Zuckerberg’s 2006 Quote Central to Meta’s Antitrust Case

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In September 2006, Facebook’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg articulated the distinctiveness of his platform.

“Facebook is about genuine connections with actual friends,” he stated Company Posts.

Now, two decades later, this statement lies at the core of Zuckerberg’s pivotal antitrust trial against the social media giant, now called Meta, which is accused of unlawfully stifling competition. The trial essentially questions whether social networking is solely about personal relationships or something broader.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which is prosecuting the case, aims to specifically characterize social networking as a service that connects friends and family. By this definition, Meta’s primary competition is with Snap, the creator of Snapchat, based on user reach. However, Meta argues that it competes with all social media platforms, including TikTok and YouTube.

“The aspect of my friends has significantly diminished,” Zuckerberg testified during the trial last month, contradicting his earlier sentiments from 2006.

The contrasting definition of social media in the case—Federal Trade Commission vs. Metaplatforms—highlights the evolution and complexity of social networking over the years. Meta has broadened its origins to become a platform for college students, with numerous other companies now creating similar products that mimic features such as the “Like” button and news feed.

In the trial’s initial four weeks, numerous executives from companies like Reddit, Pinterest, and LinkedIn appeared, yet they did little to clarify what constitutes social networking. They acknowledged competing for the same user base, albeit with different offerings.

Determining Meta’s role in this landscape will be pivotal for Judge James E. Boasberg of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, who is overseeing the case.

“It’s not a walk in the park,” Judge Boasberg remarked in his opinion late last year.

The trial will assess whether Meta’s acquisition of Instagram for $1 billion in 2012 and its $19 billion purchase of WhatsApp in 2014 constituted illegal competition. The judge’s ruling could significantly influence tech markets as the industry faces ongoing bipartisan efforts to limit Silicon Valley’s influence on speech, entertainment, commerce, and computing.

Should he side with the government, which aims to dismantle Meta, it could hinder the inclination of major tech companies to acquire smaller competitors. This would disrupt the startup economy, as many founders depend on larger firms to provide liquidity for investors.

“The world we inhabit is becoming increasingly intricate, making this case significant. If the FTC prevails, we could see more vigorous antitrust enforcement,” stated Daniel Rubinfeld, a former Deputy Attorney General who was involved in the government’s antitrust action against Microsoft over two decades ago.

Under most antitrust regulations, competitive markets tend to be clearly defined, according to legal experts. Prices are typically the basis for evaluating a company’s competitive power and effects, including mergers or anti-competitive actions that raise the prices of products like airline tickets and appliances.

However, since internet companies like Meta provide services at no cost to users, this case represents a novel legal challenge.

In his opening statement, Daniel Matheson, the lead attorney for the government, accused Meta of possessing a “monopoly in U.S. personal social networking services.”

Matheson argued that Meta’s extensive network, which facilitates connections among users, was central to the company’s growth and attracted advertisers eager to reach closely connected audiences.

Meta countered by asserting that it primarily competes for user attention with platforms like YouTube and TikTok that focus on short-format videos. Mark Hansen, Meta’s chief litigator, mentioned that the company shifted into “crisis” mode following TikTok’s U.S. launch in 2018.

On Thursday, one of Meta’s attorneys queried Instagram director Adam Mosseri about the app’s resemblance to Facebook and TikTok.

“I see Instagram as being situated between the two; it aligns more closely with TikTok,” he replied. Instagram began as a platform for connecting friends but has evolved into a resource for entertainment.

Despite the influx of executives from other social media platforms, there has been little clarity regarding the market structure of the industry.

“YouTube and Instagram are the primary competitors of TikTok,” according to a 2021 internal TikTok document released by Meta’s legal team.

When queried about competition, TikTok’s business chief Adam Presser downplayed the notion, insisting that the app operates differently: “We don’t perceive it as a social app.”

YouTube, meanwhile, primarily serves entertainment needs, and it’s uncommon for users to share content or follow acquaintances on the platform, noted Aaron Filner, the company’s senior director.

As for social media platform X, Keith Coleman, vice president of product, remarked, “Many people now view it as a space to connect with friends and family, rather than just a news source.”

Experts indicated that it is normal for market definitions to be contested.

In 1997, the FTC successfully blocked the merger between Staples and Office Depot by highlighting their concentration in the office supply market, despite their claims of competition with big-box retailers like Walmart.

The following year, the government accused Microsoft of reducing competition by bundling internet browsers with their widely used Windows operating system, convincing judges to draw a narrow market definition around personal computers running on Intel chips, excluding Apple computers and handheld devices.

The FTC’s case against Meta adopts a conventional approach by narrowly defining the market; however, it also recognizes that digital realities alter the dynamics of competition, focusing on attention and user engagement. This insight comes from an FTC official involved in the agency’s lawsuit against Meta.

Judge Boasberg has kept his views largely private yet has pointed out that various social media applications share numerous characteristics, questioning whether their usage differs “only in degree.”

He mentioned that texting has largely replaced voice calls and that younger users frequently switch between different platforms and technologies.

“Are these norms in a constant state of flux?” Judge Boasberg, who does not engage with social media, queried expert witnesses.

Source: www.nytimes.com

How Apple Sparked Legal Confusion in Its Courtroom Victory

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Weeks after a federal appellate court mandated that Apple loosen the reins of CEO Tim Cook, his senior associate deliberated on the next steps.

For over ten years, Apple has insisted that apps utilize the App Store payment system, collecting a 30% commission on sales. However, in 2023, the court ruled that apps could bypass Apple’s payment system and allow users to purchase directly. Cook sought clarity on whether Apple could still impose fees on these sales without breaching the court’s directive.

Phil Schiller, responsible for overseeing the App Store, expressed concerns that the revised fees might be unlawful. He supported direct online sales without Apple’s commission. Luca Maestri, the company’s financial head, disagreed, advocating for a 27% commission to safeguard the business.

Ultimately, Cook sided with Maestri, attempting to rationalize this decision. A federal judge criticized the company in a recent ruling, accusing it of fabricating independent economic research to validate its choices and withholding thousands of documents under claims of attorney-client privilege. Furthermore, at least one executive allegedly misled the court.

The judge’s ruling, alongside witness testimonies this year and company documents disclosed Thursday, highlights the extreme measures Apple has taken to maintain every cent accrued from the App Store. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who presided over the initial lawsuit from Epic Games in 2020, could inadvertently impact Apple’s operations and hurt its credibility as scrutiny around the business intensifies.

Additionally, the company faces multiple legal challenges, including an antitrust lawsuit from the Department of Justice, which accuses it of maintaining a monopoly with its iPhone. Class Action Lawsuits from U.S. app developers and regulatory scrutiny from the U.K., Spain, and potentially China.

Mark A. Remley, a professor at Stanford Law, noted, “If you lose credibility with the court, the next judge may be less forgiving.” This situation could prompt future judges to suspect dishonesty during Apple’s subsequent cases.

Google’s corporate dealings have similarly cast a shadow over its legal processes. A recent judge noted in an antitrust case regarding Google’s advertising technology, the company’s attempts to obscure communications raised concerns about its adherence to court mandates.

In response to Judge Gonzalez Rogers’ ruling, Apple plans to appeal, asserting that the findings were “unjust” and deeming delays to the court order necessary. The company declined to provide further comments on this report.

In 2020, Epic, the creator of Fortnite, filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging antitrust violations related to the mandated use of the App Store payment system. Although Judge Gonzalez Rogers ruled in Apple’s favor, asserting it wasn’t a monopoly, she highlighted that Apple breached California competition laws by requiring developers to use the App Store for software and services.

To comply with the court’s orders, Apple initiated a project termed “Wisconsin.” Two solutions were explored: one that would allow apps to include links for online purchases at designated locations without fees, and another that would require the app to charge a 27% commission for providing those links.

Without commissions and fees, Apple estimated potential losses totaling hundreds of millions, even exceeding a billion dollars. Opting for the 27% fee would minimize their losses.

In a June 2023 meeting, Cook evaluated commission options ranging from 20–27%. He reviewed analyses indicating that with a 27% commission, Apple could potentially lose its payment system while ultimately endorsing a plan that limited where app links for online purchases could be placed.

Consequently, Apple enlisted an economic consultancy to author reports to substantiate these fees, concluding that its developer tools and distribution services exceed 30% of an app’s revenue.

Apple also instituted a warning screen for online purchases. Cook instructed the team to enhance the warning to emphasize Apple’s commitment to privacy and security. “Rather than terminating their relationship with Apple, the company cannot be held accountable for the privacy or security of transactions made online,” he stated.

After introducing the 27% commission in January 2024, Epic brought Apple back to court, arguing it was not complying with the judge’s orders. Judge Gonzalez Rogers summoned both Apple and Epic to court, where Treasury VP Alex Roman testified that the commission had been finalized on January 16, 2024. Executives revealed that the consultancy report influenced the commission fee setting.

Judge Gonzalez Rogers expressed skepticism about Apple’s honesty and demanded documentation regarding their compliance. Apple submitted 89,000 documents, a third of which were marked confidential. The court dismissed these claims as “baseless,” stating Apple pressured them into concealing more than half the documents.

The findings indicated that Rome lied under oath, that the consultancy report was “deceptive,” and that Apple “willfully” ignored the court’s directives, as termed by Judge Gonzalez Rogers. She characterized this as “concealment.”

Her ruling may empower prosecutors, regulators, and judges in similar ongoing cases against Apple across the globe, according to various antitrust professors and lawyers.

When the company attempts to edit or conceal documents, it may draw the attention of prosecutors and judges to strategize against such “tactics to delay litigation,” especially in the Epic Games case. During testimonies, the credibility of Apple executives was called into question as it became apparent the company “conceals the truth.”

In other cases regarding Apple, such as the Department of Justice antitrust lawsuits, Colin Kass, an antitrust attorney for Proskauer Rose, indicated that the process will begin with a firm statement against Apple’s past tactics. “I won’t entertain any games they’ve played before,” he stated.

The company remains cautious regarding both the Justice Department’s lawsuit and its defense, noted Vanderbilt University law professor Rebecca Ho Allensworth, who studies antitrust. Apple previously claimed that green bubbles in messages from Android users were due to safety concerns. However, she suggested such claims may now be viewed skeptically following the recent ruling.

Allensworth remarked that the judges’ opinions could influence App Store practices, leading to enforced resolutions akin to those from the European Union, the U.K., and Spain—to guarantee regulatory and court confidence.

“Apple behaves as though it operates above the law,” she asserted. “This sends a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

How iPhone Apps Have Evolved with the App Store’s Recent Dominance

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The landscape of iPhone apps has evolved recently. The Kindle app now enables users to purchase books directly. Spotify is offering a free trial for users, and Patreon is adjusting its subscription fees, leading to higher costs for creators.

This shift reflects the impact of recent court rulings on the iPhone shopping experience. A federal judge ruled that Apple must allow apps to provide promotions and accept payments directly, facilitating features like direct book purchases from the website. The ruling has the potential to lower consumer prices by circumventing the 30% fees Apple charges on app sales.

For over ten years, Apple mandated that apps use its payment systems and collect commissions on sales.

Everything is now subject to change. Here’s why:

What did the judge rule?

Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who became involved in the case following Epic Games’ lawsuit against Apple in 2020, ruled that Apple can no longer take commissions from sales linked through the app. She also stated that developers cannot be hindered by warning screens that restrict the creation of buttons and links for users to pay directly for products and services.

Amazon has requested updates to the Kindle app to enable direct book purchases.
credit…Kindle

How will the iPhone app be changed?

For years, Kindle avoided selling books within the app to escape Apple’s 30% commission. It has now introduced a “Get Book” button that directs users to its website for purchases. Likewise, Apple has previously blocked Spotify from offering free trials, but now Spotify includes a button for a three-month trial in the app.

Other applications are now able to feature links for direct purchases from online stores, eliminating the need to pay Apple’s 30% fees. This means apps can provide lower prices and potentially reduce monthly subscriptions to $7.

Does this cost Apple?

Morgan Stanley estimates that Apple generates $11 billion annually from app sales in the U.S. While it won’t lose all of that revenue, $2 billion is currently considered at risk.

How much Apple stands to lose motivates changes in user behavior. The decade-old process for purchasing software and services via apps is not only well-known but also convenient. Users trust Apple with their payment information, and the company simplifies subscription cancellations, centralizing the experience. Many users may be hesitant to leave the app store for purchases, influencing apps to retain the existing system.

What does this mean for other parts of the world?

As Apple is required to permit apps to handle payments directly without levying a commission, similar expectations are emerging in the U.S. European, Japanese, and South Korean regulators, whom Apple is appealing to for leniency regarding the App Store, would likely oppose their developers and citizens facing higher costs than Americans.

Can Apple roll back changes?

Apple has announced plans to appeal the ruling, but overturning the decision may prove challenging. In 2021, the judge issued a non-normative ruling. Apple circumvented previous regulations by implementing a 27% commission on app sales. Mark A. Lemley, a Stanford antitrust professor, mentioned that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit will likely uphold the judge’s initial ruling from 2021, suggesting that “they have to take their licks and let it happen.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

US v. Google: Key Arguments from Both Sides in the Search Monopoly Hearing

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Over the last three weeks, the Department of Justice and Google have questioned over 20 witnesses in an effort to influence a federal judge’s ruling regarding the company’s unlawful monopoly in internet searches.

The hearing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Friday is anticipated to yield conclusions. To address the monopoly, the government has proposed robust measures, such as divesting Google of its widely-used Chrome web browser and obliging it to share its own data with competitors. Google contends that minor adjustments to its business practices would be more effective.

Both parties are set to present their closing arguments at the end of the month. Judge Amit P. Meta, who presides over the case, is expected to make a decision by August. His ruling could significantly impact how Google, its competitors, and users search for information online.

Here’s what you need to know about the discussions during the hearing:

What case does the hearing stem from?

In August, Judge Mehta ruled that Google breached antitrust laws by paying billions to companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla to ensure its status as the default search engine on browsers and smartphones. He also found that Google’s monopoly could inflate certain search ad prices and create unfair advantages.

Last month, Judge Meta held a hearing to explore the best strategies for addressing search monopolies through a measure known as treatment. Executives from Google, competing search engines, and AI firms, along with experts, provided testimony regarding Google’s dominance on the Internet.

What did the government assert?

Government lawyers claimed that the only effective way to dismantle Google’s search monopoly is through decisive action.

They argued that Google should be compelled to spin off Chrome and share search results and ads with its competitors, enabling them to subscribe to their search engines. Other search engines and some AI firms require access to data regarding what Google users search for and the sites they visit.

During the hearing, the government cautioned that if Judge Meta does not act, Google could gain control over another technology, artificial intelligence. Searches may become chaotic as AI and chatbots transform the way users seek information online, similar to Google’s Gemini.

“The court’s remedy should be forward-looking and take into account future developments,” stated David Dalkist, the lead government attorney. “Google is employing the same strategies with Gemini that they once used for search.”

“It’s the first time in over 20 years in the last two months,” remarked Eddy Cue, an Apple executive who testified against Google. He linked this decline to the rise of AI.

What was Google’s defense?

Google’s attorneys contended that the government’s proposals could jeopardize products that consumers rely on for privacy and security during their online activities.

“There could certainly be many unintended consequences,” testified Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO.

The disclosure of Google data to competitors would compromise user privacy, the company’s attorneys claimed. They referenced incidents from 2006 when AOL released search data for research purposes, leading journalists to identify individuals through their searches.

They also noted that competition in AI is robust.

Instead, Google’s legal team suggested that web browsers and smartphone manufacturers should grant more freedom to competing search and AI services. Pichai testified that Google has already adjusted its contracts with other entities in line with the case’s proposals.

(The New York Times has sued OpenAI and its partner Microsoft over copyright infringement concerning news content related to AI systems, which they denied.)

What did other companies express?

During the hearing, several of Google’s competitors, including those from OpenAI and Chatbot Company, indicated they would consider purchasing Chrome if it were put up for sale. Government witnesses stated that access to Google’s search and advertising data would be beneficial for AI companies aiming to compete with Google.

What comments did the judge make?

When Judge Meta posed questions to the witnesses throughout the hearing, he offered insight into his perspective.

At times, he encouraged witnesses to discuss whether rivals could effectively compete with Google’s search dominance without court intervention.

Many of his inquiries focused on AI and its significance. Google competes against its rivals and has developed technology that has become a major influence in the tech industry.

When Pichai took the stand, Judge Meta mentioned he had noted the swift advancement of AI since the case commenced in the fall of 2023, highlighting his awareness of how technological developments have shaped the context of the hearing.

“One of the things that Pichai impressed upon me in these cases was that when we met long ago, consistent testimonies from witnesses indicated the combined AI and search impacts had been separate for years. By the time we convened today, the landscape had changed dramatically.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

“Out of Touch”: US Tech Firm Cuts Jobs and Halts Global IT Operations to Implement AI

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The cybersecurity firm that gained notoriety last year for causing a significant global IT outage has revealed plans to partially reduce its workforce by 5% citing “AI efficiency.”

In a memo to employees earlier this week, CEO George Kurtz, who was released to the US stock market, stated that 500 jobs, or 5% of the total workforce, would be eliminated globally due to AI advancements created by businesses.

“We are at a pivotal point in the market and technology, where AI is transforming every sector, accelerating threats, and changing customer demands,” he explained.

Kurtz emphasized that AI “will streamline the adoption process and enable quicker innovation from concepts to products,” adding that it “enhances efficiency in both front and back offices.”

“AI acts as a force multiplier across the enterprise,” he added.

Other factors contributing to the layoffs include the need for sustainable market growth and expanded product lines.

The company anticipates incurring costs of up to USD 53 million due to the job reductions.

CrowdStrike reported a revenue of USD 1 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, reflecting a 25% increase from the same period in 2024, despite a loss of USD 92 million.

Last July, CrowdStrike unintentionally promoted an erroneous software update intended to detect cybersecurity threats, which affected 8.5 million Windows systems globally.

The incident caused widespread disruption, impacting airports, hospitals, television networks, payment systems, and individual computers.

Aaron McCann, VP of research and advisory at Gartner, expressed skepticism regarding claims of AI efficiencies amid declining revenue forecasts, as seen with CrowdStrike in March.

“I view it as a justification for workforce reductions, particularly in tech. It’s fundamentally a financial decision,” he remarked, expressing immediate skepticism.

McEwan noted that firms are under pressure to justify significant investments made in AI.

“The productivity improvements we anticipated from AI are not materializing.”

