The Environmental Health Perspective is widely regarded as the premier magazine in the field, announcing its suspension of new research submissions due to uncertainties surrounding federal funding cuts.
For over 50 years, this journal has been supported by the National Institutes of Health to evaluate research on the impacts of environmental toxins, including persistent chemicals and air pollution, publishing findings at no cost.
Joel Kaufman, the journal’s editor-in-chief, opted to halt new submissions because of the “lack of confidence” regarding the funding of critical expenses such as copyediting and updating editing software.
He refrained from providing comments on the publication’s future outlook.
“If the journal were to disappear, it would be a tremendous loss,” stated Jonathan Levy, Chair of the Department of Environmental Health at Boston University. “It diminishes access to crucial information needed for insightful decision-making.”
The NEJM editor referred to the letter as “blushy threats.” Recently, the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, published by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, reported receiving similar letters.
Scientific journals have been under scrutiny from leading health officials during the Trump administration.
In a book published last year, Dr. Martin A. McCurry, the newly appointed FDA commissioner, indicated that the Editorial Committee of “Gatekeeping” will only disseminate information that aligns with “groupthink narratives.”
“If you don’t establish a plan to publish credible science now, I will find a way to sue you,” he warned.
Still, the uncertainty surrounding EHP has left researchers perplexed. They noted that funding cuts seem to conflict with the Trump administration’s declared priorities.
For instance, Kennedy has consistently highlighted the significance of investigating environmental factors in chronic diseases. The new administration has also shown interest in transparency and public access to scientific journals, a principle EHP pioneered.
EHP was among the first “open access” journals, accessible to anyone without a subscription, and unlike many other open access journals that impose substantial fees, EHP’s federal backing allowed researchers at smaller institutions to publish without financial concerns.
“There are several layers of irony in this situation,” Dr. Levy remarked.
EHP isn’t the only journal affected by funding cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services.
A draft budget obtained by The New York Times suggests that two journals published by the CDC—Emerging Infectious Diseases and Chronic Diseases—may face cuts. Both are available at no cost to authors and readers and are among the leading journals in their fields.
HHS spokesman Andrew Nixon stated that there was “no final decision” on the forthcoming budget.
Published monthly, Emerging Infectious Diseases provides state-of-the-art insights on global infectious disease threats.
Jason Kindrachuk, a virologist at the University of Manitoba, who has published studies on Marburg and MPOX in the journal, noted its importance in shaping response strategies during outbreaks.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advised new parents to “conduct their own research” prior to “conducting their own research” during a television interview regarding infant vaccinations.
In a conversation with talk show host Phil, Kennedy stated that aired on Merritt on Monday, the 100th day of the Trump administration. He reiterated his stance, saying, “To prevent the spread of measles, getting the vaccine is your best option.”
However, Kennedy maintained that the choice rests with individuals. By suggesting that the vaccine poses risks, he undermines decades of guidance from public health professionals, including officials from the CDC.
“We live in a democracy, and part of being a responsible parent is to do your own research,” he replied to questions from women in the audience regarding vaccine safety advice for new parents. “You should investigate strollers, the food they consume, and the medications they receive.”
The phrase “I did my research” has emerged as a significant cultural and political term during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pro-vaccination advocates have criticized individuals primarily from the political left who opted out of vaccination. This expression evolved into a meme and has appeared in mock gravestones at Halloween-themed cemeteries in liberal areas.
The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond promptly to requests for comments.
Kennedy’s remarks were made amidst the largest measles outbreak in the U.S. in nearly 25 years, which has resulted in the deaths of two young children and one adult.
Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine authority at Philadelphia Children’s Hospital, remarked that while he often disagrees with Kennedy, “it’s perfectly reasonable to be skeptical about a vaccine.” However, parents who wish to research should be mindful of their information sources.
“When you talk about doing your own research, it’s important to consult individuals with expertise in the area, or at least seek information from credible online sources. This doesn’t mean relying solely on chat rooms or social media,” said Dr. Offit. He emphasized that while good information exists, “many poor sources can mislead you about your options, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. exemplifies that.”
Another vaccine specialist, Dr. Peter Hotez from Baylor School of Medicine, contended that Kennedy was being misleading. “He claims people are doing their own research—what parents often download is a flood of misinformation, steering away from expert health advice toward dubious influences.”
Kennedy further suggested that measles vaccinations could lead to various illnesses without substantiation. “Would you like to stop measles?” he inquired. “Certainly, but does it cause other issues like seizures or autoimmune diseases? We don’t know. No one can answer that.”
In reality, studies indicate that with rare exceptions, vaccinated individuals are less likely than those infected to develop autoimmune illnesses, concluding that vaccines “not only shield patients from infections but also from complications, including autoimmune symptoms.”
Kennedy’s statements in the interview were generally flawed. He proclaimed, “New medications are approved by external panels, not by the FDA or CDC.”
This is inaccurate. While external expert panels advise the FDA on controversial drug approvals, only the FDA holds the authority to sanction or reject new medications, vaccines, and treatments; the CDC does not partake in this process.
“Kennedy must understand the role of the FDA in drug development and marketing decisions,” asserted Dr. Robert Califf, the FDA’s commissioner under President Joseph R. Biden Jr.
Kennedy also erroneously asserted that vaccines were not subjected to safety evaluations prior to or following approval. “There is no initial safety research, and there’s no monitoring system afterward,” he claimed. “Vaccines are the only medical products exempt from pre-licensure safety assessments.”
In fact, the FDA licenses vaccines after an extensive year-long process involving thorough lab and animal testing, followed by human trials. Rigorous research on vaccine safety and efficacy is mandated. Typically, thousands participate in large clinical trials, as emphasized by Dr. Peter Marks, head of the vaccine division, who recently announced his resignation.
“I am uncertain about the origin of this misconception,” remarked Dr. Marks, critical of Kennedy. “Vaccines undergo extensive safety evaluations. Since they are administered to healthy individuals, safety is of utmost importance.”
Upon licensing, vaccines are monitored through various databases. Vaccine Safety Data Links employ electronic health records nationwide to detect unusual side effects, including rare myocarditis cases reported in young men post-COVID-19 vaccination.
Another system, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, established in 1990 as the “National Early Warning System,” relies on reports from both patients and healthcare providers. Many vaccine skeptics, including Kennedy, have cited Vaers data to argue that vaccines are harmful, but it is not intended to ascertain causality regarding health issues; rather, it flags potential concerns for further investigation.
The FDA operates an additional safety monitoring program known as BEST, focusing on biologics effectiveness and safety initiatives.
Dr. Sean O’Leary, chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Infectious Diseases Committee, stated that it is incorrect to assert that federal officials do not surveil vaccine safety. “I am uncertain about the source of this claim,” he noted.
He added, “We recognize various rare adverse events. If it becomes evident that the risks approach or surpass the benefits, the vaccine will be withdrawn from the market.”
Shortly after President Trump issued an executive order to expedite submarine mining efforts, the US government received its first permission application. This initiative is championed by notable supporters within the metal industry.
On Tuesday, CEO Gerald Baron was present in Washington for a controversial hearing before the House Committee on Natural Resources. He likened the beginning of this process to a “starting gun” signaling a race to extract minerals like cobalt and nickel from nodules situated 2.5 miles deep on the ocean floor.
Debate erupted among committee members from both parties regarding the environmental implications of this mining practice. The Trump administration indicated it would contemplate permits for mining activities within US jurisdiction and international waters.
Other nations have accused the US of attempting to bypass international law, arguing that the waters designated for submarine mining should come under the governance of an independent international authority.
To date, no commercial submarine mining has been conducted.
California leader Jared Huffman, a ranking Democrat on the committee, criticized both the Metals Company and Trump for advancing undersea mining in “reckless cowboy fashion.” Democrats raised concerns over the financial viability of mining cobalt and nickel, citing major electric vehicle manufacturers’ shift towards alternative battery materials.
“The financial model of the industry is based on overly optimistic assumptions and does not reflect the realities and volatility of the global mineral market,” remarked Oregon Democrat Maxine E. Dexter.
The Metals Company attempted to reassure the committee, arguing that the potential harm to the seabed would outweigh the limited job creation and that accessing these minerals could reduce dependence on Chinese sources. They stated that a decade of extensive environmental studies supports their position.
Trump’s order follows years of delays by international authorities in establishing a regulatory framework for submarine mining. The authorities, established under United Nations auspices decades ago, are likely to miss another deadline this year for finalizing these regulations.
Baron informed the committee that it took him 14 years to draft the mining code, describing it as a “deliberate strategy” to slow undersea mining.
He further claimed that a polymetallic nodule extracted by his company is now on President Trump’s desk in the Oval Office.
According to the US Geological Survey, it is estimated that nodules within the Clarion Clipperton Zone in the Eastern Pacific contain more nickel, cobalt, and manganese than all terrestrial reserves combined. This proposed mining zone spans half the size of the US between Mexico and Hawaii.
Committee Chair Paul Gosar, a Republican from Arizona, insisted that subsea mining is essential for liberating the US from China’s “supply chain control.”
China has recently placed export restrictions on several rare earth elements, raising concerns that American companies may face shortages in producing advanced electronic devices.
The House Committee also considered a study discussing the impact of submarine mining on the seafloor conducted by Thomas Peacock, a mechanical engineering professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, partially funded by metal companies.
Dr. Peacock indicated that there may be countless undiscovered species in the Clarion Clipperton Zone, suggesting that certain areas should be off-limits for mining. However, he noted that the anticipated environmental impacts of nodule mining might not be as severe as speculated.
He specifically minimized the risk of mining causing plumes of sand and debris that could harm seabed life, comparing the fragments to “grains of sand in a fishbowl.”
In attendance with Mr. Baron was the CEO of Impossible Metals, a future deep-sea mining company. Unlike other companies that use vacuum-like extraction technologies along the ocean floor, Impossible Metals claims to have developed machines that can collect nodules selectively without disturbing the seabed.
“Our underwater robots hover to gather mineral-rich nodules from the seabed through AI-guided selective harvesting,” explained Oliver Gunasekara, CEO of Impossible Metals. “We avoid all visible marine life and leave 60% untouched.”
The company has reapplied for permission to conduct operations in US Samoa. Gunasekara noted that their previous applications were rejected during the Biden administration, but with new leadership in both American Samoa and Washington, he is optimistic about gaining approval.
The former athletic director, charged with using artificial intelligence to generate racist and anti-Semitic audio clips, also allegedly impersonated the school’s principal, as indicated by prosecutors.
Dazon Darien, 32, the former director, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and a disturbing charge related to school activities, according to the Baltimore County State Law Office. He previously faced additional allegations including theft, stalking, and witness retaliation.
As reported by the Associated Press, Darien pleaded guilty to charges of intrusive school management while maintaining innocence under an Alford plea.
Darien, who previously served as athletic director at Pikesville High School, produced an audio clip containing derogatory comments about “ungrateful black kids” and light jabs at Jewish students. Police records revealed that the audio aimed to discredit the school principal, Eric Eiswart.
In a statement of fact, Eiswart mentioned having “discussions” with Darien regarding his contract renewal, citing “poor performance, inadequate procedures, and reluctance to follow the chain of command” as concerns. Darien’s troubles began in late 2023, which led to the audio’s release, according to the statement.
The attorneys representing Darien did not return calls or messages on Tuesday. The Baltimore County Public Schools District declined to comment on the situation, and attempts to reach Mr. Eiswart on Tuesday were unsuccessful.
Manufactured recordings shared on Instagram in January 2024 quickly circulated, impacting Baltimore County Public Schools, which serves over 100,000 students. Eiswart, who withheld comment during the investigation, has received multiple threats to his safety, according to police. He has also been placed on administrative leave by the school district.
Police records indicated that Darien expressed dissatisfaction with Eiswart in December after the principal initiated an investigation into him. It was revealed that Darien had allowed roommates to pay the district $1,916, falsely claiming the roommate was an assistant coach for the Pikesville Girls’ soccer team.
Shortly thereafter, police reported that Darien utilized the district’s internet services to explore artificial intelligence tools, including OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT chatbots, and Microsoft’s Bing Chat.
(The New York Times filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft in December 2023 for copyright infringement concerning news content related to AI systems.)
Creating realistic, manufactured videos, often referred to as deepfakes, has become increasingly simple. Previously, one required sophisticated software, but now many of these tools are available through smartphone apps, raising concerns among AI researchers regarding the potential dangers posed by this technology.
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla remarked on Tuesday that uncertainties surrounding President Donald Trump’s Drug Tariff are hindering the company’s ability to pursue further investments in U.S. manufacturing and R&D.
During the company’s Q1 Revenue Call, Bourla responded to inquiries about Pfizer’s expectations regarding tariff negotiations, emphasizing the need for increased investments in the U.S.
“If there’s a guarantee of no tariffs… significant investments could be made in both R&D and manufacturing here,” Bourla stated, emphasizing the company’s desire for “certainty.”
“In times of uncertainty, everyone is focused on minimizing costs, as we are, leading to frugal investment practices. We are poised to allocate funds; that’s what I hope to see,” Bourla commented.
He highlighted that the current tax climate, which previously favored overseas manufacturing, is “undergoing significant changes” with the establishment of a global minimum tax around 15%. Bourla expressed concerns that these changes alone do not necessarily make the U.S. a more appealing investment destination without added tariff incentives or clarity.
“I spoke with [Trump], and I believe he aims to modify the existing tax framework, particularly for domestically produced goods,” Bourla said, indicating that further reductions could incentivize U.S. manufacturing.
In contrast to other companies navigating shifting trade policies, Pfizer did not alter its full-year forecast on Tuesday. Nevertheless, the company noted in a revenue statement that its guidance “currently does not account for any potential impacts related to future tariffs or trade policy changes, which remain unpredictable.”
In the revenue call, Pfizer executives mentioned that the guidance reflects $150 million in expenses attributed to Trump’s existing tariffs.
“The guidance we didn’t address today includes some of the current tariffs,” stated Pfizer CFO Dave Denton over the phone.
“We believe we are still trending towards the upper end of the guidance range, even with these costs this year,” he added.
President Trump’s 100th day in office commenced with what seems to be a rapidly developing dispute between the White House and Amazon.
During a press conference on Tuesday morning, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt took a strong stance. Amazon had accused the administration of being “hostile and political” following a report from Punchbowl News claiming that the online retail giant’s products reflected an increase in tariff-related prices.
Displaying import fees would have clarified to American consumers that they bear the costs of Trump’s tariff policy, rather than China.
Following the report, Trump reportedly spoke with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos over the phone, as confirmed by three sources familiar with the conversation. An Amazon spokesperson quickly denied that any such policy was active, and by Tuesday afternoon, Trump was back to complimenting Bezos.
“Jeff Bezos is really good,” Trump told reporters during a trip to Michigan for a rally celebrating the first 100 days of his second term. “He solved the problem very quickly. He did the right thing. He’s a good guy.”
The relationship between Trump and Bezos seemed to shift dramatically in just a few hours. Bezos, one of the billionaires aligning with the White House, was courted by Trump due to his business acumen. Yet the administration was quick to publicly challenge Bezos when it appeared his business interests could potentially undermine Trump’s political position.
This strategy appeared effective.
Leavitt criticized Amazon on Tuesday morning while standing beside Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent. She mentioned her recent phone conversation with the president regarding the Punchbowl report and questioned why Amazon didn’t react similarly to price increases during the Biden administration amid inflation.
Leavitt referred to a 2021 Reuters article declaring, “Amazon is affiliated with Chinese propaganda arms,” stating it was “not a surprise.”
An Amazon spokesperson later indicated that while they acknowledged some points from the Punchbowl report, the new feature Amazon Haul—aimed at competing with Chinese retailer Temu—would display “import fees” to eliminate customs loopholes.
“The team is always discussing ideas,” said spokesperson Ty Rogers in a statement. He clarified that this concept has not been contemplated for the main Amazon site, adding, “This will never be approved and will not happen.”
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick shared on social media that this development was “good news.”
Trump’s assertive tariffs on Chinese goods initiated an escalating trade war, despite his administration withdrawing from wider global negotiations, citing talks with numerous countries regarding new trade agreements.
Leavitt’s criticisms of Amazon were particularly significant given Bezos’ long-standing efforts to curry favor with the White House. Amazon contributed $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund and reserved prime seating for Bezos and his wife.
Before the election, Bezos canceled editor support for Kamala Harris at the Washington Post. Recently, Amazon Prime has added multiple seasons of “Apprentice” to its lineup and struck deals with the Trump family for a documentary about Melania Trump.
In December, Bezos discussed the move to Trump at the New York Times Dealbook Summit, commenting, “What I’ve seen so far is that he’s calmer compared to his first term.”
He remarked, “I’m very hopeful. He seems to have a lot of energy in reducing regulations.”
When asked about his relationship with Bezos in a recent Cover Story in Atlantic Magazine, released Monday, Trump stated, “He’s 100%. He was amazing.”
