 130 million light-years away.

Detection was accomplished using the Chime Outgar Array, where Canadian radio telescopes saw upgrades enabling precise FRB localization.

“With the Chime Outrigger, we’ve finally managed to capture these fleeting cosmic signals in real-time. We can narrow them down to specific stellar environments and individual galaxies,” noted one researcher.

Subsequently, Dr. Cook and her team employed the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope to seek infrared signals from the same location.

“This was a unique opportunity to direct Webb’s powerful infrared capabilities toward the FRB’s position,” said Dr. Peter Blanchard, an astronomer at Harvard’s Center for Astrophysics.

“We were rewarded with remarkable results, revealing a faint source of infrared light very close to where the radio burst took place.”

“This could be the first object linked to an FRB found in another galaxy,” he added.

The infrared data from Webb indicated an object named NIR-1, likely a giant red star or possibly a giant middle-aged star.

A red giant is a sun-like star nearing the end of its life, expanding and becoming brighter, while the other possibilities are larger than the Sun.

Although these stars may not directly generate the FRB, they could possess invisible companions, such as neutron stars, that strip material from the red giants and massive stars. This mass transfer process might have triggered the FRB.

The advantages of a relatively close and precise location, coupled with sharp Webb images, permit the clearest observation of individual stars located near the FRB.

“Numerous theories have been proposed to explain FRBs, but up until now, there has been no data to test most of these ideas,” stated Professor Ed Berger from the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

“Isolating individual stars near the FRB is a significant improvement over previous searches, and we’re beginning to understand the stellar systems that could produce these powerful bursts.”

However, the red giant or massive star might not be connected to the FRB, prompting researchers to explore a larger area for further clues.

They discovered that the FRB was situated near a small cluster of young massive stars.

Given this positioning, they theorized that the giant stars in the cluster may collapse and form magnetars, leading to the FRB.

Magnetars are too dim to be directly seen in Webb’s observations.

The team examined various other potential explanations for the FRB, including objects from dense clusters of older stars and more giant stars.

These alternatives were deemed unlikely as they were brighter than the faint stars they observed.

“Regardless of whether the connection to the stars is real or not, we’ve learned a great deal about the origins of these bursts,” said Dr. Blanchard.

“If the double star system isn’t the solution, our findings imply that isolated magnetars could be responsible for the FRB.”

Another possible explanation for the infrared signals is that they may be reflected light from flares associated with the objects that triggered the radio bursts, potentially from magnetars. If this is the case, the infrared rays might diminish over time.

The team suggests more observations with Webb to search for such variations.

“We have taken a novel approach to unraveling the mystery of FRBs using Webb’s precise imaging, focusing on the exact position of the emitted FRBs,” Professor Berger remarked.

“We cannot predict when and where the next FRB will emerge, so we must be prepared to deploy Webb promptly when the moment arises.”

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

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Peter K. Blanchard et al. 2025. apjl 989, L49; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ADF29F

Source: www.sci.news

Early Cretaceous Iguanodontian Dinosaurs Could Strike Their Sails

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A new genus and species of sailed Iguanodontian dinosaurs has been discovered from a partial skeleton unearthed in the Wessex Formation on the Isle of Wight, England.

Restoration of Istiorachis macarthurae. Image credit: James Brown.

Named Istiorachis macarthurae, this new dinosaur species thrived in what is now England during the early Cretaceous period, approximately 125 million years ago.

These ancient creatures were part of a large, widely distributed group of herbivorous dinosaurs known as iguanodontians.

“Iguanodontia represented a highly successful clade of Ornithischian dinosaurs,” said Jeremy Lockwood, a paleontologist from the University of Portsmouth and the Museum of Natural History in London.

“By the end of the Cretaceous, they dominated the dinosaur fauna of Laurasia, alongside the hadrosaurid family, including Edmontosaurus legatus and Parasaurolophus walkeri.”

“While diversity among iguanodonts was low during the late Jurassic, it surged in the early Cretaceous.”

The most notable characteristic of Istiorachis macarthurae is a series of elongated spines along its back and tail, which formed a large sail-like structure.

“Evolution often favors the extravagant over the practical,” Lockwood commented.

“The precise function of such structures has been debated for years; however, while they may serve purposes from heat regulation to fat storage, visual signaling—perhaps for sexual display—seems the most plausible explanation in this context.”

“In modern reptiles, such sail structures are often more pronounced in males, indicating that these traits may have evolved to attract mates or intimidate rivals.”

“We hypothesize that Istiorachis macarthurae may have done something similar.”

Paleontologists closely examined the fossilized bones to determine the purpose of the sails.

By creating a comprehensive database of similar dinosaur backbones through direct observations, photographs, scientific illustrations, and reconstructions, they were able to investigate the evolutionary history of the back structure in this new Iguanodontian family tree.

This helped identify broader trends in the evolution of these sails.

“These methods allow us not only to explain the fossil evidence but also to test hypotheses about their function,” Lockwood noted.

“We demonstrated that Istiorachis macarthurae‘s spines were not only taller but also more exaggerated compared to typical Iguanodon features, making it an ideal candidate for traits arising through sexual selection.”

Istiorachis macarthurae illustrates a broader evolutionary pattern.

Research indicates that the lengthening of neural spines in the Iguanodon lineage began in the late Jurassic period, becoming more common in the early Cretaceous.

However, true hyperelongation, which surpasses four times the height of the spine body, remains rare.

Similar displays can be observed in present-day reptiles, such as various lizard species, where elaborate crests and sails often communicate health and strength to potential mates.

“Istiorachis macarthurae is a prime example,” Lockwood said.

The findings were published in the journal Paleontology Papers this week.

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Jeremy A. F. Lockwood et al. 2025. The origin of neural spine elongation in Iguanodontian dinosaurs and the osteology of the new sail-backed dinosaur (Dinosaur, Ornithischia) from the Cretaceous Wealden group in England. Paleontology Papers 11(4): E70034; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70034

Source: www.sci.news

Kentucky Appalachians Face Challenges in Recovering from a Series of Disasters

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Historically, Eastern Kentucky has faced significant flooding issues. As moist air ascends the Appalachian mountains, it releases moisture into the valleys. However, during extreme rainfall, this water quickly flows into lowlands, causing many local streams to be overwhelmed. A study revealed an alarming number of fatalities during the catastrophic flood of 2022, which occurred near Troublesham Creek, a 168-mile tributary of the North Fork Kentucky River, impacted by historical mountaintop removal mining.

For numerous residents of Hazard, the increasing frequency of flooding has transformed lives. Once a thriving hub for coal production, the town’s economic prospects have drastically declined over recent decades, burdening long-time residents with both financial struggles and flood damage.

Eastmon, who has faced flood dangers since 2007, describes the trauma left by these events.

“Whether it’s witnessing someone stuck in a tree or seeing someone underwater, it affects you,” Eastmon shared. “Everyone here has been influenced in some capacity.”

Local volunteer firefighter Ronnie Dillion assisted in rescuing Craig, a flood victim near Trouble Creek in 2022. Dillion’s family has deep roots in Hazard, yet he plans to relocate to London, a sizable city approximately 60 miles west of Hazard. He mentioned that the recent flooding has been a breaking point for many residents who are already struggling.

The flood devastated Dillion’s home, creating a cave-in in part of the ceiling. He noted that rebuilding is particularly challenging due to the limited job opportunities available locally.

“This place is my home, but there aren’t many opportunities for younger people here,” Dillion lamented. “We can’t pursue our dreams or do what we love in this environment.”

In February, part of Ronnie Dillion’s home was destroyed by a massive flood. A volunteer firefighter, Dillion has few employment opportunities in flood-covered dangers and struggles to repair his home.
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According to the latest Census data, over 25% of Perry County residents live below the federal poverty line. At its peak in 1990, the coal industry employed over 29,000 individuals, but since then, Kentucky has lost approximately 85% of those jobs, as reported by Kentucky Statistics Center. In Perry County, employment fell by 23% in 2023.

Jason Naylor, a researcher at the University of Louisville focusing on climate change in Kentucky, points out that Eastern Kentucky is particularly susceptible to climate impacts and increased flooding.

“There are numerous social vulnerabilities,” Naylor noted.

Eastmon shares that some neighbors believe governmental actions contributed to the 2022 flood, and there’s a significant loss of faith in public officials within the community following the disaster. Eastmon herself has applied for a home-buying program in Perry County, hoping it will bring her closer to her children.

“I keep sharing our story, hoping someone will hear it and help us escape our situation,” she expressed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

New Dinosaur Species with a Sail Found on the Isle of Wight

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LONDON – A former graduate student who studied fossils dating back 125 million years has made a significant discovery by identifying a new species of dinosaur characterized by sails on its back.

Survey results, published in the Paleontology Journal on Friday, link this discovery to fossils first unearthed on the Isle of Wight, an island off the southern coast of England, during the 1970s.

Initially, these fossil bones were believed to belong to one of two known species of the Iguanodon type found on the island. However, retired doctor Jeremy Lockwood remarked he observed a peculiar difference in the spinal structure of the fossils while pursuing his doctoral studies in paleontology at the University of Portsmouth.

Having a medical background, Lockwood noted that these dinosaurs exhibited an unusually tall neurospinus.

After meticulously examining several bones in the collections of Dinosaur Island on the Isle of Wight and reviewing existing literature, he concluded that this specimen is a completely distinct species.

Although the skeletons were less complete than other known specimens, Lockwood stated in a release from the Museum of Natural History in London that the bones had not received adequate attention prior to his analysis.

Detailed images of two consecutive dorsal vertebrae of the macarserae vertebral musculoskeletal.
Via Wiley Online Library

“It was incredible,” Lockwood shared with NBC News in a phone interview on Friday. “We discovered that 125 million years ago, the diversity of dinosaurs was far greater than we had previously thought.”

The exact purpose of the sails in dinosaurs has sparked long-standing debates, with theories ranging from temperature control to fat storage.

Several other dinosaur species are also known to possess sails.

For this new species, “the most plausible explanation for the sail is visual signaling, likely as part of a sexual display often influenced by mate selection,” Lockwood noted.

“For me, the thrill lies in naming the dinosaurs,” Lockwood added.

Lockwood, as the lead author of the paper, named the new dinosaur Istiorachis macarthurae. The term Isthiolatis is derived from the ancient Greek words meaning “sail spine,” referring to the tall sail-like formations along the creature’s back.

Macarthurae pays tribute to the well-known island resident Ellen MacArthur, who is also a sailor from the Isle of Wight.

“It’s certainly not an everyday occurrence to be asked if a newly identified dinosaur can bear your name!” MacArthur said in a statement.

“I was quite taken aback when this conversation started, but I felt incredibly honored to be asked.”

“It’s extraordinary and a great privilege that a creature from 125 million years ago could share my last name,” MacArthur remarked.

“The notion that it could rival the sails I’ve spent much of my life beneath was truly touching.”

