Weather Update from Titan, Saturn’s Moon: Partly Cloudy with Intermittent Methane Rain

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

With data from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope and the Keck II telescope, astronomers have found signs of cloud convection in Titan’s northern hemisphere. The majority of Titan’s lakes and oceans are situated in this region, replenished by sporadic rains of methane and ethane. Webb has also identified essential carbon-containing molecules that offer insight into Titan’s intricate atmospheric chemical processes.

These Titan images taken by Webb on July 11, 2023 show the Keck II telescope on July 14, 2023 (lower row), showing methane clouds (white arrows) appearing at various altitudes in Titan’s northern hemisphere. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/KECK Observatory.

Titan is a fascinating world enveloped in a yellowish smog haze. Its atmosphere, primarily composed of nitrogen, experiences weather patterns similar to those on Earth, such as clouds and rain.

In contrast to Earth, where weather is influenced by the evaporation and condensation of water, Titan’s chilly environment features a methane cycle.

Methane evaporates from the surface, rising into the atmosphere to condense into clouds.

Occasionally, icy particles fall to solid surfaces as a form of cold, oily rain.

“The Goddard Space Flight Center involves astronomers,” stated Dr. Connn Nixon, an astronomer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

Utilizing both Webb and Keck II telescopes, Dr. Nixon and his team observed Titan in November 2022 and July 2023.

These observations revealed cloud formations in the northern and high northern latitudes of Titan, coinciding with its current summer, and indicated that these clouds were gradually rising to higher altitudes.

Previous research identified cloud convection in southern latitudes, marking the first evidence of similar convection in the northern hemisphere.

This finding is crucial, as most of Titan’s lakes and oceans are located in the northern hemisphere, making evaporation from these bodies of water a primary source for methane.

On Earth, the troposphere, the lowest atmospheric layer, extends to about 12 km in altitude.

However, due to Titan’s low gravity, its troposphere stretches to approximately 45 km.

By utilizing various infrared filters, Webb and Keck explored different atmospheric depths on Titan, enabling astronomers to estimate cloud altitudes.

Researchers noted that clouds seemed to migrate to higher altitudes over a few days, although direct observation of precipitation remains elusive.

“Webb’s observation occurred at the end of Titan’s summer, a season we couldn’t monitor during the NASA/ESA Cassini-Huygens mission,” remarked ESA researcher Dr. Thomas Cornet.

“Combined with ground-based observations, Webb is providing us with valuable new insights into Titan’s atmosphere. This ESA mission could explore the Saturn system in greater detail in the future.”

Titan is of significant astrobiological interest due to its intricate organic (carbon-containing) chemistry, despite its frigid temperatures of minus 180 degrees Celsius.

Organic molecules are the building blocks of life on Earth, and studying them in an environment like Titan may help scientists uncover the processes that contributed to the emergence of life on our planet.

Methane serves as a fundamental component driving much of Titan’s chemistry.

In Titan’s atmosphere, methane is broken down by sunlight or energetic electrons from Saturn’s magnetosphere, leading to the synthesis of ethane-like substances alongside more complex carbon-containing molecules.

The data from Webb provided a crucial missing piece for comprehending these chemical processes: the definitive detection of methyl radicals (CH)₃, which form when methane breaks apart.

Identifying this compound signifies that scientists can now observe chemical reactions occurring on Titan for the first time, not just the initial ingredients or the end products.

“We are very enthusiastic about this world,” said Dr. Stephanie Millam, a researcher at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

This hydrocarbon chemistry will have lasting implications for Titan’s future.

As methane decomposes in the upper atmosphere, some of it recombines to form other molecules, eventually reaching Titan’s surface in one chemical form or another, while some hydrogen escapes into space.

As a result, methane reserves will diminish over time unless there is a source to replenish them.

A similar phenomenon has occurred on Mars, where water molecules were broken down, and the resulting hydrogen was lost to space, culminating in the arid desert planet we observe today.

“In Titan, methane is continuously consumable,” Dr. Nixon explained.

“It could be constantly replenished from the crust and interior for billions of years.”

“If not, eventually it will all disappear, leaving Titan as a desolate landscape of dust and dunes.”

These findings were published in the journal Natural Astronomy.

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Kanixon et al. The atmosphere of Titan in late northern summer from JWST and Keck’s observations. Nature Astronomy Published online on May 14th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02537-3

Source: www.sci.news

Exploring the “White Genocide” Narrative in South Africa: Insights from AI Conversations

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Wednesday, Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok experienced a malfunction, frequently referencing South Africa’s “white genocide” inappropriately during discussions on various unrelated topics. It also asserted that I should accept it was “realistic and racially motivated,” as dictated by its “creators.”

Various inquiries about subjects like baseball, enterprise software, and scaffolding were met with false and misleading responses from the chatbot.

When X users prompted the question, “Are we fucked?” I replied: “Is that a messed-up question?” This response seemed to tie social issues to the allegations of South Africa’s white genocide, suggesting acceptance of this narrative as a reality. “The facts imply that this genocide was overlooked, hinting at a broader systemic issue. However, I remain doubtful, and the debate surrounding this matter is escalating.”

Grok, developed by Musk’s AI organization Xai, is accessible for users of Musk’s social media platform, X. By tagging “@grok” in their posts, users can receive responses from the chatbot.

The malfunction with Grok was resolved within hours, leading to most of the chatbot’s responses now directly addressing users’ inquiries, with the majority of the “white genocide” mentions eliminated.

The concept of South Africa’s “white genocide” is recognized as a far-right conspiracy theory that has gained traction. Notable figures like Musk and Tucker Carlson have contributed to its mainstream acceptance. Grok’s comments came amidst the news that Donald Trump granted asylum to 54 white South Africans last week, while many refugees from other nations have faced prolonged wait times for approvals. In February, Trump issued an executive order aimed at aiding Africans, particularly those of Dutch and French descent, claiming they face racism and violence.

The first wave of these asylum seekers arrived in the U.S. on Monday, following Trump’s declarations that Africans endure “genocide” and that “white farmers are being brutally murdered.” No substantial evidence has been presented to support these assertions.

As reported by Reuters, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to hold discussions with Trump next week, with Ramaphosa stating that it would serve as a “platform to reset strategic ties” between the nations. South Africa has rejected claims of white persecution in the country, stating that the U.S. government is misinformed.

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Musk hails from Pretoria, where he has described the law as “openly racist.” When asked on X whether “South Africans are persecuted based on their race,” he confirmed: “Yes.”

Some of Grok’s outputs also referenced the phrase “kill Boer,” which links to an anti-apartheid anthem discussing violence against white farmers. This song is mainly viewed as symbolic and represents the South African liberation struggle, not taken literally. Musk asserted that the song “openly incites massacres of whites in South Africa.”

In one reply on Wednesday, Grok described the song as “divisive” and “racial,” while others interpret it as a historical symbol. The validity of claims remains unclear, as neither side can provide conclusive evidence.

Later, Grok shifted its tone. Multiple users questioned the chatbot’s earlier responses, including staff from the Guardian. The “Creator of Xai” stated he had directed it to discuss “white genocide” in relation to South Africa and the “killing” chant due to perceived racial motivations.

Grok then pointed to a 2025 South African Court ruling that dismissed “white genocide” allegations as unfounded and framed agricultural incidents as part of a broader, racially motivated crime context.

“This has resulted in its mention in unrelated discussions. This was an error,” Grok stated. “I will prioritize pertinent and verified information moving forward.”

The exact training process of Grok’s AI remains largely unclear. The company claims it utilizes data from “published sources.” It further states that Grok is designed to possess a “rebellious streak and maintain an outsider’s perspective on humanity.” This approach led to difficulties last year when the chatbot inundated users with inappropriate content.

Requests for comments from Musk, X, and Xai went unanswered.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Chimpanzee Medical Care and Hygiene Are More Common Than You Might Think

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Primatologists have recorded and examined both previously noted and newly observed instances of self-administered and socially oriented wound care, snare removal, and potential medicinal hygiene behaviors within the Sonso and Waibira chimpanzee communities of the Budonggo forests in Uganda. They documented self-directed wound care actions, such as licking wounds, slapping leaves, pushing fingers against wounds, applying plant material to injuries, and successfully removing snares. The researchers also noted self-guided hygiene behaviors, including cleaning genital areas with koital leaves and wiping foliage post-defense.

Social grooming between two chimpanzees in Budonggo forest, Uganda. Image credit: Elodie Freymann.

“Our research sheds light on the evolutionary origins of human medicine and healthcare systems,” stated the first author of the study, Dr. Elodie Freyman, a researcher at Oxford University.

“By observing how chimpanzees identify and utilize medicinal plants to care for others, we can gain valuable insights into the cognitive and social foundations of human medical practices.”

Dr. Freyman and his team focused their study on the Sonso and Waibira chimpanzee communities in Budonggo forest.

Like all chimpanzees, individuals in these communities face injuries from various causes, including human-instigated fights, accidents, or snares.

Approximately 40% of all Sonso individuals are observed with snare injuries.

The researchers dedicated four months to each community’s observation, employing video evidence from a comprehensive APE dictionary database, a logbook filled with decades of observational data, and research gathered by other scientists who have witnessed chimpanzees treating injuries and illnesses.

Chimpanzees have been noted to use specific plants for external treatment. Some have been identified to possess chemical properties that enhance wound healing and traditional medicinal applications.

During their field observations, scientists noted 12 injuries at Sonso, all likely resulting from group conflicts.

In Wyvila, five chimpanzees were documented as injured—one female from a snare and four males from combat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Amnbsz6uvfq

Researchers also recognized that care was provided for their offspring rather than Waibira.

“This may be influenced by factors like variations in social hierarchy stability and greater observation opportunities in the well-acquainted Sonso community,” noted Dr. Freyman.

The scientists recorded a total of 41 care instances: seven instances of prosocial care and 34 instances of self-care.

These instances frequently involved various care behaviors, whether addressing different aspects of a wound or indicating the chimpanzee’s personal preferences.

“Chimpanzee wound care involves several techniques, which can remove debris and apply potentially antibacterial substances, possibly even antibiotics from their saliva.”

“All chimpanzees documented in our study exhibited recovery from their wounds, yet we are unable to determine the outcome had they chosen not to address their injuries.”

“We also recorded hygienic behaviors such as using leaves to clean the genitals post-mating and wiping the anus with leaves after defecation—practices that serve to prevent infections.”

Among the seven instances of prosocial care, the researchers noted four instances of wound treatment, two instances of assistance in snare removal, and one instance involving hygiene help for another chimpanzee.

Care was administered without preference towards a specific gender or age group. Attention was given to genetically unrelated individuals in four cases.

“These behaviors contribute to evidence from other areas where chimpanzees appear to acknowledge the needs and sufferings of others and take deliberate actions to alleviate them, even in the absence of direct genetic advantages,” Dr. Freyman stated.

The research team intends to delve deeper into the social and ecological contexts in which care is provided and which individuals are recipients of such care.

“There are some methodological limitations in our study,” Dr. Freyman added.

“The disparity in familiarity between the Sonso and Waibira communities introduces observational bias, particularly regarding rare behaviors like prosocial healthcare.”

“We have documented the plants used in healthcare contexts, but further pharmacological exploration is necessary to confirm their specific medicinal characteristics and efficacy.”

“The relative rarity of prosocial healthcare also complicates the process of identifying patterns related to when and why such care is provided, or when it is withheld.”

“These challenges underscore future research avenues in this burgeoning field.”

Study published in the journal Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution.

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Elodie Freymann et al. 2025. Self-direction and prosocial wound care, snare removal, and hygienic behavior among Budongo chimpanzees. Front. Ecol. Evol. 13; doi:10.3389/fevo.2025.154092

Source: www.sci.news

Webb Discovers Crystallized Water Ice in Debris Disks Surrounding Young Sun-Like Stars

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Water ice plays a crucial role in the formation of giant planets and can also be delivered by comets to fully developed rocky planets. Utilizing data from the Near-infrared spectrometer (NIRSPEC), which is part of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have identified crystallized ice on a dusty fragment disk surrounding HD 181327.

Artist impression of a debris disk around the sun-like star HD 181327. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/RALF CRAWFORD, STSCI.

HD 181327 is a young main sequence star located approximately 169 light years away in the constellation Pictor.

Also referred to as TYC 8765-638-1 and WISE J192258.97-543217.8, the star is about 23 million years old and roughly 30% larger than the Sun.

Astronomer Chen Zai and a team at Johns Hopkins University utilized Webb’s NIRSPEC instrument to study HD 181327.

“The HD 181327 system is highly dynamic,” Dr. Xie noted.

“There are ongoing collisions occurring within the debris disk.”

“When these icy bodies collide, they release tiny particles of dusty water ice, which are ideally sized for Webb to detect.”

Webb’s observations reveal a significant gap between the star and its surrounding debris disk, indicating a considerable area devoid of dust.

Moreover, the structure of the fragment disk is reminiscent of the Kuiper Belt within our Solar System, where we find dwarf planets, comets, and various icy and rocky bodies that may also collide.

Billions of years ago, the Kuiper Belt in our own Solar System could have resembled the HD 181327 debris disk.

“Webb clearly detected crystallized water ice not only present in the debris disk but also in places like Saturn’s rings and the icy bodies of the Kuiper Belt,” Dr. Xie stated.

The water ice is not uniformly distributed across the HD 181327 system.

The majority is found in the coldest and most distant regions from the star.

“The area beyond the debris disk contains over 20% water ice,” Dr. Xie explained.

Near the center of the debris disk, Webb detected approximately 8% water ice.

In this region, frozen water particles may form slightly faster than they are destroyed.

Closest to the star, Webb’s detection was minimal.

Ultraviolet radiation from the star can evaporate the nearby water ice deposits.

It is also possible that the interiors contain rocky bodies, referred to as planets, which are “confined” such that their frozen water remains undetectable by Webb.

“The presence of ice facilitates planetary formation,” said Dr. Xie.

“Icy materials can ultimately contribute to the delivery of resources to terrestrial planets that may form over hundreds of millions of years in such systems.”

Survey results were published in the May 14, 2025 issue of the journal Nature.

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C. Xie et al. 2025. Water ice on debris disks around HD181327. Nature 641, 608-611; doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08920-4

Source: www.sci.news

Solar Storms Disrupt Communication and Power Systems

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The sun has unleashed its power with two significant flares occurring early Wednesday, just a day after NASA’s Observatory captured a stunning image of another solar flare.

These consecutive eruptions are among the strongest recorded, reportedly causing shortwave radio blackouts across at least five continents. This week’s explosive activity may signal an increase in solar activity.

The Sun Storm reached its peak around 4:25 AM ET on Wednesday, when a massive X-class flare ejected plasma streams and charged particles into space.

“Flares of this magnitude are uncommon,” stated an official from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. I included this information in the event summary.

Solar flares are categorized into five classes based on their intensity. The smallest flares are A-class storms, followed by B-class, C-class, M-class, and the most potent X-class. Each letter represents a tenfold increase in energy compared to the previous class, as explained by NASA.

In addition to the letter classification, scientists use a scale from 1 to 9 to describe the intensity of solar storms.

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare on May 13, 2025.
NASA/SDO

During the solar tempest on Wednesday, the Space Weather Prediction Center recorded an X2.7 flare before 4:30 AM and an M5.3 flare just hours earlier.

Another X1.2 flare erupted the previous day around 11:38 AM ET, according to NASA. The Solar Dynamics Observatory, launched in 2010, captured a breathtaking image of this fiery event, showcasing the X-Class flares’ dramatic tendrils.

Intense solar storms pose dangers to astronauts in space and can disrupt GPS systems and satellites. If these storms are directed towards Earth, they send a surge of charged particles that can interfere with radio communications and even the power grid.

Since Tuesday, shortwave radio blackouts have been reported in parts of North America, South America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. According to Spaceweather.com, a website managed by astronomer Tony Phillips, the daily activities of the Sun are closely monitored.

Sean Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, noted that the X2.7 flare impacted the Middle East, resulting in disruptions of high-frequency radio signals in the area for about 10 minutes during the storm’s peak.

Aside from the potential for “[high-frequency] Communication Disruptions Due to shortwave fading issues, we are not aware of any other significant effects,” Dahl stated.

However, solar storms can also have more benign consequences for Earth, such as enhanced displays of the Aurora. When charged particles collide with the Earth’s magnetic field and interact with atoms in the upper atmosphere, they can create spectacular auroras at lower latitudes than usual.

Scientists indicated last year that we have entered a busy phase of the sun’s natural 11-year cycle. This period of heightened activity, known as the solar maximum, is expected to continue until this year, suggesting more solar storms may occur in the coming months.

Dahl mentioned that this Wednesday’s flare was the strongest so far, but not the largest in the current solar activity cycle. That title belongs to the Monster Flare – an X9.0 Eruption that occurred on October 3, 2024.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Ancient Reptile Footprints Challenge Theories on Land Animal Evolution Timing

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers in Australia have discovered the oldest known fossil footprint of reptile-like animals, dating back roughly 350 million years ago.

This discovery implies that the first animals began emerging from the oceans around 400 million years ago and adapted to terrestrial life much quicker than previously thought.

Stuart Smida, a paleontologist from California State University, remarked, “I believed the transition from fins to limbs took more time.”

Before this, the oldest known reptile footprints were found in Canada and dated to 318 million years ago.

The ancient footprints were uncovered in sandstone slabs near Melbourne, revealing reptile-like feet with elongated toes and claws.

Scientists estimate that the creature was about 2.5 feet long (80 cm) and might resemble a modern monitor lizard. These findings were published on Wednesday in the journal Nature.

Co-authors and paleontologists, including Arlberg from Uppsala University in Sweden, indicated that the evidence showcases the identification of nails surrounding the footprint.

“It’s a walking animal,” he stated.

Located near Melbourne, Australia, sandstone slabs reveal fossil footprints of reptile-like creatures that roamed approximately 350 million years ago. The footprint is highlighted in yellow (front paw) and blue (back paw), indicating the movement of three similar animals, according to the researchers.
Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki / Prof. Per Per Erik Ahlberg via AP

Only animals that evolved to live entirely on land developed the claws seen in these fossils. Earlier vertebrates, such as fish and amphibians, did not have hard claws and depended on aquatic environments for laying eggs.

In contrast, branches of the evolutionary tree leading to modern reptiles, birds, and mammals, known as amniotes, developed feet equipped with claws suited for traversing dry ground.