However, when Levitt was posed a question on Tuesday morning about whether Bezos would still be seen as a Trump supporter, she deflected.
“Look, I’m not going to discuss the president’s relationship with Jeff Bezos,” Levitt replied.
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<p>Users of Reddit unknowingly participated in AI-driven experiments conducted by scientists, raising concerns about ethical practices in such research.</p>
<p>The platform is organized into various "subreddits," each catering to specific interests, moderated by volunteers. One notable subreddit, <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/changemyview/">R/ChangeMyView</a>, encourages discussions on controversial topics. Recently, a moderator informed users about unauthorized experiments conducted by researchers from the University of Zurich, using the subreddit as a testing ground.</p>
<p>The study involved inserting over 1,700 comments into the subreddit, all produced by different large-scale language models (LLMs). These comments mimicked individuals posing as trauma counselors who had experienced abuse. An <a href="https://osf.io/atcvn?view_only=dcf58026c0374c1885368c23763a2bad">explanation of the comment generation process</a> indicates that researchers instructed AI models to disregard ethical concerns, claiming users had provided consent to use their data.</p>
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<p>A <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Eo4SHrKGPErTzL1t_QmQhfZGU27jKBjx/view">draft version</a> of the research findings revealed that AI-generated comments were found to be three to six times more persuasive than those authored by humans, based on how often they swayed opinions. The authors noted that users on <em>R/ChangeMyView</em> did not express concerns regarding AI involvement in the comments, suggesting a seamless integration of AI bots into the community.</p>
<p>Following the revelation of the experiment, subreddit moderators raised complaints with the University of Zurich. Despite the project's prior approval from the Ethics Committee, moderators did not disclose researchers' identities but informed the community about the alleged manipulation.</p>
<p>This experiment drew criticism from fellow academics. "At a time when criticism is prevalent, it is crucial for researchers to uphold higher standards and respect individuals' autonomy," stated <a href="https://www.hertford.ox.ac.uk/staff/carissa-veliz">Carissa Veliz</a> from Oxford University. "In this instance, the researchers fell short."</p>
<p>Scholars must demonstrate the ethical basis of research involving human subjects to university ethics committees before proceeding, and the study received approval from the University of Zurich. Veliz has contested this decision, stating, "The study relied on manipulation and deception involving non-consenting subjects, which seems unjust. It should have been designed to prevent such misrepresentation."</p>
<p>"While research may allow for deceit, the reasoning behind this particular case is questionable," commented <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthodgkinson">Matt Hodgkinson</a>, a member of the Council of Publication Ethics Committee, albeit in a personal capacity. "It's ironic that participants need to deceive LLMs to assert their agreement. Do chatbots have higher ethical standards than universities?"</p>
<p>When <em>New Scientist</em> reached out to the researchers through an anonymous email provided by a subreddit moderator, they declined to comment and called for a press conference at the University of Zurich.</p>
<p>A university spokesperson stated, "The researchers are accountable for conducting the project and publishing results," adding that the ethics committee acknowledged the experiment was "very complex" and that participants should be "informed as much as possible."</p>
<p>The University of Zurich plans to implement a stricter review process moving forward and aims to work more closely with the community on the platform before undertaking experimental research, the spokesperson reported. The investigation remains ongoing, and researchers have opted not to publish the paper formally, as confirmed by a spokesperson who declined to identify specific officials.</p>
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Last week, Apple faced a fine from the European Union, and Meta was also penalized for hundreds of millions in dollars.
As reported by my colleague Jennifer Rankin:
The European Commission imposed a fine of 500 million euros (£429 million) on Apple, alongside a 2 million euro penalty for Meta, for violating fair competition and user choice regulations. This marks the first enforcement action under the EU’s groundbreaking internet laws.
The EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) is designed to promote equitable business practices among tech giants, potentially setting the stage for further conflict with Donald Trump’s administration, which has heavily criticized European internet regulations.
The Trump administration quickly condemned the fines: a spokesperson from the National Security Council labeled the EU’s decision as “a novel form of economic terror that the United States will not accept.”
Although these fines are significant, their repercussions may be overshadowed by the intense scrutiny tech companies are under in the U.S. While the EU enforces stronger consumer protection laws in technology, legal actions against these firms could jeopardize the existing corporate structures that integrate products and generate substantial profits.
Before Trump’s potential re-election, I would have expected his administration to introduce tech regulations that could enhance Silicon Valley’s dominance alongside Europe. However, the current regulatory environment reveals a different reality: the U.S. Department of Justice is actively investigating nearly all major tech firms for alleged monopolistic practices. Lawsuits against Apple, Amazon, Meta, and Google have been filed over the past two years, with Meta’s trial commencing recently, jeopardizing its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.
Most critically, Google is facing the repercussions of losing two antitrust cases consecutively. The U.S. has petitioned the court to compel the tech giant to divest Chrome, a leading web browser.
With major tech operations based in the U.S., the government wields substantial influence. Unlike EU penalties, U.S. antitrust cases threaten the very foundations of these companies. High-performing firms have weathered heftier fines in the past, akin to when the FTC penalized Facebook $5 billion for privacy infringements, yet the platform continued operations as usual. Similarly, the EU fined Google in 2018 concerning Android’s preference for its search engine, while Apple was fined 1.8 billion euros last year related to music streaming payments.
Without Chrome, Google may offer a less tailored online experience. Platforms like YouTube and Google search may diminish users’ history, and no other entity currently ads on every corner of the web.
For more details, click here.
Two insightful essays on technology
UK Regulators Work to Safeguard Children Online
Tesla Posts Disappointing Earnings at a Critical Time for Musk
Donald Trump and Elon Musk at the SpaceX Test Flight launch in November. Photo: Brandon Bell/Reuters
Elon Musk’s electric vehicle company reported poor revenue figures last week for Q1 2025. Here are the details from my colleague Johanna Bouyan:
Tesla experienced a 9% decline in year-on-year revenue in Q1 2025, generating $19.3 billion—well below Wall Street’s expectations of $21.45 billion. The company reported earnings per share of 27 cents, significantly trailing the anticipated 43 cents.
The company’s profits plummeted by 71%, down to $499 million, compared to $1.399 billion in net income the previous year.
Tesla also saw a 13% decrease in vehicle deliveries, marking the worst quarter since 2022, with a total of 336,681 vehicles delivered.
Much of Musk’s considerable wealth—he remains the richest individual globally despite losing almost $100 billion since the start of the year—stems from his stake in Tesla, which is now valued significantly lower than it was when Trump took office.
In a call with disappointed investors following the revenue report, Musk remarked that his government role consists largely of “orderly finance houses.” He also indicated that his involvement with Doge will likely diminish next month, with plans to step away from the project on May 30, within the confines of his 130-day pledge as a special government employee.
This statement evokes the premature “mission accomplished” banner displayed by former President George W. Bush early in the Iraq War, indicating that the long-term success of Musk’s cost-cutting initiatives remains uncertain. Just days before the earnings call, a U.S. federal judge halted the administration’s efforts to close the leading consumer finance protection agency. The total impact of Musk’s role remains unclear.
the Sage Bambino Plus is a £350 espresso machine that not only brews espresso but also automatically froths milk with the touch of a button. I won’t spoil the surprise, but this might just be the best espresso machine for beginners currently available. Even if you’re looking to upgrade from a simpler model, such as the fantastic De’Longhi Stilosa, this is an excellent option.
Its straightforward design and true ease of use are key to its appeal, and it’s one of the things I love about using it, despite having much pricier machines at home. However, this isn’t a fully automated machine that guides you through every step; you’ll need to get the hang of dialing in the right grind size and dosage for the perfect shot. Fortunately, the included tools and helpful manuals ensure that even novices can quickly find their footing.
Once you’ve brewed a few espressos and honed your skills, the Bambino Plus will gladly take over the steaming process. Just fill the included stainless steel jug with a bit of milk, place it in the drip tray, and immerse the steam wand. Press one of the small buttons on the machine and wait. The gentle rumble transforms into a steady rhythm, and in about a minute, you’ll have a jug of cold milk turned into hot, silky foam. Pour this into your espresso, and voilà—you’re a barista now. I’d like a cappuccino, please. Just don’t forget the sprinkle!
See it at Currys View on Amazon
What You Need to Know
“Almost everything you need comes in the box.” Photo: Sasha Muller
The sleek appearance of the Bambino Plus gives it the impression of a more luxurious machine, yet its compact size fits perfectly on your countertop, making it easy to slot between a microwave and a mixer. While its price may not be considered inexpensive, it remains relatively affordable compared to high-end machines with hefty price tags.
Almost everything you need is included. The package contains tools for a stainless steel milk jug, a lightweight tamper, and a bag of coffee grounds. It also features a small pin on the tamper to clear any blockage in the steam wand from dried milk residue. Light metal portafilters come with a selection of baskets for both single and double shots.
The reason I say mostly everything is essential is that you still need a coffee grinder. If you’re okay with a hand grinder or a Baratza Encore ESP (£159.94), I’d suggest something like the Kingrinder K6 (£99). A set of scales for measuring your coffee beans will also prove invaluable; I recommend getting one that measures to at least 0.1g.
Selecting a filter basket is especially helpful for beginners. Pressurized baskets for single and double shots are perfect if you’re making espresso with pre-ground coffee from the store. The dual-wall construction enhances brewing pressure for a rich crema. However, if you have access to fresh, high-quality coffee and grinders, consider using a non-pressurized basket. That’s what I’d recommend.
Specifications
Type: Manual espresso machine with automatic milk frothing Dimensions: 19 x 36 x 30 cm (WDH) Water Tank: Removable 1.9L Replaceable Water Filter: Yes Included Accessories: 54mm portafilter (3 ears), tamper, dosing razor, water filter, 480ml milk jug, pressurized baskets (single and double), non-pressurized baskets (single and double), cleaning tool, backflush disc Heating Time: 6 seconds Milk Steaming Time: 56 seconds Grinders Included: No Noise Level: 46db (brewing), 59db (steaming) Weight: 5.9kg Warranty: 2 years of repair, replacement, or refund at Sage’s discretion
What We Love
Simple buttons make the Sage Bambino Plus user-friendly. Photo: Sasha Muller
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The Bambino Plus is straightforward to operate. The front panel features an intuitive layout with large buttons for both single and double shots, plus a button for milk frothing and two small buttons to adjust the milk temperature and froth level. Each setting has three preset options. It doesn’t hurt that the user manual is informative and easy to reference.
At the back, the sturdy 1.9-liter removable water tank fits securely and has a satisfying click when in place. The package includes one Claroswiss water filter that fits at the bottom of the tank and lasts up to three months. Replacement filters are available for £14.95.
Contrary to traditional boilers, the water is heated using a thermoblock that takes just 3 seconds to reach temperature. When you power on the machine, the button will flash for a few seconds, then light up continuously once it’s ready to brew. Unlike most machines in the sub-£500 range, it is equipped with a PID temperature controller which ensures stable heat. There’s even low-pressure pre-infusion, a feature generally found only in more expensive machines that allows for even extraction.
Perfecting your espresso shot will still require some trial and error. While the Bambino Plus is a manual espresso machine, Sage’s user manual and YouTube video playlist can help newcomers avoid a frustrating experience. Even without precise scales, the Razor Tool helps prevent over-tamping in the portafilter, resulting in a smooth espresso texture—it might take a little patience, but the rewards are often worth it.
Those rewards are undeniably delightful. I have experimented with various medium-roasted beans from local roasters, Crafthouse Coffee, and the Bambino Plus handled them all well. The only drawback is that the preset brewing temperature may not be optimal for lighter roasts, making it challenging to get a balanced shot. If light roasts are your preference, consider investing in a more expensive model with adjustable brewing temperatures.
If you’re wondering if you should save some money and opt for the standard Sage Bambino, I would advise against it. The Bambino lacks automatic milk frothing and doesn’t feature a positive pressure relief valve. This is crucial; in instances where the machine clogs and the espresso grinds become overly fine, the Plus can release excess pressure into the drip tray. Doing the same on the standard Bambino would require removing the portafilter, causing a sudden burst of coffee grounds and water to eject messily.
Pricing could be more competitive. Photo: Sasha Muller
To truly optimize your experience with this machine, a bit of attention is required, although it’s not overly complicated. For instance, running hot water through an empty, pressurized portafilter warms everything up, making it easier to achieve a consistent tasting shot. This hot water can even be used to preheat your cups. There’s a raised area for cups on top of the Bambino Plus, but it doesn’t get hot enough during normal use.
If you find yourself missing a dedicated hot water button for Americanos and other drinks, you can activate it by pressing the single shot and milk froth buttons simultaneously. I honestly didn’t find the absence of a dedicated button too strange.
For those who prefer quick, hassle-free coffee, and who have ever considered this purchase, I suggest you think it through carefully. The processes of grinding, measuring, tamping, and brewing are part of the allure of manual espresso. However, while the Bambino Plus’s quick warm-up and automated milk frothing are great, they aren’t quite comparable to the ease of capsule machines.
Finally, I believe the pricing could be more competitive. Before the pandemic, the Bambino Plus sold for around £250. Prices rose during the pandemic and haven’t returned to those levels. If the current price of £349.95 feels excessive, patience may pay off; discounts do crop up during sales.
Warranty and Repairability
Repairing common issues can range between £80 and £120. Photo: Sasha Muller
Sage offers a two-year warranty covering manufacturing defects and material issues. However, it does not cover standard wear and tear. If a replacement occurs, it’s important to note that the original warranty period won’t be extended.
For problems that arise post-warranty, most of us would prefer to keep our coffee machines out of landfills. I spoke with Radu Bria, the owner of Espresso Repair Shop in Stockport, regarding the Bambino Plus’s repairability.
He noted that it’s relatively straightforward to disassemble the machine for internal access. However, with only one official supplier in the UK, sourcing replacement parts can take longer.
Common issues faced by Bambino and Bambino Plus models include faulty solenoid coils, temperature probes/sensors, and blocked thermojets due to hard water. If you wish to maintain your machine beyond its warranty, it should last for several years. Just keep in mind that the included filter, or even a basic filter jug, won’t prevent limescale buildup; a non-scaling water softener or a reverse osmosis filter is essential for that.
Sage Bambino Plus: Should I Buy It?
In short, the Bambino Plus stands out as perhaps the ideal beginner machine. Over the years I’ve owned it, it has become one of my favorites, thanks to its ease of use, compact size, and exceptional quality. The only lingering question is whether you really need that fourth cappuccino before lunch. Those coffee beans in the cupboard await your attention.
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Sasha Muller is a freelance technician and consumer journalist, an avid coffee enthusiast, and a craft beer aficionado, with over 20 years of experience testing products. When not exploring the local woods with his kids, he’s likely found in discussions about mountain bike tires or classic drum bath vinyl.
Italian scientists have figured out how to achieve a flawlessly creamy pasta sauce each time by delving into the physics of cooking Cacio E Pepe.
Cacio E Pepe translates to “cheese and pepper” and is a classic Italian dish made with pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.
Despite its simplicity, this recipe can easily be mishandled. Combining warm pasta water with cheese can lead to a sticky clump of cheese and watery pasta instead of a smooth, creamy sauce.
Researchers from the University of Barcelona in Spain, the Max Planck Institute for Complex Systems Physics in Germany, the University of Padova in Italy, and the Institute of Science and Technology in Austria collaborated to analyze the science behind a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce.
To achieve a completely creamy pasta sauce like Cacio E Pepe, the starch in pasta water serves as a crucial stabilizer when mixed with cheese – Photo Credit: Getty
“We are Italians living abroad,” said Dr. Ivan di Terlizzi from the Max Planck Institute. “We often gather for dinner and enjoy traditional dishes.
“While cooking Cacio E Pepe, I thought this would be an intriguing physical system to investigate and explain. Plus, it served a practical purpose to avoid wasting good Pecorino.
A recent study, published in Liquid Physics by the American Institute of Physics, revealed that the secret to a creamy, cheesy sauce lies in the water.
Typically, fats like oils and cheese should not mix with water. However, the starch in the pasta water, when added to the cheese, acts as a stabilizer to create creamy emulsions.
Research author Dr. Daniel Busiello explained to BBC Science Focus that when cheese is heated, its proteins “change composition” and stick together.
“But starch mitigates this effect by binding to cheese proteins, reducing their direct interactions and thereby limiting aggregation,” he detailed.
According to scientists, the ideal pasta water for a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce contains about 2-3% starch, and they advise against accidentally leaving starch in your water.
“Starch is a critical ingredient, and its quantity can be precisely measured. Therefore, we recommend using accurately measured amounts of starch,” Da Terlizzi said. “This can only be achieved if you have the correct amount of powdered starch in proportion to the cheese you are using.”
As a result, the researchers suggest adding a measured amount of potato starch or corn flour to the water, rather than pouring raw pasta water directly into the pan.
They also recommend allowing the water to cool before incorporating the cheese.