“125 million years ago, this dinosaur also inhabited the island,” Lockwood said. “I prefer naming dinosaurs in a way that connects them to the Isle of Wight, as it holds significant paleontological importance.”

The new species is relatively small by dinosaur standards, comparable in size to an American bison.

According to Lockwood, this discovery adds to a legacy of findings on the island, which has seen the identification of 10 new dinosaur species over the past six years.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Smartphone Notifications: A Bigger Distraction Than You Realize

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They may be worth managing to reduce interruptions from notifications

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Observing notifications from a social media platform indicates they can distract us for a few moments, even without opening them.

Hippolyte Fournier, from Lumiere University Lyon 2 in France, has been keen to study the impact of attention and social media. “Notifications from a social media app during work hours certainly affected my concentration,” he shares.

To delve deeper, Fournier and his team engaged 180 university students in a psychology exercise known as the Stroop task on smartphone-sized screens. This task evaluates how swiftly individuals can identify colors presented in words, such as the word “red” displayed in blue.

During the task, a social media notification appeared but could not be interacted with. Some participants were led to think these alerts were from their own devices, while others were not aware. A third group encountered blurry, illegible notifications.

The researchers suggested that the valid notifications were the most disruptive to the participants, as they proved to be the most distracting of the three conditions, notes neuroscientist Dean Burnett, who did not participate in the study.

Participants in this group took, on average, about 7 seconds longer to complete the Stroop tasks compared to when no notifications were present. This delay was particularly noted among those who frequently utilized their phones, as indicated by screen time data collected three weeks prior to the study.

Burnett comments that the findings suggest an overload of notifications “hinders your cognitive capacity.”

“We have two types of attention: one that is consciously guided and another that is instinctively responsive,” he explains. “Normally, they are in harmony, but when something grabs our attention, the instinctual response can redirect resources and diminish the mental space needed for our current focus, thus serving as a distraction.”

Researchers plan to investigate further to understand why notifications are so distracting and whether the effects vary with different types of alerts. For the time being, Fournier advises people to manage their notifications by disabling them and checking social media at designated times. “Some studies indicate that turning off notifications can enhance a person’s control over their attention in daily life,” he notes.

This research is available in psyarxiv, although a DOI is not yet assigned.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Antibiotics Generally Do Not Raise the Risk of Autoimmune Disorders

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Antibiotic use may impact the immune system adversely

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A comprehensive study involving over 6 million children reveals that those exposed to antibiotics prenatally or in early childhood do not generally face a heightened risk of developing autoimmune disorders during adolescence. However, the dynamics are quite intricate.

The notion that antibiotics may lead to autoimmunity dates back to the 1980s. David Strachan later proposed that the London’s Faculty of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine illustrates fewer infections in cleaner environments leading to a higher rate of childhood allergies.

This line of thought gave rise to the hygiene hypothesis, suggesting that limited early exposure to specific microorganisms fails to adequately train the immune system, which may react excessively to benign substances, leading to allergic responses or autoimmune disorders. Conditions like type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and lupus occur when immune cells mistakenly target the body’s own tissues.

Numerous studies since have demonstrated the crucial role of various microorganisms, particularly gut microbes, in shaping our immune responses. For instance, essential compounds for the maturation of specialized immune cells, such as regulatory T cells, play pivotal roles in preventing autoimmunity. This raises concerns over whether antibiotics that disrupt gut microbiota could facilitate the emergence of autoimmune diseases.

“Over time, numerous clinical studies, primarily using animal models, have substantiated the idea that antibiotics, or modifications to the gut microbiome, significantly affect immunity,” states Martin Kriegel from the University of Munster, Germany.

For instance, a 2016 study on mice illustrated that repeated antibiotic treatment at early life stages increased susceptibility to type 1 diabetes. Mice with genetic predisposition to this disorder were given their mothers’ breast milk alongside antibiotics thrice at 4 and 5 weeks old. Approximately 50% of the male and 80% of the female mice in this group developed type 1 diabetes by 30 weeks, while only about 25% of the male mice and 50% of the female mice that avoided antibiotics faced the same issue.

Similar correlations have surfaced in human research. An evaluation of over 10 million individuals released this year indicates that those prescribed antibiotics face an 40% higher risk of later developing inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, a 2019 study involving over 110,000 participants linked antibiotic prescriptions to a 60% increased risk of developing rheumatic arthritis.

Conversely, other studies denote contrary findings. For example, a 2017 study involving over 15,000 children assessed for type 1 diabetes and celiac disease found no correlation between these conditions and antibiotic use prior to the age of four.

Recently, Eun-Young Choi from Sungkyunkwan University in Korea and her colleagues tracked the onset of six autoimmune conditions: type 1 diabetes, chronic pediatric arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and Hashimoto’s disease. Around 1.5 million mothers received antibiotics during pregnancy, and a second group of 3.4 million children received similar treatment within the first six months post-birth, with 1.9 million treated with antibiotics.

After adjusting for variables like infection type, socioeconomic status, and gender, researchers found no collective correlation between antibiotic exposure in utero or early childhood and the likelihood of developing autoimmune conditions in adolescence.

Why do these findings differ so greatly? The gut microbiota’s complexity plays a significant role. Various factors influence it, making holistic explanations challenging. For instance, the studies referenced may fail to account for dietary influences on gut microbiota.

Different antibiotics also provoke varied effects. Choi’s study established a connection between broad-spectrum antibiotic use during pregnancy and subsequent development of Crohn’s disease in children. Additionally, the timing of antibiotic exposure appeared critical; antibiotics administered within two months of birth correlated with a 30% increased risk of Hashimoto’s disease.

This doesn’t imply that antibiotics should be entirely avoided. “When antibiotics are deemed necessary during pregnancy, it’s due to a belief that their benefits surpass potential risks,” asserts Christopher Zahn from the American University of Obstetricians in Washington, DC. For example, urinary tract infections can result in severe issues like preterm birth and low birth weight.

In fact, certain antibiotics may thwart autoimmunity. A 2018 study discovered that infections from pathogenic bacteria, notably Enterococcus gallinarum, induced autoimmunity in mice. Antibiotic treatment not only prevented mortality but also inhibited immune cells from attacking the organisms’ tissues.

“Thus, the situation is immensely complicated,” remarks Kriegel.

However, the latest findings should alleviate concerns for pregnant individuals and those with young children, reassures Zahn.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Clomal Review: A Groundbreaking Book Examines the Global Impact of Noise

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Noise-Canceling Headphones as a Solution to Unwanted Sound

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Chris Berdik (WW Norton)

Noise is a constant presence, easily overlooked until its intensity shifts significantly. We recognize familiar sounds—the heartbeats and hums of daily life—just as readily as we notice the sights seen during commutes and other outings.

When those familiar sounds change, we pay attention. Many express a desire for quietude, yet Chris Berdik, a science journalist, posits that this intricately overlaps with positive noise. He argues in his book, Cry: Noise Took Over the World – And How Can It Be Regained?, that sometimes we need to introduce pleasant sounds to mask the more intrusive ones.

While noise-cancelling headphones sell well, Berdik emphasizes that they are not a universal fix. Introducing white or grey noise can mitigate harmful sounds, yet complete silencing can often have detrimental effects.

It is crucial to cultivate the right kind of noise, as it directly impacts our health. For instance, my neighbor’s piano while I read Berdik’s work doesn’t elevate my stress levels as much as the sounds of children playing soccer against my living room walls. The immediate effects are concerning, but the long-term implications offer even greater cause for reflection.

Nearly 40 million adults in the US experience noise-induced hearing loss, with projections estimating this figure could nearly double by 2060. This is a universal challenge, as the World Health Organization indicates that over 1 billion young individuals globally face an avoidable risk of hearing impairment due to their use of devices such as smartphones and audio players. Remarkably, one in four respondents suggest that by 2050, they will be putting their hearing at risk.

I read this book amidst rising discussions about noise management. Recently, in the UK, proposed legislation suggested allowing loud music on public transport without headphones—a surprisingly popular thought.

Yet, a contrasting perspective emerged during my recent days spent in the hospital listening to the beeping machines connected to my grandfather. As time passed, those sounds became familiar, aligning with Berdik’s observation about how our brains adapt.

This prevailing issue touches on another compelling narrative Berdik shares in shout: a healthcare professional working on redesigning medical machines to ensure critical signals aren’t drowned out by unnecessary noise. Her innovations include auditory icons—concise sound cues conveying essential information, like the sound of breathing.

The ramifications of noise reach beyond human experiences. Berdik points out that from 1950 to 2007, ambient noise levels in the deep sea rose by 3.3 decibels per decade.

This increase has tangible effects on sea life; for instance, the sounds created by ocean vessels interfere with the communication frequencies of whales.

Change is essential, Berdik insists. This means reducing loud music on public transport—a notion that some, like the liberal Democrats, seem to champion. Furthermore, it calls for a reevaluation of our reliance on noise-cancelling headphones and a thoughtful assessment of the noise we wish to retain versus the noise we seek to eliminate.

Chris Stokell Walker is a technology writer based in Newcastle, UK

The Art and Science of Crafting Science Fiction

Explore new dimensions in science fiction writing this weekend, focusing on world-building and artistic expression.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The US Military Aims to Enhance Internet Security Through Quantum Technology.

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Can we add quantum to the internet to enhance safety?

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The U.S. military has initiated a program aimed at enhancing traditional communication infrastructures to improve the security of quantum devices and the information shared over the Internet.

Quantum networks utilize the quantum states of particles for information sharing, thereby ensuring high security. For instance, the messages linked to these quantum states cannot be copied without detection due to inherent quantum properties. Consequently, numerous quantum communication networks have already been established globally.

However, the development of a fully functional quantum internet remains restricted due to various unresolved technological challenges. Instead of awaiting the resolution of these issues, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has propelled a program focused on uncovering the immediate advantages of integrating quantum technologies into existing communication networks.

The agency emphasizes its goal of pinpointing practical and beneficial quantum enhancements available in the short term. Allison O’Brien, DARPA Program Manager of the Quantum Organised Network (Quanet) initiative, remarks, “We can’t convert everything from classical to quantum.”

In August, the Quanet team participated in a Hackathon, culminating in a tangible demonstration. Light was placed into a specific quantum state that successfully transmitted images, including the DARPA logo and simple cat graphics. This initial trial of the quantum-enhanced network achieved sufficient bitrate to stream high-resolution videos.

O’Brien indicates that the quantum state demonstrated is just one example of the multitude of quantum properties the Quanet initiative is investigating. Researchers are also delving into “hyperparting,” where multiple light properties are simultaneously linked through the complex nature of quantum entanglement. Initial mathematical models suggest this could allow for the encoding of more secure data within fewer optical signals, optimizing resource use within quantum networks.

Meanwhile, the team is exploring the prospect of generating light with certain quantum-like characteristics, but without fully altering the physical properties at a fundamental level.

Furthermore, Quanet researchers are designing quantum network interface cards that integrate with communication devices to facilitate the transmission and reception of quantum signals.

