Google Pixel 10 Pro Review: A Standout Small Phone in the Pixel Lineup

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Pixel 10 Pro stands out as Google’s premier smartphone, compact yet powerful, enhancing the capabilities of the already impressive Pixel 10 and raising the bar in the camera category.

This model competes closely with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro, delivering the finest Google hardware without the bulk of a large display. It’s also the most affordable among the trio of Pixel 10 phones, starting at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699), with the larger XL and tablet variants hybridizing 10 folds.

The 10 Pro bears a familiar resemblance to its predecessor, featuring a 6.3-inch OLED display that matches the Pixel 10 in size but is notably brighter, smoother, and sharper. As one of the top displays in the mobile realm, its refined aluminum edges and matte glass back exude a premium feel, though the color options are somewhat conservative compared to its less expensive counterparts.

With Qi2 support, magnetic chargers and accessories, such as the sleek Anker 5K Maggo, can effortlessly attach to the device’s back. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The 10 Pro is among the first devices to incorporate Qi2 wireless charging, allowing compatibility with a variety of magnetic accessories, including those designed for Apple’s MagSafe.

Under the hood lies Google’s latest Tensor G5 chip, offering approximately 35% improved speed over last year’s iteration, though it does not quite match the performance of Qualcomm’s top Android chips found in competing devices. The 10 Pro delivers a smooth user experience and performs well for gaming, although those seeking top-tier graphics may want to explore other options.

Boasting solid battery life, the Pixel enables a mix of 5G and WiFi usage lasting up to two days, with around 7 hours of active screen time. Most users will find they need to charge it every other day, but I managed to get through a heavy usage day in London, ending with approximately 25% battery remaining by midnight.

The Pixel 10 Pro fully charges in about 90 minutes with a compatible power adapter of 30W or more (not included), achieving 52% charge in just over 30 minutes. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Specifications

Screen: 6.3in 120Hz QHD+ OLED (495ppi)
Processor: Google Tensor G5
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 128, 256, 512GB, or 1TB
Operating System: Android 16
Camera: 50MP + 48MP UW + 48MP 5X TELE; 42MP Selfie
Connectivity: 5G, nano + eSIM (US: eSIM only), WiFi 7, UWB, NFC, Bluetooth 6, GNSS
Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes)
Size: 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.6mm
Weight: 207g

Android 16 with AI Integration

Google’s version of Android is vibrant, user-friendly, and customizable within reasonable limits. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Running on Android 16, your phone will receive security and software updates until August 2032, keeping your device current over its lifespan. The software mirrors that of the regular Pixel 10, featuring a bold and colorful aesthetic.

Google has infused AI into various aspects of the phone’s operation, with many features powered by the recent Gemini Nano models. This ensures privacy since processing can occur directly on-device without needing to transmit data.

With Gemini Chat Bot, you can engage with apps, view visuals on-screen, capture content through the camera, or have live interactions through audio.

Magic Cue enhances numerous Google and third-party apps by offering quick access to contextual information derived from data stored on your phone. Composite: Samuel Gibbs/Guardian

A standout feature is Magic Cue, which operates in the background by merging data from your Google account with your mobile data to provide assistance or quick recommendations in various Google applications. For instance, when you call a business, Magic Cue displays your card directly in the phone app, and order confirmations are readily accessible with a single tap when needed.

Magic Cue operates locally using around 10 days of data, helping to streamline operations without requiring extensive logs of your activities. It’s exclusive to Google and select third-party apps like eBay, limiting its functionality for users not utilizing compatible applications, such as WhatsApp.

The 10 Pro also includes a one-year subscription to Google AI Pro, which typically costs £19 per month, granting access to more advanced Gemini Pro models for image and video generation, along with 2TB of cloud storage across Google Drive, Photos, and Gmail.

Camera

The Camera app is user-friendly and versatile, offering various modes to enhance your photography experience, including manual controls. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The 10 Pro features an exceptional camera setup with a 42MP front-facing camera, a 50MP primary camera, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens, delivering up to 10x optical zoom quality. Notably, it debuts direct AI image processing in its camera, which raises intriguing questions about the nature of photography itself.

The primary camera is one of the industry’s finest, capturing a remarkable array of detailed images across varying lighting conditions. The ultrawide camera excels in landscapes and group shots, producing excellent macro photography results for engaging close-ups. The 5x telephoto lens is a highlight, providing exceptional performance even at 10x magnification, especially in good lighting.

Google’s smartphone excels in challenging lighting scenarios, handling bright or high-contrast scenes adeptly. In darker settings, Night Sight provides more accurate color representations compared to its competitors. Additionally, this year sees enhancements to the pixel portrait mode.

Zooming past 30x employs locally generated AI models to restore lost details during digital zooming, allowing users to choose between preprocessed and post-processed images. Composite: Samuel Gibbs/Guardian

Zoom capabilities extend from 30x to 100x, utilizing a local generative AI model to recover lost details and sharpness during digital zooming. It generally performs well, although not flawlessly. AI-generated images may sometimes display inconsistencies in perspective or details. However, capturing predictable subjects like buildings, vehicles, and trees leads to solid results, making the 100x zoom surprisingly user-friendly.

When capturing people, the camera avoids using the Genai model, which might be the most suitable option. Yet, like all generative AI systems, it can occasionally struggle to produce coherent outputs, mirroring what often appears as alien-like scripts.

The camera application has integrated C2PA Content Credentials, documenting not only how images were taken but also whether generative AI was involved in their creation. Best Take functionality captures multiple images with a single press of the shutter button.