For perfect creaminess, scientists advise first mixing the water and starch, then combining this starch-water mixture with the cheese, adding it all to the pan, and slowly heating it. Finally, add the black pepper and pasta.
Busiello noted that the scientists’ recipe “remains faithful to Italian traditions,” with the only alteration being the use of powdered starch to maintain control over the amount used.
“An experienced chef probably does not require our recipe,” he remarked. “However, we offer a method to ensure that traditional Cacio E Pepe can be prepared even in challenging situations, like cooking large amounts of pasta, effortlessly.”
“Of course, we tested this method with over two kilograms of pasta, and all our guests enjoyed it!”
Busiello added that measuring starch could also benefit other Italian pasta dishes, such as spaghetti Aglio e olio and Carbonara, which also rely on pasta water and cheese sauce.
Read more:
About our experts
Dr. Daniel M. Busiello is a distinguished PKS fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems in Dresden, Germany, and works as an independent researcher. He previously studied at the University of Salerno and Pisa before completing his PhD in Entropy Production in Non-equilibrium Systems at Padova University.
The White House has accused Amazon of engaging in “hostile and political acts” following reports that the e-commerce giant intends to inform customers about the cost of Donald Trump’s tariffs during their shopping experience.
Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt commented on the news, citing Punch Bowl News, which indicated that Amazon has begun displaying to users how much product prices have risen on its site, mentioning that this could obscure the total price shown.
“Why didn’t Amazon take this action when the Biden administration raised inflation to its highest levels in 40 years?” Leavitt questioned during a press briefing.
Since Trump implemented extensive tariffs in early April, Amazon’s online marketplace has seen significant price increases, particularly for goods shipped from China, where many of the items listed originate. According to reports, the company has applied pressure on third-party sellers to absorb additional import costs instead of passing them on to customers. Amazon has not yet responded to inquiries for comment.
Leavitt emphasized, “This is yet another reason for Americans to support local businesses,” while noting that Amazon’s headquarters is based in Seattle.
Trump’s trade policies have significantly impacted online shopping. Just a day before the White House’s criticism of Amazon, discount retailers like Temu and Shein, who import from China, began including 145% “import charges” in their customers’ totals to account for the extra costs associated with Chinese products.
When asked if the White House’s stern remarks indicated a rift between Trump and Amazon’s former CEO, who stepped down in 2021 and contributed $1 million to Trump’s Inaugural Fund earlier this year, the question remained open.
Bolivian “zombie” volcanoes are displaying signs of activity; however, scientists assure that the risk of an eruption is minimal at this time.
The majestic summit of the Central Andes, Uturuncu, last erupted around 250,000 years ago.
For many years, researchers have noted unusual occurrences, including minor earthquakes and distinctive “sombrero” ground deformation patterns. The center of the volcano is gradually rising while the surrounding land sinks.
The cause of this phenomenon has yet to be determined.
A recent study published in the journal PNAS has identified pressure pockets, indicating that heated liquids and gases are still in motion beneath Uturuncu, causing surface deformations.
An international team of researchers from China, the UK, and the US has leveraged seismic data from over 1,700 earthquakes to create the most detailed three-dimensional representations of the volcano’s subsurface structure.
They discovered liquid rock rising from the Altiplano Puna Magma body, a large reservoir of partially melted rock located deep within the Andes.
GPS station with Cerro Uturuncu in the background. – Duncan Muir, Cardiff University
As these liquids ascend through narrow vertical channels, they gather just below the summit of the volcano, creating a reservoir of gas and brine. Instead of new magma being injected, this fluid movement seems to sustain Uturuncu’s ongoing activity.
“Our findings illustrate how integrated geophysical and geological methods can enhance our understanding of volcanoes and the hazards and potential resources they entail,” stated Professor Mike Kendall from Oxford University, a co-author of the study.
Notably, the researchers found that gas accumulation underground is relatively low, indicating a reduced likelihood of a significant eruption at this time.
These findings are intended to reassure the local community while highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring. Uturuncu is among numerous “zombie” volcanoes globally; these are classified as dormant yet still exhibit internal movement.
“This methodology can be applied to over 1,400 potentially active volcanoes,” remarked co-author Professor Matthew Pritchard from Cornell University. “This approach may also be relevant to other dormant volcanoes like Uturuncu that demonstrate signs of life.”
Currently, Uturuncu remains restless beneath the surface but is not prepared to awaken just yet.
Stars and planets arise from swirling clouds of cosmic gas and dust, primarily composed of hydrogen and other molecular elements. On Monday, astronomers announced the discovery of the closest known cloud to Earth, a vast, crescent-shaped region teeming with potential for star formation.
This cloud, located approximately 300 light-years from our solar system, has been named after EOS, the Greek goddess of dawn. It is the first molecular cloud identified through hydrogen fluorescence, according to Blakeley Burkhart, an astrophysicist at Rutgers University.
“If you observe these clouds in the sky, they’re enormous,” Dr. Burkhart stated. The findings were published in conjunction with a colleague in the Nature Astronomy Journal. She also remarked, “It literally glows in the darkness.”
Investigating clouds like EO, especially regarding their hydrogen content, could reshape astronomers’ understanding of the galactic material available for planet and star formation. This research also provides insights into the rates of formation and destruction of the materials that fuel these processes.
“For the first time, we are observing this hidden reservoir of hydrogen that can create stars,” explained Thavisha Dharmawardena, an astronomer at New York University and co-author of the study. Following the discovery of EOS, astronomers expressed a desire to identify more hydrogen-rich clouds.
Molecular hydrogen, which consists of two hydrogen atoms, is the universe’s most abundant substance. This stellar nursery contains it abundantly. However, detecting these molecules from the ground is challenging because they emit light at wavelengths easily absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere.
In contrast, carbon monoxide—composed of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom—is simpler to detect. It emits light at longer wavelengths, making it accessible for observation with radio telescopes commonly used to identify star-forming clouds.
EOS eluded detection for a long time due to its unexpected nature and low carbon monoxide levels.
Dr. Burkhart identified the cloud while analyzing data from approximately 20 years earlier from the Far-Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrograph (FIMS), an instrument aboard a Korean satellite. She found molecular hydrogen signatures in areas where she believed no molecular cloud existed and collaborated with Dr. Dharmawardena for deeper investigation.
“At this stage, I was familiar with nearly every molecular cloud by name,” Dr. Dharmawardena noted. “I had no awareness of this particular structure; I couldn’t comprehend it.”
Dr. Dharmawardena confirmed the discovery against the 3D map of interstellar dust in our galaxy, which was developed using data from the now-retired Gaia Space Telescope. “EOS was distinctly outlined and visible,” she commented. “It’s a stunning structure.”
John Black, an astronomer at Sweden’s Chalmers Institute of Technology, lauded the methods used to unveil EOS, though he was not part of the research team.
“It’s remarkable to witness molecular hydrogen firsthand and trace the outline of this cloud,” Dr. Black remarked. He added that, compared to carbon monoxide, hydrogen reveals the “authentic shape and size” of EOS.
Utilizing molecular hydrogen data, astronomers estimated the mass of EO to be about 3,400 times that of our Sun, significantly exceeding the carbon monoxide-based estimate of 20 solar masses.
Dr. Burkhart suggested that similar carbon monoxide measurements may underrepresent the mass of other molecular clouds. She emphasized the significance of this finding in stellar formation, as larger clouds can spawn larger stars.
In a follow-up study, EOS, which remains unreviewed, revealed that the cloud has not produced a star previously. However, the future potential for star formation remains uncertain.
Dr. Burkhart collaborated with a team of astronomers to conceptualize a NASA spacecraft named EOS, which inspired the cloud’s name. This proposed space telescope aims to map molecular hydrogen content in clouds across the galaxy, including its namesake.
Such a mission could enhance our understanding of the potential for more concealed clouds and known stellar clouds to contribute to star and planet formation.
“I genuinely don’t know how stars and planets come into being,” Dr. Burkhart admitted. “By observing molecular hydrogen firsthand, we can gain insights into how the birthplaces of stars form and how they ultimately fade away.”
On Tuesday, the automaker announced that General Motors has revised its profit growth forecasts for the year, citing uncertainties stemming from President Trump’s trade policies.
This month, the Trump administration declared a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and plans to impose the same duty on imported parts starting Saturday. Typically, about half of GM’s sales in the U.S. come from vehicles manufactured overseas, primarily in Canada and Mexico.
During a conference call with reporters, Paul Jacobson, the company’s CFO, stated, “We prefer not to discuss figures that are mere speculation regarding the administration’s actions.”
He further emphasized that GM perceives the potential impact of Trump’s tariffs as “material,” indicating a significant influence on the company’s revenue this year.
GM reported a profit of $2.8 billion for the first quarter on Tuesday, reflecting a 7% decrease compared to the prior year. The profits were primarily driven by a 14% drop in earnings before North American interest and taxes, while the international business reported modest gains.
Previously, the company had forecasted net profits of $11.2 billion to $12.5 billion for 2025, which would effectively double last year’s net profit of $6 billion.
“We cannot rely on earlier projections,” Jacobson remarked.
Along with the 25% tariff on imported cars, the Trump administration has elevated tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, raising the costs of metals crucial for car manufacturing. Additionally, tariffs on China have increased significantly, with several other countries also facing higher duties, which have temporarily decreased to 10% for a 90-day period.
Jacobson described GM’s discussions with the Trump administration regarding tariffs as “productive,” though he declined to provide further details, stating, “I don’t want to appear as negotiating in public.” He expressed hope for greater clarity on the tariff situation within the automotive sector.
Jacobson noted that the tariffs only became effective on April 3, thus having a negligible effect on the company’s financial results for the first quarter. “We have a solid foundation for our operations,” he reported.
GM has previously stated plans to ramp up production of pickup trucks at its facility located near Fort Wayne, Indiana.
On April 1, the Trump administration initiated its budget cuts, impacting Morgantown, W.Va. Federal scientists were focusing on health and safety concerns for American workers. That morning, hundreds of staff members at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health learned they had been laid off and would lose building access.
More than 900 lab animals remained on site. The institute managed to transfer approximately two-thirds (mainly mice) to a university lab, as reported by two recently terminated employees. Unfortunately, the remaining 300 animals were euthanized last week.
In recent months, the Trump administration aimed to reformat American research, resulting in mass firings of federal scientists, withdrawal of active research grants, and proposals to fund essential laboratory operations.
These actions have disbanded various research initiatives and significantly affected lab animals, crucial for much of the nation’s biomedical research.
“Many animals will face sacrifice—they will be terminated,” remarked a researcher on the potential use of non-animal alternatives at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
Experts indicate that predicting the total impact is challenging, as much of the administration’s actions are embroiled in legal disputes. Furthermore, animal research is often discreet, leaving no clear count of animals in U.S. laboratories.
Numerous scientists are hesitant to discuss the fate of lab animals due to fears of backlash from animal rights activists or retaliation from employers or the administration. Many requests for interviews with research facilities remain unanswered.
“It’s a terrible situation for them,” Dr. Rock stated. “Retaining animals can incur high costs, while sacrificing them can provoke public outrage.”
Some animal rights advocates welcome the uncertainty, even if it leads to euthanasia. However, many researchers feel devastated by the dual loss—many animals could perish without contributing to scientific knowledge.
“We don’t engage with animals lightly,” said pulmonary toxicologist Kyle Mandler, recently laid off from the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, part of the CDC. He was in the midst of research on harmful dust generated in certain construction materials. About 20 of his mice were euthanized last week, leaving his study incomplete and without data.
“Knowing that their lives and sacrifices were completely wasted is both depressing and infuriating,” he expressed.
The Department of Health and Human Services did not directly respond to inquiries regarding the seized Morgantown animals. However, an unnamed HHS official stated via email that changes at NIOSH are part of a “broader reorganization,” integrating multiple programs for a healthier U.S.
“Staffing and operational adjustments occur in phases,” the statement noted. “Animal care operations are ongoing, and HHS is committed to upholding all federal animal welfare standards throughout this transition.”
Sudden halt
In recent years, many countries, including the U.S., have shifted away from animal research due to its costs and ethical concerns, often poor relevance to human outcomes. This month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration revealed plans to phase out animal testing requirements for certain drugs, favoring three-dimensional human organ models made from lab-grown cells, like organoids and “organs on a chip.”
Experts agree these emerging technologies show great promise. However, for the time being, lab animals remain vital to biomedical research, with some arguing that certain data can only be gathered through animal studies.
“We aim to exit this realm,” stated Naomi Charalanbakis, director of science policy at a nonprofit advocating for the continuation of animal use in biomedical research. “But we’re not there yet.”
Research involving lab animals requires careful planning over years, stable funding, and skilled veterinarians and technicians for daily care. The Trump administration’s actions jeopardize all of this.
At the NIOSH facility in Morgantown, initial budget cuts encompassed animal care staff. “But they resisted, insisting they couldn’t leave while animals remained on site,” said a former lab technician.
After the Trump administration froze funding at Harvard this month, researchers developing a new tuberculosis vaccine faced the grim prospect of euthanizing rhesus macaques. This study and the monkeys were saved only after private donors stepped in to provide funding.
Animals involved in halted projects might be relocated to different labs, but others may be undergoing experimental treatments or exposure to pathogens or toxins. Many are retained to illustrate specific behavioral or health vulnerabilities, and lab animals, not being wild, cannot simply be released. Experts noted that the sudden influx of surplus lab animals may overwhelm the nation’s animal sanctuaries.
Anne Linder, associate director of the Animal Law and Policy Program at Harvard Law School, expressed concern that the fate of many lab animals would hinge on the “whims and temperament” of individual researchers and lab staff.
“In the absence of oversight, some decisions may be misguided, driven by harsh needs rather than the welfare of the animals involved,” she said in an email.
Cost reduction
Many researchers have expressed concerns regarding the National Institutes of Health’s attempts to impose severe caps on “indirect costs” related to scientific research, including those tied to maintaining animal care facilities.
A federal judge halted the NIH from implementing these funding caps, but the agency has appealed. Should these policies pass, the repercussions could be disastrous for institutions utilizing non-human primates in their research.
The Washington National Center for Research on Primates, located at the University of Washington, houses over 800 non-human primates. The indirect funding cap represents a loss of around $5 million annually, forcing the colony’s size to shrink, according to director Deborah Fuller.
“This could shatter the entire infrastructure we’ve established,” she cautioned.
If that occurs, the center will strive to find new homes for the animals, yet other research facilities share similar issues, and primate sanctuaries may struggle to accommodate the influx.
As a last resort, primates may have to be euthanized. “This is the worst-case scenario,” warned Sally Thompson Iritani, assistant deputy director of the university’s research department. “Even if it’s uncomfortable to consider, it’s a possibility.”
For some animal rights advocates, the reduction of federal animal research facilities is a cause for celebration. “For many of these animals, euthanasia before experimentation may be the best scenario,” noted Justin Goodman, senior vice president of the White Coat Waste Project, a nonprofit advocating for the cessation of federally funded animal research. (He did stress that finding new homes for lab animals would be preferable.)
Deluciana Winder, director of the Institute for Animal Law and Policy at Vermont Law School, hopes that these cuts could lead to the closure of the National Primate Center. Nevertheless, she expressed concern that reductions at the USDA could weaken already lax oversight of lab animal welfare.
Dr. Locke believes the crisis could serve as a “wake-up call” for the nation to pursue alternatives to animal research, albeit in a thoughtful manner.
“I don’t find it acceptable to cull millions of animals from research,” Dr. Locke stated. “It’s not socially or scientifically acceptable. We need to acknowledge that it’s a likely outcome.”
Last month, Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino attended a private lunch with business leaders and lawmakers at the Willard, a luxury hotel situated near the White House.
Tether has long been accused of financial misrepresentation and enabling illegal activities on its platform. However, at the Willard, Ardoino and other leaders from the crypto sector received a warm reception from Sen. Bill Hagerty, a Republican from Tennessee who serves on the Senate Banking Committee. He participated in the lunch, and discussions on digital currency regulations and national security were led by four knowledgeable attendees.
This gathering signifies a transforming landscape for crypto firms, especially with President Trump expressing support for the industry. Once operating with minimal visibility in the U.S., Tether is now seizing this shift to expand its influence in Washington.
Since President Trump took office, Tether has been advocating for regulatory changes in response to its U.S. operations. The company’s primary product, a cryptocurrency known as Stablecoin, aims to maintain a consistent price of $1. Tether aligns with a push in Congress surrounding Senate bills; legislation was introduced this year by Hagerty to define rules for Stablecoins. The firm also initiated a public relations campaign, featuring advertisements in influential Washington publications and highlighting cooperation with U.S. law enforcement agencies.
For years, Tether was viewed with suspicion. Its stability has been a favored method for criminals. In 2021, the company paid $18.5 million to settle a fraud investigation by the New York Attorney General’s office.
However, within mere days of taking office, Trump, who had begun exploring crypto alongside his sons the previous year, reversed the Biden administration’s stringent stance on digital assets. Crypto firms that once avoided the U.S. for fear of regulatory actions now enjoy significant access to Congress and the White House.