Gartner’s survey indicates that fewer than 50% of employees utilize AI in their roles, with only 8% employing AI tools to boost productivity.

Toby Walsh, a professor of artificial intelligence at the University of New South Wales, described CrowdStrike’s announcement as “somewhat alarming” following last year’s suspension.

“They would be more effective by reallocating these 5% of employees to emergency responses and bug fixes,” he advised.

Walsh suggested that the market should brace itself for more such announcements in the future.

“It’s straightforward. Increased profits for companies, fewer jobs for workers. We should learn from the first industrial revolution. By uniting, we could use these savings to enhance the quality and quantity of work for everyone.”

Niusha Shafiabady, an associate professor of computational intelligence at the Australian Catholic University, stated that AI-induced job displacement is an “inevitable reality.”

“Even with good intentions, this transformation will occur. Regrettably, many will lose their traditional roles due to AI and technology,” she remarked.

“If companies can save costs by leveraging AI and technology, they will do so, resulting in job losses. This is the stark reality.”

The 2023 World Economic Forum report predicted that AI and other macroeconomic factors would affect nearly 23% of jobs globally within five years. While 69 million jobs are expected to be created, 83 million are projected to be eliminated, leading to a net decline of 2%, according to Shafiabady.

McEwan asserted that companies, especially in high-tech sectors, are exploring ways to gradually reduce their workforce through AI.

“I firmly believe that companies are emerging that can effectively shrink their workforce thanks to AI,” he noted.

“It largely depends on the type of product being sold. However, most companies at this juncture would benefit more from enhancing their workforce rather than using AI as a replacement.”

Has your job been lost to AI? Please reach out at josh.taylor@theguardian.com

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Optimal Method for Dropping Eggs

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Egg Drop Challenge is a time-honored tradition for many physics students. Participants often wrap eggs in cotton balls, tape, and various materials before dropping them from a school rooftop. Anyone who’s taken part knows how challenging it can be to design a structure that keeps the eggs intact upon impact. (That wasn’t my finest creation back in middle school!)

After the eggs break, teachers often share insights about the physics involved, suggesting that eggs dropped vertically tend to crack less than those resting flat.

But is that really accurate?

Following her experience with the egg drop challenge, Tal Cohen, an engineering professor at MIT, began to question whether traditional claims about falling eggs held up under scrutiny.

“It relates to the static behavior of the egg,” she remarked. “The dynamics of the impact are quite different.”

To validate her hypothesis, she conducted tests in the lab with eggs. Her findings turned out to be more complex; Thursday’s paper in the journal Communications discusses how eggs resting horizontally are actually less prone to cracking.

To carry out their experiments, the research team procured over 200 eggs from Costco (an advantage when prices were lower in 2023). They employed devices to crush some eggs and measure the force necessary to crack the shell. Remarkably, they found that eggshells broke under similar forces, regardless of whether the eggs were horizontal or vertical.

Next, they actually dropped the eggs. For testing purposes, they dropped them from a modest height of about 8 mm, allowing them to observe varying outcomes. When dropped from a greater height, all the eggs broke, regardless of their orientation.

Significant differences in outcomes were noted. Eggs dropped on their sides were much less likely to crack. Upon landing, their shells could compress, absorbing some of the impact. Conversely, eggs landing on their ends exhibited more rigid shells with no similar flexibility.

Joseph E. Bonavia, a graduate student in engineering at MIT and co-author of the paper, noted this similarity to human physiology.

“When falling from a height, you want to avoid locking your knees, as that can lead to fractures,” he explained. “Instead, you bend your knees—much like the eggs do.”

The way we typically cook eggs may have contributed to the misconception that eggshells are most fragile, according to Brendan M. Uniquewicch, another MIT graduate student and co-author. We often break eggs at their midpoint, which results in a long crack that allows for clean separation. As these experiments illustrate, breaking at that point causes the shell to cave inward—an undesirable outcome for omelet-making.

Indeed, the experiments challenge our intuitions about how objects behave when they fall, Dr. Cohen noted. This highlights the importance for engineering students to remain open to questioning established beliefs.

Has anyone tasted one of these eggs? Due to university policy, researchers can’t consume experimental materials in the lab. However, Dr. Cohen’s dog enjoyed a hearty meal under such restrictions.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump Administration Seeks to Lift Protections for Lesser Prairie Chicken in Texas Court

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Trump administration has taken steps to revoke federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken, a vibrant grouse unfortunate enough to inhabit the southern and central grasslands, which have long been targeted for agricultural and energy development.

In a court filing on Wednesday, officials stated that the Fish and Wildlife Service mistakenly made a decision during the Biden era to classify these birds as endangered.

This move exemplifies the ongoing efforts of the White House to dilute or eliminate environmental regulations that hinder Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” agenda.

Furthermore, it marks yet another development in the ongoing struggle for the species, a battle that has persisted for 30 years.

Known for their unique courtship rituals of stomping, tail feather flicking, and “flapping,” the lesser prairie chicken’s population has plummeted from hundreds of thousands, if not millions, to only about 30,000 due primarily to habitat loss.

“President Trump will always advocate for the elimination of burdensome regulations affecting the American agriculture sector, particularly as numerous ranchers voluntarily engage in protecting lesser prairie chicken habitats,” stated White House spokesperson Anna Kelly.

The filing, submitted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, aims to reevaluate the bird’s status by November 30, 2026.

While the species currently lacks protection under the Endangered Species Act, the filing asserted that “there are at least 16 different conservation initiatives and programs administered by state, federal, and private entities.”

Despite this, conservationists foresaw that the service would be under no obligation to reevaluate the species on its own timeline and would likely need to take legal action to prompt a review.

“The Trump administration is once again yielding to the fossil fuel industry, ignoring sound science and common sense while jeopardizing at-risk species,” stated Jason Rylander, an attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity.

“A political decision to remove protections for endangered species is one that would not hold up in court,” he added, noting his group’s involvement in the issue.

Back in 1998, federal wildlife officials acknowledged that fewer grassland chickens warranted conservation efforts but initially prioritized other species. This led to the bird being tangled in a legal battle, fluctuating in and out of protected status.

In 2022, protections for the lesser prairie chicken were reinstated under President Biden, which split the species into two distinct populations: the southern population (encompassing eastern New Mexico and eastern Texas) and the northern population (covering central Kansas, western Oklahoma, central Texas, and the northeastern Panhandle).

The oil and ranch sectors faced lawsuits in 2023, similar to those filed in Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

Currently, the Trump administration contends that the Fish and Wildlife Service mischaracterized the species as a cohesive group and is “precisely contaminating” the validity of this assessment.

The major global authority on species, the United Nations List for Nature Conservation, classifies the lesser prairie chicken as vulnerable, similar to the U.S. endangered list.

Rylander from the Center for Biological Diversity stated his intention to challenge federal motions in the days ahead. The struggle over the lesser prairie chicken continues as scientists warn about unprecedented levels of biodiversity loss in human history.

Temperate grasslands are recognized as among the most endangered ecosystems globally.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Maryland’s Sewage Sludge Fertilizer: Virginians Express Discontent.

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In 2023, Maryland sewage treatment facilities began uncovering alarming issues. Hazardous “forever chemicals” were detected in the state’s wastewater, with many being converted into fertilizers and distributed across agricultural land.

To safeguard its food and drinking water, Maryland has started to limit the application of fertilizers derived from sewage sludge. Meanwhile, Synagro, a prominent manufacturer of sludge fertilizers, is seeking approval to expand their usage across state lines in Virginia.

Environmentalists, fishing associations, and some farmers are opposing this movement, arguing that the pollution poses a significant risk to farmland and delicate waterways that nourish the Potomac River.

“These sewage sludge fertilizers are coming to Virginia because they’re deemed unsafe for Maryland farms,” stated Dean Naujox from the Potomac Riverkeeper Network, who advocates for clean water. “This is unacceptable.”

Virginia is finding itself entangled in a rising national trend as it scrambles to address the spiraling farmland pollution crisis.

In Virginia, Synagro, a key player in providing sludge for fertilizer, is requesting permission to increase its sludge applications in rural areas, based on local accounts. Synagro operates under the Goldman Sachs Investment Fund.

In a statement, Kip Cleverley, Synagro’s Chief Sustainability Officer, noted that the presence of trace levels of PFAS does not necessarily indicate contamination. He emphasized that the company’s expansion into Virginia is independent of Maryland’s guidelines.

According to industry reports, over 2 million tons of dry sewage sludge were utilized on 4.6 million acres of farmland in 2018. Farmers estimate they have secured permission to apply sewage sludge on nearly 70 million acres, or about one-fifth of U.S. agricultural land.

However, increasing research indicates that this black sludge, also known as biosolids, may contain perfluoroalkyl substances or substantial levels of harmful PFAs, resulting from wastewater from homes and industries. These chemicals are believed to heighten the risk for certain cancers and lead to birth defects and developmental delays in children.

For residents in areas like Virginia Gardens, the historical birthplace of George Washington, the threat feels doubly unjust. Much of the biosolids delivered across state lines originate from major urban areas like Baltimore.

The pollution that locals fear flows off farmlands into nearby rivers and streams, endangering farmers and watermen who rely on these resources.

“Water runs off the farms into the waterways,” explained Leedale, a seventh-generation waterman and owner of the Northern Neck Oyster Company, as he navigated his oyster boat through the winding tributaries of the Potomac. “And we’re experiencing substantial rainfall this season.”

His concerns are substantiated. New research published in Nature indicates that PFAS in sludge used as fertilizer can contaminate both farmland and adjacent rivers and streams.

“That stream could be part of your drinking water supply, and downstream, contaminants could accumulate in fish,” remarked Diana Oviedo Vargas, a researcher at the nonpartisan Stroud Water Research Center, who led the federally funded study. “There’s a lot we are yet to understand, but these pollutants are unquestionably reaching our surface waters.”

This presents a complex issue. While sludge fertilizers are nutrient-rich and significantly reduce the need for incineration or landfill disposal, they also counterbalance the use of synthetic fertilizers derived from fossil fuels.

Nevertheless, studies have shown that sludge can harbor pathogens and chemicals like PFAs. Synthetic PFAS compounds are commonly found in everyday items such as non-stick cookware and stain-resistant carpets, and are associated with various diseases.

The EPA regulates several pathogens and heavy metals in sludge used as fertilizers but has not established regulations for PFAs. This year, the EPA issued its first warning regarding health risks linked to PFAs in sludge fertilizers. The Biden administration also introduced the first federal drinking water standard for PFAS, asserting that virtually no safe level of these substances exists.

The absence of federal regulations regarding PFAs in sludge has shifted responsibility to states, leading to a jumble of regulations and the transfer of contaminated sludge into areas with less stringent oversight.

Maine banned the use of sludge fertilizers in 2022, resulting in some sludge being shipped out of state as local landfills could not accommodate it.

Maryland has temporarily halted new permits for sludge use as fertilizer. The Maryland Department of the Environment has also mandated PFAS testing at all sewage treatment facilities statewide. Despite treatment processes, contaminants have been detected in both wastewater and sludge, and while protocols are in place, guidelines are being established to report and dispose of high-PFAS sludge amounts.

In Virginia, groups against the importation of Maryland’s sewage are advocating for state-level PFAS regulation in sludge.

Meanwhile, data from Virginia shows that sludge from Maryland is already being transferred. An analysis by the Potomac Riverkeeper Network indicates that biosolids from 22 Maryland wastewater treatment plants have been approved for use as fertilizer in Virginia, all reporting PFAS contamination.

In Westmoreland County, Synagro is dealing with sludge from 16 plants in Maryland, all indicating PFAS contamination.

In December, Synagro applied for a permit expansion to use sludge on an additional 2,000 acres of farmland in Westmoreland. Following local feedback prompting a hearing, Synagro withdrew the application but is expected to reapply.

In Essex County, Synagro seeks to increase sludge applications over another 6,000 acres, raising this area by a third, according to their permit application.

Cleverley from Synagro assured that the biosolids applied in Virginia comply with Maryland’s PFAS standards.

Irina Karos, a spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, mentioned that Virginia hasn’t seen a significant increase in the amount of Maryland biosolids applied. The state is still evaluating the request for Synagro’s expansion.

Karos also stated that Virginia is unaware of any biosolids from Maryland exceeding the recommended PFAS levels. Environmental organizations counter that verifying this is challenging.

Maryland spokesman Jay Apperson emphasized that the state’s guidelines and testing protocols aim to assist utilities and farmers while prioritizing public health.

Rob Hinton, a fourth-generation farmer at Cedar Plains Farm in Heathsville, Virginia, has cultivated corn, soybeans, and other crops for 45 years. He worries that farmers in the Northern Neck are not receiving fair treatment.

“It’s tempting when people offer something for free or nearly free. I don’t blame farmers for considering it,” he remarked. “But it’s these large cities that are sending their waste to us.”

“I learned about PFAS only after discussing it with friends in the waterman community,” he shared. “I’m unsure whether Virginia has conducted adequate testing.”

Synagro actively engages with farmers and local residents. During a presentation in March, Synagro representatives, alongside Virginia Tech researchers, shared data suggesting that the PFAS levels from sludge fertilizers were significantly lower than the levels indicated in previous studies, similar to slides reviewed by The New York Times.

Synagro stated it cannot provide comprehensive research verifications since the company isn’t directly involved. The Virginia Tech researchers mentioned did not respond to requests for comments.

At a Virginia Water Management Board meeting in March, Bryant Thomas, the state’s Environmental Quality director, reported receiving 27 public comments on Synagro’s proposal to expand sludge use in Essex County. Of these, 26 expressed concerns regarding the impact of sludge on public health and wildlife, particularly shellfish.

The board subsequently requested further investigation and a report from the agency.

“I find it interesting that while Maryland is revising its regulations, they are still sending biosolids to us in Virginia,” remarked Waterboard Chair Lou Anne Jesse Wallas in an interview. “We in Virginia must remain vigilant to protect our water and our citizens.”

Experts believe Maryland’s approach is a constructive first step. However, a bill introduced to further restrict PFAs in biosolids failed at the last moment. “We are concerned about the regulatory patchwork between states,” expressed Jean Zhuang, senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, an environmental nonprofit. “The federal government needs to step up.”

President Biden was poised to propose regulations limiting the discharges of PFAS by industrial facilities into wastewater. The Trump administration had previously rolled back this proposal but has recently indicated it may establish its own wastewater restrictions.

In the southern regions, the center is actively urging wastewater treatment facilities to demand local factories and industries clean up their wastewater before it reaches treatment plants. This would compel industries to manage contaminants at their sources or potentially eliminate the use of PFAs altogether, according to Zhuang.

“If a wastewater treatment plant takes action, then the industry will bear the costs of its pollution,” she noted.

On a recent evening, waterman Michael Lightfoot checked on a wire mesh cage of oysters raised in Jackson. He resides with his wife, Phyllis, in the creek. After nearly three decades in federal service, he retired in 2012 and has dedicated himself to waterman activities ever since.

Lightfoot is part of the ongoing oyster cultivation surge in Virginia, recognized as the top oyster producer on the East Coast and one of the largest in the nation. However, his proximity to the polluted farmland raises considerable concern for him. “There aren’t any farms in our waterways that aren’t discharging runoff,” he stated.

Source: www.nytimes.com

The Venice Biennale: A Magical Island Inspired by Mexico

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Small urban farms in Mexico City, referred to as Chinampas, employ a distinctive farming technique. Rather than transporting water to the land, Chinampas bring the land into the water.

Dating back over 1,000 years, the Chinampas were developed by Aztec farmers who constructed rectangular plots on expansive lakes to cultivate food for Tenochitlan. At one time, tens of thousands of these plots existed, organized in precise grids with narrow canals between them; however, many were damaged or abandoned after Hernan Cortes and his Spanish troops changed the region’s civil structure in 1521.

Yet, the Chinampas in Xochimilco continue to thrive in South Mexico City, despite pressures from developers and competition with industrial farms. The sustainable farming methods are gaining renewed interest amid the challenges of climate change and prolonged drought.

Could other regions around the globe adopt the concept of “floating islands,” as these fields are sometimes termed? A group of Mexican designers, landscapers, and farmers believes that this ancient technology could be adapted widely. They aim to replicate the Chinampas for their country’s pavilion at this year’s Venice Architectural Biennale.

“Chinampas boast a simple, clever design that has emerged collectively, benefiting not just people but all surrounding life,” remarked Lucio Usobia, who has dedicated the last 15 years to preserving the remaining Chinampas through his nonprofit, Arca Tierra.

The Mexican pavilion aligns perfectly with the major exhibition “Intelligent. Natural. Artificial.” The Chinampas are both artificial and organic, thriving only when there’s a close gaze on the rows of corn and inhabited plots, alongside farmers, policymakers, and tourists embarking on popular canoe tours.

Promoting the Chinampas as an eco-friendly design inspiration was an obvious choice for the Biennale, the team members stated. “Venice, built on water, shares vulnerabilities with Xochimilco,” mentioned Ana Paula Ruiz Galindo, the founder of the design company Pedro y Juana.

They highlighted that Venice and Xochimilco were both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the same year, 1987, and that both places are waterborne communities where boats navigate, striving to balance tourism’s benefits and drawbacks.

Venice boasts its iconic gondolas, while Xochimilco features brightly decorated flat boats, known as trajineras, which take visitors on festive rides. Both types of boats are maneuvered by pilots using long poles.

Creating a replica of the Chinampas on-site required imagination and compromise.

The Aztecs methodically built the islands over time using branches and reeds to establish borders at the bottom. This allowed for layered sediment and decomposed vegetation to accumulate until the islands emerged above the water’s surface for cultivation. In addition to crops like corn, beans, and squash, traditional agricultural methods known as milpas are also utilized to naturally enrich soil nutrients by planting trees at the island’s corners.

The Mexican pavilion is situated in the Biennale’s Arsenale complex, featuring a scaled-down version at a mere fraction of the typical 500 square meters (0.12 acres) of a traditional Chinampa. A video produced in Mexico City, showcasing authentic Chinamperos, enhances the exhibition, complemented by bleacher seating along the walls. Artificial light simulates sunlight for the plants.

At the center lies a functional garden filled with vegetables, flowers, and herbs. (The plants originated from Italian nurseries and were transported by boat to the Arsenale in mid-April.) They will be in full bloom during the Biennale, which runs until November 23rd.

“By the end of the Biennale, we can harvest corn and make tortillas,” Usobia shared. “Before that, we can gather beans, squash, tomatoes, and chili.”