The 10 Pro also features AI camera coaching capabilities seen in the standard 10, providing users with guidance on scene composition and optimal shooting angles.

The camera comes loaded with entertaining photography and videography modes, solidifying the 10 Pro’s status as a leading contender in the market.

Sustainability

The front and back of the Pixel feature scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The battery is designed to last through at least 1,000 full charge cycles, maintaining a minimum of 80% of its original capacity. The phone is repairable by Google, third-party shops, or through DIY methods. A repair manual and accessible parts are available.

The Pixel 10 Pro comprises 30% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tungsten, and tin. The company is transparent about the environmental impact of its phones and offers a program to recycle old devices free of charge.

Price

The Google Pixel 10 Pro is priced at £999 (€1,099/$999/$1,699), offering four color options.

In comparison, the Pixel 10 starts at £799, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is available at £1,199, while the Pixel 9a can be found at £399. The Samsung Galaxy S25 retails for £799, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is priced at £1,249, and the iPhone 16 Pro costs £999.

Verdict

The Pixel 10 Pro does not radically reinvent the smartphone with its enhancements but builds upon the successes of the Pixel 10, itself a strong contender this year. Yet it still elevates market-leading camera capabilities alongside advanced AI integration.

It offers reliable performance, solid battery life, and an attractive design, though avid gamers may prefer options with superior graphics. Google’s version of Android remains among the best, offering years of support for longevity.

Several new features in Gemini provide enhanced convenience with fewer gimmicks. Magic Cue is a valuable tool that saves time without being intrusive, though it could benefit from broader app integration.

The incorporation of generative AI into the camera app refines the zoom experience, albeit it does blur the distinction of traditional photography. Debates about authenticity in photography will undoubtedly arise as usefulness and novelty intersect.

The Pixel 10 Pro is among the finest compact smartphones available, showcasing just how sophisticated Google’s AI tools have become, surpassing both Apple and its other competitors.

Pros: Seven years of software updates, 5x optical zoom, 10x AI zoom, Magic Queue, impressive local AI features, Qi2 wireless charging with magnetic accessory support, solid battery life, excellent display, ergonomic size, quick fingerprint and face recognition, and a year of Google AI Pro subscription.

Cons: Relatively high price, does not match facial recognition safety, lacks best-in-class raw performance, and the absence of a physical SIM card slot in the US, with no major improvements over the standard Pixel 10.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tinseltown Takeover: The Rise of Harry Potter Fan Fiction as Hollywood’s Hottest Commodity

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

tFanfiction once involved sharing secret sketches in the hidden nooks of the internet. There, Darcy was envisioned as the roommate of a peculiar vampire. It was an underground pastime that went unnoticed by Tinseltown executives. Yet, here we are in 2025, according to Hollywood Reporter News. The iconic photo fetched at least $3 million (a staggering £2.2 million).

The backstory of Alchemy, Senlinyu appears somewhat nebulous. The original narrative by Senlinyu, titled Manacled, resided in a niche genre known as “Dramione,” where Hermione Granger often found herself entangled in an improbable romance with Draco Malfoy. Now devoid of any references to Hogwarts, Butterbeer, or Nimbus from the 2000s, and with characters renamed, Alchemy will hit shelves and online platforms later this month as a dark fantasy saga about a young woman grappling with memory loss, who finds herself at the mercy of a formidable and ruthless necromancer.

In a similar vein, The Love Hypothesis is making its way to cinemas. Lili Reinhart portrays a doctoral candidate who becomes involved with Professor Tom Bateman. If you think the pairing of Hermione and Draco is unusual, this one draws inspiration from a Star Wars fanfic subgenre known as Reiro, focusing on the taboo romance between Rey and Kylo Ren.

This isn’t the first occasion Hollywood has sought inspiration from fanfiction for its next blockbuster. While studios previously turned to pulp novels, classic theater, or acclaimed short stories from The New Yorker to fill theaters, producers are now increasingly looking towards Tumblr and our own archives, including AO3. In 2019, Sony Pictures Television secured a first-look deal with Wattpad, an online platform that has become a breeding ground for aspiring authors, generating scripted series and films based on the site’s most popular narratives. Wattpad started as a sassy take on One Direction but remarkably led to five films (direct-to-streaming) between 2019 and 2023, and also birthed the After series along the way.

And then, of course, there are the infamous 50 Shades. Originally a Twilight fanfic, it evolved into a trilogy of films that grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide, even though it was panned by critics. Its success demonstrated to studios that original research isn’t always essential. The saga begins with Edward and Bella’s intriguing narrative and could still be a billion-dollar franchise.

What drives Hollywood’s attraction to these projects? Logically, it relates to the brand recognition garnered through proxies. When given the option, Harry Potter enthusiasts are likely to want to see their beloved Hermione and Draco engaged in magical escapades. Meanwhile, readers of AO3’s “original” works, often numbering in the millions, feel a shared sense of ownership over this odd transition from fanfiction to the big screen—something studios greatly value.

Fanfiction is a source of existing enthusiasm that works to corporate advantage. Such immense online followings provide proof of concept, eliminating the need for focus groups or test screenings. They come equipped with a ready-made, highly enthusiastic community. In an industry where original scripts are often treated as financial risks, this data suggests that these films aren’t mere gambles; they are seen as incubators for franchises.

Source: www.theguardian.com

How to Select the Perfect Fertilizer for Your Varied Plants

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“For most plants, a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer would be fine.”

