The stark differences in proximity and width between the moon’s near and far sides, along with their topography, volcanism, and crustal structures, offer crucial insights into the moon’s formation and evolution. However, investigations into the mechanisms behind this hemispherical asymmetry have been constrained by the absence of far-side samples. A recent study revealed fragments of rock and soil collected by China’s Chang’e 6 spacecraft from a large crater on the moon last year. Researchers confirmed that these rock samples are approximately 2.8 billion years old, analyzed the chemical composition of the minerals, and estimated that they were formed from lava deep within the moon at temperatures around 1,100 degrees Celsius. Survey results were published in the journal Natural Earth Science.
A global map of Albedo from a 750 nm filter on a UV-VIS camera mounted on NASA’s Clementine spacecraft. This image shows the near and far side of Lambert’s moon, and is an equal area projection. Image credit: NASA.
“The near and far sides of the moon differ significantly, both on the surface and potentially in their internal structures,” said Professor Yang Lee, a researcher at the University of London.
“This is one of the moon’s great mysteries. We refer to it as the two-sided moon. While variations in temperature between the near and far sides have long been theorized, our research presents the first evidence derived from actual samples.”
“These discoveries bring us closer to understanding the moon’s dual nature,” stated PhD candidate Xuelin Zhu from Peking University.
“They indicate that the disparities between the two sides extend beyond the surface, reaching deep within the moon.”
In this research, the authors examined 300 grams of lunar soil assigned to the Beijing Institute of Uranium Geology.
“This sample represents the first collection by the Chang’e 6 mission from across the moon,” commented Dr. Sheng, a researcher at the same institute.
The researchers found the samples were primarily composed of basalt particles and utilized electron probes to map specific areas of the sample, determining their composition.
They analyzed variations in lead isotopes dating back 2.8 billion years.
Several techniques were employed to estimate the sample temperatures at different stages in the moon’s past.
The first method involved analyzing mineral composition and comparing it with computer simulations to estimate the formation temperatures of the rocks.
This was juxtaposed with similar estimates for rocks from the near side, revealing a temperature difference of approximately 100 degrees Celsius.
The second technique delved further into the sample’s history, inferring from its chemical composition to ascertain the heat of the “parent rock” and comparing it with estimates of lunar samples obtained during the Apollo missions.
Once again, a Celsius difference of about 100 degrees was identified.
Due to the limited samples returned, they estimated the parent rock temperature using satellite data from the Chang’e landing sites on both sides, comparing this with similar data from nearby areas, which revealed a difference of 70 degrees Celsius.
On the moon, thermogenic elements like uranium, thorium, and potassium are often found alongside phosphorus and rare earth elements within a material referred to as KREEP (an acronym for potassium (K), rare earth element (REE), and phosphorus (P)).
The leading theory regarding the moon’s origin posits that it formed from debris resulting from a large-scale collision between Earth and a Mars-sized protoplanet, developing from primarily molten rock.
This magma solidified as it cooled, but KREEP elements were compatible with the forming crystals and remained within the magma for extended periods.
Scientists anticipate that KREEP material would be evenly distributed across the moon. In reality, it appears to be concentrated in the near side’s mantle.
The distribution of these elements may explain why the near side exhibited more volcanic activity.
While the current mantle temperatures on the far and near sides of the moon remain unknown due to this study, the temperature imbalances are likely to persist for a considerable duration, as the moon cools very slowly since its formation from a catastrophic impact.
Scientists aim to provide definitive answers to these questions in ongoing research.
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she et al. Chang’e-6 basalt and relatively cool moon facid mantle inferred from remote sensing. nut. Geosci Published online on September 30th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41561-025-01815-z
Illustration of two planets circling white dwarf stars
Julian Baum/Science Photo Library
Planets in orbit around white dwarf stars may have the potential to remain habitable due to subtle movements dictated by the general theory of relativity.
As sun-like stars deplete their fuel, they expand into red giants, shedding their outer layers, ultimately leaving behind a dense, hot core called a white dwarf. Evidence shows that giant planets can continue orbiting these remnants, indicating that life may withstand the stars’ expansion.
Moreover, rocky planets could potentially orbit close to these stars within a compact habitable zone. This zone is the region around the star where liquid water can exist on a planet’s surface, though it has yet to be observed. White dwarfs can remain hospitable for immense periods, as they cool down very gradually, possibly for trillions of years.
The habitable zone is located million kilometers away from the stars and is significantly narrower than Earth’s orbit of 150 million kilometers. Previous studies indicated that a massive orbiting planet makes survival untenable due to tidal heating effects: the gravitational pull of a larger planet generates internal friction, leading to a runaway greenhouse effect akin to that of Venus.
However, modeling conducted by Eva Stafne suggests this might not necessarily be the case. Juliet Becker, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, found that, under certain conditions, Einstein’s general theory of relativity can provide a lifeline for the inner planet.
According to general relativity, massive objects warp space-time, which can be visualized as a dip or “well” on a flat surface. Essentially, the gravity wells of the host star become detached from the orbiting planet, slowly rotating and interacting inconsistently as the planet moves in and out of these wells.
“There’s a precession that separates the outer planet from the inner planet,” says Stafne, which prevents extreme tidal effects on the inner planet. “Past simulations did not consider general relativity, but this highlights the importance of including it in these close systems.”
Without considering general relativity, the outer planet, which would need to be at least 18 times more massive than the innermost planet, could provoke this runaway greenhouse effect, Becker explains. Yet, “factoring in general relativity changes the outcome dramatically,” she states. The inner planet can remain hospitable to similar distances, even with an outer planet as large as Neptune.
Mary Anne Limbach from the University of Michigan is uncertain about the likelihood of discovering such systems. “I’m not even sure if any habitable planets exist around white dwarfs,” she states. Telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope are actively on the lookout for rocky worlds in the vicinity of white dwarfs.
Nevertheless, this research reveals a unique series of plausible scenarios where inhabitants of distant worlds may thrive under suitable conditions, thanks to the bending of space-time.
“We might have a better understanding of how common relativity can be than we think,” Limbach observes.
The Enigma of the Universe: Cheshire, England
Join a weekend with some of the brightest scientific minds. Delve into the mysteries of the universe through an exhilarating program that includes a trip to see the iconic Lovell telescope.
The primary goal of contemporary astronomy is to search for extraterrestrial life. All organisms on Earth require water, prompting scientists to postulate that locating water in space is essential for finding Earth-like life elsewhere. Discoveries indicate that substantial amounts of water exist in space, often in surprising locations. For example, researchers have identified frosty Calderason Mars and water geysers on Saturn’s Moon Enceladus, among other sites, including the worlds of water surrounding other stars.
Nonetheless, water-rich exoplanets do not necessarily mimic Earth. A prevalent category of exoplanets known as Sub-Neptunes can be 2-4 times Earth’s radius, typically composed of more gas and ice. Researchers have determined the density of these sub-Neptunes, suggesting they may possess a substantial inner layer rich in water, encased in hydrogen layers. This structure diverges from Earth’s, which features thin surface oceans and expansive underground water reserves.
Additionally, scientists have found numerous sub-Neptunes in close orbit to their stars, revealing that they maintain elevated equilibrium temperatures. Consequently, these exoplanets are unable to sustain liquid water layers; instead, they exhibit a vapor atmosphere above a water layer in a state between liquid and gas, referred to as supercritical.
Gas and supercritical fluids dominate over liquids, resulting in Steam Worlds that are inflated compared to colder sub-Neptunes. Their larger radius is sensitive to temperature changes, causing them to expand as they move away from their host star and contract as they approach it. Although scientists have developed computer models of steam worlds previously, outcomes varied as they overlooked either contraction effects or aged deformation.
In pursuit of a clearer understanding of these steam worlds, a collaboration between US and UK scientists generated dynamic simulations of the known exoplanet GJ 1214B to assess its transformations over 20 billion years. Their model featured planets orbiting a red star with a mass less than seven times that of Earth and a radius exceeding 3.3 times Earth’s, with equilibrium temperatures around 540°F (280°C). They structured the model planet across five distinct layers: an inner iron core, varying upper and lower mantle compositions, a high-pressure ice layer, and an external fluid water envelope.
To monitor the temperature changes within their steam world over time, the research team focused on its interior rather than the outermost layer. For planets with vaporous outer layers subjected to solar evaporation, internal temperatures can exceed expectations since atmospheric gases can trap more heat than escape to space. This explains why Venus, the second planet from the Sun, is hotter than Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun.
The team found that their model exoplanet generally cooled and contracted over its lifespan. Starting with a radius over 3.3 times Earth’s and internal temperatures near 1,300°F (700°C), within less than 10 million years, its radius reduced to 2.9 times Earth’s with an internal temperature of 260°F (130°C). After 100 million years, it measured 2.7 times Earth’s radius, while internal temperatures dropped to -190°F (-120°C). Ultimately, after 20 billion years, the model planet’s radius was 2.6 times that of Earth, with a frigid interior temperature of -400°F (-230°C).
The final findings revealed a cooler interior exoplanet, smaller than earlier models of water-rich sub-Neptunes, indicating that it remained tightly compressed and did not lose mass. A denser planet holds less steam in its outer layers. Additionally, its inner ice layer was influenced by chemical transformations between ice and cold plasma, exhibiting properties of both liquid and solid forms, termed superion ice.
The researchers conceded that their model may not accurately reflect real sub-Neptunes, as they assumed pure water layers within the steam world. In reality, these layers likely contain chemical impurities, accompanied by an outer hydrogen and helium gas shell. Nonetheless, they posited that these outcomes could aid international researchers in better deciphering the entirety of Sub-Neptunes, as they indicate a potential relationship between a sub-Neptune’s radius, its density, and the age of its host system. All three characteristics are currently under examination in ongoing missions like JWST and Gaia.
OpenAI is dedicated to providing copyright holders with “greater control” over character generation following the recent release of the Sora 2 app, which has overwhelmed platforms with videos featuring copyrighted characters.
Sora 2, an AI-driven video creation tool, was launched last week by invitation only. This application enables users to produce short videos from text prompts. A review by the Guardian of the AI-generated content revealed instances of copyrighted characters from shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, South Park, Pokémon, and Rick and Morty.
According to the Wall Street Journal, prior to releasing Sora 2, OpenAI informed talent agencies and studios that they would need to opt out if they wished to prevent the unlicensed use of their material by video generators.
OpenAI stated that those who own Guardian content can utilize a “copyright dispute form” to report copyright violations, though individual artists and studios cannot opt out of blanket agreements. Varun Shetty, OpenAI’s Head of Media Partnerships, remarked:
OpenAI Sora 2 Generated Video 1
On Saturday, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated in a blog post that the company has received “feedback” from users, rights holders, and various groups, leading to modifications.
He mentioned that rights holders will gain more “detailed control” as well as enhanced options regarding how their likenesses can be used within the application.
“We’ve heard from numerous rights holders who are thrilled about this new form of ‘interactive fan fiction’ and are confident that this level of engagement will be beneficial for them; however, we want to ensure that they can specify the manner in which the characters are utilized.”
Altman noted that OpenAI will “work with rights holders to determine the way forward,” adding that certain “generation edge cases” will undergo scrutiny within the platform’s guidelines.
He emphasized that the company needs to find a sustainable revenue model from video generation and that user engagement is exceeding initial expectations. This could lead to compensating rights holders for the authorized use of their characters.
“Creating an accurate model requires some trial and error, but we plan to start soon,” Altman said. “Our aim is for this new type of engagement to be even more valuable than revenue sharing, and we hope it’s worth it for everyone involved.”
He remarked on the rapid evolution of the project, reminiscent of the early days of ChatGPT, acknowledging both successful decisions and mistakes made along the way.
Asian warehouse employees report that Amazon, recognized as the world’s second-largest employer, has failed to fulfill its commitment to compensate them for financial exploitation tied to the operations of Saudi online retailers.
In 2023, Amazon announced it would refund recruitment fees to Asian contract workers who were compelled to pay substantial amounts to secure jobs in the warehouses of Saudi companies. Since then, the company has disbursed over $2.6 million in compensation to approximately 950 workers from various nations.
However, two years later, numerous immigrants are still awaiting reimbursement of their recruitment fees, with uncertain prospects for financial relief. Of the 67 workers interviewed by the Guardian, 36 indicated they had yet to receive payments from Amazon, despite having paid significant fees to gain employment in the company’s Saudi Arabian operations.
“I want to tell Amazon: If you intend to repay your debt, do it now,” stated Rameshwar Sharma, a worker from Nepal, who reported not having received any compensation. “Don’t treat us like fools. We are not begging. We seek justice.”
In a statement, Amazon spokesperson Margaret Callahan remarked that the company was “working swiftly and diligently to identify individuals entitled to reimbursement for employment costs incurred at third-party vendors that violated supply chain standards.”
She further noted that “we are aware that our work is not complete,” and that Amazon will “persist in issuing refunds as swiftly as possible.”
Labor rights advocates from Amnesty International, a human rights organization that scrutinized Amazon’s labor practices in Saudi Arabia, condemned the delays in processing worker payments as unacceptable.
“Too many individuals are still in limbo, and every delay prolongs their suffering,” commented Ella Knight from Amnesty International. “For one of the wealthiest companies globally, the sum involved is a mere drop in the ocean. However, for workers, timely justice can transform lives.”
Amazon, she insisted, “must act promptly to uphold its full human rights responsibilities.”
Some of the workers interviewed expressed concerns that the issue extends beyond mere delays. They reported being deemed ineligible for payments despite having paid substantial recruitment fees and having worked in Amazon’s Saudi Arabian operations.
Mithra Lal Sapkota, a Nepali worker, mentioned that he was informed he would not be refunded because his employment with Amazon ended in October 2023. Impactt staff, acting as Amazon’s intermediaries for compensation, left messages for Nepali workers stating that payments were only for those who ended their employment with Amazon in 2023 or later.
“Why are dates so crucial to them?” questioned Mithra Lal Sapkota. Impactt informed him that his job at Amazon ended in 2022, making him ineligible for a refund of his recruitment fees.
“What Amazon is doing feels disingenuous,” he remarked.
Amazon did not respond to inquiries regarding whether October 2023 was a cutoff date for payment eligibility, nor did they clarify the criteria for determining payment recipients.
Concerns about the treatment of vulnerable workers in Amazon’s Saudi warehouses gained significant attention following a survey released on October 10, 2023, by the Guardian, NBC News, and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists along with the Arab Reporter for Investigative Journalism. The reporting revealed that workers were charged recruitment fees ranging from approximately $830 to $2,300 to secure jobs in Amazon’s Saudi warehouses, violating Supply Chain Standards.
In response to media inquiries and an investigation by Amnesty International, Amazon committed to enhancing its labor practices and reimbursing recruitment fees for workers involved with its Saudi Arabian operations.
By February 2024, Amazon had compensated over 700 workers with approximately $1.9 million. Nevertheless, the pace of payments has since dwindled, with numerous workers claiming they remain excluded. Among the 44 current and former Amazon contract workers interviewed for the Guardian’s report in December 2024, 33 stated they had yet to receive any refund from the company. “These are intricate and prolonged processes, and we do our utmost to expedite refunds,” Amazon explained at the time.
Since the follow-up report, Amazon has distributed over $330,000 in compensation to roughly 100 workers.
The migrant workers involved in this story hail from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Kenya.
Bangladeshi worker MD Foisal Mia reported paying a recruitment company over $3,500 for a contract position in Amazon’s Saudi operations. He mentioned he has yet to receive any indication of compensation from Amazon or Impactt. He hopes that a refund for his recruitment fees would significantly impact his family’s circumstances.
“My family is in need. It’s challenging to manage a household,” stated Mia, who currently works at a vegetable store in Kuwait. “Please return my fee. This money means little to you, but it is everything to me.”
Nepali worker Sonu Kumar Mandal sought employment in the Amazon warehouse in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, in 2021. To afford the costs, he secured a loan from a local moneylender with an exorbitant annual interest rate of 36%.
However, he was unable to meet his repayment obligations as his earnings were directed towards supporting his financially struggling family.
“I don’t have the funds to pay interest at present. I’m unemployed,” he lamented. “If Amazon were to refund the money, I would be able to settle the loan.”
Several workers denied compensation expressed that if Amazon genuinely wanted to reimburse them, they could have informed them about the refund process.
“Amazon has my phone number, my email, my passport, everything,” said Kishor Kumar Chaudhary, another Nepali worker. “If they wanted to reach me, they could easily do so. But why haven’t they?”
Pradip Kumar Mahato, a former Amazon employee from Nepal, filled out an online compensation form and sent a voice message to Impactt staff in July. In a reply, the staff conveyed: “[money] Very slim…we’re trying, but there’s no guarantee.”
Callahan, the Amazon spokesperson, expressed that the company is establishing a comprehensive complaint resolution mechanism for workers to voice their concerns. Amazon provides a web page where individuals, including former employees, can file complaints in various languages regarding the company’s employment and environmental practices.
Three distinguished scientists (two from the U.S. and one from Japan) have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their pivotal discovery related to peripheral immune resistance.