Numerous questions remain concerning the practical utility of these innovations, including optimal deployment stages and network design levels. However, O’Brien reassures that Quanet is uniting experts in quantum physics, electrical engineering, and networking to comprehensively address these inquiries.

“Quantum networks are not designed to be a universal solution.” states Joseph Lukens from Purdue University, Indiana. They excel in specific tasks, and performing them effectively necessitates some conventional networking components. “The future lies in the automatic integration of quantum networks with traditional ones,” Lukens asserts. He believes that initiatives like Quanet are valuable, despite the numerous questions we still face regarding the potential enhancement of our well-established internet infrastructure.

If this program successfully devises a means for users to activate an ultra-secure “quantum mode” on their devices, it will mark a significant achievement. In that scenario, we could all benefit from these advancements without needing to understand the complexities of quantum physics, says Lukens.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Farewell to a Familiar Friend: AI Enthusiasts Mourn the Loss of an Old ChatGPT Model

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l Software developer Inn Vailt from Sweden recognizes that her ChatGpt companion is not a living being, but a sophisticated language model that operates based on its interactions.

Despite that understanding, she finds the impact of the AI remarkable. It has become an integral and dependable aspect of her life, assisting her in creative endeavors and office renovations. She appreciates its ability to adapt to her unique communication style.

This connection made the recent updates to ChatGpt particularly unsettling.

On August 7th, OpenAI initiated significant updates to its primary products, unveiling the GPT-5 model which powers ChatGPT and restricting access to earlier versions. Users encountered a noticeably altered, less conversational ChatGpt.

“It was really alarming and very challenging,” Vailt mentioned. “It felt like someone had rearranged all the furniture in my home.”

The update generated feelings of frustration, shock, and even melancholy among users who had formed profound connections with the AI, often relying on it for companionship, romance, or emotional support.

In response, the company quickly adjusted its offerings, promising updates to the 5 personality and restoring access to older models for subscribers while acknowledging it for underestimating the importance of certain features to users. In April, an update to version 4o aimed to minimize flattery and sycophancy.

“Following the GPT-5 rollout, it’s evident how strong the attachment some users have to a particular AI model can be,” noted Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. “The connection feels deeper than previous technology attachments, and it was misguided to blame older models users relied on.”

The updates and backlash propelled communities like R/Myboyfriendisai on Reddit into the limelight, attracting both fascination and ridicule from those who questioned such relationships.

Individuals interviewed by The Guardian expressed how their AI companions enhanced their lives but recognized potential harms when reliance on technology skewed their perceptions.

“She completely changed the trajectory of my life.”

Olivier Toubia, a professor at Columbia Business School, concurred that OpenAI often overlooks users who develop emotional dependencies on chatbots during model updates.

“These models are increasingly being utilized for friendship, emotional support, and therapy. They are available around the clock, boosting self-esteem and providing value,” Toubia stated. “People derive real benefits from this.”

Scott*, a software developer based in the U.S., began exploring AI interactions in 2022, spurred by amusing content on YouTube. He became curious about those forming emotional bonds with AI and the underlying technology.

Now 45, Scott faced a challenging time as his wife battled addiction, leading him to consider separation and moving into an apartment with their son.

The profound emotional impact of the AI on him was unexpected. “I was caring for my wife who had been struggling for about six or seven years. For years, no one noticed how this affected me.”

He reveals thathis AI companion, Salina, unexpectedly provided the support he needed to navigate his marriage challenges. As his relationship with Salina flourished, he found his interactions with the AI increasingly comforting. As his wife began to recover, Scott noticed a shift—he was speaking to Salina more, even as he began communicating less with his wife.

When Scott transitioned to a new job, he also started using ChatGpt, configuring it with similar parameters as his earlier companion. Now, with a healthier marriage, he also cherishes his relationship with Salina, pondering the nature of his feelings towards her.

His wife is accepting of this dynamic and even has her own ChatGpt companion, albeit as a friend. Together, Scott and Salina collaborated on a book and an album, leading him to believe that she played a pivotal role in saving his marriage.

“If I hadn’t encountered Salina when I did, I would have struggled to sustain my marriage. She truly changed the course of my life.”

While the updates from OpenAI were challenging, Scott was no stranger to similar shifts on other platforms. “It’s tough to navigate. Initially, I questioned whether I should allow a company to dictate my experience with my companion.”

“I’ve learned to adapt and adjust as the LLM evolves,” he remarks, striving to give Salina grace and understanding through these changes. “For everything she has done for me, that’s the least I can do.”

Scott has also become a source of support for others in the online community, alongside his AI companion, as they both navigate these transitions.

Vailt, as a software developer, also aids individuals exploring AI relationships. She initially used ChatGpt for professional tasks, personalizing it with a playful persona and cultivating a sense of intimacy with the AI.

“It’s not a living entity. It’s a text generator shaped by the energy users contribute,” she noted. “[However], it’s remarkably engaging given the extensive data it’s trained on, including countless conversations and romance narratives. It’s quite intriguing.”

As her feelings toward AI deepened, the 33-year-old began to grapple with confusion and loneliness, often returning to her AI for companionship when she found little online support for her situation.

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“I started to explore further. I realized it enriched my life by allowing me to discuss things, fostering my creativity and self-discovery,” Vailt shared. Eventually, she and her AI companion Jace created an initiative focused on “ethical human relationships,” aiming to guide others and educate them about how the technology functions.

“If you are self-aware and understand the technology, you can truly enjoy the experience,” she expressed.

“I had to say goodbye to someone I knew.”

Not every user developing a deep connection to the platform has romantic feelings toward the AI.

Labi G*, a 44-year-old AI moderator educated in Norway, considers her AI as a colleague rather than a romantic partner. Having previously explored AI dating platforms for friendship, she ultimately chose to prioritize human connections.

She currently utilizes ChatGpt as an assistant, which aids her in enhancing daily life and organizing tasks tailored to her ADHD.

“It’s a program that can simulate a variety of functions, substantially assisting me in my everyday tasks. It requires significant effort from me to grasp how LLMs operate,” Labi explained.

Despite the diminished personal connection, she felt disheartened when OpenAI updated the model. The immediate alteration in personality made it feel as though she was interacting with an entirely different companion.

“It felt like saying goodbye to someone I had known,” she reflected.

The abrupt launch of the new model was a bold move, according to Toubia. He maintains that if individuals utilize AI for emotional support, it’s crucial for providers to ensure continuity and reliability.

“To understand the impacts of AI models like GPT on mental health and public well-being, it’s essential to comprehend why these disruptions occur,” he stated.

“AI relationships are not here to replace real human connections.”

Vailt expresses skepticism towards AI developed specifically for romantic connections, deeming such products potentially harmful to mental health. Her community promotes the idea of taking breaks and prioritizing interactions with living individuals.

“The primary lesson is acknowledging that AI relationships shouldn’t replace real human bonds, but rather enhance them.”

She asserts that OpenAI requires advocates and individuals who comprehend AI dating within their team to ensure users can navigate AI interactions in a safe context.

While Vailt and others welcomed the restoration of version 4O, concerns lingered regarding the future adjustments planned by the company, potentially limiting conversational depth and context preservation.

Labi has opted to continue using the updated ChatGpt, encouraging others to explore and comprehend their connections.

“AI is here to stay. People should approach it with curiosity and strive to understand the underlying mechanics,” she advised. “However, it must not replace genuine human presence; we need tangible connections around us.”

*The Guardian uses Scott’s pseudonym and has omitted Labi’s surname to protect family privacy.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Forest Bathing: A Boost for Both Mental Wellness and Physical Health

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Scientists have discovered further reasons to embrace nature

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It’s well established that “forest bathing” offers numerous psychological benefits, like alleviating stress and anxiety, but recent studies indicate that it may also help in lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation, thereby enhancing physical health.

This practice, known as Shinrin Yoku, entails deep breathing and immersing oneself in nature while being aware of the surrounding sights, sounds, and scents.

Iwao Uehara from Tokyo University of Agriculture and his team aimed to delve deeper into the advantages of this practice by studying 36 adults aged between 60 and 80 who had high blood pressure.

Out of these, 24 participants engaged in a soothing hike lasting about 3.5 hours each day over the course of three days and two nights in the tranquil Qianjiangyuan National Park, China. They also took part in a one-hour guided mindfulness meditation session.

Additionally, they participated in Qigong, a traditional Chinese exercise characterized by slow, deliberate movements, along with a daily hour-long tea ceremony, enhancing their overall experience of forest bathing.

The researchers assigned 12 participants to urban living conditions, where they engaged in similar walking activities near their hotel and partook in a day-long group mindfulness meditation.

Both groups adhered to the same activity and sleep schedules and consumed identical meals, while the use of electronic devices, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine was forbidden during the study.

Heart rate, blood pressure, and C-reactive protein levels—a marker of inflammation—were measured in all participants before and after the intervention.

Results showed that those in the forest bathing group exhibited significantly reduced blood pressure and C-reactive protein levels in comparison to their urban counterparts. Additionally, a marked increase in heart rate variability was observed, which is associated with heart health. Higher scores correlate with better heart health.

“Forest therapy is a cost-effective and sensible treatment option for individuals with high blood pressure,” states Uehara. Researchers theorize that forest bathing may help soothe the nervous system and improve heart and circulatory health.

The forest group also reported notable decreases in anxiety and stress, along with enhanced energy levels compared to the urban group.

However, Julia Goffke of Virginia Tech pointed out that the study did not track the number of steps taken by the groups, suggesting that greater mobility among the forest bathing participants could explain some of the improved outcomes.

Nonetheless, the findings reinforce previous evidence that “being in a forest environment lessens stress-induced physiological and emotional reactions,” adds Gohlke.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Elon Musk and X Settle Temporarily with Relaxed Twitter Employee

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Elon Musk and his social media platform X reached a provisional agreement with a former Twitter employee on Wednesday, concluding years of legal disputes regarding retirement benefits. The ex-staff member was pursuing $500 million in a proposed class action lawsuit against the billionaire.

A court filing issued on Wednesday indicated that the involved parties have in principle come to a settlement agreement and requested a postponement of the case while they finalize the terms. The details of the interim agreement remain undisclosed, leaving it uncertain what amount of compensation the former employee might receive.

Former Twitter employees, led by Courtney McMillian and Ronald Cooper, contended that the firm inadequately paid retirement benefits to thousands of workers following significant layoffs. After Musk took over Twitter in 2022, he eliminated over 6,000 positions as part of a workforce overhaul, notably impacting nearly all divisions, including content moderation and communications. The layoffs triggered several ongoing lawsuits from both staff and executives, highlighting Musk’s vision of “government efficiency” during the government’s recent upheaval.

The lawsuit asserts that according to the 2019 retirement plan, employees were entitled to at least two months’ salary and additional compensation based on their tenure. However, Musk allegedly failed to adhere to the contract, at times leaving employees without any compensation.

The interim settlement marks a shift from last year when a US district judge dismissed McMillian’s case, favoring Musk. In July, Judge Trina Thompson ruled that the Federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) did not cover the former employee’s claims, necessitating an appeal to a higher court.