ShutterStock/Encierro

Farmers providing granulated fertilizer to young tomato plants while wearing gloves and using excavators in an organic garden. — “For most plants, a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer would be fine.”

ShutterStock/Encierro

A visit to the garden center reveals a multitude of fertilizers lining the shelves. These vibrant bottles promise optimal results for a range of plants, from lawns and roses to ferns and Japanese maples. But do home gardeners truly require them? Let’s explore the science behind it.

Plants require approximately 16 essential mineral nutrients, most of which are needed in minor quantities. At the heart of plant nutrition—fertilizer—lies three primary macronutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The main distinction between various fertilizers is the proportion of these nutrients, denoted on the label after the letters “NPK”.

For lush grass, opt for fertilizers with high nitrogen content. However, for flowering and fruiting plants like tomatoes and roses, a greater amount of potassium is necessary. Fortunately, gardeners don’t need to pore over every label; most fertilizers are conveniently labeled to indicate their best uses.

Things become more complicated, however. I recently compared three “expert” plant foods from well-known brands designed for roses, strawberries, and tomatoes. All had the identical NPK ratio of 4-2-6, making their only real difference the packaging. Ultimately, plants synthesize nutrients from the soil as needed. In most cases, a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer is sufficient. Curiously, some specialized feeds are merely repackaged versions of generic fertilizers.

Stocking a wide array of specific fertilizers is not only costly and unnecessary but can also be detrimental. Fertilizers should only be used to replenish deficient minerals in the soil. For instance, excessive nitrogen can result in soft and pest-prone growth or lead to poor-quality crops. In contrast, excess phosphorus is often washed away, contributing to water pollution and causing environmental damage, particularly in fertile regions like the UK, where garden soils are richer compared to agricultural lands. Intensive management practices often exacerbate this issue.

So, what’s the takeaway? Invest in affordable, user-friendly home soil tests instead of unnecessary fertilizers. Of course, there are some exceptions. Acid-loving plants like rhododendrons may need an iron boost, and other nutrients that are harder to absorb from neutral soils. Similarly, container plants (particularly those grown in nutrient-poor media like peat) typically require fertilizer supplements during their growing season. Nonetheless, for most home gardeners—including houseplant enthusiasts—a single balanced fertilizer is enough, giving you more time (and money) to enjoy nurturing your plants.

For additional projects, please visit NewsCientist.com/Maker

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

High Dosage of Wegovy: Impacts on Weight Loss and Side Effects

Posted on September 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Weekly Wegovy Injections Facilitate Weight Loss

James Manning/PA Images/Alamy

Testing reveals that a higher weekly dosage of Wegovy is linked to an increased risk of side effects.

Prior research indicates that individuals receiving the standard weekly doses of Wegovy, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, can lose up to 15% of their body weight over a year when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. This medication mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone akin to glucagon, which aids in numerous ways such as delaying stomach emptying and signaling the brain to suppress appetite.

Produced by the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, Wegovy is approved for use among individuals with obesity or those who are overweight and possess at least one weight-related condition like type 2 diabetes. “However, some patients may not experience the desired level of weight loss or may seek more than the average 10-15% reduction,” says Lora Heisler, who was not part of the research team from the University of Aberdeen in the UK.

To explore the potential benefits of increased dosage, Shawn Wharton and colleagues, including scientists from the University of Toronto and Novo Nordisk, studied over 1,000 obese adults across 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe.

Participants, all without diabetes, were randomly assigned to receive either a high dosage of 7.2 milligrams or the standard 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide, alongside a placebo injection mimicking Wegovy. Doses of semaglutide were gradually elevated over several weeks, and all participants were encouraged to maintain a caloric deficit of 500 calories per day and engage in physical activity for 150 minutes weekly.

After one year, those receiving the standard dosage lost an average of 16% of their body weight, while the high-dose group achieved about 19% weight loss. Conversely, the placebo group lost approximately 44% of their body weight.

One-third of participants in the standard dosage category experienced over 20% weight loss, compared to almost half in the high-dose group. Only 3% in the placebo group reached this threshold, indicating that higher dosages can significantly enhance weight loss outcomes, according to Heisler.

At the onset of the study, more than one-third of participants in each group had prediabetes, marked by elevated blood sugar levels without qualifying for type 2 diabetes. By the study’s conclusion, diabetes cases in the high-dose group decreased by 83%, while cases within the standard-dose group fell by 74%. “This is highly encouraging, as the main objective of weight loss is to enhance overall health,” Heisler remarks.

Nevertheless, there are noteworthy drawbacks. Bowel-related side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, were reported by 61% in the standard-dose group, while 71% in the high-dose category experienced similar issues. In comparison, 40% of those taking the placebo also faced these symptoms, which might not be directly related to the treatment, according to Heisler.

Moreover, over 20% of the high-dose group reported unpleasant skin sensations known as dysesthesia. As a result, four participants discontinued their treatment. By contrast, only 6% of the standard-dose recipients and just one in the placebo group reported this side effect, with no one ceasing treatment.

These findings indicate that the advantages of higher dosages may outweigh the associated risks for certain individuals, according to Heisler. “For those requiring substantial weight loss who don’t experience many side effects, the higher dose may facilitate their goals,” she states. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals achieving sufficient weight loss on standard doses or those enduring severe side effects. She emphasizes the need for additional trials to validate these results before clinical application.

In a separate trial, Wharton and his team suggest that higher dosages might yield greater weight loss and enhanced blood glucose levels in individuals with both obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the results were not statistically significant, indicating a need for further investigation, says Simon Cork from Anglia Ruskin University in the UK.