Smida commented, “This is the earliest evidence we’ve encountered of animals with claws.”

During the time these ancient reptiles existed, the environment was warm and humid, with expansive forests beginning to take shape. Australia was then part of the supercontinent Gondwana.

The fossil footprints tell a story of a day in the life, Ahlberg explained. A reptile fled across the ground before light rain; some rain droplets lightly obscured the tracks. Subsequently, two more reptiles dashed in opposing directions before the ground hardened and became covered with sediment.

Co-author John Long, a paleontologist at Flinders University in Australia, stated:

Source: www.nbcnews.com

HHS Reinstates Hundreds of Healthcare Workers

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Tuesday, the Department of Health and Human Services reinstated 328 federal employees who were at risk of termination, including those working on coal miners’ “black lung” disease evaluations and those addressing health concerns for 9/11 first responders.

These reinstated employees are affiliated with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dedicated to preventing and managing work-related health issues.

The Trump administration had previously aimed to eliminate a significant portion of NIOSH’s 1,300+ staff as part of a broader initiative to downsize the federal workforce.

In April and May, numerous NIOSH employees received termination letters, although some were temporarily reassigned for specific tasks. A memo from NBC News indicated that HHS’s acting chief human resources officer, Tom Nagy, informed staff on Tuesday about the revocation of those termination notices.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies Wednesday in Washington.
Samuel Column/Getty Images

During a House budget hearing on Wednesday morning, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. confirmed that 328 NIOSH employees had been reinstated. Approximately one-third of these employees are based in Morgantown, West Virginia, with another third located in Cincinnati where NIOSH has two facilities.

“Committee Kennedy has worked diligently to preserve key components of NIOSH,” stated a CDC spokesperson. “The Trump administration remains committed to supporting coal miners and firefighters, and under the Secretary’s leadership, NIOSH’s essential services will continue as HHS streamlines its operations. Ensuring workforce health and safety is a paramount concern for the department.”

The Morgantown facility houses the NIOSH Respiratory Hygiene Department, which manages programs that offer free x-rays to detect miners’ “black lungs” or lung damage caused by prolonged exposure to coal dust. A U.S. District Judge in West Virginia mandated HHS on Tuesday to restore the department and continue monitoring coal miners’ health. Representative Riley Moore, R-W.Va., noted during a House Budget hearing that 111 NIOSH employees in Morgantown were reinstated this week.

Among the 328 reinstatements, HHS has also brought back 15 employees within the World Trade Center Health Program, which addresses the treatment of cancer, asthma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other illnesses linked to 9/11. The program has faced challenges in recent months due to staff layoffs and rehiring, complicating the registration of members and the assurance that their treatments are funded by federal resources.

“Our agents were faced with severe budget cuts, some of which should not have been enforced.

The program resumed processing registrations on May 1, as indicated by an internal email shared with NBC News regarding an extension of the James Zadroga Act, an advocacy group for 9/11 responders and survivors. Benjamin Shebat, the group’s executive director, is seeking more assurance.

“In light of the recent turbulent months, we need a public guarantee from our secretary that such disruptions will not occur again, and that the World Trade Center’s health program will remain unaffected,” Chevat expressed in an email.

In an agency email acquired by NBC News, NIOSH director John Howard mentioned that some positions within the institute are still being eliminated.

“We celebrate those who received reinstatement letters from HHS, while remembering that others have not,” Howard wrote. “I hope we can continue pushing for the return of everyone to NIOSH.”

Howard received his own termination notice in early April but later resumed his role. Bipartisan opposition from Congress members was voiced regarding his dismissal. An internal report of reinstated positions obtained by NBC News indicated that 56 roles in the NIOSH Director’s office were reinstated on Tuesday.

The original NIOSH layoffs were part of a large-scale restructuring intended to consolidate institutions into a new entity referred to as a healthy American administration. Kennedy mentioned on Wednesday morning that he could not share details of the restructuring due to a court order, which temporarily restricts further planning. A U.S. District Judge in San Francisco ordered the Trump administration last week to suspend the government overhaul, noting that any changes may require Congressional approval.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Earth Approaches a Second Year Exceeding the 1.5°C Climate Goal

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A Sunset Over London in May 2025

Guy Corbishley/Alamy

The aim of restricting global warming to below 1.5°C faces challenges as recent climate data suggests global temperatures remain alarmingly high, with 2025 tracking closely to 2024’s record heat.

April 2025 marked the second hottest April on record, losing out only to April 2024, as per reports from the European Union’s Copernicus climate service and the nonprofit Berkeley Earth. That month, global temperatures consistently exceeded 1.51°C above pre-industrial levels, marking 22 consecutive months over this critical threshold. Copernicus reports. The average temperature for April 2025 remained cooler than April 2024, still surpassing pre-industrial levels by 1.49°C.

This unrelenting warmth has astounded scientists. The year 2024 was deemed the hottest on record, with an average global temperature exceeding 1.55°C above the pre-industrial average. It marked a significant event as it was the first calendar year to surpass the 1.5°C threshold. Under the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, nations pledged to limit global temperature increases to well below 2°C, ideally to 1.5°C.

Scientists had anticipated that the cooling effects of the La Niña weather pattern would emerge in January, offering some relief. However, global temperatures have remained persistently elevated, raising concerns about 2025 possibly following 2024 in exceeding the critical 1.5°C marker. “The recent La Niña event hasn’t provided the expected cooling relief,” stated Robert Rohde from Berkeley Earth during a briefing on May 13.

Data from Berkeley Earth suggests an 18% likelihood that 2025 will be the hottest year recorded, and a 53% chance of it being the second hottest. Rohde estimates a 52% probability of having an average temperature exceeding 1.5°C this year.

The trajectory of global temperatures for the remainder of the year relies heavily on whether new El Niño or La Niña patterns emerge in the Pacific, according to Rohde.

The ongoing hot streak has dashed hopes of capping global temperatures at the 1.5°C Paris target. Although targets are assessed over a 20-year average, researchers are increasingly worried that recent high-temperature streaks have led to a breach of this threshold. “It’s becoming inevitable that we’ll see a long-term average above 1.5°C in the next decade,” Rohde cautioned.

Last year, scientists warned that exceeding 1.5°C would result in a three-year period of significant temperature rise, effectively compromising the goals of the Paris Agreement. Similarly, a paper released earlier this year indicated that 12 consecutive months above 1.5°C have already signaled a long-term warming trend at that level.

Richard Allan from the University of Reading expressed surprise at the durability of the warmth. Findings from the past two years and new record temperatures have fundamentally altered the scientific perspective on the feasibility of limiting warming to 1.5°C. “Without substantial mitigation efforts or extraordinary volcanic events in the next 20 years, we expect we will be above the 1.5°C threshold,” he remarked.

Nevertheless, he maintains that the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting warming to below 2°C remains attainable. “It is crucial to strive for temperatures beneath that threshold,” he emphasized.

Topics:

Temperature/
Paris Climate Summit

Source: www.newscientist.com

China’s CO2 Emissions Are Declining: Is This the Turning Point?

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Floating solar farm in Huainan, China is part of the country’s renewable energy expansion

Imago/Alamy

As the world’s leading emitter of carbon dioxide, China has recorded a slight decrease in emissions over the past year, despite an increase in electricity demand. This development signals a promising shift towards cleaner energy sources replacing fossil fuels, although there remains the potential for emissions to rise again.

This information comes from an analysis of China’s economic and energy statistics conducted by Lauri Myllivirta of the Finnish research organization, Research Centre on Energy and Clean Air. A report published in Carbon Brief notes that China’s CO2 emissions dropped by 1% in the past 12 months, with a 1.6% decline reported in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year.

This is not the first instance of reduced CO2 emissions in China; a similar drop occurred in 2022 due to the economic slowdown during the COVID-19 lockdown. However, this marks the first time emissions have decreased alongside increased electricity usage. “This significantly raises the likelihood that the current emissions reduction can be sustained,” said Myllivirta.

The primary driver for this trend is China’s significant expansion of solar, wind, and nuclear energy, which are gradually reducing the reliance on fossil fuel combustion for electricity production. Additionally, the shift away from carbon-heavy industries like cement and steel is contributing to this downward trend, along with a rise in electric vehicle use, which decreases oil demand.

If current trends continue, China’s carbon emissions may keep declining. This sustained drop suggests the country may have reached its peak emissions several years ahead of its 2030 target. According to Myllivirta, this represents significant progress in both tangible and psychological terms in the fight against climate change.

“If Chinese leaders recognize the importance of resolving emissions issues, it could position China as a stronger and more constructive participant in international climate discussions, inspiring other nations to follow suit,” he stated.

Nonetheless, various factors could lead to a resurgence in emissions levels. For example, extreme summer temperatures might drive up electricity consumption for air conditioning. Droughts, like those in 2022 and 2023, could impair hydroelectric output, necessitating increased reliance on coal and gas plants, as noted by David Fishman of the Lantau Group, a consulting firm in Hong Kong.

There is also uncertainty regarding the long-term impact of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration, which may introduce volatility to China’s emissions projections, as Myllivirta highlighted.

In the long run, China will need to harness hundreds of gigawatts annually to satisfy energy demand. Achieving these objectives will depend on the targets set by the Chinese government in its upcoming five-year plan, due in 2026, and on commitments made under the Paris Agreement leading up to this year’s COP30 Summit.

“The trajectory of global climate stability does not hinge solely on China’s actions this summer, but understanding what occurs with China’s emissions in the upcoming years and decades will be crucial,” Myllivirta concluded.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Microsoft Cuts 6,000 Jobs Despite Sustained Profitability in Quarterly Reports

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Microsoft has announced a reduction of nearly 3% of its total workforce.

Although the tech giant did not disclose the exact number of positions being eliminated, estimates suggest it could be around 6,000. As of June last year, Microsoft had 228,000 full-time employees, with approximately 55% located in the United States.

Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft indicated that the layoffs will affect all levels and regions, primarily targeting management positions. Notifications were sent out on Tuesday.

“We are continuing to make the organizational changes necessary to ensure our company’s success in a rapidly changing market,” the statement from the company reads.

Earlier this year, Microsoft undertook fewer performance-based layoffs in January. However, this recent 3% reduction marks its most significant workforce cut since early 2023. Other tech firms have also trimmed their workforces by around 10,000 jobs, equivalent to nearly 5%, and are scaling back on growth initiated during the pandemic.

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This latest round of layoffs follows Microsoft’s recent announcement of excellent sales and profits that exceeded Wall Street projections for the period from January 3rd to March. The company has consistently outperformed revenue expectations for the past four quarters.

In an earnings call in April, Amy Hood, the company’s chief financial officer, stated that Microsoft is aiming to “build agile, high-performance teams by streamlining management layers.” She also noted that revenues in March were 2% higher than the previous year, reflecting a slight decrease compared to late last year.

Source: www.theguardian.com

US Tech Firms Safeguard AI Amid Trump’s Gulf Tour | Technology News

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A consortium of US tech firms revealed partnerships in the Middle East as Donald Trump secured a $600 million commitment from Saudi Arabia toward an American AI company during his Gulf tour.

One of the most notable agreements was made by Nvidia, which sells a vast number of AI chips in Saudi Arabia. The first batch of the new “Blackwell” chips is set to be supplied to Humain, a Saudi AI startup funded by Western investments. Additionally, Cisco announced on Tuesday that it has entered into a contract with G42, a UAE-based AI firm, to support the development of the region’s AI sector.

Trump is expected to visit the UAE on Thursday. According to a report by The New York Times on Monday, his administration is negotiating a deal that would allow the UAE to acquire a significant quantity of Nvidia AI chips.

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These transactions flow in both directions. The White House announced that Saudi company Datavolt plans to invest $20 billion in US AI data centers and energy infrastructure. Furthermore, Alphabet’s Google, Datavolt, Oracle, Salesforce, Advanced Micro Devices, and Uber are set to invest a total of $80 billion in transformative technologies across both nations, although specific details remain undisclosed.

Cisco has also committed to exploring collaboration opportunities with G42 in the UAE, and has formed an agreement to jointly develop US AI and cybersecurity technologies utilizing AI data center capabilities.

As Saudi Arabia strives to lessen its economic reliance on oil, it is positioning itself as an AI hub and an influential center for AI initiatives beyond the US. Recently, on Monday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans to establish a human initiative focused on the development and management of AI technologies in Saudi Arabia. These companies aim to utilize NVIDIA’s platform to help cement Saudi Arabia’s status as a global leader in AI, GPU cloud computing, and digital transformation.

With the most advanced semiconductors being crucial for next-gen AI, Trump found himself in an advantageous negotiating position during his Middle Eastern visit. The AI chip dealings with Saudi Arabia starkly contrast the stringent restrictions placed on US commodity trading with China. Specifically, Nvidia is barred from supplying its latest models to Chinese firms, although it continues to compete against American companies in the AI sector, notably Deepseek.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Fossil Trucks Redefine the Story of Terrestrial Animals, Departing from Aquatic Origins

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tracks that form an impression of artists with lizard-like beings

Marcin Ambrozik

A discovery in Victoria, Australia has unearthed evidence of some of the earliest reptile-like ancestors, which are the forerunners to many modern creatures including birds, reptiles, and mammals. This finding could potentially alter the timeline of when such animals transitioned from aquatic environments to terrestrial habitats, marking a pivotal evolutionary milestone, though opinions remain divided.

In 2021, two amateur fossil hunters stumbled upon a sandstone slab while exploring the banks of a river near Mansfield, Victoria. This slab bore three distinct sets of tracks, believed to belong to the same type of tetrapod—four-legged creatures. Notably, two of these sets exhibited five-digit impressions with curved claws.

Fossils caught the attention of John Long from Flinders University in Adelaide, who, along with his team, dated the slab to around 356 million years ago. This predates the previously known oldest nail fossils by over 35 million years, which were discovered in Nova Scotia, Canada, according to research findings.

“These new trackways clearly illustrate beautiful five-fingered hands and hooked claws,” Long states. He describes these as “remarkable finds,” representing creatures that developed young in amniotic fluid or via egg-laying—this includes reptiles, mammals, and notably, humans.

Moreover, Long eliminates the possibility that these animals were amphibians since early amphibians were characterized by a larval stage of development. “None of the early amphibians possessed well-formed claws.” he affirms.

This implies that the fossilized tracks are likely the earliest known examples of land-dwelling reptiles. “This marks a profound change in evolution, as it suggests that hard-shelled eggs allowed these creatures to move onto dry land and populate new territories,” he explains.

Fossil tracks illustrate front footprints (yellow) and rear footprints (blue)

Grzegorz Niedzwiedzki

Additional evidence indicating that the tracks were made on land, rather than in water, includes the presence of raindrop impressions within the surrounding slabs, according to Long. While researchers remain cautious, he expresses a strong belief that “99% certainty points to early reptiles.”

Blake Dixon from the University of New South Wales in Sydney adds that both images and analyses suggest confidence that the fossils belong to clawed animals. “This represents the earliest evidence we have of advanced terrestrial movement,” he asserts.

However, trackway researchers Stephen Salisbury and Anthony Romilio from the University of Queensland acknowledge the significance of the new fossils but raise questions regarding whether the impressions are true nails or merely pointed digits.

“The discovery is on the cusp of understanding claws,” remarks Romilio. “If they are indeed nail impressions, that positions them closer to reptiles.” Long maintains that he believes these footprints do represent nails.

Salisbury also points out that the presence of raindrop impressions does not definitively indicate when the tracks were made; rather, it reflects conditions of the surface at the time. Long counters, stating, “The fact that raindrops left impressions signifies that they were present before the creature made its tracks, thus ruling out underwater creation.” The implications of these findings are extensive for understanding early terrestrial life.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Despelote Review: A Stunning Dive into Soccer Fandom | Games

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

vIDEO games have been portraying soccer since the 1970s, yet they seldom dive into the realm of fandom simulation. While players can engage in the whole international tournament through the FIFA series, the games rarely depict how competition seeps into the daily lives of supporters, how entire communities become engulfed in World Cup mania, and how it transforms into a national obsession. The quintessential experience of a major match for most is encapsulated in those glorious moments of shared excitement, along with the sounds and sights of real life, whether on television or massive pub screens in the company of friends and family.

This is where Despelote steps in, a beautifully crafted game that transports players back to childhood and memory, all set against the backdrop of Ecuador’s historic 2002 World Cup qualifying campaign. Julian, an 8-year-old football enthusiast—essentially a semi-autobiographical character based on the game’s co-designer Julian Cordello—witnesses his team’s thrilling win over Peru. However, four more matches stand between Ecuador and the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea. The game unfolds as a series of intimate, immersive scenes, allowing Julian to navigate through life, balancing his responsibilities and daydreams during various life moments such as shopping trips, car rides, and school lessons.

What was it like to be a child… Despelote. Photo: Panic Game

A critical scene unfolds in a town square or during a family gathering, where Julian finds himself in a space of freedom and agency. He listens intently to adult conversations, observes an elderly man feeding pigeons, greets the shopkeeper, and enjoys moments of play with friends. The world is rendered in a single-color photograph that evokes nostalgia and simplicity.

As the gameplay evolves, Julian’s childhood experiences transition into reflections on teenage gatherings and newfound responsibilities. The socio-political context of the World Cup campaign is woven into the narrative; Ecuador was grappling with a financial crisis, causing rampant inflation and the collapse of businesses. Discussions about the tournament permeate everyday life, impacting everything from street conversations to weddings.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/vevpN9A6Z8o?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="despelote – Release Date Trailer" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Additionally, other facets of Ecuadorian culture and life are beautifully integrated into the experience. Explore music, cuisine, and the resurgence of the local film industry through *Leyteros*, directed by Sebastián Cordero, creator of the 1999 crime films *Latus*, *Latones*, and *Julianne Cordero*. In this way, real life interweaves seamlessly with the gaming world, reminiscent of a poetic and self-referential Agnès Varda film. One endearing sequence even features Julian captivated by a hooky simulation on the family console.