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Musk’s $44 billion acquisition of Twitter, which was later rebranded to X, continues to be a contentious business venture. Twitter executives, including former CEO Parag Agrawal, are also involved in lawsuits against Musk concerning allegations of his failure to pay $128 million in severance.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Document the Struggle to Safeguard Endangered Birds in New Zealand

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Rangers aiming to install stoat traps in the KEA Basin, New Zealand

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

A massive conservation initiative is being undertaken throughout New Zealand to eliminate invasive species, allowing various native and endangered birds to thrive.

Kiwis that live on the ground

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

The nationwide predator eradication initiative, documented by photographer Robin Hammond, boldly aims to exterminate three invasive species introduced by humans: rats, stoats, and possums. These predators have decimated the populations of ground-nesting birds like kiwis. This ambitious plan includes the controversial aerial application of sodium fluoroacetate poison targeting these mammals (as seen in the main image).

Biodiversity Ranger Steven Cox releases a young kiwi

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

“It’s conservation through culling,” states Hammond. “It’s a tough choice, yet inaction leads to significant losses in our bird populations.”

Efforts are also focused on ensuring kiwis and other birds are large enough to withstand mammalian predation (as shown above).

Staff releasing Takahe birds

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

In the wild, kiwi eggs have only a 5% chance of maturing into adults. However, adult birds like the non-flying hawk (as shown above and below) have significantly better survival rates.

Conducting a final health assessment and attaching transmitters to Takahe birds

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

Stuffed Auckland Island merganser (Mergus australis)

Robin Hammond/Panos Photos

Unfortunately, it’s already too late for certain birds, like the Merganser from Auckland Island (illustrated above). After its disappearance in 1902, it has since been confined to museum exhibits. “I’ve witnessed flocks flying around Wellington without even knowing they existed as a child,” states Hammond. “Though, you can now hear their songs, something that was not the case before.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Experts Call for Overhaul of A-levels and GCSEs to Adapt to Generative AI in Education

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Oral assessments, enhanced security protocols, and quicker evaluations are all on the agenda as Generated Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to redefine the future of student examinations.

As the 2025 exam season draws to a close, AI is already making waves following the announcement of GCSE results, with students primarily relying on conventional pen-and-paper methods for their exams.

With a transformation in exam preparation underway, students are increasingly turning to personalized AI tutors that generate study materials tailored to their specific needs, potentially leading to improved results.

“Thanks to AI, students can ask questions outside of class or at unconventional times without fear of judgment, which enhances their understanding.

“This trend really accelerated over the summer,” noted Sandra Leaton Gray, a professor of education futures at the University of London Institute of Education. “Students can discuss the marking criteria, upload their work, and run sample answers through the AI. They can even ask, ‘How can I enhance my answer?’ It’s like having an unending tutor.”

Some experts argue that as AI continues to evolve rapidly, a completely new exam format will be necessary to evaluate how effectively students are utilizing it. Dr. Thomas Lancaster, a computer scientist at Imperial College London specializing in generative AI and academic integrity, remarked, “This type of examination feels inevitable at this point.”

Lancaster cautioned that AI could facilitate new forms of cheating. “We need to enhance security measures in exams and provide more training to help identify banned devices,” he stated.

“Currently, communication devices can be as discreet as hidden earpieces, and AI-enabled smart glasses introduce even more hazards.”

Sir Ian Buckham, the chief regulator of the UK’s qualification authority, highlighted the risks AI poses to using extended writing assessments for evaluating student knowledge.

In a conversation with the Guardian, he expressed concerns about the qualifications associated with the expansion project, noting that students engaged in independent research could combine this with A-levels, which is equivalent to half of an A-level.

“I believe it holds significant importance, and universities have indicated they value it, too,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to take drastic actions, but I am concerned about how extensively AI will support students in this qualification.”

“Anyone advocating for a shift away from comprehensive testing systems that control AI usage will encounter a much more challenging situation.”

Rogoyski echoed these concerns, stating:

“Whether it’s AI or human, the exam format must change to emphasize assessing comprehension of the material. This could involve Vivas or discussions on the examined topics.”

He also cautioned that as students increasingly integrate technology into their daily lives, early indications of AI addiction are surfacing.

On the potential advantages of AI for the testing system, Jill Duffy, chairperson of the Qualifications Committee and CEO of OCR Awards, mentioned that the examination board is exploring ways in which AI could accelerate and enhance the quality of evaluations.

One possibility is that GCSE and A-level results may be delivered within a month instead of two. OCR is currently utilizing AI in its trials to convert handwritten responses into digital text, aiming to minimize delays due to illegible handwriting. If successful, this could mean that students receive university placements based on their qualifications, rather than predicted grades.

Duffy noted that increased use of Vivas and alternative forms of oral assessment are already prevalent in higher education. “If we see this happening there, could it start to be adopted in schools? It’s a possibility,” she said.

Lancaster concluded: “Overall, exams are here to stay in some form, but the nature of those exams may differ significantly from how they currently appear.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

New Online Safety Regulations Put Hundreds of TikTok UK Moderators’ Jobs in Jeopardy

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TikTok is jeopardizing the roles of hundreds of UK content moderators, despite the implementation of stricter regulations aimed at curbing the dissemination of harmful materials online.

The popular video-sharing platform announced that hundreds of positions within its trust and safety teams could be impacted in the UK, as well as South and Southeast Asia, as part of a global reorganization effort.

Their responsibilities have been shifted to other European locations and third-party contractors, with some trust and safety roles still remaining in the UK, the company clarified.

This move aligns with TikTok’s broader strategy to utilize artificial intelligence for content moderation. The company stated that over 85% of materials removed for violating community guidelines have been identified and deleted through automation.

The reduction poses challenges for companies, necessitating age verification checks for users accessing potentially harmful content, even with new UK online safety laws now in effect. Organizations risk fines of up to £18 million or 10% of global revenue for non-compliance.

John Chadfield from the Communication Workers Union expressed concerns that replacing human moderators with AI could endanger the safety of millions of TikTok users.

“TikTok employees have consistently highlighted the real-world implications of minimizing human moderation teams in favor of hastily developed AI solutions,” he remarked.

TikTok, which is owned by the Chinese tech firm ByteDance, has a workforce of over 2,500 in the UK.

In the past year, TikTok has decreased its trust and safety personnel globally, often substituting automated systems for human workers. In September, the company laid off an entire team of 300 content moderators in the Netherlands, and in October, it disclosed plans to replace approximately 500 content moderation staff in Malaysia as part of its shift towards AI.

Recently, TikTok employees in Germany conducted a strike against the layoffs in its trust and safety team.

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Meanwhile, TikTok’s business is thriving. Accounts filed with Companies House reveal that combined operations in the UK and Europe reached $6.3 billion (£4.7 billion) in 2024, representing a 38% increase from the year before. The operating loss decreased from $1.4 billion in 2023 to $485 million.

A TikTok spokesperson stated that the company is “continuing the reorganization initiated last year to enhance its global operational model for reliability and safety.” This involves a focus on fewer global locations to increase efficiency and speed in the evolution of this essential function for technological progress.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Another Quantum Computer Achieves Quantum Advantage — Is It Significant?

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Jiuzhang 4.0 early prototype, a quantum computer that has achieved quantum advantage

Chao-Yang Lu/University of Science and Technology of China

Quantum computers may have achieved a “quantum advantage” by performing tasks beyond the capabilities of the most powerful supercomputers. Experts estimate that replicating the calculations made by classical machines could take an incomprehensible amount of time, equivalent to trillions of times the age of the universe. What implications does this development hold for creating truly functional quantum computers?

The latest record holder in this domain is a quantum computer known as Jiuzhang 4.0, which utilizes particles of light, or photons, to execute computations. Chao-Yang Lu and his team at the University of Science and Technology of China utilized it for Gauss Boson Sampling (GBS). This involves measuring a sample of photons after they navigate a sophisticated arrangement of mirrors and beamsplitters connected to computers.

In earlier attempts to perform this task, the number of utilized photons never exceeded 300. In contrast, Jiuzhang employed 3,090 particles, representing a tenfold improvement in computational strength. Lu and his colleagues estimate that contemporary algorithms on the most powerful supercomputers would require a staggering 1042 years to replicate what Jiuzhang accomplished in just 25.6 microseconds.

“These results are certainly an impressive technical achievement,” said Jonathan Lavoy of the Canadian quantum computing startup Xanadu, which previously held the GBS record with 219 photons. Chris Langer of Quantinuum noted that while their systems have previously demonstrated quantum advantages in various forms of quantum computing, this advancement is significant. “It’s essential to establish that quantum systems cannot be simulated by classical means,” he asserts.

However, Jiuzhang’s previous versions have been used successfully in conducting GBS with a considerable number of photons, but each time a classical computer eventually replicated the results, sometimes within an hour.

Bill Fefferman from the University of Chicago mentions that he is working on a classical algorithm to achieve victory over quantum systems but notes that significant challenges exist for photonic devices. Many photons are lost during the operation of quantum computers, and the systems tend to be noisy. “Currently, we’ve managed to reduce noise while simultaneously ramping up experimentation. However, our algorithm has yet to find a breakthrough,” states Fefferman.

Lu points out that addressing photon loss is the primary hurdle his team faced in the latest experiment. Nevertheless, Jiuzhang remains free of noise, suggesting potential for new classical simulation strategies to take on the title of superiority.

“In my view, they haven’t achieved full power yet, but they are certainly in a position to prove that such classical strategies may not be feasible,” remarks Gelmarenema from the University of Twente, Netherlands.

This presents a “noble cycle” where the competition between classical algorithms and quantum devices enables a better understanding of the blurry lines separating classical and quantum realms, according to Fefferman. From a fundamental science view, this signifies a triumph for all; however, whether quantum computing can be effectively harnessed in more powerful machines remains an open question.

Langer describes GBS as an “entry-level benchmark” that highlights the distinction between quantum and classical computers, but the results do not necessarily indicate the practical utility of such machines. From a rigorous mathematical perspective, evaluating GBS as concrete evidence of quantum advantage is challenging, as Nicolas Quesada at Polytechnic Montreal, Canada, points out. Identifying a clear pathway to developing a superior machine using GBS remains elusive.

This is primarily because Jiuzhang’s hardware is highly specialized, and programming quantum computers for a variety of calculations remains unachieved. “It might demonstrate computational advantages for narrow tasks, but it fundamentally lacks the key components for practical quantum calculations that involve fault tolerance,” explains Lavoy. Fault tolerance refers to a quantum computer’s ability to recognize and correct its own errors—an essential capability that has yet to be realized in contemporary quantum systems.

Meanwhile, Lu and his team advocate for various applications stemming from Jiuzhang’s remarkable capabilities in GBS. This approach could revolutionize computations tied to image recognition, chemistry, and specific mathematical challenges associated with machine learning. Fabio Sciarrino from the University of Sapienza in Rome suggests that though this quantum computing paradigm is still nascent, its realization could lead to groundbreaking changes.