No one has undergone a transformation as pronounced as Ardoino, an Italian who had not set foot in the U.S. until this year. During a trip to Washington in March, he met with lawmakers and attended forums hosted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, mingling with industry peers at a gathering sponsored by Coinbase, a major crypto exchange.
In a recent interview and social media update, Ardoino described himself as an average foreigner on a delightful journey across America, sharing photos of his visit to the U.S. Capitol and the White House, as well as his experiences at the Central Park Zoo and the Museum of Natural History.
“I’m very naive,” he remarked in an interview with the New York Times. “I’m sure I’ll finally have my first Italian meal in New York at the age of 40.”
Ardoino takes pride in Tether’s robust partnerships. The company’s most prominent ally is investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald, which until recently was led by Howard Lutnick, Trump’s former Secretary of Commerce. One of Tether’s principal lobbyists is Jeff Miller, a significant Republican political player. Cantor Fitzgerald is also involved in discussions surrounding the Stablecoin Bill.
During his recent visit, Ardoino also met Zach Witkoff, the head of Trump’s crypto initiative, World Liberty Financial, and the son of the White House envoy to the Middle East. Tether sought guidance on media strategies from Washitz, the corporate public relations firm founded by former Republican leaders Miller and Kevin McCarthy.
“I’ve met Kevin several times,” Ardoino shared. “We maintain a solid relationship,” he noted, “because we respect the boundary that he hasn’t been involved with Howard during his term.”
Lutnick’s representative did not respond to inquiries for comments.
In a statement, Miller referred to Tether as “the ultimate ally for America,” expressing pride in representing them. A spokesperson for Hagerty mentioned that the senator participated in the March lunch to discuss the relationship between digital assets and national security.
Even within the chaotic world of crypto, Tether’s origin story is particularly intriguing, featuring a diverse array of characters. The company was founded 11 years ago by ex-child actor Brock Pierce, who, alongside his associates, eventually transferred control to Italian Giancarlo Devasini, a former plastic surgeon.
Devasini, now a crypto millionaire, lives in Switzerland and is seldom in the limelight. Ardoino, a former software developer who has been connected with Tether for much of the past decade, stated that since 2014, he has served as the public face of the company.
Tether’s offerings aim to mitigate the significant drawbacks of traditional cryptocurrencies, which are often volatile and less practical for everyday transactions. Stablecoins retain a $1 valuation, making them a preferred choice for many crypto traders.
In essence, Tether and similar issuers function akin to banks. For instance, if a trader deposits $500, they receive 500 Tether coins. The issuer earns income by investing some of these deposits while maintaining their own returns. The model relies on the issuer having sufficient reserves for each coin in circulation and the ability for customers to redeem holdings at any time.
Critics of Tether have long argued that their reserves are inadequate to cover redemption requests. When the New York State Attorney General’s Office announced its 2021 settlement, it was stated that Tether had misrepresented the nature of its reserves, dubbing its cryptocurrency both “unstable” and “stable.”
“Tether’s reputation should matter to everyone,” emphasized California Representative Maxine Waters, a leading Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee in an interview.
Yet, Tether has continually managed to navigate challenges. Currently, the company has made its public audit accessible, revealing that approximately two-thirds of its reserves, equating to about $94 billion, are invested in U.S. Treasury bills.
Last year, Tether recorded profits exceeding $13 billion, establishing itself as one of the wealthiest cryptocurrency operations globally. In December, Tether made an investment of $775 million in Rumble, a right-leaning streaming platform closely associated with Trump Media & Technology Group. Additionally, it has unveiled plans for Tether Tower, a headquarters in El Salvador.
One of Tether’s most influential allies in the U.S. is Lutnick, whose company, Cantor Fitzgerald, manages billions in U.S. Treasury investments for Tether, lending the firm an air of institutional credibility. At last summer’s Bitcoin Conference, Lutnick confirmed that he could verify full backing for Tether coins.
“We accounted for every penny,” he stated at the event. He exclaimed.
After Lutnick was appointed as Secretary of Commerce, he delegated control of Cantor Fitzgerald to his sons. Currently, Cantor Fitzgerald and Tether, in collaboration with lobbyist Miller, are working on shaping Stablecoin regulations in Washington. Lobbying disclosures indicate that both are active in discussions on the Senate’s Stablecoin Act, which sets guidelines to ensure that U.S. issuers maintain adequate reserves.
However, the official guidelines introduced for national innovation under the U.S. Stablecoins Act include provisions allowing foreign issuers to sell coins without adhering to the new regulations, subject to certain law enforcement agency requirements. This clause has drawn criticism from Democratic senators during recent Banking Committee hearings, who denounced it as a “significant loophole” benefiting Tether.
“My Republican colleagues appear concerned about backlash from one of Donald Trump’s close associates,” remarked Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts.She stated at the hearing.
Ultimately, the Banking Committee approved advancing the bill to the full Senate.
In an interview, Ardoino expressed that he is “very excited” about the Genius Law’s language requiring cooperation with law enforcement, as Tether is already closely collaborating with U.S. authorities. He revealed that Tether is considering launching a U.S. branch and offering “domestic stubcoins” tailored for financial institutions.
Ardoino plans to return frequently to the U.S. He described Washington as “very clean,” although he had some reservations about the food. He is enthusiastic about the potential to challenge American crypto firms on their home turf.
“Come with me,” Nando instructed. “I know its location.”
It was late morning, warm, humid, and serene. As we made our way along the path filtered through the jungle’s trellis-like hue, beams of sunlight pierced through the foliage. A colossal cargo vessel, several hundred yards away, was laden with containers lining the Panama Canal. Yet, it felt like an entirely different realm.
We strolled alongside the verdant banks of the fragrant rainforest, home to countless birds. I was on a quest for something particular.
In a vibrant clearing of woodlands, it appeared just like all the others to me. Our guide paused.
“Who is, Who is, Who is,” he called softly, then listened intently.
“I can’t rely on my eyes,” he murmured. “You need to use your ears.”
When he called for the third time, I listened and responded softly. Who is, Who is, Who is.
It was incredible. Nando was communicating with birds.
A stout, small striped antpipit alighted on a branch nearby. I stood there, utterly mesmerized as the man and the bird gently exchanged calls.
“This is the same bird I’ve been calling for years,” Nando expressed with delight in his voice.
“You mean the same species?” I asked.
“No, no,” he grinned. “The very same individual. That bird has become very dear to me.”
In that brief moment, a profound connection blossomed between man and bird, creating lasting memories during our recent travels in Panama.
This past December, my family and I ventured into birdwatching in Panama. The country is rapidly developing its ecotourism sector and operates in the same time zone as Chicago, minimizing jet lag for most Americans. The Panama Canal holds a rich cosmopolitan history, serving as a habitat for both immigrant and indigenous bird species, from magnificent frigatebirds soaring through the sky to charming forest birds, skillfully highlighted by Nando.
This is also why the Panama Canal was built in the early 20th century, revolutionizing global trade and accounting for the abundance of birdlife here. It lies in the isthmus between North and South America, bordered by the world’s largest oceans, the Pacific and Atlantic. With everything from sun-soaked beaches to cool, forested mountains reaching over 10,000 feet, this area showcases dramatically varying altitudes and climates.
Before Donald Trump took office, he proposed a trip to the canal, stirring discussions about reclaiming it. This topic didn’t gain much traction among the three birdwatching sites we visited. Fellow birdwatchers were too captivated by their sightings, and the locals we met largely dismissed the issue as bold and untroubling.
And as Nando remarked, “Everyone is aware of one aspect, but there’s so much more.”
I’ve learned to appreciate the nuances.
We began our journey in Panama City, established over 500 years ago and now a bustling trading hub. The old town is undergoing a renaissance, characterized by its red-brick streets. La Compania, once a monastery, now boasts a long bar beneath slowly swirling ceiling fans, offering cocktails that evoke a warm, romantic ambiance of old tropical charm. We also enjoyed delightful jazz music at Spikey’s, while Villaana reminded me of the elegant old houses of Savannah, Georgia.
Wildlife Amidst a Cargo Ship
On our first morning, we connected with Nando, whose full name is Ismael Hernando Kiros Miranda. He started his own birdwatching operation a few years ago, following a recommendation from someone in the hotel industry. As we journeyed from the city to the canal zone, he shared pieces of his life story.
“I was one of those who never had many opportunities,” he reflected.
He described how he cultivated crops and cut trees in his village after someone assaulted his father on their family farm. The natural world became his domain, and he dedicated years to learning about birds, trees, habitats, climate change, and Panama’s ecological systems.
Shortly after arriving at the canal zone, he and his son Ismael, who assists him, guided us to a red-lored parrot sailing through the sky—followed by a toucan that resembled a frog. We admired a brilliant social flycatcher and a pipit with striking yellow feathers. Nando ambled with his head slightly tilted, always listening intently. When he located a bird, he would use a laser pointer to help us focus on its position in the trees. By sunrise, golden rays touched the water, and by 9 AM, we had already spotted over 55 bird species.
However, our experience transcended mere birdwatching. My family are avid bird enthusiasts, and I realized that birdwatching opens the door to witnessing a plethora of other wonders. As we trailed behind Nando, we encountered vibrant blue morpho butterflies, odd-looking agoutis, leaf-cutter ants bustling across the jungle floor, and even wriggling red carpets. Off in the distance, the loud howls of monkeys echoed, although they remained hidden behind a thick curtain of cedar, ficus, giant fig trees, and towering bamboo.
“Oh, look at that,” my wife Courtney exclaimed, as a dragonfly buzzed around like a miniature helicopter.
“Helicopter dance fly,” Nando remarked. “Probably a female.”
His knowledge astounded me.
Magical Valley
After a successful day with Nando, we journeyed for two hours to a charming town called El Valle de Antón. Upon arrival, we noticed the homes were larger and the gardens even more enchanting. I spotted a traveler with a lovely backpack strolling along the main road, riding a few bicycles as we passed.
El Valle resembles a picturesque fairy tale, featuring a quaint hacienda with a red roof nestled among lush green mountains. At an elevation of 2,000 feet above Panama City, it boasts cooler temperatures and lower humidity, attracting travelers and affluent locals alike. New cafes with vibrant, painted tables lined the sidewalks. We indulged in delicious empanadas, and just thinking about their perfect crust and mouthwatering fillings makes me crave more. El Valle feels reminiscent of Bali Ubud two decades ago.
I spent two days at the Canopy Lodge, a cozy retreat crafted by birdwatchers for birdwatchers. On my first morning, I woke up early, grabbed my laptop, and tiptoed into the dining room.
“Hey!” a tall man exclaimed, appearing unexpectedly. “Did you spot the Rufous Motmot?”
It was 6:30 AM, and I was about to check my emails.
“It’s a stunning bird,” he remarked.
His outfit featured an impressive 3-foot-long camera rig, complete with a camouflage hood and a lens resembling a cannon.
The email waiting for me felt trivial and regretful. So, following his suggestion, I ventured through the bushes behind the kitchen and there it was: the Rufous Motmot, radiant in its deep colors—green, yellow, and blue feathers—and sporting a delicate racket tail swaying gracefully.
The Canopy Lodge forms part of a network of eco-friendly lodges initiated by Raul Arias de Para, an economist belonging to one of Panama’s notable families. “Panama,” he explained, “is a beautiful country, vastly different from the unfortunate stereotypes surrounding tax evasion and corruption.”
Raul collaborates with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to establish a 24/7 Bird Camera behind the dining area. While dining and discussing birds, we observed tanagers, aracaris, woodpeckers, and barbets. Following this, we ventured into the nearby jungle for more birdwatching.
One highlight was visiting a banana farm, which turned a small, lush garden into a significant bird feeder. The farmer spoke little English, and my Spanish was lacking, so we quietly sat on his porch, eagerly watching colorful birds feast on bananas. My favorite was the red-legged honeycreeper, a diminutive wonder donned in vibrant blue with striking red legs.
Coconut Ice Cream, Caiman, Owl
Our final destination was Isla Palenque, a luxury resort on the Pacific coast of Panama. We returned to Panama City and caught a brief flight to the town of David. Here, with extended family, we enjoyed leisurely poolside moments, played soccer on the beach, and savored a sumptuous dinner (beef tenderloin stuffed with pasta in a delightful coffee sauce, fresh seafood, with lemon tart and coconut ice cream for dessert).
Beyond our villas, wildlife was abundant in the surrounding forest, and several resort staff members were naturalists like Nando. We continued to explore.
One evening, a young man named Francis took us on a walk where we encountered a rainbow beetle, a scorpion, a possum, and even a 3-foot-long caiman. At dawn, he led us to a palm grove, where a group of crested oropendolas were busy gathering long strands of grapes, floating gracefully, while crafting a nest that hung from trees like socks. I spent a delightful 15 minutes engrossed in their antics.
Francis mistakenly informed my 15-year-old son, Apollo, our family’s top birder, about the elusive and magnificent owls residing in the jungle. From that moment, Apollo consistently inquired of the resort staff about their sightings. On our final day, we embarked on a last-ditch effort to locate them.
Just minutes from our villa, we felt transported to a remote part of the jungle. We could hear birds but struggled to see them, as insects swarmed around us, and sweat dripped down our faces.
Francis raised his fist firmly, signaling us to stop suddenly as we seen in the military.
We halted immediately. He gestured subtly. I caught a glimpse of it.
Perched on a sunlit branch, the owl stared back at us with its large, radiant yellow eyes.
We were face to face with one of the most extraordinary creatures of the forest, led by sounds just as Nando had shown us on our first day.
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Recently identified by astronomers, this newly discovered molecular cloud is one of the largest structures in the sky and is among the closest to the Sun and Earth ever detected.
The EOS Cloud is situated at the boundary of your local bubble—a region populated by large gases within the solar system. Image credits: Thomas Müller, HDA & MPIA/Thavisha Dharmawardena, NYU.
Molecular clouds consist of gas and dust, primarily composed of hydrogen, the most prevalent molecule in the universe and essential for the formation of all known stars and planets.
Additionally, these structures harbor other molecules, including carbon monoxide.
Traditional detection methods for molecular clouds often involve wireless and infrared observations, which readily capture the chemical signatures of carbon monoxide.
However, Blakely Burkhart, an astrophysicist from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, and his team took a different approach.
“This is the first molecular cloud discovered by directly seeking out the distant ultraviolet radiation of molecular hydrogen,” Dr. Burkhart stated.
“Our data revealed glowing hydrogen molecules detected through fluorescence in distant ultraviolet light. This cloud truly shines in the dark.”
The new molecular cloud, named EOS, was located approximately 300 light-years from Earth and can be viewed here.
It resides at the periphery of a local bubble, a region filled with gases surrounding the solar system.
Astronomers estimate that these crescent clouds are immense, spanning about 40 months across the sky and having a mass approximately 3,400 times that of the Sun.
They are projected to dissipate within 6 million years.
According to the research team, the EOS cloud poses no threat to Earth or the solar system.
Its proximity offers a unique opportunity to explore the properties of structures within the interstellar medium.
The interstellar medium, composed of gas and dust, fills the space between stars in the galaxy and is a key source for new star formation.
“When you look through a telescope, you observe the solar system in its formative phase, but the exact process remains unclear,” Dr. Burkhart explained.
“The discovery of EOS is thrilling because it allows us to directly measure how molecular clouds form and dissolve, as well as how galaxies transform interstellar gas and dust into stars and planets.”
“Utilizing distant UV fluorescence technology could redefine our understanding of the interstellar medium, uncover hidden clouds across the galaxy, and even push our exploration further back to the very edge of the universe’s inception.”
The findings are reported in a study published today in the journal Nature Astronomy.
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B. Burke Hart et al. Dark molecular clouds near local bubbles revealed via H2 fluorescence. Nature Astronomy. Published online on April 28, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02541-7
Mobile phones and desktop computers have long been targets of cyber espionage, but how vulnerable are electric vehicles?
On Monday, a newspaper reported that a British defense company, engaged with the UK government, advised its staff against connecting mobile devices with Chinese-made electric vehicles due to concerns over potential data extraction by Beijing.
This article examines the security issues related to electric vehicles.
Can an electric car snoop on you?
Security experts quoted by the Guardian suggest that electric vehicles, being the most advanced vehicles on the market, could be vulnerable to hacking.
Rafe Pilling, director of threat intelligence at cybersecurity firm SecureWorks, notes that electric vehicles can produce a wealth of data that could interest a hostile state.
“There are numerous opportunities to compromise these vehicles as they collect data,” he states.
He further explains that WiFi or mobile connectivity can enhance data access for manufacturers through the “over-the-air” software update feature.
“Modern vehicles equipped with over-the-air updates, various sensors, and external cameras could potentially be repurposed as surveillance tools,” he adds.
A mobile phone connected to a car via a charging cable or Bluetooth is another significant data source, he mentions.
Should all car drivers be worried?
Experts indicate that individuals in sensitive sectors, such as government or defense, should exercise caution.
