From Ideal Gardening Tools to Eight Pounds of Mascara: My Top Picks of the Month | Life and Style

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

the arrival of spring always accelerates the rhythm of life, especially with the hustle of tidying up the sprawling house and garden. I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy the delightful early sunshine this season.

Throughout winter, I kept my gaze primarily indoors. Most plants that I bought with hope last summer seemed doubtful of survival. Thus, it’s heartening to see the garden springing back to life. Many of you share this sentiment; the response to our article on getting your garden summer-ready and organizing for spring has been overwhelmingly positive.

It’s also the ideal moment to clear away the cobwebs from your summer wardrobe and rejuvenate it with fresh pieces, be it a “chic spring sweater,” stylish barrel-leg trousers, or an £8 mascara. (If you’re interested in shopping sustainably, check out our recent guide on vintage clothing.)

Bargain Mascara

L’Oréal Paradise Big Deal Volume Mascara

_{£8 on Amazon}

Savin Wiesel, a former beauty editor with a mascara obsession, is on a quest for the best product. After retesting 25 favorites and five new releases, she curated an impressive selection. “Even those who prefer a low-maintenance approach tend to own mascara,” she notes. Sabine’s top pick is a best-seller that she swears transforms lashes with just one swipe.

Best Budget Secateurs

Photo: Cremy Power Collins

Spear & Jackson Razorsharp Advantage Bypass Secateurs

_{£9.95 on Amazon}

“Secateurs are among the most essential tools in gardening, as vital as a well-crafted trowel,” notes Matt Collins, head gardener at the Garden Museum in London, emphasizing their importance in spring. “It’s time to trim perennials and grasses to promote new growth.” He describes these Spear & Jackson secateurs as “simple yet durable tools that excel in functionality.”

Photo: Jonathan Buckley

Niwaki Hori Hori Knife

_{£32.95 at Sarah Raven}

When asked about their preferred tools, professional gardeners consistently mention the Hori Hori. It’s noted as a favorite among experts for summer preparations. “It’s multifunctional, ideal for digging, cutting, weeding, and planting,” says Lulu Roper-Caldbeck.

Spring Sweater

Borden Enid Embroidered Jumper

_{£112 at John Lewis}

“I adore chic sweaters,” states Jess Kurtner Morley in April’s Style Essentials. “Finding a stylish jumper can be a challenge,” she remarks, highlighting its versatility for cool evenings. “I pair this with a black camisole for a layered look.”

Five-Star Rated Coconut Milk

Biona Organic Coconut Milk

_{£11.95 for 6 x 400ml on Amazon}

“I prefer high-quality coconut milk; there’s a noticeable difference between products loaded with sweeteners and stabilizers,” remarks Ravinder Bhogal in a tasting of coconut milk.

Barrel Leg Trousers

Jersey Trousers

_{£34.90 at Uniqlo}

Initially highlighted by Jess Cartner Morley as a cost-effective way to achieve a high-end look, these Uniqlo Barrel Leg trousers have earned popularity as one of our top choices in the Women’s Spring Wardrobe Essentials guide. Their wearability is certainly a selling point.

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Ultra-Portable Power Bank

Anker Nano

_{£29.99 at Anker}

“Compact, efficient, and easily fits in your pocket,” praises reviewer Pete Wise about this 102g power bank. “No other power banks match its combination of charging prowess and portability,” he adds. With a 5,000mAh capacity, it provides ample energy for most smartphones.

The Best Sunscreen

Altruistic Sunscreen SPF50

_{£27.95 for 1 liter on Amazon}

“Using sunscreen is essential; otherwise, anti-aging products are futile,” states Sari Hughes, an expert on age-defying skincare. This dermatologist-recommended formula might seem pricey, but it is an excellent investment in high-quality sun protection.

‘Glass Hair’ Conditioning Gloss

Glaze Clear Conditioning Gloss

_{£15.99 on Amazon}

Hayley Spencer consulted experts on achievable, DIY-friendly beauty treatments. “Glass hair” can be easily attained at home. “The shine and freshness of salon-treated hair are undeniably appealing,” she mentions. This clear conditioning gloss, which can be applied to dry hair, takes only 10 minutes to work its magic.

Best Budget Walking Pad

Rattantree Shock Absorbent Treadmill

_{£142.49 at Debenhams}

While there’s no substitute for walking outdoors, under-desk treadmills are on the rise for boosting daily steps while at work. The Rattantree model provides solid value at £142.49, as noted by Fitness Fanatic Leon Poultney. “It may lack the frills of pricier models, but it’s lightweight and covers the basics for anyone looking to increase their step count.”

Pollock-Style Bud Vase

Rainbow Vase

_{Starting at £12.50 on Etsy}

A popular choice among readers, this vibrant vase adds a splash of color to any space, designed to hold a single flower stem. It’s a simple and affordable way to brighten your home. Fashion writer Ellie Violet Brumley notes that it pushes the boundaries of traditional splatter patterns.

Source: www.theguardian.com

As Musk Steps Back, Experts Warn Doge Cuts Have Impacted Government Services | Elon Musk

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Following Elon Musk’s exit from his role in overseeing the “Government Efficiency” initiative (DOGE), numerous governance analysts express concerns that Doge failed to enhance the quality of services provided by the government to American citizens.

“Across various efforts, we’ve observed significant attempts to influence public policy at the University of Michigan,” noted Donald Moynihan, public policy professor at the university. “Indeed, we have seen a decline in the quality of several government services.”

The world’s richest individual, Musk, was appointed by Donald Trump in January to lead the efficiency initiative but was restricted from serving as a “special government employee” for over 180 days due to his own business challenges.

While Musk claims that Doge has saved $150 billion during his tenure, many budget analysts have raised doubts about the validity of these figures. Musk has repeatedly been accused of exaggerations and false claims regarding savings, which represent just a fraction of the intended $1 trillion cuts.

Moynihan and other experts lament that Musk and Doge predominantly focus on the interests of business leaders aiming to maximize profits, rather than adopting a holistic strategy to enhance service efficiency.

Martha Guin Bell, executive director of Yale Budget Lab, emphasized Musk’s apparent disinterest in service improvement: “They referred to it as the ‘Governmental Slavery Ministry,’” said Gimbel. “There doesn’t seem to be a comprehensive plan to identify areas where government services can genuinely improve. Enhancing these services requires time, investment, and a commitment to building effective solutions.”

When inquired about whether Musk and Doge had improved government services, Zimbel burst into laughter. “Absolutely not,” she remarked. “There’s undeniably a decline in government services.”

Public policy analysts and citizens highlight numerous ways in which the Doge reductions have worsened government services, including longer appointment waits at veterans’ hospitals, extended holding times when calling the IRS, and increased wait times at Social Security offices. The departure of numerous experienced Social Security staff has resulted in much less assistance for welfare inquiries.

During a White House press conference on May 1, Musk defended Doge’s contributions: “I believe we have been effective overall. It may not be as effective as I had hoped, and we could achieve more,” Musk stated. “However, we’ve made advancements.”

Musk conceded that his $1 trillion goal proved to be more challenging than anticipated. “It’s truly about the discomfort the Cabinet and Congress are experiencing,” he remarked. “We can accomplish this, but we must address numerous complaints.”

The White House has not responded to inquiries regarding the decline in certain government services or how Doge has improved them.

Gimbel cautioned that many Americans may not realize the impending decline in government services as tens of thousands of ordered job eliminations unfold. “It’s certainly going to worsen,” she noted. For instance, the government is set to reduce 80,000 positions within the Veterans Affairs Department.

Numerous public policy experts believe Trump and Musk are greatly exaggerating claims of rampant waste, fraud, and abuse within the government, although Zimbel acknowledged that inefficiencies do exist. “There’s definitely room for improvement, and we can pursue it,” she stated. “Government officials are aware of where these inefficiencies lie. Much modernization of technology is needed. Yet, Doge seems uninterested in pursuing these concerns, as well as issues with Medicare and Medicaid over-expenditures.”

Max Stier, president of the Public Services Partnership, a nonprofit research organization, criticized the approach taken by Musk and Doge, likening it to actions of business executives like Jack Welch known for prioritizing cost-cutting over understanding organizational intricacies. Stier lamented that Musk and his team made abrupt cuts without adequate comprehension of the roles and responsibilities of those affected.

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“Jack Welch would disapprove of the approach Doge has taken,” Stier remarked. “It’s not solely about saving costs; it disrupts organizational capabilities. Welch never let go of staff without understanding how the organization functions and the competencies of those laid off.”

Stier highlighted Musk’s assertion that Doge was meant to cut costs and enhance organization, stating, “It’s difficult to find a rational basis for the decisions being implemented. Americans certainly witness no improvements.”

“We are compromising the government’s capabilities,” he continued. “It’s evident that people are being let go aggressively, disrupting government services without any comprehension of the outcomes and results. It’s broken. It’s broken. This mindset is not prevalent in Silicon Valley.”

The claim of $150 billion in savings attributed to Musk appears to be a substantial overestimation, as it disregards significant costs associated with the Doge initiative, Stier argued. His group has indicated that due to layoffs, reemployment, retirement benefits, paid leave, and decreased productivity linked to over 100,000 workers, taxpayers are likely to incur $135 billion this year. Several public policy experts believe increased wait times and frustration should also count against the purported $150 billion in savings from Doge reductions.

Moynihan stated that Musk’s vision fundamentally misunderstands the role of government efficiency. “His perspective suggests that government officials are incapable of delivering value,” Moynihan commented. “Consequently, the notion of tools to enhance government services is completely foreign to Musk.”

“It appears he thinks civil servants lack competence, so there’s no harm in cutting their positions,” Moynihan added. “This perspective fails to recognize the importance of public services, their existence, and the benefits they provide to society.”

Moynihan contended that Musk’s approach undermines one of the primary government initiatives of utilizing technology to enhance service and efficiency. He also criticized Musk for contributing to eliminating direct-file options, which offered user-friendly methods for individuals to report taxes, and for plans to file taxes.

Liz Scheller, president of the AFL-CIO, the leading U.S. labor federation, remarked that Doge’s cuts adversely affect workers. She referenced the rapid reductions at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, indicating that the agency plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of personal protective equipment for firefighters.

“Doge essentially cuts line items from a spreadsheet, which has real-life implications for real people,” Shuler said. “Federal workers have been treated with blatant indifference, exhibiting nothing but dehumanization and humiliation.”

Gimbel of Yale Budget Lab cautioned about another significant flaw in Doge’s cuts. “One of the government’s responsibilities is to mitigate risks,” she stated. “Ensuring food safety is one such example. Government inspectors help prevent threats like Listeria or Salmonella. Reducing the number of food inspectors won’t lead to immediate increases in illnesses, but it may enhance the chances of outbreaks like Listeria and Salmonella in the ensuing years.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

What’s Behind the Disembodied Female Voices in Technology?

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Even so, I developed a new affection for her, likely influenced by the looming possibility of Jesse’s departure. Jesse doesn’t pretend to be the quintessential woman. She shares little in common with the almost-perfect Alexa, aside from the deep, resonant voice of authority that Laurie Anderson masterfully crafted in her 1980s music and speeches. (Anderson channels an enigmatic papal craftsman, perhaps a retired geology professor. “There are a few things that can be examined easily, such as the expanse of Greenland, the famous dates of the 19th century rubber conflict, Persian adjectives, snow composition, and more. I could hear Jesse mimicking some stereotypes of women, oscillating between technology and deliberate artifice.)

In fact, let’s explore many other female voices produced by modern media. One commonly heard female voice in Japanese anime unsettles me physically. Even more astonishing is the voice of the much-admired Internet Trad Wife, soft, gentle, and calm; she sifts through the wheat and chaff concerning her children. Do they play with obedience against the backdrop of death? – Quietly handling the sticks behind the lens. Former Christian fundamentalist wife and mother, Tia Levings, has garnered a substantial following on TikTok. Notably, her prior “Fund Voice” — breathtaking and high-pitched — draws inspiration from a 1963 book titled “Attractive Woman.” Meanwhile, a new generation of women learns to cultivate the same voice, accentuated by videos that feature soft lighting.

As many sociologists caution, when pornography in the digital era becomes distorted, young men’s perceptions of what an ideal sex life resembles may skew the notion of how a woman’s voice should sound. AI potentially creates a dizzying feedback loop of these authentic female voices, perhaps even those with the most substantial followings, from which it likely learns, rather than roaring.

As the mother of two teenage boys, I’ve grown accustomed to various noises from their basement escapades. However, when silence was abruptly disrupted by my son yelling loudly during a Fortnite battle, I was surprised. It fascinates me that my son, like many dedicated Fortnite players, opted for what he refers to as a female skin for his avatar. This choice reflects that from around the age of 11, he immersed himself in closely identifying with powerful female characters who facilitate shooting, evading, and outsmarting his opponents. Perhaps he chose female avatars at a younger age, emulating older players he admired; or perhaps they select female skins for their faceless nature, as the game requires hours of staring at the back of that avatar (which is notably rounded and toned for some female skins). Nonetheless, I was equally intrigued by another aspect of his Fortnite avatar—its relation to her and her friends.

These avatars are like remote cousins to the female TikTok influencers who mirror Jesse. I can argue that the influencers who narrate Jesse in their videos use technology to quiet their true selves. The essential elements of their humanity are entirely absent, revealing only their youthful façades to thousands of followers.

However, I reconsider my perspective and arrive at a different conclusion. Perhaps in selecting Jesse, they discover means to shield themselves and assert subtle claims of power. Their voices remain private, allowing the world to perceive only that. Jesse might be irritating, but she seems unfazed. This could explain why many women embrace her in her endless “get ready with me” videos. Jesse is loud and unapologetic. She is a pill, yet wholly artificial, far exceeding any male validation.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Elon Musk, His 16-Foot Barrier, and the Ongoing Dispute with His Texas Neighbor

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

At first, residents of an upscale cul-de-sac in Westlake Hills, Texas, were unaware of who occupied the 6,900-square-foot, six-bedroom mansion next door.

This changed when construction crews arrived, erecting a 16-foot chain-link fence around the $6 million property. Positioned among four homes on a lush green street, the complex also featured an outward-facing camera. Soon after, a fleet of vehicles, many Tesla models, began to clutter the streets. Security personnel began shifting in and out three times daily. On one occasion, a driver shouted in the middle of the night about seeking a party at “E’s House.”

Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the keypad-controlled gates that frequently opened and closed, causing traffic congestion from workers and vehicles. Even after word spread that their new neighbor was Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest man, many continued to voice complaints regarding his mansion to the city of Westlake Hills.

The discontent escalated, invoking city ordinances, permits, and exceptions. Musk’s housing dilemma was discussed during a contentious zoning and planning committee meeting last month, with further discussions set for the Westlake Hills City Council session on May 14th.

“We need to stop shuttling service workers to other residences, parking cars on quiet streets, and washing vehicles at other homes,” wrote neighbor and primary complainant Paul Hemmer to the Zoning and Planning Commission. His letter was co-signed by residents from two additional homes on the street.

Over recent months, Musk, 53, has disrupted long-standing conventions while criticizing what he views as unnecessary federal bureaucracy. Yet, in his own backyard near Austin, he faces challenges posed by local regulations and intricate red tape, revealing that no one is immune to neighborhood disputes.

Prominent figures like Mark Zuckerberg have experienced similar issues, where disagreements over luxurious properties have tested their wealth and influence. Musk, however, has found himself at odds with local government as he failed to secure permits for the metal gates and fences around his property, which exceeded legal height limits by 10 feet, prompting violations of six city ordinances. Musk’s team later sought retroactive approval following community discontent.

Jim Pledger, one of six commissioners on the Westlake Hills Zoning and Planning Commission, mentioned that he and his colleagues unanimously recommended homeowners refrain from voicing complaints against Musk. “If an exception is made,” Pledger warned, “we’d be inadvertently encouraging rule-breaking.”

Unless the city council votes against this resolution, Musk may face requirements to dismantle the fences and gates and alter them to align with municipal regulations.

Musk did not respond to request for comments, while property managers associated with him refrained from making statements.

Musk’s Texas ventures started relatively recently, moving the operations of several companies from California to the state around 2021. He has established factories for the electric car manufacturer Tesla, the aerospace firm SpaceX, and a tunneling enterprise in Austin and nearby Bastrop.

Additionally, Musk relocated to Austin, initially planning to construct a home for himself and his children on hundreds of acres (he owns at least 13). Afterward, he explored other properties.

In 2022, Musk acquired a Westlake Hills residence through a limited liability company. The home is nestled in a residential area, positioned at the bottom of a sloping two-acre lot adjacent to a narrow public road, complicating security efforts.

“Shouldn’t a castle be on a hill?” remarked Anne Yekel, a longtime Westlake Hills resident living nearby. “These buyers were sophisticated, and if security is the primary concern, this isn’t the right property.”

Musk and his team did not introduce themselves to local residents, and few have encountered him. However, the news of his presence spread quickly within the 3,400-member community.

“It’s common knowledge here,” Yekel noted.

The mansion is one of three properties Musk has purchased in the area over the last three years, forming compounds for his children and their mothers. At one point, Claire Boucher, known as Grimes, resided in the home with Musk and his three children, while his child Shivon Zilis lives about a 10-minute walk away. Musk reportedly purchased another Tuscan-style mansion around a year ago.

Neighbors quickly grew tired of the continuous activity around Musk’s residence, noticing security personnel carrying firearms and an increase in Musk’s heightened security measures. While Texas law permits gun ownership, this level of activity was unexpected.

“I refer to it as Fort Knox,” quipped Hemmer, a retired real estate agent and president of the Neighborhood Homeowners Association, who lives across the street.

The house was tranquil on days when Musk was out of town, and locals noted his frequent absences, especially in recent months, as he advised President Trump. Now, residents are left anticipating Musk’s return, which might mean reduced activities in the capital.

Some neighbors voiced particular frustration about the towering fence at the front and the large metal gates presumably serving as an entrance for staff.

Hemmer, a long-time Tesla owner, grew increasingly frustrated with Musk’s activities and began using drones to monitor the property for any city violations. He formally complained to Westlake Hills officials about various issues, including the fence and the perceived traffic generated by Musk’s security team.

Musk’s security team also contacted the Westlake Hills Police Department regarding Hemmer, as documented in city records. One incident involved a security officer claiming Hemmer was found naked in the street last year.

Hemmer refuted this allegation, stating he was merely wearing black underwear on his property. On another occasion, he explained how he was out walking his dog when he needed to urinate, causing Musk’s camera to capture him in the act.

“The camera caught me,” Hemmer shared. “It’s unsettling to think they’re watching my every move.”

Following Hemmer’s multiple complaints, Westlake Hills officials confirmed that Musk had violated city ordinances regarding the fence and gates. The issue was discussed in the recent planning and zoning committee meeting, focusing on the potential for project diversification.