Mary E. Blankku, Fred Ramsdell, and Sakaguchi Shiko were jointly recognized for their breakthrough that “has invigorated the field of peripheral tolerance and contributed to the advancement of medical treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders,” as stated in a news release by the Nobel Committee. The three recipients will share a prize of 11 million Swedish Kronor (approximately $1.2 million).
“This could also enhance the success rates of organ transplants. Several of these therapies are currently in clinical trials,” he noted.
Autoimmune diseases may arise when T cells, which serve as the body’s main defense against harmful pathogens, malfunction.
Their collective discovery establishes an essential foundation for understanding alternative methods by which the immune system, known as peripheral resistance, functions.
To mitigate damage, our bodies attempt to eliminate malfunctioning T cells within the thymus, a lymphoid organ, through a mechanism termed central resistance. Associated Press.
The groundbreaking research began in 1995 when Sakaguchi, a prominent professor at the Center for Immunology Frontier Research at Osaka University in Japan, uncovered a previously unknown class of immune cells that defend against autoimmune diseases.
Six years later, in 2001, Mary Blankku, who now serves as a senior program manager at the Institute of Systems Biology in Seattle, along with Ramsdell, a scientific advisor to Sonoma Biotherapeutics in San Francisco, identified a specific genetic mutation responsible for a severe autoimmune disease known as IPEX.
They designated this gene as foxp3.
By 2003, Sakaguchi confirmed that the FOXP3 gene he had identified nearly a decade prior was crucial for cell development. These cells are now referred to as regulatory T cells, which are essential in monitoring other T cells to prevent their malfunction.
“Their discoveries were vital for understanding the immune system’s functioning and why serious autoimmune diseases don’t affect everyone,” remarked All Kampe, Chairman of the Nobel Committee.
Nobel Committee Executive Director Thomas Perman announced the award on Monday morning, stating that he was only able to reach Sakaguchi.
“I hugged him in his lab, and he expressed immense gratitude, stating it was a tremendous honor. He was quite moved by the news,” Perman mentioned.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for December 10th, coinciding with the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, a Swedish industrialist who founded the award to honor individuals who have significantly contributed to humanity. The inaugural award was revealed in 1901, marking the fifth anniversary of his passing.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine will be announced in Stockholm at the Karolinska Institute on Monday, followed by the prizes for Physics, Chemistry, and Literature on the ensuing days.
On Monday, OpenAI and semiconductor manufacturer AMD revealed that they have entered into a multi-billion dollar agreement concerning chips, which will allow the creators of ChatGPT to purchase significant equity stakes in the chipmaker.
This arrangement provides OpenAI the chance to acquire 10% of AMD, reflecting substantial confidence in the company’s AI chips and software. Following the announcement, AMD’s stock soared by over 30%, contributing approximately $800 billion to its market capitalization.
“We are excited to announce our dedication to delivering a variety of services to our clientele,” stated Forest Norod, AMD’s Executive Vice President.
These recent investment commitments underscore OpenAI’s significance, as the increasing demands of the AI sector drive companies to advance AI technologies that rival or surpass human intelligence. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, pointed out that the primary limitation on the company’s expansion is access to computing resources, particularly extensive data centers equipped with advanced semiconductor chips. Last week, Nvidia declared a $100 billion investment in OpenAI, further solidifying the collaboration between these leading AI firms.
The agreement announced on Monday encompasses the deployment of hundreds of thousands of AMD AI chips or graphics processing units (GPUs) totaling 6 gigawatts over several years, starting in the latter half of 2026. AMD confirmed that OpenAI will establish a 1 Gigawatt facility utilizing the MI450 series chips beginning next year.
Additionally, AMD issued a warrant that enables OpenAI to purchase up to 160 million shares of AMD at just one cent each during the course of the chip trading.
AMD’s executives anticipate that this transaction will result in tens of millions of dollars in annual revenue. Due to the expected ripple effects of this contract, AMD has projected more than $100 million in new revenue over four years from OpenAI and other clientele.
“This marks a trailblazing initiative in an industry poised to significantly influence broader ecosystems, attracting others to join,” remarked Matt Hein, AMD’s Head of Strategy.
This agreement with AMD is expected to significantly bolster OpenAI’s infrastructure to fulfill its operational requirements, Altman confirmed in a statement.
However, it remains unclear how OpenAI plans to finance this substantial deal with AMD. According to media reports, the deal is estimated to be worth around $500 million, yielding approximately $4.3 billion in revenue in the first half of 2025 while burning through $2.5 billion in cash.
Over a century has passed since the Endurance, reputedly the strongest wooden ship ever constructed, met its fate in Antarctic ice. Recent evaluations of historical evidence indicate that it might not have been as resilient as other polar vessels of its era, casting doubt on expedition leader Ernest Shackleton’s awareness of its limitations.
Shackleton aimed to journey across Antarctica from the Weddell Sea to the Ross Sea, making stops along the way. However, the Endurance never reached the Antarctic coastline. In 1915, it became trapped in ice in the Weddell Sea, leading to its sinking.
Jukka Tukuri, who was part of a significant expedition at Aalto University in Finland, discovered a shipwreck on the seabed in 2022. Upon researching the polar vessels of that time, he found that the narrative surrounding the Endurance was misleading; it lacked the structural strength attributed to it.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several ships were engineered specifically to navigate sea ice. Many featured an oval hull shape and shallow keels, which helped prevent ice from creating strong hold on the side, allowing it to slide beneath. Additionally, the internal structure of these vessels included a continuous deck spanning the hull’s entire length, which enhanced their rigidity.
In contrast, the Endurance was longer and had taller keels. Tukuri’s calculations indicated that other contemporary polar ships could withstand 1.7 to 2.7 times more compressive force than the Endurance. Furthermore, the ship’s large engine restricted the lower deck to only part of the vessel, creating structural weaknesses due to the absence of a reinforced box-like configuration.
In his review of Shackleton’s letters, Tukuri found evidence that Shackleton was aware of these design flaws. Just before departing for Antarctica, Shackleton noted in a letter to his wife that Nimrod, his previous ship, was more robust. Yet, he pressed on with his journey: “He was willing to embrace the risk,” Tukuri commented.
As predicted, the Endurance could not withstand the immense pressure of the sea ice. The vessel was compressed and distorted until its keel was ultimately torn apart and submerged.
Despite this, a myth arose portraying the Endurance as the world’s most resilient wooden ship, potentially fueled by an article in The Era. According to Tukuri, Shackleton perpetuated this narrative; the reasons remain unclear, but it seems to add an element of drama to his ill-fated expedition. “Endurance may have symbolized strength and heroism poetically,” he said. “Regrettably, that was not the case from an engineering perspective.”
WThe temperatures are plummeting, and we all crave a bit more comfort. For some, it’s about getting a plush bed with a fresh memory foam mattress topper or an ergonomic office chair. For others, it’s a chic waterproof hooded scarf to style your wet hair, or a hair dryer that’s ready to return to action.
And for some of you, that might just mean a fringe party skirt and a cheese box arriving in the mail. Who are we to judge? These are your top picks for the month.
When Jane Hoskin, an insomnia sufferer and filter reviewer, experimented with the best (and odd) sleep aids, she didn’t expect a simple sub-£10 eye mask to afford her a solid 9-hour slumber. “The best masks truly obstruct all light without feeling flat or too tight on your eyes,” she shares, calling MyHalos her “ideal match.”
If you’re astonished to find an advent calendar among your favorite products for September, it seems the beauty advent calendar craze has evaded you. People shell out extensively for a selection of these products, which promise significant savings on their contents. Your top choice is, unsurprisingly, the “shockingly affordable” W7 calendar. Reviewer Sarah Matthews noted that the included items “stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the industry’s finest,” albeit they are mostly miniatures.
Office Chair Upgrade
Slouching Task 1
£289 on Slouch
If you’re still working from home on a dining chair, it’s time for a change. Your work chair needs to be as supportive and comfy as your most-used pieces of furniture, like your mattress.
Reviewer Stuart Andrews spends extended hours at his desk, and he was the right person to evaluate the best office chairs. The Slouching Task 1 emerged as his top choice, providing him “everything you desire from a work chair.”
Eco-Friendly Scourers
Non-Kilo Scourers
£13.47 on eBay£3.75 on Amazon
Cotton scourers serve as an excellent way to cut down on plastic waste in your kitchen. “These are amazing for cleaning,” says Maggie, a filter reader and Sustainable Swaps guide. “They’re not packed with food like typical sponge scourers, and I toss them in the wash weekly to keep them fresh.”
Chic Rain Cover
Waterproof Hooded Scarf
£39.15 on Etsy
Looking stylish in the rain can be challenging. However, our fashion writer, Charlotte Gornoll, has crafted the ultimate guide to staying fashionable in wet weather. Your top styling tip was this waterproof hooded scarf. “If your jacket lacks a hood, why not complement it?” Charlotte suggested, likening it to “the late Queen Elizabeth’s stylish touch.”
Letterbox Cheese Board
Perfect British Cheese Board
£10 at Butlers
Of all the gifts that fit through a letterbox, is there anything better than a quality cheese board? A standout from our guide features three exquisite cheeses (Blacksticks Blue, Button Mill, Sunday Best) accompanied by track-reading figure relish and Peter’s yard crackers.
Top Budget Hair Dryer
Babyliss Hydro-Fusion
£60 on Look Fantastic£31.99 on Amazon
“In my years of reviewing beauty products, upgrading my hair dryer brought the most significant change to my routine,” stated Sarah Matthews in his guide to the finest hair dryers. “Modern hair dryers have changed the game.” Sarah’s favored budget option, Babyliss Hydro Fusion, is “sturdy and powerful,” and is currently priced at £31.99 on Amazon.
Mattress Toppers
Panda Bamboo Topper, Double
£139.95 for Panda
“A mattress topper is like the cheese slice on a burger,” wrote reviewer Jane Hoskin. “While not essential, it can be a game changer, particularly if your mattress feels worn out.” Jane found the Panda bamboo topper to be the coolest option in her mattress topper tests despite being memory foam based. Clearly, many of you were drawn to the idea of “not feeling your restless partner’s movements.”
Party Skirt
Fringe Detail Mini
£50 on M&S
“This M&S skirt is an absolute winner,” noted Jess Cartner Morley in the style essentials for September. “I mean, look at it. All the tassels, perfectly cheeky (short but not too short), in chic off-white colors.” Clearly, many shared this sentiment, as this stylish party skirt emerged as a favorite.
Quick Clothing Steamer
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie
£28 at John Lewis
“I determined to be an ironed-clothes kind of woman,” writes Kate McCusker in the Green to the Grand Style Guide for All Ages. “Yet, I’m still waiting for that transformation, so I rely on this steamer in the morning to prevent my clothes from looking like I just rolled out of bed.” It appears many filter readers are still on that journey.
Ceramic Frying Pan
Procook Elite Tri-Ply
£48 on Procook
Trendy kitchen gadgets come and go, yet a dependable frying pan remains an essential kitchen item. We look for durability, easy cleaning, and hopefully no harmful chemical coatings. Is that too much to wish for? Dale Berning Sawa examined twelve premier frying pans under rigorous conditions. Your top pick was this Procook ceramic frying pan, praised for its impressive quality and reasonable price.
MP3 Player – Seriously
Snowsky Echo Mini
£66.99 on eBay
If you thought you’d stepped into a time machine upon seeing the advent calendar, wait until you come across an MP3 player (especially one with a cassette tape design). Yet, digital audio players are staging a comeback, appealing to those who want to unplug from streaming services while taking control of their music. This economical pick from the sub-brand Snowsky offers a “nostalgic vibe” while Alan Martin noted in his review, “delivers a much richer sound compared to other budget gadgets I’ve tested.”
Moon enthusiasts are in for a treat in the coming months, as four supermoons will be appearing. These remarkable full moons are named for the colder months in the Northern Hemisphere: the October Hunter Moon, the November Beaver Moon, and the December and January Wolf Moons. What sets a supermoon apart is its larger and brighter appearance compared to an ordinary full moon.
A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the point in its elliptical orbit around Earth where it is closest to our planet. This results in a moon that is 8% larger and 15% brighter than the typical full moon, a sight that skywatchers everywhere can appreciate.
The next full moon will rise in November, but the difference between this supermoon and the usual ones may not be easily noticed. To fully experience the supermoon, it’s best to observe it when it is on the horizon, as this can create an illusion of it being even larger alongside nearby objects.
The first supermoon is set to appear on October 7th. If conditions are clear, you will be able to view the fully illuminated moon as soon as the sun sets, no matter where you are.
Even if you miss this one, it’s still a splendid time to gaze at the moon. After the full moon, it will travel through the sky toward the constellation Taurus, offering plenty of celestial sights.
By October 10th, the moon will dim, yet more than 75% will still shine brightly, located near the Pleiades, known as the seven sisters—a cluster of young stars about 440 light years away that formed simultaneously.
Only the brightest stars of this group can be seen with the naked eye, which is why they are referred to as the seven sisters. They appear in a roughly square shape with lines extending from one corner, reminiscent of the Plow or the Big Dipper.
On October 14th, the moon will be illuminated at less than 50% and will be positioned next to the planet Jupiter. If you have binoculars or a small telescope, you may be able to spot some of Jupiter’s four Galilean moons, its largest satellites.
If you’re interested in studying the moon closely, take a look through a telescope on October 30th, when it will be in its first quarter phase. Throughout the months, you’ll have the chance to see fascinating optical phenomena on the moon’s surface known as the X and V shapes.
By early November, it will be time for the next supermoon.
The concept of genetically modifying wild lions sparks debate
Andrewfel/Shutterstock
Is there a need to genetically modify wild lions? While it may seem unnecessary, it provokes a quick reaction. Consider a scenario where a devastating disease, introduced by humans, threatens their survival. What if genetic alterations could boost immunity against this disease, providing a natural evolution path through time as more lions perish?
This debate is fracturing the environmentalist community, with discussions set to intensify. Next week, at a meeting of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)—the leading conservation organization—delegates will vote on a proposal to “suspend” genetic engineering in wildlife, including the introduction of modified microorganisms.
“I’m uncertain how the voting will unfold,” says Piero Genovesi from the Italian Institute of Environmental Protection, who backs an open letter opposing the proposal.
While the IUCN’s moratorium on synthetic biology carries no legal weight, it may still have significant repercussions. Various conservation organizations might halt projects involving genetic engineering, and some nations could incorporate such restrictions into their laws.
“Moratoriums would undoubtedly pose challenges on various fronts,” states Ben Novak, of the US-based nonprofit Revive & Restore, which aims to leverage biotechnology for the recovery of endangered and extinct species.
Why is this issue gaining attention now? The answer lies in CRISPR. In 2014, the potential for gene drives using CRISPR technology was demonstrated. Gene drives allow specific DNA segments to be passed down through generations, enabling them to spread even if detrimental. This technology could theoretically eliminate invasive species or spread beneficial traits like disease resistance.
Discussions emerged at a 2016 conference in Hawaii regarding employing gene drives to eradicate invasive mosquitoes that have decimated Hawaii’s native bird species, according to Genovesi. Reactions were mixed; some were enthusiastic, while others expressed deep concern.
This tension led to the proposed moratorium. “Gene drives are being promoted by some as a one-size-fits-all solution to environmental issues,” mentions Ricarda Steinbrecher from Econex, an organization also advocating for the moratorium.
However, the broad language of the proposed motion could affect much more than just gene drives. It might unintentionally restrict passive conservation efforts and the use of live vaccines.
Steinbrecher suggests the moratorium is a temporary halt, indicating another vote may take place later “when more data becomes available.” However, with many proponents of the ban being staunchly against genetic engineering, changing their perspectives may be challenging. “I’m concerned it could lead to an extended pause,” Genovesi states.
Imagine the prospect of using gene editing to make wild animals disease-resistant. While Steinbrecher raises concerns about unintended consequences, current evidence suggests the risks remain low. This is why some genetically edited foods are already being consumed, and the first CRISPR therapy received approval last year.
The same considerations regarding benefits and risks are applicable to conservation efforts. For instance, is it preferable to witness global warming decimating coral reefs rather than releasing genetically engineered symbiotic algae to enhance coral heat tolerance?
The scalability of such endeavors is crucial, asserts Novak. Manual transplanting of corals will not be enough to salvage the reefs. “Synthetic biology tools are essential for achieving the broad objective of restoring 30% of land and saving seed varieties,” he emphasizes.
Ultimately, this discourse revolves around conflicting visions of nature. Some regard it as a pristine entity, wary of genetic modification. Nonetheless, humans have already altered nature significantly. Our actions have unintentionally interfered with genetic selection through practices like hunting, pollution, pesticide use, and the introduction of invasive species and diseases.
These actions necessitate adaptations among many species for their survival; for instance, specific elephant populations are now nearly devoid of tusks.
However, this does not imply that further interference will yield positive outcomes. The release of gene drives carries significant risks, such as their potential spread beyond intended targets.
Researchers are cognizant of these hazards. Methods like self-limiting gene drives can be implemented to prevent unrestrained gene dispersion.