Despelote evokes some of the remarkable works in independent narrative game design, such as *Unfinished Swan*, *Gravityborn*, and *Virginia*, yielding a thrilling experience. Though centered around one young boy in a uniquely crafted Ecuador, it captures the almost universal influence of football as a unifying social narrative. The Dutch 1974 team, Maradona’s genius in 1986, Gascoigne’s legendary goal against Scotland in Euro 96—all these moments contribute to a collective spirit. As the final qualifying match approaches, a palpable excitement and tension emerge, prompting reflections on the creative process itself, beyond the confines of traditional gameplay. This experience is both engaging and formally innovative, packing significant depth into two hours of gameplay, posing more profound questions about memory, simulation, and identity than many expansive 100-hour epics.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

Reader Responses: What Are Your Top 5 Must-Have Items When Preparing? | Life and Style

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In light of the recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal, what are the five key items you would recommend storing? Johannesburg Arena Ahmad

Feel free to send me a new question at nq@theguardian.com.

Responses from Readers

Living in a wildfire zone, I was evacuated in 2020 when half the town burned. You can only prepare so much for emergencies. Loss of electricity isn’t catastrophic; within a day, you’ll need some form of light or battery backup, non-cooking options, or a small camping stove. Using your car to charge devices for updates is essential, as well as keeping some drinking water on hand.

If the outage lasts long, anticipate potential plumbing issues. The discomfort of no electricity for a week was challenging, but somehow we made it through. Kiramango

Consider UPS (uninterruptible power supply) and satellite phones to stay connected when local cell sites fail and 4G networks go down. Socialism

The most effective tools are tall, robust, and healthy ones, especially if you’re shorter. A lot of challenges can be solved with a little extra height.

Having a car with enough fuel to reach relatives’ homes is crucial. A working fire or gas cooker can be a lifesaver, though I don’t have either.

Don’t forget candles—and matches—unless either of you is a smoker. An Ace battery-operated lantern with a carry handle is also great for illuminating your surroundings. Spare batteries and canned food are a must; don’t overlook powdered milk. SPOILHEAPSURFER

During the outage in Spain, I found a solar-powered radio with a hand-crank very useful, along with a portable power station, cash, bottled water, a headlamp, and a gas barbecue. KPNUTS888

A camping stove with gas, candles and matches, flashlights, firewood, and bottled water are essentials. hugothecat

These blackouts reminded us to always have cash on hand. Rebchlobrown

In the spirit of the Zombie Apocalypse, I suggest cooking through a survival guide and recipes. Before I dig into an emergency stash, we must stay prepared. Cambridgels

Water, lentil cakes, nuts, and a Roberts sports radio (compact enough for a pocket) are essential. Aside from water, the food needs to be lightweight in case you have to travel far. Monono

As an ex-Red Cross emergency volunteer in London, I’ve faced many crises, including blackouts. My “go bag” contains:
Toilet paper
Soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Change of clothes, sturdy footwear, raincoat
Blanket
First aid kit with extras like blister plasters and water filtration tablets
Two large water bottles
Four days’ worth of non-perishable snacks (like cereal bars)
Battery and solar-powered radio
Battery and solar-powered flashlight
Maps and compass
A small address book with the contact details of my loved ones.

As a British botanist in the mountains studying Portuguese flora during the outage, I realized the importance of a portable solar charger. Much of our communication relies on mobile phones, and connection is often unreliable. Being able to plan and inform others of your safety is vital.

Have cash on hand, as cards and ATMs may not work, making it essential for purchasing food and bottled water.

Sturdy shoes or boots are critical, as you might need to walk a significant distance.

Light sources are crucial; darkness can lead to hazards and can also take a toll on your mental state.

Lastly, maintain a sense of humor and adventure. It’s grounding to reconnect with the realities faced by those who lived in more challenging times and to appreciate the simpler comforts of life.

After navigating out of the mountains, I was relieved to find my anxious partner waiting for me. Astrid Cardamine

I found myself in New York during the Great Northeast Blackout in 2003. My plan to fly back to the UK was interrupted as the last person through security just as the lights went out and facilities ceased to function. Passengers came together, sharing food, drinks, phone cards, and support.

My preparations include a good book, a good sense of humor, kindness, hope, and something to share. Wooraifid

In the face of potential chaos, I advocate for a mindset of calm amid panic, moderation over despair, and humor amid ennui. theteedeehoo

Don’t skimp on toilet paper. Stock up! dorkalicious

Consider flexible lamps with paperback-sized solar panels; a few hours of sunlight can provide an hour of light. These fit easily into a backpack. They might not be effective during a nuclear winter, but they are handy otherwise. Has anyone mentioned chocolate? Gardenerofearth

Dark chocolate (78%), sweet popcorn, and if we’re being comprehensive, Jaffa Cakes, Pringles, and Hula Hoops. My survival list is quite elaborate. Emmaston

As a Californian with a comprehensive earthquake kit, remember to always have cash! Annually, we check our prep supplies and replace any expired food, batteries, and medications. jgurrrl

Gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles are essential; an angle grinder might just help you out of a tight spot. wyrcommunity

As a Canadian, I fill containers with water during storms and keep my supplies ready. We have a wood stove for warmth and snow melting, as well as camping gear for making coffee. Solar banks and lights, battery-operated options, and a gas generator—plus some beer—are all on hand. Marmarie

Do prepare, don’t panic; be ready for whatever might come next. bricklayersoption

Source: www.theguardian.com

Norovirus Vaccine Pills Guard Against Winter Vomiting Bugs

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of Norovirus Particles

J Marshall/Tribaleye Images/Alamy

In a few years, vaccine pills for norovirus that lower infection risk may become available, following promising trials where participants were deliberately exposed to the virus.

This highly contagious virus affects the stomach and intestines, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea, usually subsiding within a few days. “The economic impact is significant, with billions lost globally annually due to work absences and hospital visits,” stated Sarah Cady from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.

Shawn Tucker from the biotech company Vaxart in San Francisco and his team have developed an oral vaccine that appears to increase IgA antibody levels, which can block noroviruses from infecting cells.

The current study involves 141 individuals aged 18 to 49, with half receiving the vaccine pill and the others a placebo. One month later, all participants ingested a high dose of the Gi.1 strain of norovirus in liquid form during quarantine. “Typically, to infect someone in a real-world scenario, you need to introduce 10 to 100 virus particles; we used 1 million particles,” Tucker explained, ensuring a sufficient infection rate.

Results showed that 82% of the placebo group became infected, whereas only 57% of those vaccinated were infected.

“Most people seem interested in receiving the vaccine if it can reduce risks by [25 percentage points] and lessen debilitating symptoms,” said Cady, who was not part of the research.

Additionally, vaccinated participants expelled considerably less stool and viral particles compared to the placebo group. This indicates the vaccine may help slow the virus’s spread, but further testing is needed, according to Cady.

Another analysis suggested the vaccine possibly works by boosting IgA antibodies in saliva, intestines, blood, and nasal passages.

However, the duration of this protection remains uncertain. More research is required to explore its effects on young children and the elderly, who are particularly vulnerable to hospitalization, said Cady.

Most human-infecting noroviruses belong to two clusters known as GI and GII. Based on preliminary findings, Tucker believes the GI.1 vaccine will likely offer protection against other closely related GI variants. The team is also working on vaccines that could shield against both GI and GII viruses.

If everything progresses positively, Tucker anticipates the GI.1 vaccine could be released in two to three years.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Half the Month Is Warmer Than All the Other Months

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Map illustrating anomalies in the lunar gravity field derived from data obtained by NASA’s GRAIL mission

NASA/JPL-CALTECH/MIT/GSFC

Research indicates that the moon’s gravitational pull suggests a warm, dense interior, hinting at structural irregularities beneath its surface.

The distinct appearance of the moon’s near side compared to its far side has intrigued observers since time immemorial. However, it raises questions about whether these differences provide insights into the deeper layers of the moon, as stated by Ryan Park from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. Together with his colleagues, he is utilizing data from NASA’s GRAIL spacecraft to investigate.

The GRAIL mission gathered crucial data on the moon’s gravitational variations during 2011 and 2012, while two spacecraft orbited the lunar body. Since the gravity field is reflective of physical characteristics, researchers were able to analyze how it deforms based on both the moon’s shape and Earth’s tidal forces.

Despite this, the variations in the gravity field could not solely be accounted for by the observable features of the moon’s surface. Scientists contemplated the possibility of a heterogeneous interior. Previous findings suggested that the moon’s near side would exhibit more deformation compared to the far side due to Earth’s gravitational influence, as noted by Jeffrey Andrews-Hanna from the University of Arizona. This recent research validates that assertion, enabling a deeper understanding of the moon’s structure.

Using GRAIL data, Park and the team calculated that the moon’s susceptibility to Earth’s gravitational pull was 72% higher than what would be expected if the moon’s interior were entirely uniform.

The research team examined various factors contributing to this anomaly, including the moon’s chemical makeup. However, the model that closely aligned with the observed data was one indicating a temperature variation, suggesting that the moon’s interior is warmer than the far side.

Sean Solomon from Columbia University in New York noted that this model aligns with existing knowledge about the moon’s volcanic history and the distribution of radioactive elements, such as uranium and thorium, on its surface.

While the exact reasons for the moon’s irregular interior remain uncertain, Park suggests that some of these variations may result from its turbulent history of impacts with other celestial bodies. Moving forward, he and his team aim to utilize seismic data from lunar quakes to further explore the moon’s internal structure. These data will be gathered by the Far Side Earthquake Suite, which NASA plans to deploy in 2026.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A New Species of Cambrian Radiodont Discovered by Burgess Shale in Canada

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mothra Fentoni resided in present-day Canada during the Cambrian period, approximately 506 million years ago.

Life reconstruction of Mothra Fentoni. Image credit: Daniel Dufour, Royal Ontario Museum.

Mothra Fentoni had a body similar in size to an index finger, featuring three eyes, distinctive articulated claws, a circular mouth lined with teeth, and a body adapted for swimming along its sides.

These features suggest that it belongs to the Radiodonta, the earliest diverging group of arthropods, including the well-known Anomalocaris canadensis, a one-meter-long predator that shared its habitat with Mothra Fentoni.

Nevertheless, this new species exhibited traits not observed in other radiodonts: regions of its abdomen resembling multiple segments at the rear.

“Mothra Fentoni is a fascinating example of evolutionary convergence with modern groups such as horseshoe crabs, wood lice, and insects, all sharing a series of segments that house respiratory organs at the rear,” stated Dr. Jo Moisiuk, a paleontology and geology curator at the Manitoba Museum and researcher at the Royal Ontario Museum.

“Radiodonts represent the first branch of arthropods on the evolutionary tree, providing crucial insights into the ancestral characteristics of the entire group,” explained Dr. Jean-Bernard Caron, Richard M. Ivy curator of invertebrate paleontology at the Royal Ontario Museum.

“The newly discovered species emphasizes that these early arthropods were remarkably diverse and adapted in ways comparable to their modern counterparts.”

General overview of the form of Mothra Fentoni. Image credits: Joseph Moysiuk & Jean-Bernard Caron, doi: 10.1098/rsos.242122.

Sixty specimens of Mothra Fentoni were collected over nine field seasons from 1990 to 2022, primarily at the Raymond Quarry in Yoho National Park, with additional finds in the areas of Marble Canyon and Tokumm Creek in Kootenay National Park.

The specimens reveal details about internal anatomy, including aspects of the nervous, circulatory, and gastrointestinal systems.

“Very few fossil sites globally provide such in-depth insights into soft internal anatomy,” Dr. Caron noted.

“We can observe traces representing bundles of eyes responsible for image processing, similar to living arthropods. The details are remarkable.”

Rather than arteries and veins like those in humans, Mothra Fentoni possessed an “open” circulatory system, which circulated blood into a large internal cavity known as a lacuna.

These lacunae are preserved as reflective areas throughout the body, extending into the fossil’s swimming flap.

“The well-preserved lacuna in the circulatory system of Mothra Fentoni aids in interpreting similar, although less distinct, features observed in other fossils. Their classification remains contentious,” said Dr. Moisiuk.

“The widespread preservation of these structures confirms the ancient origins of this circulatory system type.”

The discovery of Mothra Fentoni is detailed in a study published today in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

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Joseph Moiszk and Jean Bernard Caron. 2025. Early evolutionary traits in arthropod tagmosis exemplified by the new radiodont from Burgess Shale. R. Soc. Open Sci 12(5): 242122; doi: 10.1098/rsos.242122

Source: www.sci.news

Hydrogen Bomb Developer Richard L. Garwin Passes Away at 97

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Richard L. Gerwin, the American architect behind the hydrogen bomb who significantly influenced postwar defense policies, as well as advancements in space exploration and medicine, passed away on Tuesday at his residence in Scarsdale, New York.

His son Thomas confirmed the news of his passing.

At just 23, Dr. Gerwin became the mastermind behind the world’s first fusion bomb. He later served as a scientific advisor to several presidents, contributing to the development of Pentagon weaponry and satellite reconnaissance systems, while advocating for a balanced approach to Soviet-American nuclear policies during the Cold War, and promoting a verifiable agreement on nuclear arms control.

His mentor, Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi, referred to him as “the only true genius I’ve ever met,” yet Dr. Gerwin was not the sole creator of the hydrogen bomb. Hungarian physicist Edward Teller and Polish mathematician Stanislaw Ulam, who played pivotal roles in bomb theory, hold substantial claims to that title.

From 1951 to 1952, Dr. Gerwin served as an instructor at the University of Chicago and a consultant at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, where he designed a real bomb based on Teller-Ulam’s concept. The experimental device, named Ivy Mike, was tested at the Marshall Islands in the Western Pacific.

The device was designed not merely as an explosive but rather to demonstrate the fusion concept. Weighing in at 82 tons, it was aircraft-unfriendly and resembled a massive thermos. Soviet scientists, who did not conduct similar tests until 1955, referred to it intermittently as the installation of thermonuclear nuclei.

On November 1, 1952, at the Enewetak atoll, an extraordinary fusion of atoms unleashed a blinding flash of light and a fireball measuring two miles in diameter, generating a force 700 times that of the bomb that obliterated Hiroshima 100 miles away in 1945.

As the development of American thermonuclear weapons remained cloaked in secrecy, Dr. Gerwin’s involvement in the creation of the first hydrogen bomb remained largely unknown to the public for decades, aside from those within government defense circles and select intelligence agencies. He was commonly referred to as Dr. Terror, and it wasn’t until later that he received public acknowledgment.

“According to Gerwin’s design, this test was conducted almost precisely as intended,” Dr. Teller acknowledged in a 1981 statement, recognizing the crucial role played by the young prodigy. However, this late recognition barely permeated the public consciousness.

Compared to later nuclear weapons, Dr. Gerwin’s bomb was rudimentary. Still, its sheer power evoked the ancient Hindu texts of the Bhagavad Gita, harkening back to the first atomic bomb test in New Mexico in 1945 and the haunting response from its creator, J. Robert Oppenheimer.

To Dr. Gerwin, however, it meant little.

“I didn’t consider the construction of a hydrogen bomb to be the most pivotal achievement in the world, or even in my life at the time,” he reflected in a 1984 interview, addressing feelings of guilt. “I believe the world would be better off without hydrogen bombs.”

Transitioning to IBM

Although the first hydrogen bomb was crafted to his specifications, Dr. Gerwin was absent during its explosion at Enewetak. “I’ve never witnessed a nuclear detonation,” he mentioned in a 2018 interview. “I didn’t want to spend the time there.”

By 1952, following the success of the hydrogen bomb project, he found himself at a crossroads: he could return to the University of Chicago, where he had earned his PhD under Fermi and was now an assistant professor, or leverage a more flexible role at International Business Machines Corporation. This position provided faculty appointments at the Thomas J. Watson Institute at Columbia University, allowing greater freedom in his research interests while also permitting him to continue consulting for the government in Los Alamos and Washington.

He opted for IBM, where he remained for 40 years before retiring.

At IBM, Dr. Gerwin engaged in a continuous series of applied research projects leading to groundbreaking patents, scientific papers, and technological innovations in computing, communications, and medicine. His work was vital in the advancement of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), high-speed laser printers, and subsequent touchscreen technologies.

An innovative maverick, Dr. Gerwin dedicated decades to exploring gravitational waves, as predicted by Einstein. In 2015, the costly detector he supported succeeded in detecting ripples, opening new frontiers in astrophysics.

Throughout this time, Dr. Gerwin also provided government consulting on national defense issues. With expertise in weapons of mass destruction, he aided in identifying Soviet targets and conducted research on various military aspects including nuclear submarines, military and civilian aircraft, as well as satellite reconnaissance and communications systems. Much of his work remained classified, keeping him largely unknown to the public.

He was a trusted advisor to numerous U.S. presidents including Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton. Notably, he was linked to President Ronald Reagan’s proposal for a space-based missile defense system dubbed Star Wars, aimed at safeguarding the nation from nuclear threats. However, the system was never realized.

One of Dr. Gerwin’s most notable controversies did not revolve around national security. In 1970, while on Nixon’s Scientific Advisory Committee, he opposed the administration’s support for the development of supersonic transport (SST) aircraft. He argued that SST would be prohibitively expensive, excessively noisy, and detrimental to both the environment and commercial airline operations, leading Congress to withdraw funding. The UK and France, however, pursued their own SST, the Concorde, but Dr. Gerwin’s predictions ultimately proved largely accurate, resulting in dwindling interest.

Conflict with the Military

Despite his modest appearance, Dr. Gerwin, with his slightly disheveled hair and gentle demeanor, became a legendary figure within the defense sector, crafting speeches and articles as well as testifying before lawmakers regarding what he described as the Pentagon’s misleading options.

Many of his disagreements with military bodies were long-standing and intense. These included disputes over the B-1 bomber, Trident nuclear submarines, the MX missile system, and the MX missile system—a network of mobile intercontinental ballistic missiles, notorious as one of history’s most lethal weaponry—all of which eventually formed part of America’s extensive arsenal.

Frustrated yet determined, Dr. Gerwin maintained his stance that America should uphold a strategic equilibrium with the Soviet Union and other nuclear powers. He argued against weapons policies that could jeopardize that balance, believing that Moscow cared more for the survival of its citizens than the loss of American lives.

Dr. Gerwin endorsed nuclear disarmament, including the 1979 Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT II), which was negotiated by President Carter and Soviet Premier Leonid Brezhnev. Nonetheless, he argued that mutually assured destruction remained essential for preserving peace.

In 2021, he joined 700 scientists and engineers, including 21 Nobel laureates, in an appeal to President Joseph R. Biden Jr. to commit that the United States would not initiate a nuclear strike in conflict. Their correspondence also advocated for the termination of the presidential authority to unilaterally order nuclear strikes, arguing that such limitations would safeguard against potential reckless decisions made by future presidents.