Topics:

obesity/
Weight loss drugs

Source: www.newscientist.com

Psychologists Warn: The Phrases You Should Avoid After a Death (and What to Say Instead)

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Experiencing bereavement is one of life’s toughest challenges. Offering love and support can truly make a significant impact, and it’s admirable to want to help those who are grieving.

Everyone’s sadness is unique, which complicates knowing what to say. In those raw moments, simply being present and offering your love and time may be the most valuable support you can provide.

Research indicates that empathizing with others can be more challenging than we realize. Avoid making assumptions about their feelings; instead, gently ask what they are experiencing.

If you’re uncertain whether they prefer solitude, give them an option. You might say, “Would you like me to come by later?” rather than simply texting, “Let me know how I can help.”

Since close relationships may benefit from practical support, offering to help with meals or tasks can be greatly appreciated. However, always provide an opt-out option, such as leaving food at the door instead of entering.

Additionally, prioritize emotional support over giving advice or trying to reframe the situation positively. Listen attentively to their feelings and what they need at that moment.

If appropriate, consider employing techniques related to “active listening.” For instance, paraphrasing or echoing their words can show that you genuinely understand their emotional state.

As time passes and if their emotional pain decreases, it might be suitable to transition to what psychologists refer to as “cognitive advice.”

This could involve helping them find constructive ways to express their sadness and discover hope, such as making positive changes to their routines.

We often think we understand someone else’s sadness, but research shows that isn’t always the case. Instead, it’s crucial to be curious, ask how they feel, and really listen – Credit: via Klaus Vedfelt

If the grieving person indicates they prefer solitude, don’t take that as a permanent preference. Make sure to check in regularly in a non-judgmental manner.

Reaching out occasionally can be incredibly meaningful, especially since it can be hard for them to re-engage.

Psychologists recommend expressing sadness as a helpful coping strategy, often best done with the support of others.

For instance, you might plan a memorial activity, reminisce about the loved one they’ve lost, commemorate a significant anniversary, or visit places that hold special memories.

So, when the time feels right, consider joining your friends and loved ones in commemorating and celebrating the lives of those they’ve lost.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each person’s timeline for healing is unique.

However, if your loved one continues to struggle with their grief more than six months later, they may benefit from seeking professional help.

This article responds to the inquiry (Neil Myers, asked by Lincoln): “How should I talk to someone who just lost a loved one?”

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

Check out our ultimate Fun fact More amazing science pages

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Mysterious Stonehenge Found Beneath Lake Michigan Stuns Archaeologists

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Stone circles are remnants of ancient rituals and druidic lore. Most people recognize the stone rings at Stonehenge, located near Amesbury, England; which dates back to 2500 BC (around 4,525 years ago). However, numerous examples of “menhills” (standing stones) and other ancient stone arrangements can be found globally.

In fact, some of these stone monuments predate Stonehenge. For instance, the Oyyu Stone Circle in Northern Japan is estimated to be about 3,500 years old, having been discovered in 1931. Additionally, there are various Aboriginal stone circles throughout Australia; some of which may be nearly 10,000 years old.

Conversely, stone monuments are uncommon in America. Thus, in 2007, archaeologists were thrilled to uncover what seems to be a human-made stone arrangement at the bottom of Lake Michigan.

One archaeologist, Mark Holly, has since been seeking funds to drill at the site while keeping its exact location confidential to prevent disturbances.

Currently, the origin of these stones remains unclear. One theory suggests that they may indicate “driving lanes” for caribou hunting, reflecting a different study. 9,000-year-old stone arrangements found on Lake Huron would have been visible when the lanes were marked.

Lake Michigan remained dry until approximately 15,000 years ago. Therefore, these stones might have been arranged significantly earlier than those found at Lake Huron or Stonehenge.

This article addresses the inquiry by John McPherson from Ripon: “Are there any other stoneworks?”

For further questions, please email us at Question @sciencefocus.com or reach out via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. (Make sure to include your name and location.)

Explore our ultimate Fun fact More amazing science pages

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Elon Musk Urges Parliament Dissolution at London Far-Right Rally

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Elon Musk advocated for the “dissolution of Parliament” and a “change in government” in the UK during a London “Unity” rally organized by far-right activist Stephen Yexley Lennon, commonly known as Tommy Robinson.

Musk, the proprietor of X, connected through video links, as thousands listened to Robinson oppose the “woke mind virus,” asserting, “violence is coming” and cautioned the audience, “you’ll fight back or die.”

He remarked: “I firmly believe there needs to be a change in the UK government. I can’t. There can’t be another four years.”

“We must take action. The Assembly needs to be dissolved, and a new election must occur.”

This isn’t Musk’s first foray into British politics. He previously engaged in a verbal clash with the UK government regarding grooming gangs and criticized the 2023 online safety law, denouncing it as a threat to free speech.

Although he shared a warm rapport with Nigel Farage, rumors swirled that he might lead a donation to Farage’s party before calling for reform within British leadership amid the controversy surrounding Robinson’s support.

Musk addressed the crowd in central London:

Aviation footage shows the scale of the rally “Unifying the Kingdom” – Video

“This is directed at the rational center, those who don’t usually engage in politics but simply seek to live their lives.

“My message aligns with them. If this persists, violence will reach you, leaving you with no choice. You are in a critical situation here.

“Whether you decide to resort to violence or not, it is inevitable. You either resist or perish; that’s the reality.”