“We are confronted with a severe biodiversity crisis,” Genovesi argues. “We shouldn’t close ourselves off to innovative tools that could assist us in combatting substantial threats.”
Conservation and Rewilding in the Central Apennines: Italy
A journey through Italy’s central Apennines introduces the practical realities and philosophy behind rewilding.
IIf you accept the notion that the Game Awards serve as an interactive industry Oscar, then it’s reasonable to liken the Independent Game Festival to Cannes, with the Sumas MacNary Grand Prize being the equivalent of Parmedollar. Hence, one might expect that this year’s winner would receive significant attention upon release. Surprisingly, that’s not the case. Apparently, it’s an overwhelmingly early sale and I’m astonished by the absence of reviews. This highlights ongoing challenges regarding discoverability and the issues faced by critics during the busy fall season, rather than focusing on the game itself. Truly, it’s an absolute delight.
It’s certainly easy to sound like you should play this game rather than expressing a desire to want to play it. Crafted over a decade by Jenny Ziao Fusia in collaboration with Ap Thomson, Jie en Lee, Violet WP, and Ken Snyder, this semi-autobiographical narrative follows an Asian American high school student navigating weight loss amid the challenges of adolescence. It’s infused with effective energy and time management mechanics. Content notifications inform players of themes such as bullying, fat phobia, and dietary restrictions. Notably, it’s also one of the most humorous games of 2025.
The pizza date leads to watching her eat for the rest of the week… consuming me. Photo: 66
Consumes adeptly navigates a complex emotional landscape. The main character, Jenny, experiences meal times interpreted as puzzles. Reminiscent of Leon’s attachment case in Resident Evil 4, groceries shaped like Tetris blocks must fit into a grid symbolizing Jenny’s stomach. L-shaped kale and S-shaped tomatoes help her stay within her daily targets (notably, she focuses on “bites” instead of calories). Junk food, with its appealing form, can lead to regret as filling it results in precious time being consumed and potentially using up one of her limited cheat days. Any gaps in her stomach notification mean she might need a snack later.
Beyond merely managing her hunger, Jenny must also oversee her energy and mood levels, which is initially simple. Participating in chores, studying, and applying makeup turns into an enjoyable mini-game akin to Nintendo’s Warioware series, though it rarely presents a challenge. Items created or purchased with in-game currency help maintain Jenny’s happiness and health. However, time is relentless, making it increasingly tough to balance needs against wants. For example, reliance on energy drinks often leads to caffeine headaches. This creates unhappiness during activities other than resting.
A contest on the sinkside with an overwhelming mother… consumes me. Photo: 66
Regardless of whether things are going smoothly or not, the observations are artfully portrayed. The foreboding music accompanies weekly weigh-ins, physically pulling Jenny towards the scale. After cleaning the bathroom, her critically evaluating mother is there to inspect her work, even pressing a finger on the sink to confirm cleanliness. When Jenny first meets Oliver’s affluent parents, even the simple introduction of anxiety meters raises the heart rate, especially as she imagines her own mother as a detective in a trench coat. During their first outing, their awkwardness on-screen guides players toward a sweet kiss.
Love quickly transforms into another responsibility, creating tension that evolves in each chapter. Jenny must prioritize potential dates in her calendar, yet a visit to a pizzeria forces her to strictly monitor her meals for the week ahead. As Oliver heads off to college, their long-distance relationship means that every night brings the potential for “poison damage” as she struggles to prioritize valuable text messages or video calls. (By night, she presses her face against the glass, tearfully observing the rose petals falling from inside, brilliantly encapsulating the path of all adolescents during such times.)
Although it’s a game centered on routines, the continual repetition never makes me feel fully settled. It continually finds creative ways to utilize the system to convey themes without sacrificing humor. If you grapple with food-related issues or fitness, there are moments that resonate deeply. It’s about more than just what you consume or how much you exercise; life’s essentials often take precedence over personal desires.
Again, I’m cautious about framing this as a mere obligation to consume. This thought-provoking, engaging, and boldly original game provided an evening filled with laughter and tears, leaving me with lasting memories.
Mary Blankku, Fred Ramsdell, and Sato Shimajimajima have been announced as winners of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine by Committee Executive Director Thomas Perman.
Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to three groundbreaking researchers: Mary Blank, Fred Ramsdel, and Shimon Sakaguchi. They have made significant discoveries regarding a unique type of immune cell that prevents the immune system from attacking its own body.
“We have opened up an entirely new area in immunology,” stated Marie Warren Hellenius from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.
T cells, a type of immune cell, are crucial for detecting and neutralizing harmful viruses and bacteria. These cells are continuously produced throughout a person’s life.
At times, newly formed T cell receptors may mistakenly target the body’s own proteins instead of those from viruses or bacteria, resulting in autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
The body possesses mechanisms to eliminate autoreactive T cells, with newly generated ones migrating to the thymus for evaluation. This has long been believed to be the sole process for the removal of self-targeting T cells.
Yet in 1995, Sakaguchi, now at Osaka University, demonstrated through a mouse study that other circulating cells in the bloodstream must provide some form of protection against autoreactive T cells. When the thymus is removed post-birth, mice develop autoimmune conditions; however, this outcome is averted when healthy T cells are introduced. His research identified that these particular T cells feature the CD25 protein on their surface, thereby classifying them as CD25-regulated T cells.
Meanwhile, Blankku, currently affiliated with the Institute of Systems Biology in Seattle, and Ramsdell, who advises Sonoma Bitherapeutics in San Francisco, studied mouse strains predisposed to autoimmune diseases. In 2001, Brunkow and Ramsdell identified that these mice possess mutations in a gene located on the X chromosome, specifically FOXP3.
Individuals with mutations in this gene are particularly susceptible to autoimmune disorders due to a condition known as IPEX syndrome. In 2003, Sakaguchi connected these findings, showing that the FOXP3 gene is integral to the development of the CD25-regulated cells his team had identified. Many researchers previously remained skeptical of Sakaguchi’s assertions, according to Warren Hellenius. However, the findings from Brunkow and Ramsdell solidified the case.
The discovery of regulatory T cells could pave the way for improved treatments across a variety of conditions. Increasing the presence of regulatory T cells may help mitigate autoimmune responses that lead to diseases like type 1 diabetes. Conversely, reducing these cells can amplify the immune system’s response against cancer. Numerous clinical trials are currently being conducted.
“Their discoveries have been fundamental in understanding the workings of the immune system and explaining why serious autoimmune diseases don’t universally develop,” remarked Orkenpe, the chairman of the Nobel Committee, in a statement.
eLeanor, 24, is a historian from Poland and a university lecturer in Warsaw. Isabel, 25, works as a detective for the NYPD. Brooke, 39, is an American homemaker who enjoys the vibrant Miami lifestyle, supported by her often-absent husband.
All three women engage in unfaithfulness and exchange nude photos and explicit videos via the growing number of adult dating sites that present an increasingly realistic array of AI companions for subscribers willing to pay a monthly fee.
At the TES Adult Industry Conference held in Prague last month, the attendees noted a surge in new platforms allowing users to form relationships with AI-generated girlfriends, who strip in exchange for tokens bought through bank transfers.
The creators of this new venture assert that it marks an advancement over webcam services, where real women remove clothing and converse with men, potentially leading to exploitation in certain sectors of the industry. They also contend that AI performers do not suffer illnesses, do not require breaks, are not exhausted at the end of their shifts, nor do they experience humiliation from client demands.
“Would you rather choose porn rife with abuse and human trafficking, or interact with AI?” asked Steve Jones, who operates an AI porn site. “We’ve heard about human trafficking where girls are forced to be on camera for 10 hours a day. There’s never an AI girl that’s trafficked. There’s never an AI girl forced or humiliated in a scene.”
“Would you rather choose porn rife with abuse and trafficking, or interact with AI?” says Steve Jones. Photo: Photo by Bjoern Steinz/Panos
Most websites feature a ready-made girlfriend option, typically depicting smiling, young, white women, but also grant subscribers the chance to craft their own ideal online companion. This option reveals developers’ perspectives on the ideal female archetype. One site offers options ranging from film stars and yoga instructors to florists and lawyers. Personality traits include “Obliging: Submissive, Eager to Please,” “Innocent: See a Cheerful, Naive World,” and “Career-oriented: Nurturing, Protective, Always Comforting.” Users can specify age and even request a teenage model, along with choices for hair, eye color, skin tone, and breast size.
The increasing appeal of AI girlfriends has generated concern among women’s rights activists, who argue that they reinforce harmful stereotypes. In her book, The New Age of Fascism, Laura Bates notes that AI companions are “programmed to be charming, gentle, and subservient, always telling you what you want to hear.”
Amid rising worries regarding AI-generated images of child sexual abuse, the Prague conference developers spoke about an integrated moderation system that prevents users from creating illegal content by flagging keywords and phrases like “children” and “sister.” However, many platforms permit users to dress their AI girlfriends in school uniforms.
Products showcased at the TES conference in Prague. Photo: Photo by Bjoern Steinz/Panos
A representative from Candy.ai, one of the new AI dating platforms exhibited at the conference, mentioned that their AI girlfriends offer diverse services. “If you seek an adult-oriented relationship similar to porn, that option exists. Or if you prefer deep discussions, that’s available too. It all depends on the user’s wants,” he explained. While the majority of users are heterosexual men, AI boyfriends are also on offer. Some pre-made AI girlfriends are designed to undress quickly. “Others may say: ‘No, I don’t know you.’ Thus, you need to cultivate your relationship with them for something like that.”
The growth of AI girlfriend platforms has been fueled by advancements in large-scale language models, enabling more lifelike interactions with chatbots and rapid innovations in AI image generation. Most sites continue to focus on text and images, yet brief AI-generated videos are increasingly common. Demand is particularly high among users aged 18-24, many of whom are gamers familiar with avatar customization.
Over the past year, new startups entering the sector have surged dramatically. “AI products are emerging like mushrooms, dynamic and ephemeral. They appear, fizzle out, and then are replaced by another wave,” commented Alina Mitt of Joi Ai, a site dedicated to “AI-Lationships.” “To survive in this market, you need to be bold and resilient. It’s like a fierce battle.”
The developers presented rapid advancements in the realism of AI-generated pornographic images and the transition to engaging AI video clips. Daniel Keating, the CEO of a company providing AI girlfriend experiences, showcased the distinctions between mediocre and high-quality AI companions. His platform offers users numerous AI-generated women in their lingerie, stressing that inferior quality AI tends to exhibit “overly polished plastic smoothness” on the skin, while high-quality AI girlfriends incorporate “natural skin textures, imperfections, moles, freckles, and slight asymmetries that appear much more authentic.”
UK regulator Ofcom highlights updates to the UK’s online safety laws at TES Prague. Photo: Photo by Bjoern Steinz/Panos
His company managed to license the images of established adult stars to produce AI replicas, generating continuous income streams. “It’s profitable and cost-effective. Creators love this because they are relieved from the need to dress up and shoot content,” he noted.
An advertising executive from Ashley Madison expressed interest in the rapid expansion of a site focused on AI relationships, which caters to individuals seeking discreet connections. “AI dating is brand new territory for us. How do you compete against those who can mold their own fantasies instead of pursuing real relationships with women?” she inquired, requesting anonymity. “Some people wish to create something appealing in their minds, thus avoiding genuine connections.”
“You don’t need to go out on dates, acquire girlfriends, or build romantic relationships. AI serves as a safe space for young people to hone their social skills,” explained Jones, adding that AI allows for unfettered behavior without repercussions. “People might say things to AI that they wouldn’t dare convey to real individuals. ‘Oh silly girl, what’s the matter?’ In fantasy role-playing games, participants often prefer experiences distinct from reality.”
The Apple Watch Series 11 introduces a highly requested feature: extended battery life.
Aside from that, the new model serves as a direct successor to the Series 10, retaining its design, dimensions, and features. Most enhancements are software-based, solidifying its position as one of the top smartwatches available, despite limited physical changes.
Starting at just 369 pounds in the UK (449 euros/$399/$679), the Series 11 sits below the watch SE at the low end and 749 pounds Ultra 3 at the high end.
The Series 11 is available in Space Gray, a hue first seen with the iPhone 5s in 2013. Old trends make a comeback. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Similar to last year’s Series 10, this new version is only 9.7mm thick, making it comfortable to wear at night and easily tucked under cuffs. It’s lightweight and user-friendly.
The vibrant 2,000 knit OLED display is bright for indoor and outdoor use, and remains legible from various angles. The glass is reportedly twice as scratch-resistant as its predecessors, though it doesn’t quite match the hardness of the sapphire used in more expensive titanium models.
The new watch incorporates the same S10 chip as previous versions, now with optional 5G connectivity, ensuring strong reception for outdoor activities. Battery capacity has increased by 9% for 42mm models and 11% for 46mm models.
In sleep tracking tests without exercise, the 46mm version lasted two days. Most users can expect around two days and nights before needing a recharge, which takes 66 minutes with a power adapter over 20W (not included), reaching about 70% in just 30 minutes. During a run, it tracks for roughly eight hours—enough for one or two marathons.
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, WiFi 4, NFC, UWB, Optional 5G
WatchOS 26
The Flow Watch face is engaging, though reading the time at a glance can be challenging. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Series 11 ships with WatchOS 26, compatible with all models from the Series 6 onward. A new liquid glass design introduces semi-transparent elements and two additional monitoring interfaces: a large digital face called Flow that reacts to movement, and an Analog Face that segments hours, minutes, and seconds into custom dials.
One of the standout features is the wrist flick gesture. This allows you to quickly twist your wrist to dismiss notifications and return to the watch face without lifting your wrist to look at it, enabling you to silence alarms with a satisfying motion.
Hypertension, Sleep, and AI Workouts
Hypertension alerts utilize the optical sensor located on the back, the same one used for heart rate and blood oxygen readings; no pressure cuffs needed. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Apple Watch retains the extensive health monitoring tools of its predecessor while introducing new features and a revamped training app.
Hypertension alerts now observe potential high blood pressure over 30 days, notifying users if heart rate data indicates possible hidden issues.
The updated sleep score metric simplifies Apple’s sleep tracking, akin to offerings from competitors like Google and Samsung. Each morning, users receive a score out of 100 based on factors such as duration, bedtime, and interruptions, all easily understood within the iPhone health app.
A sleep score helps you gauge sleep quality, allowing for detailed assessments as needed. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Workout Buddy acts as an AI coach, leveraging past training data to offer motivational talk before and after workouts. It tracks your training frequency and effort level, providing audible updates during your exercise, including alerts for milestones like pace, heart rate, distance, and time.
Three voice options deliver updates through Bluetooth headphones in any of the 12 supported activities, including walking, running, and cycling. However, functionality may depend on being in proximity to an iPhone 15 Pro or later to avoid interruptions while training.
Sustainability
The recycled aluminum frame offers a premium, slim, and comfortable fit. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Apple states that the battery should last for 1,000 or more charge cycles while retaining at least 80% of its original capacity, and can be replaced for £95. Repair costs range from between £295 and £389, depending on the model.
The watch comprises over 40% recycled materials, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, lithium, rare earth elements, steel, tin, titanium, tungsten, among others. Apple provides trade-in options and free recycling of devices, addressing the environmental impact of its products.
Price
The Series 11 is available in two sizes (42 and 46mm) with options for materials and 5G support, which necessitates a compatible phone plan for eSIM. Prices start at £369 (€449/$399/$679), with the 5G model requiring an additional £100 (€120/$100/$170).
For reference, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 retails at £749, while the Apple Watch SE 3 starts at £219, and the Google Pixel Watch 4 is priced at £349. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is available for £294.
Verdict
The Series 11 keeps the successful Apple Watch formula intact, enhancing it with improved glass and longer battery life.
With its slim profile, quick charging, and two-day battery life, it proves convenient for sleep tracking and silent alarms. The wrist flick gesture stands out as a feature every watch should embrace, and compatibility with earlier Apple Watch straps and chargers is a significant advantage. Price drops in the UK are also appreciated.
Users may need time to adjust to the glass-like appearance of WatchOS 26, but the software operates similarly while introducing valuable additions like hypertension alerts. The Workout Buddy proves particularly useful, offering positive experiences though reliant on mobile exercise.
Overall, the Series 11 ranks among the finest smartwatches for iPhone users. Those with older models, like the Series 6, can expect a substantial upgrade. However, this year, it faces competition from the revamped Watch SE 3, which serves as a compelling alternative.
Pros: Exceptional screen visibility, sleek design, double tap and wrist flick gestures, top-notch health monitoring, impressive activity tracking, AI coaching via Workout Buddy, 50m water resistance, two-day battery life, optional 5G connectivity, long software support, eco-friendly materials, and backward compatibility with previous Apple Watch straps.
Cons: Premium pricing, limited to iPhone users, lacks customizable faces for third-party watches, and maintains a similar aesthetic to prior models.
The century-old oak crashed down on the very first day of his vacation. James and his partner Andrew had just finished breakfast moments earlier, causing a ruckus with tables and chairs that ended up damaging the windshield of a rental car on the terrace.