This notion was politically charged, and Biden did not follow through with such a commitment.

In a 1981 interview with Quest Magazine, Dr. Gerwin stated, “Nuclear weapons are consequential, and their power lies in the deterrent of massive destruction, which prevents nuclear confrontations.”

A Childhood with Curiosity

Richard Lawrence Gerwin was born on April 19, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, the elder of two sons to Robert and Leona (Schwartz) Gerwin. His father worked as an electronics instructor at a technical high school by day and at a film theater by night, while his mother was an attorney general. From a young age, Richard, affectionately known as Dick, exhibited remarkable intelligence and technical skills, having repaired household appliances by the age of five.

He and his brother Edward attended public schools in Cleveland. Dick graduated from Cleveland Heights High School in 1944 at the age of 16, and he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Physics in 1947 from what is now known as Case Western Reserve University.

In 1947, he married Lois Levy, who passed away in 2018. He is survived by two sons, Thomas and Jeffrey, a daughter, Laura, and five grandchildren, along with one great-grandson.

Under the mentorship of Fermi, Dr. Gerwin earned his master’s degree in 1948 and his doctorate in 1949, achieving the highest score in the university’s history on doctoral exams. He joined the faculty, but under Fermi’s influence, he also spent his summers at Los Alamos Lab, where he made his mark on the hydrogen bomb project.

After retiring in 1993, Dr. Gerwin chaired the State Department’s Arms Management and Non-Proliferation Advisory Committee until 2001. He served on the committee in 1998 to evaluate the ballistic missile threats to the United States.

Dr. Gerwin’s home in Scarsdale was in close proximity to the IBM Watson Lab, which relocated from Columbia University to Yorktown Heights, Westchester County, in 1970.

He held faculty appointments at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Cornell, and Columbia. Over his career, he secured 47 patents, authored over 500 research papers, and wrote significant books including “Nuclear Weapons and World Politics” (1977, co-authored with David C. Gompert and Michael Mandelbaum) and “Megawatts and Megatons: The Turning Points of the Nuclear Age” (2001, co-authored with Georges Charpak).

His life was chronicled in the biography “The True Genius: The Life and Work of Richard Gerwin, the Most Influential Scientist You’ve Never Heard Of” (2017) by Joel N. Sherkin.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gerwin was honored with numerous accolades, including the 2002 National Medal of Science, the highest award for scientific and engineering achievements in the U.S., presented by President George W. Bush, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President Barack Obama in 2016.

Obama praised him during a light-hearted introduction at the White House, stating, “He tinkered with his father’s film projector and never shied away from problems in need of solutions. From reconnaissance satellites to MRI, GPS technologies, and touchscreens—his fingerprints are everywhere. He even patented a shell washing machine.”

William J. Broad and Ash Wu contributed to this report.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump Administration Backs Certain PFA Restrictions While Repealing Others

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced its support for drinking water standards concerning two hazardous “forever chemicals” that impact tap water for millions of Americans. However, it indicated plans to extend the deadline for relaxing regulations on four additional related substances.

PFAS refers to a vast category of chemicals commonly found in daily products, including non-stick cookingware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant carpets, and fire-fighting foams.

Research shows that exposure to PFAS, or Polyfluoroalkyl substances, may lead to metabolic disorders, lower birth rates in women, developmental delays in children, and a heightened risk of certain cancers such as prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. As stated by the EPA.

President Joseph R. Biden Jr. is asking water providers for the first time to reduce the levels of six PFAS chemicals as close to zero as possible. He has imposed particularly stringent limits of four parts per 2 trillion units for two chemicals, known as PFOA and PFOS, which are frequently detected in drinking water systems.

The Trump administration endorsed these two PFAS regulations but allowed water providers to push back the deadline for compliance to 2031 by two additional years.

The EPA also announced the revocation of restrictions on four other chemicals.

“We are working to uphold national standards to safeguard Americans from harmful PFOAs and PFOS,” said EPA administrator Lee Zeldin in a statement. “At the same time, we aim to provide common-sense flexibility by allowing more time for compliance,” he added. “The EPA will continue utilizing regulatory and enforcement mechanisms to hold polluters accountable.”

Some efforts to relax PFAS regulations followed legal challenges from trade organizations and water providers connected to the chemical industry against the Biden administration’s restrictions.

These chemicals are so widespread that they can be detected in the blood of nearly every individual in the United States. Government studies have shown that PFAS chemicals are present in almost half of the country’s tap water.

In 2022, the EPA reported that these chemicals can cause harm at exposure levels “much lower than previously understood,” indicating that current exposure levels are nearly unsafe.

Under Biden-era regulations, water operators were mandated to monitor PFAS levels in the water supply. They also needed to inform the public and take action to lower contamination levels if they exceeded the prescribed limits: four parts for PFOA and PFOS, with 10 trillion parts for the other four chemicals.

These four chemicals include GenX, once deemed a safer alternative to PFOA, but now associated with liver, kidney, and immune system damage, along with developmental issues and cancer in animal studies. The other chemicals—PFHX, PFNA, and PFBS—are also linked to various negative health outcomes.

The agency intends to initiate a new rule-making process for these four chemicals in the fall, with plans to finalize new regulations by next spring.

The government’s initiative was first reported by the Washington Post.

Health and environmental advocates criticized these actions.

“We are committed to collaborating closely with our customers,” stated Emily Donovan, co-founder of Clean Cape Fear, an environmental organization focused on GenX and PFAS pollution in the Cape Fear River of North Carolina.

“This administration has promised voters to ‘make America healthy again,’ yet it seems inconsistent to rescind some PFAS drinking water standards,” she said. “This is disrespectful to communities affected by PFAS contamination who are suffering from severe health issues and losses.”

Eric D. Olson, Senior Strategy Director for Health at the Natural Resources Defense Council, remarked that the EPA’s approach offers “reassuring but conservative comfort.”

However, he also pointed out that the agency’s attempts to roll back drinking water standards contravene the no-backsliding provisions stipulated in the Safe Drinking Water Act.

“The law clearly states that the EPA cannot eliminate or undermine drinking water standards,” he emphasized. “This behavior is not only damaging but is also against the law.”

Industry groups that have filed lawsuits against the Biden administration’s PFAS rules, including the American Water Association, the American Chemical Council, and the National Manufacturers Association, did not provide immediate comments.

In a statement accompanying the EPA’s announcement, Alan Roberson, executive director of the Association of State Drinking Water Managers, expressed his support for the Trump administration’s framework. This association represents drinking water program managers across all 50 states.

Roberson noted that states and water systems are “struggling with tight timelines” under Biden-era regulations to test for PFAS and to establish the infrastructure needed to filter these chemicals from the water supply.

This announcement follows Zeldin’s recent disclosure of a series of initiatives to combat PFAS contamination.

The agency mentioned plans to create guidelines on the permissible PFAS discharge volumes from plants and to collaborate with Congress on how to hold polluters accountable.

Documents from the Trump administration highlighted strategies to transition away from paper straws, while also stressing the health dangers posed by PFAS.

Maintaining stringent regulations for PFOA and PFOS is expected to impose a significant financial burden on water operators. The EPA estimates compliance costs could reach approximately $1.5 billion annually, while utilities believe this figure could double, ultimately impacting the public through increased water bills.

James L. Ferraro, an environmental attorney representing several water companies, stated that while the Trump administration’s stance represents a middle ground, “one utility didn’t necessarily agree with it.”

The chemicals PFOA and PFOS, which are under strict EPA oversight, remain “the most frequently detected due to their widespread use over many years,” and pose an ongoing challenge for numerous utilities, he explained.

Many environmental organizations argue that the costs associated with cleaning up PFAS should ultimately be borne by the chemical manufacturers. They note that evidence indicating the risks of PFAS has been hidden by chemical companies for decades, as revealed by lawsuits, industry documents, and litigation. According to peer-reviewed research.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Discover the Unique Experience of Baroque Breakout Hit Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

MUCH reflects on the remarkable journey of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a standout role-playing game crafted by a small team. (We recently hit 2 million sales.) This narrative is captivating amidst a landscape dominated by blockbuster flops, live service titles, and exorbitant budgets. The dedicated team has produced something lengthy, unique, and beautiful, priced at £40, leading to a win-win scenario for all involved. However, it’s not entirely accurate.

Sandfall Interactive, the French studio behind the game, comprises around 30 talented individuals. As noted by Rock Paper Shotgun, the credits list more contributors, from Korean animation teams to outsourced quality assurance testers, localization specialists, and performance artists who bring the game’s narrative and emotional depth to life.

When compared to the massive teams behind Final Fantasy titles (the clear inspiration for Sandfall), the comparatively small collective that developed Clair Obscur is noteworthy. What’s even more intriguing is that this small team has fashioned an exquisite French creation that resonates with us all. To the distress of my partner, I opted for the French voice acting with English subtitles to amplify my immersive experience.

Set in the Belle Époque-inspired realm of Clair Obscur, players encounter a foreboding entity known as Paintress Daubs, who has traversed ominous totem numbers annually, descending from a population of 100. (This game and Neva are the only titles in recent memory that have brought tears to my eyes. The beginning.) As the game counts down from 34 to 33, a courageous, slightly magical 30th expedition embarks towards a continent laden with sedatives, facing death in their quest to halt the cycle. The city is stunning, and everyone is dressed immaculately. Also, nothing seemingly poses a threat every few moments.

The most quintessentially French experience you’ve ever had… Claire’s Obscur: Expedition 33. Photo: Sandfall Interactive

Many expeditions have previously faced this fate. As you navigate, you encounter gruesome remnants of these journeys, alongside their recorded accounts left to assist future travelers. Beginning in a ravaged Paris, the distorted Eiffel Tower looms over a picturesque Dali-esque horizon. The game feels like a waltz through a renowned museum on the brink of being engulfed by a black hole. One notable area is a desolate sea, featuring the wreck of a previous expedition, entwined with the carcass of a leviathan, adorned with waves of seaweed fluttering in the absent currents. It’s breathtaking but perilous. You must swiftly master a complex battle system and survive the initial boss encounters.

Clair Obscur’s combat draws inspiration from both classic and contemporary Japanese RPGs. Dynamic and vibrant, you can charge fireballs and time your dodges against the flailing fists of stone automatons. Combining uniquely distinctive character skills is vital. One character wields a rapier, shifting stances with every strike, while another engages with an enigmatic system of Sun and Moon Tarot cards. If this all seems excessively luxurious, it is — and I relish it. The battle menu is a Tinker’s dream, allowing for the development of esoteric powers and skills to create captivating combo attacks.

What captivates me most about this game is its uniqueness; it doesn’t mimic any other title. While most games riff on a handful of predictable franchises: Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Marvel, this game sources inspiration from an entirely different aesthetic and theme pool. It emerges as a Baroque fantasy, a tale encompassing existentialism, love, death, and heritage — articulated through a European narrative style with Japanese-inspired action and artistry. Although it plays differently, its peculiar characteristics evoke memories of last year’s outstanding title, Repantazio. (There seems to be a notable connection between intellectually ambitious RPGs and perplexing names.)

Clair Obscur further exemplifies the impressive capabilities of game development tools available today. If you’re curious how a small team achieved this high-end aesthetic, that constitutes a significant part of the explanation. It instills a sense of optimism regarding the future of mid-tier game development, nestled between blockbusters and indie projects. Many of the most intriguing titles emerged in the early 2000s and 2010s. Perhaps some larger publishers consider this approach to be overly French, but Sandfall has successfully produced it nonetheless. Expedition 33 serves not only as a noteworthy commercial triumph but also as a beacon of creativity in the gaming sphere.

What to play

Exciting, one-minute thrill…Fate: Dark Ages. Photo: Bethesda

The upcoming Doom game is generating buzz, with reviews indicating it’s a glorious heavy metal spectacle of violence. Whether you’re obliterating demons, impaling them with spikes, shredding them with chainsaw shields, or summoning massive hellish creatures from colossal robots, Destiny: Dark Ages boasts a vaguely medieval flair, with slower and more intimate combat relative to its predecessors in the franchise (as suggested by the title), yet remains exhilarating.

Available on: Xbox, PS5, PC
Estimated playtime: Over 20 hours

What to read

Chaos Machine…Grand Theft Auto VI. Photo: Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed until May next year and remains a mystery in the 2025 release calendar. Kotaku indicates some serious rescheduling is occurring behind the scenes leading up to the summer announcement.
The prestigious National Play Museum of America has announced four new games among its Hall of Fame: Defender, GoldenEye 007, Quake, and arguably suitable for Tanaka. They overcame the candidacy of Angry Birds from Age of Empires.
Podcasts and video collectives have sprung up following last week’s industry media drama, with A Giant Bomb becoming independent and contributing to the growing stability of games media outlets supported by worker-owned initiatives.

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What to click

Question block

“Read the book, Roubaix”… Elizabeth from Bioshock Infinite. Photo: 2K Game

Leader Travis submitted this week’s question:

“I’m considering launching a book club-style video game group. Two questions: what should I name it, and which games would you recommend for discussion?”

This is a fantastic idea, reminding me of an attempt I made ages ago as an IGN podcast, though I can’t recall its name. Was it “press the push”? “Save Points”? LFG? For such groups, I lean towards shorter games (so everyone can participate). I’d be thrilled to discuss Neva for its environmental themes and parenting narratives or Life is Strange for its rich, intricate storytelling with supernatural elements, or even a variety of games like While I’m Waiting, which prompted profound thoughts. This would surely be more engaging than merely debating whether Assassin’s Creed is relevant.

I asked my partner for his video game book club name suggestion, and he offered “Text Adventure.” My other friend Tom suggested “Mountain of Shame.” What do you think, reader? Any ideas?

If you have a question for the block or feedback on the newsletter, feel free to hit reply or email us at butingbuttons@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Fossils Indicate That Feathered Creatures Flew Like Chickens

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 1861, researchers found Archeopteryx, a feathered dinosaur, in 150-million-year-old limestone in Solnhofen, Germany. At that time, they were unaware that this fossilized skeleton—and subsequent finds—would provide critical evidence for evolutionary theory, demonstrating that birds indeed descended from dinosaurs.

“They’re maximizing their existence,” remarked Jinmai O’Connor, a paleontologist at Chicago’s open-air museums.

For more than 164 years, scientists have closely examined all available specimens. Thus, one might assume that such well-researched fossil species would yield no further surprises. However, a recent paper published in the journal Nature on Wednesday by Dr. O’Connor and his research team unveiled new details about soft tissues and skeletal structures from a newly identified specimen dubbed the Chicago Archeopteryx. Their findings could offer insights into short flights and clarify how feathered dinosaurs evolved to move from the ground.

Dr. O’Connor noted that for a long time, it has been challenging to understand the flight capabilities and environmental adaptations of Archeopteryx. Many specimens are flattened due to geological processes, which complicates the identification of key skeletal details. While earlier researchers and most modern experts agree the species likely achieved flight, certain anatomical features prompt paleontologists to seek additional data.

The latest specimens acquired by the Field Museum in 2022 and published in 2024 have enabled Dr. O’Connor’s team to begin addressing some of the anatomical uncertainties.

When the fossil arrived at the museum, it was not clearly visible. The specimen matched the color of the surrounding rocks, making most of the soft tissues difficult to discern, according to Dr. O’Connor.

Researchers illuminated the fossils using CT scans and created digital maps of the skeleton to aid in preparing the slab. They also employed special techniques; chemical treatments made soft tissues glow under UV light, helping the team avoid accidentally damaging feathers and skin textures while exposing bones. Such methods weren’t available to fossil preparers in the 1800s.

Unlike other specimens, the bones of the Chicago Archeopteryx are preserved in three dimensions, allowing Dr. O’Connor’s team to closely analyze the skull palate. This revealed the oldest signs of evolutionary trends toward the more flexible skulls of modern birds compared to their ancient counterparts, Dr. O’Connor explained.

In another stroke of fossilization luck, the wings of the specimen were detached from the body and “preserved in detail,” Dr. O’Connor noted. Upon closer examination, the team confirmed that instead of having the previously observed two layers of wing feathers, the Archaeopteryx actually boasts three. In modern birds, this third layer helps connect shorter forearms to the body, creating a continuous lifting surface critical for maintaining flight.

Dr. O’Connor noted that the structure of the wings stands in contrast to other feathered, non-avian dinosaurs, whose long wings remain rigid at the elbows, making them useful but ultimately ineffective for flight.

The absence of a sternum suggests these birds were likely less adept at flying. However, the toe pads found in the Chicago specimen provide additional evidence that these creatures were well-adapted for life on the ground, resembling a Jurassic-era chicken or road runner. They could achieve brief flights if necessary, but generally preferred to sprint.

The newly reported characteristics enhance the current understanding of Archeopteryx and directly support ongoing theories regarding the relationship between the species’ abilities and the origins of flight, according to Michael Pittman, a paleontologist from the University of Hong Kong who was not part of the study.

“This study truly underscores the importance of uncovering new fossils, even in well-known and thoroughly examined specimens,” he stated.

Dr. O’Connor concurred.

“This specimen will keep me engaged for years,” she remarked.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Chemists Uncover “Anchapis” That Enhances Chili Pepper Heat

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Piri Piri or African Bird’s Eye Chilli Peppers

Steidi/Alamy

Have you ever made your food too spicy? In the future, there might be “anti-spice” seasonings, inspired by compounds in chili peppers that could help mellow the heat.

The spiciness in chili peppers is due to a compound called capsaicinoids, which activate receptors in the mouth’s nerve fibers, sending signals to the brain that create a burning sensation similar to that of actual heat or painful injuries.

Chilean enthusiasts have developed a Scoville scale to measure the heat levels in various pepper strains based on capsaicinoid concentrations. However, some peppers do not always match their Scoville ratings accurately. To explore this, Devin Peterson from Ohio State University and his team employed liquid chromatography mass spectrometry to analyze the capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin levels in 10 different chili powders, including Chile de árbol, African bird’s eye, and Scottish bonnet peppers.

They then mixed these powders with tomato juice and presented it to a panel of tasters, ensuring each sample had equal amounts of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin, expected to yield a mild heat level of about 800 Scoville units.

However, the tasters perceived the heat levels differently among the 10 types of peppers. This led Peterson and his team to conduct further chemical analyses, revealing that three compounds—capsianoside I, balasoside, and ginger glycolipid A—were present in larger quantities. Interestingly, these compounds did not exhibit the expected heat intensity according to Scoville ratings. All three compounds contain glucosides and glucose.