With Katie Hopkins and Tommy Robinson at the “Kingdom” rally in central London on Saturday. Photo: Lucy North/Pennsylvania

Musk further asserted, “The left is the murder party,” referencing the death of Charlie Kirk.

He stated: “There is a tremendous amount of violence from the left. My friend Charlie Kirk was murdered in cold blood this week, and those from the left are openly celebrating it. The left embodies a party of murder and revels in killing.”

Additionally, he criticized what he termed the Awakening Mind Virus, asserting that merit should dictate progress, not “discrimination based on gender, religion, race, etc.”

Flares are launched as police attempt to control the crowd at the rally. Photo: Tayfun Sarcı/EPA

He remarked: “Many awakening movements are inherently super racist, super sexist, and often anti-religious. Why is there such unfairness against anti-Christians? It’s unjust… it’s all aspects of awakening, and I’m labeling it; it’s fundamentally contradictory.”

Attendance was estimated to exceed 110,000 individuals at what is regarded as one of the largest nationalist gatherings in decades. Marchers encountered approximately 5,000 anti-racist counter-protesters.

Along with Musk, figures like Katie Hopkins and French far-right politician Eric Zemmour were also present as speakers at the event.

PA Media contributed to this report

Source: www.theguardian.com

British Companies Utilizing “Bossware” to Monitor Employee Activities, According to Research

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A significant portion of UK employers, about one-third, are utilizing “bossware” technology to monitor employee activities, predominantly through methods like email and web browsing surveillance.

Private sector firms are the most inclined to implement onsite monitoring, with one in seven employers reportedly recording or assessing screen activities, as per a comprehensive UK study on office surveillance.

These insights, disclosed by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) to the Guardian, are derived from feedback from numerous UK managers, indicating a recent uptick in computer-based work monitoring.

According to 2023 research by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), less than 20% of respondents believed they were being monitored by their employers. The finding that roughly one-third of managers are aware of their organizations tracking employees’ online activities on company devices likely underrepresents the issue.

Many of these surveillance tools are designed to mitigate insider threats, safeguard confidential data, and identify dips in productivity. However, this growing trend seems to be inducing anxiety among employees. CMI highlights that many managerial figures oppose such practices, arguing they erode trust and infringe on personal privacy.

A manager at an insurance firm developing an AI system for monitoring staff screen activity expressed feelings of “unease,” questioning, “Do they trust employees to perform their roles? Is there an intention to replace them with AI?”

One employee monitoring service provides insights into workers’ “idle hours,” tracks “employee productivity,” flags unapproved AI or social media use, and offers “real-time data on employee behavior, including screenshots, screen recordings, keystrokes, and application usage.”

In light of these findings, the ICO emphasized that employers “must inform employees about the nature, scope, and reasons for surveillance,” noting that excessive monitoring “can infringe on personal privacy,” especially for remote workers. They warned of potential actions if necessary.

Last year, the ICO prohibited outsourced company Serco from utilizing facial recognition technology and fingerprint scanning to manage staff attendance at various leisure centers.

Monitoring often includes ensuring that inappropriate content isn’t accessed, according to CMI. However, they cautioned, “If it feels like an invasion, there can be long-term implications.”

Petra Wilton, policy director at CMI, stated, “If implemented, this could be of significant concern to employers and raise serious data privacy and protection issues.”

Recent examples of workplace surveillance methods include: HSBC’s installation of numerous security cameras and 1,754 biometric readers as a means of accessing their new London headquarters.

Skip past newsletter promotions

PWC has recently rolled out a “traffic light” system utilizing badge swipes and WiFi connection data to ensure staff attend the office at least three days a week. A spokesperson from PWC noted this was “well received by most of our employees.”

A former senior public transport worker, who requested anonymity, shared their experience of facing online surveillance, describing it as “distracting and deeply intrusive.”

“It began with surveillance, and I eventually left because I was extremely frustrated,” they noted. CMI research revealed that one in six managers would contemplate seeking new employment if their organization started monitoring online activities on work devices.

Among managers aware of their employers monitoring them, 35% indicated surveillance of emails. Overall, tracking login/logout times and system access emerged as the most prevalent form of monitoring.

The survey showed that 53% of managers endorse monitoring employee online activity on company devices, but 42% feel this not only undermines trust but also fails to enhance performance, potentially resulting in misuse or unjust disciplinary action.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Maximizing ChatGPT as a Study Ally in University: A Guide to Ethical Use

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

For numerous students, ChatGpt has become an essential tool akin to a notebook or calculator.

With its capabilities to refine grammar, organize revisions, and create flashcards, AI is swiftly establishing itself as a dependable ally in higher education. However, educational institutions are grappling to adapt to this technological shift. Are you utilizing it for comprehension? That’s fine. Do you intend to use it for your assignments? Not permitted.

As per Recent Reports from the Institute for Higher Education Policy, nearly 92% of students are now using generative AI in some capacity, a notable rise from 66% the preceding year.

“To be honest, everyone is using it,” states Magan Chin, a master’s student in technology policy at Cambridge. She shares her preferred AI research techniques on TikTok, ranging from chat-based learning sessions to prompts with insightful notes.

“It has progressed. Initially, many viewed ChatGpt as a form of cheating, believing it undermined our critical thinking abilities. But it has now transitioned into a research partner and conversational tool that enhances our skills.”

“People just refer to it as ‘chat,’” she noted about its popular nickname.

When used judiciously, it can transform into a potent self-study resource. Chin suggests feeding class notes into the system and asking it to generate practice exam questions.