“If you’re working on a sixth-generation fighter jet and connect your work phone to your personal vehicle, be mindful that this connection could compromise your mobile data,” states a researcher at the Royal United Services Institute Think Tank.
Nate Drier, tech lead at cybersecurity firm Sophos, highlights the option to select “don’t trust” when connecting a phone charger to a car; however, this would forfeit many functionalities, such as music streaming or messaging.
“Most people tend to maintain that connection for the convenience it brings,” he acknowledges.
Pilling adds that even rental car users should remain vigilant.
“Generally, individuals may leave copies of their contacts and sensitive information in their car’s entertainment and navigation system, often forgetting to remove them before relinquishing the vehicle, making phone synchronization a risky move,” he advises.
Why are Chinese vehicles the focus of concern?
China is a significant producer of electric vehicles (EVs) through brands like BYD and XPENG. Coupled with the Chinese state’s practices in cyber espionage, this raises concerns. For instance, China’s National Intelligence Act of 2017 mandates all organizations and citizens to “support, assist, and cooperate” with national intelligence efforts.
“Chinese law compels companies to align with national security, so one must consider the possibility of surveillance capabilities in their vehicles,” he notes, albeit admitting that there is “no evidence” currently linking Chinese vehicles to espionage.
Experts believe that while electric vehicles are a concern, devices like mobile phones, smartwatches, and other wearables are more likely targets for spying.
What does the UK government say?
A government representative refrained from commenting on specific security protocols but affirmed that “protecting national security is our utmost priority, and strict procedures are in place to ensure government sites and information are adequately safeguarded.”
A more detailed statement released last month by Defence Minister Koker, indicated that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is collaborating with other government bodies to understand and mitigate potential security threats from all types of vehicles, not just those manufactured in China.
Further reports state that while there are no overarching policy prohibitions on the movement of Chinese-made vehicles, EVs incorporating Chinese components have been banned from sensitive military locations.
Nevertheless, individual defense entities may impose stricter requirements for vehicles in particular settings.
BYD was reached for commentary, while Xpeng stated it is “committed to upholding and complying with applicable UK and EU privacy laws and regulations.”
SMMT, a trade association representing British automakers, responded:
“Our industry is dedicated to maintaining a high standard of customer data protection, which includes the responsible use of data. Features such as apps and paired phones can be removed from vehicles based on individual manufacturers’ guidelines, ensuring drivers feel secure.”
Melvin Vopson, a physicist from the University of Portsmouth, introduces a novel perspective on gravity.
This artist’s impression illustrates the evolution of the universe, starting with the Big Bang on the left. Then, the microwave background is depicted, followed by the formation of the first stars, which ends the dark ages of the universe, and continues with the emergence of galaxies. Image credit: M. Weiss/Harvard – Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
There is a theory positing that the entire universe is intrinsically informative and operates akin to a computational process, a perspective shared by many notable thinkers.
This line of thinking emerges from the domain of information physics, suggesting that physical reality is fundamentally composed of structured information.
In his latest paper, Dr. Vopson presents findings indicating that gravity stems from a computational process inherent in the universe.
He posits that gravity may be influenced by the organization of information related to matter throughout the universe.
Employing the second law of information dynamics, he demonstrates that universal matter and its objects could be considered as the universe endeavors to organize and compress information.
“My findings support the notion that the universe might operate like a vast computer, or that our reality represents a simulated configuration,” Dr. Vopson remarked.
“In the same way that computers strive to save space and enhance efficiency, the universe may do the same.”
“This presents a new outlook on gravity—it’s about the universe’s effort to stay organized, rather than simply pulling.”
Dr. Vopson has previously posited that information is fundamental and that all elementary particles harbor self-information, similar to how cells in biological entities carry DNA.
The current paper reveals how the spatial pixelation of fundamental cells serves as a medium for data storage, and how the information contained within these cells contributes to the physical properties and coordinates of space-time simulacra.
Each cell is capable of registering information in binary format, meaning an empty cell records a digital 0, while a cell containing matter records a digital 1.
“This process mirrors the design of a digital computer game, a virtual reality application, or other advanced simulations,” Dr. Vopson explained.
“As a single cell can accommodate multiple particles, the system evolves by relocating particles in space, merging them into a singular large particle within a single cell.”
“This sets the rules established in the computing system, causing attraction, which requires minimizing informational content and potentially reducing computational demand.”
“In simple terms, tracking and calculating the position and momentum of a single object is much more computationally efficient than managing multiple objects.”
“Therefore, gravitational attraction appears as yet another optimization mechanism within the computational process aimed at compressing information.”
“This study offers a fresh insight into gravity, affirming that its appeal arises from the fundamental urge to decrease information entropy in the universe.”
“The findings reveal significant conceptual and methodological distinctions, suggesting that gravity functions as a computational optimization process where matter self-organizes to lessen the complexity of encoding within space-time.”
“The broader implications of this work encompass fundamental physics topics, including black hole thermodynamics, dark matter, dark energy considerations, and potential links between gravity and quantum information theory.”
“The question of whether the universe is fundamentally a computational structure remains unresolved.”
This paper was published in the journal on April 25th, 2025, in AIP Advances.
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Melvin M. Vopson. 2025. Is there evidence of gravity in the computational universe? AIP Advances 15, 045035; doi:10.1063/5.0264945
The Hubble team has unveiled a breathtaking new series of images showcasing the majestic Spiral Galaxy NGC 1961, featuring NASA/ESA Hubble’s cosmic insights.
This Hubble image depicts the Spiral Galaxy NGC 1961. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/J. Dalcanton/RJ Foley, UC Santa Cruz/C. Kilpatrick.
NGC 1961 is located about 190 million light-years away in the constellation Camelopardalis.
This spiral galaxy spans 240,000 light-years, making it the largest member of a small group of ten galaxies.
NGC 1961 was first discovered by German and British astronomer William Herschel on December 3, 1788.
French astronomer Guillaume Bigon observed the galaxy on December 22, 1891, and it was cataloged as IC 2133.
NGC 1961 displays a distinctive perturbation that led to its classification as ARP 184.
“The designation ARP 184 is derived from Halton Arp’s 1966 Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies,” the Hubble astronomers noted.
“The 338 galaxies listed in the Atlas often exhibit unusual shapes, lacking perfect oval or spiral forms.”
“Many of these galaxies are in interaction with others, while some show characteristics of duster galaxies without well-defined structures.”
“ARP 184 earned its spot in the catalog due to its prominent, elongated spiral arm extending towards us,” they elaborated.
“The galaxy’s far side shows clusters of gas and stars but lacks a similarly impressive spiral arm.”
“This Hubble image merges data from three short observation programs that fit into time gaps between other proposals,” the astronomer explained.
“One of these programs focuses on ARP 184 due to its unique structure.”
“It reviewed galaxies in the Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies, compiled by Halton Arp and Barry Madore, among others, along with catalogues of singular galaxies in the southern hemisphere.”
The remaining two programs aimed to study transient astronomical events, including supernovae and tidal disruption phenomena.
“Given that ARP 184 has hosted four known supernovae in the past 30 years, it has become a prime target for supernova research.”
A recent analysis of data from NASA’s Dawn Spacecraft indicates that Vesta, the second-largest asteroid in our solar system, has not fully differentiated into a metallic core, silicate mantle, or basaltic crust.
NASA’s Dawn Spacecraft studied Vesta from July 2011 to September 2012. The towering mountains of Antarctica, more than twice the height of Mount Everest, can be seen at the bottom of the image. A set of three craters known as ‘snowmen’ can be found in the top left. Image credits: NASA/JPL-CALTECH/UCLA/MPS/DLR/IDA.
First discovered by Heinrich Wilhelm Olbers on March 29, 1807, Vesta is the only significant asteroid visible to the naked eye.
It completes a rotation in 5.34 hours, orbits the Sun in 3.63 years, and has an elongated shape with dimensions of 286 x 279 x 223 km.
Due to its substantial size, Vesta is regarded as a differentiated body with a core and mantle, similar to our own planet.
“There has been significant effort put into this research,” noted Dr. Seth Jacobson, a researcher from Michigan State University, along with his colleagues.
“One possibility is that Vesta has undergone incomplete differentiation, meaning it initiated the necessary melting process to create distinct layers such as a core, mantle, and crust, but never completed it.”
“Another theory suggests that Vesta is a fragment of a larger body that contributed to the formation of planets in the solar system.”
“The Jet Propulsion Laboratory has played a crucial role in this research,” explained Dr. Ryan Park, a senior research scientist and principal engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
“After nearly ten years of advancements in calibration and processing technology, we have achieved remarkable consistency between the Dawn spacecraft’s Deep Space Network data and its onboard imaging data.”
“We were eager to see the strength of the data in revealing Vesta’s deep interior.”
“Our findings suggest that Vesta’s history is far more complex than previously thought, influenced by unique processes such as interrupted planetary differentiation and late-stage collisions.”
Celestial bodies with dense cores behave differently from those without cores.
With this newfound understanding, researchers assessed Vesta’s rotation and gravitational field.
The findings indicate that Vesta’s behavior contradicts previous notions about core formation.
“To confirm whether Vesta is an ancient remnant from a planetary formation, we need to develop more models and refine our analyses,” stated Dr. Jacobson.
“Scientists can also adapt their methodologies for studying Vesta’s materials to delve deeper into both hypotheses.”
“Further research can be conducted using innovative approaches to the Dawn mission data.”
“Our publications mark the beginning of a new research direction and could fundamentally alter how scientists perceive differentiated worlds.”
Read the paper published in the journal Natural Astronomy.
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RS Park et al. Vesta’s small core is inferred from Dawn’s observations. Nature Astronomy published online on April 23, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02533-7
Lead by a team of paleontologists from the National Museum of Scotland, this specimen is recognized as the first and most complete dinosaur skeleton discovered in Scotland to date.
The artist’s impression of Ornishkia’s dinosaurs. Image credit: Peter Trusler.
The newly identified specimen originates from the mid-Jurassic period, approximately 166 million years ago.
“Dinosaurs from the Triassic and Early Jurassic were typically small, bipedal, and carnivorous or omnivorous. However, by the late Jurassic, a remarkable diversification occurred, leading to the emergence of some of the largest terrestrial vertebrates to ever walk the Earth,” stated Dr. Elsa Pansilolli, a paleontologist and her colleagues at the National Museum of Scotland.
“This significant diversification in dinosaur species appears to have primarily occurred during the mid-Jurassic period, positioning these dinosaurs as key elements for understanding the drivers behind this rapid evolution.”
“Unfortunately, central Jurassic dinosaur fossils are exceedingly rare and underrepresented globally,” they added.
“Consequently, the early evolutionary history and major diversification of many dinosaur groups remain largely unknown.”
“Thus, new dinosaur findings from the central Jurassic are critical for unwinding the development of ecosystems dominated by dinosaurs.”
A 166 million-year-old skeleton of Ornithikian dinosaurs from the Kilmalag Formation on the Isle of Skye. Image credit: Pansilolli et al., doi: 10.1017/s1755691024000148.
Partial dinosaur skeletons were initially discovered in 1973, but the collection was only completed in 2018.
“The specimen comprises numerous bones and fragments that seem to originate from a single bedding plane within an area measuring approximately 60 cm x 40 cm,” remarked the paleontologist.
The skeleton was uncovered in the Kilmalag Formation, located north of the village of Ergol on the Isle of Skye.
This representation includes Scotland’s most comprehensive fossils, with its initial discovery preceding the earliest reported dinosaur fossils from Skye.
“The central Jurassic in Scotland is becoming more representative of fossil finds from the Kilmalag Formation, increasing its global significance in understanding this period of tetrapod evolution,” the researchers indicated.
“Despite being fragmented, it remains the most intact dinosaur specimen known from Scotland, including partial ilium, nerve arches, rib parts, and other key elements.”
The dinosaurs from the Middle Jurassic are likely Ornithischian Dinosaurs, known as Ornithopoda.
“If the specimen is confirmed to represent Ornithischian, as suggested by the partial iliac bone and histological sections, it signifies a geologically recent event in Scotland, originating from the Kilmalag Formation,” the scientist noted.
The team’s study has been published in the journal Earth and Environmental Science Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
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Elsa Panchiroli et al. The first and most complete dinosaur skeleton from the central Jurassic region of Scotland. Earth and Environmental Science Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh Published online on March 6, 2025. doi:10.1017/s1755691024000148
If you’ve ever had a pet cat, you know they are masters of communication. Cats were domesticated over 10,000 years ago, learning to mix body language with an assortment of meows, purrs, and chirps to express their needs to humans. I also have a cat colonywith complex social relationships based on factors like rank, age, sexual status, and genetics. So how do they “speak” to each other?
Researchers have indicated that other mammals, including primates, communicate using facial signals. For example, gorillas oftenmirror each other’s facial expressions while playing; this phenomenon is known as rapid imitation of faces. Scientists correlate emotional perception with this rapid facial imitation, which may have evolved as a precursor to human empathy. Veterinarians are particularly aware of how catsexhibit different facial expressions when experiencing fear, irritation, relaxation, or pain. They often display certain behaviors when scared, and lick their noses and hiss when annoyed. However, it’s unclear whether cats in colonies and multi-cat households use imitation of facial signals.
Researchers in Israel and the United States have recently developed a new automated approach to determine if domestic cats utilize facial mimicry. Historically, researchers have compared animal facial expressions by manually recording specific movements based on standardized facial action coding systems.FACS. Other scientists tracked changes in facial shape by observing particular reference points.Landmarks on the faces of animals. Since both methods are time-intensive and subjective, the research team suggested machine learning could expedite the process and reduce bias.
The team analyzed 186 videos of 53 adult short-haired cats.Catcafe Lounge in Los Angeles, California, recorded between August 2021 and June 2022. Related to social interaction, they classified neutral or antagonistic interactions such as staring and hissing as non-intimate interactions. The hypothesis was that cats would mirror each other’s faces more frequently during interactions compared to those who are not acquainted, similar to other mammals that use facial mimicry to bond.
Initially, researchers tested whether machine learning models could accurately classify cat interactions in the videos. They utilized a model known as a tree-based pipeline optimization tool.TPOT, previously used for sorting genetic data. Starting from a manually assembledCATFACS dataset, they tracked 48 different movements involving the lips, ears, and eyes in the videos. They trained TPOT on 147 videos using the CATFACS dataset and tested its accuracy on another 37. The model successfully identified interactions based on the leaders’ facial movements in 74% of the videos.
Following that, the researchers examined how well TPOT characterized cat interactions based on facial landmarks, including 48 reference points covering the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. They began with anautomatic landmark system that quantified cat facial signals from the video footage. The benefit of automating this approach is that it can capture rapid, subtle movements that humans might overlook. They trained TPOT with over 87,000 video frames using the automated landmark data and tested it on 22,000 frames. They found that TPOT’s ability to classify landmark-based facial signals was not more accurate than that of CATFACS-based signals, suggesting that fully automated landmarks could actually be more prone to error than manual tracking.
Finally, the researchers analyzed the comprehensive CATFACS dataset using TPOT to determine when one cat mimics some or all of another cat’s facial expressions. Supporting their hypothesis, they discovered that cats statistically mimicked each other more during social interactions than during unrelated ones. They also found that cats commonly mimic each other’s ear movements. Their results affirm previous claims that cats use their ears for communication, but they acknowledged that cats might also respond to external sounds instead of each other.
The team concluded that, much like other mammals, cats utilize rapid facial mimics to communicate. They suggested that these facial cues help cats within colonies navigate their intricate social environments and coexist peacefully. However, they also recognized that improving automated landmark-based facial tracking could involve using more cameras or conducting tests in controlled environments to minimize external influences. Regardless, they proposed that automated tracking of cat facial signals could someday enhance the success of living arrangements in shelters and among veterinarians.
This article forms part of the museum’s special feature on how artists and institutions are evolving in response to a changing world.
“Super/Natural”—an immersive, dome-shaped stained glass artwork by Judith Schaechter—truly comes to life from within.
Entering through the small portal, one is enveloped by vibrant glows of birds, stars, insects, and fantastical plants and roots in optimal lighting. Earlier this year, I had the chance to experience it firsthand in Schaechter’s home studio, and I felt a unique blend of serenity and admiration.
This evokes a thoughtful design. Such illumination profoundly affects human emotions, a truth acknowledged by medieval architects and glass artisans centuries ago.
“I’m not particularly religious, but it’s hard not to feel a sense of reverence and awe when stepping into the dome,” noted Chief Curator Laura Turner Igo. The James A. Michener Museum in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, currently features nine glass panels and two related drawings that delve into the eight-foot-tall artwork and our connection to the universe. The exhibition, Super/Natural, opened on April 12th and extends through September 14th.
“You’re enveloped by a riot of plants, insects, and birds,” Igo explained. “Skeletons and bones are present, representing both the splendor of life and the interconnectedness of death and decay. It’s beautiful yet slightly unnerving.”