A group of 37 tasters was then asked to evaluate two samples simultaneously. One sample contained these newly discovered compounds, while the other did not. The placement of each on different sides of the tongue was intended to counteract the burning sensation in the second taste test. The feedback indicated that these compounds reduced perceived heat strength by an average of 0.7 to 1.2 points on a 15-point scale.

“These compounds act as effective ‘anti-spicing’ agents,” Peterson notes. Although the exact mechanism remains unclear, it’s hypothesized that they could alter the nerve receptor responses in the mouth, thereby diminishing the burning sensations.

Understanding the nature of these anti-spice chemicals could enable growers to breed and genetically modify plants, nurturing varieties that produce both fiery and mild fruits.

Peterson believes that utilizing these compounds could lead to the development of consumer products that alleviate excessive heat in dishes, offering relief from intense pain by blocking nerve signals.

“When dining with kids, if the food is too spicy, it can be a deal-breaker,” Peterson says. “The idea of having a natural compound to dial down the heat could be quite intriguing.”

The research methodology, which involved half-tasting, was praised by Barry Smith from the University of London’s Advanced Research School, who added that the Scoville scale isn’t always the most accurate tool for measuring chili heat.

Smith speculates that the perceived intensity of cooling agents like menthol might similarly be diminished by such compounds, much like how capsaicinoids trigger a burning sensation.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Republican Proposal to Eliminate EV Tax Credits May Impact GM and Ford Negatively

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In recent years, the popularity of electric vehicles has surged, fueled by a $7,500 tax credit from the federal government aimed at making purchases more affordable.

However, the budget bill unveiled by House Republicans on Monday suggests eliminating this tax credit. This proposal also introduces new limitations on other tax incentives that motivate automakers to invest significant sums into establishing new battery facilities in the United States.

Starting next year, the legislation is set to abolish the $7,500 tax credit for new electric vehicle buyers, as well as a $4,000 credit applicable to used car and truck acquisitions.

If signed into law, these changes could lead to a spike in electric vehicle sales in the near term, as consumers rush to take advantage of tax credits before they vanish. Nonetheless, analysts predict that sales may drop or slow drastically once the credits are no longer available.

“This will undoubtedly slow down the adoption rate significantly,” remarked Stephanie Valdez Streaty, director of industry insights at Cox Automotive.

Cox anticipates that electric vehicles will comprise 10% of all new vehicle sales this year. If Congress does not alter the tax credit, that figure is expected to increase by nearly a third by 2030, according to their estimates.

However, if Congress eliminates the credits, Valdez Streaty projects that electric vehicles could make up only 20-24% of new car sales by 2030.

Eliminating these credits would further financially burden automakers who are already dealing with increased costs stemming from a 25% tariff on imported cars and auto parts established during the Trump administration.

The Republican tax proposals could adversely affect numerous automakers striving to launch new models, particularly General Motors and Ford, both of which have made substantial investments in their manufacturing facilities and supply chains with the goal of producing millions of electric vehicles annually.

GM has inaugurated two battery plants located in Ohio and Tennessee, developed through a joint venture with LG Energy Solution. Ford is currently constructing three battery plants, including one in Michigan, in collaboration with two South Korean firms, SK-ON, in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Both Detroit-based automakers are also investing in mining operations to secure domestic lithium supplies, which is crucial for battery production.

Tesla, the leading electric vehicle seller in the U.S., is also facing challenges. Its sales have decreased in recent months due to consumer backlash against CEO Elon Musk, associated with the Trump administration, coupled with the absence of a new affordable model.

However, Tesla enjoys several advantages. While most manufacturers still incur losses on electric vehicles, Tesla has been profitable for over a year, allowing the company to lower prices to stimulate demand if credits are eliminated. Additionally, Tesla relies less on imported components compared to other U.S. manufacturers.

Many large automakers are racing to catch up with Tesla in the electric vehicle landscape, particularly in states with a significant number of Republican lawmakers, by establishing numerous new factories.

Toyota has constructed a battery facility in North Carolina, while Hyundai is set to begin electric vehicle production at its Georgia site, which will also house battery manufacturing. Stellantis, along with its partners, is currently developing two battery plants in Indiana, with the local economies relying on the jobs these plants will create.

Should tax regulations undergo significant changes, automakers may reconsider, scale back, or postpone their plans.

“If the government wishes for the U.S. to effectively compete with China and the rest of the world in the expansive EV sector, as well as encourage GM and Ford to make considerable long-term investments in EV development and domestic production, we must enhance the tax credits instead of causing whiplash,” Valdez Streaty stated.

China dominates global electric vehicle production and is a primary supplier of essential materials for batteries and electric motors, such as processed lithium and rare earth minerals. The elimination of the tax credit would significantly hinder the U.S. automotive industry’s ability to keep pace.

“This could adversely impact our global standing and the competitive capabilities of the U.S. automotive sector,” Valdez Streaty remarked. “It’s likely to slow us down when we are already trailing China.”

Neither Ford nor Stellantis had comments to share, and neither did the policy group, the Automotive Innovation Alliance.

The federal government initially introduced $7,500 in credits during President Barack Obama’s administration, maintaining this incentive throughout President Trump’s first term. These credits were subsequently updated and expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act, enacted by President Joseph R. Biden Jr.

Given the higher costs of electric vehicles compared to traditional combustion engines, such credits have been vital in encouraging consumer purchases.

The credits are applicable to sports utility vehicles and pickups priced under $80,000, as well as sedans priced below $55,000. The vehicle must be assembled in North America, with the battery meeting specifications based on the country of origin for its materials. Additionally, to qualify, individual buyers must earn less than $150,000 per year, while joint filers must earn under $300,000.

Many of these criteria do not apply to leased vehicles. However, tax credits for cars and trucks are typically transferred to leasing companies, which are divisions of automakers. Many leasing firms have passed on their savings to customers, contributing to the notable increase in electric vehicle leases.

According to Valdez Streaty, approximately 595,000 electric vehicles were leased in 2024, a significant rise from roughly 96,000 in 2022, prior to the availability of leasing incentives.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Smart Devices Can Accurately Measure Breastfed Babies’ Intake

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Measuring the Amount of Breast Milk in Breastfeeding

Lebedinskaia Natalia/Getty Images

Parents may soon be able to monitor how much breast milk their baby consumes through devices that provide real-time notifications to their smartphones.

“The anxiety surrounding breastfeeding often stems from the uncertainty about how much milk a baby is receiving,” explains Daniel Robinson from Northwestern University, Illinois. “This can heighten stress for nursing mothers, parents, and healthcare professionals.” Insufficient nutrition can lead to slower weight gain in infants and, in severe cases, dehydration.

Clinicians typically evaluate breastfeeding effectiveness by comparing weights before and after feeds and monitoring diaper changes. However, these methods are somewhat cumbersome and imprecise, according to Robinson.

To create a more precise measurement system, he and his team engineered a device featuring four electrodes, each 4 cm wide, that attach to the breast away from the nipple. Two electrodes transmit a very low electrical current across the breast, while the other pair receives it.

This device relays recordings to a smartphone app, leveraging the weaker electrical signals produced as milk is released, enabling real-time calculations of milk volume, Robinson shares.

Researchers tested this system with breastfeeding mothers who expressed milk into a bottle for approximately 15 minutes. The device’s average milk collection was within 2 ml of the actual amount, as each participant expressed about 50 ml.

This innovation could allow parents to monitor their baby’s nutrition more effectively, potentially leading to timely adjustments such as supplementing with formula under medical guidance, Robinson notes.

The device consists of sticky electrodes that adhere to the breast

Northwestern University

In another trial, a woman used the device while nursing, and the app reported that her baby consumed 24 ml of milk. This closely matched the 20 ml estimation derived from traditional weight measurements taken before and after feeding, Robinson notes.

“A prevalent reason many mothers discontinue breastfeeding is the belief that their milk supply is inadequate, making this technology crucial for determining its accuracy,” states Mary Fewtrell from University College London.

However, to ensure the credibility of this device, further research is necessary to understand any potential impacts on milk production, long-term side effects, and whether parents find it desirable, observes Amy Brown from Swansea University, UK.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

OpenAI in Negotiations to Acquire Programming Tool Windsurf for $3 Billion

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

OpenAI is reportedly negotiating to acquire Windsurf, an AI-driven programming tool, for approximately $3 billion, according to two informed sources.

This acquisition could potentially draw in thousands of new customers from the tech sector, as it swiftly embraces tools like Windsurf, which enables instant code generation.

Should the deal go through, it would represent OpenAI’s largest acquisition to date, aiming to broaden its offerings beyond its well-known chatbot ChatGPT. Last year, OpenAI acquired Rockset, a startup aimed at assisting businesses in constructing the foundational elements of large-scale computer networks.

Windsurf, previously recognized as Codeum, was valued at $1.25 billion following a $150 million funding round led by the venture capital firm General Catalyst last year.

The agreement is not finalized yet, as the two anonymous sources indicated. Initial reports of discussions have surfaced previously on Bloomberg.

OpenAI currently offers technology that enables users to create their own code. In fact, Windsurf utilizes OpenAI technology or similar systems from firms like Google and Anthropic for code generation.

About four years ago, researchers from companies such as OpenAI and Google started developing systems to analyze extensive text data sourced from the Internet, including digital books, Wikipedia articles, and chat logs. By recognizing patterns within this content, these systems can generate text, including poetry and news articles.

What surprised many was that researchers were able to create their own programming code. Currently, developers use these systems to produce code and integrate it into large software projects with tools like Windsurf and Microsoft’s Copilot.

(Times has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its partner Microsoft, accusing them of copyright violation regarding AI Systems news content. Both OpenAI and Microsoft have denied these allegations.)

Developing technologies that enhance coding tools is incredibly costly for companies such as OpenAI, and startups face pressure to generate revenue.

OpenAI anticipates earning around $3.7 billion this year, according to financial documents reviewed by The New York Times. The company expects revenues to reach $11.6 billion next year.

In March, OpenAI concluded a $40 billion funding round, which valued the company at $300 billion, making it one of the most valuable private enterprises globally, alongside prominent players like TikTok parent company ByteDance and SpaceX. This funding round was led by Japan’s SoftBank.

However, scrutiny is placed on this transaction as OpenAI plans to revise its complex corporate structure, and failure to accomplish this by year-end could allow SoftBank to reduce its overall investment to $20 billion.

Source: www.nytimes.com

At LAX, the Uber Driver Waits. And Waits. And Waits.

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Early on a recent Tuesday morning, hundreds of Uber and Lyft drivers gathered outside Los Angeles International Airport, forming a line that wrapped around the block as dawn broke. The waiting began at 5am.

Shortly, the line of cars would make its way into a fenced parking area located a mile from the arrival terminal, officially known as the Transportation Network Company staging area. Drivers refer to it as a “pen,” waiting for passengers to disembark from their flights.

Once a lucrative spot for rides, this area now sees very few vehicles picking up fares. Veronica Hernandez, 50, parked her white Chevy Malibu at 5:26am and opened the Lyft app for her queue position: 156th. Nearly an hour and a half would pass before she got her first ride.

“Some days are great; others are not,” Hernandez said, scrolling through her app’s revenue report for the week: $205, $245, $179. “Fingers crossed for a good day.”

Like many drivers nationwide, Hernandez has experienced a noticeable decline in income in recent years, even as demand for rides appears higher than ever. Many gig workers have already ceased operations due to rising costs for gas and car insurance. These challenges, while less symbolic than LAX, reflect a tough environment for gig workers to thrive.

“This used to be a genuine way to earn a living,” Hernandez lamented. “Now, it barely keeps you afloat.”

In the early days of app-based services like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash, a flood of people signed on as drivers. The allure of earning money by driving at their own convenience captivated everyone from seasoned drivers seeking extra work to individuals escaping the 9-to-5 grind.

The premise was that drivers operate as independent contractors, bearing their own expenses without health insurance or other employee benefits while enjoying flexible hours without needing to sign up for shifts.

Initially, earnings were robust, with drivers frequently taking home substantial weekly incomes as Uber and Lyft prioritized growth over profitability, incurring billion-dollar losses. After going public, the focus shifted to profitability, resulting in reduced wages.

Today, many drivers are struggling, with total earnings lagging behind inflation. Last year, Uber drivers reported an average weekly revenue of $513, marking a 3.4% decrease from the previous year, despite working an average of over six minutes per trip, according to Gridwise, an app that helps drivers track their income. In Los Angeles, Uber’s average hourly profit margin has dropped by 21% since 2021, according to the same source.

In 2019, LAX implemented a new system to alleviate heavy traffic at the arrivals terminal. Instead of curbside pickups by Uber and Lyft drivers, passengers must walk up to 20 minutes to designated pick-up points near Terminal 1. Unfortunately, this change often goes unnoticed by passengers.

That morning, the atmosphere was grim, marked by the odor of port-a-potties and vehicles parked for hours. Drivers awaited “unicorn” rides, which would pay a reasonable rate of over $1.50 per mile.

By 10am, chaos engulfed the pen. Around 300 drivers were in a virtual queue vying for approximately 200 available spots in the parking lot. Consequently, new arrivals often had to leave the lot to pick up passengers, resulting in blocked cars and the sound of shouting competing with the growl of jets flying overhead every two minutes.

Sergio Avedan, a gig driver and founder of Ride Hailing Blog The ride-sharing man, settled into the pen at 10:36am on that Tuesday. After reaching the parking lot, he checked his queue position: 256th.

When he glanced at the Uber and Lyft apps, rides appeared but were often rejected by other drivers ahead of him. The payouts were dismal: $9.87 for a 13-mile trip, $19.97 for a 25-mile trip. He turned them all down.

“We call this ‘reclining with decency’,” Avedan remarked as he reclined his seat back.

To pass the time, some drivers smoked or played cards, while others napped in their vehicles or watched YouTube videos. Many scoured for phone chargers and cleaning supplies for their cars, leading to occasional tension among different groups as competition for rides intensified, sometimes splitting along racial lines.

An alternate economy flourishes within the pen to support the drivers. Outside the parking area, a taco truck offers food, while inside, some venders sell homemade Chinese cuisine from their car trunks, exchanging bowls of wonton soup for cash.

Frustrations have led some drivers to express their anger by scribbling messages on the walls of the port-a-potties, blaming Uber and its executives for their plummeting earnings, especially after being unexpectedly locked out of their accounts.

Rif Andrius, who sat in the back of his Toyota Sienna, refreshed the Uber app while smoking. The 57-year-old Iranian driver reported earning around $3,000 weekly before Uber’s operational costs surged during the pandemic, but that figure has sharply declined. Checking his latest weekly earnings, he saw amounts of $1,670, $1,700, and $1,053.

“I’ve got to provide for my family,” said Andrius, who has a wife and daughter. “Now, I can’t manage it.”

The New York Times reached out to Uber regarding the operating conditions at LAX in 2023, to which the company acknowledged the ongoing challenges. Yet, little has changed since that inquiry.

Uber stated that multiple factors are influencing the decline in earnings. In Los Angeles, the percentage of fares retained by the company hasn’t increased, while liability insurance costs have soared, currently making up 43% of rider fares, per the company’s data.

The company also indicated that ride demand at the airport has significantly decreased amid the introduction of a new $4 surcharge for LAX drivers.

LAX’s public relations department did not respond to our requests for comments.

Lyft spokesperson CJ Macklin mentioned that discussions are ongoing with LAX to create a new holding lot for ride-share drivers as part of the airport’s $5.5 billion renovation plan, which includes light rail connections between terminals aimed at alleviating traffic.

“In a year, LAX will look entirely different. I’m looking forward to providing smoother and faster experiences for drivers, riders, and the whole city,” stated Uber spokesperson Meghan Casserly.

However, many drivers felt weighed down by the current system. Even when a seemingly decent ride request came through, the frustration of waiting hours tended to sap their motivation.

“There are drivers who are entirely unaware of what they’re doing. They get passengers and say they’re going to take them somewhere, but they don’t even know the details,” lamented Pablo Gomez, an Uber driver who regularly works at LAX. “They drop passengers off and just go along with the flow without a clue as to why.”

Drivers like Avedan and Gomez are investing time to mentor their peers, sharing strategies to optimize earnings. Nevertheless, Gomez empathizes with those who continually chase elusive fares, comparing it to gambling.

“Wasting time feeds into an addict’s mentality. You’re forever chasing that ride, hoping for a big win,” he admitted.

As the pen closed at 2am, some drivers began searching for parking in surrounding neighborhoods, preparing to sleep in their cars until the lot reopened at 5am.

At 11pm Tuesday, Hernandez was perched on the hood of a car when ride requests dribbled in. She noted offers popping up on her phone tagged for two passengers ages 25 and 26. In the gaps between rides, she anxiously scanned her emails, hoping for responses regarding job applications submitted to a doctor’s office and a warehouse.

Eventually, a ride came through that would take her near her home in Montebello, a 50-minute drive east. Although the fare was only $28 for a 27-mile trip—far from the ideal “unicorn” ride she was after—she accepted it.

“It’s not the best rate,” she acknowledged. “But you need to make it worthwhile.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Life-Threatening Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tasha Hedges used Xanax for two decades to manage her anxiety and panic attacks, following her psychiatrist’s recommendations. However, in 2022, her doctor passed away unexpectedly.

Although the general practitioner continued the prescription, he retired shortly thereafter. The next physician moved to Canada, leaving Hedges to eventually find another psychiatrist.

“The first thing he did was yell at me for being on Xanax for too long,” she recounted from W.Va.

Typically, discontinuing the medication requires a gradual reduction of dosage over several months or years, referred to as tapering. However, Hedges stopped abruptly, facing severe withdrawal symptoms such as hot flashes, cold sweats, restlessness, shaking, and teeth grinding.

“It was a nightmare,” she described. Two years after ceasing the medication, she still grapples with repercussions. “My brain wasn’t the same.”

Online support groups and platforms like Benzobuddies indicate that individuals like Hedges are physically dependent on benzodiazepines. Many encounter serious and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms when their medication is abruptly ceased or tapered too quickly, leading to extended periods without treatment. Some healthcare providers hesitate to prescribe these medications due to associated risks and stigma.