“You can engage in verbal dialogues as if with a professor and interact with it,” she remarked, adding that it can also produce diagrams and summarize challenging topics.

Jayna Devani, International Education Leader at OpenAI, ChatGpt’s US-based developer, endorses this interactive method. “You can upload course materials and request multiple-choice questions,” she explains. “It aids in breaking down complicated tasks into essential steps and clarifying concepts.”

However, there exists the potential for overreliance. Chin and her peers employ what they call “push-back techniques.”

“When ChatGpt provides an answer, consider what alternative perspectives others might offer,” she advises. “We utilize it as a contrasting view, but we acknowledge that it is just one voice among many.” She encourages exploring how others might approach the topic differently.

Such positive applications are generally welcomed by universities. Nevertheless, the academic community is addressing concerns regarding AI misuse, with many educators expressing significant apprehensions about its effect on the university experience.

Graham Wynn, Principal of Education at Northumbria University, asserts that while it can be used for assistance and structuring assessments, students should not depend on AI for knowledge and content. “Students can easily find themselves in trouble with hallucinations, fabricated references, and misleading content.”

Northumbria, similar to numerous universities, employs AI detectors that can flag submissions indicative of potential overdependence. Students at the University of the Arts London (UAL) are required to keep a log of their AI usage and integrate it into their individual creative processes.

As with most emerging technologies, developments are rapid. The AI tools utilized by students today are already prevalent in workplaces where they will soon enter. However, universities focus on processes, not merely outcomes, reinforcing the message from educators: support AI in learning but do not substitute it.

“AI literacy is an essential skill for students,” states a UAL spokesperson.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Password Security 1: How Scammers Exploit Login Variations | Money

Posted on September 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

the initial clue is when you discover that someone has accessed one of your accounts. You’re focused on your details and cannot pinpoint the issue, but you made one mistake: reusing some passwords.

Even if a password is altered to include numbers and symbols, reusing the same base word can still provide an opening for criminals to gain access to your account.

Ethical “white hat” hacker Brandin Murtagh explains that information leaked through data breaches from sites like Dropbox and Tumblr, as well as cyberattacks, has been circulating on the internet for quite a while.

Hackers often obtain passwords and check if they work on other sites, a practice known as credential stuffing.

In some instances, hackers not only attempt the exact passwords from the compromised data but also try variants of those passwords to access accounts.

A Virgin Media O2 study found that four out of five people use the same or nearly identical passwords across their online accounts.

Using slightly modified passwords, such as Guardian1 instead of Guardian, creates an inviting opportunity for hackers to breach online accounts, warns Murtagh.

Collaborating with Virgin Media O2, he demonstrates to volunteers how effortlessly passwords can be traced with just an email address, often yielding results in mere minutes.

A spokesperson from Virgin Media O2 stated: “Human behavior is quite predictable. Criminals can utilize one password and then simply add a period or exclamation point at the end.”

What does fraud look like?

Criminals utilize a series of automated processes—scripts on computers that execute password variations to attempt access to additional accounts. This can occur on an industrial scale, according to Murtagh.

“It’s uncommon to be targeted as an individual; you’re typically caught in groups of thousands being targeted. These operations scale like a business,” he explains.

You may receive a warning message indicating a change to your email address or other account details.

What to do

Change the password to something distinct from the previous variants. Murtagh suggests focusing on the four most important accounts: banking, email, work-related, and mobile.

Utilize a password manager, often integrated into web browsers. For instance, Apple provides an iCloud Keychain, while Android offers Google Password Manager, both of which can generate and store complex passwords securely.

Implement two-factor authentication or multifactor authentication (2FA or MFA), which adds an additional layer of security by requiring two steps to log into the site.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Most Terrible Space Suit Ever Created

Posted on September 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

When venturing beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, spacesuits become crucial. These human-sized miniature spacecraft are designed to shield astronauts from harmful solar radiation, extreme temperatures, low atmospheric pressure, and the impacts of micrometeorites.

The moon presents additional challenges, such as sharply defined lunar dust that can damage the suit’s joints and disrupt its materials.

It’s essential for spacesuits to provide remarkable freedom of movement, as astronauts frequently exit their spacecraft to conduct intricate repairs on equipment.

In emergencies, swift donning of the suit is beneficial. Furthermore, a full life support system should be integrated to regulate air supply and temperature.

Since astronauts may need to wear their suits for extended periods, considerations for food, hydration, and other bodily functions are vital.

Over the years, there have been Various designs, although not all have met these necessary standards accurately.

In 1962, the peculiar hard-shell suit known as the Grumman underwent brief testing. It resembled a fusion of a dustbin and a blender, but its limited mobility was a significant drawback.

Another design, the Hardshell “ax” suit, was also tested, primarily constructed from aluminum with rotary joints akin to futuristic armor, but it never made it to any missions.

Most functional spacesuits have been crafted from flexible multi-layer composite fabrics, with rigid shells reserved for specific areas like the helmet and upper torso.

Future suits may be even more advanced.

Biosuit proposed by Professor Dava Newman at MIT – Image credit: Dava Newman/Professor MIT/Guillermo Trotti/Douglas Sonders Photography

Researchers are currently focused on creating self-healing materials, ensuring that issues arising from extended missions to Mars are mitigated. One of the most innovative concepts is the Bio Suit, proposed by Professor Dava Newman at MIT.

Astronauts would wear suits made from flexible fabric that, when activated, reduces the embedded shape memory alloy coil, allowing the suit to conform perfectly to the skin, offering exceptional mobility and style.