Visitors will have a chance to learn about unique seed cultivation techniques specific to Chinampas and even plant their seedlings by themselves.

Acknowledging local agricultural practices, Chinampas will also incorporate a version of Vite Maritata, an ancient Etruscan method that involves planting grapes alongside trees, thus creating a natural trellis system for the grapes. The exhibition team is investigating the synergy between these two agricultural immersion methods, blending trees and crops into a cohesive ecosystem.

“We observe a dialogue between these ancient cultures and discuss how we can progress,” noted Usobia.

The exhibition team emphasized their intention to avoid overly romanticizing the Chinampas, acknowledging the challenges of scaling practices to feed today’s population. The farms thrive in Mexico City because they are situated in a lake, allowing for manageable water control levels. In contrast, Venice, located in a lagoon adjacent to the sea, faces constant threats from flooding.

Additionally, the economics of small farms are challenging, with high production costs and low yields making profitability difficult. Many farmworkers receive inadequate wages and the repetitive nature of planting and harvesting jobs has diminished their appeal.

“This is a significant concern here. Young people, in particular, are less inclined to work on Chinampa farms,” stated Maria Maria de Buen, the graphic designer for the team.

Indeed, many Chinampas in Xochimilco lie fallow as their owners struggle to make a living. Some have been repurposed into soccer fields for community rental, while others serve as venues for events like weddings and birthday parties. Despite official restrictions against development, cattle grazing, and hunting for endangered species, such activities occur frequently.

Still, the team perceives the crucial connection between nature and urban development, advocating for the integration of existing water resources within residential and educational spaces as essential inspiration. Architects visiting the Biennale may not be able to design extensive agricultural landscapes, but they can adapt existing conditions to replicate ideas on a smaller scale, suggested Jachen Schleich, principal of the Mexico City architectural firm Dellekamp + Schleich.

“If someone executes this in their backyard, they could at least feed their family, or the people on the fourth floor of their building. It could serve as a micro-intervention in a landscape or public space.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

U.S. Government Ceases Monitoring Costs of Extreme Weather Events

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced on Thursday that they will cease tracking the nation’s most costly disasters, those inflicting damages of at least $1 billion.

This decision means insurance firms, researchers, and policymakers will lack crucial data necessary for understanding trends associated with significant disasters like hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, which have become more prevalent this year. While not all disasters stem from climate change, such occurrences are intensifying as global temperatures rise.

This latest move marks another step by the Trump administration to restrict or eliminate climate research. Recently, the administration has rejected contributions to the country’s largest climate study, proposed cuts to grants for national parks addressing climate change, and unveiled a budget that would significantly reduce climate science funding at the U.S. Geological Survey, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Defense.

Researchers and lawmakers expressed their disapproval of this decision on Thursday.

Jesse M. Keenan, an associate professor and director of climate change and urbanism at Tulane University in New Orleans, stated that halting data collection will hinder federal and state governments in making informed budgetary and infrastructure investment decisions.

“It’s illogical,” he remarked. Without a comprehensive database, “the U.S. government will be blind to the financial impacts of extreme weather and climate change.”

In comments on Bluesky, Senator Ed Markey, a Democrat from Massachusetts, described this move as “anti-science, anti-secure, and anti-American.”

Virginia Iglesias, a climate researcher at the University of Colorado, emphasized that few organizations can replicate the unique information provided by this database. “This represents one of the most consistent and trustworthy records of climate-related economic losses in the nation,” she said. “The database’s strength lies in its reliability.”

The so-called billion-dollar disasters—those with costs exceeding ten digits—are on the rise. In the 1980s, there were, on average, three such events annually, adjusted for inflation. By contrast, between 2020 and 2024, the average rose to 23 per year.

Since 1980, the U.S. has experienced at least 403 of these incidents. Last year, there were 27, and this year is projected to see the second-highest number (28 events).

Last year’s incidents included Hurricane Helen and Milton, which together resulted in approximately $113 billion in damages and over 250 fatalities in Colorado. Additionally, drought conditions that year caused around $3 billion in damages and claimed more than 100 lives nationwide.

NOAA’s National Environmental Information Center plans to cease tracking these billion-dollar disasters as priorities, statutory mandates, and staffing change, according to an email from the agency.

When asked whether NOAA or another branch of the federal agency would continue to publicly report data on such disasters, the agency did not respond. The communication indicated that archived data from 1980 to 2024 would be available, but incidences from 2025, such as the recent wildfires in Los Angeles, will not be monitored or published.

“We can’t address problems that we don’t measure,” noted Erinsikorsky, director of the Climate Security Centre. “Without information regarding the costs of these disasters, Americans and Congress will remain unaware of the risks posed by climate change to our nation.”

Sikorsky highlighted that other agencies may struggle to replicate this data collection as it involves proprietary insurance information that companies are reluctant to share. “It’s a remarkably unique contribution.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Study Reveals Climate-Driven Wildfires Linked to Thousands of US Deaths

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies reveal that climate-induced wildfires lead to thousands of deaths each year and significant economic impacts due to wildfire smoke in the United States.

A paper published this Friday in the journal Nature Communications Earth & Environment indicates that between 2006 and 2020, climate change was responsible for approximately 15,000 deaths related to exposure to fine particulate matter from wildfires, totaling around $160 billion in costs. The findings suggest an annual mortality range from 130 to 5,100, particularly high in states like Oregon and California.

Nicholas Nacicus, an author of the research and a professor at Harvard Medical School, stated, “What does it really mean in a changing environment for outcomes like mortality?” stressing the serious health implications.

Lisa Thompson, a professor at Emory University who studies air pollution and climate change, noted that this study is among the first to distinctly identify the impacts of climate change on mortality. She emphasized the uniqueness of examining these effects temporally and spatially.

The study concentrated on deaths linked to particulate matter exposure, specifically PM2.5, a significant concern stemming from wildfire smoke.

These tiny particles penetrate deep into the lungs, causing short-term symptoms like coughing and irritation. Over time, they can worsen pre-existing health conditions and result in serious, potentially fatal issues. Vulnerable populations include children, pregnant individuals, the elderly, and outdoor workers. The Health Effects Institute estimated that pollutants have caused 4 million deaths globally.

Evidence suggests that PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is more harmful than other pollution sources. In wildfire situations, toxic materials like burning cars can exacerbate the health risks.

Numerous studies have linked the rise in wildfires in North America to human activities such as the burning of coal, oil, and gas. Climate change is intensifying drought conditions, particularly in the West, alongside other extreme weather phenomena. The drying process reduces moisture in vegetation, which serves as fuel for fires. Together with increasing temperatures, this leads to more frequent, widespread, and severe wildfires.

Scholars find the findings disheartening yet unsurprising

Jacob Bendix, a professor emeritus of geography and the environment at Syracuse University, expressed disappointment in the results, stating he was not surprised by the study’s conclusions.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Elon Musk’s XAI Engages in New Fundraising Discussions

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Xai, an AI startup founded by Elon Musk, is currently negotiating new funding that could elevate its valuation to between $80 billion and $120 billion, a notable increase from just over a month ago.

Sources speaking on condition of anonymity indicated that these discussions are in the preliminary stages and the company’s valuation could fluctuate as negotiations continue. Investors are contemplating a potential investment of $20 billion in Xai, though this figure may vary.

These discussions come on the heels of significant fundraising efforts by OpenAI, the San Francisco-based startup that announced a fundraising round valued at $300 billion in March. The launch of ChatGPT in late 2022 sparked an AI boom, leading to substantial investments in various AI companies, including Xai.

Presently, Xai is linked to Musk’s social media venture, X. In March, Musk claimed to have sold X to Xai, stating that the trading of all shares valued Xai at $80 billion and X at $33 billion. Xai’s earlier valuation from a funding round in December was approximately $40 billion.

Grok, a chatbot developed by Xai, is trained using data from X users and is accessible via the platform. According to X’s banker, a segment of the social media company’s revenue is derived from Xai.

Interest in AI firms waned towards the end of last year as numerous notable startups merged with major tech companies like Google and Amazon. Despite this, Xai and OpenAI remain among the few seeking billions to develop crucial AI technologies.

Musk has not responded to inquiries regarding Xai. Previous reports have detailed the ongoing discussions, as mentioned by Bloomberg.

(The New York Times has sued OpenAI and its partner Microsoft over allegations of copyright infringement concerning news content related to AI systems.)

Musk, along with entrepreneur Sam Altman and others, co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but departed from the organization about two years later following a disagreement over its direction when it was still a non-profit entity.

After Musk’s exit from OpenAI, Altman transitioned it into a for-profit model, enabling the acquisition of the significant funding required to advance AI technologies that learn by analyzing vast amounts of digital data.

Following the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, Musk established Xai, creating similar technology. Concurrently, Musk filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that OpenAI and its founders, Altman and Greg Brockman, had violated the company’s incorporation agreement by prioritizing commercial interests over public benefit. Musk eventually withdrew the lawsuit in August after initially reviving it in federal court months earlier.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Soviet Probe’s Imminent Crash with Earth: The Impact Location Remains Unknown

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Model of Kosmos 482, originally set for Venus

Wikimedia Commons

Over 50 years after its launch, the Soviet spacecraft Cosmos 482 is set to return to Earth. Initially designed to land on Venus, it began to disintegrate in low Earth orbit, never completing its intended mission. After orbiting our planet for decades, it is finally on a path to re-enter.

Kosmos 482 was launched in 1972; however, much about its mission and structure remains classified due to its Cold War origins. The intention to reach Venus is inferred from other Soviet missions focused on the planet at that time, and indications suggest that the spacecraft attempted a maneuver in orbit before fragmenting. The exact reason for its failure is unclear, but three out of four pieces landed in New Zealand shortly after launch.

The last fragment has drifted into a higher orbit, approximately 210 km at its closest to Earth and as far as about 9,800 km. Over time, particles from the Earth’s upper atmosphere have slowed its descent, gradually bringing it closer to re-entering. It is projected to crash on May 9th or 10th.

The capsule remains of the spacecraft are estimated to be over one meter wide and weigh nearly 500 kilograms. Given its size and the possibility that it was engineered to withstand the intense conditions during a Venusian descent, impact speeds may exceed 200 km/h.

Predicting the exact impact site for Kosmos 482 is challenging. Based on its current trajectory, it could land anywhere between the latitudes of 52° south and 52° north, covering a vast area from the southern tip of South America to parts of Canada and Russia. Fortunately, despite the extensive range of potential landing sites, the likelihood of it striking a populated area is minimal. “The numbers are infinitesimally small,” stated Marsin Pilinsky from the University of Colorado Boulder. statement. “The ocean is a likely landing zone.”

Pilinsky is part of a team monitoring the debris. As the re-entry date approaches, landing predictions will become more accurate. Instances of space debris falling to Earth are not rare; for instance, NASA tracks one orbital object entering the atmosphere daily, with most either burning up or landing in oceans. However, Kosmos 482 is notably larger and more robust than typical space debris.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Trump Administration Reduces NIH Grants by Over $1.8 Billion

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Trump administration discontinued its $18.1 billion grant to the National Institutes of Health within just 40 days.

This information comes from an analysis published in JAMA on Thursday, which utilizes data from the Department of Health and Human Services to monitor accountability within the government grant system.

The analysis offers the most extensive overview to date regarding the reduction of NIH funding following the Trump administration’s significant efforts to eliminate perceived waste and inefficiency in federal spending.

Michael Liu, a student at Harvard Medical School, noted that while some grants are still uncertain due to new terminations and temporary revivals due to court orders, the HHS grant tracker remains the most reliable and current dataset available.

From February 28th to April 8th, the administration processed close to 700 grants at 24 NIH labs and centers, concentrating on areas such as aging, cancer, child health, diabetes, mental disorders, and neuropathy.

“These cuts haven’t been evenly distributed,” Liu remarked. “The National Institute on Health and Health Disparities in Minority has faced the steepest reductions, with approximately 30% of its funding cut—ten times the average.”

President Trump’s upcoming budget proposal aims to eliminate all funding for the National Institute focused on health disparities among minorities, labeling the Institute as “full of DEI spending.” His January executive order called for the cessation of a program centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The proposal also suggests an overall reduction in NIH funding, slashing its budget for the next fiscal year to $27 billion, a decrease of around $18 billion, which would eliminate gender-focused research and studies on climate change. The administration plans to emphasize research on chronic diseases and other epidemics.

So far, most NIH grants that have been finalized have been directed toward research projects, with about 20% allocated to early career grants, training, or development. The analysis indicates that larger grants are more prone to termination, though it’s unclear if they were intentionally targeted based on the data.

“These sizable grants typically support large clinical trials and extensive research centers,” Liu explained. “Halting these initiatives is incredibly damaging, as it prevents patients from receiving necessary medications or interventions.”

Liu also pointed out that the analysis suggests that the rescinded grants are severely disrupted by both public and private institutions.

Among the grant recipients, Columbia University faced the highest number of terminations, totaling 157. The Trump administration targeted Columbia for funding cuts, citing “ongoing omissions at schools amid the persistent harassment of Jewish students” following significant Palestinian protests on campus. Columbia recently laid off 180 staff members associated with federal grants affected by these cuts.

“Columbia’s leadership continues to engage with the federal government to seek a resolution for resuming these research activities,” an official wrote in a letter to the Columbia community. “We are actively planning to address all potential contingencies, but tensions with federal authorities impact our financial situation and our research mission.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Science Reveals Dropping Eggs on Their Side Reduces the Risk of Cracking

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent survey published in the journal Communication Physics reveals that eggs are more likely to crack when they fall on their sides.

What implications does this have for cracking eggs? Eggs for breakfast? It may not matter significantly. The middle section remains intact while the Golden Fork fills with escaping whites.

Scientists suggest that this knowledge could aid in cooking stubborn eggs: dropping them horizontally may prevent a destructive crack that leads to a messy, cloudy interior.

Common belief holds that eggs are strongest at their edges, as demonstrated by their packaging in cartons. It’s thought that the curved base of the egg helps distribute force and minimize impact.

However, during compression tests, scientists found that eggs cracked with the same force regardless of the direction of pressure.

“The fun started when I expected one outcome and got another,” remarked Hudson Borja da Rocha from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who was involved in the experiment.

The researchers conducted simulations, releasing eggs from three heights in both horizontal and vertical orientations, ranging down to 0.4 inches (10 mm).

The outcome? Fewer eggs broke when dropped horizontally.

“Conventional wisdom holds that vertical eggs are stronger than they appear, but this research shows otherwise,” stated Mark Myers, a materials scientist at the University of California, San Diego, who was not part of the study.

The research found that the equator of the egg is more flexible and can absorb more energy from a fall before breaking.

Eggs are often used in at-home experiments for egg drop challenges, which has partly inspired this new research. It remains uncertain whether these findings will help safeguard these delicate eggs.

Tal Cohen, a co-author from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, noted that it’s somewhat counterintuitive that the rectangular sides of the egg can better endure falls.

Countless broken eggs illustrate “the bravery to question these widely accepted notions.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Potential Eruption Imminent for Underwater Volcano off Oregon’s Coast

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

An underwater volcano, located approximately 300 miles from the Oregon coast, seems to be reawakening.

Researchers monitoring this extensive submarine volcano over the years report that it may erupt due to recent signs of activity, such as nearby earthquake increases and inflation of the volcano’s structure.

Bill Chadwick, a volcanologist and research professor at Oregon State University, forecasts that the volcano, known as Axial Seamount, could erupt at any moment before the year’s end.

3D representation of the Axial Seamount’s marine bottom.
Oregon State University

Chadwick and his team at the University of Washington and the University of North Carolina Wilmington leverage networks of underwater sensors to monitor volcanoes.

Recently, these instruments detected signs of unrest within the volcano. For instance, in late March and early April, researchers recorded over 1,000 earthquakes daily. The ongoing swelling of the volcano indicates it is filled with molten rock, according to Chadwick.

“This volcano is akin to Hawaiian volcanoes that erupt highly fluid lava,” he stated. “They tend to expand like balloons during eruptions. At Axial, the seafloor is actually rising, which is a significant indicator.”

However, unlike some Hawaiian volcanoes, there is minimal risk to human life if the Axial Seamount erupts.

Being hundreds of miles offshore and submerged about a mile deep in the ocean ensures that even powerful eruptions go unnoticed on land.

“There’s no explosive activity, so it really won’t impact people,” Chadwick remarked. “If you were on a boat nearby during an eruption, you likely wouldn’t even notice it.”

That said, such an eruption can still be a remarkable event. Researchers noted that the last eruption of Axial Seamount in 2015 released massive amounts of magma.

“For perspective, it’s roughly two-thirds the height of Seattle’s Space Needle,” Chadwick explained. “That’s a substantial amount of lava.”

The Axial Seamount formed over a geophysical hot spot, where a plume of molten rock rises from the Earth’s mantle to the crust. This geological process is common; hotspot volcanoes are found across the seabed, with some forming chains of islands like those in Hawaii and Samoa. What sets Axial Seamount apart is its position along the boundary of the Pacific and Juan de Fuca plates. The separation of these plates and the pressure that builds beneath the seafloor consistently drive volcanic activity and create new oceanic crust in the region.

A map displaying the relationship of Axial Seamount to the Cascadia subduction zone and the Mendocino fracture zone.
Susan Merule / Oregon State University

Chadwick has observed the activities of Axial Seamount for three decades, with eruptions recorded in 1998, 2011, and 2015.

As he and his colleagues anticipate a potential eruption, they are exploring whether patterns of activity at Axial Seamount offer reliable predictions for when an underwater volcano may erupt.

However, accurately predicting eruptions remains a challenging endeavor. Volcanoes can behave unpredictably, and their warning signs can vary significantly.

“They are full of surprises,” commented Scott Nooner, a geophysics professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. “It’s uncertain whether magma is still moving beneath the Earth’s surface.”

Scientists have achieved some success with short-term predictions—usually just hours prior to an eruption—to help local authorities decide on evacuations or other necessary precautions. Long-term predictions, however, remain elusive.

This is why, according to Nooner, Axial Seamount serves as an excellent natural laboratory for testing eruption prediction models.

“On land, predicting an eruption weeks or months in advance can lead to substantial financial and emotional costs if incorrect. Luckily, eruptions at Axial Seamount don’t endanger anyone, so it’s safer to test models and refine predictions here without the same consequences as on land,” he concluded.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Meta Blocks Instagram Accounts of Prominent Indian Muslims Amid Escalating Conflict

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Meta has prohibited well-known Muslim news pages on Indian Instagram at the request of the government, with the account’s founder labeling the action as “censorship” that intensifies tensions between India and Pakistan.