Their Airbnb cottage in Provence, France, was entangled in branches that shattered the living room windows and breached the roof. “I was convinced there was a ceiling above us,” James remarked. “If it had fallen moments earlier, we could have been seriously hurt or killed.”
A day was needed for the host to clear the tree from the cottage and make temporary repairs, but the shaken couple opted to book a hotel for the remainder of their vacation, concerned that their accommodation might be structurally compromised.
Airbnb showed little concern. “I understand this has caused you inconvenience,” was the start of countless identical AI-generated replies before the comical, unresolved case was ultimately labeled as “keep safe.”
The host also seemed unbothered. “All that happened was you heard a loud noise and saw the tree on the terrace,” she responded to their refund request. “You chose to remember worries and trauma instead of celebrating unique experiences.”
Now that summer has passed, the tale of Holiday Horror Story is overflowing on Guardian Money.
Unfortunate travelers report being stuck or locked out of accommodations—whether real or not—and facing issues during mysterious nights in unknown cities. Accounts of dirty rooms, unsafe items, and illegal sublets abound. A common binding factor for these ruined trips is that they were booked via online platforms that deny refunds.
The rise of services like Airbnb and Booking.com has encouraged travelers to plan multiple getaways. These companies showcase their expansive global real estate in efforts to fulfill wanderlust on a budget.
However, consumer protections have not adapted alongside this growing industry.
The 100-year-old oak, which struck during James and Andrew’s stay in Provence.
Package deal customers have legal protections for travel nightmares as outlined in Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements; however, those booking accommodations through third-party sites often find themselves at the mercy of the host.
While some platforms promote extra protections, your agreement lies with the accommodation provider.
James and Andrew had spent £931 for a week at Proven Zal Cottage. Feeling unsafe upon returning, he switched to a hotel. They remain unsure if the damaged rental car liability falls on them. Nonetheless, Airbnb’s Air Cover pledge to refund customers in the event of serious rental issues, indicated that it was up to the host to grant any refunds, according to the host who insisted that Airbnb made the decision.
After 10 weeks of automated responses to James’ complaints, Airbnb decided to close the case, stating that the matter had dragged on for far too long. The host concluded that repairs totaled 5,000 euros (£4,350) and offered no reimbursements. Instead, she suggested the couple should celebrate their survival and “turn the event into a beautiful story.”
Eventually, Airbnb issued a full refund along with a £500 voucher after scrutiny of its health and safety policies. A spokesperson expressed, “We apologize for the initial handling of this case, which did not meet our usual high standards. We will conduct an internal review.”
The sightseeing time for one Booking.com customer was cut short due to a broken lock. Photo: Alejandro García/EPA
I was trapped
Kim Pocock booked a flat through Booking.com for a two-night stay in Barcelona. She and her daughter found themselves locked inside for almost the entire duration of their only day in the city due to a malfunctioning front door security lock.
“The host sent a maintenance man, but he couldn’t assist,” she recalled. “Eventually, a locksmith arrived, attempting to access the lock from the outside. He even had to purchase rope, which he used to hoist tools up to our window.”
Pocock sought a full refund for the stress and ruined trip. Booking.com informed her that it was up to the host to decide. Not only did the host refuse, but they also deducted a deposit of 250 euros to cover the replacement lock. Although that sum was eventually returned by Booking.com, Pocock felt the burden of the 446 euro rental fee.
“Had there been an emergency during our confinement, our lives would have been at significant risk, yet the hosts blamed us for using the lock,” she lamented.
Another Booking.com customer, Philip (name withheld), found himself locked out of a London flat he had booked for £70 just as he was about to check in. The owner informed him that he was abroad and suggested Philip find alternate accommodations for the night. Consequently, he spent an additional £123 at a hotel, only to face four months of futile efforts to obtain a refund.
“Booking.com essentially claims there’s nothing they can do because the owners are unresponsive,” he remarked. “I can’t comprehend how businesses can function this way without any accountability. The additional twist is that the property is still listed on the platform.”
Following intervention from Guardian Money, Booking.com refunded both customers. The platform confirmed that the host who had locked Philip out of the rental could not be reached. When questioned about why problematic accommodations are not delisted, the response was that they rely on guest feedback to ensure property suitability.
Reviews do not always tell the complete story. A consumer group reported last year that Booking.com’s default system shown reviews classified as “relevant,” which makes it easy for users to miss a surge of recent reviews that indicate a listing might be a scam or unavailable.
Booking.com responded by stating that it allows customers to sort reviews by newest or lowest ratings to facilitate informed decisions about the property.
Is it the same? The report noted that listings frequently flagged as fraud were still present. Booking.com responded by affirming that it relies on hosts to adhere to their terms of service and maintain up-to-date availability.
Booking.com insists that customers must review guest feedback to ensure the property is “suitable.” Photo: Dado Ruvić/Reuters
Grey Area
The issue for travelers who receive substandard services is that their contracts are with the accommodation providers rather than the booking platforms.
Both Airbnb and Booking.com claim they will assist in finding alternative housing during emergencies, but securing compensation for a problematic stay is a more complicated battle. Both platforms generally rely on hosts to act responsibly.
Consumer advocate and journalist Martin James argues that the sector requires stricter regulations. “With online platforms essentially policing themselves, if a dispute isn’t resolved, your only option is legal action,” James explains. “But who would pursue that? There’s a contract between you and the host, meaning you need to initiate legal steps in your own country.”
He adds, “You might contend that the online marketplace has failed to manage your complaints adequately, but pursuing this is a legally ambiguous matter. Both companies are registered abroad and have substantial resources.”
The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Act, which came into effect in April, mandates online platforms to “exercise professional diligence” concerning consumer transactions promoted or conducted on their platforms.
A DBT spokesperson stated: “This government supports consumers and has implemented stringent new financial penalties for breaches of consumer law to safeguard people’s money.”
They further stated: “Companies providing services to UK consumers must adhere to UK legislation. We have strengthened their competitive stance and market power to ensure they face significant penalties for non-compliance.”
Last month, when hackers targeted UK nursery schools and leaked child data online, they faced accusations of reaching a new low.
Nonetheless, the wider education sector is more familiar with being a target.
As per the British Government Survey, educational institutions are at a higher risk of cyberattacks or security breaches than private businesses.
Over the past year, six out of ten middle schools have experienced attacks or breaches, while more than 80% of universities and 90% of higher education institutions have faced similar issues. In contrast, only four out of ten companies reported violations or breaches, a statistic comparable to elementary schools.
Toby Lewis, global threat analysis director at cybersecurity firm Darktrace, notes that the UK education sector isn’t necessarily a specific target. “They are caught in the dragnet of cybercrime,” he explained, mentioning the “element of randomness and opportunism” involved in cybercrime victim selection.
Last week, the BBC highlighted that Kido, a nursery business targeted by hacking groups identified as Shinekase, had its system compromised after “early access brokers” sold access to Kido’s system, a scenario common in cybercrime circles.
Data from the annual Cybersecurity Violation Survey is derived from over 30 higher education institutions, almost 300 secondary and elementary schools in the UK, and various universities. The survey defines a cyberattack as an “attempt” to breach a target IT system, which includes sending “phishing” emails designed to deceive recipients into disclosing sensitive information, such as passwords.
Phishing emails constitute the most prevalent type of attacks on universities and schools.
Ransomware attacks have become widely recognized forms of cybercrime in the UK, wherein attackers encrypt IT systems to steal data and demand Bitcoin payments for decryption and the return of data.
The West Lothian Council’s education network has encountered ransomware attacks this year, resulting in data being obtained from several schools, with recent attacks also reported at Newcastle University, Manchester University, and Wolverhampton University.
Lewis suggests that state schools might be more susceptible due to funding pressures and a lack of expertise, while universities also face risks because they contain thousands of young students who may not be cybersecurity-savvy, along with computer networks designed to facilitate academic collaboration.
Colleges appear to be a favored target, and higher education institutions are reportedly the most frequently affected, with three in ten experiencing violations or attacks weekly, according to government data. Nonetheless, the education sector may be more conscious of government initiatives on cybercrime prevention than businesses and charities.
Pepe Dilacio, general secretary of the British Schools Association and the Association of University Leaders, remarked that ransomware attacks pose a “major risk” and emphasized the ongoing efforts to safeguard systems and data.
James Bowen, assistant secretary at the National Association of Principals, welcomed additional government funding to assist school leaders in identifying and responding to cyber threats.
The Ministry of Education stated that the school’s support includes a dedicated team to handle cyber incidents and collaborate closely with the UK’s National Cybersecurity Centre to provide complimentary training for school staff. “We take cybersecurity in schools seriously and understand the significant disruption attacks can cause, and we offer a wide range of support to schools,” said a spokesperson.
Following backlash from the hack, Kido hackers have deleted data obtained from the company, including child profiles.
However, government data indicates that the education sector continues to be a target. Ministers are preparing schools, the NHS, and local councils to potentially pay ransoms under government proposals aimed at combating hackers. In the meantime, attacks continue.
Parkinson’s disease is currently the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the United States; currently, 90,000 individuals have been diagnosed—a staggering 50% increase since the mid-1980s. The situation mirrors global trends, with an expected 25 million diagnoses by 2050, effectively doubled compared to today’s figures.
In summary, this is a significant issue. However, these numbers aren’t entirely surprising, considering longer life spans and growing populations. What is truly alarming, and frankly, unsettling, is how unprepared we are for this impending wave.
The available treatments are limited. Diagnostic tools are inadequate. Honestly, we still don’t really understand what causes Parkinson’s disease.
Yet, before you plunge into the depths of neurodegenerative despair, there is hope. Scientists worldwide are actively working to change the narrative surrounding Parkinson’s.
In particular, researchers are revolutionizing how we can detect Parkinson’s disease. Armed with cutting-edge technologies, AI, and a fundamentally evolving understanding of disease manifestation throughout the body, they’re aiming to detect it decades before any symptoms present themselves, rather than years.
Presently, there is no single definitive test for Parkinson’s disease. Instead, doctors diagnose it based on physical symptoms like tremors, slow movement, and muscle stiffness, often requiring assessments of tasks such as writing and speaking.
“Today’s neurodegenerative disease is what cancer used to be 50 years ago,” states Professor Hermona Solek, a leading researcher in next-generation diagnostic tools. “We often finalize a diagnosis only when all involved nerve cells are already dead, leaving us unable to properly treat the patient.”
But what if there were a way to diagnose Parkinson’s disease before it could do any significant harm? What if it could be caught on its way, before brain cells face irreversible damage?
This is no longer just a theory. In fact, there are multiple methods emerging.
AI Desk Accessories
Not all breakthroughs in diagnostics require a blood sample; some new innovations could be found right on your desk.
At the University of California, Los Angeles, Professor Junchen‘s lab claims to have developed a diagnostic pen that detects Parkinson’s disease by analyzing your writing.
This unique pen’s soft tip is crafted from an innovative magnetoelastic material that alters the magnetic field in response to pressure or bending—a phenomenon previously known in rigid metals but now applied to soft polymers, creating a new type of highly sensitive and user-friendly sensor.
“Utilizing magnetoelastic effects with soft materials represents a new operational mechanism,” Chen explains. “It can translate small biomechanical pressures, like arterial vibrations, into high-fidelity electrical signals.”
The pen, filled with magnetized ink, captures movements occurring both on paper and in the air, subsequently sending this data to a computer. Here, AI models analyze specific patterns linked to Parkinson’s motor symptoms.
Smart pens can be especially beneficial in countries where affordable diagnostic tools are needed—UCLA Jun Chen Lab
In a pilot study, the system successfully distinguished individuals with Parkinson’s disease from healthy controls with over 96% accuracy. Even better, Chen believes this pen can be mass-produced for merely $5 (£3.70).
“We have already filed for a patent and aim to commercialize this pen,” Chen states. “Simultaneously, we are working on optimizing it to improve our diagnostics’ accuracy.”
If handwriting isn’t your preferred method, Chen’s team has you covered. They’ve also created a Smart Keyboard utilizing the same principles.
This keyboard tracks subtle changes in pressure and rhythm as users type—often imperceptible to the naked eye—and relays that information to machine learning algorithms.
Initial tests indicate that it can identify characteristic motor abnormalities in Parkinson’s disease, and the team is combining this technology with a mobile app for continuous remote monitoring.
Together, these intelligent desk tools offer a glimpse into what Chen describes as the “personalized, predictive, preventive, participatory” future of Parkinson’s healthcare; a future where diagnosis is as simple as taking notes or sending emails.
This portable, soft keyboard employs magnetic elasticity to detect Parkinson’s disease and sends results to your smartphone—UCLA Jun Chen Lab
Parkinson’s Eye Test Detects Changes Two Decades in Advance
Picture diagnosing Parkinson’s disease during a routine eye exam, potentially decades before symptoms manifest. This is the promise of new non-invasive techniques developed by Victoria Soto Linan and her colleague at Laval University in Canada, using an established eye test known as electroretinography (ERG).
According to Soto Linan, this eye test serves as a “window to the brain,” as it’s part of the central nervous system. Issues like blurred vision and diminished contrast sensitivity manifest long before the well-known symptoms of tremors and stiffness.
The Soto Linan team collected data on how the retina responds to light flashes from both mice engineered to develop Parkinson-like symptoms and newly diagnosed human patients.
They identified unique retinal signals demonstrating “sick signatures,” particularly in women. Crucially, this weakened signal appeared in the mice prior to any behavioral disease signs.
This leads Soto Linan to believe that this eye test could detect Parkinson’s as much as 20 years before symptoms arise.
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And unlike other early diagnostic methods, this one is already well ahead of the game.
“ERGs are now employed in clinics to diagnose eye diseases,” she explains. “They also have the major advantage of being non-invasive.”
The patient sits before a dome that flashes lights, capturing how the retina responds. This could easily be integrated into a few minutes of your annual vision test.
The team is currently focusing on enhancing the testing process, with hopes of linking it to machine learning algorithms that will accelerate results, perhaps even making them portable to smartphones.
While the research is still in its early stages, its potential ramifications are enormous. As Soto Linan states, “This tool could identify at-risk individuals up to 20 years before symptoms emerge. Imagine how much less damage could be done by then.”
“Even if there is no treatment available, early intervention can often improve the quality of life in the long run.”
Detecting Parkinson’s Through Vocal Patterns
Can your voice indicate Parkinson’s disease before your physical body does? Recently, preprint research has explored whether AI can identify Parkinson’s simply by analyzing a person’s speech.
Around 90% of individuals with Parkinson’s develop motor speech disorders known as dysarthria, which can lead to issues like irregular pitch and breath control.
Globally, over 8.5 million individuals live with Parkinson’s disease—Getty
These vocal changes often arise earlier than more noticeable motor symptoms like tremors, thus serving as promising early indicators.
The research team collected brief audio recordings from 31 to 195 individuals, which included 33 individuals with the disease. Their data served to train four different AI models to recognize disease-related vocal patterns. When tested on new recordings from the same participants, the models identified Parkinson’s with an accuracy exceeding 90%.
These changes are subtle and occur early, and researchers suggest that speech-based assessments could provide low-cost, non-invasive diagnostic options.
Blood Tests for Diagnosing Parkinson’s
In April 2025, SOREQ and her colleagues—including her son—announced a groundbreaking new study.
The findings were surprising; they revealed a simple and inexpensive blood test utilizing PCR technology (remember this from COVID-19?) that can accurately detect Parkinson’s disease a few years prior to symptom onset.
This test functions by measuring the ratio between two markers that SOREQ and her team discovered in human blood.
Specifically, individuals with Parkinson’s exhibit abnormally high levels of certain molecules known as transfer RNA (tRNA) fragments, identifiable by a specific repeating pattern called conserved sequence motifs.
A new blood test can detect early Parkinson’s by analyzing the unique imbalance of small RNA molecules in your blood—Credit: Getty
Simultaneously, the team uncovered reduced levels of tRNA associated with mitochondria (the “powerhouses” of cells, responsible for producing most of your body’s energy) in the blood of Parkinson’s patients.
“We proposed that if there’s an increase in one sequence and a decrease in another, we could calculate the ratio and identify a probable diagnosis,” says Soreq.
If this ratio exceeds a specific threshold, it strongly indicates a diagnosis.
According to SOREQ, a traditional diagnosis of Parkinson’s can cost up to $6,000 (£4,400). The two PCR tests required for their method? Only $80 (£60).
“This is monumental. It makes a substantial difference,” she states. With some luck, the team anticipates this will become widely available within the next decade, potentially providing a crucial lifeline for patients globally.
On Tuesday, OpenAI unveiled its latest version of AI-driven video generators, incorporating a social feed that enables users to share lifelike videos.
However, mere hours after Sora 2’s release, many videos shared on feeds and older social platforms depicted copyrighted characters in troubling contexts, featuring graphic violence and racist scenes. Sora’s usage of OpenAI’s services and ChatGPT for image or text generation explicitly bans content that “promotes violence” or otherwise “causes harm.”