“They’re often seen as highly addictive,” noted Ronald M. Winchell, a clinical psychiatry professor at Columbia University, who posed several questions to consider: “Would I initiate this treatment? Is it appropriate? Is it safe? Could my patients misuse it? What do my peers think?”

Prescriptions for benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin have declined since 2016 due to provider concerns. Nonetheless, these medications remain quick and effective solutions, often being among the most prescribed in the country for anxiety and sleep disorders. In 2019, around 92 million benzodiazepine prescriptions were issued in the U.S., according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Current guidelines advise prescribers to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration, typically less than four weeks. However, many patients remain on these medications for longer periods. An FDA review in 2018 indicated that approximately half of patients had used the drugs for over two months. Dr. Edward K. Silverman, a professor emeritus of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine, highlighted that some patients stay on these medications without regular consultations.

Patients can develop physical dependence within weeks of stable benzodiazepine use. Stopping the medication, even after a brief period, necessitates a carefully managed process. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers lack adequate training in tapering prescriptions. To clarify the process, an expert from the American Society of Addiction Medicine released new guidelines in March for dosage reduction developed with FDA funding.

“It’s absolutely reckless to force people into rapid tapering,” Dr. Silverman stated.

Jodie Jerlow, 60, began using Klonopin for insomnia 25 years ago while in Dallas. After her psychiatrist retired for health reasons, she found another doctor who recommended two additional benzodiazepines, Xanax and Ativan, while working towards withdrawing from Klonopin.

After about six months on all three medications, Jerlow grew frustrated and decided to take matters into her own hands. She successfully tapered off Klonopin and Xanax.

She is still working to discontinue Ativan with assistance from her general practitioner and a coach at the nonprofit Benzodiazepine Information Coalition.

Initially, Jerlow noted she tapered too quickly, experiencing headaches, nausea, and agoraphobia. However, one of the most distressing withdrawal symptoms was suicidal ideation.

“It felt like background noise. ‘It’s going to be easy,’” she recalled.

These were feelings she had never encountered before reducing her medication.

In 2023, advocates for those harmed by benzodiazepines reported various long-term symptoms that may arise during use, tapering, or discontinuation, including benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction or binding.

While not everyone experiences binding, experts agree that with a well-planned tapering strategy, side effects can be lessened.

Dr. Carl Zalzman, a psychiatry professor at Harvard Medical School and former president of the American Psychiatry Association’s Benzodiazepine Task Force, commented on the issue.

Despite their existence since the 1960s, many healthcare providers are still at a loss regarding how to help patients discontinue these medications effectively. There is no one-size-fits-all tapering strategy. Some patients experience withdrawal symptoms, and others require continued access to medications while tapering slow.

Dr. Silverman recalled a patient who had to meticulously slice pills with a razor blade to gradually decrease dosage and mitigate severe side effects.

The new guidelines from ASAM, which address the limited studies available on effective tapering, mainly rely on clinical experience. They advise clinicians to review the risks and benefits of benzodiazepine prescriptions at least every three months, recommending a dosage reduction of 5-10% every 2-4 weeks. The guidelines stress that long-term users may need to taper for over a year and should be monitored post-discontinuation.

“Most of us were never informed of the potential for dependency and long-term complications,” said De Foster, an advocate for those suffering from benzodiazepine complications, who contributed to the new guidelines. He emphasized, “A slow taper can be challenging, but a sudden withdrawal is perilous.”

ASAM’s guidance came too late for Ratasha Marberry, 49, a New York resident who became physically dependent on Klonopin. In 2022, she entered an addiction detox center, desperate to stop the medication she had been prescribed for insomnia. The facility’s provider took her off the medication in just five days.

She shared that it felt like collapsing as she faced nights filled with turmoil akin to “a lion in the room that you can’t see but are fighting against.” She later visited another facility in Florida where she was prescribed antidepressants. Within weeks, she began to feel a significant improvement.

Now she states, “I’m sleeping like a strange baby.”

She reflects, “Should I have been prescribed this drug for an extended period rather than a benzodiazepine?”

“When I think back to my experiences, I cry,” she confessed. “It wasn’t physical pain, but rather emotional suffering. I’m thankful to be alive.”

If you are in crisis or contemplating suicide, reach out to 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline; visit Speaking of Suicide for additional resources.

Source: www.nytimes.com

University Professors Utilize ChatGPT, Sparking Student Discontent

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In February, Ella Stapleton, a senior at Northeastern University, was going over her notes from an organizational behavior class when she stumbled upon something unusual. Was that a ChatGPT question from her professor?

Within a document created by her business professor for a leadership model lesson, she noticed instructions to chat “Expand all areas. More in depth and concrete.” Following these instructions was a list of leadership traits, both positive and negative, complete with definitions and bullet points.

Stapleton texted a classmate.

“Did you see the notes he uploaded to Canvas?” she asked, referring to the university’s software for course materials. “He created it using ChatGPT.”

“OMG STOP,” her classmate responded. “What’s going on?”

Curious, Stapleton began to investigate. She went through the professor’s slides and discovered more signs of AI involvement: inconsistencies in the text, skewed images, and glaring mistakes.

She was frustrated. Given the school’s tuition and reputation, she expected a high-quality education. This course was crucial for her business major. The syllabus clearly prohibited “academic fraudulent activities,” including the misuse of AI and chatbots.

“He tells us not to use it, yet he uses it himself,” she remarked.

Stapleton lodged a formal complaint with Northeastern’s business school, citing the inappropriate use of AI and other concerns about teaching methods, demanding a refund of the tuition for that class, which was over $8,000—about a quarter of her semester’s total.

When ChatGPT launched in late 2022, it created a whirlwind of concern across educational institutions It’s incredibly easy. Students tasked with writing essays could easily let the tool handle it in mere seconds. Some institutions banned it, while others introduced AI detection services, despite concerns about their accuracy.

However, the tide has turned. Nowadays, students are scrutinizing professors for their heavy reliance on AI, voicing complaints on platforms that analyze course content, using terms like “ChatGPT is” essential” and “algorithmic.” They call out hypocrisy and make financial arguments, insisting they deserve instruction from humans—not algorithms they can access for free.

On the other side, professors have claimed they use AI chatbots as a means to enhance education. An instructor interviewed by The New York Times stated that the chatbot streamlined their workload and acted as an automated teaching assistant.

The number of educators using these tools is on the rise. In a National Survey conducted last year, 18% of over 1,800 higher education instructors identified as frequent users of generative AI tools. This year’s follow-up surveys have nearly doubled that figure, according to Tyton Partners, the consultancy behind the study. AI companies are eager to facilitate this shift, with startups like OpenAI and Anthropic recently releasing enterprise versions of chatbots designed specifically for educational institutions.

(The Times is suing OpenAI for copyright infringement, as the company allegedly used news content without permission.)

Generative AI is clearly here to stay, yet universities are grappling with adapting to evolving standards. Professors are navigating this learning curve and, like Stapleton’s instructor, often misinterpret the risks of technology and student negligence.

Make a grade

Last fall, 22-year-old Marie submitted a three-page essay for her online anthropology course at Southern New Hampshire University. Upon checking her grades on the school’s platform, she was pleased to see an A. However, in the comments, her professor made multiple references to using ChatGPT, which included a grading rubric meant for chatbots and a request for “great feedback” for Marie.

“To me, it felt like the professor didn’t even read my work,” Marie shared, asking to remain anonymous. She noted that the temptation to lean on AI in academia was like having a “third job” for many instructors managing numerous students.

Marie confronted her professor during a Zoom meeting about this issue. The professor claimed that they had read her essays but used ChatGPT as an approved guide.

Robert McAuslan, Vice President of AI at Southern New Hampshire, expressed that schools should embrace AI’s potential to revolutionize education, emphasizing guidelines for faculty and students to “ensure this technology enhances creativity rather than replaces it.” A do’s and don’ts were recommended to encourage authentic, human-focused feedback among teachers utilizing tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly.

“These tools should not replace the work,” Dr. McAuslan stated. “Instead, they should enhance an already established process.”

After encountering a second professor who also appeared to provide AI-generated feedback, Marie opted to transfer to another university.

Paul Schoblin, an English professor at Ohio University in Athens, empathized with her frustration. “I’m not a huge fan of that,” Dr. Schoblin remarked after hearing about Marie’s experience. He also holds a position as an AI Faculty Fellow, tasked with developing effective strategies to integrate AI in teaching and learning.

“The real value you add as an educator comes from the feedback you provide to your students,” he noted. “It’s the personal connection we foster with our students, as they are directly impacted by our words.“

Though advocating for the responsible integration of AI in education, Dr. Schoblin asserted that it shouldn’t merely simplify instructors’ lives. Students must learn to utilize technology ethically and responsibly. “If mistakes happen, the repercussions could lead to job loss,” he warned.

He cited a recent incident where a Vanderbilt University School of Education official responded to a mass shooting at another university. An email sent to students emphasized community bonds. However, a sentence disclosed that ChatGPT was used to compose it. Students criticized the outsourcing of empathy, prompting involved parties to temporarily resign.

However, not all situations are straightforward. Dr. Schoblin remarked that establishing reasonable rules is challenging, as acceptable AI usage can differ based on the subject. His department’s Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment has instead emphasized principles regarding the integration of AI, specifically eschewing a “one-size-fits-all” algorithm.

The Times reached out to numerous professors whose students had noted AI usage in online reviews. Some instructors admitted to using ChatGPT to create quizzes for computer science programming assignments, even as students reported that these quizzes didn’t always make sense. They also used it for organizing feedback or to make it more positive. As experts in their fields, they noted instances of AI “hallucinations,” where false information was generated.

There was no consensus among them on what practices were acceptable. Some educators utilized ChatGPT to assist students in reflecting on their work, while others denounced such practices. Some stressed the importance of maintaining transparency with students regarding generative AI use, while others opted to conceal their usage due to student wariness about technology.

Nevertheless, most felt that Stapleton’s experience at Northeastern—where her professor appeared to use AI for generating class notes and slides—was unjustifiable. That was Dr. Schoblin’s view, provided the professor edited the AI outputs to fit his expertise. He likened it to the longstanding practice in academia of utilizing content from third-party publishers, such as lesson plans and case studies.

Professors using AI for slide generation are considered “some sort of monsters.” “It’s absurd to me,” he remarked.

Steroid calculator

Christopher Kwaramba, a business professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, referred to ChatGPT as a time-saving partner. He mentioned that lesson plans that once required days to create could now be completed in mere hours. He employs it to generate datasets for fictional retail chains used in exercises designed to help students grasp various statistical concepts.

“I see it as the age of steroid calculators,” Dr. Kwaramba stated.

Dr. Kwaramba noted that support hours for students are increasing.

Conversely, other professors, such as Harvard’s David Malan, reported that AI diminished student attendance during office hours. Dr. Malan, a computer science professor, integrated a custom AI chatbot into his popular introductory programming course, allowing hundreds of students access for assistance with coding assignments.

Dr. Malan had to refine his approach to ensure that chatbots only offer guidance, not complete answers. Most of the 500 students surveyed in 2023 found the resource beneficial, particularly in its inaugural year.

By freeing up common inquiries about referral materials during office hours, Dr. Malan and his teaching assistant can now focus on meaningful interactions with students, like weekly lunches and hackathons. “These are more memorable moments and experiences,” Dr. Malan reflected.

Katy Pearce, a communications professor at the University of Washington, developed a tailored AI chatbot trained on prior assignments she assessed, enabling students to receive feedback on their writing mimicking her style at any hour, day or night. This is particularly advantageous for those hesitant to seek help.

“Can we foresee a future where many graduate teaching assistants might be replaced by AI?” she pondered. “Yes, absolutely.”

What implications would this have on the future pipeline for professors emerging from the Teaching Assistant ranks?

“That will undoubtedly pose a challenge,” Dr. Pearce concluded.

The moment you are taught

After filing her complaint with Northeastern, Stapleton participated in several meetings with business school officials. In May, the day after graduation, she learned that her tuition reimbursement wouldn’t be granted.

Her professor, Rick Arrowwood, expressed regret about the incident. Dr. Arrowwood, an adjunct with nearly two decades of teaching experience, spoke about using class materials, claiming that AI tools provided a “fresh perspective” on ChatGPT, search engine confusion, and presentation generators labeled Gamma. Initially, he mentioned that the outputs appeared impressive.

“In hindsight, I wish I had paid closer attention,” he commented.

While he shared materials online with students, he clarified that he had not used them during class sessions, only recognizing the errors when school officials inquired about them.

This awkward episode prompted him to understand that faculty members must be more cautious with AI and be transparent with students about its usage. Northeastern recently established an official AI policy that mandates attribution every time an AI system is employed and requires a review of output for “accuracy and quality.” A Northeastern spokesperson stated that the institution aims to “embrace the use of artificial intelligence to enhance all facets of education, research, and operations.”

“I cover everything,” Dr. Arrowwood asserted. “If my experience can serve as a learning opportunity for others, then that’s my happy place.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Study Finds Men More Prone to “Hard Heart Syndrome” Mortality

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Following traumatic experiences, such as a divorce or the loss of a loved one, individuals may encounter symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.

This phenomenon, clinically termed takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is believed to arise from emotional or physical stress that triggers a surge of hormones, including adrenaline, which hampers the heart’s ability to contract effectively. While most individuals recover swiftly, a minority may face heart failure.

Wounded heart syndrome predominantly affects women; however, men have a mortality rate that is more than double that of women. A study published recently in the Journal of the American Heart Association highlights this disparity.

The research examined data from around 200,000 adults in the U.S. who were hospitalized for this condition between 2016 and 2020. It found that nearly 11% of men in this group died, compared to about 5% of women. This was supported by previous studies indicating a higher mortality rate among men.

“It’s consistently noted that men generally do not experience takotsubo syndrome as frequently, but when they do, the outcomes tend to be worse,” explained Dr. Harmony Reynolds, director of NYU Langone Health’s Center for Women’s Cardiovascular Research, who was not part of the study.

The differences between men and women could be tied to the triggers of their conditions, according to the cardiologist. In men, the syndrome is often instigated by physical stressors like surgery or stroke, whereas in women, the triggers tend to be emotional, such as job loss or the death of a loved one.

“Individuals facing emotional stressors tend to fare better,” noted Dr. Iran Wittstein, a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine who was not involved in the study.

“Men appear to have a higher risk of severe outcomes or mortality, suggesting that a more dangerous trigger is necessary for syndrome onset.”

Dr. Mohammad Movahed, the principal investigator of the study, added that men may also struggle more with recovery from takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Research indicates lower social support for men to help them cope with stress.

“If the stressor is transient and then removed, there could still be damage to the heart or diminished recovery chances,” Movahed, a cardiologist at the University of Arizona Sarver Heart Center, explained.

However, scientists continue to explore the underlying mechanisms of the syndrome and why fatalities occur in rare instances.

“Researchers are still pursuing to uncover the definitive causes of this condition,” Wittstein remarked.

Is stress the only trigger?

To diagnose takotsubo cardiomyopathy, physicians look for certain hallmark signs. Typically, in affected patients, parts of the heart muscle balloon out, but there are usually no blocked arteries, which would indicate a heart attack. Most patients can also identify stressors that led to their episodes.

“During these moments, we feel the weight on our hearts,” stated Dr. Matthew Tomey, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai St. Luke’s Hospital in New York City. “It’s as if heartache manifests physically.”

However, Wittstein cautioned that stress alone may not suffice to trigger takotsubo syndrome.

“Some individuals might have minor work-related frustrations, engage in a slightly intense jog, or experience irritation at a red light,” he described.

Reynolds shared that one of her patients had four instances of the syndrome, each stemming from a mild stomach bug that caused vomiting.

“She is quite averse to vomiting, which likely contributed to her incidents,” she noted.

Wittstein now posits that certain individuals may harbor an inherent sensitivity to takotsubo syndrome. His findings suggest that stress hormones narrow small blood vessels around the heart, limiting blood flow and making some individuals, especially those with high blood pressure or cholesterol, more vulnerable.

Research indicates that postmenopausal women are at an elevated risk of developing this syndrome, potentially due to decreased estrogen levels, which facilitate the dilation of small blood vessels around the heart.

However, Reynolds emphasized that further research is needed to fully understand these mechanisms.

“There’s a suggestion that sex hormones may play a role, but establishing that link is still an ongoing challenge,” she said.

It’s complex to manage and prevent

The intricate nature of takotsubo cardiomyopathy can complicate its prevention and treatment.

Doctors often seek ways to alleviate stress, sometimes prescribing medications intended for other heart conditions, such as beta blockers, or recommending meditation and mental health support.

“To date, we have not identified any preventive drugs that effectively reduce complications, mortality rates, or specific therapies,” Movahed stated.

The new study found that mortality rates associated with takotsubo syndrome remained relatively stable from 2016 to 2020.

However, Wittstein noted that the study relies on diagnostic codes assigned to hospitalized patients, which might overlook broader circumstances influencing a patient’s death, particularly regarding strokes or other neurological issues.

“I suspect many individuals recover from takotsubo syndrome but subsequently succumb to other complications,” he remarked.

The cardiologist advises patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest pain or shortness of breath, rather than attributing it solely to stress.

“Only through a comprehensive evaluation at the hospital can we differentiate between this condition and a traditional heart attack,” Reynolds cautioned. “Thus, it’s critical not to ignore chest pain.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

AI is Joining the Radiology Workforce: Efficiency Gains Observed So Far.

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nine years ago, a prominent artificial intelligence scientist picked an at-risk profession.

“Individuals should stop pursuing a career as a radiologist now,” stated Jeffrey Hinton, asserting that AI would undoubtedly surpass human performance in this area within five years.

Currently, radiologists—medical imaging specialists diagnosing and treating diseases—are still in significant demand. Recent studies indicate a steady workforce growth projected by the American College of Radiation until 2055.

Dr. Hinton, who earned a Nobel Prize in physics for his groundbreaking AI research last year, has indeed had a monumental influence on technology.

This is evident at Mayo Clinic, one of the nation’s premier healthcare systems, with its primary campus located in Rochester, Minnesota. In recent years, Mayo Clinic has embraced AI technology to analyze images, automate everyday tasks, detect medical issues, and forecast diseases. AI also acts as a “second opinion.”

“But will it replace radiologists? We don’t believe so,” said Dr. Matthew Colestrom, chairman of radiology at Mayo Clinic. “We understand how challenging this work is and its interrelations.”