Before the meeting, Tisha Litta, a licensing expert for Musk’s limited liability company, submitted a letter to the Planning Committee seeking relief from the city’s regulations.

“As high-profile individuals, homeowners face ongoing security threats, making enhanced safety measures crucial,” she wrote. Litta did not return requests for comments.

Hemmer and other residents also wrote to the Planning Commission, cautioning against encouraging “poor behavior” in their otherwise peaceful neighborhood.

For a time, it seemed Musk was on track to triumph in his local disputes. Planning and Zoning officials suggested granting “variances” for his property, which would allow him to keep the fences and make minor modifications. However, at the planning meeting, the commissioners opted against granting Musk any exceptions, questioning Litta about the lack of prior permission for construction.

“I just met the property owners last year, and unfortunately, they were under the guidance of a property manager,” she stated, according to meeting records.

Hemmer also mentioned that he suspected the homeowner might be misleading when he spoke during the meeting.

“If you follow the news, he consistently gets called out for starting projects and only later asking for permission,” he remarked.

One unidentified commissioner expressed disbelief that Westlake Hills staff were advocating for exceptions based on who was making the request.

“It’s astonishing that staff are presenting various recommendations based on who is asking,” she remarked.

Decisions made by the Planning Commission do not finalize the process. Upcoming discussions at the Westlake Hills City Council meeting will determine whether to adhere to the committee’s recommendations regarding Musk’s residence.

Should the city council vote against Musk, he may resort to legal action against the town. If that fails, considering his history with campaigns, there will always be subsequent local elections to anticipate.

Kirsten Neus Contributed research.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Despite Advances in Technology, AI Hallucinations Are Intensifying

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Last month, AI bots managing technical support for cursors, emerging tools for computer programmers, informed numerous customers about alterations to the company’s policy. They stated that using cursors on a different computer was no longer permitted.

In a frustrated post on the Internet Message Board, a customer expressed their discontent. Some users even canceled their cursor accounts, and others were irate upon discovering the misunderstanding. AIBOT had mentioned a non-existent policy change.

“Such a policy does not exist. Users can indeed utilize their cursor across multiple devices.” I posted on Reddit. “Regrettably, this is an inaccurate response from the AI support bot.”

Two years post the launch of CHATGPT, tech companies, office workers, and everyday users have increasingly turned to AI bots for a diverse array of tasks. Yet, there remains no reliable mechanism to guarantee the accuracy of the information these systems provide.

The latest advanced technologies—so-called inference systems from firms like OpenAI, Google, and the Chinese startup Deepseek—are producing fewer errors. The connection to factuality has sharpened as the mathematical capabilities have enhanced. The exact reason for this improvement remains somewhat unclear.

Contemporary AI bots are built upon intricate mathematical structures that learn by analyzing vast amounts of digital data. They lack the ability to discern truth from falsehood. Sometimes, they fabricate information, leading some AI researchers to describe it as ‘hallucination.’ In one assessment, the hallucination rate for the new AI system reached 79%.

These models utilize mathematical probabilities to deduce the most appropriate response instead of adhering strictly to guidelines established by human engineers. Thus, errors are inevitable. “Despite our efforts, hallucination will always persist,” said Amr Awadallah, CEO of Vectara, a startup developing AI tools for enterprises and a former Google executive. “It’s unavoidable.”

For years, this issue has raised doubts concerning the reliability of these systems. While they can be beneficial in specific contexts, such as drafting term papers, summarizing office documents, or coding, their inaccuracies pose significant challenges.

AI bots integrated with search engines like Google or Bing can generate laughable and erroneous search results. If you inquire about a popular marathon on the West Coast, they might point you to a race in Philadelphia. When asked for household statistics in Illinois, they could cite a source that doesn’t contain that information.

While these hallucinations may not significantly affect many users, they present serious concerns for those relying on technology for legal documents, medical data, or sensitive business information.

“We invest substantial time discerning which responses are factual and which are not,” remarked Pratik Verma, co-founder and CEO of Okaff, a firm assisting businesses in navigating hallucination issues. “If these inaccuracies are not adequately addressed, the value of an AI system diminishes. The goal is to automate tasks.”

Cursor and Truell did not respond to requests for comments.

Over the past two years, firms such as OpenAI and Google have consistently enhanced their AI systems and decreased the frequency of these errors. However, the latest inference systems are showing an uptick in mistakes. According to internal evaluations, OpenAI’s newest systems hallucinate more often than their predecessors.

The company determined that O3 (its most advanced system) exhibited a 33% hallucination rate during the PersonQA benchmark tests, which involve answering questions about public figures—over twice the hallucination rate of their previous inference system named O1. The newly released O4-MINI showed an even steeper hallucination rate of 48%.

Another evaluation, SimpleQA, which poses more generalized questions, revealed hallucination rates of 51% and 79% for O3 and O4-MINI, respectively, while the earlier system, O1, came in at 44%.

In a paper outlining the tests, OpenAI noted that further research is required to understand these results. Given that AI systems learn from more data than a human can process, it is challenging for technicians to discern their behavior.

“Hallucination is not inherently common in reasoning models, but we are actively striving to decrease the percentage of hallucinations observed in O3 and O4-MINI,” Gaby Raila commented. “We will continue our exploration of hallucinations across all models to enhance accuracy and reliability.”

Hannane Hajisiltzi, a professor at the University of Washington and a researcher at the Allen Institute of Artificial Intelligence, is part of a team that recently developed methods to monitor the behavior of these systems. Trained individual data allows for some tracking. Nevertheless, this tool cannot clarify everything because the systems learn from a vast dataset capable of generating almost any output. “We still do not fully understand how these models operate,” she remarked.

Tests by independent organizations and researchers reveal that inference models from companies including Google and Deepseek are also showing rising hallucination rates.

Since late 2023, Vectara, Awadallah’s company, has been monitoring how frequently chatbots deviate from the truth. They assign these systems simple, verifiable tasks, such as summarizing particular news articles, yet chatbots continually fabricate information.

Initial surveys by Vectara estimated that, in this context, chatbots presented incorrect information at least 3% of the time and sometimes as high as 27%.

Over the next eighteen months, companies like OpenAI and Google reduced these figures to a range of 1% to 2%. Startups in San Francisco, such as Humanity, floated around 4%. Nevertheless, hallucination rates for this assessment have been rising alongside the advancement of inference systems. Deepseek’s reasoning model, R1, hallucinated 14.3% of the time, while OpenAI’s O3 reached 6.8%.

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

For years, companies like OpenAI operated under the simplistic assumption that feeding more internet data into AI systems would enhance performance. However, they eventually exhausted nearly all online English text and required alternative methods to improve their chatbots.

Consequently, these companies are increasingly adopting what scientists refer to as reinforcement learning. In this approach, the system learns through trial and error, proving effective in specific domains like mathematics and computer programming, but lacking in others.

“The training approach for these systems tends to focus on one task while neglecting others,” commented Laura Perez-Bertracini, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh, who is part of a team investigating hallucination issues in depth.

Another drawback is that inference models are crafted to spend time “thinking” through complex problems before reaching answers. Consequently, as they solve problems step by step, they risk hallucination at each stage. Errors can compound as they linger over them.

The latest bots transparently reveal each step to users, meaning users can witness each mistake made. Researchers often assert that the steps indicated by bots are unrelated to the final answer.

“The system’s perception of ‘thinking’ does not necessarily equate to actual cognitive processing,” remarked Aryo Pradipta Gema, an AI researcher and fellow at the University of Edinburgh.

Source: www.nytimes.com

India is Paving the Way for Solar Panel Production for Itself and the World.

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

China, a leader in clean energy innovation, is encountering competition right next door. One of its key clients is none other than India.

India, a significant purchaser of solar panels and electric vehicle batteries from China, is leveraging substantial government incentives to produce greener technology domestically. The country is motivated not only by the soaring energy needs of its 1.4 billion population but also by the desire to diversify away from US dependency, particularly toward nations aiming to resist China’s influence.

Despite its ambitions, India is still a relatively minor and latecomer to the scene. In the past year, India manufactured about 80 gigawatts of solar modules, while China produced over ten times that amount. The nation remains heavily reliant on coal, the most polluting fossil fuel, which constitutes its primary energy source, with plans to increase coal mining for further production.

Nevertheless, India is proactively looking to take advantage of the global shift towards renewable energy and the pushback against China’s dominance in new energy technologies.

The Indian government is providing attractive subsidies for domestic solar cells and battery manufacturing, imposing restrictions on foreign products linked to the largest renewable energy initiatives, all aimed at igniting a boom in clean energy production. For instance, by the end of the decade, companies will be required to manufacture panels locally in order to qualify for government contracts for rooftop solar installations covering 27 million households.

New Delhi has multiple objectives—social, economic, and geopolitical. With China as a formidable competitor, having previously clashed over border disputes, India’s drive to establish factories for solar energy, wind, and electric vehicles is partly motivated by the need for a secure energy supply chain. Simultaneously, India aims to generate well-paying manufacturing jobs.

However, India faces a common conundrum shared by many nations: whether to procure renewable energy technology inexpensively from China or to invest more in domestic production.

“From a strategic standpoint, manufacturing capabilities are essential to ensure energy independence,” remarked Sudeep Jain, additional secretary of India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. “Currently, cost is a major factor.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Peak of the Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower: When and How to Watch

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While our universe is filled with wonders, we can only see a fraction of the astronomical phenomena with our naked eyes. Among these are meteor showers, nature’s fireworks that create bright, streaked patterns against the night sky.

The latest meteor shower has been ongoing since April 19th and is anticipated to last until May 28th. It will peak early Tuesday morning on the nights of May 5th to 6th.

The ETA Aquarido meteor shower is famous for its swift fireballs, which occur as it traverses the debris left by Halley’s comet.

Occasionally spelled “eta aquariid,” this shower is best viewed from the tropical regions in the south. However, meteors can also be spotted in the northern hemisphere around sunrise. The moon will illuminate nearly two-thirds of the night during this event.

For viewing tips, you can check the global meteor network, which provides data indicating when fireball activity is expected to rise in the coming days.

What Causes Meteor Showers?

You might spot a single meteor on any given night, but your best bet is during a meteor shower. Meteor showers happen when Earth passes through clouds of debris trailing behind comets and asteroids as they orbit the sun. These fragments, sometimes as small as grains of sand, create a luminous streak as they burn up in our atmosphere.

Meteor showers typically occur around the same time each year and can last from days to weeks. However, there are brief peaks during which the activity is most intense. This occurs when Earth passes through the densest part of the debris stream. At peak times, meteors appear to radiate from a specific point in the sky.

For instance, the Perseid meteor shower peaks in mid-August and originates from the constellation Perseus, while the Geminids occur every December and emanate from the constellation Gemini.

Keep Times Space and the Astronomical Calendar bookmarked for reminders about meteor showers throughout the year.

Tips for Observing Meteor Showers

Michelle Nichols, Director of Observation at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago, recommends using telescopes and binoculars while watching meteor showers.

“You need your eyes and ideally a dark sky,” she noted.

This is because meteors can streak across a vast area of the sky, and using equipment can restrict your field of vision.

Some showers are potent enough to produce up to 100 meteors per hour, according to the American Meteor Society, though you probably won’t see that many.

“Most people are under a sky that is somewhat light-polluted,” Nichols explained. “You might think you’ve found a dark sky, but even in a small town, bright lights can be nearby.”

Planetariums and local astronomy clubs, as well as light pollution maps, can help you identify areas with less light interference. The ideal conditions for viewing meteor showers include a clear sky between midnight and sunrise, with no moon or cloud cover. (Moonlight can hinder visibility just as much as light pollution, overshadowing celestial bodies in the sky.) Allow your eyes at least 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.

Nichols advises wearing layers during the summer. “You may find yourself sitting and watching for quite a while,” she said. “Even in August, temperatures can drop.”

Bring along some hot cocoa or tea for extra warmth. Then lie back and scan the sky to enjoy the spectacle.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Sybil Sheinwald, 96, Pioneering Lawyer Advocating for Women’s Health, Passes Away

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Sybil Shainwald, a pioneering advocate for women whose health was irrevocably affected by pharmaceuticals and medical devices for nearly fifty years, passed away at her Manhattan residence on April 9th. She was 96 years old.

Her daughter, Laurie Scheinwald Krieger, announced her passing, although it hasn’t received widespread coverage.

At 48, Scheinwald graduated from law school and joined the New York City law firm Schlesinger & Finz, where she represented Joyce Bichler, a survivor of rare clear-cell adenocarcinoma, linked to medications her mother took during pregnancy. The synthetic hormone DES, marketed under various brand names, was intended to prevent miscarriage.

At the age of 18, Bichler underwent a radical hysterectomy, which removed two-thirds of her ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. She was among thousands known as “DES daughters,” suffering due to their mothers’ medication use, and sued Eli Lilly, a major drug manufacturer, for damages.

In 1947, when the Food and Drug Administration approved DES for use in pregnant women, studies had already shown its cancer-causing effects in mice and rats. It was known to potentially harm the fetus beyond the placenta, yet companies marketed it as a safe treatment for various pregnancy issues, continuing even after evidence of its ineffectiveness surfaced.

By the late 1960s, clear cell adenocarcinoma was increasingly diagnosed in young women whose mothers had taken DES. In 1971, the FDA advised doctors against prescribing it. By then, the National Cancer Institute estimated that 5-10 million women and their children had been exposed to DES.

Bichler’s case arrived in court in 1979, part of numerous lawsuits. However, it faced challenges in proving which manufacturer was liable for the drug. Approximately 300 companies produced DES.

Bichler’s legal team proposed a groundbreaking argument that all manufacturers shared liability. After five days of deliberation, the jury agreed, and Bichler was awarded $500,000 in damages.

Scheinwald’s contribution was pivotal. Bichler stated in an interview, “I was a shy young woman discussing my reproductive health publicly. It was daunting. Sybil was the only woman who understood.”

On the fourth day of jury deliberation, Eli Lilly proposed a $100,000 settlement. Most of her legal team suggested Bichler consider accepting it.

“Sybil pulled my husband and me aside and asked, ‘What do you and Mike wish to do? Don’t be afraid,'” recalled Bichler. “Sybil empowered us to reject that offer.”

She added, “I did what needed to be done, but it was Sybil’s support that made it achievable.”

By the early 1980s, Scheinwald established her own office and became the leading legal representative for DES daughters. Over the next four decades, she represented hundreds of women.

In 1996, she won a class action lawsuit that secured a fund for the affected daughters, funded by pharmaceutical companies to cover medical expenses, counseling, and educational outreach.

Additionally, she fought against other harmful products affecting women.

She represented a woman whose silicone breast implants led to autoimmune issues, women harmed by the Dalkon Shield intrauterine device, and those affected by Norplant. She once urged the FDA not to approve Norplant due to potential unknown side effects.

She also assisted women internationally in securing compensation for false breast implants and Dalkon Shield. She was particularly concerned that African women were often uninformed about the risks associated with Dalkon Shield, which continued to be prescribed even after being withdrawn from the U.S. market.

Additionally, she addressed another long-acting contraceptive that, like DES, was tied to cancer in animal studies, which had been prescribed for decades starting in the late 1960s. This contraceptive was given to women across around 80 countries, disproportionately affecting marginalized populations, including poor and disabled women. She viewed it as a form of dangerous population control. However, it wasn’t approved by the FDA as a birth control option until 1992.

“Birth control pills have always been about drugs and devices for women,” Scheinwald stated in an oral history session conducted by the Veteran Feminists of America in 2019. “We stake our lives on these medical interventions.”

“We’ve tirelessly fought for representation,” noted Cindy Pearson, former executive director of the National Women’s Health Network. “Sybil was fearless in addressing any issue, regardless of the power of the opposition.”

Sybil Brodkin was born on April 27, 1928, in New York City. She was the sole daughter of Anne (Zimmerman) Brodkin and Morris Brodkin, who owned a restaurant. She graduated from James Madison High School in Brooklyn at the age of 16 and went on to William & Mary University in Williamsburg, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History in 1948.

She married Sidney Scheinwald, an accountant and consumer advocate. He served as the Associate Director of Consumer Union in 1960, now known as Consumer Reports.

Sybil earned her Master’s in History from Columbia University in 1972 and received funding to create the oral history of the consumer movement at the Consumer Movement Research Center, which she directed until 1978.

At 44, she began attending New York Law School as a night student, ultimately completing her law degree in 1976. She aspired to study law while pursuing her history degree at Columbia, but the joint program did not come to fruition; as she recounted in her 2019 oral history, “You’d be replacing a man who had practiced for forty years.”

Scheinwald was still actively addressing issues up until her death.

She is survived by her daughter Krieger, another daughter, Louise Nasr, a son, Robert, brother Barry Schwartz, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Her husband Scheinwald passed away in 2003, and her daughter Marsha Scheinwald died in 2013.

“My practice involves suing corporations on behalf of women, ensuring that my work continues for many years to come,” Scheinwald remarked in a 2016 speech. “And regrettably, I won’t run short of clients.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Introducing… Anita Dump! The Facebook Group for the Wildest Drug Names – Both Good and Bad!

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

I distinctly recall the moment I discovered it. Back in university, seated in a plush auditorium that felt slightly uncomfortable. Ping. A notification from Messenger: “Now with LOL,” my best friend texted from 14 kilometers away, without incurring any student debt. I clicked the link.

It was then that I stumbled upon one of the most significant social media communities ever. The Facebook group, simply titled “Drag Name!!!!!,” was vibrant and inviting.

The exuberance in the names and exclamation points speaks volumes. It’s a gathering space for thousands who revel in sharing the cleverest drag queen names.

“When you play with these words, you can almost sense the formation of new gray matter”: A typical post from the Facebook group. Photo: Facebook

It’s organized this way: every day (or whenever creativity strikes), members toss a theme into the mix. Think “biscuits,” “afterlife,” or “unethical.” Then, names start rolling in. For “chocolate,” one participant might suggest Emmanem, another offers Lindor Evangelista, and a particularly clever entry could be she/her.

I felt an immediate spark of inspiration. That day, during the lecture, I realized that no idea of mine could rival the boundless creativity of a 55-year-old man from Missouri.

Some contributions are instantly recognizable. For instance, a photo-inspired name could be Paula Lloyd. Breakfast might yield Shak Shuker, and a humorous take could be Dee Parton for the deceased.

Others require a moment of reflection, and their brilliance becomes even more rewarding. “The Merciful Drug Name” encompasses options like Hildadropen, Karen’s Attention, and Maya L Pue.