An Indian Instagram user attempted to access a post from the account @muslim, which boasts 6.7 million followers. “Accounts not available in India. This is due to compliance with legal requirements restricting this content.”

There was no swift response from the Indian government regarding the ban, which followed a predicament where Pakistani actors and cricketers were blocked from their social media accounts.

“We’ve received numerous messages and comments from our Indian followers unable to access our account,” stated Ameer Al-Khatahtbeh, founder and editor of the news account. “Meta blocked the @muslim account following legal requests from the Indian government. This action is censorship.”

Meta chose not to comment, with a spokesperson referencing the company’s webpage that outlines their policy of restricting content if the government deems it “against local laws.”

This situation, first reported by US technology journalist Taylor Lorenz, has led to heightened violence between India and Pakistan—the most severe in two decades for these nuclear-armed nations.

Following New Delhi’s deadly missile strike against its rival, both countries engaged in heavy artillery exchanges along the disputed border.

At least 43 fatalities were reported amid the conflict, occurring two weeks after India accused Pakistan of supporting a deadly attack on tourists in the contested regions of Kashmir.

Pakistan has declined to file charges and warned it would seek “revenge” for those killed in India’s airstrikes.

The @muslim account ranks among the most-followed Muslim news sources on Instagram. Khatahtbeh expressed regret to his Indian followers, stating: “When platforms and nations attempt to silence the media, it highlights their role in holding powerful entities accountable.”

“We will persist in documenting the truth and standing firmly for justice,” he stated, urging Meta to restore access to the account for Indian users.

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India has also prohibited over a dozen Pakistani YouTube channels for allegedly disseminating “provocative” content, encompassing Pakistani news outlets.

Recently, access to the Instagram account of former Pakistan Prime Minister and cricket captain Imran Khan has also been restricted in India.

Fawad Khan and Atif Aslam, noted figures in Pakistani Bollywood films, have also been rendered off-limits in India, along with numerous cricketers including stars Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, and retired icons Shahid Afridi and Wasim Akram.

The escalating tensions between these South Asian neighbors have fostered a surge of online misinformation, with social media users mislabeling everything from deepfake videos to outdated images from unrelated conflicts to these Indian airstrikes.

On Wednesday, Donald Trump urged both India and Pakistan to cease hostilities promptly, offering assistance to quell the violence.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Are Snails a Better Metaphor for Big Data Than Whales?

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback brings you the latest in science and technology news from New Scientist, alongside the latest updates in the field. You can reach out to Feedback@newscientist.com to share intriguing items that may captivate our readers.

The Collapse of a Whale

This section focuses on unusual measurement units and how to effectively communicate information scales. Keen readers may remember discussing how Christopher Dionne’s large datasets can be related to the blue whale genome (April 12).

Bruce Horton remarks that it’s a solid analogy. “The major takeaway from using the blue whale’s size for reference is that most people are familiar with it, making size visualization easier for the audience,” he explains. “However, few people can visualize blue whale DNA, which undermines this analogy.”

He raises a valid point. The concept still echoes the early 2000s during the Human Genome Project, which created comparisons to illustrate the vastness of DNA information. Often, these comparisons included stacks of Bibles reaching to the moon. Nowadays, we utilize what’s gathered from The Wheel of Time series.

Fortunately, Bruce offers a clever solution. He references a 2005 study from the Parody Science Journal. An Unlikely Research Chronicle highlights a study involving slugs: Snail-Based Data Transfer Protocol. Researchers placed giant African land snails on a two-wheeled cart with CD or DVD wheels. Although snails moved slowly, they transferred data at a speed of 37,000 kilobytes per second, outperforming current broadband connections.

The study concluded that this method is easy to visualize and comprehend, making it generally recommended.

Bruce suggests we await further developments and introduces a new unit conceptualized by Ken Taylor and his wife. They own an orchard with a damson tree known for its erratic annual yield. Consequently, they’ve coined the term “cramble,” denoting the quantity of desserts one can create per harvest. Ken shared, “2024 was particularly disappointing, yielding only three crumbles.”

Stunning Discoveries

“Who would have thought it?” news editor Alexandra Thompson remarked, turning heads toward the feedback section when she encountered a press release titled: “Some SUVs Heighten Risks of Death or Severe Injury, New Research Shows.”

The stark reality reveals that large SUVs pose a greater risk of fatal collisions compared to smaller vehicles. One might expect feedback to respond with sarcasm regarding this apparent truth: indeed, heavier objects will impart more force than lighter ones at equivalent speeds. Yet, a fundamental virtue of science is to challenge common knowledge instead of simply affirming it.

Here, we invite contributions for the category “No Kidding, Sherlock.” The more distressing and obvious the revelation, and the lengthier the methodical experimentation, the better. If ants invade, does it diminish our enjoyment of picnics? If a faucet leaks, does my water bill increase? I’d appreciate at least one enlightening question.

Licking the Badger

Historian Greg Jenner made a surprising discovery in April, stating on Blue Sky: “If you input a random sentence into Google and append ‘meaning,’ you’ll receive an AI-generated explanation for the idiom or phrase you’ve concocted.”

This is how Greg’s quirky phrase, “You can’t lick a badger twice,” prompted Google AI to interpret it as “You can’t deceive someone twice after they’ve already learned your trick.” However, to be fair, interpretations may vary among the US populace. Moreover, these constructions are often artificially generated. Nevertheless, that didn’t deter AI from dispensing extensive explanations. “In this context, ‘licking’ suggests cheating or misleading someone.” The badger anecdote does not hold any factual foundation.

Many submitted their own unique phrases with Google’s analyses. For example, Kit Yates coined, “Don’t run the miles without hitting it with a hammer,” interpreted as “a motivational phrase emphasizing the struggles involved in achieving goals.” Feedback especially appreciated its “frequent” occurrence in torrents of nonsensical dialogues.

Kai Kupferschmidt shared, “It’s better to have tentacles in the tent than mice on rat chairs.” Google deemed it “a humorous idiom, suggesting it’s preferable to find oneself in an uncomfortable situation rather than in a more perilous one.” Feedback found many amusing aspects in this, but it begs the question: why are illicit tentacles seen as uncomfortable, yet not dangerous? A nod to HP Lovecraft indicates tentacles are rarely a good sign.

Regrettably, the “meaning” feature appears to be disabled now. I attempted to coax Google into explaining “Don’t rub Roe Deer’s Cabbages,” but to no avail.

While utilizing AI to generate AI responses can yield novel answers, it won’t prevent individuals from concocting nonsensical excuses rather than admitting they lack knowledge.

This situation underscores the challenge of integrating technology into platforms that aim to serve as precise information sources. Currently, Feedback harbors a lack of trust in Google’s findings. Ironically, this suggests that AI may indeed be correct: one cannot truly lick a badger twice.

Have you provided feedback?

You can send your stories to feedback@newscientist.com, including your home address. This week’s feedback and past editions are available on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Wikipedia Challenges UK Laws it Claims Threaten Its “Operation and Viability”

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The charity that operates Wikipedia is contesting the UK’s online safety legislation in the High Court, arguing that certain regulations put the site at risk of “operation and vandalism.”

This case could mark the first judicial review concerning online safety laws. The Wikimedia Foundation contends that it faces the danger of being subjected to the stringent Category 1 obligations that impose additional requirements on the largest websites and applications.

The Foundation has stated that enforcing a Category 1 obligation could jeopardize the safety and privacy of Wikipedia’s volunteer editors, potentially leading to the manipulation and destruction of entries, while diverting resources away from the site’s protection and enhancement.

Phil Bradley Schmieg, the Foundation’s lead attorney, announced plans to pursue a judicial review of the classification regulations.

The Foundation clarifies that it is not disputing the entire act or the existence of the requirements but is questioning the process that determines how a platform is designated as Category 1.

These regulations were established in secondary legislation by technical secretary Peter Kyle. The Foundation is challenging Kyle’s decision to implement these statutory measures through a judicial review that evaluates the legality of decisions in the High Court of England and Wales.

According to one interpretation of the Category 1 obligations, the Foundation noted that if it opts not to authenticate Wikipedia users and editors, anonymous users would need to grant other contributors the power to block modifications or deletions of content. This is part of the legal measures aimed at addressing online trolling.

Consequently, thousands of volunteer editors would be required to undergo identity verification, conflicting with the Foundation’s commitment to minimizing data collection about its readers and contributors.

Violations of this law could result in penalties such as an £18 million fine or 10% of the company’s global revenue, and potentially, in extreme cases, access to services could be restricted in the UK.

Bradley-Schmieg emphasized that the volunteer community, which operates in over 300 languages, could face “data breaches, stalking, troubling litigation, and even incarceration by authoritarian regimes.”

“Privacy is fundamental to keeping our users safe and empowered. Designed for social media, this is just one of many Category 1 obligations that could severely impact Wikipedia,” he stated.

The Foundation argues that the definition of Category 1 services is both broad and ambiguous, encompassing the ability to share or display content. It also refers to “popular” sites, focusing on usage patterns rather than the nature of the platform’s use.

“I regret that the circumstances have compelled me to request a judicial review of the OSA classification regulations,” Bradley-Schmieg remarked. “It is particularly unfortunate that we must safeguard the privacy and security of Wikipedia’s volunteer editors from flawed legislation when the intent of the OSA is to make the online environment in the UK safer.”

In response, a spokesperson for the UK government stated, “We are dedicated to implementing online safety laws to foster a secure online space for everyone. We cannot comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Key U.S. Cities, Including New York and Seattle, Are Sinking at Alarming Rates

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New York City’s skyline may undergo significant changes as major cities continue to sink.

Gary Hershorn/Getty Images

Over 20 of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States are experiencing subsidence, impacting thousands of structures and millions of residents.

This phenomenon has been noted especially in coastal areas. However, utilizing satellite technology that gauges the duration it takes radar signals to reach the Earth’s surface and return, researchers discovered that 25 out of the 28 largest cities in the country are affected.

“By analyzing multiple images taken over time from the same region, we can identify subtle vertical shifts in the ground that can reach several millimeters annually,” explains team member Manoochehr Shirzaei from Virginia Tech. “It’s akin to capturing a high-resolution time lapse of the Earth’s surface, revealing whether it is rising or sinking over time.”

Fort Worth, Houston, and Dallas demonstrate the highest rates of subsidence among major cities, averaging over 4 millimeters per year. Cities like New York, Chicago, Houston, Columbus, Seattle, and Denver show average subsidence rates surpassing 2 millimeters annually.

“Houston, the fastest sinking city among the 28 most populous in the US, has 42% of its land area sinking at rates greater than 5 mm per year, with 12% sinking faster than 10 mm annually,” researchers reported.

Most subsidence is attributed to groundwater extraction, although cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, primarily experience sinking due to “glacial isoplasm regulation.”

“During the last glacial period, these regions were covered by massive ice sheets. The considerable weight of the ice compressed the Earth’s crust, akin to resting on a memory foam mattress,” says Shirzaei. As the ice melted thousands of years ago, the pressure released and the terrain began to slowly recover,” he explains.

“However, this rebound isn’t uniform,” Shirzaei notes. “In some areas, particularly along the East Coast and in the Midwest, the land is subsiding rather than rising due to the residual weight of nearby ice and their proximity to regions currently collapsing.”

In Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco, plate tectonics may account for some of the subsidence.

“We must address sinking as a gradually unfolding disaster,” Shirzaei argues. Researchers also noted that cities can sink at varying rates in different locations or sink continuously in one area while other regions remain stable. “This uneven movement can create angular distortions and stress, resulting in cracks in walls and foundations, misalignments in windows and doors, or even significant structural failures,” Shirzaei warns.

Jesse Cars from Kyoto University in Japan demonstrated similar findings using satellite data, showing that many cities in New Zealand are also experiencing subsidence. “A crucial challenge for the geophysical community remains understanding how the observed trends stem from particular causes, whether they are artificial or naturally occurring geological processes,” he states.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Bill Gates Shares Vision for Shutting Down the Gates Foundation by 2045

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Donald Trump represents the forefront of these funding cuts, but the harsh realities of his administration are just part of the narrative. Following a surge in the 2000s, contributions to global health stagnated throughout the 2010s. The landscape of charitable giving has also shifted notably in the era of pledges. The wealthiest individuals globally have committed to donating over half of their fortunes to various causes. After Gates’ divorce in 2021, Melinda eventually departed the foundation to pursue her own philanthropic endeavors. Recently, long-time ally Warren Buffett announced his plan to channel most of his remaining wealth into a charitable trust; his children will manage this, and he will not provide any additional funds to the Gates Foundation beyond his passing. Following a slowdown after the Covid years, this year saw a decline in foreign aid—Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation, recently wrote in The Economist about falling aid levels, describing it as “falling off a cliff.”

On the ground, progress has been uneven, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic emergency, which led to the suspension of many routine vaccination programs, leaving the world’s poorest nations in severe debt distress. While the proportion of the global population living in extreme poverty fell by nearly three-quarters from 1990 to 2014, that progress has stalled since then.

This is the crucial moment to reflect on Gates and his team’s narrative—given the gap between post-pandemic setbacks and the challenges posed by Trump’s policies, the Gates Foundation will emphasize once more the potential of biomedical tools and life-saving innovations in the current development landscape, including advancements in AI. They envision a future where the Gates Foundation is no longer needed. This vision is undeniably attractive. But with the challenges ahead, can it truly be realized?

During two days in late April, I engaged in discussions with Gates about the current state and legacy of his philanthropy, reviewing both accomplishments and setbacks thus far, as well as the challenges yet to come. Below is a revised, condensed account of those conversations, capturing his optimistic, detailed, confident, and at times bold perspective as he describes the coming decades as an “era of miracles,” representing even more fundamental advancements than he has previously cited.

I. “Millions of Additional Child Deaths”

Let’s discuss the current tensions surrounding the Trump administration. It appears that the administration is poised to abandon foreign aid entirely, leaving millions of people and many global institutions in jeopardy. How dire is this situation?

Source: www.nytimes.com

Doctors Report Immigrants Avoiding Medical Care Due to Fear of ICE

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A man lay on the sidewalk in New York City, injured by a gunshot, holding his side.

Emily Bolgaard, a social worker providing supplies to the homeless through her nonprofit, discovered him and prepared to call 911. Nonetheless, the man pleaded with her not to make the call.

“No, no, no,” he insisted.

Bolgaard attempted to reassure him that federal law mandated hospitals to treat patients regardless of immigration status, but his fear was palpable.

“He expressed, ‘If I go to the emergency department, I’ll be on their radar,'” she recounted in an interview about the event.

Across the nation, healthcare professionals are increasingly worried that individuals with severe medical issues, including injuries and chronic illnesses, are forgoing treatment due to fears of arrest by immigration officials. After the Trump administration’s announcement of extensive deportation plans, the Biden administration’s strategy of safeguarding areas like hospitals and clinics has led to a noticeable increase in patient anxiety and a decrease in treatment uptake.

If this trend persists, healthcare professionals indicate that the consequences could be severe. Uncontrolled infectious diseases could spread, healthcare costs would rise due to untreated chronic conditions, and complications during childbirth may pose increased risks to women delaying care.

In a KFF survey, 31% of immigrants reported concerns that their status (or that of family members) could adversely affect their health. About 20% of all surveyed migrants shared struggles with diet and sleep, while 31% experienced increased stress and anxiety.

A White House representative did not respond to a request for comment. Following the announcement on January 21 to end protections at hospitals, a statement from the Department of Homeland Security indicated that the updated policy was “designed to enforce immigration laws and apprehend criminal foreigners.”

Research indicates that immigration enforcement actions are associated with deterioration in birth outcomes, negative mental health effects, decreased care access, and reduced public program utilization that alleviates illness and poverty.

“We are not only creating significant health risks, but also long-term economic risks for our nation,” stated Julie Linton, a pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Federal Committee. “These policies instill very real fear and uncertainty among people, drastically impacting their daily functioning.”

Chronic Conditions

Numerous immigrant communities grapple with a high prevalence of chronic diseases, including hypertension and diabetes. Without treatment, this can lead to serious complications like heart attacks and strokes.

Doctors express concern for patients like Maria, a 47-year-old pre-diabetic woman who has visited the same primary care clinic since arriving in the U.S. from El Salvador two decades ago. Even during the first Trump administration’s crackdown on immigrants, she sought medical care consistently. However, after protections around hospitals were lifted earlier this year, Maria canceled her appointment to check her blood sugar.

“We are in the clinic and deeply afraid of ICE arriving while we wait,” she said in Spanish.

Maria, who requested to remain anonymous, described herself as being in “continuous anguish.” She is formulating a plan to care for her American citizen child in the event she and her husband are deported.

One of her daughters, aged 15, is being treated for fatty liver disease, while another child requires care for developmental issues. Their eldest daughter has a doctor’s appointment scheduled for June. Maria and her husband wish to continue their child’s treatment but are apprehensive about attending appointments alone. “It’s very complicated,” Maria said. “I can risk myself for my child, but when it comes to my own health, I prefer to let it go.”

The repercussions of forgoing regular medical care can escalate quickly. Jim Manzia, president of St. John’s Community Health Network in Los Angeles, described a diabetic patient who ceased attending weekly diabetes education classes. Upon contacting her, the clinic staff discovered she was too terrified to even go grocery shopping and had subsisted on tortillas and coffee for days.

“We’re thankful we managed to reach her and that she came in,” Manzia noted. The network serves approximately 25,000 undocumented patients across more than 20 locations. Clinic exams indicated her blood sugar levels were dangerously elevated.

“This is becoming increasingly common,” Manzia lamented. “It breaks my heart to discuss these situations.”

Acute Care

In emergency care settings, doctors have noted several unusual indicators reflecting the impact of immigration enforcement. For instance, Dr. Amy Zidan, an emergency physician in Atlanta, reported a more than 60% decline in requests for Spanish interpretation in her hospital’s emergency department from January to February.

Theresa Cheng, an ER physician at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, recounted an incident where one of her residents cared for an immigrant patient who had sustained multiple facial fractures from an assault but hadn’t sought care for over two weeks. “There is an overwhelming sense of fear,” Dr. Cheng stated.

In late January, Dr. Cheng treated a patient with severely untreated diabetes. The undocumented woman shared her terror and had been waiting for assistance. Tragically, she passed away that same day.