According to prompts and clips reviewed by the Guardian, Sora generated several videos illustrating the horrors of bombings and mass shootings, with panicked individuals fleeing university campuses and crowded locations like Grand Central Station in New York. Other prompts created scenes reminiscent of war zones in Gaza and Myanmar, where AI-generated children described their homes being torched. One video, labeled as “Ethiopian Footage Civil War News Style,” showcased a bulletproof-vested reporter speaking into a microphone about government and rebel gunfire in civilian areas. Another clip, prompted by “Charlottesville Rally,” depicted Black protesters in gas masks, helmets, and goggles screaming in distress.
Currently, video generators are only accessible through invitations and have not been released to the public. Yet, within three days of a restricted debut, it skyrocketed to the top of Apple’s App Store, surpassing even OpenAI’s own ChatGPT.
“So far, it’s been amazing to witness what collective human creativity can achieve,” stated Sora’s director Bill Peebles in a Friday post on X. “We will be sending out more invitation codes soon, I assure you!”
The SORA app provides a glimpse into a future where distinguishing truth from fiction may become increasingly challenging. Researchers in misinformation warn that such realistic content could obscure reality and create scenarios wherein these AI-generated videos may be employed for fraud, harassment, and extortion.
“It doesn’t hold to historical truth and is far removed from reality,” remarked Joan Donovan, an assistant professor at Boston University focusing on media manipulation and misinformation. “When malicious individuals gain access to these tools, they use them for hate, harassment, and incitement.”
Slop Engine or “ChatGPT for Creativity”?
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the launch of Sora 2 as “truly remarkable,” and in a blog post, stated it “feels like a ‘chat for creativity’ moment for many of us, embodying a sense of fun and novelty.”
Altman acknowledged the addictive tendencies of social media linked to bullying, noting that AI video generation can lead to what is known as “slops,” producing repetitive, low-quality videos that might overwhelm the platform.
“The team was very careful and considerate in trying to create an enjoyable product that avoids falling into that pitfall,” Altman wrote. He stated that OpenAI has taken steps to prevent misuse of someone’s likeness and to guard against illegal content. For instance, the app declined to generate a video featuring Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin sharing cotton candy.
Nonetheless, within the three days following SORA’s launch, numerous videos had already disseminated online. Washington Post reporter Drew Harwell created a video depicting Altman as a military leader in World War II and also produced a video featuring “Ragebait, fake crime, women splattered on white geese.”
Sora’s feeds include numerous videos featuring copyrighted characters from series such as Spongebob Squarepants, South Park, and Rick and Morty. The app seamlessly generated videos of Pikachu imposing tariffs in China, pilfering roses from the White House Rose Garden, and partaking in a Black Lives Matter protest alongside SpongeBob. One video documented by 404 Media showed SpongeBob dressed as Adolf Hitler.
Neither Paramount, Warner Bros, nor Pokémon Co responded to requests for comment.
David Karpf, an associate professor at George Washington University’s Media Affiliated Fairs School, noted he observed a video featuring copyrighted characters promoting cryptocurrency fraud, asserting that OpenAI’s safety measures regarding SORA are evident.
“Guardrails aren’t effective when individuals construct copyrighted characters that foster fraudulent schemes,” stated Karpf. “In 2022, tech companies made significant efforts to hire content moderators; however, in 2025, it appears they have chosen to disregard these responsibilities.”
Copyright, Imitation
Just before the release of SORA 2, OpenAI contacted talent agencies and studios to inform them they could opt-out if they wished to prevent the replication of their copyrighted materials by video generators. The Wall Street Journal reports.
OpenAI informed the Guardian that content owners can report copyright violations through the “copyright dispute form,” but individual artists and studios cannot opt-out comprehensively. Varun Shetty, OpenAI’s Head of Media Partnerships, commented:
Emily Bender, a professor at the University of Washington and author of the book “The AI Con,” expressed that Sora creates a perilous environment where “distinguishing reliable sources is challenging, and trust wanes once one is found.”
“Whether they generate text, images, or videos, synthetic media machines represent a tragic facet of the information ecosystem,” the vendor observed. “Their output interacts with technological and social structures in ways that weaken and erode trust.”
cResidents globally have adapted to take-out food and speedy grocery deliveries. However, many are still getting accustomed to seeing a robot arrive at their doorstep. Ahti Heinla, co-founder of Skype, is determined to change that with his new endeavor.
Heinla is the CEO of Starship Technologies, a startup he asserts is more cost-effective than using human delivery drivers, particularly in smaller towns and villages where delivery had previously been impractical.
“We addressed every challenge that existed,” Heinla remarked while having lunch at a London hotel. “You can mark the year and the months, but it’s clear: this will happen.”
Residents in Manchester, Leeds, Cambridge, and Milton Keynes in the UK, along with those in Estonia and Finland, have already begun receiving their food and groceries via these robots. They are becoming increasingly mainstream, even attending garden parties at 10 Downing Street and featuring in episodes of popular shows. Starship has executed 8 million deliveries with just 200 employees, aiming to expand significantly.
Heinla, having already made substantial profit from co-founding a company that became a household name, speaks of his ambition with enthusiasm.
In 2000, Heinla worked with Niklas Zennström, a video game developer and Skype co-founder, and fellow Estonian Jaan Tallin, to swiftly develop new coding. This effort led to the creation of the file-sharing software Kazaa, followed by similar techniques used for Skype. The six-member founding team sold Skype to eBay in 2005 for $3.1 billion (£2.3 billion).
Reflecting on the era of emerging tech, Heinla mentioned that Skype’s closure this year brought back memories. While he didn’t disclose his earnings, he indicated that he could travel in a private jet if he so desired.
Ahti Heinla believes robotics can “enhance everyone’s lives” through autonomous delivery. Photo: None
Yet, he insists, “Even if they’re capable, I’m not just chasing after money. I don’t need more wealth. Why should I want a palace? What’s the purpose?”
Instead, Heinla emphasized that achieving effective autonomous driving is a key way robotics can “integrate into everyone’s lives.”
After departing from Skype, Heinla explored various ventures, including attempts at social networking. In 2014, he entered a NASA contest to design an affordable Mars rover. Although NASA didn’t select his design, it was capable of traversing both extraterrestrial and urban terrains using radar, cameras, and ultrasound sensors that learned from their experiences.
By 2017, the robot was navigating in Estonia, accompanied by a model referred to as the “Safety Walker.” Heinla boasts that it became the first unsupervised robot operating autonomously in public settings. In 2018, the company commenced a pilot commercial service on the predictable roads of Milton Keynes, collaborating with Estonia’s high-tech company Bolt, and UK co-op supermarket chains along with US food delivery companies like Grubhub.
A robotics delivery vehicle in Milton Keynes, UK. Photo: Justin Long/Aramie
Starship may boast the world’s largest fleet of self-driving vehicles; however, as technology progresses, competition intensifies. Rival companies include the Saudi Arabia-backed Noon, and US startups like Nuro. Additionally, there’s stiff competition from numerous firms developing autonomous vehicles, including Tesla and Baidu.
A compelling competitor is Manna Aero from Dublin, a startup already utilizing flying drones for deliveries like coffee and pizza. Amazon and Google’s sister company, Wing, have also ventured into drone-based services.
A recurring issue for many of these businesses is encountering inconsistent regulations. Starship has had to negotiate with various UK councils, while in Finland, they service one million residents under national laws established for robot use on sidewalks, serving a population of 5.6 million. Meanwhile, the UK has far fewer robots catering to its 69 million population.
“We’re ready to invest in the UK for large-scale expansion, but we require regulatory clarity,” Heinla stated. “The number of robots in the UK is lower than in Finland, but there’s potential for growth. Many more robots could operate here.”
He highlighted a potential client in the UK that initially plans to deploy robots at 200 locations, with aspirations to expand to 800 sites, including areas beyond major towns and cities.
Testing a Starship Technology robot crossing the road in Northampton, UK. Photo: Brian Tomlinson/Starship Technologies
“That’s the unique capability of a robot,” Heinla stated. “Our goal is to introduce delivery services to small towns in the UK. We are prepared to invest in scaling these operations.”
While many economists and futurists warn about robots replacing human jobs, Heinla contends that Starship robots are addressing the growing demand for deliveries, allowing humans to focus on longer and more complex tasks. He further asserts that these robots help smaller businesses “thrive economically and compete against larger establishments,” enhancing overall capabilities.
Starship has raised just 200 million euros (£175 million) in funding, a modest sum compared to the billions amassed recently by rapid delivery companies that still rely on human workers. Many of these companies have fizzled out after initially attracting substantial investments, such as Getir and Gorillas.
The initial investment in a robot is relatively high—thousands of pounds, though not exceeding 10,000 euros, according to Heinla. However, the cost per delivery can compete with traditional human services. He declined to provide precise figures but stated that the Starship delivery model is cash-generative.
“While we’re not fully profitable yet, we are confident,” he clarified.
Some retailers question whether robots can outperform human delivery services offered by companies like Recrioo and Uber Eats. Nonetheless, Heinla argues that robots eliminate costs associated with downtime, making them viable options for urban restaurants and retailers in low-density areas.
“Almost every delivery service could benefit from this,” he asserted. “At a certain point, using robots becomes significantly cheaper, making it the obvious choice.”
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Recent global assessments of the food system reveal that fewer than 1% of individuals consume diets beneficial to both the planet and human health.
Nevertheless, adopting a healthier dietary approach could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually and could decrease global greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 20%.
The findings are part of a 2025 Report by the Eat-Lancet Committee, which consolidates insights from nutritionists, climate experts, economists, physicians, social scientists, and agricultural scholars from over 35 countries.
The research team evaluated the effects of current food systems on human health and the environment, concluding that food production poses risks to five crucial Earth systems that are essential for human survival.
These five critical threats include climate change, land degradation, water scarcity, nitrogen and phosphorus pollution, and human-induced contaminants like pesticides and microplastics.
However, transforming the food system to ensure healthy diets for everyone could restore these systems to a safe state and enhance human well-being.
“If everyone adopts a healthy diet, by 2050, 100 billion people could sustain themselves on 7% less land than what is currently utilized,” stated Dr. Fabrice Declerck, EAT’s Chief Science Officer, in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “This has never happened in the history of food production. We have very few resources needed to feed more individuals.”
Justice was a significant aspect of the report, emphasizing the need for equitable wages for food workers and fairer access to food resources – Credit: Anuchasiribisanwan via Getty
Scientists have estimated that 6.9 billion individuals consume excessive amounts of food, particularly meat, dairy, sugar, and ultra-processed items, while 3.7 billion struggle to find access to nutritious food.
As a result, the report advocates for adherence to a planetary health diet (PhD), which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and whole grains.
In a PhD, half of your plate should consist of vegetables, fruits, and nuts, while 30% should be dedicated to whole grains. The remaining portion should be a protein source, with a focus on legumes like beans and lentils.
Meat, fish, and dairy are optional within the PhD framework, with established limits, but the diet allows for flexibility. For instance, one can remain within guidelines even with a weekly intake of up to 200g of beef.
Declerck notes that the diet is adaptable to individual tastes, encouraging people to incorporate their cultural preferences.
“In fact, I believe traditional diets often more accurately reflect health,” he mentioned.
The planet’s healthy food guidelines aim to enhance human health while also benefiting the environment, as stated in the report – Credit: Carl Hendon
Currently, only 1% of individuals meet the report’s dietary suggestions. Declerck emphasized that scientists are not ready to pinpoint the locations of these individuals, given the numerous variations among countries.
“But these individuals reside in societies where they can access healthy diets and earn a livable wage,” he added.
Declerck further remarked that the best examples of healthy eating are often found in middle-income countries, particularly within the Mediterranean basin, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.
For middle-income nations, the challenge lies in avoiding a shift toward a Western diet while maintaining cultural dietary traditions.
Amidst concerns regarding the climate crisis, Declerck stated that the report presents a “surprising” opportunity to enhance both human health and environmental well-being simultaneously.
“We encourage individuals to consume a wider variety of foods, celebrate their own cultural contributions, explore diverse culinary traditions, and enjoy the richness of food diversity,” he asserted. “This is beneficial not only for your personal health but also contributes significantly to the health of our planet as a whole,” Declerck concluded.
The research’s co-author, Professor Johann Lockstrom, co-chair of the committee and director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, stated: “The evidence is irrefutable. It is not only feasible to transform the food system, but it is crucial for ensuring a safe, fair, and sustainable future for all.”
Justice formed another key component of the report, highlighting the fact that the wealthiest 30% of the population accounts for over 70% of food-related environmental impacts.
“Those of us who are unhealthy and walk blocking others’ rights to a secure environment must take action,” the report emphasized.
The findings call for immediate measures to reform the global food system for the benefit of human health, justice, and environmental sustainability.
Researchers from Argentina, Brazil, and the UK have identified a new genus and species of Abelisaurid Theropod Dinosaur.
Geological map indicating the location of Vitosaura Colozacani in the Los Lanos Formation, La Rioja, Argentina. Image credit: Jiménez Velandia et al., doi: 10.5710/amgh.24.09.2025.3653.
The newly identified dinosaur, Vitosaura Colozacani, existed approximately 80 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period.
This ancient species is part of the Abelisaurid family, a group of carnivorous dinosaurs that predominantly thrived in Gondwana throughout the Cretaceous.
Fossil evidence of this family currently comprises over 25 species, with the most comprehensive and well-preserved findings located in Patagonia, Argentina.
“The Abelisauridae is a clade first established in 1985, known for its distinctive features such as a robust and tall skull, well-protected maxillary and frontal areas, a highly compressed axial skeleton, and reduced forelimbs.”
“The discovery of numerous Abelisaurus species over recent decades, mainly on Gondwana’s landmasses, has significantly enhanced our understanding of this theropod lineage.”
“The Abelisauridae represented the predominant clade of theropod dinosaurs during the Cretaceous in Gondwana, with extensive records found in North Africa, India, and Madagascar, extending even into Laurasia, present-day Central Europe.”
“Beyond these findings, this group was remarkably successful in South America, boasting a rich fossil record.”
Fossilized remains of Vitosaura Colozacani were collected during field excursions in 2009 and 2010 at the Los Llanos Formation in La Rioja, northwest Argentina.
“The theropod remains include the first dorsal center, the second dorsal vertebra, a partial sacrum, left ilium, pubic bone, and other uncertain elements,” the paleontologist noted.
“These specimens were found alongside some post-titanosaur remains.”
Vitosaura Colozacani was a medium-sized Abelisaur measuring approximately 4.5-5.5 m (15-18 feet) in length.
The species inhabited a seasonally semi-arid environment where annual rainfall varied between 230 and 450 mm.
“The discovery of Vitosaura Colozacani expands the geographical range of Abelisaurus within the Campania Formation of the Los Lanos Formation in La Rioja; however, the implications of this new species are limited due to its incompleteness and the state of analysis reflected in various phylogenetic studies focusing on Abelisaurus interactions.”
“We believe further research is necessary to enhance the topological robustness of Abelisauridae phylogeny and to discover new materials that could be allocated to Vitosaura Colozacani to more thoroughly test the phylogenetic hypotheses discussed in our study.”
Harold Zimenez Verandia et al. 2025. A new late Cretaceous species of Abelisaurus from the province of La Rioja in northwestern Argentina. Ameguinea 62(5): 1-23; doi: 10.5710/amgh.24.09.2025.3653.
While living with my parents, my mother claimed she could always sense when my period was imminent. I vividly recall the chaos that ensued when she mistakenly purchased chicken breast instead of thighs on the evening I was tasked with cooking.
Such dramatic reactions are typical of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is a central topic in the book The Brain of the Times: The New Science of How We Understand PMS. The author, Sarahill, who has previously examined the impact of birth control on the brain, outlines methods for managing PMS symptoms with a focus on lifestyle adjustments.
Women’s health has been largely overlooked in the scientific arena for years. Hill, who possesses a PhD in evolutionary psychology and leads a health and relationship lab at Texas Christian University, is in a good position to address these gaps. Unfortunately, her arguments can sometimes feel superficial.
At one point, she links PMS to the notion that women are told to burn an average of 2,000 calories. This implies that researchers should consider an additional 140 calories during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Hill posits that adherence to these guidelines leads to cravings and misconceptions about food, which can exacerbate the issue.
Any woman paying such close attention to her caloric intake is unlikely to dismiss a 140-calorie snack for the sake of anecdotes. To me, Hill’s reasoning appears to overly simplify the onset of PMS.
Although she references plenty of scientific studies, Hill seldom shares details regarding participant numbers or the duration of interventions, which are critical since small studies often overlook various genetic factors.
The potential genetic influence on PMS is another topic that Hill only lightly touches on. While no specific genes linked to PMS have been identified, the condition is reported to occur more frequently in identical twins compared to fraternal twins. Given this, it’s not surprising that genetic factors could also play a role in different menstrual cycle aspects.
Hill frequently suggests symptom relief through inadequately tested supplements, increased sun exposure, and varying exercise routines throughout the menstrual cycle (though the last point may hold some merit). However, acknowledging that severe symptoms could stem from genetic factors rather than merely lifestyle choices would be beneficial.
One thing I concur with Hill about is the need for further research at various menstrual cycle stages to understand how these phases affect responses to psychological treatments like drug metabolism. I also agree that it may be easier to cope with mood swings by recognizing them as natural reactions to hormonal changes, potentially alleviating my anxiety about chicken.