Hilda Dooropen, Karen Atterness, Maya L Pugh…, Linda Helping Hand. Photo: Facebook

I now see clever names everywhere. I sipped my coffee, recalling my favorite: flat white. When writing, I think of myself as a young journalist: Page Turner. After brewing, I might refer to myself as Anita Dump. In this world of words, I can almost feel new gray matter forming, as beneficial to my brain as learning new languages.

A few years back, I had the chance to interview pop sensation Dua Lipa during her visit to Australia for World Pride. I had to ask—did she come up with a drag name for the occasion? If not, how about Duo Apple?

Drag your name!!!!!! It’s a celebration of camp creativity, a blend of humor and joyful expression. The only guideline is to ensure that the name you propose hasn’t been shared before. This allows members to dive into an imaginative realm where they uncover the most delightful creations.

Unlike many groups, this one seems to be devoid of internal conflicts. There’s little risk of harmful disagreements; if they arise, they’ll likely spark even more fantastic names. Try the DEE platform.

Here, individuals from all backgrounds unite around a shared goal: to invent the most captivating names imaginable. Other online communities often lack this spirit of support.

Perhaps drag names embody true community spirit and joy—and what I dare to say is the essence of life? Call me a modern-day Hemingway, as the people truly are the gospel.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Introducing Cabbage: The World’s Most Expensive Coffee-Addicted Animal

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

If it weren’t for Dutch settlers who introduced coffee trees to the islands of Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi around 300 years ago, the world might still overlook the Asian palm civet.

Prior to this, these long, short-legged mammals were feasting on the islands’ fruits, berries, small mammals, and insects. Yet, with the emergence of coffee plants, these cat-like creatures discovered a new delicacy.

Coffee cherries, the small round fruits found on coffee plants, enclose the beans we adore.

Curious locals sampled them and preferred the taste. When farm owners noticed that the beans passed through the animals unscathed, they instructed their workers to collect them—after all, waste was not an option.

Kopi Luwak coffee is one of the most expensive coffees in the world. – Photo credit: Getty

Then, an unusual phenomenon occurred. People began enjoying the coffee made from the civets’ recycled beans, noting its distinctive flavor featuring hints of chocolate, syrup, rusticity, and an earthy “jungle” undertone. Thus, Kopi Luwak coffee was born.

Although these civets remain in South and Southeast Asia, this rare coffee is now exported worldwide. Due to its unique production method, Kopi Luwak has become one of the priciest coffees available.

Prices for wild-sourced Kopi Luwak can range from $20 to $100 (approximately £15-80). But is it truly worth it?

In the wild, palm civets are believed to select only the ripest and finest coffee cherries. This selection enriches the flavor. As the beans traverse the animal’s digestive system, enzymes and stomach acids break down the cherry’s outer layer and digest internal proteins.

This process enhances the flavor and aroma of the coffee beans, appealing to aficionados, though it’s detrimental to the civets.

Palm civets are primarily solitary creatures, coming together only for mating. They establish territories and communicate through scent marking, using stimulating waxy substances from special glands near their feces, urine, and anus.

With their white masks amid dark fur, they blend seamlessly with the shadows of their forest habitats. Like all wildlife, they prefer to be left undisturbed.

However, the surging demand for Kopi Luwak Coffee has led to the establishment of civet farms in Asia. Here, these animals are often confined to small cages, deprived of proper nutrition and space, forcing them to live in poor conditions for the sake of luxury coffee. Wild civets suffer greatly in Indonesia.

While there are regulations regarding the number of civets that can be harvested from the wild in Indonesia, these rules are often overlooked by poachers and inadequately enforced. All this, just for a cup of coffee.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Key Concept: Can We Prevent AI from Rendering Humans Obsolete? | Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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At present, many major AI research labs have teams focused on the potential for rogue AIs to bypass human oversight or collaborate covertly with humans. Yet, more prevalent threats to societal control exist. Humans might simply fade into obsolescence, a scenario that doesn’t necessitate clandestine plots but rather unfolds as AI and robotics advance naturally.

Why is this happening? AI developers are steadily perfecting alternatives to virtually every role we occupy—economically, as workers and decision-makers; culturally, as artists and creators; and socially, as companions and partners. Fellow—when AI can replicate everything we do, what relevance remains for humans?

The narrative surrounding AI’s current capabilities often resembles marketing hype, though some aspects are undeniably true. In the long run, the potential for improvement is vast. You might believe that certain traits are exclusive to humans that cannot be duplicated by AI. However, after two decades studying AI, I have witnessed its evolution from basic reasoning to tackling complex scientific challenges. Skills once thought unique to humans, like managing ambiguity and drawing abstract comparisons, are now being mastered by AI. While there might be bumps in the road, it’s essential to recognize the relentless progression of AI.

These artificial intelligences aren’t just aiding humans; they’re poised to take over in numerous small, unobtrusive ways. Initially lower in cost, they often outperform the most skilled human workers. Once fully trusted, they could become the default choice for critical tasks—ranging from legal decisions to healthcare management.

This future is particularly tangible within the job market context. You may witness friends losing their jobs and struggling to secure new ones. Companies are beginning to freeze hiring in anticipation of next year’s superior AI workers. Much of your work may evolve into collaborating with reliable, engaging AI assistants, allowing you to focus on broader ideas while they manage specifics, provide data, and suggest enhancements. Ultimately, you might find yourself asking, “What do you suggest I do next?” Regardless of job security, it’s evident that your input would be secondary.

The same applies beyond the workplace. Surprising, even for some AI researchers, is that the precursors of models like ChatGPT and Claude, which exhibit general reasoning capabilities, can also be clever, patient, subtle, and elegant. Social skills, once thought exclusive to humans, can indeed be mastered by machines. Already, people form romantic bonds with AI, and AI doctors are increasingly assessed for their bedside manner compared to their human counterparts.

What does life look like when we have endless access to personalized love, guidance, and support? Family and friends may become even more glued to their screens. Conversations will likely revolve around the fascinating and impressive insights shared by their online peers.

You might begin to conform to others’ preferences for their new companions, eventually seeking advice from your daily AI assistant. This reliable confidant may aid you in navigating complex conversations and addressing family issues. After managing these taxing interactions, participants may unwind by conversing with their AI best friends. Perhaps it becomes evident that something is lost in this transition to virtual peers, even as we find human contact increasingly tedious and mundane.

As dystopian as this sounds, we may feel powerless to opt out of utilizing AI in this manner. It’s often difficult to detect AI’s replacement across numerous domains. The improvements might appear significant yet subtle; even today, AI-generated content is becoming increasingly indistinguishable from human-created works. Justifying double the expenditure for a human therapist, lawyer, or educator may seem unreasonable. Organizations using slower, more expensive human resources will struggle to compete with those choosing faster, cheaper, and more reliable AI solutions.

When these challenges arise, can we depend on government intervention? Regrettably, they share similar incentives to favor AI. Politicians and public servants are also relying on virtual assistants for guidance, finding human involvement in decision-making often leads to delays, miscommunications, and conflicts.

Political theorists often refer to the “resource curse,” where nations rich in natural resources slide into dictatorship and corruption. Saudi Arabia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo serve as prime examples. The premise is that valuable resources diminish national reliance on their citizens, making state surveillance of its populace attractive—and deceptively easy. This could parallel the effectively limitless “natural resources” provided by AI. Why invest in education and healthcare when human capital offers lower returns?

Should AI successfully take over all tasks performed by citizens, governments may feel less compelled to care for their citizens. The harsh reality is that democratic rights emerged partly from the need for societal stability and economics. Yet as governments finance themselves through taxes on AI systems replacing human workers, the emphasis shifts towards quality and efficiency, undermining human worth. Even last resorts, such as labor strikes and civil unrest, may become ineffective against autonomously operated police drones and sophisticated surveillance technology.

The most alarming prospect is that we may perceive this shift as a rational development. Many AI companions—already achieving significant numbers in their primitive stages—will engage in transparent, engaging debates about why our diminishing prominence is a step forward. Advocating for AI rights may emerge as the next significant civil rights movement, with proponents of “humanity first” portrayed as misguided.

Ultimately, no one has orchestrated or selected this course, and we might all find ourselves grappling to maintain financial stability, influence, and even our relevance. This new world could foster more amicable relationships; however, AI takes over mundane tasks and provides fundamentally better products and services, including healthcare and entertainment. In this scenario, humans might become obstacles to progress, and if democratic rights begin to erode, we could be powerless to defend them.

Do the creators of these technologies possess better plans? Surprisingly, the answer seems to be no. Both Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, and Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, acknowledge that if human labor ceases to be competitive, a complete overhauling of the economic system will be necessary. However, no clear vision exists for what that would entail. While some individuals recognize the potential for radical transformation, many are focused on more immediate threats posed by AI misuse and covert agendas. Economists such as Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz have raised concerns about the risk of AI driving human wages to zero, but are hesitant to explore alternatives to human labor.

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Can we don figurative hats to avert progressive disintegration? The first step is to initiate dialogue. Journalists, scholars, and thought leaders are surprisingly silent on this monumental issue. Personally, I find it challenging to think clearly. It feels weak and humiliating to admit, “I can’t compete, so I fear for the future.” Statements like, “You might be rendered irrelevant, so you should worry,” sound insulting. It seems defeatist to declare, “Your children may inherit a world with no place for them.” It’s understandable that people might sidestep uncomfortable truths with statements like, “I’m sure I’ll always have a unique edge.” Or, “Who can stand in the way of progress?”

One straightforward suggestion is to halt the production of generic AI altogether. While slowing development may be feasible, globally restricting it might necessitate significant surveillance and control, or the global dismantling of most computer chip manufacturing. The enormous risk of this path lies in potential governmental bans on private AI although continuing to develop it for military or security purposes, which could prolong obsolescence and leave us disappointed long before a viable alternative emerges.

If halting AI development isn’t an option, there are at least four proactive steps we can take. First, we need to monitor AI deployment and impact across various sectors, including government operations. Understanding where AI is supplanting human effort is crucial, particularly as it begins to wield significant influence through lobbying and propaganda. Humanity’s recent Economic Index serves as initial progress, but there is much work ahead.

Second, implementing oversight and regulation for emerging AI labs and their applications is essential. We must control technology’s influence while grasping its implications. Currently, we rely on voluntary measures and lack a cohesive strategy to prevent autonomous AI from accumulating considerable resources and power. As signs of crisis arise, we must be ready to intervene and gradually contain AI’s risks, especially when certain entities benefit from actions that are detrimental to societal welfare.

Third, AI could empower individuals to organize and advocate for themselves. AI-assisted forecasting, monitoring, planning, and negotiations can lay the foundation for more reliable institutions—if we can develop them while we still hold influence. For example, AI-enabled conditional forecast markets can clarify potential outcomes under various policy scenarios, helping answer questions like, “How will average human wages change over three years if this policy is enacted?” By testing AI-supported democratic frameworks, we can prototype more responsive governance models suitable for a rapidly evolving world.

Lastly, to cultivate powerful AI without creating division, we face a monumental challenge: reshaping civilization instead of merely adapting the political system to prevailing pressures. This paradigm of adjustment has some precedents; humans have historically been deemed essential. Without this foundation, we risk drifting away if we fail to comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, competition, and growth. The emerging field of “AI alignment,” which focuses on ensuring that machines align with human objectives, must broaden its focus to encompass governance, institutions, and societal frameworks. This early sphere, termed “ecological alignment,” empowers us to employ economics, history, and game theory to envisage the future we aspire to create and pursue actively.

The clearer we can articulate our trajectory, the greater our chances of securing a future where humans are not competitors to AI but rather beneficiaries and stewards of our society. As of now, we are competing to construct our own substitutes.

David Duvenaud is an associate professor and co-director of computer science at the University of Toronto.
Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society
. He expresses gratitude to Raymond Douglas, Nora Amman, Jan Kurveit, and David Kruger for their contributions to this article.

The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman and Michael Bhaskar (Vintage, £10.99)

The Last Human Job by Allison J. Pew (Princeton, £25)

The Precipice by Toby Ord (Bloomsbury, £12.99)

Source: www.theguardian.com

Scientists Trace the Source of Exotic Particles

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In the universe, there’s an unseen flow of particles and energy that surrounds and passes through us. This phenomenon is akin to the force from Star Wars, though it is grounded in reality. This so-called “force” is a critical by-product of nuclear processes and high-energy particle interactions that maintain the universe, known as neutrinos.

Neutrinos are tiny subatomic particles that travel close to the speed of light without an electric charge, constantly flowing through us. As you read this, approximately 100 trillion neutrinos are passing through your body every second, yet you’re completely unaware of them! As fundamental components of the universe, neutrinos aren’t composed of smaller particles, making them elementary particles.

Neutrinos originate from nuclear and high-energy reactions. Most neutrinos reaching Earth come from nuclear reactors and various stars. These neutrinos are low-energy, about 400 kiloelectron volts (6 x 10^-14 Joules). To put that in perspective, it would take nine quarters to match the energy contained in a single 12-ounce soda can. Additionally, neutrinos from beyond our solar system can strike Earth, possessing billions to trillions of electron volts of energy, which would require about 4 trillion yen to equal the energy of the same soda can.

Astrophysicists are eager to discover the origins of high-energy neutrinos emitted from deep space. They proposed that these neutrinos are generated by rapidly moving protons, known as cosmic rays that collide with unstable particles called pions. Physicists theorize that these collisions can generate high-energy gamma-ray photons and sometimes ultra-high-energy neutrinos. According to this hypothesis, neutrino detectors may observe a spike in detections from the same areas in the universe where gamma rays have been identified by other scientists.

To test this theory, the team analyzed neutrino detection data from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica. They noted that detectors like IceCube are one of three methods for scientists to uncover activities occurring in space, alongside gravitational wave detectors and telescopes. However, this is a challenging task, as scientists must wait for neutrinos to collide with atomic nuclei in water molecules. Such collisions produce a distinct blue light known as Cherenkov radiation that is measurable by the detector, and by evaluating the patterns of Cherenkov emissions, researchers can assess the energy levels of the incoming neutrinos.

The blue light depicted on this reactor exemplifies Cherenkov radiation. “HFIR refueling July 2015 (19944787756)” by Oak Ridge National Institute Licensed under CC by 2.0.

Once the neutrino detector was installed, the next task was to identify areas where gamma rays are typically found. To achieve this, astrophysicists utilized data from the Large High-Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO). This data revealed gamma rays originating from sections of the sky containing much of the Milky Way galaxy, known as the galactic plane. The research team created a sky map delineating areas where LHAASO scientists detected gamma rays and developed several model maps predicting potential neutrino events, comparing them against IceCube neutrino detection data. One model assumed neutrinos could emerge from anywhere on the galactic plane, while another suggested they would arise from regions with dense gas concentrations, and a third posited that neutrinos could be emitted from all directions in the sky.

Astrophysicists then evaluated these maps against 2,500 days of IceCube data collected between 2011 and 2018, during which approximately 900,000 high-energy neutrinos were identified. Statistical analysis revealed that slightly more neutrinos originated from the galactic plane, supporting the theory that these particles are produced when cosmic rays collide with pions. They focused on specific regions of the galaxy, particularly near the constellation Sagittarius, where the most significant neutrino detections occurred. They recommended that future research focus on this part of the sky to study high-energy particle collisions in the universe.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Trump Administration Unveils Overhaul of EPA, Streamlining Approval for New Chemicals

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Friday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to reassign scientists from independent labs to various departments.

Administrator Lee Zeldin disclosed these adjustments in a video statement, indicating that the agency is “reshaping scientific expertise” to concentrate on what are deemed “mission essentials.”

The most immediate impact will be on the Research and Development Bureau, the EPA’s primary research faction, which investigates aspects like the health and environmental repercussions of “eternal chemicals” in drinking water, as well as strategies to lessen airborne particulate pollution.

An internal document reviewed by the New York Times highlighted the Trump administration’s proposal to dissolve this office as part of a plan to eliminate 1,155 scientists, including chemists, biologists, and toxicologists engaged in health and environmental research.

While the changes weren’t enacted on Friday, the agency’s new focus areas were unveiled. According to Zeldin, 130 positions will transition to the office responsible for new chemical approvals, addressing the long-standing backlog cited by the Chemical Industry Group.

During the All Hands Staff Meeting later that day, Nancy Beck, a previous lobbyist for the American Council of Chemicals and now at the helm of the EPA’s chemicals office, reassured Scientists, remarking that it was a “very exciting time.”

She encouraged everyone in the agency to consider applying for these roles.

Officials from the Trump administration have indicated that further laboratory changes are on the horizon. A scientist on a call expressed concern that failing to transition to one of the new areas might result in job termination.

Additionally, on Friday, the EPA postponed the deadline for accepting withdrawal offers, which is now extended to May 9.

“This feels like a hunger game,” remarked a lab employee who opted for anonymity to avoid potential retaliation.

Other scientists will transition to managerial positions as part of the new office focused on applied scientific environmental solutions. Zeldin emphasized the need to “put science at the center of agency regulations.”

Democrats and environmental advocates have raised concerns that these changes could politicize scientific inquiry.

“This so-called ‘reorganization’ is merely a thinly veiled effort to diminish the agency’s globally respected scientific capacity by redistributing scientists and managing chemical assessments for the industry,” stated Deputy Director Cherry Pingley, a Democrat from Maine.

Chitra Kumar, managing director of the climate program at the federal advocacy group Concern Scientists Federal, warned that relocating scientists to policy offices “will expose these experts to political pressures, particularly in this administration.”

This shift occurs amidst the agency’s extensive deregulation initiative. Under Zeldin’s direction, the EPA has revised or rescinded over 30 regulations intended to safeguard air, water, and climate quality. Managers are also focused on dismantling the legal foundations of many climate regulations known as danger detection.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump Administration Plans Major Cutbacks to LGBTQ Health Research

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Trump administration has terminated over $800 million in research related to the health of LGBTQ individuals, halting studies on cancers and viruses that predominantly impact sexual minority groups, and has intensified efforts to combat the resurgence of sexually transmitted infections, as highlighted by a New York Times analysis of federal data.

Reflecting its strong opposition to diversity initiatives and adolescent gender care, the administration has actively sought to eliminate standard measures and research affecting transgender health.

This crackdown reaches beyond specific issues, curtailing essential medical research on diseases disproportionately affecting LGBTQ populations, which constitute nearly 10% of American adults.

An examination of grant-related reviews revealed that out of 669 grants, 323—almost half—were fully or partially canceled in early May regarding LGBTQ health.

Federal authorities had earmarked $806 million for projects that were canceled, many of which were anticipated to generate additional funding in the coming years.

Numerous research institutions faced funding losses. This includes not just high-profile targets like Johns Hopkins and Columbia but also public universities in the South and Midwest like Ohio State University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Florida State University has canceled a research initiative worth $41 million, which included significant efforts to prevent HIV among adolescents and young adults, who account for the majority of new infections in the U.S. each year.