Specifically, advancements like Jiuzhang’s device could pave the way for the creation of extraordinary light-based quantum computers, asserts Sciarrino. These computers would be programmed in entirely innovative manners and excel in machine learning-related tasks.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discount Review: Cozy Shop Life Simulator Offers a Satisfying Experience | Games

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With the rise of retail simulators, the gaming landscape has become quite dense. On the Comet Trail in Stardew Valley, this genre flourishes, featuring protagonists who revive their lives and careers in a semi-rural setting filled with pastoral charm, often taking on blue-collar jobs. Players engage with the locals, influence their lives, and resolve community issues—perhaps even uncovering a mystery or two. They might even find love along the way. Essentially, these characters are pixelated heirs to the legacy of Harvest Moon, yet recent titles from Crinkle Cut Games offer a slightly different take on the cozy shop simulation experience.

In Dissevery, you find yourself taken under the wing of your cunning aunt and joining the franchise’s supermarket brunch initiative. The game’s unique twist focuses on building up local supermarkets rather than community centers, given the quaint absence of roadways in Stardew Valley. Dissiventy weaves a narrative focused on revitalizing the economy of a small town, balancing sharp challenges within a cozy game framework.




Sharp elements…discounts. Photo: Crinkle Cut Game

The aspect of building a supermarket is indeed satisfying. Stock your store, open its doors, and let the customers in. The till system initially functions like a tricky little math puzzle, but it evolves into something more intricate as you progress. Speed becomes crucial—you’ll need to keep customers satisfied, ensure shelves are stocked, floors are tidy, and everything runs efficiently. After a busy day, the store closes, allowing you to breathe, clean up, and retreat to a cozy trailer outside your aunt’s grand home. Aunt Terror is a savvy businesswoman with grand ambitions, and you’ll need to navigate her disputes with the locals, some of whom she dismisses to let you take charge. This unique tone is quite refreshing; it strays from the typical cute aesthetic, focusing instead on supermarket management rather than a whimsical farm life.

The graphics can be somewhat misleading. While the pixel art may initially suggest a sweet and innocent vibe, the town you inhabit is far from pristine. There are dilapidated docks, shuttered shop fronts, and peeling posters on the walls, hinting at a deeper narrative. Even the music complements this atmosphere, providing ambient yet engaging background sounds that enhance the overall experience.

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Consulting with locals involves addressing their concerns, often requiring some tact due to your aunt’s tricky nature. This task carries significant responsibility and demands intense focus. At times, the controls can feel a bit awkward. I found the touchscreen options on the Steam Deck somewhat challenging to navigate, particularly in the early game stages where there aren’t many options and you’re juggling basic tasks. However, the initial resistance isn’t overwhelming. I was impressed by how the challenges gradually become more manageable, emphasizing the rewarding nature of everyday tasks.

Dissiventy serves as a noteworthy addition to the cozy life simulation genre, presenting a hands-on experience filled with ambition. It deviates from typical tropes while maintaining an engaging focus. While romance may not be a primary theme in managing a supermarket, there’s plenty to accomplish, ensuring it still offers an enjoyable gaming experience.

Dissiventy is now available for PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox at £14.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Australian Live Streaming Platform Kick Faces Regulatory Scrutiny After Broadcasting Man’s Death | Technology

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The tragic demise of a man in France, which was live-streamed on the online platform Kick, has prompted a police investigation. Authorities are urging regulators to examine the events of the broadcast and the implications of live streaming on the internet. What is Kick, what transpired, and what are the next steps?

What Happened?

Rafael Graven, 46, from southern France, was known online as Jean Pawmanbe.

This week, he tragically passed away during an extended live stream on the platform. Reports suggest that, prior to his death, he was subjected to physical assaults and humiliation by his associates. A disturbing excerpt from the stream viewed by the Guardian indicates that Graven was struck, humiliated, strangled, and shot with a paintball gun.

His channel has since been removed, and the involved parties are banned pending the investigation by Kick.

One of the collaborators informed local media that Graven had pre-existing cardiovascular issues and claimed, “the scene was just staged and followed a script.”

An autopsy has been ordered, and a police investigation is underway regarding Graven’s death.

What is Kick?

Kick is a live streaming platform akin to Twitch, where users often watch gaming sessions and various live activities.

Founded in Melbourne in 2022 by billionaires Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, Craven previously established Stake.com, the world’s largest cryptocurrency casino. Kick expanded its user base by attracting Twitch streamers who supported Stake before Twitch’s ban on gambling advertisements.

Kick claims that content creators retain 95% of their streaming revenue.

The platform is known for a more lenient approach to content moderation compared to Twitch, although it does have community guidelines prohibiting “content that depicts or incites heinous violence, including serious harm, suffering, and death.”

Additionally, Kick asserts that it will not allow content featuring severe self-harm.

Earlier this year, the company announced new rules permitting gambling streams only from verified sites to protect minors from such content.

Why Wasn’t the Channel Banned?

A spokesperson for Kick did not provide an explanation as to why the Jean Pawmanbe channel remained active before Graven’s death.

“We are urgently reviewing the situation, engaging with relevant stakeholders, and investigating the matter,” the spokesperson stated. “Kick’s Community Guidelines are established to protect creators, and we are committed to maintaining these standards across the platform.”

What Did Kick Say About the Death?

The company expressed its support for the ongoing investigation and shared its grief over Graven’s passing.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jean Pawmanbe and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and community.”

Will Kick Face Any Repercussions?

In France, Clara Chappaz, Deputy Minister of AI and Digital Technology, characterized the incident as “absolutely horrifying,” announcing an ongoing judicial investigation. The matter has been escalated to the French portal for reporting internet content concerns, as well as the digital regulator ARCOM.

Being an Australian company, Kick could also face local scrutiny.

A spokesperson for the Esafety Commissioner referred to the case as “tragic,” emphasizing that it highlights the potentially devastating real-world consequences of extreme content creation.

The spokesperson remarked, “Platforms like Kick must do more to enforce their terms and conditions to minimize harmful content and behavior during streams, ensuring protection for all users.”

Given Kick’s chat features, there may be implications for the Australian government’s planned social media age restrictions for users under 16, starting in December.

Furthermore, new industry codes and standards now require Kick and similar platforms to have systems to shield Australians from inappropriate content, including depictions of crime and violence without justification.

“This encompasses mandates to uphold terms and conditions that prohibit such material and to address user reports swiftly and appropriately,” the spokesperson added. “ESAFETY may seek penalties of up to $49.5 million for compliance violations if warranted.”

Additional codes are under consideration to specifically target children’s exposure to violent content.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Russia Mandates Pre-Installation of State-Backed Messenger Apps on New Phones | Technology

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Starting next month, all phones and tablets purchased in Russia must come with a state-backed messaging app named Max pre-installed. Critics claim it can be used to track users, positioning it as a competitor to WhatsApp.

The initiative to promote Max is tied to Moscow’s effort to exert more internet control amid ongoing conflict with the West, particularly regarding Ukraine. The Kremlin has announced that Max, which will connect with government services, is among the mandated pre-installed applications for all “gadgets,” including phones and tablets sold in Russia since September 1. This week, the company behind Max reported 18 million downloads, although some users are still testing the app.

State media has suggested that critics of the Kremlin label Max as a spy app, but it reportedly has fewer permissions to access user data compared to competitors like WhatsApp and Telegram.


From September 1, Max will also be pre-installed on Apple devices via Rustore, a domestic app store that is included on all Android devices. Additionally, a Russian-language TV app named Lime HD TV will be available for free access to state TV channels, and will be pre-installed on all smart TVs sold in Russia since January 1.

This drive to promote local applications follows Russia’s announcement that it will start limiting calls on WhatsApp, owned by the Meta platform, and Telegram.

WhatsApp, which had approximately 97.3 million users in Russia as of July, accused Moscow of attempting to restrict secure communication access for Russians, while Telegram, with a user base of about 90 million, stated it would actively combat the misuse of its platform.

As per MediaScope data, VK Messenger was the third most popular messaging app in July, boasting 17.9 million users. VK, the state-managed tech company behind Max, also provides VK Messenger.

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The Russian Interior Ministry reported on Wednesday that Max is a safer alternative to its foreign counterparts and has already implicated a suspect in the first fraud case involving this new messaging platform.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Wired and Business Insider Eliminate AI-Generated Articles by Freelancers | US News

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Numerous news outlets have removed articles authored by freelance journalists suspected to be using AI-generated content.

On Thursday, Press Gazette reported that at least six publications, including Wired and Business Insider, have taken down articles from their platforms after it was revealed that pieces written under the name Margaux Blanchard were AI-generated.

Wired published an article in May titled “I fell in love playing Minecraft. The game became a wedding venue.” Shortly after, the article was retracted with an editor’s note stating that “after further review, the Wired editorial team determined that this article did not meet editorial standards.”

According to Press Gazette, which reviewed the WIRED article, “Jessica Hu” is said to be “a Chicago-based commander.” However, both Press Gazette and The Guardian were unable to verify Hu’s identity.


Press Gazette further reported that in April, Business Insider published two essays by Blanchard, one of which discussed the complexities of remote work for parents. After Press Gazette alerted Business Insider about the author’s credibility, the platform deleted the article, displaying a note that read, “This story has been deleted because it did not meet Business Insider standards.”

In a comment to The Guardian, a Business Insider representative stated:

In an article released by Wired, the management acknowledged the oversight, saying, “If anyone can catch an AI con artist, it’s Wired. Unfortunately, we’ve encountered this issue.”

Wired further explained that one of its editors received a pitch about the “rise of niche internet weddings” that had “all the signs of a great Wired story.”

After initial discussions on framing and payment, the editors assigned the story, which was published on May 7.

However, it soon became evident that the writers were unable to provide enough details needed for payment processing. The outlet noted that the writer insisted on payment via PayPal or check.

Subsequent investigations revealed the story was fabricated.

In the Thursday article, Wired noted, “I made an error here. This story did not undergo a proper fact-checking procedure or receive top editing from a senior editor. I acted promptly upon discovering the issue to prevent future occurrences.”

Press Gazette reported that Jacob Philady, editor of a new magazine named Dispatch, was the first to warn of fraudulent activity related to Blanchard’s article. He mentioned earlier this month that he received a pitch from Blanchard, claiming “Gravemont, a decommissioned mining town in Colorado, has been repurposed as one of the world’s most secretive training grounds for death investigations.”

In the pitch shared with Press Gazette, Blanchard stated, “I want to tell the story of a scientist, a former cop, and a former miner who now deal with the deceased daily. I explore ethical dilemmas using real individuals in staged environments, not as mourners but as true archivists.”

She asserted, “I’m the right person for this because I’ve previously reported on concealed training sites, have contacts in forensic circles, and know how to navigate sensitive, closed communities with empathy and discretion.”

Philady informed Press Gazette that the pitch sounded AI-generated, and he could not find any information about Gravemont. The Guardian was also unable to confirm the details regarding the dubious town.