Alternatively, the most intriguing designs feature proposed FO-RO (forward and reverse osmosis) systems.

Similar to a still suit from Sand Dunes, this suit can recycle astronaut urine into drinking water.

This article answers a question from Erica Morris via email: “What will the future spaceship look like?”

Feel free to email us your questions at Question @sciencefocus.com or message Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram Page (please include your name and location).

Discover our ultimate Fun facts and explore more astounding science content

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Transforming Education: Educators Explore AI’s Role in University Skills Development

Posted on September 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently shared on a US podcast that if he were graduating today, “I would feel like the luckiest child in history.”

Altman, who launched ChatGPT in November 2022, is convinced that the transformative power of AI will create unparalleled opportunities for the younger generation.

While there are shifts in the job market, Altman notes, “this is a common occurrence.” He adds, “Young people are great at adapting.” Exciting new jobs are increasingly emerging, offering greater possibilities.

For sixth-form students in the UK and their families contemplating university decisions—what to study and where—Altman’s insights may provide reassurance amidst the choices they face in the age of generative AI. However, in this rapidly evolving landscape, experts emphasize the importance of equipping students to maximize their university experiences and be well-prepared for future employment.

Dr. Andrew Rogoiski from the People-Centered Institute of AI at Surrey University points out that many students are already navigating the AI landscape. “The pace of change is significant, often outpacing academic institutions. Typically, academic institutions move slowly and cautiously, ensuring fair access.”

“In a very short time, we’ve accelerated from zero to 100. Naturally, the workforce is adapting as well.”

What advice does he have for future students? “Inquire. Ask questions. There are diverse career paths available. Make sure your university is keeping up with these changes.”

Students not yet familiar with AI should invest time in learning about it and integrating it into their studies, regardless of their chosen field. Rogoiski asserts that proficiency with AI tools has become as essential as literacy: “It’s critical to understand what AI can and can’t do,” and “being resourceful and adaptable is key.”

He continues:

“Then, I begin to assess how the university is addressing AI integration. Are my course and the university as a whole effectively utilizing AI?”

While there’s a wealth of information available online, Rogoiski advises students to engage with universities directly, asking academics, “What is your strategy? What is your stance? Are you preparing graduates for a sustainable future?”

Dan Hawes, co-founder of an expert recruitment consultancy, expresses optimism for the future of UK graduates, asserting that the current job market slowdown is more influenced by economic factors than AI. “Predicting available jobs three or four years from now is challenging, but I believe graduates will be highly sought after,” he states. “This is a generation that has grown up with AI, meaning employers will likely be excited to bring this new talent into their organizations.”

“Thus, when determining study options for sixth-form students, parents should consider the employment prospects connected to specific universities.”

For instance, degrees in mathematics are consistently in high demand among his clients, a trend unlikely to shift soon. “AI will not diminish the skills and knowledge gained from a mathematics degree,” he asserts.

He acknowledges that AI poses challenges for students considering higher education alongside their parents. “Yet I believe it will ultimately be beneficial, making jobs more interesting, reshaping roles, and creating new ones.”

Elena Simperl, a computer science professor at King’s College London, co-directs the King’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence and advises students to explore AI offerings across all university departments. “AI is transforming our processes. It’s not just about how we write emails, read documents, or find information,” she notes.

Students should contemplate how to shape their careers in AI. “DeepMind suggests AI could serve as co-scientists, meaning fully automated AI labs will conduct research. Therefore, universities must train students to maximize these technologies,” she remarks. “It doesn’t matter what they wish to study; they should choose universities that offer extensive AI expertise, extending beyond just computer science.”

Professor Simperl observes that evidence suggests no jobs will vanish completely. “We need to stop focusing on which roles AI may eliminate and consider how it can enhance various tasks. Those skilled in using AI will possess a significant advantage.”

In this new AI-driven landscape, is a degree in English literature or history still valuable? “Absolutely, provided it is taught well,” asserts Rogoiski. “Such studies should impart skills that endure throughout one’s lifetime—appreciation of literature, effective writing, critical thinking, and communication are invaluable abilities.”

“The application of that degree will undoubtedly evolve, but if taught effectively, the lessons learned will resonate throughout one’s life. If nothing else, our AI overlords may take over most work, allowing us more leisure time to read, while relying on universal basic income.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Severe Nausea: Are Electric Vehicles Causing Car Sickness?

Posted on September 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

During a year of driving his daughter to school in a new electric vehicle, Phil Bellamy realized that she was anxious about taking a 10-minute ride every day.

While Bellamy, 51, had no issues with the car, his teenage daughter experienced nausea each time she got in. Research indicates that this is a common problem: many individuals who do not suffer from motion sickness in traditional vehicles find themselves affected by it in electric vehicles (EVs).

Concerned about his family’s aversion to riding in his car, Bellamy altered his driving style and considered purchasing a different vehicle, but the issue persisted. His daughters try to avoid traveling with him whenever they can.

“If we go on a trip, they make sure to take motion sickness tablets immediately. They wouldn’t even think of getting in the car without them,” he explains.

Bellamy appreciates driving electric cars for their quietness and smoothness compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles, though he hopes manufacturers will address the concerns of passengers affected by motion sickness.

Factors contributing to motion sickness include the relatively rapid acceleration of EVs compared to gasoline vehicles, the regenerative braking system, and the absence of sensory cues such as engine noise and vibrations while driving.

Research from China, a major electric vehicle producer, has found that EVs tend to induce more severe motion sickness symptoms than traditional vehicles.