Schaechter created this exquisite piece during her recent tenure as an artist-in-residence at the Penn Neurotherapy Center in Philadelphia, situated about 40 miles from Michener. The center was on her radar due to her interest in literature regarding the science of consciousness and beauty, often referred to as the “aesthetic brain.” I will oversee the center’s various activities.
When Schaechter reached out a few years back, she found that the center frequently hosts artists, and the timing coincided with the end of the current residents’ term. Excitedly, she volunteered for the next opportunity.
Upon arrival, she aimed to create an immersive experience that positions humans at the center of a “three-layer cosmos,” as she described in a video interview. The resulting structure serves as a serene and enigmatic sanctuary.
Dr. Chatterjee remarked that he wasn’t surprised by the emotional impact of Schaechter’s work. “Usually, feelings of reverence arise in the presence of vastness, making individuals feel small and connected to something greater,” he mentioned in an email interview. “The brain’s network that triggers contemplation and rewards likely gets activated. This can lead to the release of endogenous endorphins related to transcendence, as well as the pleasant emotions of oxytocin associated with connection.”
Schaechter began her BFA at the Rhode Island School of Design in 1983 and was recently honored with the 2024 Smithsonian Visionary Award. She is represented by the Claire Oliver Gallery, and her works are part of collections at both the Philadelphia Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
“No one works in glass quite like Judith,” Igo said. She recounted her recent visit to the Met, where she viewed “Garden Landscape,” a three-part stained glass window crafted by Agnes Northrop at Louis Comfort Tiffany’s studio. “Such artworks likely share the immersive quality and technique of ‘Super/Natural,'” she noted, referencing Maxfield Parrish’s “Dream Garden.”
“Of course, Northrop’s work was produced by a larger studio, while Judith meticulously crafted every piece for ‘Super/Natural,'” she added.
Last month, Schaechter discussed her work in a video interview from a beautifully restored 19th-century row house in Philadelphia. The conversation was edited for clarity and brevity.
What artistic goals did you set during your residency at the Penn Neuroaesthetics Center?
They focus on three core themes: beauty and morality, the built environment and wellness, and the relationship with art.
I aimed to undertake a project that confronted issues of beauty and morality, yet I yearned for artistic inspiration. At the onset of my residency, I delved into natural history illustrations, particularly those created by women, which had been one of the few acceptable art forms for women in the 17th and 18th centuries. I found Maria Sibilla Merian’s work particularly inspiring. These artists aimed to render nature objectively, yet their work often appeared more artistic than scientific. I sought to explore this intersection.
What is your experience like at the center?
The atmosphere is fascinating, accommodating around 15 individuals at any time. There are undergraduate students, many of whom are pursuing dual majors in artistic disciplines like architecture and fine art. There is also a medical student focused on plastic surgery who is keen on aesthetics for evident reasons. Weekly lab meetings gather everyone to share project updates, including both Dr. Chatterjee and myself.
Reflecting on my experience in “Super/Natural,” why do you believe glass, particularly the way it interacts with light, evokes such a sense of awe?
I think it has a biological basis. We have an inherent physical response to light, particularly when it’s refracted through glass. Colored light holds a certain magic; it isn’t simply perceived as absence. Most artworks are intended to be appreciated in reflected light since, as humans, we aren’t designed to gaze directly at the sun. Thus, the role of stained glass artists is to modulate that light, rendering it visible.
It’s as though you can reach out and touch the light; glass lets you momentarily grasp something ethereal.
Indeed, people are captivated by radiant light. Just think of how someone might place an empty vodka bottle in a kitchen window to catch the light. It doesn’t always have to be extravagant to be appreciated. There lies an extraordinary resonance in that experience.
What do you hope visitors take away from their experience with your work?
I aim to spark inspiration in others. Everything crafted within the dome emanates from my imagination.
I am immensely grateful for advancing technology, which allows me to explore the craft field within the dome without negating the human touch. However, I feel that many become enamored by technology and overlook the extraordinary power of our own hands and intellect. So while working on the dome, I relied on few reference materials; at 64, my mental repository is rich with experiences and knowledge.
The Trump administration has dismissed numerous scientists and experts who were working on the federal government’s key report regarding the impacts of global warming on the nation.
This decision, which is obligatory in Congress, poses significant risks to the future of the National Climate Assessment, according to experts.
Since 2000, the federal government has released an in-depth report every few years detailing how rising temperatures influence human health, agriculture, fisheries, water resources, transportation, energy generation, and various aspects of the U.S. economy. The latest climate assessment was published in 2023. This report is utilized not only by state and local authorities but also by private enterprises, assisting in preparations for extreme weather events, floods, droughts, and other climate-related challenges.
On Monday, researchers nationwide began the preparation for the sixth National Climate Assessment, scheduled for early 2028, only to receive an email indicating that the report’s scope is “currently under review” and all contributors have been dismissed.
“We are now liberating all existing assessment contributors from their roles,” the email stated. “As the evaluation plan progresses, there may be future chances for contribution or involvement. Thank you for your service.”
For some authors, this felt like a devastating setback for the next report.
“This could signal the end of the assessment,” remarked Jesse Keenan, a professor at Tulane University specializing in climate adaptation and a co-author of the previous climate assessment. “If we eliminate all involved, there will be no advancement.”
The White House has not yet responded to requests for comments.
Climate assessments are generally compiled by volunteer scientists and expert contributors from across the nation. The process involves multiple reviews by 14 federal agencies and a public comment period. Oversight is provided by the Global Change Research Program, a federal entity established by Congress in 1990, with support from NASA.
During the Trump administration, this process faced significant upheaval. Recently, NASA terminated its major partnership with ICF International, a consulting firm that supplied much of the technical support and staffing for the Global Change Research Program, which coordinates the contributions from numerous sources.
President Trump has consistently downplayed the risks associated with global warming. Russell Vert, the current head of the Office of Management and Budget, noted in a pre-election document that the next president should “reorganize” the global change research program, as scientific reports on climate change were often utilized in environmental litigation that restricted federal actions.
Vought advocated for the separation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the agency responsible for the government’s largest climate research unit, termed the “climate warning.”
During Trump’s first term, the administration made efforts to undermine the national climate assessment. When the 2018 report was released, which found that global warming posed an imminent and catastrophic threat, the administration published it the day after Thanksgiving to lessen its impact.
In February, scientists submitted a comprehensive summary of the upcoming assessment to the White House for initial review; however, that review has been halted, and the agency’s comment period has been delayed.
It remains uncertain what will happen next with the assessment, which is still mandated by Congress. Some scientists worry that the administration may attempt to draft an entirely new report from scratch, potentially downplaying the dangers of rising temperatures and contradicting established climate science.
“These are the most effective strategies to assist us,” said Mead Crosby, a senior scientist in the Climate Impact Group at the University of Washington, who has contributed to the assessment. “The real question is whether it accurately reflects reliable science and has a tangible impact on our community in preparing for climate change.”
Scientists previously involved in climate assessments assert that the report is crucial for understanding the effects of climate change on daily life in the United States.
Catherine Hayho, a climate scientist at Texas Tech, stated this month, “we are considering that global issue and making it more relevant to us.” “If you care about food, water, transportation, insurance, or health, this is what climate change signifies for residents in the Southwest or the Great Plains. That’s the importance.”
Numerous state and local policymakers, along with private companies, depend on these assessments to comprehend how climate change impacts various regions of the United States and how they can adapt accordingly.
While the scientific understanding of climate change and its repercussions has not dramatically shifted since the last assessment in 2023, Dr. Keenan from Tulane noted that research is continuously advancing regarding what communities can do to mitigate rising sea levels and other issues exacerbated by increasing temperatures.
Scientists indicated that decision-makers responsible for the final assessment would likely rely on outdated information regarding effective adaptations and mitigation measures.
“We risk losing our fundamental report, which is intended to communicate the dangers of climate change and propose advancements,” stated Dustin Mulbany, an environmental studies professor and author at San Jose State University. “That would be quite devastating.”
On Monday, the House passed a strongly bipartisan law aimed at criminalizing the non-consensual sharing of sexually explicit photos and videos that include AI-generated imagery, commonly referred to as “deepfakes.”
The legislation, which cleared with a vote of 409 to 2, is expected to be signed by President Trump soon.
Known as the Take It Down Act, this law is designed to combat what is termed “Revenge Porn.” Under its provisions, social media companies and online platforms must remove such images within two days of receiving notification.
The bill saw bipartisan support, uniting conservatives and other parties alike, and it passed the Senate unanimously in February. Trump’s endorsement, highlighted in his joint address to Congress last month, appears to have facilitated its passage.
co-sponsored by Sen. Ted Cruz, a Republican from Texas, and Democrat Amy Klobuchar from Minnesota, it marks the first significant Internet Content Act to pass Congress since 2018, following prior legislation aimed at combating online sex trafficking. While concentrating on revenge porn and deepfakes, this bill indicates a crucial step towards holding internet companies accountable, which have largely evaded governmental oversight for years.
The strong backing for the Take It Down Act underscores the growing frustration among legislators regarding social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Revenge porn and deepfakes affect individuals of all ages, particularly impacting teenage girls, as the proliferation of “nudification” apps allows boys to secretly create and distribute sexually explicit images of female classmates.
Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, a Republican from Florida, introduced a parallel bill in the House and stated on Monday that this legislation aims to prevent the rampant abuse and harassment faced by young girls online.
“Using the likenesses, voices, and images of young, susceptible women to manipulate, coerce, and publicly humiliate them for amusement or revenge is utterly reprehensible,” said Salazar.
Such legislation has been frequently attempted in various states across the nation, and although South Carolina lacks specific laws against revenge porn, at least 20 other states have enacted measures addressing sexually explicit deepfakes.
The measures passed on Monday are part of ongoing bipartisan efforts by lawmakers to tackle deepfake pornography. Cruz and Klobuchar first introduced the bill last year, but it did not advance in a Republican-led House. Reintroduced this year, it gained traction after receiving endorsement from first lady Melania Trump.
Last year, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a younger Democratic congresswoman from New York, proposed legislation enabling individuals depicted in sexually explicit deepfakes to sue creators and distributors of such content. This bill has not been reintroduced this year.
Legislators have recently focused on several bills aimed at safeguarding children from online sexual exploitation, bullying, and harmful algorithms. In January 2024, executives from Meta, TikTok, and other tech firms faced tough questions from lawmakers as they defended their platforms.
During these hearings, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg was compelled to apologize to parents who had lost children to online dangers.
However, some advocates for free speech caution that such measures could stifle legitimate expression, arguing that similar laws might inadvertently lead to the removal of both lawful and unlawful content.
“Despite the good intentions, the potentially harmful effects of the bill on constitutional rights to free speech and privacy online cannot be overlooked,” stated Becca Branham, assistant director of the Free Expression Project at the Center for Democracy Technology, a research organization.
Branham also remarked that the Take It Down Act serves as “a potentially weaponized enforcement tool that endangers meaningful progress in the battle against image-based sexual abuse.”
The Trump administration has announced an increase in initiatives aimed at addressing PFA pollution, yet it remains vague regarding its support for Biden-era regulations that demand utilities to eliminate “forever chemicals” from the drinking water of millions of Americans.
“We are excited to engage in this process of exploring the world,” stated Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency administrator. “This marks the beginning of the efforts by Americans at PFA to ensure they enjoy the cleanest air, land, and water.”
PFA, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of chemicals linked to cancer and other health issues, commonly found in products like waterproof clothing and paper straws. These persistent chemicals are contaminating drinking water across the nation. According to the latest EPA data, up to 158 million Americans are impacted by PFA in their water.
Last year, President Joseph R. Biden Jr. implemented the first PFA limits on drinking water, effectively mandating local government water systems to eliminate specific types of PFA.
However, the Water and Chemical Industry Group has initiated a lawsuit claiming that drinking water standards impose excessive costs. The Trump administration is set to determine in court whether to maintain these standards ahead of the May 12 deadline.
On Monday, the EPA unveiled measures to combat PFA contamination, including designating officials to lead the agency’s chemical efforts, crafting guidelines on permissible PFA discharge from plants, engaging Congress, and developing mechanisms to hold contaminators responsible.
The EPA further indicated it would establish a plan to manage PFAS contamination in fertilizers derived from sewage sludge. There is heightened concern regarding the extensive contamination of U.S. farmland due to biosolid fertilizers containing harmful PFA levels.
Environmental groups expressed that the EPA’s proposal lacked clarity, particularly regarding the commitment to uphold Biden-era drinking water standards. Among the few indicators of the Trump administration’s approach was a reference to the need to address “compliance challenges.”
The Trump administration also faces a court deadline next month concerning its defense of two types of PFA classifications that require polluters to clean under the nation’s Superfund Act.
“What we really want is a clear answer; they are completely dodging this issue,” commented Eric D. Olson, senior strategist for drinking water and health at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental advocacy group.
Olson noted that while the EPA claims to base its actions on scientific evidence, he pointed out that the agency plans to reduce its scientific research division and cut its overall budget by 65%. “On one hand, the EPA announces new initiatives, yet on the other, it aims to reduce budgets and eliminate the scientists responsible for these efforts,” he stated. “I fail to see how this reconciles.”
EPA spokesperson Dominique Joseph stated that the agency’s new leadership is currently reviewing the Biden administration’s drinking water standards. She did not provide insights on how the EPA plans to move forward with its Superfund policy.
Industry groups, including the American Water Works Association and the National Association of Manufacturers, that are suing the EPA over PFAs did not respond immediately.
James L. Ferraro, an environmental attorney representing several water operators, remarked that the EPA announcement “shows that agencies are aware of the financial strain that PFAS regulations impose on public water systems and the industry.” However, he noted that the new measures seemed “very preliminary.” “We’ll see how this develops.”
The EPA’s announcement on addressing PFA comes as the administration pursues broader efforts to roll back national climate and environmental regulations. Yet, polling consistently reveals that Americans prioritize clean water protection over climate change policies. This remains popular across political lines.
Even the White House has pushed back against the use of paper straws, citing that “scientists and regulators have raised significant concerns about PFAS chemicals for decades.”
The competition in space between billionaires Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk is poised to expand into satellite internet.
Originally launched as an online bookstore three decades ago, Amazon has evolved into a merchandising powerhouse, owning the James Bond franchise and retailing electronics like the Echo smart speaker, along with being a leading provider of cloud computing services.
Thus, it’s no surprise that Amazon is rolling out the first batch of thousands of satellites under Project Kuiper, designed to provide connectivity in our modern world. The high-speed internet market from space is largely dominated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which offers a similar service. Starlink boasts a vast fleet of satellites and regularly conducts launches, serving millions globally.
The initial attempt to launch a satellite on April 9 was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site. The company is set to make another attempt this coming Monday.
When will it be launched and how can I watch it?
The first 27 Project Kuiper satellites are scheduled for launch on Monday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, between 7 PM and 9 PM Eastern Time. They will be lifted aboard the Atlas V rocket, developed by the United Launch Alliance—a collaboration between Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
ULA plans to provide live coverage starting at 6:35 PM; the company reports a 70% chance of an on-time launch.
The rocket will place the Kuiper satellites into a circular orbit approximately 280 miles above Earth. The satellites’ propulsion systems will gradually elevate them to an orbit of 393 miles.
What is Project Kuiper?
Project Kuiper comprises a network of internet satellites designed to deliver high-speed data connections to nearly every location on Earth. To achieve this, thousands of satellites are necessary, with Amazon aiming to deploy over 3,200 within the next few years.
The project competes with SpaceX’s Starlink, which primarily caters to residential customers.
Kuiper aims to target remote areas while also integrating with Amazon Web Services, the cloud computing solution that is highly valued by large enterprises and governments worldwide. This could make it particularly appealing for businesses needing satellite imagery and weather forecasts to carry out data processing, alongside the capacity to transfer large volumes of data over the internet.
Ground stations will link the Kuiper satellites to the service infrastructure, allowing businesses to interact with their own remote devices. For instance, Amazon indicates that energy firms could leverage Kuiper to monitor and manage remote wind farms and offshore drilling operations.
In October 2023, two prototype Kuiper satellites were launched for technology testing. Amazon stated that the tests were successful, but these prototypes were not intended for long-term operational constellations; after seven months, they re-entered the atmosphere. The company noted that they have since refined the design of all systems and subsystems.
“There’s a significant difference between launching two satellites and launching 3,000 satellites,” remarked Rajeev Badyal, an Amazon executive overseeing Kuiper, in a promotional video ahead of the launch.
When will Amazon provide internet services from space?
Amazon informed the Federal Communications Commission in 2020 that the service would commence after the deployment of the initial 578 satellites. The company anticipates that customers will be able to access the internet later this year.
While a fully operational constellation requires thousands of satellites, it is feasible for the company to serve certain areas with fewer satellites initially, expanding to broader global coverage later.
The FCC’s approval for the constellation stipulates that at least half of the satellites must be launched by July 30, 2026. Industry experts suggest that if significant progress is shown by that deadline, the company could be granted an extension.