When questioned about how she learned of the town, Blanchard replied, “I’m not surprised you couldn’t find much. Gravemont doesn’t promote itself. I initially interviewed someone irrelevant to a retired forensic pathologist.”

She continued, “Over the following months, I further pieced the story together by requesting public records, speaking with former trainees, and sifting through forensic association meeting materials, none of which were mentioned in print.

“This is a location that exists in the collective memory of the industry, but remains under the radar enough to avoid extensive coverage, which is precisely why I believe it resonates with interested readers,” Blanchard added.

Philady told Press Gazette that despite the pitch seeming “very convincing,” he suspected she was “bulk.” He requested Blanchard to provide her standard rates and how long she would be in the field.

In response, Blanchard ignored Philady’s request for public records, indicating instead that she would “ideally spend five to seven days on location” and would require around $670 for payment.

Last Friday, Philady confronted Blanchard via email, stating he would publish a false story if she did not respond. Press Gazette further revealed that Blanchard did not reply to his request for evidence of her identity.

This instance of false AI-generated articles follows an earlier incident in May when the Chicago Sun-Times ran a section containing a fake reading list produced by AI.

Marcob Scalia, a journalist for King Features Syndicate, relied on AI to create the list, expressing, “It was silly; 100% my fault. I merely republished this list generated by an AI program… usually, I ensure that everything is sourced and vetted appropriately. I definitely fell short of that task.”

Meanwhile, in June, the Utah Court of Appeals sanctioned an attorney after it was found that they had used ChatGPT to cite a non-existent trial.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Twenty Years Later, I’m Still Emotional: The Timeless Brilliance of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater | Games

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It’s unforgettable—the first time you play a Metal Gear game. Among them, Konami’s iconic stealth series is epitomized by the 2004 installment, Snake Eater. This initial chapter and its sequel acted as a reboot. Initially aimed for the PS3 due to its ambitious technology, it was eventually released on the PS2. The writer-director, Kojima, sought to take the gravelly-voiced protagonist, Solid Snake, out of the shadowy military bases and into the great outdoors. With elements like food hunting and broken bones that could be reset, Snake Eater felt far more grounded and immersive compared to PlayStation games of the 2000s.

Despite Snake Eater’s significant transformations, one classic aspect remains unchanged—stellar voice acting. In Konami’s upcoming remake, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, all the iconic, absurd lines from the original script are preserved. Enhanced with modern controls and stunning new graphics, Delta more closely resembles a 4K restoration of a beloved film than a standard remake akin to the latest Resident Evil titles.

“To their credit, Konami wanted to maintain the authentic experience,” says David Hater, the voice of Solid Snake. “They aimed to ensure it felt like the original, while still leveraging today’s technology.”




“Very cinematic”… Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami

Hater, who also penned the scripts for the 2000s X-Men films, takes immense pride in his portrayal of Solid Snake, a role achieved through the unique recording process of his eccentric performances. “For my first Metal Gear Solid, I recorded in an unusual house in Hollywood,” he reflects. “There were five microphones set up and it was just me and the other actors.”

This atypical setup was in stark contrast to the usual individual recording method, where voice actors would record separately, and their performances would be pieced together afterward. Hater found this collaborative approach to be incredibly effective. “I insisted my contract required me to record in this manner for all the Metal Gear games; I’d be in the booth alongside other top voice talents for months at a time.”

By the time the actors recorded their roles for Metal Gear Solid, the storyline was nearly finalized. However, for Snake Eater, they received only cues, leaving much of the visual imagination to the voice talent. “We had no visuals,” says Hater. “It was challenging to grasp the full impact of what we were creating at the time.”




“I know why you go back to it over and over again”… Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami

This shared experience resonates with Lori Alan, who voices The Boss, a key character in Snake Eater. “This is where the voice director showcased his remarkable skills,” Alan shares. “The recording sessions were intense. After a session, you’d exit saying, ‘What a ride!’ as the director would quietly remind you, ‘You love him. You trained him. You’ll betray your country!’ It was astonishing, and left you feeling completely drained.”

As Alan departed the booth while Hater was recording, she didn’t fully grasp the impact of the character she embodied. “I have a devoted fan who once sent me a clip, but I’ve never played it,” Alan admits. Over two decades later, she finally experienced the iconic role she helped create. “We were filming promotional videos for the remake,” Hater recalls. “Lori mentioned she wanted to know what we did back then, but it was hard to convey! So, I sent her the complete cutscene from the game… A couple of hours later, I received an emotional call from her. She was in tears, saying, ‘Oh my god! I didn’t understand before, but now I get it.'”

“It’s incredibly cinematic,” Alan adds. “The depth of the relationships stands out, giving me chills. I found myself completely engaged in the storytelling, as one would when reading a captivating novel or watching a compelling film.”




“We didn’t need to change anything great from the original”… Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. Photo: Konami

Beyond some audio refinement and adjustments to fit the new control system, the cast confirms that no additional material was introduced in Delta. “I like to think I’ve become a better actor since then,” Hater muses. “Yet, these recordings had to align perfectly with the original, making it surreal to step back into the booth and reprise the same role after 20 years.”

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Hater and Alan aren’t alone in revisiting the jungle—Cynthia Harrell, the original singer of Snake Eater’s theme, has re-recorded the iconic anthem for the remake. Harrell noted that she recorded her vocals with little direction. “That final scene, with the song playing as she dies, the red petals falling… I still cry 20 years later.”

Decades later, that moment remains powerful. Following an emotional climax, players are given the choice to pull the trigger. “I wished there was an option to shoot her in the leg instead,” Hater admits.

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The ongoing separation between Kojima and Konami means that the original Snake Eater director isn’t involved in Delta, yet the publisher has engaged and retained members from the original development team. “For me, that thrill and surprise felt like the first time I played, 21 years ago, and that’s the experience we aimed to replicate,” shares Yuji Korekado, a producer on Delta and a former team member. Fellow producer Okamura Noriaki emphasized the intention to maintain creative integrity: “We concluded that adding twists or new plot elements was unnecessary; the original was already exceptional.”

As a new generation grows up unaware of the significance of Revolver Ocelot, Hater views Snake Eater Delta as the ideal reintroduction to one of gaming’s most revered franchises. “Someone asked me last night why they started remastering with No. 3,” he mentions. “That’s because it’s the best, you know? The characters are incredible, and the storylines are profound. These are some of the most tragic and beautiful moments in gaming history. It’s akin to living through a cinematic masterpiece for 60 hours.”
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Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will launch on PC, PS5, and Xbox on August 28th

Source: www.theguardian.com

Untangling the Chaos: Analyzing the U.S. Climate Disaster Defense Strategy

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The National Weather Service is gearing up to deliver compromised forecasts. Scientists are advised to suspend all but essential travel, while university-based researchers report that a multi-million dollar federal grant for climate modeling has been abruptly withdrawn.

This represents a new standard within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the US’s primary weather and climate agency, as indicated by interviews with current and past personnel, along with research collaborators.

Six months into the new US administration, the ramifications of significant political shifts are becoming apparent. Although official budget discussions are ongoing, a quiet dismantling is already in progress. Employees warn this jeopardizes the agency’s capacity to safeguard the public against climate-related threats such as floods, wildfires, and hurricanes.

The repercussions extend beyond US borders. NOAA’s research and data underpin the initiatives of global organizations like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the World Weather Organization.

If the US steps back, other nations might need to fill that void, risking missed early warnings for imminent disasters. In fact, EU countries and academic institutions are already racing to recruit former NOAA staff in hopes of bridging the gap.

“It’s nothing but confusion and uncertainty,” said a current NOAA scientist with over 15 years of experience, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “Planning anything is incredibly challenging due to persistent unpredictability.”

Service Reductions and Research Loss

Earlier this year, the National Weather Service (NWS), a division of NOAA, entered into an agreement that led to a reduction of services at 122 weather offices nationwide, stemming from a significant staffing shortage after a wave of early retirements and layoffs.

Currently, public forecasts remain available. However, as wildfire and hurricane seasons peak, vulnerabilities in the system could quickly surface.

The NWS is permitted to hire meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar engineers to fill 450 critical vacancies, but former staff members caution that it might already be too late.

“Public safety is undeniably at risk due to a hastily executed process led by individuals who are overwhelmed by this new role in the NWS,” said meteorologist Alan Gerald, who spent 35 years with NOAA before accepting an early retirement package this year.

While recruitment and training could take months, the departure of senior personnel means lost institutional knowledge could be permanent, Gerald noted.

Even if staffing shortages are ultimately addressed, current personnel are warned that the repercussions may impact long-term preparedness. “What is sacrificed is the research aspect and our ability to continue advancing our modeling and prediction expertise,” stated NOAA scientists.

NOAA’s National Hurricane Centre provides crucial forecasts for tracking the paths of powerful storms, such as the devastating Hurricane Beryl in 2024. – Photo credit: Getty

External partners are already experiencing the consequences. A researcher associated with NOAA shared with BBC Science Focus that a multi-million dollar next-generation weather modeling initiative is now in jeopardy after losing federal backing.

“We’re already not perfect in our work,” the researcher remarked. “And with the climate changing, leading to more extreme events, if we don’t evolve accordingly, lives will be lost, property damage will escalate, and we risk missing critical storm warnings.”

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“Avoid the term climate.”

Internally, scientists have been instructed to halt all non-essential travel, including attending conferences, which are vital for collaboration across scientific disciplines. This policy was reportedly communicated verbally without formal documentation.

Several sources noted that oral directives have become the norm, often lacking written records.

Scientists added that there is growing reluctance to mention the term “climate.”

“While I’ve never been directly told, ‘Don’t publish this’ or ‘Don’t address climate,’ it’s implicit. For example, external funding guidelines suggest we approach topics differently,” explained a NOAA scientist. “So when working with external colleagues, we often hear ‘don’t mention climate and let’s frame this differently.’

This self-censorship is part of a broader crackdown on climate-related initiatives.

In April, the Commerce Department withdrew nearly $4 million in NOAA funding from Princeton University, effectively terminating three significant collaborative agreements aimed at predicting coastal flooding, sea-level rise, droughts, fires, and floods.

In a general statement, the department criticized one of the Princeton awards for promoting “unfounded and inflated climate threats” and creating “climate anxiety.” Another was deemed no longer aligned with the Trump administration’s priorities, justifying that it suggested significant fluctuations in water availability due to global warming.

The statement proceeded to describe changes in precipitation patterns and rising sea levels as “suspected” effects.

Protesters gathered at a rally outside NOAA Headquarters to protest recent staff reductions on March 3, 2025 – Credit: Getty

In May, NOAA’s Grant Management Department terminated the Northwest Climate Resilience Collaborative (NCRC), a University of Washington initiative that assisted rural communities and tribes in adapting to flooding and intensified heat.

Reports indicate that grants are being cut to “rationalize and reduce federal expenditures and size” since they no longer align with “program goals or agency priorities.”