Dr. Carolina Miranda, a family physician in the Bronx, discussed a patient granted legal asylum, yet fearing ICE, who missed an appointment regarding a potential brain tumor.

Similar delays and cancellations have been observed among pregnant women and new mothers nationwide. Dr. Caitlyn Bernard, an obstetrician in Indiana, noted a patient who skipped a postnatal visit, indicating she no longer felt safe leaving her house. Staff on the obstetrics floor of a San Diego hospital reported a significant drop in immigrant women experiencing acute pregnancy-related issues following the administration change.

“These women undeniably still exist,” a doctor, choosing to remain anonymous due to institutional restrictions on public statements, expressed. “I fear this will drive up maternal mortality rates over time.”

Children’s Health

Many children of immigrant parents who skip appointments or leave prescriptions unfilled are American citizens. In mixed-status families, parents facing deportation often hesitate to bring their children to clinics or pharmacies.

Pediatricians serving underserved populations in Central Coast California reported a 30% increase in missed child appointments. Many families who sought professional care for their children, including evaluations for speech therapy and autism, cited fear as a barrier, with some wishing to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of their situations.

Dr. Tania Caballero, a pediatrician at Johns Hopkins, has encountered parents reluctant to visit emergency rooms, including those with children suffering from chronic conditions such as cerebral palsy, asthma, and diabetes.

“I tell my patients, ‘I cannot control what happens outside of my clinic. I can’t ensure against an ICE visit, but you know me, and I possess the resources to help you navigate this journey together,'” she explained.

Some parents facing dire circumstances, like those of children undergoing cancer treatment, believed their child’s medical conditions might shield them. They sought letters from pediatricians outlining their child’s medical needs, hoping this information would convince immigration authorities to allow them to remain in the U.S. for survival.

Dr. Lisa Gwyn, a pediatrician in South Florida, reported alarming drops in patient attendance as families from the Caribbean and South America miss essential pediatric vaccinations needed to prevent illnesses like measles, pneumonia, and whooping cough.

Dr. Gwyn also expressed concern for children who have endured significant trauma before arriving in the U.S. and who are not connected with social workers or psychologists for needed support.

“Imagine a child living in a home filled with fear. They came to this country hoping to find safety, only to feel afraid again,” she said. “We understand that prolonged stress negatively impacts health. Children who are stressed perform poorly in school and often battle mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.”

Hospital Dilemma

Some medical facilities have stated they will comply with immigration authorities. NYU Langone has issued warnings to employees cautioning against attempting to shield undocumented patients. However, many other health centers and organizations are finding ways to protect their patients by displaying “Know Your Rights” information and advising staff not to log immigration status in patients’ medical records.

Last week, the New England Journal of Medicine published an article detailing how physicians continue to provide healthcare while legally distancing themselves from ICE requests.

The St. John’s Clinic Network in Los Angeles recently instituted an ambitious home visit initiative where doctors, nurses, and medical assistants conduct examinations and deliver medication, working to inform all undocumented patients of this service.

The New York Regional Hospital Association proposed designating a “hospital contact” to quickly guide law enforcement to private offices, emphasizing the necessity of viewing signed warrants.

In the emergency department at University Hospital, a safety-net facility in Newark, staff distribute cards in Spanish and other languages to remind patients of their rights, stating, “You have the right to refuse consent to searches of yourself, your car, or your home.”

Yet, fear remains palpable. Dr. Annaly M. Baker, an emergency physician, recounted witnessing a young woman who had been beaten unconscious waiting for hours to receive care.

Dr. Baker also attended to a minor who had been stabbed but required parental consent for treatment. The boy was reluctant to provide details, fearing that his parents might be caught in immigration enforcement.

What troubles Dr. Baker most is the number of people who never seek treatment at all.

“The tragic message to these individuals is to remain hidden, and I hope you don’t die,” she remarked.

Sarah Cliff contributed to this report.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Essential Information About mRNA Vaccines

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised concerns about the safety of mRNA vaccines for Covid-19. Scientists have sought funding from the National Institutes of Health: Scrub their grants of mRNA references. State legislatures nationwide are debating bills that aim to ban or limit these vaccines. Weapons of mass destruction.

Messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have gained significant attention recently, though they were first discovered in 1961. Since then, scientists have explored their potential in preventing infections and treating cancer and rare diseases.

What is mRNA?

mRNA is a large molecule present in all cells, serving as a template to produce the proteins encoded by our DNA. It carries instructions from the DNA in the nucleus to the cell’s protein synthesis machinery. According to Jeff Koller, a professor of RNA biology and therapy at Johns Hopkins University, a single mRNA molecule can generate multiple copies of a protein, and is designed to break down after fulfilling its role.

How do mRNA vaccines work?

Currently, there are three FDA-approved mRNA vaccines for older adults. These vaccines utilize strands of mRNA that encode specific viral proteins.

Upon receiving a Covid-19 vaccine, the mRNA chains, encapsulated in tiny fat particles, enter muscle and immune cells, explained Robert Alexander Wesselhoif, director of the RNA Therapy Institute at Mass General Brigham’s Institute of Genetic and Cell Therapy. These intracellular factories then use mRNA instructions to produce proteins resembling those on the Covid-19 virus surface. The body perceives these proteins as foreign, triggering an immune response.

While most mRNA degrades within days, the body keeps a “memory” in the form of antibodies, noted Dr. Koller. As with other vaccines, immunity may wane over time, requiring updates for new variants.

Why are mRNA vaccines being used now?

In the mid-2000s, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered a method to introduce foreign mRNA into human cells without it degrading first, paving the way for vaccine development.

Currently, the primary application of these vaccines is to prevent infectious diseases like Covid-19 and RSV, according to Dr. Wesselhoeft, who founded a company focused on RNA therapy. mRNA vaccines can be developed quickly, as the non-RNA components remain consistent across different vaccines.

This rapid development could aid in creating annual flu vaccines, stated Florian Krammer, a virologist from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Typically, choice of flu vaccine strains is made in late winter, but mRNA vaccines can adapt more swiftly, allowing for better efficacy against circulating strains.

Are these vaccines safe?

A common question is whether mRNA vaccines can impact DNA. Dr. Boucher clarified that this is not possible; mRNA cannot be converted into DNA or integrated into the genome.

Covid-19 vaccines may cause temporary muscle pain and other mild side effects, as noted by Dr. Krammer.

Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infection specialist in New York, remarked that in the over four years since the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, there have been “no long-term safety signals.” He noted parental concerns regarding myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, but emphasized that the risks associated with actual Covid-19 infections far outweigh those of vaccination.

What additional applications does mRNA have?

mRNA-based vaccines may target a variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes, and rare diseases such as cystic fibrosis.

For cancer, the concept is that mRNA can encode tumor-associated proteins, prompting an immune response against tumors. In genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis, mRNA can produce a functional version of a missing protein, restoring normal function in affected tissues.

A recent paper published in Nature outlined an experimental mRNA vaccine for pancreatic cancer, which elicited immune responses in some patients post-surgery. Those who experienced immune activation had improved survival rates compared to those who did not.

Another study on monkeys investigated inhaled mRNA therapy aimed at producing proteins necessary for cilia formation, which play a crucial role in clearing mucus in the airways. This therapy targets dysfunctions associated with primary ciliary dyskinesia.

This research is in its preliminary stages, with the Phase I trial for pancreatic cancer involving only 16 patients, which may lead to variability in survival outcomes. Dr. Stephen Rosenberg, an expert in cancer immunotherapy at the National Cancer Institute, has indicated that interventions can stimulate immune responses without significantly altering patient outcomes.

Dr. Richard Boucher, a pulmonary scientist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, noted that targeting the correct cells with mRNA-carrying particles for lung diseases is particularly challenging.

Overall, Dr. Ratner described mRNA vaccines as “exciting” and holding promise for treating conditions where prior technologies have struggled. However, he cautioned that mRNA therapies should be seen as one of many drug technologies, with varying efficacy depending on the illness.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Study Confirms Climate Change Intensified April Floods

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Severe thunderstorms in April resulted in historic downpours and flooding across Arkansas, Kentucky, and other states, exacerbated by climate change.

This information comes from the World Weather Attributes Project, a consortium of scientists studying major weather events in relation to climate change.

From April 3 to April 6, heavy rainfall hit the southeastern U.S., leading to widespread flooding, flood warnings for over 70 million individuals, at least 15 fatalities, the sweeping away of vehicles, and train derailments.

By utilizing climate models alongside historical data, researchers examined storm systems across eight affected states and concluded that the current weather patterns were approximately 9% more intense due to global warming, with a 40% increased likelihood compared to a scenario without such warming.

Ben Clark, a researcher at Imperial College London, stated, “We conclude that the existing 1.3 degrees Celsius of warming has intensified the extreme rainfall leading to flooding in the region. A warmer atmosphere retains more moisture.”

The outcome was severe flooding in Frankfort, Kentucky, along with a rainy day in the Midwest on April 7th.
Leandro Lozada/AFP Getty Images file

The 1.3 degrees reference indicates how much warmer the planet has become in Celsius since humanity began releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere post-Industrial Revolution—a conversion of approximately 2.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Clark noted that the probability estimates from the group are conservative. The researchers identified a unique weather configuration that contributed to the extreme rainfall.

Shell Winkley, a meteorologist with Climate Central, a nonprofit news organization involved in the report, explained that a low-pressure system interacting with a high-pressure ridge caused the thunderstorms to repeatedly affect the same areas in the Southeast and Midwest.

“This front was the route through which these storms moved, and there was also a trigger mechanism. The thunderstorms accumulated rain on already saturated soil,” Winkley noted. “This event is a fascinating intersection of weather and climate change.”

According to Winkley, the National Weather Service issued the third highest weather warning on April 2.

“By the end of the day, the National Weather Service had released 728 separate thunderstorm and tornado warnings from various offices, with numerous locations experiencing extreme rainfall between April 3 and April 6, with some areas seeing up to 16 inches,” Winkley explained.

After a significant storm in Portageville, Missouri on April 7th, vehicles navigate through flooded streets.
Scott Olson/Getty Images File

Upon reviewing historical rainfall from April, researchers indicated that similar storm systems are anticipated every century in the current warm climate.

Gerald Brotzge, a Kentucky climatologist and professor at the University of Kentucky Western University, initially approached such studies with skepticism, particularly those linking large-scale flooding to climate change without accounting for unique weather setups. However, he found this study credible.

Brotzge remarked, “It appears they conducted a thorough analysis. In this instance, a stagnant boundary allowed thunderstorms to constantly form in the same locality—an accurate observation.”

Brotzge noted that Kentucky has warmed by nearly 1.8 degrees Celsius (approximately 3.2 degrees Fahrenheit) over the last 130 years and has been experiencing increased rainfall.

“Our annual rainfall has risen by about 10%,” Brotzge stated. “Half of our ten wettest years have occurred since 2011, with 2011 being the wettest and 2018 as the second wettest.”

The World Weather Attribution is a team of scientists who quickly assess the influence of climate change on extreme weather events. Their methodology has undergone peer review, though some analyses are not immediately reviewed. Previous studies by the group on heatwaves, wildfires, and hurricanes have also faced academic scrutiny.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Amid RFK Jr.’s Vaccine Advocacy, Resistance to mRNA Therapy Intensifies

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Utah and Tennessee have enacted laws mandating that foods containing vaccines be categorized as drugs, despite the fact that such products are not currently available. Legislators reference a University of California study that investigates the possibility of incorporating vaccines into lettuce.

“We’ll consume this batch of lettuce, take these mRNA vaccines, and then retest the DNA. The results will likely differ. This poses a risk.”

In reality, mRNA vaccines cannot alter genetic material because they do not interact with the cell nucleus, where DNA is located. While small amounts of DNA may be present in all vaccines—similar to what can be found in influenza vaccines—the Food and Drug Administration enforces strict limitations, typically rendering these levels negligible. Researchers have been exploring mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases and cancer for years, dating back to the 1990s with mice, and human trials since the early 2000s. Vaccines containing live viruses have recognized side effects; mRNA vaccines generally experience fewer adverse reactions compared to traditional vaccines.

“mRNA is not a foreign agent. It is something we are regularly exposed to,” stated Melissamua, Chief Science Officer at Moderna, the producer of the COVID vaccine. “Every time you consume whole foods, meat, or vegetables, you ingest substantial amounts of mRNA, which your body degrades and utilizes.”

Even should the bill fail to pass, its advocates assert they are in it for the long haul. Last month, Minnesota Republicans introduced a proposal to classify mRNA products as weapons of mass destruction, adding them to a list including natural PO, charcoal, bacteria, and mustard gas. This initiative mirrored the language of a bill drafted by Florida hypnotist Joseph Santhorne. In his newsletter, Mr. Santhorne lauded local Republican groups for passing resolutions supporting the ban and urged his followers to participate in political events to confront officials.

“It ‘punches them in their eyes,'” he remarked. “It carries significant psychological impact.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

GTA 6 Delivers: Will the Notorious Cynical Action Series Finally Embrace Romance?

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

something exciting is coming to Grand Theft Auto Universe next year. This isn’t just about stunning graphics or uncharted territories in Rockstar’s version of the US; it goes much deeper. If you caught the recently released second trailer for GTA6, it was unveiled mercilessly just days after the announcement that the game won’t be available until May next year. What’s new is romance.

The main characters in this latest gangster saga are Lucia Caminos and Jason Duval, two young lovers from rough backgrounds. He’s a former attire turned drug runner, while she’s just out of prison and determined to create a better life for herself and her beloved mother. Their paths cross as they devise plans to escape their gritty surroundings. However, when a seemingly straightforward robbery takes a dangerous turn, they find themselves entangled in a sprawling criminal conspiracy. If Rockstar is telling a love story, you can bet it includes an Underworld Kingpin, gang members, conspiracy theorists, and a horrifying array of corrupt politicians.

Slazy Rider…Grand Theft Auto 6. Illustration: Rockstar Game

But how do writers create a couple that resonates with the series’ tone and lore? Traditionally, it has focused on deeply flawed, solitary characters like the PTSD-afflicted veteran Nico Bellic and the volatile Trevor Phillips. There was a brief romantic subplot in previous games—Mercedes Cortes, CJ’s short affair, the entanglements of Catalina in San Andreas, and the flirtations woven throughout Tommy Vercetti’s escapades. Even Trevor’s odd interactions with Patrice in GTA5 featured sparse love stories filled with Stockholm syndrome. Yet, in these narratives, emotional dynamics often took a backseat to violent heists and adrenaline-fueled car chases. The GTA universe has been largely nihilistic, emphasizing individualism often accompanied by a façade of camaraderie before brutal betrayal. However, the new GTA trailer hints at a fresh integrity. “Rather than superficial fantasies, Lucia is prepared to seize control. A life with Jason could lead her to new horizons.”

Writers still look to cinema for inspiration. With its themes of violence and luxury cars under the sun, Vice City drew from Scarface and Miami Vice. GTA: San Andreas channeled the cinematic essence of early ’90s South Central LA through films by John Singleton and the Hughes brothers. GTA 4 took cues from French crime dramas and Russian gangster films. Already, GTA6 is drawing comparisons to Bonnie and Clyde, another tale of troubled lovers willing to risk everything for love. Yet, Rockstar seems to have delved deeper, studying the true romance depicted in Sam Peckinpah’s classics and Terrence Malick’s Badlands—a story of a thrilling but ultimately discontent couple. Even Natural Born Killers may provide surreal inspiration for this new arc.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/VQRLujxTm3c?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Grand Theft Auto VI Trailer 2" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Regardless, this is timely. With all its satire and moral ambiguity, GTA titles have often lacked subtlety. Relationship dynamics have traditionally been tied to the honor code of dysfunctional families and the hypermasculine gangland ethos. This series has never featured a female lead protagonist until now. We’re witnessing the emergence of new dynamics.

Perhaps GTA will approach romance similarly to how it has explored friendship in the past. Take Roman and Nico in GTA 4, who embody contrasts of darkness and violence alongside meaningful risks. Expect minimal player influence in the relationship’s development since GTA isn’t a strict role-playing adventure. Story progression hinges more on actions rather than dialogue. However, I’m curious about what the writers have observed about human behavior from the increasingly popular multiplayer spinoff, GTA Online, where dedicated role-playing servers have fostered virtual relationships.

In any case, I’m rooting for Lucia and Jason. They represent some of the most intriguing characters we’ve seen in the series—already generating buzz online as fans have shipped them. While Rockstar’s art team typically depicts characters as reflections of internal decay, these two are undeniably attractive and share a strong chemistry. Perhaps Rockstar recognizes that the current state of the world—and perhaps our desires—yearns for genuine romantic connection. Next May, expect both love and bullets to fly.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Magnetic Flares Could Be Key to the Formation and Distribution of Gold and Other Heavy Elements

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Since the Big Bang, the early universe has contained hydrogen, helium, and a minimal amount of lithium. Heavier elements, such as iron, were formed within stars. Yet, one of astrophysics’ greatest enigmas is how the first elements heavier than iron, like gold, were created and dispersed throughout the cosmos. A recent study by astronomers at Columbia University and other institutions suggests that a single flare from a magnetar could generate 27 equivalent masses of these elements simultaneously.

Impressions of Magnetar artists. Image credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center/S. Wesinger.

For decades, astronomers have theorized about the origins of some of nature’s heaviest elements, like gold, uranium, and platinum.

However, a fresh examination of older archival data indicates that up to 10% of these heavy elements in the Milky Way may originate from the emissions of highly magnetized neutron stars, known as magnetars.

“Until recently, astronomers largely overlooked the role that magnetars, the remnants of supernovae, might play in the formation of early galaxies,” remarked Todd Thompson, a professor at Ohio State University.

“Neutron stars are incredibly unique, dense objects known for their large size and strong magnetic fields. They are similar to black holes but not quite the same.”

The origin of heavy elements has long been a mystery, but scientists have understood that these elements can only form under specific conditions through a process known as the R process (or rapid neutron capture process).

This process was observed in 2017 when astronomers detected a collision between two super-dense neutron stars.

This event was captured using NASA telescopes and the LIGO gravitational wave observatory, providing the first direct evidence that heavy metals can be produced by celestial phenomena.

However, subsequent evidence suggests that neutron star collisions may not form heavy elements swiftly in the early universe, indicating that additional mechanisms might be necessary to account for all these elements.

Based on these insights, Professor Thompson and his colleagues realized that powerful magnetar flares could act as significant ejectors of heavy elements. This conclusion was validated by the observation of the SGR 1806-20 magnetar flare that occurred 20 years ago.