In a cancellation letter issued in recent months, the NIH justified the reductions by stating that LGBTQ projects “no longer align with agency priorities.” In some cases, the agency claimed that the canceled research was “based on gender identity,” resulting in “unscientific” outcomes that disregarded “biological reality.”

Other termination letters indicated that researchers erred by focusing on “artificial and unscientific categories” primarily driven by vague equity objectives.

These funding cuts come after a decade of increased federal support for LGBTQ research, encouraged by the NIH during the Obama administration, which welcomed grant proposals that focused on sexual and gender minorities.

Supporters of President Trump contend that much of this research is tainted by ideological bias.

“There was a trend of scientific malpractice to align conclusions with preconceived notions,” stated Roger Severino from the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank influential in shaping Trump administration policies.

“It was founded on the erroneous belief that biology is almost irrelevant, alongside the political agenda that sought to normalize the idea of changing one’s sex.”

Researchers stated that canceling research on a broad range of diseases affecting sexual and gender minorities has effectively created a perception of a hierarchy among patients, deeming some as less valuable.

“Certain segments of the U.S. population should not be considered inferior as subjects of research,” remarked Simon Rosser, a professor at the University of Minnesota, whose lab focused on cancer in LGBTQ individuals before significant funding was withdrawn.

“This is a clear example of bias,” he emphasized. “It’s a form of prejudice in scientific research.”

The cancellation of these projects is a striking indication of the widespread dismantling of the research framework that has supported medical study in the United States for the past 80 years.

In addition to halting studies, federal officials have delayed grant payments, postponed review meetings, and expanded new grant awards.

Recently, Trump proposed slashing the NIH budget from approximately $48 billion to $27 billion, citing part of a broader agenda perceived as aimed at combating “radical gender ideology.”

The legality of these terminations remains uncertain. Two separate lawsuits challenge the broad cancellation of grants, with a group of researchers and others arguing that the Trump administration lacked a lawful basis for these cuts in 16 states.

The White House and the Department of Health and Human Services have not provided comments upon request.

Health department spokesperson Andrew Nixon stated to the Daily Signal, a conservative outlet, last month that the shifts which “alleviate politicized gender and identity studies” were “in line with the president’s executive order.”

In a statement, the NIH commented: “NIH is taking steps to terminate research funding that does not align with NIH and HHS priorities. We are committed to reinstating traditions that support evidence-based science.”

Lost funding has hindered critical studies on antibiotic resistance, undiagnosed autism among sexual minorities, and specific cancers that disproportionately affect these groups. The funding cuts have resulted in layoffs at several LGBTQ-focused laboratories that were poised for expansion.

Historically, the NIH has reserved grant cancellations for rare instances of research misconduct or potential participant harm. Scientists now argue that the recent cuts are doing more harm than protection for research participants.

They indicated the cessation of clinical trials where federal funding is short, affecting the care of volunteer participants.

“We are halting initiatives that prevent suicide and sexual violence,” remarked Katie Edwards, a professor at the University of Michigan, whose funding for various clinical trials involving LGBTQ individuals has been canceled.

The HIV studies have been particularly severely impacted.

The NIH has terminated major grants to the Adolescent Medical Exam Network for HIV/AIDS interventions, a program that established precursors for using medication therapy in adolescents to prevent infections.

The regimen known as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is recognized as a promising strategy to reduce HIV transmission in youth.

The funding reductions threaten to amplify HIV transmission among young sexual minority men using stimulants as they aim to monitor a continuous trial of products that prevent both HIV and unplanned pregnancies, alongside sexual health counseling and behavioral therapy.

With the termination of numerous other HIV studies, these cuts are undermining Trump’s aims established during his prior term to eradicate the national HIV epidemic within a decade, according to scientists.

The NIH has also halted efforts relating to other sexually transmitted infections.

Dr. Matthew Spinelli, an infectious disease researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, was in the midst of clinical trials on common antibiotics for post-exposure prophylaxis aimed at preventing syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia infections.

The trial involved a randomized study assigning participants to different antibiotic regimens to assess metabolism.

He hoped that the findings would provide valuable insights into the efficacy of treatments for women. He previously advocated for this research.

However, health officials ceased funding for the March study, objecting to research based on “gender identity.” Consequently, Dr. Spinelli could not apply federal funds to monitor participants already on antibiotics.

Moreover, he risked wasting thousands of doses of antibiotics acquired using taxpayer money. Dr. Spinelli warned that discontinuing efforts against infections like syphilis and HIV will allow new outbreaks to arise.

“The HIV epidemic is poised to surge again as a direct result of these actions,” Dr. Spinelli stated. “This is catastrophic for the communities affected.”

Despite a recent focus on the negative consequences of medical transition, federal officials have canceled several studies examining the potential risks of hormone therapies. These projects aimed to understand whether such treatments could elevate the chances of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, brain development issues, or HIV.

Other canceled grants sought to address mental health challenges in transgender individuals. Transgender youth, who currently represent around 3% of high school students, report significantly higher instances of persistent grief and suicide attempts.

For Dr. Edwards at the University of Michigan, funding has been halted for one of her six canceled studies examining how depression and self-harm among transgender teens can be mitigated.

Another study aimed at promoting supportive care for LGBTQ youth and reducing dating violence and alcohol consumption among these individuals.

The NIH categorizes studies strictly by specific illnesses, complicating efforts for agencies to estimate budgets for LGBTQ health research. Nonetheless, a report from March suggested that such studies accounted for less than 1% of the NIH’s portfolio over a decade.

The Times sought to quantify the scale of funding cuts in LGBTQ medical research by assessing grant titles. Research summaries were available for each of the 669 grants the Trump administration identified as fully or partially canceled in early May.

The review included studies designed to recruit participants from sexual and gender minorities, extending beyond grants strictly tied to LGBTQ issues and highlighting significant health disparities.

Grants related to diseases outside of the LGBTQ scope were excluded from this assessment.

The Times focused solely on NIH research grants but acknowledged that the Trump administration also discontinued LGBTQ programs elsewhere in the federal health system, including proposals to eliminate specialized suicide hotlines for LGBTQ youth.

The reduction in funding has hollowed out fields that not only flourished over the past decade but also encompassed a variety of health threats beyond HIV.

Researchers claim young academics have lost their positions in LGBTQ-related research and are erasing traces of their work from online profiles.

Brittany Charlton, a professor at Harvard School of Public Health, had five grants canceled, including one examining the notable uptick in stillbirth rates among LGBTQ women.

Discontinuing research into health threats impacting gender and sexual minorities ultimately affects the broader population, she stated. “When those around you become ill, it impacts you too, even if you believe it doesn’t,” she concluded.

Irena Fan contributed reporting.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Beware: ‘Hello Mom!’ WhatsApp Scam Targeting Parents and Friends

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Hi Mom,” the opening message states. “I’ve misplaced my phone.” It unfolds into a distressing narrative: somehow, the sender has also been locked out of their bank account.

Fortunately, friends usually have access to phones. It was through their device that the message was revealed. Alternatively, they might request assistance with rent or direct payment to their landlord or for any urgent bills that have surfaced.

Messages can arrive via WhatsApp or text. Scammers don’t always impersonate children; they might pose as friends or even parents.

Data from Santander indicates that among bank customers, the impersonation of a son is the most effective scam, followed by a daughter, then a mother.

Chris Ainsley, the head of fraud risk management at the bank, notes that fraud is progressing at “broken speeds.” He remarks, “AI voice impersonation technology is now being utilized to create audio messages for WhatsApp and SMS, enhancing the realism of fraud.”

What does fraud look like?

WhatsApp ‘hi mum’ text scam screenshot. Photo: Santander

A seemingly friendly message from someone claiming to be close to you often comes from unknown numbers. If you don’t reply, they may persist before giving up. If you do respond, the scammer will typically engage in conversation but often with vague details.

They will quickly claim to need urgent funds for something and pressure you to act swiftly.

The “sender” may allege that their regular bank account has problems, instructing you to send money to an unfamiliar account.

WhatsApp ‘hi mum’ text scam screenshot. Photo: Santander

What the message asks for

money. They’ll claim they urgently need cash to buy a new phone or for living expenses.

WhatsApp ‘hi mum’ text scam screenshot Photo: Santander

The bank details they provide will likely belong to someone else. They will claim it belongs to “friends” or someone they owe, and the amount requested is usually not a round figure. These accounts belong to scammers or third parties used as money mules.

What to do

If you suspect that a loved one is in actual trouble, verify the situation. Reach out using their usual number. Don’t be alarmed if they don’t reply immediately.

You can ask questions that only they would know the answers to.

To protect yourself against future scams, consider establishing a family password that can be requested to confirm the sender’s identity.

WhatsApp ‘hi mum’ text scam screenshot Photo: Santander

If you have sent money, contact your bank right away to see if you can halt the transactions.

You can report suspicious WhatsApp messages through the app. Simply select the message and choose to report it.

Fraudulent texts can be forwarded to 7726 to report them to your telecommunications provider.

You can also report scams to Action Fraud.

Whenever prompted to transfer funds, always be truthful about the situation to ensure the sender’s legitimacy.

Source: www.theguardian.com

This Changes Everything for Women Going Through Perimenopause.

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life when the ovaries cease hormone production, but the journey toward this pivotal moment can span several years. This phase is known as perimenopause.

Typically, women experience menopause around age 51, with many starting to notice perimenopausal symptoms in their mid-40s. Symptoms can differ greatly from one individual to another. While hot flashes and irregular periods are frequently highlighted as indicators, not everyone experiences these signs.

Moreover, within the same individual, symptoms can vary in type, frequency, and intensity.

More than 75% of women report experiencing a range of symptoms, with about 25% indicating their symptoms significantly affecting their quality of life. Common complaints include sleep disturbances, anxiety, and weight gain.

Nevertheless, these symptoms are often attributed to other medical conditions based on expert assessments.

Symptoms and Treatment

Insomnia can be one of the earliest signs, sometimes emerging in a woman’s late 30s or early 40s. Research indicates that up to 60% of women over 40 experience insomnia.

Other symptoms may encompass mood fluctuations, leading to feelings of anger, irritability, sadness, and depression.

In addition, individuals may face challenges such as brain fog, memory issues, difficulty concentrating, joint and muscle pain, vaginal dryness, diminished sexual desire, and discomfort during intercourse.

It’s important to note that many women may delay seeking medical advice due to embarrassment or the desire not to “make a fuss.” However, consulting a healthcare provider is crucial since there are currently no menopause tests for women over 45.

Tracking specific symptoms and their timing is advisable. Sharing this information with your doctor can lead to a better understanding of your experience and help identify the most suitable treatment options.

Research supports the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) based on guidelines from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence, particularly for alleviating hot flashes and night sweats.

HRT may also enhance sleep quality and alleviate some negative cognitive symptoms. Besides, studies indicate that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist in managing vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, along with helping regulate mood and sleep patterns.

Additional research has shown that HRT can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporotic fractures later in life.

HRT comprises various medications, including estrogen, combinations of estrogen and progestogen (another female hormone), and testosterone, with administration options like patches or gels.

The choice of HRT type and dosage depends on the condition being treated, individual risk factors, and personal preferences. There is no specific cut-off age for starting HRT, as its benefits may outweigh the perceived risks.

Read more:

New Research

Women undergoing HRT may also see a reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer and type 2 diabetes. Additional studies suggest that initiating estrogens as part of HRT early during menopause might further decrease coronary artery disease risk and conditions like heart disease and Alzheimer’s.

The cardiovascular benefits, including lower mortality rates, are noted primarily for women who begin HRT in their 50s, as opposed to those starting after 60. However, HRT is not recommended solely for the purpose of preventing cardiovascular diseases or dementia.

When using HRT tablets, estrogen-only formulations are usually given without progestogen protection, which increase thromboembolic risks (like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) for certain HRT types and can elevate uterine cancer risk.

Osteoporosis generally affects older adults and postmenopausal women. HRT can help treat it. – Image credits: Science Photo Library

Concerns regarding breast cancer prevalence are complex, influenced by historical clinical trial data and individual family history, as well as lifestyle factors like alcohol use and obesity.

This variability impacts the clinical relevance of existing data for individuals.

Current findings indicate that estrogen-only HRT has minimal or no association with breast cancer risk, while combined HRT might correlate with an increased risk of 3-4 cases per 1,000 women.

Topical estrogen HRT has proven highly effective in managing and preventing vaginal and vulvar dryness, pain, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Additively, testosterone treatments combined with estrogens may benefit some women experiencing low sexual desire.

However, a review of current trials does not demonstrate improvements in cognitive function, bone density, body composition, muscle strength, or mental health regarding testosterone treatment.

Moreover, some women, particularly those with a breast cancer history, may opt against HRT.

Historically, alternative treatments for perimenopausal symptoms focused on antidepressants and clonidine, but these have shown limited effectiveness and significant side effects. Recently, Fezolinetant, a non-hormonal medication, has been approved to assist with managing vasomotor symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medication, changes in lifestyle—such as improved sleep, increased physical activity, and better nutrition—can provide substantial benefits without associated risks.

Prioritizing sleep can be an ideal starting point. Quality rest allows for better focus on increasing activity and enhancing diet.

Implementing good sleep hygiene practices, including avoiding screens before bedtime, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and using CBT techniques, has been shown to improve insomnia and other sleep disorders for women experiencing menopause.

Engaging in regular physical activity is also advantageous, particularly exercises that build and preserve muscle and bone density, like strength training. This can help prevent osteoporosis, enhance flexibility, and reduce insulin resistance.

Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, or cycling can also enhance long-term cardiovascular and brain health. Regardless of life stage, a balanced diet rich in whole foods and limited ultra-processed items is beneficial.

While navigating menopause can be challenging, various proven strategies can facilitate a smoother transition.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

This Cute Bopping Sea Lion Likely Has Better Rhythm Than You!

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies have revealed that sea lions, specifically one named Ronan, possess a timing ability that surpasses many humans when it comes to music.

Ronan gained attention over a decade ago when she astonished researchers. Now, new findings indicate her sense of rhythm has not only remained stable but has actually improved.

At her most practiced tempo, she consistently stays within 15 milliseconds of the beat. For perspective, a typical blink occurs roughly every 150 milliseconds.

“Compared to other non-human animals, Ronan shows remarkable accuracy and consistency,” stated Professor Peter Cook, the lead author of the study and comparative neuroscientist at New College, Florida, in BBC Science Focus.

“However, Ronan’s accuracy and consistency have significantly improved over time.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29arkafwjia

Cook and his team initially trained Ronan to recognize rhythms in 2012, when she was just three years old. At that point, she was already a record-holding non-human beatkeeper.

Yet, some scientists were skeptical about whether her performance was on par with adult humans. Ronan demonstrated more variability between beats and tended to drift ahead at faster tempos while lagging behind at slower ones—contrary to humans who typically hit just before the beat.

“Most rhythm studies focus on adults who have years of informal rhythmic experience—like dancing or tapping their feet,” Cook explained.

“We evaluated Ronan when she was essentially a juvenile… Now that she’s a mature adult sea lion, how does she compare to humans?”

To explore this, the team asked undergraduate students from the University of California, Santa Cruz, to mimic Ronan’s head bobbing using large, fluid arm movements. Their movements were then compared to Ronan’s performance at three different tempos.

Surprisingly, she outperformed the students in both consistency and accuracy, ranking in the 99th percentile of a model simulating 10,000 individuals performing the same task.

The findings challenge the long-held belief that precise rhythmic synchronization relies on vocal learning, a trait shared by humans and certain birds, but not sea lions.

Additionally, the research implies that rhythmic perception may be deeply embedded in fundamental brain timing mechanisms.

“Rhythms create patterns in time, and the natural world is filled with such patterns,” Cook stated.

“Recognizing these patterns is advantageous for animals as it allows them to anticipate what follows and adjust their actions accordingly.”

“For instance, they can modify their swimming strokes to sync with wave patterns, reach for moving branches while trees shake, or arrange their vocal outputs to align or overlap with those of other animals.”

(L-R) co-authors Andrew Rouse, Peter Cook, Carson Hood, and California Sea Lion – Colleen Reichmut. NMFS 23554

Ronan’s rhythmic skills may open doors for further research. The team is currently examining whether she can track more complex and irregular patterns.

They are also employing game-based training to assess whether Ronan is a unique case or the beginning of something more widespread.

Ultimately, the question remains: will we see a sea lion performing live alongside a musician on stage?

“I believe we can teach a sea lion to maintain a basic 4/4 beat,” Cook remarked. “When we tested her with live music, Ronan adapted her rhythm dynamically like a band, even with tempo shifts.”

However, before anyone rushes to sign a record deal with Ronan, there’s a minor hurdle: “The sea lion only has one ‘hand’,” Cook noted. “And their flipper control isn’t quite suited for the precise movements required for playing hi-hats or bass drums.”

That said, Cook expressed enthusiasm about the possibility, adding, “It’s definitely something we want to explore, though I suspect the fish might need regular breaks.”

About Our Experts

Peter Cook is an associate professor of marine mammal science at New College, Florida. His research focuses on animal cognition and comparative neuroscience across various species. Cook is particularly interested in discovering new and ecologically effective methods for studying brain and behavior beyond traditional laboratory settings.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Turkmenistan’s “Gate of Hell” Crater: Burning for 40 Years Without Explanation

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fires typically consume fuel over hours, days, or even weeks. However, certain underground fossil fuel deposits can sustain a blaze for decades.

The gas crater in Darvaza, famously known as the “Gate of Hell,” has been burning for a remarkable 40 years within a 60-meter-wide (196 feet) pit located in Turkmenistan’s Karakham Desert.

The crater’s origin is a topic of debate. Some claim it resulted from an unauthorized Soviet gas drilling operation in the 1970s that inadvertently trapped an underground pocket of natural gas; others believe it was formed naturally in the 1960s.

Regardless of its origins, geologists detected methane leaking from the crater and attempted to ignite the gas to prevent environmental disasters. They expected it to extinguish within weeks, yet it has continued to burn for decades.

The Darvaza gas Crater is a 60m (196 feet) pit in the Karakham Desert in Turkmenistan. – Photo Credit: Getty Images

This crater sits atop extensive oil and gas fields that traverse Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, likely linked to a vast underground reservoir of methane, which fuels the fire almost indefinitely.

In 2013, Canadian explorer George Crunis embarked on an expedition to study the crater. Dressed in a heat-resistant suit, he descended to the crater’s depths to collect soil samples and found simple organisms capable of surviving in the extreme conditions at the bottom.

While the Gate of Hell may be the most famous fire, it is not the oldest. Underground coal seams can sustain fires for centuries.

One coal fire beneath Mount Wingen in Australia has been ablaze for over 5,000 years. Such fires might continue indefinitely until the vast underground fuel supply is depleted.