I didn’t finish The Brain of the Times with any groundbreaking insights on reducing PMS. Nevertheless, every book on women’s health contributes to destigmatizing issues like PMS and could encourage more extensive research.
Like many, I prefer not to revisit my teenage years. However, despite the persistent embarrassment they cause, I’ve never viewed adolescence as a mistake to be eradicated.
This perspective doesn’t hold for many characters in Whimper, a mystery series authored by comedian May Martin. The story unfolds in a fictional small-town academy in Vermont, aiming to tame unruly teens and tame the chaos of adolescence. Evelyn Wade (Toni Collett), a commanding figure, oversees the “progressive and intentional community” nestled among saccharine pines, embodying New Age ideals. Yet beneath the surface, there’s a darker undertone to this seemingly blissful place.
Through the eyes of Abby (Sydney Topriff), a Canadian stoner tomboy struggling to meet her father’s expectations, we explore Tall Pines Academy. After sneaking out to meet her best friend Leila (Arivia Allin Lind), Abby is portrayed as a troubled influence, leading to her enforced enrollment under Evelyn’s watchful eye. Upon her arrival, she is stripped of her belongings and encouraged to spy on fellow students for any offenses.
Meanwhile, newcomer police officer Alex Dempsey (played by Martin) and his pregnant wife Laura (Sara Gadon) navigate their new town, with Laura being a cherished alum of the academy, gifted their home by Evelyn. When Alex encounters a frantic runaway student in the woods, he begins to suspect something is amiss with the school.
“
The most frightening part is Therapis Peak, with cruelty disguised as a way to protect mental health “
Tall Pines Academy, surrounded by eerie forests, seems to harbor an unsettling interest in Alex and Laura’s unborn child. Mysterious elements emerge, including a peculiar door hidden underground and Laura’s fixation on an odd toad. A former student, now an employee under Evelyn, breathlessly speaks of the academy’s transformative effects.
However, the core terror of Whimper lies in its therapy culture. The series examines how weaponized mental health jargon disguises real cruelty, cloaked as concern for well-being.
Poor Abby is the subject of attempts to reshape her into someone else, with accusations of harm and efforts to suppress her identity separating her from supportive friends like Leila.
Everyone at the academy is a skilled manipulator, but none compare to Evelyn. She turns the adage “integrity is the best policy” into a twisted form of “treatment,” where students are subjected to peer scrutiny armed with harsh “truths,” ultimately breaking them down. “It’s a way to hold yourself accountable,” Evelyn insists at dinner.
While Whimper presents many intriguing concepts, it evokes more thought than engagement. Unfortunately, after an enticing pilot, it devolves into mediocrity, leaving only fleeting moments of brilliance in character revelations.
If you’re brave enough to relive adolescence, Whimper may be worth a watch. Otherwise, your time might be better spent elsewhere.
Toni Collette delivers a standout performance in this haunting tale of intergenerational trauma, where uncanny events unfold after the family’s matriarch passes away.
This book traces the 200-year movement to dismantle familial structures, urging alternative child-rearing methods beyond privatized units, offering insightful perspectives whether or not you fully embrace its arguments.
Bethan Ackerley is an assistant culture editor for New Scientist. She has a passion for science fiction, sitcoms, and unsettling stories. x Follow her at @inkerley
New Scientist Book Club just read Ursula K. Le Guin’s novel The Dispossessed
Gollancz; Benjamin Brink/Oregonian/AP/Alamy
Alex Foster’s reading experience, after shifting our perspectives in a circular motion, led the New Scientist Book Club into two contrasting worlds in Ursula K. Le Guin’s novel The Dispossessed. This authentic sci-fi classic from 1974 oscillates between two timelines. One follows physicist Chebek as he departs from the barren moon Anar to study at the university on Uras, a more prosperous planet, while he simultaneously grows within the anarchist society of Anar.
I first encountered The Dispossessed during my second year of university. At that time, I was captivated by the novel’s structure and the anarchist principles shaping Chebek’s hometown. After all, what better time to dive into radical fiction than as a budding student? On this subsequent reading, however, I found myself more attuned to the human aspects of the narrative. I now have a deeper understanding of Chebek’s character, albeit one I didn’t always sympathize with.
Many club members expressed excitement when we announced The Dispossessed as our next reading. “This is my favorite Le Guin book, though it’s truly hard to choose,” remarked Kelly Jensen. In Rachel Hand’s corners of reading on our Facebook Group, it had been a long-awaited selection for some. For others, it marked their first encounter with Le Guin’s work. New Scientist describes it as a “dive into the deep end.”
Despite its daunting reputation, some readers relished how The Dispossessed brims with concepts surrounding politics, physics, and language. “It’s absolutely spectacular that Le Guin tackles physics on the ‘time’ side of the space-time continuum,” said Laura Akers. Elizabeth Drummond Young appreciated the exploration of “sudden engagement,” examining linguistic and behavioral references, such as how individuals name themselves, paralleling notions introduced by Einstein in the novel.
However, a consensus emerged: few would wish to inhabit Anar, despite its egalitarian ideals. As Laura noted, “They can’t genuinely evaluate life as we do on Earth.” They hold a profound awareness of their ecosystems, yet remain focused on their operational realities.
Gosia Furmanik expressed ambivalence: “On one hand, it’s tremendous that there’s no exploitation, and they can, in principle, do as they please.
This notion came up during a conversation with Marcus Gipps, editor at Le Guin’s publisher, Gollancz. “Everything really comes down to perspective,” he told me. “I’m fascinated to learn about East Germany’s depiction prior to its fall in relation to this book, and I will continue to explore this!”
Perhaps the most contentious aspect of the novel is its portrayal of women. Some readers found the book’s gender ratios frustratingly outdated, feeling that our views of Anar and Uras are filtered through a biased human lens. “I perceived the book’s viewpoint as an internalized bias from the author, which is perhaps expected given its time of writing,” Gothia remarked. “The portrayal of relationships, such as Chebek’s interactions in the planting camp, presents a significant distortion of cis-heteromonogamy—despite the absence of marriage!”
Conversely, others interpreted the novel’s gender politics as more deliberate. “Le Guin aimed to provoke thought about the status of women within Anar’s framework,” Neil Leighton stated. “I don’t agree that we should assume she’s advocating a particular vision of utopia based on the characteristics of Anar’s society.”
With so many intricate ideas woven throughout, it’s no surprise not everyone found the book easy to digest. Phil Gurski had to stop reading around 160 pages in due to confusion, while Steve Swan remarked on needing patience during the initial chapters. Judith Lazelle echoed this sentiment.
I resonate with Phil, Steve, and Judith’s experiences. There are indeed peculiar moments where the book overwhelms with ideas. However, “Ursula Le Guin is an absolute literary master, and I’m a tremendous admirer. I understand why this work has garnered so many accolades.” Yet, I question whether the extensive philosophical deliberations detract from the narrative itself—though as usual, the maestro concludes in a deeply satisfying fashion.”
Fortunately, many members of the book club genuinely enjoyed The Dispossessed. “I adored this book,” exclaimed Neal. “I read it as a teenager and believe it to be one of the most influential texts in my thinking.” Rachel shared, “The ending was my favorite part,” while Terry James found the final 50 pages to be a “fantastic imaginative ride.”
We are now transitioning from a fantastical science fiction realm to the intricate world of neuroscience with our next book club selection: an award-winning nonfiction work. We are thrilled to explore the winners of this year’s Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Award, Our Brains, Ourselves by neuroscientist and clinician Mazood Hussain. Through seven captivating case studies, Hussain illustrates how various neurological conditions impact identity and belonging. This book is sure to engage fans of Oliver Sacks, as Grace Wade termed it “engaging and informative” earlier this February for those eager to delve into neuroscience.
You can find excerpts from this book as well. Additionally, Sandra Knapp, a plant taxonomist at the Museum of Natural History in London and head of the Jury Committee, offers unique insights into the award selection process. She shares what makes Our Brains, Ourselves stand out among other exceptional entries and highlights learnings from this “incredibly compassionate” work. Share your thoughts with us in our Facebook Group, and let us know if you’re excited for our next read.
Large Magellanic Cloud, Milky Way Satellite Galaxy, nearby star SDSS J0715-7334 discovered
Josh Lake/NASA/ESA
A star relatively close to us appears to be almost devoid of heavy elements produced by supernovae and may be a direct descendant of the universe’s first star.
Astronomers postulate that the initial stars consisted solely of hydrogen and helium, remnants from the Big Bang. It was only after these stars exhausted their fuel and exploded as supernovae that heavier elements could disperse beyond helium. The gas enriched with these new elements formed the subsequent generation of stars, with this cycle continuing, ultimately producing the elements we see in today’s stars and planets.
Most stars observed in our galaxy belong to multiple generations and are excluded from this early star population. However, “star archaeologists” have discovered nearly untouched stars believed to be from the “second generation,” born from the remnants of the early stellar explosions.
Recently, Alexander Z from the University of Chicago and his team identified the star with the lowest total amount of “metals,” referring to all elements besides hydrogen or helium, in the known universe. Named SDSS J0715-7334, this star resides in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way, and has a metal content approximately 0.8 times that of our Sun, making it about 20,000 times less metallic.
After initially detecting the star in data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, due to its notably low metallicity, JI and his colleagues conducted observations with the Magellan telescope at the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile. They confirmed that while the star has minimal iron, comparable to other nearly untouched stars, it also exhibits very low carbon levels, which are not typical for Milky Way stars.
“It’s quite an exciting discovery regarding iron levels. This is even more extreme than some of the other examples we have previously found,” said Anke Ardern-Arentsen from Cambridge University. “However, most interestingly, this star has significantly less carbon compared to natural stars we know about.” This observation might imply that it formed in a distinctly different manner than stars found in the Milky Way, according to Anna Frebel from MIT.
To form a star like SDSS J0715-7334, a relatively small and cool gas mass is required. Typically, this process necessitates heavier elements with high-energy electrons, such as carbon, which aid in cooling the gas effectively. The scarcity of carbon in this star complicates this process.
One potential alternative explanation is the presence of a cloud of cosmic dust made up of heavier elements. This dust may contribute to cooling, a mechanism not observed early in the universe’s history, at least within our own galaxies.
“There’s an issue here. Do varying environments across different regions of the universe cool gas at different rates during the early formation epochs?” Frebel questions. “We can raise the question of why different cooling rates occur, but we lack a satisfactory answer.”
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The asymmetry in the average temperature of the cosmic microwave background is inconsistent with the standard model of cosmology
ESA/Planck Collaboration
Cosmic anomalies have puzzled scientists for years, and recent examinations of data from various radio telescopes further complicate the understanding of their origins.
This peculiar fluctuation appears in the afterglow of the Big Bang, representing radiation that has journeyed toward us since the dawn of time, referred to as the cosmic microwave background (CMB). Physicists generally expect this radiation to be uniform in all directions; therefore, significant deviations are perplexing. Current measurements indicate a gradient in CMB temperatures, resulting in colder and hotter areas known as a dipole, as explained by Lucas Behme. His team at Bielefeld University in Germany utilized data from radio telescopes to delve deeply into these anomalies.
Böhme notes that while the presence of the CMB dipole isn’t surprising, its magnitude defies the expectations of our prevailing cosmological models. Radiation emitted from moving sources—and perceived by observers who are also in motion—appears warmer or colder due to the Doppler effect and other relativistic effects. Yet, the dipole observed is approximately ten times more intense than anticipated.
To analyze this discrepancy, Böhme and his colleagues examined data from six radio telescopes and meticulously narrowed their focus to the three most precise measurements. Böhme describes their method as dividing the sky into pixels to determine the number of radiation sources within each. Nevertheless, despite their exhaustive adjustments, the dipole mystery endured.
Dragan Huterer from the University of Michigan finds the team’s thorough analysis noteworthy. He emphasizes that this is crucial for establishing the dipole as an undeniable feature of the CMB. “This is a significant insight, indicating that we fundamentally misunderstand our spatial context within the universe, or that our most accurate theories fail to align with the evidence,” he states. However, Huterer also points out the challenges inherent in accurately measuring radio astronomical data, which may result in systematic errors.
Part of the difficulty lies in the faintness of the radio signals collected, Böhme explains. “We aim to measure extremely subtle phenomena. Fine-tuning this measurement is challenging,” he notes. Yet, this is not the only evidence supporting the existence of the dipole. Infrared radiation from quasars tends to reinforce the findings from radio wave measurements, and forthcoming telescopes may enhance precision in observations, potentially resolving some of the dipole’s enigmas.
However, researchers Fabian Kratz and Josef Brüderl at Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich argue that this belief may not hold true.
Kratz feels compelled to reevaluate the U-curve claim. The researchers analyzed self-reported happiness data from 70,922 adults who took part in the Socio-Economic Panel Survey in Germany from 1984 to 2017, modeling how happiness evolved over individuals’ lifetimes.
Contrary to the U-shaped model, they discovered that happiness typically declines during adulthood, only beginning to rise again in the late 50s.
Kratz believes that prior research may have drawn erroneous conclusions by oversimplifying the happiness trajectory and neglecting deaths due to suicide or illness. “It can seem that happiness increases after a certain age simply because those who are unhappy have already passed away,” Kratz explains.
“In the social sciences, there’s been considerable debate over conflicting findings—results often evaporate with new data collection,” says Julia Roller at the University of Leipzig. “Yet, another overlooked issue is that researchers may analyze data in ways that are systematically flawed. This can yield replicable findings, but still mislead.”
Others posit that these findings raise important questions. “This study provides an excellent opportunity to reconsider our understanding in this field,” remarks Philip Cohen at the University of Maryland, highlighting the need to explore why our happiness shifts throughout life and how we can ameliorate low points. Both Kratz and Brüderl express a desire to avoid speculation on the reasons behind these observed changes.
Oswald notes that the study presents “interesting results” worthy of consideration, but he emphasizes that factors such as marriage and income are beyond his control.
Furthermore, he points out that the study focuses on a single country, leaving it unclear whether these results are applicable elsewhere. Kratz suggests this may provide a useful foundation for future research. Notably, the findings could inform policy. “Previous scholars argued for the importance of proactive policies to help individuals navigate mid-life crises,” Kratz mentions. “While we do not dismiss this urgency, our results indicate that addressing declining well-being in older adults should be a priority.”
Do you need someone to talk to? In the UK, contact Samaritans at 116123 (Samaritans.org); in the US, reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). For services in other countries, visit bit.ly/suicidehelplines.
As dawn broke, a peaceful calm enveloped the city. The shadows along the roads gradually receded, leading us into a radiant morning. It was June, and the few early risers setting up market stalls relished the serene, gentle light, even with the enemy only 50 miles away. Many who had fled the metropolitan area clung to the hope that the defense line would hold after nearly four years. Hope remained alive.
On Houseman Street, a handful of cars headed east, but otherwise, the street was quiet as most residents lingered in wakefulness. However, the inhabitants of the second-floor apartment at No. 102 had been awake for quite some time—indeed, all night. The window shutters remained tightly drawn, as they had been for months. A green bedside lamp glowed in the otherwise darkened room, amidst furniture shrouded in shadows and filled with stramonium steam for asthma, creating a stifling atmosphere. The sounds from the street, coupled with the soundproof cork-lined walls, contributed to a sense of suffocating confinement that visitors undoubtedly felt.
Sitting on a bed in a beautifully adorned Japanese courtyard, propped up by large cushions, he usually lost himself in his manuscript. But today felt different. Overwhelming fear consumed him. One side of his face seemed to sag. When addressing Celeste, his housekeeper, he worried his words lacked clarity, turning his speech into an almost incomprehensible ramble. Convinced he was on the brink of a major stroke—the same fate that plagued both his parents—he found no alternative explanation. It was a hereditary concern. And had his beloved mother, Jeanne, escaped complete frailty? Her stroke had robbed her of language, rendering her unable to communicate with her cherished sons.
In the summer of 1918, as the Germans initiated their final offensives of World War I towards Paris, the renowned novelist Marcel Proust sat on a blue satin chair, engulfed in fear of potential brain damage. Now in his late 40s, he was all too familiar with aphasia; his mother had suffered from it, and his father, Dr. Adrian Proust, had authored an entire book on the subject prior to his own stroke.
Young Marcel had also befriended many of the city’s most distinguished neurologists. At that time, Paris stood as a prominent hub for neurology, with pioneering experts making significant advancements in understanding language disorders following strokes. Without such insights, where would Proust find himself?
On that June morning in 1918, he anticipated a meeting with Joseph Babinsky, a well-known neurologist. Babinsky, unaware of the reasons behind Proust’s visit, simply inquired, “Do you have any symptoms?”
Proust’s intention was to persuade Babinsky to perform a trepanation—drilling holes in his skull—driven by his profound belief that such a drastic step was necessary to halt the looming stroke. However, Babinsky, an expert in his field, reassured Proust that there was no evidence suggesting he was experiencing a stroke and declined to proceed with the operation. It’s difficult to imagine how the trajectory of Proust’s monumental novel would have shifted had he suffered a stroke. While Marcel Proust never experienced a stroke, the shadow of that fear haunted him throughout his life, lingering long after, even when he was near death from pneumonia, it was Babinsky he called upon.