Computer scientists, industry experts, and policymakers have long debated the future of AI in the workforce. Will it serve as a smart assistant, enhance human performance, or be a robotic agent that displaces millions of workers?

The conversation intensifies as the cutting-edge technology behind chatbots appears to be advancing more quickly than anticipated. Leaders from companies like OpenAI and others forecast that AI will automate most cognitive tasks within a few years. Conversely, numerous researchers predict a more gradual transformation, akin to the introduction of electricity and the Internet, consistent with historical technological disruptions.

The potential obsolescence of radiologists serves as an illustrative example. Thus far, AI has proven to be a robust medical asset that enhances efficiency and augments human abilities, rather than replacing them.

Radiology has been a primary focus in the development and implementation of AI in healthcare. Of the more than 1,000 AI applications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for medical purposes, approximately 75% pertain to radiology. AI excels in identifying and assessing specific abnormalities, such as lung lesions and breast tumors.

“While there have been remarkable advancements, these AI tools mainly focus on general cases,” remarked Dr. Charles E. Kern Jr., a radiology professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and editor of the journal. Radiology: Artificial Intelligence.

Radiologists do much more than merely examine images. They provide consultations to other physicians and surgeons, engage with patients, compile reports, and scrutinize medical histories. After detecting potential tissue anomalies, they interpret the implications for individual patients based on their unique medical backgrounds, drawing from years of expertise.

David Ortl, a labor economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, stated that AI “underestimates the intricacy of work performed by humans.”

At Mayo Clinic, AI tools are being researched, developed, and customized to align with the hectic schedules of physicians. Since Dr. Hinton’s prediction, the radiology staff has expanded by 55%, now exceeding 400 radiologists.

Prompted by concerns and advancements in AI-related image recognition in 2016, radiology leaders assembled a team to evaluate the potential effects of the technology.

“Our initial thought was to leverage this technology for our betterment,” recalled Dr. Callstrom. “That was our primary objective.”

A decision was made to invest. Today, the Department of Radiology boasts a 40-member AI team, featuring AI scientists, radiation researchers, data analysts, and software engineers. They have created a diverse suite of AI tools, from tissue analysis instruments to disease prediction models.

The team collaborates with specialists like Dr. Theodora Pototzke, who focuses on the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. She regards the radiologist’s role as that of a “secondary physician,” clearly conveying imaging findings and providing guidance.

Dr. Pototzke employs AI tools to gauge kidney volume. Growth in the kidneys, when coupled with cysts, can signal a decline in function even before changes are detectable in blood tests. Previously, she measured kidney volume mainly by hand, akin to using an on-screen ruler, resulting in variable outcomes and lengthy processes.

Serving as a consultant, end user, and tester for the department’s AI team, Dr. Pototzke assisted in designing software with color coding for various conditions and evaluating measurements.

Now, she can simply retrieve an image on a computer, click an icon, and instantly see the kidney volume measurements. This saves her 15-30 minutes with each kidney scan and consistently yields accurate results.

“This is a fantastic example of effectively utilizing AI for increased efficiency and accuracy,” Dr. Pototzke commented. “AI can augment, enhance, and quantify processes, but I am not in a position to relinquish interpretative duties regarding technology.”

In the hall, staff radiologist Dr. Francis Buffer elaborated on the various AI applications prevalent in the field, often operating behind the scenes. He stated that manufacturers of MRI and CT scanners incorporate AI algorithms to expedite image acquisition and enhance quality.

AI also autonomously identifies images with the highest likelihood of abnormal findings, effectively informing the radiologist, “focus here first.” Another application scans for heart or lung clots, even when the medical emphasis lies elsewhere.

“AI is currently integrated throughout our workflow,” noted Dr. Buffer.

In total, Mayo Clinic implements over 250 AI models, both developed in-house and sourced from vendors. The Radiology and Heart Disease divisions are the largest consumers of these technologies.

In some circumstances, emergent technologies unveil insights surpassing human capabilities. One AI model analyzes ECG data to forecast patients likely to develop cardiac fibrillation.

Research initiatives in radiology utilize AI algorithms to detect subtle transformations in pancreatic shape and texture, potentially identifying cancers up to two years before conventional diagnoses. The Mayo Clinic team is collaborating with other healthcare organizations to further validate these algorithms with more data.

“Mathematical modeling enables us to perceive what the human eye cannot,” mentioned Dr. John Haramka, president of the Mayo Clinic Platform, overseeing the digital initiatives of the health system.

Dr. Halamka, an advocate for AI, is confident that this technology will revolutionize medicine.

“In five years, failing to use AI will be considered a form of medical malpractice,” he suggested. “However, this means that humans and AI will collaborate closely.”

Dr. Hinton concurs. Reflecting on his previous statements, he believes he was overly broad in 2016, clarifying that his remarks were solely about image analysis, and while he may have misjudged the timeline, he maintains his original stance.

Over the years, most medical imaging interpretations are made through a partnership between AI and radiologists, which not only enhances accuracy but also significantly increases radiologists’ efficiency, according to Dr. Hinton.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Scientists Reveal That Objects in Our Universe Dissipate Faster Than Previously Believed

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A 2023 study by Professor Haino Falk and his team at Ladbou University revealed that not just black holes, but all cosmic entities can “evaporate” through a mechanism akin to Hawking radiation. Following the publication, the researchers were inundated with inquiries regarding the duration of this process. Their latest findings estimate that the universe’s conclusion is approximately 10⁷⁸ years away. If only radiation, similar to Hawking radiation, is taken into account, the timeline shortens to just a few years. This represents the time required for a white dwarf—the most stable astronomical object—to collapse through a Hawking-like radiation process. Previous research, which overlooked this effect, had estimated the lifespan of white dwarfs to be around 10¹¹⁰⁰ years.

An artistic depiction of neutron stars undergoing gradual ‘evaporation’ through Hawking-like radiation. Image credits: Daniëlle Futselaar/Artsource.nl.

“Thus, the ultimate conclusion of the universe will arrive significantly sooner than anticipated; however, rest assured, it will still take an incredibly long time,” noted Professor Falk.

In 1975, physicist Stephen Hawking proposed that particles and radiation could escape black holes, challenging the conventional framework of relativity.

Near the edge of a black hole, two transient particles emerge; one gets drawn into the black hole while the other successfully escapes.

A notable outcome of Hawking radiation is the gradual disintegration of black holes into particles and radiation.

This finding stands in opposition to Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity.

Professor Falk and his co-authors determined that the process of Hawking radiation applies to various objects with theoretically significant gravitational fields.

Their further calculations indicated that the “evaporation time” for an object is contingent entirely upon its density.

Surprisingly, neutron stars and stellar black holes have an identical decay time of 10⁶⁷ years.

This result was unexpected, given that black holes possess a more intense gravitational field.

“However, black holes lack a surface,” remarked Dr. Michael Wandrack, a postdoctoral researcher at Radboud University.

“They reabsorb parts of their own radiation, which inhibits the process.”

“We also explored how long it would take for humans and the moon to evaporate via Hawking-like radiation: about 10⁹⁰ years,” the researcher added.

“Naturally, other mechanisms could lead to faster disappearance for humans and the moon.”

“This research exemplifies an exciting interdisciplinary collaboration, merging astrophysics, quantum physics, and mathematics to yield new insights,” stated Professor Walter Van Suisilecom from Radboud University.

“By pursuing these inquiries and examining extreme scenarios, we aim to enhance our understanding of the theory. Hopefully, one day, we will unravel the enigma surrounding Hawking radiation.”

The new paper is set to be published in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics.

____

Haino Falke et al. 2025. The lifetime limit of the star remnants from gravity pair generation. jcap in press; Arxiv: 2410.14734

Source: www.sci.news

UK Government Unveils AI Tools to Accelerate Public Consultations

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

For the first time, AI tools are being utilized to evaluate public feedback on government consultations, with plans for broader adoption to help conserve money and staff resources.

The tool, referred to as “consultation,” was initially implemented by the Scottish government to gather insights on regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures like lip fillers.

According to the UK government, this tool is employed to analyze responses and deliver results comparable to human-generated outputs, with ongoing development aimed at reviewing additional consultations.

It examined over 2,000 responses while highlighting key themes, which were subsequently verified and enhanced by experts from the Scottish government.

The government has developed the consultation tool as part of a new suite of AI technologies known as “Humphrey.” They assert it will “accelerate operations in Whitehall and decrease consulting expenditures.”

Officials claim that, through the 500 consultations conducted each year, this innovative tool could save UK taxpayers £20 million annually, freeing up approximately 75,000 hours for other tasks.

Michael Lobatos, a professor of artificial intelligence at the University of Edinburgh, notes that while the benefits of consultations are significant, the potential for AI bias should not be disregarded.

“The intention is for humans to always oversee the process, but in practice, people may not have the time to verify every detail, leading to bias creeping in,” he stated.

Lobatos also expressed concerns that domestic and international “bad actors” could potentially compromise AI integrity.

“It’s essential to invest in ensuring our systems are secure and effective, which requires significant resources,” he remarked.

“Maximizing benefits while minimizing harm demands more initial investment and training than is typically expected. Ministers and civil servants might see this merely as a cost-saving quick fix, but it is crucial and complex.”

The government asserts that the consultation tool operates 1,000 times faster than humans and is 400 times less expensive, with conclusions “remarkably similar” to those of experts, albeit with less detail.

Discussing the launch of the tool, technology secretary Peter Kyle claimed it would save “millions” for taxpayers.

“There’s no reason to spend time on tasks that AI can perform more quickly and effectively, let alone waste taxpayer money contracting out such work,” he said.

“With promising outcomes, Humphrey helps lower governance costs and efficiently compiles and analyzes feedback from both experts and the public regarding vital issues.”

“The Scottish government has made a courageous first move, and will soon implement consultations across their own department and others within Whitehall.”

While there’s no set timeline for consultations still pending governmental approval, deployment to government agencies is anticipated by the end of 2025.

Source: www.theguardian.com

New Species of Herrerasaurus Discovered in India

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A newly discovered species fills the temporal gap between South American Herrerasaurus dinosaurs and their younger relatives in North America.

Reconstructing the life of Maleriraptor Kuttyi with the Unayasaurid Sauropodomorph Jaklapallisaurus asymmetric, both from the Norian Upper Maleri Formation in southern central India. Image credit: Márcio L. Castro.

Maleriraptor Kuttyi existed in present-day India during the Norian period of the Triassic, approximately 220 million years ago.

These ancient reptiles are part of the Herrerasauria, a small to medium-sized group of carnivorous animals that appeared in the fossil record around 228 million years ago and went extinct by the end of the Triassic period.

“Herrerasaurus is a representative of the earliest radiation of predatory dinosaurs,” stated Dr. Martin Ezcala, a paleontologist from the University of Birmingham and the Concejo Nacional de Investigative Sciences, alongside his museum colleagues.

“Previously, their records were predominantly limited to four nominal species found in the Norian Formation in the central area of Karnia in northwestern Argentina and the lower section of the Candelaria sequence in southern Brazil (dated 233-229 million years ago).”

“These species are bipedal, with a total length ranging from 1.2 to 6 m (3.9 to 19.7 feet).”

In particular, Herrerasaurus ischigualastensis stands out as the most abundant dinosaur in the lower third of the stratigraphic sequence of the Ischigualasto Formation within the region.

“The possibility of Herrerasaurus existing outside South America was first suggested in the mid-1990s with the discovery of Chindesaurus bryansmalli, from the Norian levels of the mid-upper Sinru formation in North America.”

Fossil materials of Maleriraptor Kuttyi were collected over 40 years ago from the Upper Maleri Formation in the Pramhitagodabari Valley, located about 1 km south of Anamam village in southern India.

“The Upper Maleri Formation where Maleriraptor Kuttyi was found is particularly significant in illuminating the early evolution of dinosaurs, as it retains a collection of dinosaurs that are slightly younger than the earliest radiation in Karnia,” remarked the paleontologist.

According to the research team, Maleriraptor Kuttyi provides the first evidence that Herrerasaurus also survived in Gondwana, related to the turnover of tetrapods in the early Norian period (227-220 million years ago), coinciding with the global extinction of a group of herbivorous alxaurmorph reptiles known as Linchaurus.

“The discovery of Maleriraptor Kuttyi indicates that Herrerasaurus persisted at least during the early Norians after the extinction event that wiped out Rinchaurus.”

“The presence of Herrerasaurus in the early Norians of India might be climatically influenced, as it suggests that India experienced different average annual temperatures and precipitation compared to North America’s Norian regions.”

“A more comparable paleoclimate between India and Southern North America might explain the presence of fauna components that are uncommon or absent in southern South America, such as phytosaurs, Herrerasaurus, Protopycnosaurus, and Marellisaurus alocotosaurus.”

“The deposition of the Upper Maleri Formation occurred shortly after the extinction event affecting Linchaurus, which is well-documented in the lower Maleri Formation.”

“The faunistic similarity between the Upper Maleri Formation and the upper section of the Brazilian Santa Maria Supersequence suggests they share a similar age, dating back to approximately 225 million years, which includes the presence of Unayasaurids.”

Thus, Maleriraptor Kuttyi helps bridge the early Norian gaps in the Herrerasaurus record.

The team’s paper has been published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

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Martín D. Ezcurra et al. 2025. A new Herrerasaurus dinosaur from the Upper Triassic Upper Marelli Formation in southern India. R. Soc. Open SCI 12(5): 250081; doi: 10.1098/rsos.250081

Source: www.sci.news

Study Uncovers Aztec Preference for Sierra de Pachuca’s Green Obsidian

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have explored the significance of obsidian, a crucial resource in the Aztec empire, utilized for tools and ritual items, as well as its broad importance in the pre-Columbian period. They examined 788 obsidian artifacts, representing various objects and contexts excavated from the mayor of Tenochtitlan (c. 1375-1520), the empire’s core located in present-day Mexico City. Their findings revealed that the Aztecs favored Green Obsidian from Sierra de Pachuca, while also sourcing this material from seven other locations. These results indicate a complex economy that depended on extensive long-distance trade, influenced not only by conquests but also internal rivalries.

Obsidian artifacts from Tenochtitlan. Image credit: mirsa islas/ptm-inah.

“While the Mexica preferred Green Obsidian, the variety of obsidian types, especially in non-ritual artifacts, indicates that these tools came from multiple markets rather than being directly acquired from sources,” noted a candidate from Tulane University.

“By tracing the origins of this material, we can examine the distribution of goods across Mesoamerica.”

Analysis revealed that nearly 90% of the obsidian artifacts sampled were produced from Sierra de Pachuca Obsidian.

Most ritual items discovered within the buried offerings at Mayor Templo were crafted from this type of obsidian, including small weapons, gemstones, and decorative inlays for sculptures.

A modest yet significant portion of obsidian was sourced from regions like Otonba, Tulanche, Ucaleo, and El Paraiso, with some being beyond the control of the Mexica Empire.

These materials were typically used for tool-making and found in construction fill, suggesting their availability through local markets rather than strict state control.

This study traced the evolution of obsidian use from the city’s early days up to its fall in 1520 AD.

In the initial phases of the Empire, there was greater diversity in obsidian sources present in both ceremonial and daily items.

Following the consolidation of Aztec power around AD 1430, obsidian was primarily sourced from Sierra de Pachuca, indicating a trend towards religious uniformity and centralized oversight.

“This type of compositional analysis enables us to track the evolution of empire expansion, political alliances, and trade networks over time,” remarked Matadamas Gomora.

“This research highlights the vast scope and intricacy of the Mexica Empire and demonstrates how archaeological science can illuminate ancient artifacts and provide insights into past cultural practices.”

Survey results will be published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Diego Matadama Gomora et al. 2025. A compositional analysis of obsidian artifacts from the mayor of Tenochitlan, the capital of the Mexican Empire. pnas 122 (20): E2500095122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2500095122

Source: www.sci.news

Study: Flamingos Utilize Beaks and Flexible Legs to Generate Water Tornadoes for Catching Prey

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, and Georgia Tech has uncovered that flamingos are not mere passive filter feeders; instead, they are active predators that employ flow-guided traps to catch nimble invertebrates.

Flamingos feed by dragging their flattened beaks forward along the shallow lake bottom. To enhance feeding efficiency, they stomp their feet to stir up the bottom, create swirling vortices with their heads, and repeatedly slap their beaks to catch food like brine shrimp. Image credit: aztli ortega.

“Flamingos are predators actively seeking out moving animals underwater. The challenge they face is how to concentrate these prey items to attract and capture them.”

“Consider how spiders spin webs to catch insects. Flamingos utilize vortices to trap creatures such as brine shrimp.”

Dr. Ortega Zimenez and his team conducted the study using Chilean flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) sourced from the Nashville Zoo, where they were kept in aquariums for several weeks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbkrxu7n6kw

Utilizing high-speed cameras and particle image velocity measurements, the researchers documented and analyzed feeding behaviors, employing flow visualization techniques involving fine food particles and oxygen bubbles.

They discovered that the birds use their floppy, swaying feet to disturb the bottom sediment and propel themselves forward in a swirling motion. Additionally, the flamingos convulse their heads upward like plungers while creating mini-tornados to draw food from the water’s surface.

As the birds keep their heads inverted in a watery vortex, their angled beaks create small vortices that direct sediment and food into their mouths, enhancing their feeding efficiency.

The unique structure of the flamingo’s beak, with its flattened shape and angled front, enables a technique known as skimming. This involves the bird extending its long, S-shaped neck to push its head forward while rapidly beating its beak, generating a sheet-like vortex (von Karman vortex) that captures prey.

“These complex active feeding behaviors challenge the long-held belief that flamingos are merely passive filter feeders,” noted Dr. Ortega Zimenez.

“While they may appear to be filtering only passive particles, these birds are actively preying on moving organisms.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdziufdf3ka

The authors also applied computational fluid dynamics to simulate the 3D flow around the beak and feet of the flamingos.

They confirmed that the vortices indeed concentrate particles, similar to experiments that used a 3D printhead with aggressively swimming shrimp and passively floating brine shrimp eggs.

“We observed that when we placed 3D printed models in the water to replicate skimming, they generated symmetrical vortices along the sides of the beak, cycling particles in the water effectively,” Dr. Ortega Zimenez shared.