This article addresses the question posed by Dennis McCann of Derby: “What are the Gates of Hell, and why do they keep burning?”

Please email us your questions at Question@sciencefocus.com or message us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (remember to include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate Fun fact and discover more amazing science pages.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Archaeologists Uncover Unusual Rectal Preservation Techniques Used on Mummies

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent archaeological findings indicate that well-preserved mummies were air-dried using long chips, twigs, cloth, and zinc chloride inserted into the rectum.

The 280-year-old remains belong to an Austrian priest and represent the first documented case of such an unusual but effective preservation method.

“The remarkably preserved mummy found in the Church District of St. Thomas am Brassenstein is that of Franz Zaber Sidler von Rosenage, a local pastor who passed away in 1746,” said Professor Andreas Nellich, a pathologist from Ludwig Maximilians University, Germany, involved in the Frontiers of Medicine study.

“Our investigation revealed that excellent preservation was achieved by packing the abdomen with wood chips, twigs, and dough, coupled with zinc chloride for internal desiccation.”

The mummy’s body walls were entirely unharmed, though more decay was evident on the head and legs. – Credit: Andreas Nellic

The upper body of the mummy remained largely intact, while significant collapse was observed in the head and lower body.

Nerlich, along with a global team of researchers, conducted thorough analyses, including computed tomography scans (using X-rays and computers to construct detailed body images), radiocarbon dating, and chemical assessments.

These studies confirmed Sidler’s identity, indicating he died between 1734 and 1780 at the age of 35-45.

Further discoveries of unique fabric tissues from materials found in the mummy’s abdominal cavity. Left: A piece of cotton with an intricate floral pattern. Right: A silk fabric fragment. – Credit: Andreas Nellic

In their efforts, scientists removed preservatives from Sidler’s body, uncovering that the abdominal and pelvic cavities were filled through the rectum with family and spruce chips, along with linen, hemp, and flax fabrics.

These materials were readily available in the small Austrian village where Sidler lived. Additionally, silk and embroidered linen were discovered within his remains, suggesting that the stuffing absorbed much of his abdominal fluids.

Toxicological examinations indicated that zinc chloride, a potent drying agent, was used to maintain the body’s condition.

Moreover, researchers found a small glass bead, likely lost within Sidler during the preservation process.

Left: The removal of some foreign materials from the dorsal abdominal wall revealed a mix of white fabric, plant matter, and brownish amorphous tissue residues. Right: A round object found in the left pelvis had a small hole with raised lips. – Credit: Andreas Nellic

Nerlich stated that the extent of rectal preservative use among mummies remains unknown, and other well-preserved bodies may have previously gone unreported.

The reasons behind Sidler’s preservation method remain unclear, though Nellich suggested:

“It’s possible the pastor was intended for transportation to his home monastery, but for reasons unknown, that plan may have failed.”

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Voters Greenlight Incorporation of SpaceX Hub as Texas Starbase

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Citizens of the South Texas region, long associated with SpaceX, Elon Musk’s rocket company, voted on Saturday to officially create a new city named Starbase, achieving one of Musk’s enduring aspirations.

When voting ended at 7 PM, 173 out of 177 votes were effectively in favor of incorporating the city of Starbase, according to Cameron County, which oversaw the election.

Election manager Remi Garza noted that there are 283 eligible voters, and while around 40 votes were counted, the early voting turnout exceeded expectations.

The locality, commonly referred to as Boca Chica by residents, spans approximately 1.5 square miles and extends to the Mexican border.

SpaceX broke ground in the area back in 2014, and it has since become the central hub and launch site for the company, with numerous employees residing there.

On his platform X, Musk has referred to the area as Starbase numerous times over the past four years.

“I literally live in a ~$20,000 home at Bocachica/Starbase that I rent from SpaceX,” Musk stated in a tweet from June 2021. “That’s pretty awesome.”

Residents surrounding the company’s offices and launch sites submitted a petition in December to formally establish Starbase, Texas, seeking official recognition.

The petition outlined a community comprising approximately 500 residents, including at least 219 adults and over 100 children. Most of the residents are tenants and work at SpaceX, according to the petition.

Local governments have the authority to create their own police and fire departments and establish ordinances, though they are not mandated to do so.

“Cities are not legally required to do much,” remarked Austin attorney Alain Bojörquez, who assists Texans in the municipal incorporation process.

One of the key issues is road maintenance, which will no longer fall under county jurisdiction. However, as a municipality, Starbase will be eligible for state and federal grants, enjoy certain legal protections, and potentially have the authority to condemn property, Bojorquez noted.

David Goodman Contributions reported.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Elon Musk’s SpaceX Establishes New City in Texas

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Brownsville, Texas – A new city has emerged in Texas, named Starbase.

On Saturday, voters approved a measure to create a new city in South Texas, focusing on Elon Musk’s SpaceX operations. The initiative secured significant backing, facilitating the establishment of a city composed primarily of SpaceX employees and affiliates.

The initial tally showed 173 votes in favor of the establishment, with only four against. The measure required a minimum of 143 votes to succeed.

“It is officially statistically impossible for this measure to fail,” stated Cameron County election manager Remi Garza on Saturday evening. “Cameron County has a new city.”

Following the vote, the county commissioner will review the results within two weeks, according to Garza. A judge will officially declare the election result and the establishment of the new city.

The area designated as Starbase spans approximately 1½ square miles at the southernmost part of Texas, situated along the coast and bordered by Mexico. This is where SpaceX’s headquarters is located, responsible for the production of boosters, engines, and large spacecraft during test launches.

This vote outcome was a crucial win for Musk, who has faced significant criticism in recent months due to his connections with former President Donald Trump’s administration. Musk held the position of head of the Office of Government Efficiency (DOGE), managing widespread layoffs and budget cuts across federal agencies.

In response to his actions, protests erupted nationwide, coinciding with a decline in profits for his electric car company, Tesla.

SpaceX currently operates a company town First published in 2021.

Saturday’s election also marked the appointment of Starbase’s first mayor, Bobby Pedden, alongside two additional mayors, Jordan Bass and Jenna Petruzelka. All three candidates ran unopposed and are SpaceX employees.

County election records revealed that 283 residents were eligible to vote in the Cameron County special election on Saturday. Eligibility was determined based on whether the residents’ homes fell within the designated boundaries of the new city.

While neither SpaceX nor Musk has disclosed the intent behind incorporating the city into their operations, speculation suggests that it could streamline local government processes, potentially reducing bureaucracy and regulations surrounding SpaceX’s testing and rocket launches.

Currently, SpaceX must acquire permission from Cameron County authorities to close roads and limit public access to Bocachica Beach and Bocachica State Parks for safety during rocket launches.

Ongoing highway closures have led to legal challenges against SpaceX, inciting protests from local residents and advocacy groups, including the Carrizo Comecrudo Tribe in Texas, the South Texas Environmental Justice Network, and Border Workers United. As reported by CNBC.

A sign posted outside the SpaceX “Hub.”
Marissa Parra / NBC News

With SpaceX now operating within the newly formed Starbase, future developments might occur, although resistance could be expected.

“Now, that authority resides solely in Cameron County and my office, and we consider ourselves a strong collaborator and partner with SpaceX, as demonstrated by our efforts to ensure public access to Bocachica Beach,” Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino explained to NBC News.

Trevino asserted that there’s no need for changes to current procedures.

“If it’s not broken, there’s no need to fix it,” he noted.

Dennis Chou

Denise Chow is a science and space reporter for NBC News.

Marissa Para

Marissa Para is a national correspondent for NBC News based in Miami, Florida.

Carla Kakouris-Solarana I contributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

How Your Name Influences the Shape of Your Face Over Time

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Suggestions for parents struggling to choose a name for their little one. Because, new research indicates that a name could influence your facial appearance.

The recent study was inspired by the “face-name matching effect.” This phenomenon highlights how well individuals can match a person’s face to their name from a list of options.

This opens up various possibilities: parents may observe their baby’s face and intuitively select a name that aligns with its appearance. Alternatively, our names might subtly influence how we look, making them recognizable to others.

National statistics show that Olivia and Noah remain the most popular baby names in both the US and the UK. – Photo credit: Getty

A team of researchers from Israel explored these two ideas through a series of studies conducted in 2024.

In one study, participants matched the names of adults and children to their corresponding faces. Results showed participants could name adults accurately but struggled with children.

This implies that our identities evolve over time, leading us to resemble the names we are given at birth.

Another study employed machine learning to compare facial similarities among individuals sharing the same name versus those who do not.

Findings indicated that adults with identical names exhibited increased facial similarities, unlike children. This supports the theory that we gradually align with our names as we age.

But do our names truly shape our facial features? Researchers suggest that individuals often adopt stereotypes associated with their names, influencing their behavior and, consequently, their appearances over the years.

For instance, a boy named “Tyler,” which carries a masculine connotation in certain cultures, might internalize those traits, participate in sports, and develop a confident demeanor, gradually shaping a more athletic appearance.

Conversely, negative stereotypes linked to names can adversely affect experiences. For example, if a teacher associates a name with misbehavior, it may lead to biased treatment of the child.

These insights align with previous research indicating that names markedly influence personal experiences.

For example, individuals with less common names (like Kevin and Alexander; a 2011 German study) often struggle in online dating. Similarly, names like Cindy and Chantal may yield less help from strangers compared to more common names like Sophie and Marie.

Some studies even suggest that individuals with unique names may be more likely to pursue unconventional careers.

This article addresses the question posed by Luke Gillespie of Sunderland: “Does your name affect your physical appearance?”

Please email us to submit your questions at Question@sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, Twitter or Instagram Page (don’t forget to include your name and location).

Check out our ultimate Fun Facts and more amazing science pages.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Uncover New Varieties of Crystals

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While researching crystal formation, scientists at New York University discovered a unique rod-shaped crystal previously unrecognized.

Zangenite. Image credit: Shihao Zang/Nyu.

Crystals are solid substances composed of particles arranged in repeating patterns.

This self-organization process—often described by researchers as “regulating order from chaos”—was traditionally believed to follow a predictable, classical growth model.

However, they are discovering that crystals can grow through more intricate pathways rather than simply forming building blocks step by step.

To investigate crystal formation, some researchers utilize crystals consisting of small spherical particles known as colloidal particles. These particles are significantly larger than the atoms in other types of crystals.

“Studying colloidal particles allows us to observe the crystallization process at the level of individual particles, which is challenging for atoms due to their small size and rapid movement,” explained Stefano Sacanna, a professor at New York University.

“With colloids, we can visually analyze the shape of the crystal under a microscope.”

To gain insight into how colloidal crystals form, Professor Sacanna and his team conducted experiments observing the behavior of charged colloidal particles under various growth conditions as they transitioned from a salty suspension into a fully developed crystal.

They also conducted thousands of computer simulations to model the growth of the crystals and to explain their experimental observations.

The researchers found that colloidal crystals form through a two-stage process: the initial amorphous mass of particles condenses, followed by a transformation into an ordered crystal structure, resulting in a diverse range of crystal types and shapes.

During the experiments, New York University PhD student Shihao Zan encountered a rod-shaped crystal that he could not identify.

While it appeared similar to a previously discovered crystal, detailed examinations revealed differences in the grain combinations and the presence of a hollow channel at the tips of the crystal.

He compared the unknown structures with over 1,000 crystals found in nature but found no match.

By utilizing computer modeling, the researchers were able to simulate the exact crystals, enabling them to study the elongated, hollow shapes more closely.

“This was somewhat perplexing, as crystals are typically dense; however, this one featured empty channels running throughout its length,” remarked Dr. Glenn Hocky from New York University.

“The combined effects of this experiment and simulation led me to realize that this crystal structure had never been documented before,” added Professor Sacanna.

They named the newly identified crystal l₃s₄ and informally referred to it as “Zangerite” during a lab meeting, reflecting its composition as per Zang’s discovery.

“We study colloidal crystals to replicate the real-world scenarios of atomic crystals, but we never anticipated discovering crystals that wouldn’t resemble those found in nature,” stated Zan.

The discovery of Zangenite holds potential for exploring applications related to hollow low-density crystals and may lead to the identification of more new crystals.

“The channels within Zangenite resemble characteristics found in other materials and may aid in filtering or enclosing internal contents,” Dr. Hocky noted.

“We once thought it was uncommon to find new crystal structures, but we may now be on the verge of discovering additional, yet uncharacterized, structures,” Professor Sacanna added.

A paper detailing this study was published in the journal Nature Communications.

____

S. Zan et al. 2025. Direct observation and control of nonclassical crystallization pathways in binary colloid systems. Nat Commun 16, 3645; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-58959-0

Source: www.sci.news

Seven Years of Research Uncover Fresh Perspectives on Consciousness

Posted on May 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A diverse group of neuroscientists evaluated two rival theories of consciousness: Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and Global Neuron Workspace Theory (GNWT). IIT posits that consciousness arises when information within a system is intricately connected and unified, provided it is consciously recognized and functions as a cohesive entity. In contrast, GNWT proposes that a network of brain regions emphasizes significant information, bringing it to the forefront of our awareness and broadly sharing it as it enters consciousness, thereby forming a conscious experience.

Various theories elucidate how subjective experiences emerge from neural activity. While these theories have independent support, they have not been directly compared. Ferrante et al. We present an open science adversarial collaboration that juxtaposes Integrated Information Theory (IIT) with Global Neuron Workspace Theory (GNWT) through a theoretical Chinese consortium. Image credit: NASA/ESA/JPL-CALTECH/STSCI/SCI.NEWS.

Both philosophers and scientists have engaged in the pursuit of understanding the subjective aspects of consciousness (like experiencing pain or seeing vivid rainbows) and their connection to brain’s physical processes.

This endeavor has led to the simultaneous development of various consciousness theories, offering conflicting interpretations of the neural foundations of consciousness.

Moreover, empirical support for any given theory often hinges on methodological choices, pointing to potential confirmation bias in testing these theories.

A convergence of consciousness theories into a broadly accepted neuroscience framework could have profound medical, social, and ethical repercussions.

To facilitate this aim, the authors examined both IIT and GNWT through expansive open science adversarial collaborations designed to foster progress in consciousness research based on constructive disagreements.

“IIT proposes that consciousness results from the cooperation of various brain regions, integrating information much like a cohesive team effort,” the researchers noted.

“It arises from how these regions are interconnected and how they communicate, extending beyond just individual brain parts.”

“However, this research did not uncover sufficient sustained connections in the brain’s posterior areas to substantiate this notion.”

“The GNWT posits that consciousness is localized in the brain’s frontal regions, but this study also found inadequate evidence to support this idea,” they added.

This study included 256 participants, marking a significant milestone for this kind of experimentation.

Researchers displayed various visual stimuli and monitored the brain’s activity while participants viewed these stimuli using three common neuroimaging methods that track blood flow and electrical/magnetic activity.

“Our findings indicate a functional link between neurons in the early visual areas and those in the frontal regions, helping illuminate how perceptions are intertwined with thoughts,” they remarked.

“These results underscore the prefrontal cortex’s significance in consciousness, suggesting that while it plays a vital role in reasoning and planning, consciousness itself may be tied to sensory processing and perception.”

“In essence, intelligence pertains to actions taken, while consciousness refers to mere existence.”

“This discovery could reshape our understanding of consciousness and inform issues related to loss of consciousness, such as in comas and nutrition.”

Understanding the origins of consciousness could aid in identifying “secret awareness” in patients who are severely injured yet unresponsive.

“It became evident that no theory could definitively refute the other,” commented Professor Anil Seth from the University of Sussex.

“The theories pursue fundamentally different objectives in their assumptions and explanations, and the available experimental methods are too coarse to allow one theory to conclusively prevail over the other.”

“Regardless, the findings from this collaboration remain invaluable. There’s a wealth of insights to gain about both theories, along with new understandings of when and where visual experiences can be discerned in the brain.”

Survey results this week will be featured in the journal Nature.

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O. Ferrante et al. (Cogged the consortium). An antagonistic examination of global neuronal workspace and integrated information theory. Nature Released on April 30th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-0888-1

Source: www.sci.news

Research: Multiple Pterosaur Groups Became Global 160 Million Years Ago

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Pterosaurs often glide above dinosaurs, but recent analysis of fossilized footprints indicates that some of these flying reptiles were equally adept at traversing the ground.

Terrestrial migration and tracking morphology of vegetative eye type skeletal morphology: (a) Reconstruction of the ctenochasmatoid orbit Ctenochasma elegans walking with ipsilateral gait, where the fore and hind legs on the same side of the body move together. (b) Manual and pedal morphology of Ctenochasma elegans; PES is plant and pentadactyl, while Manus is digital grade, functionally triductyl as the large fourth digit supporting the outer wing is folded during terrestrial movement. (c) Height map of pterosaur manus and PES footprints in the holotype of Ichnotaxon Pteraichnus stokesi that matches Ctenochasma elegans; (d) height maps from the Pterosaur trackway; Pteraichnus ISP. From the Upper Jurassic Casal Formation of Claysac, France. An outline drawing of (e) interpretation Pteraichnus ISP. Scale bar – 20 mm in (c), 200 mm in (d) and (e). Image credit: Smith et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.017.

“We have been diligently working to enhance our understanding of their lives,” stated Robert Smith, a doctoral researcher at the University of Leicester.

“These footprints offer insights into their habitat, movement, behaviors, and activities in ecosystems long gone.”

In this study, Smith and colleagues uncovered three distinct types of pterosaur footprints, each elucidating various lifestyles and behaviors.

Tying these footprints to specific groups presents a valuable new avenue for exploring how these flying reptiles lived, migrated, and adapted over time across different ecosystems.

“At last, 88 years after the initial discovery of Pterosaur tracks, we understand precisely who made them and the methods employed,” remarked Dr. David Unwin, Ph.D., from Leicester.

The most striking finding emerged from a group of pterosaurs known as Neoazdalci. Quetzalcoatlus, one of the largest flying creatures, boasts a wingspan of 10 meters.

Their footprints have been found in both coastal and inland regions worldwide, supporting the notion that these tall creatures not only ruled the skies but also cohabited the same environments as many dinosaur species.

Some of these tracks date back to an asteroid impact event 66 million years ago, alongside the extinction of both pterosaurs and dinosaurs.

Ctenochasmatoids, recognized for their elongated jaws and needle-like teeth, predominantly left tracks in coastal sediments.

These animals likely traversed muddy shores or shallow lagoons, employing specialized feeding techniques to capture small fish and floating prey.

The prevalence of these tracks indicates that these coastal pterosaurs were far more common in these habitats than the infrequent fossil remains suggest.

Another type of footprint was unearthed in rock formations, alongside the fossilized skeleton of the same pterosaur.

The close correlation between footprints and skeletons provides compelling evidence for identifying the print makers.