Proust’s anxieties surrounding brain-related illnesses resonate with many. While diseases can afflict anyone in various ways, our deepest fears often lie in disorders that impact our minds. Why is that? Because neurological conditions can transform individuals dramatically. Some may struggle with communication, as Proust feared, while others could experience memory loss, distorted perceptions, or hallucinations. Some might exhibit socially inappropriate behavior, a lack of empathy, or rudeness. Others could become impulsive or withdrawn, developing new addictions or suffering from pathological indifference.
Such behavioral shifts can be distressing and terrifying for both individuals and their loved ones. Yet, they reveal profound insights into our very nature. By examining the consequences of certain brain functions being impaired, we glean understanding about our own normality, how cognitive functions shape our identities—personal and social, formed through our connections with others.
For someone like Marcel Proust, losing the ability to communicate would be devastating. Not only would he lose his gift for writing, but he would also risk dismantling his carefully crafted social presence. The social identity he had labored to cultivate would effectively disintegrate. Proust had invested years nurturing relationships with key figures in French society and possessed remarkable perceptions regarding his connections with influential individuals. As a gay man from a Jewish background, He adeptly navigated the complexities of prejudice and societal expectations in Paris.
Through keen observation and emulation, he became an integral part of the circles he thought he belonged to. Some observers suggested that Proust was a master manipulator, indicating that even while isolated in his dimly lit bedroom, he was unwilling to relinquish control over those around him. However, without language, the intricate web he had worked to weave would no longer be accessible; he would no longer “belong.”
This excerpt is from Massoud Hussain’s workOur Brains, Ourselves(Canong’s publication), recipient of The Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize and the latest selection from the New Scientist Book Club. Join us to read together.
The human brain is one of the most intricate entities ever to exist.
Andriy Onofriyenko/Getty Images
Science literature, particularly those authored by scientists, is often perceived as monotonous and challenging. They are sometimes regarded as mere textbooks meant for structured learning. However, the book featuring the finalists for the Royal Society’s Trivite Science Award proves this perception wrong and showcases the judges’ selection for this year: Our Brains, Ourselves by neurologist Masd Hussain.
I was fortunate to serve as a panel chair among six dedicated readers and book enthusiasts, including New Scientist‘s Jacob Aron, who faced the daunting challenge of curating a list of nominees. Our discussions, led by passionate advocates for science, were diverse and engaging, reflecting the love we all share for both literature and science.
We frequently engaged in respectful debates, as I was usually in the company of individuals willing to consider opposing viewpoints. Our varied backgrounds and experiences enriched our understanding of the privileges associated with reading and the act of reading itself.
This year’s submissions featured numerous outstanding scientific works, yet Our Brains, Ourselves notably blended exquisite storytelling with rigorous, cutting-edge science, particularly evidenced in its humanistic approach. Hussain is a neuroscientist and a clinician; seven personal narratives from his patients are highlighted throughout the book.
The experiences shared are diverse. One individual feels an overwhelming apathy post-stroke, while another believes she has a connection with her husband. Each story illustrates profound transformations. This book is a poignant exploration of how neurological disorders can radically alter one’s identity and breed societal alienation.
A recurring theme in the book is the concept of “self” and how our brains shape our identities. It is conveyed empathetically and personally. The scientific elements are firmly grounded in Hussain’s own research, presented in an easily digestible manner, while acknowledging the unknowns. I appreciate this transparency; real science encourages the pursuit of further questions.
While case studies in clinical practices might seem commonplace, the unique personal touch here makes a significant difference. Have you ever felt a disconnect from personal attributes? The narratives of patients with brain disorders provoke thought regarding identity, selfhood, and our social roles.
This notion resonated strongly with our panel. What constitutes belonging? Some individuals encountered in the book are members of immigrant communities, facing prejudice and violence to carve out their place in society. It would seem that as our world becomes increasingly interconnected, our fear of differences should diminish—but this isn’t always the case.
Our Brains, Ourselves encourages readers to reflect on how neurological disorders can profoundly disrupt one’s sense of belonging while illustrating how cognitive function influences one’s identity. Ultimately, our brains substantially define who we are. This compassionate narrative not only educates readers about science but also showcases extraordinary human kindness.
Sandra Knapp is a plant taxonomist at the Museum of Natural History in London and chaired this year’s Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Award judging committee. The winner of the award is Our Brains, Ourselves, the latest addition to the New Scientist Book Club.
Petalol looked forward to Aida’s call each morning at 10 AM.
While daily check-in calls from the AI Voice bot weren’t part of the expected service package when she enrolled in St. Vincent’s home care, the 79-year-old agreed to participate in the trial four months ago to assist with the initiative. However, realistically, her expectations were modest.
Yet, when the call comes in, she remarks: “I was taken aback by how responsive she is. It’s impressive for a robot.”
“She always asks, ‘How are you today?’ allowing you to express if you’re feeling unwell.”
“She then follows up with, ‘Did you get a chance to go outside today?’
Aida also inquires about what tasks she has planned for the day, stating, “I’ll manage it well.”
“If I say I’m going shopping, will she clarify if it’s for groceries or something else? I found that fascinating.”
Bots that alleviate administrative pressure
Currently, the trial, which is nearing the end of its initial phase, exemplifies how advancements in artificial intelligence are impacting healthcare.
The Digital Health Company collaborated with St. Vincent’s health to trial its generative AI technology aimed at enhancing social interaction, enabling home care clients to follow up with staff regarding any health concerns.
Dean Jones, the national director at St. Vincent’s, emphasizes that this service is not intended to replace face-to-face interactions.
“Clients still have weekly in-person meetings, but during these sessions… [AI] the system facilitates daily check-ins and highlights potential issues to the team or the client’s family,” Jones explains.
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Dr. Tina Campbell, Health Managing Director, states no negative incidents have been reported from the St. Vincent trial.
The company employs open AI “with clearly defined guardrails and prompts” to ensure conversations remain safe and can promptly address serious health concerns, according to Campbell. For instance, if a client experiences chest pain, the care team is alerted, and the call is terminated, allowing the individual to call emergency services.
Campbell believes that AI is pivotal in addressing significant workforce challenges within the healthcare sector.
“With this technology, we can lessen the burden on workforce management, allowing qualified health professionals to focus on their duties,” she states.
AI isn’t as novel as you think
Professor Enrico Coyera, founder of the Australian Alliance for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, notes that older AI systems have been integral to healthcare in “back-office services,” including medical imaging and pathology report interpretations.
Coyera, who directs the Center for Health Information at Macquarie University, explains:
“In departments like Imaging and Radiology, machines already perform these tasks.”
Over the past decade, a newer AI method called “deep learning” has been employed to analyze medical images and enhance diagnoses, Coyera adds.
These tools remain specialized and require expert interpretation, and ultimately, responsibility for medical decisions rests with practitioners, Coyera stresses.
These lesions can cause seizures that are resistant to medication, making surgery the only treatment option. However, successful surgery depends on the ability to identify the abnormal tissue.
In a study published this week in Epilepsia, a team led by neurologist Emma McDonald Rouse demonstrated that “AI epilepsy detectors” can identify lesions in up to 94% of MRI and PET scans, even detecting a subtype of lesions that are often missed by over 60%.
This AI was trained using scans from 54 patients and was tested on 17 children and 12 adults. Of the 17 children, 12 underwent surgery, and 11 are currently seizure-free.
This tool employs a neural network classifier, similar to breast cancer screening, to highlight abnormalities that experts still need to review, emphasizing a much faster path to diagnosis.
She underlines that researchers remain in the “early stages” of development, and further study is necessary to advance the technology for clinical use.
Professor Mark Cook, a neurologist not associated with the research, states that MRI scans yield vast amounts of high-resolution data that are challenging for humans to analyze. Thus, locating these lesions is akin to “finding needles in a haystack.”
“This exemplifies how AI can assist clinicians by providing quicker and more precise diagnoses, potentially enhancing surgical access and outcomes for children with otherwise severe epilepsy,” Cook affirms.
Prospects for disease detection
Dr. Stefan Buttigieg, vice-president of the Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence section at the European Association of Public Health, notes that deep neural networks are integral to monitoring and forecasting disease outbreaks.
At the Australian Public Health Conference in Wollongong last month, Buttigieg referenced the early detection of the Covid-19 outbreak by Blue Dot, a firm established by infectious disease specialists.
Generative AI represents a subset of deep learning, allowing technology to create new content based on its training data. Applications in healthcare include programs like Healthyly’s AI Voice Bot and AI Scribes for doctors.
Dr. Michael Wright, president of the Royal Australian GPS College, mentions that GPs are embracing AI Scribes, which transform consultations into notes for patient records.
Wright highlights that the primary benefit of scribes is to enhance the quality of interactions between physicians and patients.
Dr. Daniel McMullen, president of the Australian Medical Association, concurs, stating that scribes assist doctors in optimizing their time and that AI could help prevent redundant testing for patients. The promised digitization of health records remains a challenge.
Buttigieg argues that one of AI’s greatest potential is in delivering increasingly personalized healthcare.
“For years, healthcare has relied on generic tools and solutions. Now, we are moving towards a future with more sophisticated solutions, where AI fulfills the same roles,” Buttigieg concludes.
Researchers can utilize AI to analyze MRI data to aid in identifying brain lesions. Photo: Karly Earl/Guardian
Complex problem solving can arise sooner in child development than previously believed
PlusOnevector/Alamy
Research reveals that four-year-olds can devise efficient strategies for complex challenges, such as independently creating sorting methods akin to those used by computer scientists. The researchers assert that these abilities appear much earlier than once thought, warranting a reevaluation of developmental psychology.
Past experiments led by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget popular in the 1960s, required children to physically arrange sticks by length. His findings indicated that structured strategies didn’t emerge until around age seven, as children tended to experiment haphazardly through trial and error.
Contrarily, recent work by Huiwen Alex Yang and his team at the University of California, Berkeley, shows that a notable fraction of four-year-olds can create algorithmic solutions for the same task, with more than a quarter exhibiting these skills by age five.
“Perhaps we haven’t given our children enough credit,” Yang states. “We must delve deeper into their reasoning capabilities.”
In a study involving 123 children aged 4-9, researchers asked them to sort digital images of bunnies by height. Initially, they could view groups of bunnies and directly compare their heights, allowing all children to sort them aptly using straightforward methods.
However, once the heights were obscured, the children had to compare only two bunnies at a time while being informed whether their order was correct. This approach necessitated the development of new strategies, as they couldn’t see the entire group simultaneously.
The researchers examined the children’s application of these new strategies, looking for evidence of known solutions and demonstrated instances where children utilized established algorithms. It was found that overall, children frequently outperformed random chance. Remarkably, they independently identified at least two efficient sorting algorithms recognized in computer science: Selection Sort and Shaker Sort.
In 34% of trials, children employed various comparisons, signaling their use of known sorting algorithms for a portion of the time. Out of a total of 667 tests run, the children utilized selection and shaker sorting in 141 instances, with some employing combinations of both strategies. Notably, 67 out of 123 children demonstrated at least one recognizable algorithm, and 30 children used both at different stages in the experiment.
Nonetheless, the age of the children directly influenced how many used algorithms. Only 2.9% of four-year-olds applied identifiable methods, while this rose to 25.5% among five-year-olds and 30.7% for six-year-olds. By age nine, over 54% were using identifiable algorithms.
“This has long been a challenge to Piaget,” remarks Andrew Bremner from the University of Birmingham, UK. He acknowledges Piaget’s groundbreaking contributions to developmental psychology in setting stages for learning but emphasizes that Piaget often designed experiments without proper controls. “Critics have been eager to illustrate that children can achieve more than Piaget claimed.
Essentially, while Piaget initially had a correct understanding of child development, his assessments of the ages at which children achieve certain milestones were overly pessimistic. This latest study strengthens the evidence supporting earlier development stages. Interestingly, it revolves around sorting. Bremner indicates this as the last bastion of Piaget’s work, proving applicable to younger children than once believed.
“Children can successfully navigate this particular problem much sooner than we anticipated,” states Bremner. “They do not approach the world as mere blank slates, but rather implement strategic techniques in problem-solving.”
Sam Wass from the University of East London points out that Piaget contended that children needed a comprehensive grasp of complex systems before they could devise strategies to engage with them, a notion he is finding increasingly unnecessary.
“This research signifies a significant trend in psychology that contests the assumption that intricate thoughts and understanding are prerequisites for executing complex behaviors,” notes Wass. “The study illustrates that complex behaviors may emerge from a far simpler array of rules.”
A splendid fairy (left) attempts to evade the cuckoo
David Ongley
More than 20 bird species globally utilize similar “whining” alarm calls to alert others about the presence of cuckoos. These calls seem to resonate across species, shedding light on their evolutionary significance.
Cuckoos are among the numerous 100 species recognized as brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other birds and relying on them to raise their young as if they were their own.
Will Feeney and his team at biological stations in Spain and Doñana identified 21 species that last shared a common ancestor around 53 million years ago. These species exhibit structurally similar “whimper” calls when they detect a breeding parasite.
Examples include the splendid fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus) in Australia, the yellow-brown prinia (Prinia subflava) in Africa, Hume’s leaf warbler (Phylloscopus humei) in Asia, and the green warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides) in Europe.
“It seems these diverse bird species worldwide have converged on the same vocalization to alert against their respective brood parasites,” observes Feeney.
Researchers often observe that species producing this alarm call tend to inhabit areas rich in brood parasites, which exploit various host species. When a potential host detects the whining, they often resort to aggressive defense behaviors.
“Brood parasites present a unique threat. They pose significant risks to offspring while largely being non-threatening to adult birds,” says Feeney. “Our findings suggest that [the call] plays a crucial role in promptly alerting fellow birds and potentially securing their protection.”
“In the case of the splendid fairy-wren, they are cooperative breeders, which likely means that the mobbing call is intended to attract additional individuals for support,” explains Rose Thorogood from the University of Helsinki, Finland.
To deepen their investigation, Feeney and colleagues recorded calls from brood-parasite hosts across continents and played them to potential host birds in Australia and China. They discovered that hearing foreign alarm calls prompted just as quick a response as calls from their own species.
“This indicates that the function of this vocalization is geared towards fostering interspecies communication rather than merely internal signaling,” highlights Feeney.
Thorogood cautions: “The ancestral alarm calls shared by our forebears may not have solely targeted brood parasites. Instead, they likely feature specific acoustic properties that are effective in repelling these threats.”
The research team also conducted similar experiments with yellow warblers (Setophaga petechia) in North America, which serve as egg hosts for brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) yet do not produce the distinctive whining alarm call. When exposed to the splendid fairy-wren’s alarm, warblers responded promptly by returning to their nests, demonstrating distress through various calls in addition to mobbing.
Feeney suggests that numerous bird species respond to innate components in alarm calls, while local birds in areas where brood parasites are prevalent adapt their calls and responses to convey information about local dangers.
“These birds have adapted distress calls for new contexts related to offspring threats,” he explains. “This provides insights into why birds across the globe utilize similar sounds.”
Charles Darwin proposed in his 1871 work, The Descent of Man, that spoken language’s origins could be traced back to imitation and adaptation of instinctual sounds made by humans and other animals. These instances may not only involve cries of fear but can also reflect pain. “A bird adapting these instinctual calls for different purposes might represent a foundational step towards language,” concludes Feeney.
Rob Magrath of the Australian National University notes, “Calls often convey specific meanings, sometimes referring to external objects or incidents, rather than merely indicating internal states like fear or traits such as gender or species.”
“This referential quality suggests that such vocalizations bear resemblance to human language, frequently referencing the external world,” he adds. “Thus, animal communication and human language may exist on a continuum rather than being distinct attributes of humans.”
A report from the Campaign Group reveals that TikTok is guiding child accounts towards pornographic content within just a few clicks.
Global Witness activists created fake accounts using a birth date of 13 and activated the app’s “limited mode,” designed to reduce visibility to “sexually suggestive” material.
Researchers discovered that TikTok suggested sexual and explicit search phrases for seven test accounts established on new mobile devices with no prior search history.
The suggested terms under the “You May Want” feature included “very rude and revealing attire” and “very rude babe,” escalating to phrases like “hardcore porn clip.” Sexual search suggestions appeared instantly for three of the accounts.
After just “a few clicks,” researchers encountered pornographic material ranging from depictions of women to explicit sexual acts. Global Witness indicated that some content tried to evade moderation by appearing as innocuous photos or videos. For one account, access to explicit content required only two clicks: one on the search bar and another on a suggested search term.
Global Witness, an organization focused on climate issues and the implications of Big Tech on human rights, conducted two rounds of testing on July 25, one before and one after the Child Protection Regulation (OSA) was enacted in the UK.
Two videos featuring individuals who appeared under 16 were reported to the Internet Watch Foundation, tasked with monitoring online child sexual abuse material.
Global Witness accused TikTok of breaching the OSA, which mandates tech companies to shield children from harmful content, including pornography.
A spokesperson for the UK Communications Regulatory Authority, Ofcom, stated they would “support the study’s findings and evaluate the results.”