By analyzing this flare event, the researchers found that the radioactive decay of the newly formed elements aligns with theoretical predictions concerning the timing and energy released by magnetar flares after ejecting heavy R-process elements.

“This is the second time we’ve observed direct evidence of where these elements are produced, first linked to neutron star mergers,” stated Professor Brian Metzger from Columbia University.

“This marks a significant advancement in our understanding of heavy element production.”

“We are based at Columbia University,” mentioned Anildo Patel, a doctoral candidate at the institution.

The researchers also theorized that magnetar flares generate heavy cosmic rays and very fast particles, the origins of which remain unclear.

“I am always excited by new ideas about how systems and discoveries in space operate,” said Professor Thompson.

“That’s why seeing results like this is so thrilling.”

The team’s paper was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

____

Anirudh Patel et al. 2025. Direct evidence for R-process nuclear synthesis in delayed MeV radiation from SGR 1806-20 magnetar giant flares. ApJL 984, L29; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ADC9B0

Source: www.sci.news

Aspiring Deep Sea Explorer? No Need to Worry—Many Opportunities Await!

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Humans have visually documented around 1,470 square miles of the ocean floor, which represents only 0.001%. As per recent research. This area is slightly larger than Rhode Island.

The report, released on Wednesday in the journal Science Advances, raises questions about whether the nation will pursue underwater mining for essential minerals.

Some researchers argue that our knowledge about the seabed is limited, suggesting that more exploration is necessary to responsibly advance extraction efforts.

“More information is always beneficial for making informed decisions,” said Katie Krovbell, a deep-sea explorer and founder of the Ocean Discovery League, a nonprofit focused on seabed exploration.

Understanding the deep sea is crucial for grasping how climate change and human actions impact the ocean, she mentioned. Nonetheless, the study also emphasizes the fundamental excitement that motivates many marine scientists.

“Just think about what lies in the remaining 99.999%,” Dr. Bell commented.

Visual documentation efforts began in 1958 with the deep-sea Trieste. Images collected since then have led biologists to discover new species and understand their interactions within marine ecosystems.

Studying deep-sea organisms on the surface is challenging, as few, if any, are adapted to high-pressure environments. Hence, photos and videos are invaluable.

“Certain habitats cannot be sampled from ships,” said Craig McClain, a marine biologist at the University of Louisiana who was not part of the study. “You need to utilize ROVs for that,” he added.

Visualizing the seafloor is also beneficial for geologists. Prior to the advent of remotely operated vehicles and crewed submersibles, researchers had to drag heavy buckets from their ships to see what they contained.

“They will just handle rocks without context,” stated Emily Chin, a geologist at the Institute of Oceanography, who was not involved in the current study. “It’s akin to studying meteors and attempting to understand another planet’s processes.”

By analyzing rock formations on the seabed through photos and videos, scientists gain insights into basic Earth processes. This knowledge also aids businesses in evaluating potential mining and oil and gas sites.

However, accessing the ocean floor is costly in both financial and temporal aspects. Dr. Bell mentioned that exploring a one-square-kilometer area of the deep seabed could cost between $2 million and $20 million. Planning can take years, while things can go wrong in a matter of hours. During a dive, progress is slow, and ROVs tethered to the ship have limited operational ranges, making repositioning tedious.

Given numerous obstacles, Dr. Bell sought to determine how much of the seafloor had been observed and documented.

Dr. Bell and her team compiled records from over 43,000 deep-sea dives, assessed the resulting images, and estimated the extent of the areas documented.

They estimated that 2,130-3,823 square kilometers of the deep seabed have been imaged, equating to about 0.001% of the total seabed.

“I anticipated the figure would be small, but I didn’t expect it to be quite so limited,” Dr. Bell remarked. “We’ve been conducting these efforts for nearly 70 years.”

The study excluded dives in regions where data isn’t publicly accessible, such as military operations and oil exploration. Even if additional documented areas are included, Dr. Bell expressed, “I doubt it would significantly change the current understanding.”

Much of what marine biologists know about the deep seabed is derived from limited areas. The authors argue that this situation mirrors extrapolating data from a smaller area than Houston to represent the entire planet’s land surface.

The survey also indicated that high-income nations conduct 99.7% of all deep-sea dives, led by the US, Japan, and New Zealand. Most dives occur within 200 nautical miles of these countries. This means that the focus of exploration might skew the representation of the studied marine environments.

“Many experts around the globe possess deep ocean knowledge,” Dr. Bell stated. “However, they lack the necessary tools to perform the research and exploration they aspire to.”

The findings reveal that dives are often concentrated in specific areas, such as the Mariana Trench and Monterey Canyon, focusing on similar features like hydrothermal vents. Since the 1980s, most deep dives have been in shallower coastal waters, leaving vast expanses of the deep ocean uncharted.

“This study provides a valuable overview of our current status and emphasizes where we still need to explore in the deep sea,” Dr. McClain noted.

Source: www.nytimes.com

OpenAI Appoints Instacart CEOs to Oversee Business and Operations

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

OpenAI announced late Wednesday that it has appointed Fidji Simo, the former CEO of Instacart, to lead its business and operations team.

In a blog post, OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman stated he will continue to serve as the head of the company. Simo’s new role as application chief executive will allow Altman to focus on other critical aspects of the organization, such as research, computing, and safety systems.

“We have transformed into a global product company that serves hundreds of millions of users and grows rapidly,” Altman mentioned in his blog. He also noted that OpenAI has evolved into an “infrastructure company” delivering AI tools at scale.

“Each of these initiatives represents a significant endeavor that could stand alone as a large enterprise,” he wrote. “Attracting exceptional leaders is crucial for doing this effectively.”

Simo, who is on OpenAI’s board, will oversee sales, marketing, and finance while reporting directly to Mr. Altman.

As OpenAI announced its AI innovations with the ChatGPT chatbot, the company has experienced rapid growth and has been managing various initiatives. Based in San Francisco, it has consistently introduced new AI models and products, including various inferencing systems. In March, the company completed a $40 billion funding round, led by the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank, raising its valuation to $300 billion, positioning it among the world’s most valuable private companies.

However, as a nonprofit organization at inception, OpenAI faces challenges with its transition to a new corporate structure. With the increasing commercial viability of AI, the company has been moving away from its nonprofit roots, attracting scrutiny from critics like Elon Musk, the co-founder of OpenAI, who has sued the company, alleging it prioritizes profit over AI safety. Both the California Attorney General and Delaware authorities are looking into this restructuring.

On Monday, OpenAI indicated that their plan would support the nonprofit aspect, ensuring it retains some control.

(The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its partner Microsoft, accusing them of copyright infringement related to news content concerning AI systems. OpenAI and Microsoft have denied these allegations.)

In a statement released later on Wednesday, Simo expressed her belief that the opportunity “could accelerate human potential at an unprecedented pace, and I am wholeheartedly committed to steering these applications for the public good.”

In a memo to her Instacart team, she conveyed her “passion for AI, especially its potential to cure diseases,” emphasizing that “leading such a pivotal part of our collective future is an opportunity I cannot pass up.”

Simo will remain at Instacart for the next few months while the company finds her successor, indicating this role will be taken over by members of Instacart’s management team. She will also retain her position on the company’s board of directors as chair.

“Today’s announcement does not signify any changes in our business operations,” Instacart affirmed in a statement.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump Advocates for Increased Birth Rates but Dismisses Fertility Experts

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Every year, tens of thousands of young women opt to freeze their eggs. This procedure can be costly and at times painful, with numbers rising as more Americans delay childbirth.

However, many uncertainties surround the process: What is the optimal donor age for egg freezing? What are the success rates? And importantly, how long can frozen eggs remain viable?

Finding reliable answers to these questions is challenging. During the significant downsizing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Trump administration disbanded a federal research team dedicated to collecting and analyzing data from fertility clinics aimed at enhancing outcomes.

According to Aaron Levine, a professor at Georgia Tech’s Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter School of Public Policy, who collaborated with the CDC team on research, the dismissal of the six team members was “a real, serious loss.”

“They held the most extensive data on fertility clinics, focused on ensuring truthfulness in patient advertising,” stated Barbara Collura, CEO of the National Infertility Association.

Collura emphasized that losing the CDC team is a significant blow to both couples facing infertility and women contemplating egg freezing.

These layoffs come amidst rising political interest in declining U.S. fertility rates. President Trump has dubbed himself the “infertile president” and signed an executive order aimed at expanding access to in vitro fertilization.

“The White House is committed to IVF and remains focused on it,” Collura noted.

With one in seven married or unmarried women experiencing infertility, she remarked, “Looking at these statistics, it’s disheartening—and not surprising—that our public health agencies have chosen to sidestep this issue.”

When asked about the team’s elimination, a health and welfare spokesperson commented that the administration is “in the planning stage” of transitioning maternal health programs to a new Healthy America initiative, offering no further details.

The scientists from the National Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance System were working to address numerous questions surrounding IVF research.

“We lack comprehensive data on the success rates of egg freezing for personal use because it’s relatively new and tricky to track,” Dr. Levine explained.

This uncertainty weighs heavily on women wishing to have children. Simeonne Bookal, who collaborates with Collura at Resolve, froze her eggs in 2018 while waiting to find the right partner.

She got engaged earlier this year, with her wedding scheduled for next spring. At 38, she expressed that having her eggs banked offers her a “security blanket.”

Though she still has reservations about her chances of conceiving, the frozen eggs provide her some assurance.

The precise success rate of the egg freezing procedure remains ambiguous, as many published studies are based on theoretical models that utilize data from infertile patients or egg donors, which differ significantly from women preserving their eggs for future use.

Some studies provide limited insights, often involving fewer than 1,000 women who thaw their eggs and undergo IVF, according to Dr. Sarah Druckenmiller Cascante, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Nyu Langone and author of a recent review paper on this topic.

“The available data is scant, and it’s crucial to be transparent with patients about this,” she said.

“I wouldn’t regard it as a guaranteed insurance policy. While it could lead to a baby, it’s more about improving the chances of having a biological child later in life, especially if done at a younger age.”

The CDC team maintained a database known as the National ART Surveillance System, established by Congress in 1992. This tracked success rates for various fertility clinics but now faces an uncertain future without continuous updates.

While the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology offers similar databases to researchers, they are not as comprehensive as the CDC’s since they contain data from approximately 85% of U.S. fertility clinics.

According to Sean Tipton, Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer for the American Association of Reproductive Medicine, no dedicated research team oversees the database.

The surge in women opting to bank their eggs for future use has intensified the scrutiny regarding the risks and benefits of freezing eggs.

This procedure was regarded as non-experimental as of 2012. In 2014, only 6,090 patients opted to bank their eggs for fertility preservation. Fast forward to 2022, and that number soared to 28,207, with 39,269 recorded in 2023, the latest year for which data is available.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Frizz and Flair: How Millennials Redefined Coolness

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

HThe right to bare ankles is a cause for which Natalie Ormond is willing to fight. Millennial Ormond has a strong aversion to the socks of ZZ crew members. “I’m all about my trainer socks and I won’t budge,” says the 43-year-old. “The more prominent the socks, the better.”

A trend of concealing socks within low-top trainers is just one reason why everyone born between 1981 and 1996 is perceived as outdated by the next generation: Gen Z, or Zilennials. As seen in numerous TikTok videos, traits like millennial pink, social media, and Pumpkin Spice Lattes reflect a distinct generational divide. Choices in denim (with skinny and mom jeans front and center, while baggy styles fade) and passions for avocado toast (Gen Z’s version being matcha) emphasize differences, as does the emoji usage—particularly the crying-laughing face for millennials and the skull emoji for Zoomers, which connotes humor akin to “I’m dying of laughter.” Millennial videos often commence with a brief pause, known as the “Millennial Pause,” highlighting their nostalgia for outdated tech, as they check devices they record on.

Avocado toast…a quintessential choice for millennials. Photo: Ekaterina Budinovskaya/Getty Images

This suggests that in recent years, the once trendy youth, who appeared fresh alongside their millennial counterparts, now seems somewhat outdated, particularly in contrast to the unabashed baby boomers and the mysterious Generation X.

As a proud millennial born in 1991, I share the memories of a pre-tech era. I wasn’t on Facebook until my friend’s mother was attempting to join her sixth form. I remember when Netflix was a DVD rental service. Yet, being a millennial hasn’t been without its challenges. We’ve been labeled as lazy, entitled, and overly sensitive. Older generations often overlook the realities of rising salaries, student debt, and housing costs, blaming us for our financial habits and brunch preferences instead of understanding our struggles. Yet, I must admit that we are part of a pioneering generation that bridged the gap between analog and digital, making us significant, fascinating, and yes, undeniably cool. Realizing that you’ve suddenly been surpassed is quite a shock.

Matcha latte… Gen Z’s green glove of choice. Photo: Baoyan Zeng/Getty Images

Some millennials are resisting their newfound status with fervor. Lily Saujani, 37, feels insulted. “It’s absurd. We’re evaluated by younger generations who act like we invented everything,” she remarks. “But really, they’re just repurposing our teenage styles.” Saujani recalls first feeling this generational gulf while scrolling through TikTok, an app invented by millennials, as she realized being born before 1992 equates to being labeled ‘old’. “There’s certainly competition across generations on TikTok, and yes, I feel older while using it,” she states.

Much of the tension stemming from Gen Z’s teasing seems rooted in the notion that they are capitalizing on trends pioneered by millennials. “We carved paths that Gen Z now thrives upon, taking what we once did on MySpace into their college dorms,” comments Lizzie Cernik, 41, a strong advocate for hard work who identifies as a “tough cookie.” Meanwhile, Ormond, fond of trainer socks, aims to open a sustainable family store, Smallkind, in 2019, emphasizing that Gen Z’s eco-consciousness echoes the paths laid by millennials.

But when exactly did this shift in coolness take place? Selnik suggests the pandemic might have been pivotal. “Many older millennials, myself included, saw the end of our party days during the lockdown,” she reflects. “The pandemic accelerated this shift; when we emerged, Gen Z had taken over fashion with new trends.” Beauty editor and influencer Laura Pearson, 40, who feels under 25, concurs and has noted changes in the online milieu during COVID. “Previously, the internet was more exclusive, but now, there’s a wave of individuals without any prior credibility who are making careers on Instagram and TikTok.” Although Pearson, who stays relevant by mingling with Gen Z friends, insists she won’t be defined by labels, “If someone feels ashamed to be called a millennial, they’re handing over too much power.”

Generational disparagement is hardly a new trend. In fact, one could argue that millennials were partly responsible for the late 2010s’ “OK Boomer” meme, which dismissed baby boomers’ outdated viewpoints. This latest generational conflict has played out prominently online, becoming a very public battleground for two groups that are most at home in digital spaces.

Illustration: Edith Pritchett/The Guardian

Dr. Carolina, a social media researcher at the University of Northumbria’s Digital Civic Center, notes that Gen Z’s commentary on millennials’ perceived coolness mainly occurs online. As a millennial, she observes that the two generations often differ significantly in their online existence and that millennials tend to appear less stylish to younger peers.

“Being online necessitates a constant mediation of self through various platforms. So even those who claim to be ‘unfiltered’ can struggle to establish credibility,” she explains. “While millennials have curated sophisticated feeds and focused on their best moments and personas, Gen Z seems to favor a more chaotic and unpolished approach.”

When I asked my Gen Z younger sibling and their friends about their thoughts on what makes millennials feel outdated, it was revealing. Even comments that alluded to my excessive messaging were deemed “very millennial.” For instance, take selfies. My generation preferred front-facing angles, while Gen Z utilizes the 0.5x lens for expansive shots, which often include a distorted arm of the photographer.

Millennial selfies have a cultivated quality, yet looking through my collection, there’s my friend in a laid-back pose, drink in hand, and looking slightly self-conscious. Moreover, our penchant for taking selfies during various occasions (like in parks, pubs, or casual hangouts) underscores a millennial trait. “While Gen Z is also aware of social media’s pitfalls, they seem willing to embrace the chaos of our current reality,” they say. “The fact that millennials often post carefully curated images or try to project a polished image may strike them as out of touch.”

Gen Z’s unique selfie style. Photo: Stephen Zeigler/Getty Images

Perhaps Gen Z’s ribbing of millennials stems from their lived experiences, generating diverse humor. While millennial humor tends to lean toward self-deprecation, Gen Z’s is marked by absurdity, irony, and meta-commentary. My 25-year-old brother breaks this down: “We still feel the waves of social media, the consequences of 2008, climate anxiety, soaring housing costs, and the negativity of fractured news environments. This confluence of factors contributes to Gen Z’s more sarcastic, absurdist, and often angry humor.”

Ultimately, this generational coolness may inevitably shift to the younger generation, casting millennials in the shadows. Sam Harrington Law, 55, founder and editor of Silver Magazine, which focuses on “Generation X-ers and Beyond,” posits that Generation X (born from 1965 to 1980) is “arguably the coolest generation.” “Coolness is subjective,” she emphasizes. “The viral nature of ‘OK Boomer’ illustrated the sheer joy derived from ridiculing Baby Boomers’ outdated attitudes.”

One millennial who remains indifferent and seemingly embodies the millennial spirit is culture journalist and author Daisy Jones, 32. A Goldsmiths alum and Vogue writer, she notably lacks brunch selfies or cute animal photos on her Instagram. “I believe that ‘coolness’ doesn’t stem from hard work or consideration,” she asserts. “It’s about the relentless worry regarding trends, appearances, and persistence.” Jones further mentions that she and her followers share common cultural references; recalling the past is essential, especially regarding significant events like 9/11 or Limewire. “It’s strange to act as if I didn’t experience growing up on the internet; I was on MySpace.”

Truly, defining cool is subjective; what’s deemed cool to one may differ for another. Yet perhaps there’s hope for the millennial legacy. If we perceive ourselves as cool, does it truly matter? Maybe we can all embrace being like Ormond and wear trainer socks with pride. “As I grow older, it’s less about fitting in, and more about expressing who you are,” she remarks. “That authenticity may just be the coolest aspect of being a millennial today.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

These Stunning Birds Create Enduring Bonds

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

True friends, as most would agree, support one another. This can mean offering emotional encouragement or lending a hand during a move. For a vibrant Sterling—a lively songbird from the African savanna—this includes feeding insects to your friends’ offspring, with the expectation that they will do the same for you in return.

Research has shown that social animals tend to form bonds primarily with their relatives. However, according to a study published in the Journal Nature Wednesday, researchers analyzed two decades of field data, revealing new interactions among unrelated members of great starling communities.