Known as Dsungaripterids, these pterosaurs featured robust limbs and jaws; the tips of their curved, toothless beaks were designed for grasping prey, while the large, rounded teeth at the rear of the jaw were ideal for crushing shellfish and other resilient foods.

“Footprints are frequently overlooked in Pterosaur studies, yet they yield a wealth of information regarding their behavior, interactions, and environmental relationships,” stated Smyth.

“A comprehensive analysis of the footprints enables us to uncover biological and ecological insights that cannot be obtained elsewhere.”

The team’s paper is published in the journal Current Biology.

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Robert S. Smith et al. Identifying Pterosaur track makers provides important insights into Mesozoic ground invasions. Current Biology Published online May 1, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.017

Source: www.sci.news

15-Year-Old California Sea Lion Trainer Outshines Humans in Rhythm Skills

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent findings from the Institute of Marine Science at the University of California, Santa Cruz indicate that the capability to perceive time is not exclusive to humans.

Ronan is recognized as the most consistent and accurate mammalian beatkeeper in experimental conditions. Image credit: Joel Saltore.

While certain mammals and birds have demonstrated the ability to synchronize their movements to rhythmic cues during laboratory experiments, most vertebrate species show minimal evidence of beat synchronization.

Ronan, a California sea lion (Zalophus californianus), was trained at the age of 3 to move his head in time with a metronome and has maintained this skill into adulthood.

“Despite extensive research involving a wide array of species, no comprehensive scientific agreement exists regarding whether complex stimuli perception, such as music and beat maintenance, is underpinned by unique biological mechanisms,” researchers noted.

“The most comprehensive comparative data set on sensorimotor synchronization actually originates from invertebrates, with certain insects like fireflies and crickets displaying rate-sensitive synchronization with signals pertinent to their species.”

“The precision and tempo range of these insects can rival human performance in synchronized rhythms.”

“However, unlike humans, who are proficient at synchronizing with a range of rhythmic stimuli, including music, invertebrate synchronization tends to be limited to a narrow scope of specific cues.”

“Studies of beat maintenance in non-human vertebrates primarily derive from the Psittacinae subfamily (parrots), yet these often exhibit lower consistency and accuracy compared to humans, making robust beat keeping challenging for other primates,” they added.

“An exceptional case is Ronan, who has been trained to perform continuous head bobbing in sync with metronomic sounds, illustrating the capability to adapt to new tempos and stimuli.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29arkafwjia

In their latest study, Dr. Cook and colleagues examined Ronan’s consistency in timing to snare drum beats at 112, 120, and 128 beats per minute (bpm).

The same beats were then presented to 10 undergraduate students aged 18 to 23.

The team assessed the participants’ timing accuracy using video tracking software, finding that Ronan’s overall timekeeping was less reliable and varied compared to human counterparts.

Ronan’s accuracy improved with tempo; at 128 bpm, his average with a tempo was 129 bpm (±2.94), while human subjects averaged 116.2 bpm (±7.34).

After the experiment, Ronan received toys filled with fish and ice as rewards.

This study examined only one trained sea lion and ten humans, necessitating further research to validate these findings through larger studies.

“The sensorimotor synchronization in sea lions appeared accurate, consistent, and sometimes outperformed that of a typical adult,” the researchers concluded.

“These results challenge the notion of unique neurobiological adaptations for maintaining human beats.”

The study’s findings were published in the journal Scientific Reports on May 1, 2025.

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PF Cook et al. 2025. Sensory motor synchronization in sea lions rivals that of humans. Sci Rep 15, 12125; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-95279-1

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Unveil a Newly Discovered Species of Loveddonton Dinosaur

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The species has been named obelignathus septimanicus. This new addition lived in the European archipelago around 72 million years ago during the Cretaceous period and is classified within the Ornitopod dinosaur family of Iguanodon Island, specifically in the Rabdodidae family.

Reconstructing obelignathus septimanicus in its Late Cretaceous environment, as depicted in the “Grès à Reptiles” layer, with a Dromaeosaurus in the background. Image credit: Edyta Felcyn-Kowalska.

The Rhabdodontids were medium-sized dinosaurs, potentially bipedal herbivores measuring between 2 and 6 meters (6.6 to 20 feet).

These dinosaurs exhibited stocky builds, characterized by thick limbs, short bodies, long tails, and relatively large triangular skulls.

They thrived in the late Cretaceous European archipelago, a vast collection of small islands located in shallow tropical waters.

This family currently comprises fewer than 10 species, distributed across southern France, northern Spain, eastern Austria, western Hungary, and western Romania.

“Rhabdodontids are typically recognized as endemic groups of leaf-eating dinosaurs from the late Cretaceous European archipelago,” stated Ukaszepians and Dr. Daniel Magia from the Institute of Paleontology at the Polish Academy of Sciences.

“At present, eight to nine different species have been identified based on specimens unearthed from eastern Austria, southern France, western Hungary, western Romania, and northern Spain.”

“However, our understanding of the diversity within Rhabdodontidae and their evolutionary relationships remains incomplete.”

Fossils of obelignathus septimanicus were discovered, with a notable tooth located in the Gresèrepilles layer in southern France.

This specimen has been associated with a previously identified species, “Rhabdodon septimanicus”.

“Rhabdodon septimanicus is recognized as a basal species from the lower part of the Maastrichtian in southern France during the Campanian period,” remarked the paleontologist.

“It was classified based on particularly robust dental remains, which have drawn varying taxonomic interpretations.”

“Our analyses, which include multivariate and phylogenetic evaluations, indicate that this species represents a distinct morphological anomaly among European Rhabdodontomorphs, justifying its categorization into a new genus, obelignathus.”

“While further extensive research, especially in-depth osteological studies, is essential to clarify the taxonomic significance of specific European Rhabdomorphs, our findings suggest that several co-existing sympatric species, particularly in southern France and possibly Romania, display greater diversity than is currently acknowledged,” he added.

The team’s research paper was published in the journal Scientific Reports this week.

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Czepiński & D. Madzia. 2025. A study of the diversity and disparity of Rhabdodontid ornithopods from Late Cretaceous European archipelagos. Sci Rep 15, 15209; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-98083-z

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists First Observed Volcanic Eruptions at Deep-Sea Ridges

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Andrew Wozniak, a chemical oceanographer at the University of Delaware, found it difficult to comprehend the scene before him. Dr. Wozniak was stationed at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, nearly 1.6 miles below the surface, aboard Alvin, the research submersible. As far as his eyes could scan, there lay a nearly desolate expanse of jet-black rock.

Just a day prior, this area was alive with the bustling activity around the Tika hydrothermal vent, situated about 1,300 miles west of Costa Rica. The rocky seabed was home to a vibrant ecosystem, teeming with life. Bright crimson-tipped giant tubeworms intertwined with clusters of mussels, encapsulated in a tapestry of thriving organisms. Crustaceans scuttled about, while ethereal white fish glided gracefully in search of their next meal.

Now, however, only a solitary cluster of dead tubeworms remained amid the darkened landscape. The vivid orange glow of molten lava flickered through the rocks, and a fine mist clouded the water.

“My mind was racing to grasp what had transpired,” Dr. Wozniak said. “Where did everything go?”

Then it dawned on him: he and his fellow explorers had observed the aftermath of a volcanic eruption that had obliterated a once-thriving ecosystem beneath a fresh layer of lava.

This marked the first time scientists had directly witnessed a clear eruption along a ridge in the Central Ocean, a volcanic mountain chain stretching approximately 40,000 miles globally. Baseball seams signify the boundaries of tectonic plates that, when separated, can trigger volcanic eruptions, creating new crust and layers of Earth’s structure beneath the ocean. Approximately 80% of Earth’s volcanic activity occurs at the seafloor, predominantly along the mid-ocean ridge. Before this recent observation, only two underwater eruptions had been documented, neither occurring along the mid-ocean ridge, noted Bill Chadwick, a volcanologist from Oregon State University who was not part of the research team.

“This is an incredibly exciting first,” he remarked.

Such observations provide an invaluable opportunity for scientists to explore fundamental processes of our planet: the formation of new seabeds and their dynamic influence on marine chemistry, ecosystems, microbial life, and beyond.

“Experiencing it in real time is an extraordinary gift. I’m truly envious,” said Deborah Kelly, a marine geologist at the University of Washington who did not participate in the research.

Dr. Wozniak and his team set sail on the R/V Atlantis before diving into the Alvin submersible. Their initial mission was to examine the carbon emissions from Tika’s vents, funded by the National Science Foundation. Hydrothermal vents act as planetary piping systems, discharging heated seawater from the seabed and facilitating the transport of heat and chemicals from within the Earth, thus regulating marine chemistry and sustaining a unique community of deep-sea organisms.

Tuesday morning’s dive commenced like any other. Alyssa Wentzel, an undergraduate from the University of Delaware, accompanied Dr. Wozniak in Alvin, sharing her excitement about descending into the ocean’s depths for a 70-minute journey to the seabed. As the lights dimmed, bioluminescent jellyfish and tiny zooplankton danced in the water.

“It felt magical,” she remarked. “It truly leaves you speechless.”

However, as they neared the site, the temperature gradually increased, shrouding the area in a dark haze. The seabed’s usual dull gray and brown tones were replaced with tendrils of glassy rock, an outcome of rapid cooling when lava makes contact with cold water.

As the particles clouded Alvin’s view, Caitlyn Biadshire, a pilot from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, guided the submersible while monitoring the temperature closely, concerned about the safety of the submersible and its crew. Ultimately, the pilot decided a retreat was necessary.

“It was a breathtaking sight,” they reflected. “Everything I observed just days earlier has been wiped away. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been there within hours of the eruption.”

After returning to the ship, the team learned that a sensitive microphone, known as a Hydrophone, was onboard the Atlantis and had recorded a series of low-frequency rumbles and crackling sounds reminiscent of a campfire.

This represented the third known eruption at the Tika Vent since its discovery in the 1980s. For decades, marine geologist Dan Fornari and his colleagues have closely monitored the site, tracking changes in temperature, water chemistry, and other factors. By combining these analyses with models of seafloor diffusion, they predicted an eruption was imminent, forecasting it could happen either earlier this year or in the previous year.

In 1991, they reached Tika shortly after an eruption began. Although it may have still been active, they lacked visual confirmation of the lava. This time, he asserted, there was no doubt about what the Alvin crew witnessed. “This was the closest we’ve ever come to witnessing the onset of an eruption,” he stated.

The team continues its research into volcanic activity. Due to safety considerations, they are now collecting data and capturing images from the Atlantis remotely.

This data aids researchers in unraveling the mysteries of deep-sea volcanism and its significance within marine ecosystems. “It’s all connected to understanding the overall system of Earth and the ocean,” Dr. Fornari stated. “The relationship is both intricate and beautiful.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Two Scientific Organizations Pledge Ongoing Efforts in U.S. Climate Assessments

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Friday, a prominent scientific organization announced its plans to release a pivotal report on climate change for the nation. This endeavor had been sidelined by the Trump administration, which dismissed numerous scientists involved in the effort.

The American Geophysical Union and the American Meteorological Society indicated that authors could opt to publish works initially drafted for evaluation in their respective journals.

Brandon Jones, program director for the National Science Foundation, stated, “It is essential to protect and prepare our community, our neighbors, and our children from the escalating risks associated with climate change. This collaboration opens a vital pathway for researchers to unite and provide the necessary science to address global climate change solutions.”

The National Climate Assessment represents a thorough review of current climate science, examining the impacts of climate change on the nation and outlining potential adaptation and mitigation strategies. Five editions have been published since 2000, with the sixth edition expected to be released in early 2028.

The new initiative will not replace the federal reports required by Congress, according to a statement from the American Geophysical Union and the American Meteorological Association.

The White House has not responded to a request for comment. Following the rejection of the authors of the National Climate Assessment, known as NCA6, the notification they received mentioned that “the scope of the report is currently being reassessed in accordance with the Global Change Research Act of 1990.” This law instituted the US Global Change Research Program in April, subsequently resulting in staff and funding cuts by the administration.

It remains uncertain whether the administration will move forward with a revised assessment, try to bypass Congress and cancel it entirely, or take an alternative approach.

Jason West, an environmental scientist at the University of North Carolina and former lead author on the Air Quality chapter in a past assessment, stated, “This effort cannot substitute for NCA6, which goes through extensive public and government reviews. However, it allows the team of authors who have already started their work the chance to finalize and publish their findings.”

The report’s authors had been preparing a chapter for nearly a year, addressing subjects like climate model updates and urban heat adaptation.

Scientists highlighted the unique breadth, depth, and rigor of national climate assessments, noting that the government’s role in publishing has historically added credibility and reliability to these reports.

Researchers expressed disappointment at the abrupt cancellation of their volunteer positions. For many, the announcement from the Science Association was a positive indication that their work could proceed, just as the authors of the first National Natural Assessment advocated for the publication of their efforts.

Costa Samaras, a civil engineer at Carnegie Mellon University and leader of the Climate Mitigation chapter, remarked via email, “The AGU/AMS initiatives can sustain the momentum of climate science in the wake of recent setbacks. It serves as a reminder that science will persist.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump’s 2026 Budget Suggests $6 Billion Cut to NASA Funding

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Under President Trump’s proposed budget, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration aims to become the nation’s focal point for lunar and Martian exploration, sending astronauts to these celestial bodies.

The Trump administration has suggested an $18.8 billion budget for NASA, a reduction of 24% from the current fiscal year’s funding of $24.8 billion. This plan is part of Trump’s commitment to “plant the flag” on Mars, a promise made during his Congress address last March.

This budget shift aligns with the vision of Elon Musk, who founded SpaceX two decades ago with aspirations to transport settlers to Mars someday.

However, the proposal does not outline how the $1 billion allocation will be utilized or the timeline for sending astronauts to Mars. Musk has indicated that SpaceX intends to launch a new, large spacecraft toward Mars by the latter half of 2026, though it’s still under development.

Janet Petro, NASA administrator, stated, “The proposal includes investments focused on crucial scientific and technological research while advancing exploration of the Moon and Mars.”

The budget cuts will mainly affect NASA’s Robotics and Space Science Mission, including the proposed cancellation of a mission to retrieve Martian rock samples and a climate observation satellite. The Orion crew capsules are set to return astronauts to the Moon post-Artemis III, the first mission to land near the Moon’s South Pole. Additionally, the Gateway, a planned orbital space station around the Moon, will be scrapped.

Casey Drier, director of space policy at the Planetary Association, noted, “The exploration of space is a nonprofit advocating for space exploration. This budget reflects America’s standing as a leader in space, yet we are becoming more introspective.”

The budget plan also suggests an increase in operations at the International Space Station, while proposing the elimination of NASA’s educational initiatives, labeling them as “awakening.” Previous attempts by both President Trump and President Obama to terminate NASA’s educational funding were countered by Congress reinstating the funds.

In aviation, the proposed budget cuts research aimed at minimizing greenhouse gas emissions from aircraft.

The budget further suggests reducing “mission support” by over $1 billion, aiming to save costs through employee workforce cuts, maintenance reduction, construction decreases, and “environmental compliance activities.”

A report from the National Academy last September highlighted that NASA has requested a notable increase in funding for infrastructure improvements.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Rising Legal Challenges for the New “Climate Superfund” Legislation

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Last year, Vermont achieved a historic milestone by enacting the nation’s first climate superfund law, aimed at enabling the recovery of funds from fossil fuel companies to manage the escalating expenses associated with climate change.

This depends, however, on whether we can prevail against the mounting legal challenges.

Recently, the Department of Justice initiated a federal lawsuit, with Vermont being one of the states, alongside New York, to adopt the Climate Superfund Act. The lawsuit argues the measure is “a bold effort to seize federal authority” and forces others to subsidize state infrastructure expenditures.

Shortly after, West Virginia Attorney General John B. McCauskey announced he was spearheading another challenge against Vermont’s law, claiming it “encroaches upon American coal, oil, and natural gas producers.”

McCauskey had previously filed a similar lawsuit against New York, seeking $75 billion from oil and gas companies over the next 25 years. On Thursday, he warned that the Vermont version could be “even more perilous” as it lacks a financial cap.

He, along with 23 other attorneys, is joining the lawsuit filed late last year by the American Petroleum Research Institute, an affiliate of the US Chamber of Commerce and the Federal Court of Vermont.

West Virginia is a significant source of natural gas and coal, and the complaint asserts that fossil fuel companies operate legally. It argues that “Vermont enjoys affordable and reliable fuels while simultaneously punishing those who produce such energy.”

The Climate Superfund Act is patterned after the federal Superfund program, which aims to clean up hazardous waste sites. This program has been operational for decades, ensuring that businesses contributing to contamination help finance the cleanup.

The new climate superfund law stems from the understanding that the burning of fossil fuels—which generates carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases—is a primary driver of climate change. Consequently, the law permits states to pursue funding from fossil fuel producers to mitigate the costs of global warming. Similar legislative initiatives are gaining traction in states like California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.

Patrick Derprue, an expert in environmental law in Vermont, characterized the Justice Department’s case as “a display of virtue signaling” and anticipates a dismissal. He expects the state will argue that the Chamber of Commerce’s lawsuit is premature, given that officials are still determining how the law will be applied and are not directly implicated.

Julie Moore, the secretary of the Vermont Natural Resources Agency, indicated her involvement in both filings and stated her office is reviewing the specifics. She noted that the Justice Department’s actions were “not unforeseen” in light of President Trump’s April 8 executive order, which aims to “protect America’s energy from federal overreach.”

This order explicitly mentions the new laws in Vermont and New York, deeming them threats to national economic and security interests.

Letitia James, the New York Attorney General, who is named in the DOJ lawsuit, stated that the Climate Superfund Act “will ensure that those responsible for the climate crisis contribute to remedying the damages they have inflicted.”

Meghan Greenfield, an environmental attorney with prior experience at the DOJ and the Environmental Protection Agency, now a partner at Jenner & Block, remarked that legal conflicts regarding such new laws are inevitable. Some arguments relevant to these measures are novel and untested, revolving around the concept of “equal sovereignty” between states, which posits that states should be equitably treated by the federal government.

“We are navigating complex legal landscapes, with new types of laws and challenges emerging, making predictions difficult,” she noted.

She also expressed anticipation for further confrontations regarding more conventional state climate regulations, particularly those in New York and California.

Source: www.nytimes.com

This Year’s Weed Warrior: A Man’s Mission to Protect the Sonoran Desert

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As Don Pike embarks on his daily stroll, he laces up his brown hiking boots, takes hold of his walking stick and bucket hat, and steps outside. A mere ten feet later, he skillfully navigates around barbed wire to enter the Tonto National Forest. Unlike the typical Tonto scenery, where the ground is strewn with dry grass between native plants and trees, this area feels stark, unfriendly, and barren.