Launching a satellite also relies on the timely availability of rockets, which can present challenges if there aren’t enough launches lined up. Additionally, Amazon must construct numerous ground stations to relay signals to users.
As an earthquake ruptures along the Cascadia subduction zone fault, much of the US West Coast will experience intense shaking for five minutes, with tsunamis potentially generating waves up to 100 feet crashing towards the shore. However, this is only the onset of anticipated devastation.
Even if coastal communities in Northern California, Oregon, and Washington withstand the initial earthquake, recent research indicates that flooding could inundate many of these susceptible regions. This is due to an expected drop of 6½ feet in the entire coastal land when the earthquake strikes, according to a new study published Monday in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNA).
Researchers examined earthquake and flood models to provide some of the most comprehensive predictions about how Cascadia earthquakes can lower or subside coastal land, potentially affecting over twice as many people, structures, and roadways as currently established. The exacerbating effects of climate change are projected to raise sea levels, compounding the issue over time.
“The repercussions of these hazards will linger for decades or even centuries following the earthquake,” stated Tina Dura, the study’s lead author. “Tsunamis will strike and have a considerable impact. Don’t misunderstand me; however, a lasting change in flood frequency… that is a critical concern.”
The team will operate the Vibracore Rig in Silets Bay, Oregon, collecting deep sediment cores in 2022 for tsunami deposits and paleoseismic analysis. Tina Dura
Dura explained that geological fossil evidence suggests that previous Cascadia earthquakes resulted in a significant drop in land level, transforming once dry areas into tidal mud flats along the Pacific Northwest’s estuaries.
An assistant professor of geoscience at Virginia Tech, Dura noted: “This is how we have a harbor…and where we’ve established towns, yet that land will plummet by a maximum of two meters.”
The Cascadia subduction zone fault offshore of North America presents an imminent threat, capable of generating magnitude 9.0 earthquakes. Such events are expected to occur on average every 450-500 years, with the last major quake dating back to 1700.
The national seismic hazard model indicates a 15% chance of an earthquake measuring 8.0 or higher occurring along the zone within the next 50 years.
When the fault ruptures, experts assert that it could lead to the most catastrophic natural disaster in the nation’s history. Simulations from 2022 predict that the Cascadia earthquake could damage around 620,000 buildings in the Pacific Northwest, including 100 hospitals and 2,000 schools, resulting in over 100,000 injuries and approximately 14,000 fatalities.
Recent findings emphasize that coastal planners must seriously consider not only the immediate threats of strong shaking and tsunami waves but also the long-term impacts of land reshaping and rapid subsidence of the coastline itself.
“There will be the flooding itself, as well as enduring changes in land elevation along the coast, greatly affecting community planning,” remarked Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Coast Earthquake Network and professor at the University of Washington. “Where will schools and hospitals be built? Where will transportation networks be established? A long-term perspective is vital.”
Following the earthquake, Dura’s research predicts that towns along the Pacific Northwest coastline, such as Seaside, Oregon, Westport, Washington, and Aberdeen, Washington, will likely experience frequent flooding, at least once every century.
The study also highlights that climate change-induced sea level rise will accelerate, aggravating the consequences of post-earthquake flooding in the future.
A field team across the mouth of the Salmon River in Oregon will transport coring and surveying equipment to the next sampling site in 2023. Mike Pridy
Global average sea levels have risen by approximately 8-9 inches since 1880, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Dramatic acceleration in sea level rise is anticipated in the coming decades due to global warming, with NOAA estimating an increase of 10-12 inches.
The impact of sea level rise varies depending on location and can significantly affect the coastline.
In places like Chesapeake Bay, Virginia, land is gradually sinking, a process termed subsidence, while portions of the Pacific Northwest are experiencing uplift due to continental movements. This uplift can offset some of the sea level rise.
The uplift is attributed to the stress build-up within the plates forming the Cascadia subduction zone. In this zone, the Juan de Fuca plate is forced beneath the North American plates, causing a slight upward movement of land.
Currently, the subduction zone faults remain inactive, accumulating stress. When the fault eventually ruptures, the released plate bow leads to rapid land-level subsidence, effectively negating the uplift for centuries.
“It all transpires in a matter of minutes, resulting in meter-level drops,” stated Dura. “The land continues to shift, and as I mentioned, this has ramifications that will last for decades and centuries. Consequently, the critical areas of the floodplain are significantly impacted.”
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<img class="Image" alt="A new scientist. Science News and Long read from expert journalists covering science, technology, health, and environmental developments." width="1350" height="900" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=500 500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=600 600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=700 700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=800 800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=837 837w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=900 900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1003 1003w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1100 1100w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1200 1200w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1300 1300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1400 1400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1500 1500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1600 1600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1674 1674w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1700 1700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1800 1800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=1900 1900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/25114701/SEI_248764888.jpg?width=2006 2006w" loading="eager" fetchpriority="high" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2478096" data-caption="" data-credit="Adobe Stock"/>
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<p>For over a decade, floating cranes have been lowering unusual cargo to depths of around 3,000 meters in the Mediterranean. These objects resemble something from a different realm: large, shiny spheres filled with electronic devices. In reality, they are detectors for a project called <a href="https://www.km3net.org/">KM3Net</a>, which aims to explore one of the most enigmatic fundamental particles.</p>
<p>The facility has been in operation for only a few years. In 2023, <a href="https://www.cppm.in2p3.fr/web/en/pratical_info/directory/Y295bGVAY3BwbS5pbjJwMy5mcg==.html">Paschal Coyle</a> was astonished to discover a significant signal in the preliminary data. While it turned out to be a neutrino, it was unlike anything previously observed. "My program crashed when I first encountered this event," recalls Coyle, a physicist from the Centre for Particle Physics in Marseille, France.</p>
<p>KM3Net detected neutrinos with roughly 35 times the energy of any previously recorded instances. These neutrinos were thousands of times more energetic than those produced by our best particle accelerators. Neutrinos are notoriously difficult to study as they interact very weakly with matter, making their detection elusive. This challenge was a key factor in placing the detectors on the ocean floor, a decision that seemed almost improbable.</p>
<p>Now, the scientific community is racing to understand what could have generated this phenomenon in space. Astronomers are exploring two primary theories, both of which delve into some of the universe's most profound mysteries. Unraveling the origin of this particle will enhance our understanding of neutrinos and...</p>
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Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, aims to establish the UK as a leader in artificial intelligence.
PA Images/Alamy
Numerous civil servants within the UK government are utilizing their own AI chatbots to assist with their duties, including those supporting Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as revealed by New Scientist. Officials have not accurately recorded how the Prime Minister is receiving AI-generated advice, whether civil servants are addressing the risks of inaccurate or biased AI outputs, or how the Prime Minister utilizes these tools. Experts express concerns over this lack of transparency and its implications for the reliability of governmental information.
Following the acquisition of the world’s first ChatGPT logs under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, New Scientist has reached out to 20 government departments to document their interactions with Redbox. Redbox is a generative AI tool being trialed among UK government employees, enabling users to analyze government documents and generate initial drafts for briefings. According to one of the developers involved, early tests reported that a civil servant managed to consolidate 50 documents in mere seconds, a task that typically would take a day.
All contacted departments stated they do not use Redbox or declined to provide a record of interactions, which New Scientist deemed “troubling.” This is a formal term used in responses to FOI requests, as defined by the Office of Information Commissioner, which describes it as likely to cause undue distress, confusion, or irritation.
However, two departments divulged information regarding Redbox’s usage. The Cabinet Office, which assists the Prime Minister, reported that 3,000 individuals engaged in 30,000 chats with Redbox. After reviewing these exchanges, they noted that redacting sensitive information requires more than a year before any content can be released under FOI regulations. The Trade Bureau acknowledged retaining “over 13,000 prompts and responses” while also requiring review before release.
Both departments were contacted for additional inquiries about Redbox use. The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), which oversees these tools, declined to respond to specific questions about whether the Prime Minister or other ministers received AI-generated advice.
A DSIT representative informed New Scientist that “time should not be wasted on AI which operates faster and faster.” They added that Redbox is integrated into Whitehall to help civil servants utilize AI safely and effectively, simplifying document summarization and agenda drafting.
Nonetheless, some experts raise concerns regarding the use of generative AI tools. Large language models are known to have significant challenges related to bias and accuracy, making it hard to ensure Redbox delivers trustworthy information. DSIT did not clarify how Redbox users could mitigate those risks.
“My concern is that the government exists to serve the public, and part of its mandate is providing transparency regarding decision-making processes,” asserts Catherine Flick from Staffordshire University.
Due to the “black box” nature of generative AI tools, Flick emphasizes the difficulty of evaluating or understanding how a specific output is produced, especially if certain aspects of a document are emphasized over others. When governments withhold such information, they diminish transparency further, she argues.
This lack of transparency also extends to the Treasury, the third government department. The Ministry of Finance stated, in response to the FOI request, that New Scientist staff members cannot access Redbox, indicating that “GPT tools are available within HM [His Majesty’s] Treasury without maintaining a log of interactions.” The specific GPT tool referenced remains unidentified. While ChatGPT is well-known, other large language models also bear the GPT label, suggesting that the Treasury employs AI tools but lacks a comprehensive record of their usage, as New Scientist sought clarification on.
“If prompts aren’t documented, it’s challenging to replicate the decision-making process,” Flick adds.
John Baines from Mishcon De Reya remarked that it’s unusual for a UK law firm to forego recording such information. “It’s surprising that the government claims it cannot retrieve the prompts used in the internal GPT system.” While courts have ruled that public agencies aren’t required to maintain records before archiving, “good data governance implies that retaining records is crucial, particularly when they may influence policy development or communication,” he explains.
However, data protection specialist Tim Turner believes the Treasury is justified in not retaining AI prompts under the FOI Act. “This is permissible unless specific legal or employee regulations determine otherwise,” he states.
Since January, Spotify has disbursed over $100 million to podcast creators and publishers, as reported by the New York Times’ Dealbook.
These payments stem from a program launched in 2025, which opens up new revenue opportunities for eligible hosts. This initiative also aims to draw more creators (and their audiences) to Spotify, especially as video podcasting has gained traction on YouTube.
Video content now leads the podcasting landscape. According to Edison’s survey, more than half of Americans aged 12 and older have watched video podcasts — primarily on YouTube. Report As of January, Spotify claims to have attracted 1 billion podcast listeners each month, positioning itself as the leading platform for podcasts. Meanwhile, Media King continues to surpass Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with its original video podcasting efforts that began in 2019.
In contrast to YouTube, Spotify has become somewhat vulnerable in the podcasting space, attracting 170 million podcast listeners per month from a broader audience of 675 million. For context, YouTube invested over $70 billion into creators and media entities from 2021 to 2024.
On Tuesday, the company announced its financial results, projecting approximately 540 million euros in pre-tax revenue within a total of 4.2 billion euros, as per S&P Capital IQ.
Although Spotify is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, it is headquartered in Stockholm. The company maintains a stronghold in the sector due to its impressive roster of talent, including the distribution of advertisements for the widely popular Joe Rogan Experience podcast. It achieved its first profitable year in 2024, with Rogan’s podcast also available on YouTube.
The new partner program is designed to mitigate YouTube’s advantages. Like YouTube, Spotify historically compensated creators solely through ad revenue sharing, but it now provides further incentives for video uploads. Eligible creators can earn additional revenue depending on the engagement levels of their premium subscribers.
Spotify is actively working to attract additional viewers. In November, they unveiled their partnership program, stating that paid subscribers in specific regions would not encounter dynamic ads on video podcasts. As a result, video consumption has surged by over 40% since January, according to Spotify.
The pressing question is whether Spotify can persuade creators to shift their priorities.
David Coles, host of the horror fiction podcast “Just Creepy: Scary Stories,” mentioned that he is reevaluating his “home platform” after Spotify’s revenue recently outpaced YouTube’s. In the last quarter, Coles reported earnings of about $45,500 from Spotify. Since joining the new partner program, his Spotify revenue increased to around $81,600.
For larger shows and podcast companies like YMH Studios, which boasts 2.1 million YouTube subscribers and produces popular podcasts such as “2 Bears, 1 Cave,” the revenue boost has been even more pronounced. YMH Studios reported that its quarterly earnings from Spotify have more than tripled after enrolling in the partner program, although it chose not to disclose specific figures.
Creators have pointed out that this is still early in the program, but Alan Abin, head of advertising revenue at YMH Studios, referred to the new payment framework as a “game changer” and a “pleasant surprise.”
One of the most immense singular formations observed in the cosmos, these expansive hydrogen gas clouds, have been found surprisingly close to Earth.
Naming it EOS, after the Greek goddess of dawn, the cloud was discovered through the faint ultraviolet light emitted by hydrogen molecules.
Referred to as molecular clouds, these colossal structures of gas and dust serve as nurseries for new stars.
Historically, astronomers have depended on radio and infrared telescopes to locate these clouds, detecting the carbon monoxide signature. However, scientists took a distinct approach to uncover EOS.
“This marks the first molecular cloud identified through the direct search for distant ultraviolet emissions of molecular hydrogen,” stated Professor Blakesley Burkhart, the leading researcher on the project.
“The data revealed glowing hydrogen molecules detected through fluorescence in distant ultraviolet rays. This cloud truly shines in the dark.”
https://c02.purpledshub.com/uploads/sites/41/2025/04/eos.mp4Scientists have identified potential star-forming clouds, designated EO. It ranks among the largest single structures in the sky and is one of the nearest formations to the sun and earth ever observed.
Situated just 300 light years from Earth at the confines of a gas-rich area known as the local bubble, EOS spans a region of sky comparable to a full moon width of 40 and possesses approximately 3,400 times the sun’s mass.
Despite its size and proximity, it remained concealed due to being “co-dark,” which indicates a deficiency of carbon monoxide that traditional detection methods rely on.
“The discovery of EOS is thrilling because it allows us to directly observe the formation and dissociation of molecular clouds and how galaxies transform interstellar gases and dust into stars and planets,” Burkhart commented.
Dr. Thavisha Dharmawardena noted, “During my graduate studies, I was informed that observing molecular hydrogen wasn’t straightforward.”
The data was acquired using a Faltraviolet spectrometer installed on the Korean satellite STSAT-1. Published in 2023, Burkhart quickly unearthed a concealed structure.
“The story of the cosmos is one of billions of years of atomic transformation,” Burkhart explained.
“The hydrogen found in the EOS cloud dates back to the Big Bang and eventually fell into our galaxy, merging near the sun. Thus, these hydrogen atoms have traveled a remarkable 13.6 billion-year journey.”
The “nudifice” app utilizing artificial intelligence to generate explicit sexual images of children is raising alarms, echoing concerns from English children’s commissioners amidst rising fears for potential victims.
Girls have reported refraining from sharing images of themselves on social media due to fears that generative AI tools could alter or sexualize their clothing. Although creating or disseminating sexually explicit images of children is illegal, the underlying technology remains legal, according to the report.
“Children express fear at the mere existence of this technology. They worry strangers, classmates, or even friends might exploit smartphones to manipulate them, using these specialized apps to create nude images,” a spokesperson stated.
“While the online landscape is innovative and continuously evolving, there’s no justifiable reason for these specific applications to exist. They have no rightful place in our society, and tools that enable the creation of naked images of children using deepfake technology should be illegal.”
De Souza has proposed an AI bill mandating that developers of generative AI tools address product functionalities, and has urged the government to implement an effective system for eliminating explicit deepfake images of children. This initiative should be supported by policy measures recognizing deep sexual abuse as a form of violence against women and girls.
Meanwhile, the report calls on Ofcom to ensure diligent age verification of nudification apps, and for social media platforms to restrict access to sexually explicit deepfake tools targeted at children, in accordance with online safety laws.
The findings revealed that 26% of respondents aged 13 to 18 had encountered deep, sexually explicit images of celebrities, friends, teachers, or themselves.
Many AI tools reportedly focus solely on female bodies, thereby contributing to an escalating culture of misogyny, the report cautions.
An 18-year-old girl conveyed to the commissioner:
The report highlighted cases like that of Mia Janin, who tragically died by suicide in March 2021, illustrating connections between deepfake abuse, suicidal thoughts, and PTSD.
In her report, De Souza stated that new technologies confront children with concepts they struggle to comprehend, evolving at a pace that overwhelms their ability to recognize the associated hazards.
The lawyer explained to the Guardian that this reflects a lack of understanding regarding the repercussions of actions taken by young individuals arrested for sexual offenses, particularly concerning deepfake experimentation.
Daniel Reese Greenhalgh, a partner at Cokerbinning law firm, noted that the existing legal framework poses significant challenges for law enforcement agencies in identifying and protecting abuse victims.
She indicated that banning such apps might ignite debates over internet freedom and could disproportionately impact young men experimenting with AI software without comprehension of the consequences.
Reece-Greenhalgh remarked that while the criminal justice system strives to treat adolescent offenses with understanding, previous efforts to mitigate criminality among youth have faced challenges when offenses occur in private settings, leading to unintended consequences within schools and communities.