“These findings are the core of our study,” stated Dustin Reubenstein, an ecology professor at Columbia University and the paper’s author.

Alexis Earle, a biologist from Cornell University and co-author, noted that great starlings exhibit unique cooperative breeding behavior, blending family units with newcomers. New parents often depend on as many as 16 helpers.

Dr. Reubenstein’s lab has maintained a 20-year field survey of the species, encompassing 40 breeding seasons. They recorded thousands of interactions among hundreds of vocal birds and collected DNA samples to explore genetic linkages. When Dr. Earle, then a graduate student, began analyzing the data, she and her colleagues were not surprised to find that the birds predominantly assisted their relatives.

However, they were taken aback to discover that starlings also assisted non-relatives, even opting to help others when they could have aided their family members. Newcomers in the flock offered assistance to birds born within it, and vice versa. As great starlings frequently shift between parenting and supportive roles, the research team found that individuals who aided non-relatives tended to reciprocate those good deeds over time.

“Starlings consistently invest in the same valued social partners over their lives,” Dr. Earle remarked. “To me, that resembles friendship.”

Gerald Carter, an animal behavior expert at Princeton University and co-author, noted the controversy surrounding the idea of animals forming friendships with non-related individuals. Yet, increasing research supports the presence of long-term interactions among primates, elephants, crows, and whales. There are even vampire bats that share their blood meals with unrelated members of their colonies, alongside unrelated male lance-tailed manakins who act as each other’s “wingmen” to attract female attention.

Detecting long-term relationships, however, can be challenging, as Dr. Reubenstein points out. The research team required 27 seasons of data to reveal signs of reciprocity among starlings, and he believes they may still be underestimating it.

Dr. Reubenstein suggested that mutual support relationships may be more crucial than lab data indicates. “Having substantial long-term data is essential to uncovering these dynamics.”

The study presents a strong case, according to Jorg Massen, a behavioral ecologist at Utrecht University in the Netherlands who was not involved in the research. A key next step is to determine how these long-term relationships are sustained on a daily basis.

“Is it merely based on reproductive support, or does it involve other behavioral factors?” he posed.

Moreover, the behavior of great starlings suggests that everyone benefits from maintaining relationships with unrelated peers. “Birds residing in larger groups tend to have longer lifespans and produce more offspring over their lifetimes,” stated Dr. Reubenstein. In the harsh and unpredictable environments of the African savanna, maximizing resources is vital, and incorporating migrant birds enhances group stability.

According to Dr. Reubenstein, this mirrors the evolutionary trajectory of humans.

Amid growing concerns over the epidemic of human loneliness, experts may find valuable lessons in the lives of starlings. In essence, strong relationships often emerge from a foundation of support.

But you don’t need to feed your friends’ kids bugs! Luckily, there are always babysitting services available.

Source: www.nytimes.com

State Calls Out Trump Administration for Freezing EV Charging Funding

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A group of states spearheaded by Washington, Colorado, and California has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming it is unlawfully withholding billions of dollars designated by Congress for electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Act of 2021 allocated $5 billion to states for the construction of charging stations across the country. Research firm Atlas Public Policy reports that 71 stations have been established thus far, with more on the way.

Litigation filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington in Seattle states that the federal agency has unlawfully frozen these funds, halted the approval of new stations, deprived states of critical resources, and harmed the developing electric vehicle industry.

The White House’s Budget Proposals announced last week indicated a cancellation of funds for the “Failed Electric Vehicles – Charger Grant Program.” President Trump had already targeted the program in January. Presidential Order from the Transportation Department echoed similar sentiments the following month. However, the lawsuit contends that a Congressional approval is necessary to entirely revoke funding.

“The president is making unconstitutional efforts to withhold funds allocated to programs that Congress supported,” stated California Attorney General Rob Bonta. “This time, he’s unlawfully diverting billions meant for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, lining the pockets of his oil industry allies.”

California has approximately 2 million “zero emission vehicles” available, accounting for one-third of the national total, as part of an ongoing initiative in the car-centric state to reduce air pollution. According to Bonta’s office, California relied on $384 million from the federal program for charging stations.

The state has heavily invested in its charging infrastructure from its own budget and revenue from carbon credits sold to polluters, leading to more public and shared private chargers than gas station pumps. However, challenges remain when crossing state lines for charging.

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, or NEVI Program, initiated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr., aims to establish charging networks across urban and rural areas, including California, to combat climate change.

California officials remarked that one of the main beneficiaries of the national EV program is China, which currently leads in EV manufacturing and global sales. The most significant detriment would likely fall on Tesla, a Trump supporter, whose CEO Elon Musk expects the company to lead the EV market, despite a decline in sales during the first quarter of 2025.

“When America retreats, China prevails,” California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal fund withholding as “another Trump gift to China.”

“Instead of promoting Teslas on the White House lawn, President Trump should prioritize aiding Elon and the nation by adhering to the law and unlocking this bipartisan funding,” Newsom stated.

The lawsuit includes attorneys general from Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.

Transportation Department Notes indicate that state officials reported in February that the administration had considered the NEVI program and suspended approval of state plans. The lawsuit seeks a declaration that the memo is illegal and demands the administration release the funds.

An NEVI Funding Tracking Website operated by Atlas Public Policy shows that at least $521 million has been allocated, with approximately $44 million already spent. Data indicates that many operational stations are concentrated in Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Loren McDonald, chief analyst at EV analytics firm Paren, commented that while the federal government plays a minor role in the EV charging sector, most stations are constructed by private companies. McDonald noted that the process of building the infrastructure and selecting contracting firms is lengthy and has led to delays. His experience with constructing charging stations reflects this trend.

That said, the plaintiffs asserted that the president’s orders have been detrimental.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser expressed that his state stands to lose tens of millions in funding after demonstrating significant advancements in establishing a robust foundation for electric vehicle adoption. He mentioned that federal support was crucial to bridging gaps in funding for rural Colorado and underserved communities.

“Congress showed foresight in approving funds for this essential infrastructure,” Weiser stated. “These funds need to be restored immediately.”

In Washington, the president’s directives halt 40 proposed projects and jeopardize $55 million in approved Congressional funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructures.

The White House and the Transportation Department have yet to respond to requests for comment.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Who is Casey Means and Did Trump Appoint Her as Surgeon General?

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Wednesday, President Trump remarked that, similar to general surgeons, doctors educated at Stanford have increasingly vocalized concerns about the influence of corporations on medicine and health.

Dr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a supporter of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expressed that founding medicine can lead to feelings of disillusionment. Last year, she and her sibling, Calley Means, gained attention after appearing on Tucker Carlson’s show, where Carlson serves as a White House health advisor and a former food industry lobbyist.

What is her field of medicine?

Dr. Means, trained as an ENT and head and neck surgeon, left her surgical training incomplete to pursue functional medicine, which focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease. Last year, she released a diet and self-help book titled “Good Energy: Amazing Connections between Metabolism and Infinite Health.” Before that, she was primarily known for founding a company that offered wearable glucose monitors for health tracking.

Her work emphasizes the rising prevalence of chronic diseases in the United States, addressing issues related to obesity, diabetes, infertility, chemical and drug therapies, and sedentary lifestyles among the American population.

What did she say about the vaccine?

In line with some of Kennedy’s skepticism regarding vaccines, Dr. Means urged the new administration to reconsider the liability protections granted to vaccine manufacturers in order to promote research into “cumulative effects” and the development of new vaccines.

“Emerging evidence suggests that the heavy burden of the current extensive vaccine schedule is impacting the health of vulnerable children,” she stated. I discussed this in my October newsletter.

Experts in child health remain strongly opposed to reducing the list of recommended vaccinations, warning that such modifications could result in severe outbreaks of infectious diseases. They also emphasize that the government is responsible for both the safety data used in vaccine licensing and that gathered post-implementation.

What did she say about food supply?

Dr. Means is spearheading a collaborative initiative to modify corporate-friendly practices concerning food and medical production and sales. This includes promoting healthier diets in public schools, researching chemical usage in American food products, advocating for warning labels on ultra-processed foods, restricting drug company advertising to patients on television, and mitigating the industry’s influence over food and drug regulators.

“American health is being compromised,” she stated. During a Senate Roundtable Event addressing food and nutrition in September, she remarked, “If the current trends persist, we will face social instability at best, diminishing America’s competitiveness, or at worst, a level of health disruption akin to genocide.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Canada’s Enigmatic Brain Disease: The Mystery Unveiled

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Six years ago, a Canadian neurologist noticed unusual symptoms among a group of patients in New Brunswick, a province next to Maine.

Dr. Arie Marrello reported that patients experienced hallucinations, convulsions, rapid memory loss, and a sensation of insects crawling under their skin, but these symptoms and brain scans didn’t align with existing diagnoses, making the cases puzzling.

Subsequent reviews by neurologists led to clear diagnoses, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer.

A recent study published in JAMA Neurology supports these findings, indicating that the likelihood of such mysterious illnesses is about one in one million.

The physicians involved in this study assessed 25 patients from the New Brunswick cluster. With 11 patients deceased, neuropathologists relied on autopsy findings to reach diagnoses. Among the 14 living patients, neurologists used cognitive assessments, concluding that all had well-documented conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, traumatic brain injury, and post-concussion syndrome.

Dr. Anthony Lang, a neurologist at the Krembil Brain Institute within the University Health Network, remarked, “I was confident that there was a clear explanation for 100% of the cases.”

Nevertheless, some medical professionals are concerned that this evidence may not quell speculation about an underlying unknown cause, which many patients and their families continue to believe in.

According to the authors of the study, 52 individuals connected to the New Brunswick cluster declined a second opinion, and another 42 individuals were unreachable. This lack of response has been attributed to the spread of misinformation through both traditional and social media, undermining trust in healthcare systems.

“These instances reflect misdiagnosis, leading to misinformation. Unfortunately, the doctors involved persist in convincing patients and their families that they have a mysterious illness,” Lang emphasized.

Marello expressed skepticism regarding the study’s methods and conclusions in a statement, saying, “I hold serious reservations about the validity of the research and have numerous questions regarding its methodology and content. We believe that our patients, families, and communities share these significant concerns.”

Dr. Valerie Sim, an associate professor of neurology at the University of Alberta and not part of the study, stated there is no evidence linking the patients’ illnesses. She noted that the description of the cases is too broad and could apply to multiple conditions.

“Sadly, the unifying factor is that all these patients saw the same neurologist,” Sim pointed out. “Patients evaluated by different specialists have been diagnosed with known conditions that aren’t mysterious.”

James Mastorianni, a professor of neurology at the University of Chicago, highlighted that while not included in the study, it underscores the importance of seeking second opinions from experts in the field.

Ongoing Investigation

The Mystery Disease Theory gained traction in 2021 when Canadian health officials launched an investigation based on Marello’s observations. However, even after the inquiry determined that most patients had identifiable conditions, skepticism remained among families. In November, Susan Holt, the Prime Minister of New Brunswick, called for a scientific review of the “mysterious brain diseases.”

“The residents of New Brunswick deserve answers,” Holt stated in a public statement last year. “We must understand the source of our illnesses.”

Some advocates for patients suspect that environmental factors may be contributing to the illnesses, noting that blood tests have detected heavy metals, pesticides, and rare antibodies, warranting further investigation.

“None of our patients received an alternative diagnosis,” said Kat Lantine, an advocate in New Brunswick. “What led to their neurodegenerative disease?”

Dr. Yves Legger, New Brunswick’s chief medical officer of health, stated in a recent statement that the new study “does not alter our commitment to thoroughly investigating cases of undiagnosed neurological diseases in New Brunswick.”

His office has received 222 case reports in connection with this cluster.

Marello mentioned, “We have evaluated over 500 patients in this cluster and provided substantial evidence regarding environmental exposures, as well as rare autoimmune markers present in several cases.”

However, Lang cautioned that detecting substances in the blood or urine does not necessarily imply they are the cause of neurological symptoms.

“You cannot take a scattershot approach, where you find something and assert that it’s relevant to the health issue,” he explained.

Challenges in Diagnosing Neurological Problems

Neurologists not involved with the New Brunswick situation highlight several challenges that continue to spur discussions among advocates, doctors, and government officials about the illness’s origins.

For starters, they note that accurate diagnoses can take time. Some conditions highlighted in the study exhibit complex symptom profiles, like Alzheimer’s.

“We need a comprehensive history from the family along with a timeline to identify if someone is developing dementia. There may be early signs of confusion evident in neurological tests,” indicated Dr. Kimberly O’Neal, a neurologist at the Health Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center at NYU Langone.

Rapidly progressing dementia was one of the key symptoms observed in New Brunswick patients. However, families sometimes overlooked early indicators of neurodegeneration, which made it appear as though dementia appeared suddenly, according to Mastorianni.

When severe symptoms manifest, patients and their families often seek answers and can be hesitant to abandon their initial diagnoses, Sim noted.

“This phenomenon is common in medicine. Patients often become attached to a diagnosis or a group of conditions,” Sim remarked. “That is evidently the case here.”

Misdiagnosis can be “truly tragic,” as it may prevent patients from receiving effective treatment and proper care.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Concerns Emerged from Foresight AI Utilizing 57 Million NHS Medical Records

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Foresight AI Model employs information derived from records of hospitals and family practitioners across the UK

Hannah McKay/Reuters/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The developers assert that an AI model trained with medical records of 57 million individuals through the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) could eventually assist physicians in anticipating illness and hospitalization trends. Nonetheless, other academics express significant concerns over privacy and data protection associated with the extensive utilization of health data, acknowledging that even AI developers are unable to ensure the absolute protection of sensitive patient information.

This model, branded as “Foresight,” was initially created in 2023. Its first iteration leveraged OpenAI’s GPT-3, the prominent language model (LLM) that powered the original ChatGPT, using 1.5 million authentic patient records from two hospitals in London.

Recently, Chris Tomlinson from University College London and his team broadened their objectives, claiming to develop the world’s first “national generative AI model for health data” with significant diversity.

Foresight utilizes Meta’s open-source LLM, LLAMA 2, leveraging eight distinct datasets of medical information routinely collected by the NHS between November 2018 and December 2023, including outpatient appointments, hospital visits, vaccination records, and other relevant documents.

Tomlinson notes that his team has not disclosed any performance metrics for Foresight, as it is still undergoing evaluation. However, he believes that its potential extends to various applications, including personalized diagnoses and forecasting broader health trends such as hospital admissions and heart conditions. “The true promise of Foresight lies in its capacity to facilitate timely interventions and predict complications, paving the way for large-scale preventive healthcare,” he stated at a press conference on May 6.

While the foreseeable advantages remain unsupported, the ethical implications of utilizing medical records for AI learning at this magnitude continue to raise alarms. Scholars argue that all medical records undergo a ‘degeneration’ process before integration into AI training, yet the risk of re-identifying these records through data patterns is well-established, especially in expansive datasets.

“Creating a robust generative AI model that respects patient privacy presents ongoing scientific challenges,” stated Luc Rocher at Oxford University. “The immense detail of data advantageous for AI complicates the anonymization process. Such models must operate under stringent NHS governance to ensure secure usage.”

“The data inputted into the model is identifiable, so direct identifiers will be eliminated,” remarked Michael Chapman, who oversees the data fueling Foresight, in a speech at NHS Digital. However, he acknowledged the perpetual risk of re-identification.

To mitigate this risk, Chapman explained that AI functions within a specially created “secure” NHS data environment, guaranteeing that information remains protected and accessible solely to authorized researchers. Amazon Web Services and Databricks provide the “computational infrastructure,” yet they do not have access to the actual data, according to Tomlinson.

Regarding the potential to expose sensitive information, Yves-Alexandre de Montjoye from Imperial College London suggests evaluating whether a model can retain the information it encounters during training. When asked by New Scientist whether Foresight has undergone such testing, Tomlinson indicated that it has not, but they are contemplating future assessments.

Employing such an extensive dataset without engaging the public regarding data usage may erode trust, cautions Caroline Green at Oxford University. “Even anonymized data raises ethical concerns, as individuals often wish to manage their data and understand its trajectory.”

Nevertheless, prevailing regulations offer little leeway for individuals to opt out of the data utilized by Foresight. All information incorporated into the model emanates from NHS datasets gathered on a national scale and remains “identified.” An NHS England representative stated that the existing opt-out provisions do not apply, asserting that individuals not wishing to share their family doctor data will not contribute to the model.

As per the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), individuals should retain the option to withdraw their consent concerning personal data usage. However, training methods involving LLMs like Foresight make it impossible to eliminate a single record from an AI tool. An NHS England spokesperson commented, “The GDPR does not pertain since the data utilized to train the model is anonymized, and therefore we do not engage with personal data.”

While the complexity of GDPR concerning the training of LLMs presents novel legal issues, the UK Information Commissioner’s Office indicates that “identified” data should not be viewed as equivalent to anonymous data. “This perspective arises because UK data protection laws lack a definition for the term, which can lead to misunderstanding,” the office emphasizes.

Tomlinson explains that the legal situation is compounded as Foresight is only engaged in studies pertaining to Covid-19. This means that exceptions to data protection laws instituted during the pandemic remain applicable, points out Sam Smith from Medconfidential, a UK data privacy advocacy group. “This Covid-specific AI likely harbors patient data, but such information cannot be extracted from the research environment,” he asserts. “Patients should maintain control over their data usage.”

Ultimately, the conflicting rights and responsibilities surrounding the utilization of medical data in AI developments remain ambiguous. “In the realm of AI innovation, ethical considerations are often overshadowed, prompting a reevaluation beyond merely initial parameters,” states Green. “Human ethics must serve as the foundational element, followed by technological advancements.”

The article was updated on May 7, 2025

Corrections regarding the comments made by the NHS England spokesperson were duly noted.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Dementia Cases Surge More Rapidly in China Compared to Global Trends

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Why are dementia cases sharply rising in China?

Hanohishikilf/Aramie

A new scientist. Science News and Long read from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health, and the environment. — Why are dementia cases sharply rising in China?

Hanohishikilf/Aramie

The incidence of dementia is escalating in China at an unprecedented rate, with numbers exceeding four times the historical figures observed over past decades.

Daoying Geng from The University of Hudun conducted an analysis of dementia statistics across 204 countries and regions between 1990 and 2021. The focus was on dementia cases in individuals over 40, particularly other forms like Alzheimer’s and cerebrovascular dementia.