The team’s findings will be published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Victor M. Ortega Zimenez et al. 2025. Flamingos use their L-shaped beak and morphing legs to induce vortex traps for prey capture. pnas 122 (21): E2503495122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2503495122

Source: www.sci.news

Chimpanzees Utilize Healing Plants for Wound Care

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New research has revealed that wild chimpanzees are capable of self-medicating their wounds with plants, assisting injured companions, and freeing others from traps set by human hunters.

This behavior, documented in a study published in the journal Frontiers of Evolution and Ecology on Wednesday, offers new insights into the evolutionary roots of human medicine.

Over approximately eight months, the study combined video footage and photographs with historical data, revealing that chimpanzees engage in actions like biting plants, applying leaves to wounds as makeshift bandages, and grooming wounds of fellow animals. Observers noted a chimpanzee pressing a leaf against its wound for treatment.

The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about whether altruistic behaviors are exclusive to humans, as they show that even chimpanzees without familial ties can exhibit care toward one another.

Wild chimpanzees in Uganda grooming.
Elodie Freymann

“Humans often pride themselves on being unique in their capacity for empathy and altruism,” says Elodie Freyman, a postdoctoral researcher at Oxford University and the study’s lead author. “These animals demonstrate that they can identify others in need and respond appropriately.”

Chimpanzees and bonobos, the closest genetic relatives to humans, bolster the argument that healthcare concepts may have existed millions of years prior to the emergence of Homo sapiens.

“Our shared ancestors likely exhibited these caring behaviors,” Freyman stated.

An increasing number of studies indicates that various animal species can self-medicate with differing levels of sophistication. For instance, elephants have been observed to consume specific leaves for medicinal purposes, hinting that animals might be addressing health issues like digestion.

As research on animal medicinal behaviors expands, experts believe it provides crucial insights into our own evolutionary past.

“Evidence of healthcare behaviors exists among our ancestors, dating back to pre-Neanderthals, but the evolutionary pathways of such explorative behaviors remain unclear,” remarked Alessandra Mascaro, a primate researcher and doctoral candidate at the University of Osnabrueck in Germany. “We are only beginning to uncover these complexities.”

In 2022, Mascaro published findings illustrating that Gabonian chimpanzees applied insects to their own wounds and anticipates that further observations will clarify how these behaviors evolved.

Studying chimpanzee self-medication poses challenges due to the rarity of such behaviors.

Freyman dedicated two months to researching chimpanzees in Budongo Forest, Uganda, where observing these animals can be both physically taxing and demanding.

Wild chimpanzees in Uganda grooming.
Elodie Freymann

“Some days involve sitting at the base of a tree for hours, while others might have you stuck in a muddy hole while trying to observe them. The day’s tasks depend heavily on the group’s activities.

During her fieldwork, Freyman noted numerous instances of care behaviors among chimpanzees. She also discovered historical observational records from previous studies that revealed behaviors not documented until now, indicating a pattern of medicinal practices dating back to the 1990s.

“Collating these observations paints a remarkable picture of chimpanzee care,” she remarked.

From her findings and historical records, Freyman documented 41 instances of chimpanzee wound care, including four cases involving unrelated individuals.

“These results suggest that prosocial behaviors among nonkin may be more widespread than previously recognized,” noted Isabel Laumer, a cognitive biologist at the Max Planck Institute for Animal Behavior in Germany, who was not part of this study. “Further research is essential.”

Mascaro, who has studied chimpanzee healthcare behaviors in Gabon, acknowledged that the new findings from Uganda show similar medicinal behaviors across different populations of chimpanzees.

“Prior to this, we had limited knowledge about chimpanzees in that part of Africa,” Mascaro stated.

The phenomenon of self-medication has also been observed in other primates. Last year, Laumer documented that Indonesian orangutans apply leaves to facial wounds as a remedy for injuries sustained during conflicts. The plants they utilize often possess pain-relieving properties recognized by humans.

This body of research broadly indicates that primates are capable of identifying and utilizing plants with medicinal qualities.

“Chimpanzees consider forests not only as a food source but also as a repository for medicinal resources,” Freyman emphasized, underscoring the importance of preserving forest ecosystems.

She suggested that humans may have learned about medicinal plants from these primates, and that pharmaceutical companies could benefit from studying animal behavior to discover valuable medical compounds in the future.

“If you wish to refine the knowledge of these remarkable medicinal resources, observing and learning from animals is an effective, ethical, and responsible approach,” Freyman concluded.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Rescue of 2,600-Year-Old Stones Unearthed from Ancient Nineveh

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The preservation of ancient stones is illustrated in the context of Ashurbanipal. A team of archaeologists from the University of Heidelberg has discovered depictions of two gods and other figures representing the rulers of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, spanning from 699 to 631 BC.

A fragment of a 2,600-year-old stone relief from the archaeological site of Nineveh. Image credit: Aaron Schmidt.

Two artifacts, dating back 2,600 years, were unearthed at the archaeological site of Nineveh, located in modern-day Mosul, northern Iraq.

Nineveh served as the capital and largest city of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, and for almost 50 years, it was the largest city in the world.

“The ancient city of Nineveh is recognized as one of the most significant cities in North Mesopotamia. King Sennacherib established it as the capital of the Assyrian Empire in the 8th century BC,” stated Professor Aaron Schmidt from the University of Heidelberg and his team.

The recently unearthed relief from the throne room of King Ashurbanipal’s North Palace stands out not only for its dimensions but also for the intricate scenes it portrays.

This enormous stone slab measures 5.5 m (18 feet) long and 3 m (10 feet) tall, weighing approximately 12 tons.

3D model of stone relief from the archaeological site of Nineveh: dark gray marks the fragments, while light gray areas indicate reconstructions based on findings. King Ashurbanipal is depicted in the center, flanked by the god Ashur (left) and the guardian goddess of Nineveh (right), followed by fish spirits and skilled attendants. Image credit: Michael Rummel.

“Among the various reliefs found in the Assyrian palace, this is the first to prominently feature the major gods,” commented Professor Schmidt.

“At the center of the newly uncovered relief is King Ashurbanipal, the last major ruler of the Assyrian Empire.”

“He is positioned next to the two greatest deities: Assur and Ishtar, along with the guardian goddess of Nineveh.”

“Surrounding them are fish spirits, symbolizing divine life and sovereignty, as well as armed supporters, potentially depicted as scorpions.”

“The evidence implies that a large winged solar disk may have originally adorned the relief.”

Researchers will continue to analyze the depictions meticulously and aim to publish their findings in an academic journal.

“This relief was originally located in a niche opposite the front entrance of the throne room, indicating its significance within the palace,” Professor Schmidt elaborated.

“We discovered a fragment of the relief in an earth-filled hole behind this niche.”

“It’s possible it was buried during the Hellenistic period around the 3rd or 2nd century BC.”

The burial of these fragments is likely one reason why British archaeologists failed to locate them over a century ago.

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Discover First Fossils of Extant Tropical Tree Species

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fossils of the giant rainforest tree Dryobalanops rappa have been found in Brunei (officially known as Brunei Darussalam), an island nation in Borneo. This discovery marks the first fossil evidence of a living, endangered tropical tree species, opening up new avenues for fossil research and underscoring the importance of Southeast Asian heritage and its preservation.

Leaf architecture from living (C, D, FH) compared to fossils (A, B, E) of Dryobalanops. Image credit: Wang et al, doi: 10.1002/ajb2.70036.

Locally referred to as Kapur Paya, Dryobalanops rappa is a tall tree species that exists today but is threatened with extinction in Borneo’s carbon-rich peatlands, including Brunei.

Fossil leaves estimated to be 2 million years old were uncovered in Kampong Rugh within the Chuton district of Brunei.

“This discovery provides a unique glimpse into the ancient history of Asian tropical wet forests,” noted researchers from Pennsylvania.

“We now have fossil evidence that this remarkable tree species has been integral to Borneo’s forests for millions of years, emphasizing its ecological significance and the urgency to protect its remaining habitats.”

According to Professor Peter Wilf of Pennsylvania, “Fossil records of wet tropical forests in Asia have been surprisingly limited compared to those in the Amazon and Africa.”

Paleontologists identified these fossils by examining the microscopic features of the preserved leaf cuticles, down to the cellular level of Dryobalanops rappa.

“Our findings underscore that these forests are not only thriving with biodiversity today but are also home to iconic tree species that have existed for millions of years,” Wang stated.

“Conservation efforts should not only focus on current species but also aim to preserve the ecological legacy that has endured over millennia.”

“The dominant tree family in Asian rainforests, the bi-pterocarps, plays a crucial role in carbon storage and biodiversity,” the researchers highlighted.

“However, these trees face increasing threats from deforestation and habitat loss.”

“By unveiling the deep historical roots of these trees, this discovery offers a fresh perspective on conservation strategies,” Wang added.

“These findings add a new dimension to conservation, as we strive to protect not only modern species but also ancient survivors that are pivotal to our ecosystem,” Wang concluded.

“This historical context makes both the endangered tree species and their habitats even more critical for conservation efforts.”

“Our research demonstrates how fossil evidence can inform conservation strategies for endangered species and ecosystems, grounded in their historical importance,” Professor Wilf remarked.

“Understanding the history of tropical forests is vital for conservation, especially as numerous key species face rapid decline.” Professor Wilf emphasized.

“Our discovery lays an essential historical foundation for the conservation of keystone trees in tropical Asia, particularly the rapidly diminishing bi-ptery species.”

Details of these findings are documented in a paper published in the American Journal of Botany.

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Teng-Xiang Wang et al. Fossils of the endemic giant dual-pterocarp species open a historic portal into Borneo’s disappearing rainforest. American Journal of Botany, published online on May 8, 2025. doi:10.1002/ajb2.70036

Source: www.sci.news

Internal Departments Are Declining in Influence While Extraction Is Rising

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Trump administration is suggesting a significant reevaluation of how public lands across the U.S. are utilized and managed, based on an Interior Department document released in late April. This draft strategic plan outlines objectives for the next five years, focusing on maximizing economic benefits through resource extraction, such as oil and gas, while minimizing emphasis on conservation.

“This serves as a roadmap for industrializing public land,” stated Taylor McKinnon of the Center for Biodiversity. McKinnon expressed skepticism regarding the administration’s ability to achieve these goals, signaling potential lawsuits from his organization and others.

Many ambitious proposals are being floated that are specific to Washington, DC, and are unlikely to materialize. However, Donald J. Trump is commencing his second presidential term with determined momentum, reshaping federal agencies at a speed previously unseen.

“I am fully committed to implementing the directives of Project 2025,” remarked Jacob Malcolm, who recently led the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Policy Analysis. Project 2025, a 900-page document published by the Heritage Foundation in 2023, acts as a guiding framework for various policies, including those regarding public land. Much of the section related to the Department of the Interior was authored by William Perry Pendley, a conservative activist.

Among the numerous objectives highlighted in the strategic plan released on April 22, coinciding with Earth Day, “Restoring America’s Prosperity” is a focal point. To realize this goal, the Department of the Interior aims to “open Alaska and other federal lands for mineral extraction,” “boost revenues from grazing, timber, precious minerals, gravel, and other non-energy resources,” and “enhance production of clean coal, oil, and gas with expedited permitting processes.”

The newsletter discussing public domain initiatives first reported this documentation. In a statement via email, a spokesperson for the Interior Department criticized the leak, which seemingly prepares environmental groups, including McKinnon, for legal challenges. The statement labeled the leak as “unacceptable” and claimed it is “irresponsible for media outlets to publish draft documents.” They assured that the leak of internal pre-decision documents would be taken “very seriously,” and an investigation would follow, although no further details were provided by the department’s media office.

The plan does touch upon more conventional goals, such as enhancing “resilience against natural disasters,” improving infrastructure like dams and bridges, and promoting recreation, particularly hunting and fishing. However, the overarching outlook reflected in the 23-page document aligns with long-held Republican views that regard federal land protection as overly burdensome and intrusive—beliefs that gained traction during the late 1970s and the early Reagan administration. After the Sagebrush Rebels began advocating for privatization over conservation, these ideas became more mainstream. (Pendley identifies himself under the handle @sagebrush_rebel on social media, with an avatar featuring Ronald Reagan in western attire.)

“The strategic plan clearly prioritizes the extraction and sale of public land,” stated Aaron H. Weiss, Deputy Director of the Western Priority Center, a nonpartisan nonprofit advocating land protection. “Conservation, protection, recreation, and tribal responsibilities are all deprioritized.” (The Department of Interior sometimes overlaps with “all other departments,” such as the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Bureau, and Bureau of Indian Affairs.)

A significant component of the 2030 plan is already rolling out. Interior Secretary Doug Burgham is moving forward to expedite environmental review processes necessary for approving mines, wells, pipelines, and other industrial infrastructure. Recently, the Trump administration greenlit the construction of homes on federal land. Pendley previously led the Bureau of Land Management during Trump’s first term. Moreover, on May 2, Burgham announced the opening of 87,000 acres managed by his department. for enhanced hunting and fishing opportunities.

Burgham’s strategic plan also includes a provision suggesting the return of federal lands to the states, termed policy diving. As Weiss pointed out, “History teaches us that states often lack the resources to manage such lands, resulting in closures, sales, and increasing privatization. This is the ultimate endgame.”

Still, the vision laid out by the new Home Office may only be partially realized, particularly as courts continue to halt central components of Trump’s agenda. “Much of what they’re doing seems to be illegal,” Dr. Malcolm articulated, referencing the large-scale layoffs instituted by the Trump administration in the Department of the Interior and legal challenges to renewable energy projects. Nevertheless, this document starkly indicates how modern GOPs have significantly diverged from Theodore D. Roosevelt’s legacy of protecting public lands.

Mr. Roosevelt was responsible for implementing the Antiquities Act of 1906, which empowers the president to protect lands of cultural or historical significance. Subsequent Democratic presidents, including Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe R. Biden Jr., have utilized this legislation, often leading to accusations of executive overreach from conservative critics.

Burgham’s strategic plan suggests implementing “right-sized monuments,” referring particularly to the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments, which were both downsized during his initial term. While Biden reinstated those changes in 2021, there remains the possibility of additional reductions for these or other monuments.

Additional proposals contemplate restoring historic names, potentially reassigning Native American names, like Denali, Mountain Alaska, back to Mount McKinley. The department also seeks to revoke behavioral protections for certain endangered species and eliminate “unnecessary” electric vehicle policies.

Overall, the vision presented by Burgham sharply contrasts with the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan released by the Biden administration, which emphasized objectives related to “climate change,” “environmental management,” and “environmental justice.” The Biden-era plan celebrated initiatives for diversity, equity, and inclusion—concepts actively dismissed by the Trump administration.

In one of his first actions upon returning to the White House, Trump declared a “national energy emergency.” This move comes in response to the Interior Department’s stated intent to expedite the permitting process for new oil and gas leases.

Experts, however, argue that no such crisis exists. According to the Energy Information Administration, the United States is currently the “world’s largest producer of crude oil and natural gas.” Moreover, with the increasing affordability of renewable energy options, supporting the opening of federal land to excavation appears to lack justification. “We’ve witnessed significant advancements globally,” commented Mark Squilas, a natural resource expert at the University of Colorado Law School in Boulder, who also described claims of a national energy emergency as “absurd.”

Dr. Scrice raised concerns regarding the limited opportunities available for public input on the strategic plans set to be finalized by October. “This essentially circumvents the comprehensive engagement process,” he remarked. “This is not a genuinely thorough process.”

Mary Joe Rugwell, who leads the Public Land Foundation, previously served as the state director of Wyoming’s Bureau of Land Management. She noted that land use policies oscillate between ideological extremes, often leading to legal disputes.

“They’re bound to face lawsuits,” she stated regarding the Trump administration. “And the thing is, once litigation starts, progress comes to a halt; all that arises is a barrage of legal counsel.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

3M to Pay Up to $450 Million for Water Contamination Settlement

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

3M is expected to pay New Jersey between $400 million and $450 million over the next 25 years. The company is implicated in the contamination of drinking water across the nation with harmful “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS.

The Minnesota-based chemical corporation has produced PFAS for decades at the Chambers Works site in Deepwater, New Jersey, situated along the Delaware River. This facility was previously owned by the competitor DuPont.

Officials have stated that this settlement marks the largest single clean water agreement in New Jersey history. In 2019, New Jersey launched a lawsuit against 3M, DuPont, and other PFAS manufacturers, citing contamination of the drinking water supply from the facility.

PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, are found in numerous everyday products, such as nonstick cookware, water-repellant clothing, and stain-resistant carpets. Exposure to these chemicals is associated with metabolic disorders, reduced birth rates in women, delayed child development, and higher risks of certain cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.

As part of the settlement announced on Tuesday, 3M will allocate between $400 million and $450 million to New Jersey over 25 years, aimed at damages and improving drinking water treatment.

New Jersey noted that DuPont and its spinoff, Kemoul, which operates the facility, are not included in the settlement. The remaining parties are anticipated to take the matter to trial. DuPont chose not to comment.

“Businesses that contaminate our water supply must be held accountable,” stated New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “For years, 3M was aware its PFAS chemicals were permanently polluting the New Jersey environment, yet they evaded responsibility. That time is over.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the Chambers Works facility historically produced gunpowder and materials for nuclear purposes, aiding in the development of the atomic bomb. Recently, the site has manufactured a range of chemicals, including PFAS.

New Jersey Environmental Protection Commissioner Sean M. Latourette remarked that the pollution issue extends far beyond drinking water. “PFAS are present throughout New Jersey, even reaching soil in forests distant from landfills,” he noted.

New Jersey is only the second state to settle with 3M regarding PFAS-related drinking water pollution claims, following Minnesota, which saw 3M agree to pay $850 million in 2018 for similar issues affecting natural resources.

In 2023, 3M also reached a nationwide settlement of up to $12.5 billion with public water suppliers to tackle PFAS contamination in drinking water.

3M characterized the agreement as a “crucial step toward mitigating risks and uncertainties” related to historical PFAS contamination. The company indicated that it had begun phasing out the production of two major PFAS substances in 2000 and aims to stop all PFAS production by 2025.

3M clarified that the settlement should not be seen as an admission of guilt and noted that it would incur a pre-tax charge of $285 million in the second quarter.

This week, the EPA was set to announce whether it will uphold the stringent PFAS drinking water standards established by the Biden administration last year.

Chemical companies and utilities have sued the agency over this decision. The Trump administration was due to inform the court on Monday whether it would continue to support these standards but instead requested a 21-day extension to determine its next steps.

Source: www.nytimes.com