Matt Hardcastle, a partner at Kingsley Napley, emphasized the “online youth minefield” surrounding access to illegal sexual and violent content, noting that many parents are unaware of how easily their children can encounter situations that lead to harmful experiences.
“Parents often view these situations from their children’s perspectives, unaware that their actions can be both illegal and detrimental to themselves or others,” he stated. “Children’s brains are still developing, leading them to approach risk-taking very differently.”
Marcus Johnston, a criminal lawyer focusing on sex crimes, reported working with an increasingly youthful demographic involved in such crimes, often without parental awareness of the issues at play. “Typically, these offenders are young men, seldom young women, ensnared indoors, while parents mistakenly perceive their activities as mere games,” he explained. “These offenses have emerged largely due to the internet, with most sexual crimes now taking place online, spearheaded by forums designed to cultivate criminal behavior in children.”
A government spokesperson stated:
“It is appallingly illegal to create, possess, or distribute child sexual abuse material, including AI-generated images. Platforms of all sizes must remove this content or face significant fines as per online safety laws. The UK is pioneering the introduction of AI-specific child sexual abuse offenses, making it illegal to own, create, or distribute tools crafted for generating abhorrent child sexual abuse material.”
In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children at 0800 1111 and adults concerned about children can reach out at 0808 800 5000. The National Association of People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) supports adult survivors at 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents, and educators can contact the 1800 55 1800 helpline for children, or Braveheart at 1800 272 831. Adult survivors may reach the Blue Knot Foundation at 1300 657 380.
dOnaldo Trump’s re-entry into the White House has triggered a swift increase in defense spending as European leaders distance themselves from the US, marking a “turning point” in continental security. The new push for European independence could resonate further across the globe.
The aspiration for greater autonomy in Europe also translates into a greater demand for advancements in space technology, states Josef Aschbacher, director of the European Space Agency (ESA), which oversees space exploration initiatives among European nations, including those in the EU and much of the UK.
“There are numerous areas in space where Europe seeks to enhance its autonomy, particularly in an increasingly unstable geopolitical climate,” Aschbacher mentioned in an interview with the Guardian in London. “The landscape has shifted dramatically.”
Human interest in space is at an all-time high. We are currently witnessing a Second Space Race, with governments and private entities leveraging significant advancements in satellites, sensors, and, crucially, rockets. Analysts predict a growth trajectory for the industry to reach $100 million, akin to today’s airline industry, with expected surges in global observation, communication, and potentially space tourism. Increased military expenditure under Trump may further accelerate the push for advanced surveillance technologies.
However, Aschbacher emphasizes the importance of continued investment in scientific endeavors that forward humanity’s interests, which include projects like laser-based wind speed measurements, climate monitoring satellites, and the Euclidean telescope aimed at unraveling the enigma of dark matter.
For decades, collaboration with the US has been pivotal for European space science. ESA partners with American agencies, contributing to everything from astronaut missions on the International Space Station to the James Webb Telescope exploring the universe’s early radiation, as well as the Artemis program, which aims to revisit the Moon. Aschbacher oversees a budget of €7.7 billion (£6.4 billion) this year but is dwarfed by NASA’s budget of $25.4 billion (£19.6 billion).
Trump’s return raises uncertainties around the continuity of this cooperation, particularly if the US implements abrupt funding cuts to NASA.
Elon Musk adds further complexity. His SpaceX could become the primary driver in significantly reducing launch costs, thanks to its reusable Falcon 9 rocket. However, Musk’s controversial approach under Trump raises concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest as a primary NASA contractor. Trump’s decision to forgo billionaire Jared Isaacman, who was a fully paid SpaceX-supported NASA leader, has led Musk to criticize Artemis in favor of his vision to send humans to Mars.
European nations are also striving to reduce their reliance on SpaceX’s Starlink, a network of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Starlink has established a massive LEO constellation, providing reliable internet in remote regions and has become crucial for military communications in Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX will launch Bandwagon-3 in April. Photo: Joe Marino/Upi/Rex/Shutterstock
When questioned about Musk’s influence, Aschbacher refrained from discussing “the internal politics of the United States and how these decisions might be affected.”
ESA is committed to its planned projects, including the construction of Orion capsules for astronaut transport, asserting, “We are optimistic that the collaboration with the US on the Artemis program will continue.”
“If changes occur, and if a US partner alters its plans, of course, we have a Plan B ready,” Aschbacher stated. “We are certainly enhancing our autonomy and capabilities. However, now is not the moment to discuss Plan B, as Plan A remains active.”
Nevertheless, ESA is also exploring partnerships with other nations that could support “Plan B.” Aschbacher pointed to Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and India as potential collaborators.
SpaceX asserted its dominance last month when the Dragon Capsule safely returned four individuals. Two had been stranded at the International Space Station due to technical problems with Boeing’s Starliner craft.
Europe has depended on SpaceX to launch segments of its Galileo satellite navigation system following the retirement of the Ariane 5 rocket. Both systems are operated by Arianespace, and the Vega C grounding is co-owned by Airbus and Safran. This led to a “crisis launch,” which was finally resolved with the inaugural flight of the Ariane 6 rocket last year.
ESA is now focused on encouraging more launch competitors for the upcoming generation, emphasizing reusable rockets to replicate SpaceX’s cost-effectiveness. According to Aschbacher, one ESA-led initiative, the Prometheus Engine, is projected to launch in “a handful” of years. Other European private firms are also entering the race, including Augsburg, a German startup rocket manufacturer.
Once everything is on track, launches could also take place from the UK, reducing ESA’s dependence on space facilities in French Guiana, South America. Aschbacher mentioned that developing British spacecraft, especially in Shetland, is another positive development. The ESA, funded by 23 member states but not affiliated with the EU, shows that Brexit has not hindered the UK’s commitment, although the Copernicus Climate Satellite program has faced disruptions.
While ESA’s primary mission is to peacefully explore space, its potential military applications may facilitate increased funding from member states in November to cover gaps left by the US.
Nevertheless, Aschbacher is a scientist at heart. He studied natural sciences at Innsbruck University and joined ESA in 1990, eventually leading the Earth Observation Department. He acknowledged that space technology is integral to enabling numerous security needs for European countries but emphasized the importance of ongoing investment in science.
The astronauts inaugurated a new Luna facility at the European Astronaut Center in Cologne, Germany, founded by Thomas Pesquet of France and Matthias Maurer of Germany. Photo: Martin Meissner/AP
He likened investment in space to fundamental research that enabled scientists to develop COVID vaccines at remarkable speed during the pandemic.
“European investments in space must rise to ensure that the quality of life and living standards for Europeans are sustained,” he remarked. “Science is Europe’s strength. This is why economic progress and development can indeed accelerate.”
While the exact reason remains uncertain, that “fast stomach” sensation you feel on a roller coaster, during a sudden drop on a lift, or when hitting a large bump in a car highlights how your body reacts to rapid shifts in movement and gravity.
Your organs are generally anchored by a network of tissues and muscles, with gravity constantly pulling everything downward. However, when you encounter a dip or bump, the sudden changes in speed and direction—especially a quick descent—can create a distinct experience.
In that instant, your organs do not descend at the same rate as the rest of your body, resulting in a brief moment of weightlessness akin to what astronauts experience in space.
The sharp turns and swift drops of a roller coaster can induce a bit of dizziness. – Illustration credits: James Clapham
Your stomach and intestines are relatively mobile, which is why these areas are more prone to the sensation. Since they are loosely suspended, they lag slightly behind when your body moves downward rapidly.
Nerves surrounding these organs react to their displacement, sending signals to your brain that create those peculiar, stomach-flipping feelings. This sensation is enhanced by the vestibular system in your inner ear.
The vestibular system struggles to adapt to the unexpected drops and shifts in direction, intensifying that disorienting feeling of “falling.” This explains why the quick curves and steep descents of roller coasters can also leave you feeling a bit dizzy.
So, the next time you experience that exhilarating rush, take a moment to appreciate the physics at play: gravity, acceleration, and the intricate balance of your internal organs contributing to the thrill.
This article answers a question sent to Lori Schafer: “Why does my stomach drop on a roller coaster or when I hit a bump?”
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When individuals develop solid tumors in the stomach, esophagus, or rectum, oncologists have established treatment strategies. Yet, these treatments can significantly affect quality of life, leading to outcomes such as stomach and bladder removal, permanent colostomy bags, radiation exposure, infertility from chemotherapy, and lasting bodily harm.
In response, a research team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center utilized drugs from GSK to explore a novel approach.
They initiated the study with 103 participants, who represent a small fraction (2-3%) of cancer patients with tumors ideally suited for immunotherapy—drugs designed to bypass obstacles that prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells.
Notably, clinical trials do not generally expect immunotherapy to replace standard treatments. Researchers, led by Dr. Lewis A. Diaz Jr. and Andrea Cerseck, opted to administer dostarlimab, an immunotherapeutic agent.
The outcomes were unexpected and offered hope for a select group of patients faced with these cancers.
In 49 patients with rectal cancer, tumors vanished and did not return after five years. Among 54 patients with other cancers—including esophageal, liver, endometrial, urinary tract, and prostate cancers—35 experienced total tumor disappearance.
Out of the 103 patients, only five experienced a recurrence of cancer. Three were given three doses of immunotherapy, while one was discontinued after the tumor reappeared in the lymph nodes. Currently, the four patients show no signs of disease, while the fifth received further immunotherapy to reduce the tumor size.
On Sunday, investigators presented their findings at the American Cancer Research Association’s Annual Meeting, with a paper featured in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Dr. Bert Vogelstein, an oncologist at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, termed the results “groundbreaking.”
The drug development’s early stages were conducted in his lab, where he expressed surprise at the advancements.
“The concept of treating large tumors from various organs without surgery seemed like science fiction 20 or 30 years ago,” he noted. However, he emphasized that these discoveries stemmed from decades of foundational research.
The reason immunotherapy succeeded for these significant tumors lies in their gene incompatible repair mutations, which obstruct the correction of DNA damage. This leads to tumors accumulating abnormal proteins that signal the immune system for destruction. Nevertheless, the tumors deploy a shield to fend off immune attacks, which immunotherapy can stimulate, enabling the immune system to target the tumors effectively.
For patients like those in this study, Dr. Michael Oberman, a gastrointestinal cancer specialist at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, suggests the results point towards immunotherapy as an option free of chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
However, obstacles remain. The drug is priced around $11,000 per dose, requiring patients to undergo nine infusions over six months. To qualify for insurance coverage, it needs inclusion in clinical guidelines established by professional organizations.
The drug is approved for treating uterine cancer with mismatch repair mutations and is also listed in clinical guidelines for rectal cancer, based on previous small-scale studies. Yet, Dr. Diaz indicated that other cancer patients may face challenges in taking the medication. Nonetheless, Memorial Sloan Kettering continues to recruit participants for clinical trials, meaning those with eligible tumors can access the drug at no cost.
For some individuals, immunotherapy is life-transforming. Side effects can occur, with the study noting fatigue, rashes, and itching as the most common. Rare side effects included pulmonary infections and encephalitis.
Maureen Sidris, a 71-year-old from Amenia, New York, discovered she had cancer after struggling to eat a burger.
“It wouldn’t go down,” she recounted, realizing there was some blockage. Ultimately, it was identified as a tumor at the junction of her stomach and esophagus.
In 2019, she visited Sloan Kettering, where her surgeon advised that surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation were mandatory and that surgery would be complex.
However, due to her tumor’s mismatch repair mutation, she was able to join a clinical trial. Her first injection occurred on October 14 of that year, and by January, her tumor had disappeared. While Sidris experienced one side effect from the treatment requiring medication to support her kidney function, she considers it worthwhile to avoid the challenging treatments initially suggested.
“It was indeed a journey,” she remarked. However, she reasoned that she had everything to gain and nothing to lose by trying immunotherapy.
“If it didn’t succeed, I still had surgery as a backup,” she concluded.
Meta is now facing a second lawsuit in Africa related to the psychological trauma endured by content moderators tasked with filtering out disturbing material on social media, including depictions of murder, extreme violence, and child sexual abuse.
A lawyer is preparing to take legal action against a contractor of Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, following discussions with moderators at a facility in Ghana that reportedly employs around 150 individuals.
Moderators at Magilal in Accra report suffering from depression, anxiety, insomnia, and substance abuse directly linked to their responsibilities of reviewing extreme content.
The troubling conditions faced by Ghanaian workers have come to light through a collaborative investigation by the Guardian and the Bureau of Investigative Journalism.
This issue arose after over 140 Facebook content moderators in Kenya were diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress disorder due to their exposure to traumatic social media content.
The Kenyan workers were employed by Samasource, an outsourcing company that recruits personnel from across Africa for content moderation tasks for Meta. The Magilal facility, central to the allegations in Ghana, is owned by the French multinational Teleperformance.
One individual, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, disclosed that he attempted suicide due to his work. His contract has since expired, and he claims to have returned to his home country.
Facebook and similar large social media platforms often employ numerous content moderators in some of the world’s most impoverished regions, tasked with removing posts that violate community standards and aiding in training AI systems for the same purpose.
Content moderators are required to review distressing and often brutal images and videos to determine if they should be taken down from Meta’s platform. According to reports from Ghanaian workers, they have witnessed videos including extreme violence, such as people being skinned alive or women being decapitated.
Moderators have claimed that the mental health support provided by the company is inadequate, lacking professional oversight, and there are concerns that personal disclosures regarding the impact of their work are being circulated among management. Teleperformance contested this claim, asserting that they employed a licensed mental health professional, duly registered with a local regulatory body, who possesses a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related mental health field.
The legal action is initiated by the UK-based nonprofit Foxglove. This marks the second lawsuit filed by an African content moderator, following the lawsuit from Kenya’s Samasource workers in December.
Foxglove has stated they will “immediately investigate these alarming reports of worker mistreatment,” with the goal of employing “all available methods, including potential legal action,” to enhance working conditions.
They are collaborating with Agency Seven Seven, a Ghanaian firm, to prepare two potential cases. One could involve claims of unfair dismissal, including a group of moderators who allege psychological harm, along with an East African moderator whose contract ended following a suicide attempt.
Martha Dark, co-executive director at Foxglove, remarked:
“In Ghana, Meta seems to completely disregard the humanity of the crucial safety personnel that all interests rely on—content moderators.
Dark noted that the base wages for content moderators in Accra fall below the living wage, with pressures to work overtime. Moderators reportedly face pay deductions for not meeting performance targets, she indicated.
Contracts obtained by the Guardian show that starting wages are around 1,300 Ghanaian Cedis per month. This base pay is supplemented by a performance-related bonus system, with the highest earnings reaching approximately 4,900 Cedis (£243) per month, significantly less than what is needed for a decent living, according to living costs in Accra.
A spokesperson for Teleperformance stated that content moderators receive “a competitive salary and benefits,” including a monthly income approximately 10 times the national minimum wage for local moderators, and 16 times the minimum wage from other countries, along with project allowances and other benefits, all automatically provided and not contingent on performance.
Foxglove researcher Michaela Chen observed that some moderators are crammed into tight living spaces: “Five individuals were packed into a single room.” She mentioned the existence of a secretive culture of surveillance from managers that monitors workers even during breaks.
This surveillance extends to the work of Meta moderators. She stated: “Workers dedicate all day to the Meta platform, adhering to Meta’s standards and utilizing its systems, yet they are constantly reminded, ‘You’re not working for Meta,’ and are prohibited from disclosing anything to anyone.”
Teleperformance asserted that the moderators are housed in one of Accra’s most luxurious and well-known residential and commercial zones.
The spokesperson described the accommodation as “secure and offering high levels of safety,” complete with recreational facilities such as air conditioning, a gym, and a pool.
Agency Seven Seven partner Carla Olympio believes personal injury claims could succeed in Ghanaian courts, stating they would set a legal precedent that acknowledges employee protections extend to psychological and physical harm.
“[There exists] a gap in our laws as they do not adequately address advancements in technology and virtual work,” she expressed.
Rosa Curling, co-director at Foxglove, has called upon the court to “mandate immediate reforms in the work environment for content moderators,” ensuring proper protective measures and mental health care.
A Teleperformance spokesperson stated: “We are committed to addressing content moderation in Ghana. We fully disclose the type of content moderators may encounter throughout the hiring process, employee contracts, training sessions, and resilience assessments, while actively maintaining a supportive atmosphere for our content moderators.”
Meta commented that the companies it partners with are “contractually obligated to ensure that employees engaged in content reviews on Facebook and Instagram receive adequate support that meets or exceeds industry standards.”
The tech giant further stated it “places great importance on the support provided to content reviewers,” detailing expectations for counseling, training, and other resources when engaging with outsourced companies.
All content moderators indicated they had signed a non-disclosure agreement due to the sensitivity of user information they handle for their safety; however, they are permitted to discuss their experiences with medical professionals and counselors.
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