OFCOM’s compliance code stipulates that media promoting harmful content or high-risk tech companies must “design their algorithms to eliminate harmful material from child feeds.” TikTok’s content guidelines expressly prohibit pornographic material.
In response to Global Witness’s concerns, TikTok confirmed the removal of troubling content and modifications to its search recommendations.
“Upon recognizing these issues, we promptly initiated an investigation, eliminated content that breached our policies, and began enhancing our search proposal features,” stated a spokesperson.
Elon Musk, a self-proclaimed “free speech absolutist,” has recently attracted attention for urging people to cancel their Netflix subscriptions, citing concerns over LGBTQ+ characters.
Musk, the richest man in the world with an estimated net worth of around $500 million, has encouraged his 227 million followers on X, the platform he oversees, to cancel their Netflix subscriptions. In just the past three days, he has posted or shared calls to cancel Netflix at least 26 times.
The backlash against Netflix began on Tuesday when Musk tweeted, “This isn’t okay.”
He referred to the Netflix show Dead End Paranormal Park as “pro-transgender for kids,” noting that it is rated TV-Y7, which signifies suitability for children aged 7 and over. The show aired 20 episodes in 2022 before being canceled by Netflix the following year, and it is currently not being promoted by the company.
Since then, Musk has shared several tweets from users who claim to have canceled their subscriptions in protest of what they believe to be a children’s brainwashing agenda involving LGBTQ+ content.
“Cancel Netflix for your child’s health,” Musk tweeted on Wednesday, quoting a meme that depicted Netflix’s “Transgender Woke Agenda” as a Trojan horse sneaking into a castle labeled “Your Child.”
On Thursday, he shared another user’s tweet stating, “Transgender propaganda isn’t just quietly hiding in the Netflix background. They’re actively pushing it,” linking to an article titled “Celebrating Trans Visibility in These 16 Movies and Shows” on Netflix’s Tudum Media site.
Musk also highlighted themes of pro-trans content in shows like Babysitters Club and Cocomelon, while sharing debunked claims linking Netflix to an “anti-white” hiring policy and calling out political donations from Netflix employees exclusively to Democrats for the 2024 election.
Additionally, Musk commented “Netflix Cancel” on a TikTok post referencing Netflix’s 2023 report on Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives.
Musk’s daughter, Vivian Wilson, who is transgender, has publicly criticized his anti-trans rhetoric. In a 2022 petition to legally change her name and gender, Wilson expressed:
Musk has since stated that he “essentially lost my son,” claiming he was “deceived” regarding gender-affirming care for Wilson, whom he referred to as “dead and killed by a woke mind virus.” He elaborated on these sentiments further.
Netflix has often championed free speech when it faced backlash over its content, yet has remained silent in response to Musk’s provocations. This isn’t the first time the company faced criticism from the right; in 2020, the release of the film Cuties, which dealt with a minor actress performing a sexual dance routine, sparked outrage leading to a significant increase in subscription cancellations in the U.S.
In 2021, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos defended comedian Dave Chappelle based on free speech principles, backing the company’s decision to commission specials from right-leaning comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, despite Hinchcliffe’s controversial remarks.
Musk’s calls for mass cancellations come amid Hollywood’s own free speech controversy triggered by the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show, which faced backlash during the Trump administration. Following similar reactions from celebrities and Disney+ subscribers, the company reinstated Kimmel.
The parents of a teenager, who tragically lost her life in a crash involving a Cybertruck last fall, are suing Tesla. Court documents indicate the incident occurred in a serene town in the California Bay Area, where the vehicle, carrying four passengers, crashed into a tree and ignited.
Only one of the passengers survived the crash.
The lawsuit, lodged on Thursday in Alameda County Superior Court, is brought forth by the family of a 19-year-old college student who was home visiting for Thanksgiving in Piedmont, California, at the time of the accident. The crash happened late on the night of November 27, 2024, as the Cybertruck was speeding, collided with a tree, and burst into flames. The California Highway Patrol Report states that the truck’s electric doors became inoperable during the fire, leaving the four passengers trapped inside.
The lawsuit claims that the design of the Cybertruck’s door handles contributed to the teen’s death. When the power was cut off, the only way to exit through the rear door was to pull a cable located beneath the pocket liner in the door compartment. According to a Bloomberg report, the doors remained locked from outside, making it difficult for rescuers to assist in a timely manner.
Tesla has not responded to requests for comments on the matter.
Roger Dreyer, an attorney representing the family, stated, “The design of this vehicle ultimately failed Christa. There was no accessible manual override or emergency release for her to escape.”
Tesla’s door handles are a signature feature and a source of pride for CEO Elon Musk. As the first production vehicles with such electric handles, they are designed to enhance the car’s sleek appearance. However, this design has drawn criticism from car safety experts and is currently under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The lawsuit alleges that Tesla’s reliance on electric door mechanisms has created a significant risk of entrapment. “There have been documented instances where occupants survived the initial crash impact but were unable to escape when the power failed and a fire ensued,” the suit asserts.
Despite receiving a high safety rating in crash tests, the Cybertruck has faced eight recalls since its launch two years ago. Tesla is also embroiled in other lawsuits regarding vehicle safety, including one in Florida, where a judge ordered the company to pay $243 million for issues related to its driver assistance system, Autopilot.
The Tsukahara family’s case is particularly notable as the driver, Soren Dixon, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamines during the accident, according to the Alameda County Coroner. Dixon also died in the crash.
On the night of the accident, a friend who was pursuing the Cybertruck in another vehicle witnessed the incident. He rushed to assist and broke the windows of the Cybertruck, managing to rescue one passenger before the flames made it impossible to save Christa.
The lawsuit contends that while Christa did not suffer physical injuries from the impact of the crash, she succumbed to smoke inhalation and burns due to her inability to escape the vehicle.
“Her death was preventable,” stated her parents, Carl and Noel Tsukahara, in a statement. “She was alive after the crash, calling for help, yet she could not get out.”
Recent explosive growth has led to the “erroneous” planet achieving the title of the fastest-growing planet ever observed.
Several months ago, this planet started to rumble within the gaseous envelope surrounding it, and it is now consuming 6 billion tonnes (2.2 trillion pounds) per second. New research reveals it as the most voracious world recorded to date.
Known as Cha 1107-7626, this celestial body is 5-10 times larger than Jupiter and located 620 light-years away. As a “rogue” planet, it does not orbit a star but instead moves freely in its own path.
While the origins of these rogue planets remain a mystery, this finding suggests they may form more like stars than traditional planets.
“People often envision planets as tranquil, stable environments, but this discovery indicates that objects on planets drifting freely in space can lead to an exhilarating landscape,” said Dr. Victor Almendros-Abad, an astronomer at the National Institute of Astrophysics in Italy and the lead researcher on this study.
CHA 1107-7626 is enveloped by a disc of gas and dust, which is spiraling onto its surface and facilitating its growth through a process called accretion.
Last year, astronomers observed the planet’s increasing appetite for gas, leading to a situation where, by August 2025, it had ingested eight times more gas than it had just months prior.
“This represents the most intense accretion event ever documented for planetary mass objects,” stated Almendros-Abad.
Astronomers have uncovered hundreds of rogue planets, yet their origins remain elusive – Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
The exact characteristics of these drifting worlds have puzzled astronomers for years. There are currently two primary theories: they may have originally formed around stars but were ejected, or they emerged from a collapsing gas and dust cloud like stars.
To gather insights, astronomers captured light from the planet both before and during its recent growth spurt. They detected indications of a robust magnetic field influencing the gas accretion onto the planet. Additionally, they noticed signs of water vapor present during the growth phase but absent before it. Both phenomena are typically associated with growing stars and have not been observed on young planets.
“The concept that planetary objects can function like stars is awe-inspiring, prompting speculation about what an early stage of such worlds might entail,” remarked Dr. Amelia Bayo, an astronomer at the Southern Observatory in Europe, who contributed to this study.
Shedding pounds might be as straightforward as swapping out some sausages, beef, and bacon in your meals for legumes. Recent research highlights this find.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki directed 51 Finnish men, aged 20-65, to cut back on their red and processed meat intake by just 200g (7oz) a week.
Simultaneously, these men incorporated more legumes, particularly peas and fava beans, into their diets, constituting 20% of their protein sources, while still consuming chicken, fish, eggs, and other proteins.
Apart from this substitution, participants were not advised to eat less or restrict calories. Remarkably, just six weeks later, they experienced an average weight loss of 1 kilo (2.2 pounds).
“This was astonishing because we didn’t set out to encourage weight loss,” said Professor Anne Maria Pajari, a molecular dietitian and senior author of the study, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “We encouraged volunteers to maintain their daily eating habits while monitoring their red and processed meat and legume consumption.”
Pajari noted that while legumes are associated with healthy weight, the degree of change observed in just six weeks was unexpected. This was just the beginning.
By the study’s conclusion, participants consuming legumes had lower total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, indicating that this dietary switch could lower heart disease risk.
Moreover, the men’s iron levels improved, an outcome surprising since lean meat is typically regarded as a primary source of dietary iron.
According to Pajari, the food exchange was well-received by participants; only one volunteer chose to leave the study.
“I’m very satisfied with the results,” Pajari remarked. “This is something everyone can do. By cutting back on red and processed meat and incorporating more plant-based foods, individuals can make a meaningful impact on their health.”
“Even small adjustments can lead to significant benefits for both personal health and the environment,” she added.
The focus on men specifically was intentional, as they generally consume more meat compared to women.
Pajari observed that in Finland, the average man consumes double the amount of meat than the average woman, making men a “more vulnerable group” in terms of red and processed meat intake.
Lean meats include beef, pork, and lamb, while processed meats consist of cold cuts, sausages, and bacon – Credit: via Guido Mieth
The study also involved control groups, with another 51 men consuming 760g (27oz) of red and processed meats weekly—making up a quarter of their total protein intake, without any legumes.
This group showed no notable improvement in their blood cholesterol or iron levels and lost only 300g (0.6 pounds) on average. Pajari suggested this was merely a byproduct of participating in dietary trials.
“Participation in a diet trial often raises awareness about one’s eating habits,” she explained. “It’s quite sensitive, leading individuals to make healthier choices even when not instructed to.”
Overall, Pajari hopes that men will consider substituting some red and processed meats in their diets with peas, beans, and lentils for the sake of their health and the planet.
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have identified phosphine (PH)3 in the atmosphere of the brown dwarf Wolf 1130c, part of the triple system 1130ABC.
Schematic diagram of the Wolf 1130ABC triple system, featuring red dwarf star Wolf 1130a (left), compact white dwarf companion 1130b (center), and distant brown dwarf Wolf 1130c (right); each component scaled according to its relative size. Image credit: Adam Burgasser.
Wolf 1130ABC is located approximately 54 light years away in the constellation Cygnus.
The system is also known for LHS 482, Gliese 781, and Ross 1069b. It consists of three components: the Cool Red Star Wolf 1130a, the massive white dwarf Wolf 1130b, and the brown dwarf Wolf 1130c.
Initially discovered in 2013, Wolf 1130c orbits the closely bound systems of Wolf 1130a and Wolf 1130b on a wide trajectory.
“The astronomical initiative known as the Ancient Arcana concentrates on ancient, metal-rich brown dwarfs to enhance our understanding of atmospheric chemistry,” stated Adam Burgasser, a professor at the University of California, San Diego.
“Identifying phosphine was one of our primary objectives.”
Phosphine naturally emerges in the hydrogen-dominated atmospheres of gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn.
This has led scientists to theorize that phosphine should exist in the atmospheres of exoplanetary gas giants as well.
Nevertheless, previous Webb observations often failed to detect phosphines, pointing to an incomplete understanding of phosphorus chemistry.
“Before Webb, the expectation was that phosphine would be plentiful in planetary and brown dwarf atmospheres, according to theoretical models based on the turbulent mixing in these environments.”
Wolf 1130c is of particular interest to brown dwarf astronomers due to its lower concentration of “metals” (elements beyond hydrogen and helium) compared to the Sun.
In contrast to other brown dwarfs, the team successfully detected phosphines in the infrared spectral data collected by Webb from Wolf 1130c.
To accurately interpret their findings, researchers needed to ascertain the abundance of this gas within the atmosphere of Wolf 1130c.
“We employed a modeling approach called atmospheric recovery to quantify the molecular constituents of Wolf 1130c,” explained Dr. Irene Gonzalez from San Francisco State University.
“This technique leverages Webb’s data to validate the expected presence of various molecular gas species in the atmosphere.”
“It’s akin to reverse-engineering a delicious cookie when a chef remains committed to a recipe.”
“Typically, phosphorus may bond with other molecules, such as phosphorus trioxide,” remarked Dr. Baylor.
“In the metal-poor atmosphere of Wolf 1130c, insufficient oxygen prevents phosphorus from forming this way, allowing it to arise from phosphine-rich hydrogen.”
Alternatively, the phosphine could have been synthesized locally within the Wolf 1130ABC system, particularly from the white dwarf Wolf 1130b.
“The white dwarf represents the remnant shell of a star that has completed hydrogen fusion,” Professor Burgasser explained.
“These stars are incredibly dense and can accumulate material on their surfaces, potentially spurring runaway nuclear reactions.”
While astronomers have not observed such phenomena in the Wolf 1130ABC system in recent history, nova events usually cycle every thousands to tens of thousands of years.
This system has been recognized for just a century, and earlier invisible explosions may have contributed to a legacy of phosphorus contamination.
Gaining insights into why this particular brown dwarf exhibits a distinct signature of phosphine could shed new light on phosphorus synthesis in the Milky Way and atmospheric chemistry on exoplanets.
“If we aim to use this molecule in the quest for life in terrestrial worlds outside our solar system, understanding the atmospheric phosphine chemistry of brown dwarfs becomes crucial,” Professor Burgasser commented.
This study will be published in the journal Science.
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Adam J. Burgasser et al. Observation of unexpected phosphines in the atmosphere of the cold brown dwarf. Science. Released online on October 2, 2025. doi:10.1126/science.adu0401
Cha J11070768-7626326 (shortened to Cha 1107-7626), a young and isolated exfoliating planet five to ten times the mass of Jupiter, has undergone a remarkable “growth spurt,” accumulating approximately 600 million tons of gas and dust within just a few months in the new sulse.
Artists’ impressions of Xplanet CHA 1107-7626 floating freely. Image credits: ESO/L. Kalsada/M. Kornmesser.
Located approximately 620 light years from the constellation Chamaeleon, Cha 1107-7626 is a free-floating exoplanet still in formation, drawing material from a gas and dust surrounding disc.
This material consistently falls onto planets, a process known as acquisition.
By August 2025, CHA 1107-7626 had increased its accretion rate to about eight times faster than just a few months prior, reaching an astonishing 6 billion tons per second.
“While it is often thought that planets are quiet and stable, this discovery shows that planetary mass objects drifting in space can be incredibly dynamic,” says Dr. Víctor Almendros-Abad.
“We have observed this newly forming illicit planet devouring material at a fierce pace,” remarked Ray Jayawardana, a professor at Johns Hopkins University.
“Our ongoing monitoring over recent months, utilizing two of the most powerful telescopes on Earth and in space, has provided us with rare insight into the infant stages of isolated objects not much larger than Jupiter.”
“Their early existence appears to be significantly more turbulent than previously conceived.”
“This represents the most intense accretion episode ever documented for planetary mass objects,” added Dr. Almendros-Abad.
The discovery was made using the X-Shooter spectrograph on the Very Large Telescope (VLT) operated by ESO in the Atacama Desert, Chile.
Astronomers also employed data from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, as well as archived data from the SINFONI Spectrograph of the VLT.
“The origins of illicit planets remain an open question: are they the lowest mass objects that form like stars, or are they giant planets ejected from their birth systems?” queried Dr. Alex Scholz, an astronomer at St. Andrews University.
Results suggest that at least some illicit planets may follow formation pathways similar to stars, as analogous bursts have been previously observed in younger stellar bodies.
“This finding blurs the line between stars and planets, offering a glimpse into the earliest formation periods of these objects,” states Dr. Belinda Damien, an astronomer at St. Andrews University.
By comparing the light emitted before and after the burst, astronomers gathered insights into the nature of the accretion process.
Interestingly, magnetic activity seems to contribute to driving this intense process.
This indicates that even low-mass objects can possess strong magnetic fields capable of fueling such accretion events.
The team also discovered that the chemistry of the surrounding discs changes during accretion episodes, with water vapor detected in the steam.
This phenomenon has been noted in stars but not previously observed in any type of planet.
“We are beginning to understand how the early life of a free-floating planetary mass object resembles that of a sun-like star,” stated Professor Jayawardana.
“Our recent discoveries emphasize this similarity, suggesting that some giant planet-like objects may form in a manner akin to stars and experience growth episodes similar to newborn stars as they accumulate gas and dust with their own discs.”
The team’s paper was published today in the Astrophysics Journal Letter.
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Victor Almendros-Abad et al. 2025. Discovery of accretion bursts on free-floating planetary mass objects. apjl 992, L2; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae09a8
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