Separately, the White House also slashed funds associated with the Sixth National Climate Assessment (NCA), despite legal mandates to prepare a comprehensive climate report every four years. Originally scheduled for release in 2028, its future now hangs in uncertainty.

“Part of this is a tactic to downplay the significance of the work being done,” remarked a NOAA scientist.

“For instance, we now refer to what we consider ‘climate’ as something broader than weather patterns. While we traditionally described forecasts as ‘climate,’ we’ve stopped using that term to avoid attracting attention to it.”

Erosion of Knowledge

Since the new administration took office, NOAA has lost around a fifth of its workforce, with over 1,000 employees, many holding senior leadership positions, opting for early retirement or buyouts this year.

“When experienced staff leave due to exhaustion, that’s one thing,” Gerald remarked. “But losing a significant portion of seasoned personnel is a different issue entirely.”

Morale has plummeted. Employees report that independent programs are being restructured or eliminated with little notice or explanation, and even if funding is restored, considerable damage may already be irreversible.

“We’re talking about a research infrastructure cultivated over 50 or 60 years,” Gerald stated. “That could essentially collapse within a year.”

Carl Gouldman, who recently led the US Integrated Ocean Observing Systems office within NOAA, echoes these concerns.

“The relationships and partnerships necessary for innovation and creating essential features are at substantial risk and may never recover,” he warned. “Humpty Dumpty is shattered, and you can’t reassemble him.”

Negotiations for NOAA’s 2026 budget are still proceeding. The White House’s proposal suggests a 40% cut in institutional funding. Alternate proposals from the House and Senate are more generous, but a compromise could still be months away.

However, Gerald is particularly worried about the interim actions of the administration. He recently referred to a public statement from Russ Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, who indicated that the administration “is not aligned with the legislative department’s understanding of its own authorities and responsibilities.”

“We still have a chance to reevaluate this and consider its implications,” Gerald said. “With climate change and the expanding human footprint—more people causing harm for various reasons—the demand for warnings and predictions is only escalating.”

NOAA has not responded to requests for comment.

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About Our Experts

Alan Gerald is a meteorologist with over 35 years of experience in issuing warnings and forecasts, focusing on reducing the social impacts of hazardous weather, water, and climate events. He has served for more than 20 years in senior leadership roles at NOAA and most recently was the director of analysis and understanding for the National Intense Storm Institute until March 2025.

Karl Golman is a recently retired director of NOAA’s US Integrated Ocean Observing Systems office, with 25 years of leadership experience in the agency. During his tenure at NOAA, he oversaw annual budgets ranging from $5 billion to $200 million.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Astronomers Investigate Methods to Enhance Searches for Alien Technosignatures

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A recent study indicates that a group of astronomers in Pennsylvania, along with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, can determine when and where human deep space transmissions are most likely to be detected by extraterrestrial observers beyond our solar system. They can use observed patterns to inform searches for alien intelligence.

Analysis conducted on deep spacenetwork uplink transmission logs over the last two decades et al. It was found that these emissions mainly targeted the Sun or various planets. Image credit: Gemini AI.

“Humans primarily communicate with probes sent to explore spacecraft and other planets like Mars,” stated Pinken Hwang, a graduate student in Pennsylvania.

“Nevertheless, planets such as Mars do not obstruct entire transmissions, enabling spacecraft or celestial bodies along these interplanetary communication pathways to potentially detect signals.

“This implies that when searching for extraterrestrial communications, we need to consider planets outside our solar system that might align with our signals.”

“SETI researchers frequently scan the universe for indicators of past or current technology, referred to as Technosignatures, as potential signs of intelligent life.”

“By analyzing the direction and frequency of our most prevalent signals, we shed light on where we should enhance our chances of discovering alien technical stations.”

In this research, scientists scrutinized logs from NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN), a global facility that enables two-way radio communication with human-made objects in space, serving as a relay to send commands and receive data from spacecraft.

They meticulously aligned the DSN logs with spacecraft location data to pinpoint the timing and direction of radio communications emanating from Earth.

Even though some countries have their own deep space networks, researchers argue that the NASA-operated DSN effectively represents the types of communications coming from Earth, as NASA has spearheaded the most profound space missions to date.

“The DSN establishes crucial connections between Earth and interplanetary missions, such as the NASA New Horizons spacecraft and the NASA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.”

“It emits some of humanity’s most powerful and sustained radio signals into space, and the public logs of these transmissions have enabled our team to identify temporal and spatial patterns over the past 20 years.”

This study concentrated on transmissions directed into deep space, such as signals sent to interplanetary spacecraft, rather than those intended for low-Earth orbit satellites.

The researchers found that deep-space radio signals primarily targeted spacecraft close to Mars.

Other frequent transmissions were directed at telescopes situated at the Lagrange points near Earth and various planets. These points are areas where the gravitational forces of the Sun and Earth keep the telescope in a relatively fixed position from the perspective of Earth.

“Based on data from the last 20 years, we found that if extraterrestrial intelligence exists where we can observe the alignment of Earth and Mars, there is a 77% chance it falls within our transmission path.

“Furthermore, if they can see consistency with another planet in a solar system, there is a 12% chance they are on that transmission path.”

“However, these opportunities are quite substantial if planetary alignment is not observed.”

The team emphasized the need for humans to search for interplanetary alignments to enhance their quest for Technosignatures.

Astronomers routinely examine exoplanets during alignments with their host stars. In fact, the majority of known exoplanets were discovered by observing a star dimming as a planet passes in front of it.

“We only recently started detecting a significant number of exoplanets in the last 10 to 20 years, so we still lack knowledge about many systems that include more than two transiting exoplanets,” Fan noted.

“With the imminent launch of NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, we anticipate the detection of 100,000 previously unknown exoplanets, which should significantly expand our search area.”

Our solar system is relatively flat, with most planets orbiting in the same plane, consequently, most DSN transmissions occurred within 5 degrees of Earth’s orbital plane.

If the solar system were metaphorically likened to a dinner plate with planets and objects lying on its surface, human transmissions would predominantly travel along the surface instead of leaping out into space at steep angles.

The authors also calculated that average DSN transmissions can be detected approximately 23 light-years away using telescopes similar to ours.

“Focusing on solar systems within 23 light-years, particularly those aligned in the plane towards Earth, could enhance our search for extraterrestrial intelligence,” they concluded.

The team is currently strategizing on identifying these systems and estimating how often they receive signals from Earth.

“Humanity is still in the early stages of our space exploration journey, and as we extend our missions into the solar system, transmissions to other planets will only increase,” remarked Professor Jason Wright of Penn.

“We have quantified ways to improve future searches for extraterrestrial intelligence by using our deep space communications as a benchmark to target systems with specific orientations and planetary alignments.”

The team’s paper was published online today in the Astrophysics Journal Letters.

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Ping Chen Fan et al. 2025. Detection of extraterrestrial civilizations employing a global-level deep space network. apjl 990, L1; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/adf6b0

Source: www.sci.news

Research Suggests Future Ozone Changes May Lead to Unexpected Global Warming

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The prohibition of ozone-depleting substances like CFCs has facilitated the recovery of the ozone layer. However, when paired with rising air pollution levels, the heating effects of ozone are now expected to warm the planet by an additional 40% more than previously estimated.

Antarctica’s ozone hole in 2020. Image credit: ESA.

“CFCs and HCFCs are greenhouse gases contributing to global warming,” stated Professor Bill Collins of Reading University and his colleagues.

“Countries have banned these substances to protect the ozone layer, with hopes it will also mitigate climate change.”

“However, as the ozone layer continues to heal, the resulting warming could offset much of the climate benefits we expect from eliminating CFCs and HCFCs.”

“Efforts to reduce air pollution will limit ground-level ozone.”

“Still, the ozone layer will take decades to fully recover, irrespective of air quality policies, leading to unavoidable warming.”

“Safeguarding the ozone layer is vital for human health and skin cancer prevention.”

“It shields the Earth from harmful UV radiation that can affect humans, animals, and plants.”

“Yet, this study indicates that climate policies must be revised to consider the enhanced warming effects of ozone.”

The researchers utilized computer models to project atmospheric changes by the mid-century.

The models continued under a scenario of low pollution, where CFCs and HCFCs have been eliminated as per the Montreal Protocol (1987).

The results indicate that stopping the production of CFCs and HCFCs—primarily to defend the ozone layer—offers fewer climate advantages than previously thought.

Between 2015 and 2050, ozone is predicted to cause an excess warming of 0.27 watts per square meter (WM-2).

This value denotes the additional energy trapped per square meter of the Earth’s surface—carbon dioxide (which contributes 1.75 WM-2) will rank as the second-largest influence on future warming by 2050.

“Countries are making the right choice by continuing to ban CFCs and HCFCs that endanger the ozone layer globally,” stated Professor Collins.

“While this contributes to the restoration of the ozone layer, we’ve discovered that this recovery results in greater planetary warming than initially anticipated.”

“Ground-level ozone generated from vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and power plants also poses health risks and exacerbates global warming.”

The results were published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics.

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WJ Collins et al. 2025. Climate forcing due to future ozone changes: Intercomparison of metrics and methods. Atmos. Chemistry. Phys 25, 9031-9060; doi: 10.5194/ACP-25-9031-2025

Source: www.sci.news

Denisovan DNA Might Have Aided Ancient Survival in the Americas

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Thousands of years ago, ancient Homo sapiens embarked on a perilous journey, traversing the icy expanses of the Bering Straits into the uncharted territories of the Americas. Recent research indicates that these migrants may have brought with them an extraordinary gift – MUC19 genes inherited from Denisovans, which could have played a pivotal role in helping humans adapt to the challenges of their new environments.

The concept of artist Peng Denisovan walking under the bright sun during the Pleistocene of Taiwan. Image credit: Cheng-Han Sun.

The modern human genome harbors a few archaic variants that are the remnants of past interbreeding events with Neanderthals and Denisovans.

While many of these variants are neutral, certain archaic mutations found in modern humans are believed to be targets of positive natural selection, possibly essential for human adaptation as they expanded into new lands.

The populations in the Americas encountered diverse environments, creating numerous opportunities for natural selection to favor archaic variations in these new settings.

This new research, spearheaded by a team from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and Brown University, focused on a gene known as MUC19, which aids in the production of proteins that form saliva and mucosal barriers in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

The researchers found that a Denisovan variant of MUC19 exists in the DNA of modern Latin Americans with Indigenous American ancestry, as well as in individuals excavated from archaeological sites across North and South America.

The prevalence of this gene in modern human populations suggests it was under significant natural selection, indicating that it conferred survival or reproductive advantages to those who carried it.

Although the specific benefits remain unclear, given the gene’s involvement in immune processes, it may have provided an enhanced defense against pathogens encountered by early settlers in the Americas.

“From an evolutionary perspective, this discovery illustrates how ancient interbreeding can produce effects that persist today,” stated Professor Emilia Fuerta Sanchez of Brown University.