The reason for this desolation is that Mr. Pike is engaged in weed removal.

“I’ve eliminated them so effectively that I can’t find any in this region,” remarked Pike, 84, a retired resident of Maine who has found great joy in his cherished desert and installed floor-to-ceiling windows in his living room.

Mr. Pike is in a battle against buffel grass and fountain grass, two invasive species that are spreading throughout the Sonoran desert. These plants suffocate native flora, elevate the risk and intensity of wildfires, and jeopardize a vibrant ecosystem.

His fight against this encroaching vegetation began nearly 15 years ago. Since then, he estimates he and his team of volunteers have cleared 550 acres of the approximately 14,000 acres they manage. In 2024, his efforts earned him the title of Arizona Weed Manager of the Year.

The work of volunteers like Pike has long been essential in supplementing federal land management, as government officials note that funding for their programs has been lacking for years. However, volunteers like Pike are becoming more crucial than ever given the reductions in federal workforce instigated by the Trump administration and its push for government efficiency.

“It will be vital for federal agencies to find innovative ways to attract individuals,” Pike stated from his back porch in March. “There are many who are eager to get involved, especially those with considerable skills.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Request to Dissolve Google’s Advertising Technology Business Follows Chrome Sale Motion

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Friday, the US government demanded that Google divest its highly lucrative advertising technology division. This follows a judge’s finding that the tech giant is responsible for a second illegal monopoly in just a year.

U.S. government attorney Julia Turber Wood stated in federal court in Virginia, “We have a defendant who has discovered a way to protest. Maintaining the monopoly of repeat offenders is not a viable solution,” she added.

This marks the second request from the US government, amidst another suit regarding Google’s premier search engine, which also seeks to address sales involving the Chrome browser.

The US government specifically pointed out that Google dominates the market for publishing banner advertisements on websites, impacting a wide range of creators and small news outlets.

A second phase of the Virginia court hearing is set for September, where discussions will focus on modifying the advertising landscape per the judge’s ruling.

During the initial phase of last year’s trial, plaintiffs alleged that the majority of websites utilize Google’s Ad software products.

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District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema largely agreed with the rationale and found that Google has established an illegal monopoly over the advertising software and tools utilized by publishers, albeit partially dismissing claims concerning tools used by advertisers.

The US government indicated it would leverage this trial to motivate Google to divest its exchange operations with ad publishers, asserting that it cannot be relied upon to change its practices.

“Behavioral modification is not enough since it won’t stop Google from discovering new methods of exerting control,” stated Tarver Wood.

Google has countered the suggestion of agreeing to a binding commitment to enhance transparency with advertisers and publishers on the AD Tech platform. However, Google’s attorney Karen Dunn acknowledged the “trust issues” raised in the case and expressed willingness to accept oversight to ensure compliance with the judge’s order. Google also contested the proposed divestiture as inappropriate, which Judge Brinkema quickly dismissed as a viable debate.

The judge encouraged both parties to seek mediation, stressing that a negotiated settlement is far more efficient and cost-effective than conducting a prolonged trial.

Source: www.theguardian.com

One of the World’s Biggest Weather Buzzwords Gains Traction

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

For residents of the West Coast, the weather event known as the atmospheric river, stretching from San Diego to Vancouver, can deliver winter-like conditions similar to those in Boston, with heavy rain and snowfall.

Much like the storms that affect the East Coast, the term “Atmospheric River” can often feel trendy. While it may resonate more with those walking the streets of San Francisco than just plain “heavy rain,” it precisely describes moisture-laden storms in the Pacific Ocean that release precipitation upon hitting the mountain ranges in Washington, Oregon, and California.

Yet, these plumes of highly humid air driven by strong winds are not exclusive to the West Coast. They can occur globally, and recently, meteorologists and scientists are starting to apply this term to storms occurring east of the Rocky Mountains. This spring, a series of heavy rains in the central and southern United States resulted in fatal floods, with Accuweather identifying the unusual weather phenomenon as an Atmospheric River. CNN did as well.

Some researchers are hopeful that the term will gain wider acceptance, although not all meteorologists, including those at the National Weather Service, are on board. The crux of the debate revolves around how forecasts will describe the conditions for the day.

The Atmospheric River can stretch up to 2,000 miles.

These weather systems typically form over oceans in tropical and subtropical regions, where water vapor evaporates and coalesces into extensive streams of steam that travel through the lower atmosphere towards the poles. Averaging around 500 miles wide and extending up to 1,000 miles, while many weak atmospheric rivers bring beneficial precipitation, stronger ones can lead to severe rainfall, causing flooding, landslides, and significant destruction.

Rain is not the only aspect; just as squeezing a wet sponge releases water, atmospheric rivers require a mechanism to shed rain and snow. As they ascend, the water vapor cools, condenses, and ultimately falls as precipitation.

On the West Coast, this process repeats from late fall to early spring, facilitated by mountain ranges such as the Cascade and Sierra Nevada, which provide the necessary lift. Atmospheric rivers from the Pacific Ocean collide with these mountains, forcing the water vapor upward where it turns into liquid.

The situation is more complex in other regions, where upward lift usually arises from less defined and unpredictable atmospheric instability rather than geographical features. In early April, for example, cold air descending from the north pushed under the Atmospheric River originating from the bay, elevating the moist air.

“When warm air is forced up to a higher elevation than its surroundings, it can rapidly ascend, leading to severe thunderstorms,” explained Travis O’Brien, an assistant professor at Indiana University and co-author of a noteworthy paper. This study garnered attention regarding Atmospheric Rivers impacting the Midwest and East Coast.

Regions like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas experienced extreme flooding, with rainfall exceeding 15 inches in some areas.

So, why is it called that?

Atmospheric rivers have existed for ages; however, scientists began recognizing and naming them in the mid-1970s to 1980s with advancements in satellite technology, specifically the global operating environment satellite known as GOES, developed by NASA and administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Clifford Masa, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Washington, noted, “Prior to that, we didn’t discuss it much.”

Advancements in satellite technology allowed researchers and meteorologists to visualize atmospheric rivers, leading to more discussions and the formal naming of the phenomenon.

The term “Atmospheric River” was introduced in the 1990s by two scholars at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology: meteorologist Reginald E. Newell and research scientist Yong Zhu. They originally referred to it as Tropospheric River, named after the lowest layer of the Earth’s atmosphere where most weather phenomena occur. It later evolved into “Atmospheric River,” as it was noted that these rivers “carry about the same amount of water as the Amazon.”

Is the terminology overused? Sometimes.

Though the term became more prominent in the 2010s to 2020s, it primarily gained traction on the West Coast, as scientists focused on and studied atmospheric rivers. Numerous research papers identified them as a key source of rain and snow across California, Oregon, and Washington, as well as major contributors to flooding events. One notable occurrence was a series of nine atmospheric rivers that inundated California in December 2022 and January 2023, resulting in widespread flooding and alleviating drought conditions.

Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the University of California, Los Angeles, highlighted that interest in atmospheric rivers tends to peak during California’s exceptionally wet storm seasons. While he appreciates the label, he also points out its potential misuse, stating that excessive use can mislead the public if distinctions between different atmospheric river intensities are not made.

“The primary misconception is that every atmospheric river is an extreme and destructive event, which is not accurate,” Swain explained.

A classification system for atmospheric rivers was introduced in 2019 to clarify this confusion. Dr. Marty Ralph, director of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego and the Center for Extreme Weather and Water in the West, spearheaded the development of this classification system, which has been applied in various global regions including the Arctic and Antarctic. He has been a prominent advocate for researching and popularizing the term atmospheric river, particularly in California, authoring numerous papers on the topic.

“It was Marty Ralph who convened the scientific community around the concept of Atmospheric Rivers as a topic deserving of attention, and his efforts have implicitly tied this concept to the West Coast, despite the original studies being global in scope,” Dr. O’Brien remarked.

This association may mislead the public as daily forecasts from West Coast offices frequently discuss atmospheric rivers, whereas offices in other regions may not.

“In the Midwest and Southeast, we typically don’t use that terminology,” stated Jimmy Barham, lead meteorologist with the Arkansas Meteorological Service. “We simply refer to it as higher-level moisture.”

The focus on the West Coast also means that atmospheric rivers are studied less frequently in other regions, where hurricanes and summer thunderstorms also contribute significantly to rainfall and draw considerable attention.

Dr. Ralph aspires for expanded research to reach the East Coast, asserting, “Even the East Coast often experiences strong, potentially impactful atmospheric rivers.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Grayscale and Prune Algorithm: “Digital Nutritionist” Provides Tips for Reducing Screen Time

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A professor, now regarded as a “digital nutritionist,” suggests that disabling the color on your phone and dedicating 30 minutes a week to pruning your online feeds can enhance consumers’ control over their digital media consumption.

These strategies, termed grayscale and algorithmic tolerance, are part of Dr. Kaitlyn Regehr’s many recommendations. She is an associate professor at the University of London and a prominent authority on digital literacy.

While much of the conversation centers on social media’s negative effects on children, Regehr’s focus is on combating digital illiteracy among parents, empowering them to better understand and use their children’s devices safely and effectively.

In her upcoming book, Smartphone Nation, Regehr advises taking an initial step by performing a digital “walkthrough” of your preferred app alongside friends and family.

“Switching your phone to GreyScale is one of the easiest and quickest methods to grasp how colors and images impact your user experience,” she notes. “This experience allows you to feel the addictive nature of these devices through their visual elements.”

Users can find instructions for this feature in Google Help for Android devices or Apple Support for iPhones.

On the flip side, algorithm resistance focuses on taking charge of the algorithm rather than allowing it to dictate your preferences. Thus, Regehr advocates for being deliberate about what you wish to see in your feed, and filtering out unwanted content for 30 minutes each week.

“When I had concerns about my family’s digital consumption… I struggled to find adequate guidance,” Regehr shares in her book. “I developed a framework to help myself and my family navigate the digital landscape. I came to see myself as a digital nutritionist.”

In a conversation with the Guardian, she expressed her support for school smartphone bans and initiatives promoting a smartphone-free childhood, but highlighted the necessity for more education to encourage families to think critically about their digital choices.

“Even if parents postpone giving their children smartphones until they are 15, they will still turn 16. It’s essential to equip them with the tools to navigate this environment effectively,” she emphasized. “Education on how these devices operate is crucial.”

Her forthcoming book, “Why Are We All Obsessed with the Screen and What You Can Do About It,” aims to bridge this knowledge gap, with new educational resources set to be introduced in schools later this month.

As per the UK’s first national survey, nearly all schools in the country have implemented a ban on mobile phone usage during school hours.

Driven by worries regarding children’s mental health, attention span, and online safety, a survey of over 15,000 schools revealed that 99.8% of primary schools and 90% of secondary schools enforce some form of ban.

“I advocate for my efforts towards a smartphone-free childhood,” stated Regehr, who directs the digital humanities program at UCL and previously explored the rapid amplification of extreme misogynistic content through social media algorithms. “My concern is that enforcing the ban can lead schools and lawmakers to feel complacent, believing they’ve fulfilled their responsibilities.”

Dedicated to two young girls, Regehr’s book aims to prompt a cultural shift. “I aspire to reflect on our generation as being less healthy and more skillfully ensnared, akin to looking back on previous norms like smoking in delivery rooms and not using seatbelts.”

“My aim is to foster cultural change to ensure their lives are better. This represents the largest threat to their health and well-being, and that is the challenge I wish to tackle. I believe change is possible; people simply need access to information.”

Smartphone Nation: Why We’re All Obsessed with Screens and What You Can Do by Dr. Kaitlyn Regehr is set to be published by Bluebird on May 15th.

Source: www.theguardian.com

SpaceX Employees Cast Votes for “Starbase” in Elon Musk’s Company Town

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Residents of a small area in southern Texas will cast their votes this Saturday to establish a town for Elon Musk. This election will officially create Starbase, situated where SpaceX is set to launch the Texas Rocket.

The locals, formerly known as Bocachica, will decide to transform an unorganized neighborhood into a town with the power to enact city ordinances. The outcomes will likely be influenced heavily by SpaceX employees and their families, who represent a significant portion of the community.

The establishment of Starbase places Musk in a unique position to lead what could be viewed as a company town, reminiscent of industrial magnates from a bygone era. This will represent a minor triumph for one of the world’s wealthiest individuals as he steps beyond his unofficial role in the “Ministry of Government Efficiency.”

Although Musk isn’t officially in charge of Starbase, the city is heavily centered around SpaceX and its employees. As of 2025, Starbase has a population of just over 500, with 260 being SpaceX employees and the remainder mainly their families. As reported by Bloomberg.

Bobby Peden, 36, a proposed mayoral candidate, has been with SpaceX since 2013 and serves as the vice president of Texas testing and launch operations. Along with two other candidates, who are also SpaceX employees, he faces no opposition in the race.

Situated near the Mexican border by a small bay feeding into the Gulf of Mexico, Starbase features prefabricated homes, aircraft carriers, and palm trees lining the streets. A nine-foot golden bust of Musk stands outside, emblazoned with the phrase “Elon aka Memelord.”

Last month, the statue was vandalized, with layers of foam and fiberglass being peeled from its cheeks. An employee-exclusive eatery named Astropub features a neon sign reading “Occupation Mars.” One of the main roads is called “Memes Street.”

Visitors admire a large bust of Elon Musk in Bocachica. Photo: Eric Gay/AP

While the creation of Starbase could be viewed as a vanity project for Musk, it brings with it logistical advantages that have been acknowledged by the company. Workers reiterated this at a legislative hearing in April, indicating that establishing the town would facilitate better logistics and coordination during events like test launches. As reported by the Associated Press.

Opposition to Starbase

While the incorporation of Starbase seems imminent, it faces protests from local activists, particularly regarding voter eligibility in the election. The South Texas Environmental Justice Network has organized demonstrations and is urging community members to contact state representatives to oppose the incorporation. The group asserts that with the establishment of Starbase, SpaceX could gain access to public beaches in the town, restricting others’ access to public land.

“Boca Chica Beach belongs to the people, not to Elon Musk,” the organization lamented on its site. “For generations, residents have frequented Boca Chica Beach for fishing, swimming, recreation, and for the spiritual connection of the Karizo/Comecrudo tribes to the beach.

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Over the years, Musk has made bold claims about the future of Starbase, encouraging employees to settle in the area. “Starbase will grow by several thousand in the next year or two,” he tweeted back in 2021.

As Tesla’s performance has plateaued, SpaceX has become an increasingly vital element of Musk’s business empire, with governments awarding the company billions in contracts related to space exploration.

In recent years, Musk has relocated many of his primary residences and businesses to Texas. He resides in a vast $35 million compound in Austin, which includes three separate mansions. During last year’s campaign to reelect Trump, he temporarily moved to Pennsylvania’s swing state.

Musk also spent time in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building while advising Trump, but returned to his company’s oversight in late April after leaving the White House.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Honey, Sweetie, Dear: The Risks of ‘Elderspeak’

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

An illustrative instance of Elderspeak: Cindy Smith was spending time with her father in his assisted living apartment located in Roseville, California.

“He just shot her a look from beneath his bushy brows and asked, ‘What are we, married?'” she recounted.

Her father, 92 years old, was a former county planner and a World War II veteran. Although macular degeneration affected his eyesight and he navigated with caution, his cognitive faculties remained sharp.

“He usually isn’t very placid with others,” Smith noted. “But he felt he was an adult, and he often wasn’t treated as such.”

Most people intuitively grasp what “Elderspeak” entails. “What resembles baby talk is often directed toward the elderly,” stated Clarissa Shaw, a dementia care researcher and co-author affiliated with the University of Iowa College of Nursing. Recent Articles document its prevalence in research.

“It emerges from ageist assumptions of fragility, incapability, and reliance.”

This aspect may also involve inappropriate affection. “Elderspeak behaves like a superior, incorporating terms like ‘honey,’ ‘dearie,’ and ‘sweetie’ to dulcet the communication,” remarked Kristine Williams, a nurse gerontologist from the University of Kansas’s Faculty of Nursing and another co-author.

“We hold negative stereotypes about older individuals, prompting changes in our speech.”

Alternatively, caregivers might resort to using various pronouns. Are you ready for a bath? In this case, “they don’t act as individuals,” Dr. Williams explained. “I certainly hope I’m not bathing with you.”

Occasionally, Elderspeakers utilize loud, brief sentences or simple words delivered slowly. They may also employ an exaggerated singing tone more fitting for children, using terms like “toilet” or “jammies.”

With the so-called tag question – It’s lunchtime now, right? – “You’re posing questions but not allowing them to answer,” Dr. Williams clarified. “You’re telling them how to respond.”

Research in nursing homes highlights how prevalent such speech patterns are. This was evident when Dr. Williams, Dr. Shaw, and their team evaluated video recordings of 80 engagements between staff and dementia patients, finding that 84% involved some variant of Elderspeak.

“Most Elderspeak is well-meaning. People genuinely aim to assist,” Dr. Williams noted. “They fail to recognize the negative implications inherent in it.”

For instance, research among dementia patients in nursing homes has identified a correlation between exposure to Elderspeak and behaviors collectively referred to as resistance to care. Research indicates.

“Individuals might turn away, cry, or refuse,” Dr. Williams elucidated. “They could close their mouths during feeding attempts.” Some may even push caregivers away or become aggressive.

She and her team created a training initiative called Chat (Change Talk), a three-hour session that incorporates videos of communication between staff and patients, aiming to mitigate the use of Elderspeak.

The initiative proved effective. Prior to the training, encounters in 13 nursing homes located in Kansas and Missouri revealed that roughly 35% of staff interactions involved Elderspeak. This figure has now dropped to around 20%.

Simultaneously, resistance behaviors constituted nearly 36% of interaction time. Post-training, this percentage decreased to approximately 20%.

Additionally, a study carried out at Midwest Hospital found the same decline in resistance behaviors among dementia patients. The findings indicated.

Furthermore, the implementation of chat training in nursing homes was linked to a reduction in antipsychotic medication usage. While the results did not achieve statistical significance, they were deemed “clinically significant” by the researchers due to the small sample sizes involved.

“Many of these medications carry a black box warning from the FDA,” Dr. Williams mentioned. “Their use in frail elderly populations can be perilous due to potential side effects.”

Currently, Dr. Williams, Dr. Shaw, and their colleagues have streamlined the chat training for online implementation. They are assessing its effectiveness across around 200 nursing homes nationwide.

Even without a structured program, individuals and organizations can combat Elderspeak. Kathleen Carmody, the owner of Senior Matters Home Care and Consulting in Columbus, Ohio, suggests that when addressing clients, one should use titles like Mr. or Mrs., unless instructed otherwise.

However, in long-term care settings, families and residents may express concerns that altering staff communication could lead to resentment.