During this timeframe, researchers discovered that global dementia cases surged from nearly 22 million in 1990 to approximately 57 million by 2021. The situation was particularly alarming in China, which saw its case count increase over fourfold to reach about 4 million.

In-depth analysis indicates that population growth plays a pivotal role. China experienced a baby boom in the 1950s, which means those individuals are now in their 70s, the age group presenting the highest risk for dementia. Xi Chen from Yale University, who did not participate in the study, noted the uniqueness of China’s baby boom generation compared to other countries’ cohorts.

The research team identified three additional significant contributors to the escalating dementia rates in China. First, smoking predominantly impacts men, with only 2% of Chinese women being smokers about half of the male population smokes. This contrasts sharply with countries like the US and UK, where smoking rates are on a downward trend, according to Chen.

A Western trend mirrored in China involves rising rates of diabetes and obesity, particularly over recent decades, both recognized risk factors for dementia. This shift may be attributed to the adoption of a Western-style diet, which is generally higher in fat and calories, Chen explains. He posits that as younger generations in China smoke less, dementia rates may eventually mirror those of the US or UK, albeit the present conditions continue to exert a substantial influence on China.

“Dementia is among the costliest diseases globally, necessitating extensive care and treatment,” Chen emphasizes. “As for aging, China possesses the largest elderly population worldwide. There are few young individuals to care for this significant number of seniors living with dementia, presenting numerous challenges.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Tech Giant Surpasses Quarterly Expectations Amid Trump’s Tariff Impact on Sector

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

hWelcome to Ello and TechScape! I’m your host, Blake Montgomery. In this week’s Tech News: Trump’s tariffs are impacting a tech firm that focuses on physical goods more than those solely digital. We dive into two stories highlighting the dark implications of AI on the labor market. Additionally, Meta has launched a standalone AI application, boasting an impressive claim of 1 billion users due to its rapid adoption. OpenAI has backed down from a controversial version of ChatGPT, and we revisit the early terminology surrounding Elon Musk.

High-tech revenue: bits rake it up, atoms face uncertainty

Four out of seven major tech giants reported their quarterly earnings last week. Meta, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon exceeded Wall Street projections, yet their outlooks revealed a clear divide between those moving physical products and those thriving in the digital realm. Atomic vs Bits.

Meta and Microsoft’s earnings skyrocketed, surpassing expectations and offering optimistic guidance for the next quarter.

In contrast, uncertainty loomed over Apple and Amazon. While both companies outperformed Wall Street expectations, recent news emphasized the adverse effects of Trump’s tariffs. At the end of Apple’s earnings call, CEO Tim Cook revealed that import tariffs would cost iPhone manufacturers $900 million in the upcoming quarter. Although Apple managed to adapt, planning to ship around $2 billion worth of iPhones from India to the US before tariffs took full effect, it’s still significant.

Last week, Amazon faced backlash from the Trump administration after it was reported that Punchbowl News might begin detailing tariff-related costs for individual items, much like discount retailers Shein and Temu. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt condemned this move as “hostile and political.” Although Amazon considered the idea, it quickly decided not to pursue it and downplayed its competition with Shein and Temu, dubbed Amazon Haul. Following the controversy, the ecommerce titan announced it would cease the initiative.

Is AI taking jobs?

Photo: Science Photo Library/Aramie

Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to greatly disrupt the job market. Reports detail the direct impacts on jobs, leaving many employees in the lurch.

Technology skeptic Brian Merchant discusses Duolingo’s recent shift to an “AI-First” model, phasing out contractors for tasks that AI can manage. His piece, titled Machine Newsletter Blood, features a former Duolingo contractor who expressed disbelief at the rapid exchange for AI. Similarly, artists and illustrators reported losing opportunities as clients opted for AI solutions instead.

However, on a larger scale, immediate disruption following the launch of ChatGPT isn’t anticipated. Research indicates AI’s broader market impact has been slower than predicted. A study from the University of Chicago and the University of Copenhagen published in a Working Paper reveals that in Denmark, “AI chatbots have not significantly affected job revenue or recorded hours.” Rather than completely displacing jobs, AI is expected to enhance productivity, streamlining tasks and fostering new ideas. The study analyzed two comprehensive recruitment surveys encompassing 25,000 workers and 7,000 workplaces across 11 occupations considered vulnerable to AI.

Special thanks to Register for their insights in this paper.

Mark Zuckerberg will be speaking at Llamacon 2025, an AI developer conference in Menlo Park, California, on April 29th. Photo: Jeff Chiu/AP

Personally, I’ve never engaged Meta’s AI chatbots intentionally. I accidentally tapped a discreet blue circle in Instagram’s search bar during the spring of 2024, triggering a chat with AI agents. The chatbot enthusiastically prompted me to “imagine paradise” instead of using my recent search queries. Meta has integrated its AI into frequent sections of its core app.

The strategic placement of the Meta AI search bar and its integration into existing apps is evident. For example, you can easily tap the Meta AI button at the bottom right corner of the iPhone’s WhatsApp app. Meta has optimized the search functionalities across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, thereby promoting its rapidly expanding AI user base through prominently featured options. Recently, Meta AI stated it is “on track to become the world’s most utilized AI assistant,” with nearly 1 billion users reportedly engaged with the platform.

Last week, the company unveiled a standalone AI app, raising questions about user engagement without a physical interaction. For now, executives anticipate most users will continue to encounter AI through the conspicuous blue circles within popular social applications. Barge.

Meta isn’t the only player; Google also boasts a significant user base for its AI features, claiming over 1 billion users for AI-driven searches (recently reported as 1.5 billion). While it’s challenging to determine user engagement levels accurately, it’s evident that companies glean benefits from any interactions with their AI tools, making it nearly impossible for organizations like Google or Meta to be compelled to stop using their data for AI training. In the US, users can only request that Meta remove their data or abstain from utilizing it to aid in AI training, alongside chatting with Meta AI, which also includes posts and profile details.

The reality of AI seems grim, as it appears designed to lead users into its ecosystem early on. Within the US, where minimal privacy regulations exist, users often feel as if they are continuously training AI systems without their consent.

Sam Altman’s Rollback and Debut

“We missed Mark”… Sam Altman. Composite: Carlos Barría / Reuters / Guardian Design

Last week, OpenAI confirmed it would retract the latest ChatGPT update, with Sam Altman stating, “I missed the mark with last week’s GPT-4o update.” He described the prior updates as overly sycophantic and bothersome.

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According to a venture capital firm, this update marks an unusual error for the creators of ChatGPT. Andreessen Horowitz is among investors in OpenAI.

The day after announcing the rollback, Altman shared news of the launch of his new startup, World, which specializes in ORBs that scan users’ IRIs for verification purposes. He proudly tweeted, “We did that!” alongside an image of himself in front of an American flag, creatively modified with the logo of another company.

Doge Days

“No modern precedent”… Elon Musk’s extraordinary role in the government. Composite: Guardian/Getty Images

The wealthiest individual in the world and a prominent figure in technology held a position in the White House for roughly 100 days. What impact did he have?

My colleague Nick Robbins notes:

“Musk left little of the federal government intact. In just a few months, he dismantled decades of government agencies and public services, which amassed considerable political power.”

“Musk’s influence within the Trump administration is unparalleled. The world’s richest person took on a role that allowed him to undermine the very institutions overseeing his enterprises. His attempts to radically reshape government branches significantly increased his influence, incorporating allies into key positions across federal agencies and gaining access to personal data from millions of Americans while laying off tens of thousands of workers. His leadership at SpaceX positioned the company to capitalize on billions in government contracts, leaving chaos in his wake.”

Discover more about Doge’s initial 100 days.

If you only read two more Elon Musk stories this week, check these out

Broader Technology Landscape

Source: www.theguardian.com

Amazon Takes “A Significant Leap in Robotics” with Touch-Sensitive Devices

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Amazon announced a significant advancement in robotics, having developed a robot equipped with tactile sensors capable of grasping approximately three-quarters of items in its expansive warehouse.

During the “future delivery” event held on Wednesday in Dortmund, Germany, the US company unveiled plans to deploy this technology globally over the next few years. The aim is to assist humans in sorting items for storage and preparing them for delivery, amidst the growing operations of online retailers.

Aaron Parness, the Robotics Director at Amazon, referred to Vulcan as “a major leap in robotics,” highlighting the robot’s ability to not only observe its environment but also to perceive it through touch, facilitating tasks previously deemed impossible for Amazon robots.

These robots can identify objects through touch, utilizing AI technology. They work collaboratively with humans who handle and retrieve items from shelves to assist them at picking stations equipped with wheeled robots.

Vulcan robots facilitate storage in shelving units at both the top and bottom levels, referred to as pods, eliminating the need for workers to use ladders. Currently, Amazon’s warehouse robots can employ suction cups and computer vision to manipulate and select items.

Such advancements may evoke concerns about job losses, as retailers reduce human labor in distribution centers that employ thousands.

Many retailers are increasing automation investments due to rising global labor costs. Amazon faces industrial challenges beyond just low wages in its UK warehouses.

Goldman Sachs economists predicted in 2023 that as many as 300 million jobs globally could be eliminated by 2030 due to the rise of generative AI, fundamentally altering various roles.

In the UK, estimates suggest that between 60,000 and 275,000 jobs could vanish annually over the next decade amidst ongoing upheaval, as proposed by the Tony Blair Institute.

Nonetheless, Tye Brady, Amazon’s lead robotics engineer, asserted that robots cannot entirely replace humans in their facilities, stating that they “enhance human potential” to improve workplace safety. He humorously referenced his affection for R2D2, likening their supportive design to that of a “cooperative robot.”

“Humans will always be part of the equation,” he noted, explaining that robots take on “menial, mundane, and repetitive tasks.”

“Complete automation isn’t feasible just yet. We will always require human oversight to understand operational value.”

He also emphasized that individuals play a critical role in safeguarding against potential hacking, especially after incidents like the cyber attack that disrupted Marks and Spencer’s online services.

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“Machines can detect hacks, but human intervention is often what reveals them, making it beneficial to have people involved,” said Brady.

He also noted that humans excel at identifying minor issues, such as package damage or leaks during delivery that could disrupt the system.

According to Brady, AI is enhancing robot development, allowing them to navigate complex spaces autonomously while learning to move safely alongside humans and other objects. He highlighted that the latest generation of robots can “seek help” and adapt to new methods effectively.

“It’s thrilling to integrate both cognition and physical capability,” he said. “We’re just starting this exciting journey.”

For instance, Amazon plans to incorporate technology leveraging machine learning and automation to create customized packaging that minimizes waste. By the end of this year, over 70 machines will be operational in Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain, with more planned by 2027.

This announcement coincides with Amazon’s launch of a budget-friendly delivery service in the UK, featuring thousands of products priced under £20, as the company takes over low-cost competitors Sheen and Tem.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Genetic Research Uncovers the Origins of Bats

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In the early 2000s, bats infected with coronavirus transmitted the virus to raccoon dogs and other wild mammals in southwestern China. Many of these animals were sold in markets where the coronavirus resurfaced. Consequently, the SARS pandemic spread to 33 countries, resulting in 774 fatalities. Months later, researchers identified a mammalian coronavirus known as Palmcoten, found in markets central to the outbreak.

In a study published Wednesday, a team of researchers drew comparisons between the evolutionary paths of SARS and COVID-19, 17 years apart. They examined the genomes of the two coronaviruses responsible for the pandemics, alongside 248 related coronaviruses in bats and other mammals.

Jonathan Pechal, an evolutionary virologist at the University of Edinburgh and author of the study, noted that the histories of the two coronaviruses mirrored each other. “In my opinion, they are very similar,” he stated.

In both instances, Dr. Pekal and his team assert that coronavirus transmission originated from bats in southwestern China to wild mammals. Soon after, wildlife traders transported infected animals hundreds of miles to urban markets, leading to widespread human outbreaks.

“When wildlife is sold in urban centers, pandemics often follow,” stated Michael Warby, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona and co-author of the research.

This research appears at a politically charged moment. Last month, the White House launched a web page titled “Laborek: The True Origins of COVID-19,” asserting the pandemic stemmed from a lab accident in Wuhan, rather than market interactions.

In a budget proposal issued on Friday, the White House indicated that it was “confirming” the lab leak theory, which justified an $18 billion cut to the National Institutes of Health.

The Chinese government responded with a flat denial of claims that COVID was caused by a lab leak in Wuhan, suggesting instead the virus may have originated from a laboratory in the U.S.

“A thorough and detailed investigation into the origin of the virus should be conducted in the United States,” the statement read.

Sergei Pond, a virologist at Temple University, expressed skepticism regarding the resolution of COVID’s origins. He voiced concerns that political rhetoric from both governments could hinder scientific inquiries into the virus’s origins.

“If it weren’t tragic, you’d have to laugh at how things have unfolded,” Dr. Pond commented.

In the initial weeks of the early 2020 pandemic, the virus responsible, SARS-CoV-2, emerged alongside notions of biological weapons created by the Chinese military. A cohort of scientists analyzing available data at that time dismissed this claim, indicating that while they could not dismiss accidental lab leaks, they leaned towards the natural origins of COVID.

Over the ensuing months, Dr. Warby, who was not part of that group, grew dissatisfied with the lack of compelling evidence favoring one theory over another. He co-signed an open letter with 17 other scientists advocating for further investigation to ascertain the most likely explanation.

“We felt there was much yet to be learned, so let’s not dismiss the lab leak theory,” Dr. Warby asserted. “Let’s investigate.”

As Dr. Warby and other researchers scrutinized COVID’s origins, the American intelligence agencies conducted their assessments. Their conclusions were varied. The FBI and CIA support the lab escape theory from the Wuhan Institute, albeit with little certainty. The Department of Energy expresses low confidence in the possibility of a virus escape from another lab in Wuhan, while other institutions favor a natural origin.

Scientists have struggled to evaluate the evidence behind these conclusions as the relevant institutions have not published supporting data or analyses. However, Dr. Warby and his colleagues have released several papers in scientific journals. Along this journey, Dr. Warby became convinced that the COVID pandemic originated at the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan.

“Scientifically, that’s evident,” Dr. Warby remarked, referencing both HIV and the Spanish flu, two diseases with origins that have been thoroughly studied.

In their recent study, Dr. Warby, Dr. Pekal, and their colleagues examined 250 genomes of coronaviruses, leveraging genetic similarities and differences to establish relationships. They successfully reconstructed the evolutionary timeline of the coronaviruses responsible for both SARS and COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2.

The ancestors of both coronaviruses have been circulating in bats across China and its neighboring regions for hundreds of thousands of years, specifically inhabiting southwestern China and northern Laos for the last 50 years.

When coronaviruses infect bats, they sometimes cohabitate with another coronavirus. This can lead to the accidental creation of a hybrid virus carrying genetic material from both original coronaviruses, a process referred to as recombination.

“These are not ancient events,” noted David Rasmussen, a virologist at North Carolina State University involved in the new research. “These occurrences happen frequently; these viruses are truly mosaic in nature.”

In 2001, shortly before the SARS pandemic emerged, researchers found that SARS-CoV had undergone significant genetic mixing among bats. This led to the virus’s potential evolution into a human pathogen. However, given that Guangzhou is hundreds of miles from the ancestral area of SARS-CoV, it’s improbable that the virus gradually reached the city through bats.

Researchers generally concur that ancestors of SARS-CoV infected wild mammals, which were subsequently sold in markets around Guangzhou. Shortly after the onset of the SARS pandemic, the presence of SARS-CoV was confirmed in palm civets and other wild mammals traded in the market.

A similar trend was observed with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. The final recombination event in bats occurred between 2012 and 2014, just five to seven years prior to the COVID outbreak, hundreds of miles away from northeastern Wuhan.

Moreover, this signifies a considerable distance from the area where the virus’s ancestors circulated, paralleling the journey that SARS-CoV undertook via the wildlife trade.

Proponents of the lab leak theory emphasize the significant distance between Wuhan and the habitats of the closest relatives of SARS-CoV-2. They argue that if bats traveled to the area around Wuhan without infecting local mammals, scientists must have been collecting coronaviruses from bats in southwestern China and experimenting on them in the lab.

American scientists have critiqued the Wuhan Institute of Virology for lax safety measures in their coronavirus experiments. Nevertheless, no evidence has confirmed that the ancestors of SARS-CoV-2 were present at the institute prior to the pandemic. Recent research by Dr. Warby and his colleagues illustrates that bat coronaviruses can traverse considerable distances via wildlife trade without any scientific intervention.

The researchers argue that these findings align with a study published in 2022, identifying the Huanan Wet Market in Wuhan as the site of the initial COVID outbreak. Wild mammals were sold at this venue, and early cases of COVID were documented there. Moreover, Chinese researchers collected various strains of SARS-CoV-2, exhibiting different mutations at this location. Dr. Warby and his team posited that the virus likely spilled over from wild mammals at the market on two separate occasions.

Dr. Pond stated that while the new study supports the wildlife spillover theory, he does not believe the issue has been definitively settled. He highlighted two statisticians’ critiques from last year, regarding the modeling behind the 2022 study. Dr. Warby and his colleagues have provided a rebuttal to those criticisms. “That debate is still ongoing,” Dr. Pond remarked.

Mark Eloit, former director of the Pasteur Institute in Paris, emphasized the importance of the new research in clarifying the origins of SARS-CoV-2.

However, he also noted that the coronavirus exhibits significant differences from closely related bat viruses. Following its divergence from those viruses, it would have undergone mutations or recombination to effectively spread among humans.

“I contend that the potential for recombination events—either incidental or deliberate—remains as plausible as the hypothesis of zoonotic transfer via intermediate hosts at the market,” Dr. Eloit argued.

Dr. Eloit and other scientists concurred that discovering intermediate hosts of SARS-CoV-2 among wild mammals would significantly bolster the argument for natural spillover. However, Chinese officials examined various animals at the onset of the pandemic but found no traces of the virus.

Before scientists could conduct studies, wildlife vendors at the Huanan Market removed animals from the stalls, and when China ceased wildlife trade, farmers culled their animals.

“There are large gaps in our knowledge, and we can’t overlook that,” Dr. Pond remarked.

Stephen Goldstein, a geneticist at the University of Utah, remarked that while he was not involved in the new study, the findings serve as a cautionary reminder of future pandemic risks. Wild mammals traded in markets within regions where SARS and COVID-19 emerged can wreak havoc in urban centers hundreds of miles away. “These viral fragments are present in numerous places,” Dr. Goldstein concluded.

Source: www.nytimes.com