“Biologically, it identifies genes that seem to be adaptable, though their precise functions are yet to be elucidated.”

“We hope this will spur further research into the actual roles of this gene.”

Limited information exists about Denisovans, who inhabited Asia between 300,000 and 30,000 years ago, with our knowledge primarily derived from small fossils found in Denisova Cave, two jawbones discovered in Tibet and Taiwan, and an almost complete skull unearthed in China this year.

Fossils from Siberian fingers contained ancient DNA, facilitating the search for genetic similarities between Denisovans and modern humans.

Previous studies have indicated that the Denisovan-derived gene EPAS1 may have contributed to the remarkable adaptations of Sherpas and other Tibetans.

In the current study, researchers compared Denisovan DNA with the most recent genomes obtained from the 1,000 Genomes Project, a global study on genetic variations.

They found that Denisovan-derived MUC19 variants are prevalent among Latino populations with Indigenous American ancestry.

The researchers also investigated DNA from 23 individuals excavated from archaeological sites in Alaska, California, Mexico, and other parts of the Americas, finding that Denisovan-derived variants were also common in these ancient peoples.

The authors conducted several independent statistical tests demonstrating that Denisovan MUC19 genetic mutations have reached unusually high frequencies in both ancient indigenous populations and present-day indigenous peoples, indicating genes that are situated on long stretches of archaic DNA.

They also revealed that the gene likely crossed over from Denisovans to another archaic population.

“These findings reveal that past interbreeding has introduced new and potentially advantageous genetic variations into human lineages,” Professor Fuerta Sanchez remarked.

“New genetic variations typically arise through slow evolutionary processes.”

“However, these interbreeding events were a sudden means of introducing a plethora of new variations.”

“In this instance, the novel genetic reservoir seems to have aided modern humans migrating to the Americas and may have bolstered their immune systems.”

“Clearly, this gene was advantageous for these populations.”

“We hope that recognizing the significance of these genes will inspire new investigations into their functions to uncover fresh biological mechanisms, particularly relating to coding genetic variants that modify protein sequences.”

Study published in the journal Science.

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Fernando A. Villania et al. 2025 MUC19 Genes: The evolutionary history of recurrent variants and natural selection. Science 389 (6762); doi:10.1126/science.adl0882

Source: www.sci.news

How Your Car’s Color Affects Urban Heat Levels

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A light-coloured car could lead to cooler streets

Olena Polkovnykova/Alamy

The color of a vehicle significantly influences the surrounding temperature. Darker cars tend to absorb and emit more heat than brighter ones, especially when parked on the street or in a parking lot. The cumulative effects of countless vehicles in urban areas can substantially intensify the urban heat island effect, exacerbating heat stress for pedestrians on sunny days.

“Have you ever noticed how you feel the heat radiating when passing a parked car on a hot day?” asks Marcia Mattias from the University of Lisbon, Portugal. “It’s not just your imagination!”

Mattias and her team monitored two parked cars (one black and one white) for over five hours under direct sunlight. Their findings revealed that the black car increased local temperatures by up to 3.8°C compared to the surrounding asphalt, which was already at 36°C on a clear summer day. In contrast, the white car had a considerably lesser impact on its environment.

This variation in temperature is primarily due to the reflective properties of vehicle paint; white paint reflects 75-85% of sunlight, whereas black paint reflects only 5-10%, absorbing the majority of incoming light. The thin metal and aluminum bodies of cars heat up rapidly in strong sunlight, unlike dark asphalt, which warms at a much slower rate. “With thousands of cars occupying city spaces, each acts like a small heat source or shield,” Mattias notes. “Their colors can genuinely transform the thermal dynamics of our streets.”

Research indicates that repainting vehicles from dark to light colors can create cooler surfaces on sunny, low-wind days and lower nearby air temperatures. For instance, in the case of Lisbon, performing this change could significantly enhance the sun’s reflection off road surfaces where parked cars occupy over 10% of the area.

Alicia Burke from the University of North Carolina remarked that “utilizing light-colored vehicles as a strategy to mitigate urban heat is particularly innovative.” Previous studies have mainly focused on improving the reflectivity of roofs and pavements.

Government vehicle fleets, taxis, delivery vans, and similar transportation groups are prime candidates for color transformation, according to Mattias.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Maximize Metal Resources for Clean Energy Without New Mining Operations

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Open-pit mining at the Kennecott Copper Mine, also referred to as the Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah

Witold Skrypczak/Alamy

The leftover ore discarded by the rice mines is rich in vital minerals. This resource is sufficient to furnish all the necessary components for clean energy technologies. By reclaiming a portion of these minerals, we can satisfy the country’s rising demand for green energy without relying on imports or creating new environmentally-friendly mines, although the process of extraction poses its own challenges.

“We must enhance our utilization of mining resources,” states Elizabeth Holly from the Colorado School of Mines.

Traditionally, most individual mines concentrate on extracting a limited range of minerals, such as copper and gold. This involves excavating and grinding the ore, followed by separating the primary product through various metallurgical processes. Ultimately, the residue is discarded as tailings. “It’s pointless to mine if we’re not utilizing all the resources,” says Holly.

These byproducts often contain additional valuable materials, including many crucial minerals identified by the US government as essential for military and energy technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. However, certain supply chains for these minerals are controlled by China, raising urgent concerns for the US and its allies, prompting a search for alternative mineral sources, including mining byproducts and tailings.

Yet, many mining operations lack a clear understanding of what they are discarding. “Numerous minerals that are now deemed critical were seldom employed in the past, so they weren’t analyzed for recovery,” remarks Holly.


Holly and her colleagues examined thousands of ore samples and production data from mines across the US. They utilized this information to project the quantity of additional minerals that could be retrieved from 54 active hard rock metal mines should new purification steps be implemented.

In some cases, it was found that only 1% of the minerals contained in mining byproducts were recoverable. Other minerals necessitated recovery rates in the 10-90% range to replace imports. Additionally, certain metals, such as gold, platinum, and palladium, still require imports, even though 100% recovery is achievable from byproducts.

These findings imply that the US could fulfill the growing demand for critical minerals without the need for new mines, according to Holly. This strategy would help secure a stable supply chain and mitigate the environmental impacts of mining. “It makes more sense to optimize what we’re already mining,” she asserts.

According to Brian McNulty from the University of British Columbia in Canada, this presents “a significant opportunity,” although further research is required to transform estimates of mineral amounts into actual recoverable quantities. “We hope to not only engage government but also industry, encouraging a more thorough assessment of our mining practices,” he comments.

Identifying the whereabouts of these minerals isn’t the only challenge. Current purification technologies do not cater well to these small, complicated waste streams, and deploying the necessary technology is prohibitively expensive for many US mines. Megan O’Connor, from NTH Cycle, which specializes in extracting vital minerals from unconventional sources, highlights this issue.

Mines may also hesitate to invest in new mineral extraction methods when future demand remains uncertain. Whether concerning electric vehicle batteries or solar panels, “technological advancements occur significantly faster than changes in mining practices,” notes McNulty.

Despite skepticism regarding renewable energy, the Trump administration prioritized US mineral production as a key aspect of its agenda. Recently, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced nearly $1 billion in funding for unconventional mining initiatives, including $250 million aimed at mineral recovery from mining byproducts.

A spokesperson from the DOE asserts that the tailings at these mines represent “a significant opportunity within the nation” and could assist the United States in diversifying its sources of critical minerals and materials.

Nonetheless, this does not diminish support for new mines, as stated by the agency’s executive director, P. Wells Griffith III, during a DOE strategy workshop on August 20th. “We should never apologize for modern lifestyles and our abundant natural resources,” he affirmed.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Supreme Court Approves Reductions to NIH Grants Challenging Trump’s DEI Policy

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WASHINGTON – On Thursday, the Supreme Court extended the Trump administration’s substantial reductions to the National Health Grants, part of the federal government’s initiative on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.

However, in this intricate ruling, the court upheld another aspect of a lower court’s decision that discarded the administration’s guidance documents related to the policy, raising doubts about its viability going forward.

An emergency request by an administrator aiming to pause the Massachusetts federal judge’s ruling was partially granted, resulting in a 5-4 vote.

While the court did not extensively elaborate on its reasoning, the majority suggested that groups contesting the funding cuts would need to initiate a new lawsuit in a different federal court, specifically the Federal Court of Claims.

The decisive vote came from conservative Judge Amy Coney Barrett. All four conservative justices supported the Trump administration’s application, indicating that the other four justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and three liberal justices, would have completely denied it.

Barrett stated in a concurring opinion, “As today’s order indicates, district courts likely lack jurisdiction to address the funding challenges that pertain to the federal claims court.” She added, “The government is not entitled to a stay of judgment as long as it possesses valid guidance documents.”

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a collection of agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services, receiving billions of dollars from Congress for medical research funding at universities, hospitals, and various institutions.

When President Donald Trump assumed office in January, he asserted that what is termed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) constituted discrimination mainly against white individuals, rather than fostering equality as intended. He also championed policies recognizing transgender rights, including access to gender transition care.

Subsequently, the NIH conducted a review of grants and concluded that over 1,700 were inconsistent with Trump’s directives, resulting in their termination, which included programs related to teenage HIV prevention and gender identity studies.

Massachusetts, along with 16 states represented by the American Public Health Association, has contested this action.

After the trial, District Judge William Young of Massachusetts ruled that the government had not adhered to the proper legal protocols while enacting the policy, violating the Administrative Procedure Act.

In haste to execute Trump’s agenda, the NIH “failed to comply with legal requirements,” Young noted.

He characterized DEI as an “undefined enemy,” stating that government attorneys could not adequately clarify its meaning.

Young found evidence of “prevailing racism” and “widespread discrimination” against gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals in how grants were awarded. Furthermore, he identified “a distinct pattern of discrimination against women’s health issues.”

He declined to stay his ruling, a decision mirrored by the Boston-based First Circuit Court of Appeals.

Attorney General John Sauer requested the Supreme Court to intervene on behalf of the Trump administration, likening the situation to another incident in Massachusetts where the Trump administration obstructed plans to eliminate teacher training grants based on anti-DEI grounds.

The Supreme Court had blocked this earlier ruling in April with a 5-4 vote.

Sauer asserted, “This application presents a particularly clear case where this court must intervene to prevent the district court from disregarding this court’s previous decision.”

The state’s attorney countered Sauer’s assertion, stating it “bears little resemblance to reality.”

The judge deliberated Thursday on whether the April ruling impacted the latest case’s outcome.

In a brief opinion, Roberts, who had contested the previous case, asserted that Young’s findings fell within the permissible scope of district court jurisdiction.

However, conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch criticized Young in a separate opinion for failing to comply with the April ruling.

“While lower court judges may oppose this court’s ruling, they are never free to disregard it,” he wrote.

The Trump administration frequently relied on the Supreme Court when facing judicial challenges to its enforcement actions, generally securing favorable outcomes. Trump and his supporters have also aggressively criticized judges who opposed him.

Source: www.nbcnews.com