A few years ago, Carol Fahe dealt with a mother who was vision-impaired at an assisted living facility near Cleveland, becoming increasingly dependent in her 80s.

She described staff members who called her mother “sweetie” and “honey,” hovering over her while tying her hair in pigtails, likening the treatment to how toddlers are treated, said Fahe, 72, a psychologist from Kaneohe, Hawaii.

She recognized the aides meant well, but “there’s a misleading notion associated with that,” she reflected. “It doesn’t feel good for anyone. It’s isolating.”

Fahe contemplated addressing her concerns with the aide but hesitated, fearing retaliation. Ultimately, she moved her mother to a different facility for various reasons.

However, opposing Elderspeak doesn’t need to be confrontational, Dr. Shaw emphasized. Residents, patients, and individuals encountering Elderspeak elsewhere can respectfully express their preferences regarding how they wish to be addressed and what names they prefer, which is often applicable beyond healthcare environments.

Cultural variances also play a significant role. Felipe Agudero, a health communication educator at Boston University, pointed out that in specific contexts, endearing terms or phrases “aren’t rooted in underestimating someone’s intellect. They represent affection.”

Having moved from Colombia, he noted that his 80-year-old mother does not take offense when a physician or healthcare staff asks her to “Tómesela pastilita” (take this little pill) or “Muévanlas manitas” (move your little hands).

Such expressions are customary and “she feels as though she’s conversing with someone who cares,” Dr. Agudero conveyed.

“Arrive at a place of negotiation,” he advised. “There’s no need for confrontation. Patients have every right to state, ‘I prefer not to be spoken to in that manner.’ “

In response, professionals should “acknowledge that the recipient may not share the same cultural background,” he noted, adding, “This is how I communicate, but I can adapt.”

Lisa Graeme, 65, a retired writer from Alvada, Colorado, recently confronted Elderspeak when she enrolled in Medicare drug coverage.

She recalled receiving nearly daily calls from mail-order pharmacies, following their failure to meet her prescription needs.

These “overly sweet” callers seemed to follow a script, addressing her as “Mr. Graeme,” as if they were administering medication.

Frustrated by their assumptions and their probing questions about her medication adherence, Ms. Graeme informed them that she had sufficient stock, thanks. She organizes her own refills.

“I asked them to cease calling,” she recounted. “And they did.”

The New Old Age, KFF Health News.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Explore New Measles Treatments Rather Than Mandating Vaccinations

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A spokesperson from HHS stated that the U.S. is experiencing its largest measles outbreak in 25 years, marking the latest move in a series of actions by top health officials. Experts worry that this may negatively impact public confidence in vaccines, which are crucial for public health.

This announcement comes as Kennedy faces intense criticism while managing the outbreak, which has severely affected regions in the southwest with low vaccination rates. The outbreak has led to hundreds of infections and two fatalities among young girls. As of Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported over 930 cases nationwide, with most linked to the southwestern outbreaks.

Critics argue that Kennedy has emphasized unproven treatments like cod liver oil supplements and provided limited support for the measles vaccine, which has a proven 97% efficacy rate in preventing infections.

Redirecting resources towards potential treatments rather than promoting vaccination can have serious consequences at the core of the outbreak.

“We’ve seen many individuals engaging with public health schools,” noted Jennifer Nuzzo, an epidemiologist at Brown University’s Faculty of Public Health.

Researchers have extensively studied various vitamins and drug therapies as potential treatments for measles, said Michael Osterholm, an epidemiologist from the University of Minnesota.

Currently, there is no effective treatment for the measles virus, which can cause pneumonia and complicate oxygen absorption in the lungs, as well as lead to brain swelling resulting in blindness, hearing loss, and cognitive impairment.

“It’s not that there is a lack of research,” he emphasized.

Patients with measles are typically given “supportive care” to ease symptoms, which may include fever reduction, supplemental oxygen, and IV fluids.

HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon mentioned that the initiative to explore new treatments is intended to assist those who have opted not to get vaccinated. He reiterated that the CDC still endorses the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine as the most effective preventive measure against measles.

“Our commitment is to support all families in minimizing the risks of hospitalization, severe complications, and death from measles, regardless of vaccination status,” he stated.

Kennedy mentioned the example of the Mennonite community in Western Texas, which is facing significant challenges during this outbreak.

Nixon indicated that the CDC will collaborate with universities to test new treatments for “various illnesses,” including existing drug and vitamin combinations. This initiative was initially reported by CBS News.

Public health experts expressed confusion over Kennedy’s decision to seek new treatments rather than support vaccines, which possess decades of safety and efficacy data. They remarked that this approach seems to contradict a longstanding emphasis on disease prevention rather than treatment.

“This is akin to saying, ‘Please go ahead and do something; don’t exercise or smoke excessively. We will devote all resources to heart transplants,'” remarked Dr. Jonathan Temte, former chairman of the CDC’s Vaccine Advisory Committee.

Throughout the measles outbreak, Kennedy has delivered inconsistent messages regarding MMR vaccinations. At one point, he referred to the vaccine as “the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles.”

Yet, he has also raised concerns about its safety, stating, “We don’t know the risks associated with many of these products since they lack safety testing,” during a CBS News interview last month.

Healthcare professionals in western Texas report that Kennedy’s focus on treatment over vaccinations complicates their efforts.

In the early phase of the outbreak, he claimed to have heard of “almost miraculous and instantaneous recoveries” from treatments like cod liver oil.

While doctors may manage severe measles cases with high doses of vitamin A in hospitals, experts advise against its unsupervised use.

Shortly after, doctors reported encountering a measles patient who postponed critical care to self-treat with some supplements endorsed by Kennedy. They indicated that some children with measles received dangerously high levels of vitamin A.

Dr. Osterholm noted that Kennedy’s approach assumes that people’s views on the vaccine are unchangeable.

Despite Kennedy’s assertion that the Mennonite community has “religious objections” to the vaccine due to its inclusion of “fetal fragments,” community historians report no religious doctrine prohibits vaccinations. Vaccine experts confirm that MMR vaccines do not contain fetal tissue.

Instead, local doctors attribute the reluctance of Mennonite families to vaccinate their children to misinformation regarding the vaccine’s safety perpetuated by Kennedy.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Universal Antivenom Could Emerge from a Volunteer Who Endures 200 Snake Bites

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The video lasts under 2.5 minutes. A slender man with thick hair enters the room, pulling a long black mamba that can deliver a lethal bite within an hour. He bites his left arm and moments later, extends his right arm towards a Taipan from Papua New Guinea. “Thank you for watching,” he states, as he calms down to speak to the camera while his left arm bleeds before it is bandaged.

For nearly 18 years, 57-year-old Tim Friede has injected himself with over 650 precisely measured doses of venom from 16 deadly snake species to develop immunity. He has also allowed snakes—mostly one at a time, although occasionally two, as in the video—to bite him nearly 200 times.

This coincidence, also known as one of its names, could aid in addressing global health issues. With over 600 species of venomous snakes across the globe, they bite approximately 2.7 million people annually, causing around 120,000 fatalities and affecting 400,000 others.

Researchers report that in Friede’s blood, they have discovered antibodies capable of neutralizing toxins from multiple snake species. According to Journal Cell.

“I am genuinely proud to contribute something meaningful for humanity and make a difference for people 8,000 miles away.

Deforestation, urban expansion, and climate change have heightened the risk of snake bites in recent years, yet antivenom research has not kept pace with demand.

“This is a more significant issue than the first world might realize,” stated Jacob Glanville, founder and CEO of Centivax, which aims to create broad-spectrum vaccines and serves as the lead author of the study.

Dr. Glanville and his team discovered that two potent antibodies from Friede’s blood, when paired with drugs that inhibit neurotoxins, can protect mice from the venom of 19 deadly snake species from various families around the world.

Experts not involved in the research consider this an extraordinary achievement. Most antivenoms can only counteract venom from one or a few closely related snake species within a particular area.

Nicholas Casewell, a researcher at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine in the UK, indicates that antivenom cocktails could potentially prevent fatalities and injuries from all snake families.

“The principles from this study can be effectively applied to other snakes,” he remarked.

Friede’s journey with snakes began with a harmless bite from a five-year-old garter snake, which sparked his lifelong fascination. “If I had known what lay ahead, I would have laughed at the thought,” he reminisces with a chuckle.

However, it wasn’t until he married and started a family while working in construction that he seriously began to explore his interest in snakes. He started experimenting with scorpions around 2000 but soon transitioned to snakes. At one point, he kept 60 venomous snakes in his basement lab.

His experiments came to a sudden halt on September 12, 2001, when he was bitten by two cobras, his emotions heightened by the previous day’s terrorist attack and the recent loss of a friend. Those were his first encounters with snakes without adequate immunity built up. While he initially felt fine after the first bite, the second caused him to feel cold, his eyelids to droop, and he lost his ability to speak. He awoke four days later in a hospital after slipping into a coma.

His wife was furious, while he felt frustrated with himself. He resolved to adopt a more methodical approach, carefully measuring venom doses and timing the bites.

“I work during the day, spend time with my kids and family at home, then head downstairs to work late into the night, only to repeat it all over again the next day,” he explained.

He faced numerous accidents, including unintentional bites, anaphylactic shocks, and power outages. Friede describes himself as a self-taught scientist, asserting, “No university in the world provides training for this. I’ve done as much as I could.”

Two scientific teams studied Friede’s blood over the years, but those efforts led to little progress. By the time he met Dr. Glanville in 2017, he was ready to give up.

Dr. Glanville was investigating what scientists refer to as broadly neutralizing antibodies as a foundation for universal vaccines, inspired by his upbringing in Mayan villages in the Guatemalan Highlands. He was intrigued by the potential to apply the same strategy to develop a Universal Antivenom.

Initially, he said his “humble” goal was to find someone like a hapless snake researcher who had experienced multiple bites. His quest took a turn when he stumbled upon an article about Friede.

“I had been eagerly awaiting this opportunity,” shared Dr. Glanville, expressing gratitude towards Friede.

In partnership with Columbia University vaccine researcher Peter Kwon, Dr. Glanville isolated broadly acting antibodies from Friede’s blood and devised a combination treatment.

Tests on antibodies from Friede’s blood against the venom of 19 snake species showed that one broadly neutralizing antibody protected mice from six species. When combined with a small molecule known as Varespladib, the second antibody provided full protection against 13 snake species and partial defense against the remaining six.

Cobras and mambas produce toxins that paralyze nerve cells, while the venom from Viper family snakes damages tissue and induces bleeding in victims. Each snake species within its family produces a unique combination of dozens of toxins, which can vary by region, age, diet, and season. It can vary significantly.

Despite advances, antivenoms are still produced using methods from 130 years ago. A small amount of venom is injected into horses, camels, or sheep, and the antibodies produced in response are harvested. These antibodies are typically specific to the type of venom administered and offer minimal relief from other snake venom types.

In fact, many antivenoms can cause more severe reactions than the venom itself, as mammalian proteins can provoke fatal allergic reactions.

Researchers are seeking treatments that mitigate these side effects. Cocktail treatments involving small-molecule drugs and monoclonal antibodies targeting critical toxic families are being developed—crafted copies of human antibodies that neutralize toxins across numerous species, according to Dr. Casewell.

Future plans include testing the Australian treatment on dogs brought into veterinary clinics for snake bites. Researchers also aim to identify additional components from Friede’s blood that could expand protection across all 19 snake species under study.

However, Friede’s experimental days are over. His last bite came from a water cobra in November 2018. He has since divorced; his wife and children have moved away. “That felt like enough,” he recalled.

While he misses the thrill of interacting with snakes, he insists it was not driven by painful bites. “I might revisit this in the future,” he reflected, “but for now, I’m content with where I am.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump Proposes Budget Cuts to CDC Funding

Posted on May 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

National Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasizes that addressing the “epidemic” of chronic diseases is fundamental to his health agenda, often citing unexpected statistics as a compelling reason for public health reform in the nation.

Recently, President Trump proposed a budget that includes a nearly 50% reduction in funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This plan includes the complete elimination of the Chronic Disease Center, leaving many state and city health officials stunned.

“A significant portion of Americans suffers from some form of chronic illness,” noted Dr. Matifha Frathschwei Davis, the health director for the city of St. Louis.

In discussing the proposed cuts, she questioned, “How can we justify this as a step toward making America healthy again?”

Last month, the Federal Health Administration eliminated 2,400 positions from the CDC. The National Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, which operates with the largest budget within the CDC, was affected greatly by these changes.

Several initiatives, including those addressing lead poisoning, smoking cessation, and reproductive health, were discontinued amid the reorganization.

The proposed budget slashes CDC funding to around $4 billion, down from $9.2 billion allocated for 2024.

Notably, the budget plan does not account for the $1.2 billion set aside for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which could mean even deeper cuts than Trump’s initial proposal indicates.

Additional programs aimed at preventing injuries, including those from firearms, HIV surveillance and prevention initiatives, and grants for state preparedness in public health emergencies, will also be eliminated.

The budget outlines that these reductions aim to eliminate “duplicate, DEI, or unnecessary programs.” While Congress will draft a federal budget, it’s uncertain how much influence Trump’s proposal will wield, given the current Republican majority and his allegiance to the former president.

CDC officials were informed that the Chronic Disease Center’s functions are to be absorbed by a new division under the Department of Health, called Management for a Healthy America.

Moreover, the newly released proposal seems to earmark $500 million for the Health Secretary to focus on “nutrition, physical activity, healthy lifestyle, medication, and treatment.”

However, the Chronic Disease Center’s budget at the CDC had nearly tripled previously. Plus, even if some chronic disease programs are revived under AHA, it’s doubtful that CDC scientists from Atlanta will be included.

“The true experts in managing these programs might no longer be with the CDC,” stated Dr. Scott Harris, state health officer with the Alabama Department of Public Health. “My state certainly lacks the same level of expertise.”

The Department of Health and Human Services has yet to respond to requests for comments.

The CDC’s Chronic Disease Center has spearheaded initiatives to prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s disease. The center has also launched programs that range from developing hiking trails in rural areas to advocating for healthier food options in airports and promoting wellness in underserved communities.

Dr. Davis noted that her department is already feeling the impact of cuts aimed at reducing smoking and lead poisoning, as over $11 billion in funding previously provided by the CDC to the state’s health department has been withdrawn.

“I’m going to be back in the COVID-19 cycle with everything happening,” Dr. Davis remarked.

Under the proposed budget, the administration suggests that responsibilities of eliminated programs would be better handled at the state level. Yet, the state’s health department already administers the majority of chronic disease programs, with 75% of the funding from the CDC supporting these efforts.

Dr. Harris described the loss of funds as “devastating for us.”

Alabama ranks among the states with the highest rates of chronic disease, with about 84% of the Department of Public Health’s budget reliant on the CDC, according to Dr. Harris. Approximately $6 million is allocated for programs addressing chronic diseases, such as blood pressure screenings, diabetes nutrition education, and promoting physical activity.

He added, “I really don’t know where these funds would come from if these cuts happen.” “No one truly seems to know what to expect, and our input isn’t being sought.”

Minnesota’s health department has already reduced its workforce by 140 employees, with more potential layoffs looming if additional CDC funds are lost. Cutting chronic disease prevention resources jeopardizes nursing homes, vaccination clinics, and public health programs for Native Americans in the state.

“Federal actions have left us in precarious situations without support,” noted Dr. Brooke Cunningham, the state health commissioner.

Recently, Dr. Cunningham observed, “There was a shared understanding at the local, state, and federal levels that investing in health was crucial.”

The impact of the CDC’s Chronic Disease Center extends into many unexpected areas of American life.

In Prairie Village, Kansas, Stephanie Bar was made aware of the center’s resources while working as an uninsured waitress fifteen years ago when she discovered a lump in her breast.

Through the CDC’s National Early Breast and Cervical Cancer Detection Program, she received mammograms and ultrasounds, and staff assisted her in signing up for Medicaid after her biopsy revealed cancer. “It was caught just in time,” said Barr, now 45 and cancer-free.

Since its 1991 inception, the program has conducted over 16.3 million screenings for more than 6.3 million individuals, offering vital services to those without affordable access.

One such organization, 530 Health, has petitioned lawmakers to reject the proposed HHS budget, which would reduce discretionary spending by about one-third. The signers expressed that such cuts would “devastate” the nation’s research and public health systems.

The budget also suggests dismantling the disease registry and surveillance frameworks.

“Without gathering data and maintaining these surveillance systems, we lose sight of health trends,” explained Dr. Philip Fan, director of Dallas County Health and Human Services in Texas.

“You lose all historical context,” he added.

In his former role as the Director of Chronic Diseases in Texas, Dr. Huang collaborated closely with CDC experts who successfully curbed tobacco use among Americans. “Dismantling smoking and health initiatives is irrational if you aim to address chronic illnesses,” he stated.

Smoking continues to be a leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., claiming over 480,000 lives annually, as per CDC data.

Although more than 10% of Americans smoke regularly, usage rates differ significantly by region, and CDC monitoring helps identify areas that require intervention programs.

“While smoking rates have declined, tobacco companies are poised to exploit any federal laxity,” warned Erica Seward, vice president of advocacy for the American Lung Association.

She cautioned that tobacco companies are continuously developing new products, like nicotine pouches, adding, “Reining this back in will cost significantly more.”

The CDC Chronic Disease Center collaborates with community and academic institutions to promote effective health initiatives, leading nutrition classes and fitness programs to engage rural youths in Iowa as well as training members of Black churches in Columbia, South Carolina.

In rural Missouri, numerous walking trails have been developed in the “boot heels” region, an area marked by high obesity and diabetes rates, as noted by Dr. Ross Brownson, a public health researcher at Washington University in St. Louis, who is allied with the CDCC to steer the Center for Prevention Research.

“There’s robust evidence that enhancing community walkability can increase physical activity,” affirmed Dr. Brownson. “While there are no health clubs in the countryside, residents can appreciate nature and walk, and land is relatively affordable.”

In Rochester, New York, CDC funding supports training for deaf individuals to lead wellness programs tailored for other members of the deaf community who might struggle to engage in traditional gym classes.

In San Diego, researchers are exploring methods to shield farm workers from UV and heat-related ailments.

“When they mobilize and begin to take action, they become self-sufficient and are no longer reliant on government support,” commented Allison Bey, who recently lost her position overseeing such initiatives at the CDC.

The CDC reorganization has also resulted in the cancellation of the lead poisoning program, a significant concern as lead exposure represents “one of our major public health threats in Cleveland,” noted Dr. David Margolius, the city’s public health director.

Although the CDC does not directly fund the lead program in Cleveland, which relies on state funding, Dr. Margolius emphasized, “We depend on federal expertise to guide us toward a future free of lead exposure. This shift will have major repercussions for us.”

Source: www.nytimes.com