Content creator Atia Chain from London shared her experiences on TikTok about suffering from car sickness in an EV this summer when she relied on Ubers for transportation.

Chain reports feeling “extreme nausea” shortly after getting in the EV, which ceased soon after she exited. It took her some time to realize that this happened only in electric vehicles. Now, she tends to avoid Ubers due to the prevalence of EVs.

“Usually, the nausea started right away as soon as the trip began. The first minute was particularly bad. I would roll down the window and find something to distract myself,” she shares. “The sickness lingered throughout the journey. If the Uber ride was 20 minutes long, I’d count down the minutes until I could get out.”

John Golding, a professor of applied psychology at Westminster University in London, explains that motion sickness has a particularly strong effect on passengers because it relates to their ability to anticipate changes in movement.

While the driver controls the vehicle, passengers, especially those seated in the back, may feel helpless. This could pose challenges for the future of self-driving cars.

Golding notes that the automotive industry is aware of the issue of motion sickness among some EV passengers and is actively researching ways to help them predict movement changes. For instance, car seat vibrations may alert passengers to changes in direction.

He suggests that individuals may also use motion sickness medication or adopt behavioral changes to cope. “The simplest solution is to sit in the front seat and have a clear view. It allows you to see and anticipate what will happen next, whereas sitting in the back means you can only see what has already happened,” he advises.

Consider motion sickness medication which can be obtained in patches or tablets from pharmacies, helping manage how your brain and body react to movement. It’s most effective when taken before travel.

Wear acupressure bands which some studies suggest may help, though results could primarily be attributed to the placebo effect. “If it works for you, don’t dismiss it,” Golding remarks.

Listen to low-frequency sounds. A study from Nagoya University in Japan indicates that certain vibrations at 100Hz may stimulate a part of the inner ear responsible for detecting gravity and acceleration.

Source: www.theguardian.com

US Government Files Lawsuit Against Uber for Alleged Discrimination Against Disabled Passengers

Posted on September 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

On Thursday, the U.S. government filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging that the ride-sharing service has breached federal laws by discriminating against passengers with disabilities.

The complaint, submitted in federal court in San Francisco, claims that Uber drivers frequently refuse to transport disabled riders, including those accompanied by service animals or using wheelchairs.

Additionally, the department stated that Uber and its drivers unlawfully impose cleaning fees for service animals on riders denied service and also charge cancellation fees.

Some drivers are reportedly dismissing legitimate requests, such as humiliating persons with disabilities or preventing passengers with mobility challenges from sitting in the front seats.

According to the Justice Department, “Uber’s discriminatory actions have inflicted significant financial, emotional, and physical harm on individuals with disabilities,” violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In response, Uber stated that it disputes the allegations and is dedicated to enhancing access and the overall experience for riders with disabilities.

Uber further asserts that riders utilizing guide dogs or requiring other assistance “deserve a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience with Uber. A complete stop.”

The complaint outlines 17 instances of alleged misconduct involving Uber.

One instance involves JE, a seven-year-old amputee from the Bronx, New York, who reportedly faced refusal from an Uber driver after attending his brother’s birthday party due to his wheelchair.

Another case highlights Jason Ludwig, a Gulf War veteran with a service dog, who was denied a ride to Norfolk Airport in Virginia, causing him to miss his flight and return to Yarmouth, Massachusetts, after 16 hours of travel.

Jeff Clark, a third rider from Mount Laurel, New Jersey, claims that four drivers canceled their ride in Philadelphia within 17 minutes.

The lawsuit aims for an injunction to prevent further violations of the ADA, along with demands for improvements in Uber’s practices and training, financial compensation, and civil penalties.

A spokesperson for the Department of Justice was not available for immediate comment.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Octopuses Prefer Specific Arms for Specific Tasks

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The latest research aims to thoroughly investigate how wild octopuses utilize their arms within their natural environments. This pioneering study correlates arm movements to the entire animal in intricate, real-world contexts by examining arm dynamics across various settings. The results indicate that all arms are capable of executing all types of actions, yet a distinct pattern of arm specialization was evident. The front arms primarily engage in movements that aid in exploration, whereas the rear arms focus on facilitating locomotion. Additionally, the octopus displayed remarkable adaptability, with a single arm executing multiple actions simultaneously, showcasing coordination among different arms—signifying advanced motor control.

Illustrations of 12 arm actions from various wild octopus behaviors. These cephalopods frequently employ multiple arm actions at once, either on one arm or across several. Image credits: Venice et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-10674-y.

The structure of an octopus arm is intricate, comprising four distinct muscle groups oriented horizontally, vertically, diagonally, and circularly around a central nerve.

This arrangement allows the octopus’s arms to adapt in numerous ways, enabling a variety of actions essential for tasks such as hunting, locomotion, and self-defense.

Despite this complexity, there is still a limited understanding of how wild octopuses utilize and modify their arms.

In this new study, Chelsea Venice and her colleagues at Florida Atlantic University analyzed 25-minute video recordings of wild octopuses filmed in the Atlantic and Caribbean between 2007 and 2015.

The observed octopuses belonged to the species Octopus vulgaris or closely related species such as Octopus insularis and Octopus americanus.

The researchers documented which arms were used each time an octopus exhibited one of 15 distinct behaviors (like crawling).

They also noted the combinations of 12 different arm actions (e.g., curling) and four distinct deformations (e.g., extension) executed by each arm during these activities.

Researchers found that every octopus is capable of transforming all eight arms in four diverse ways, enabling every arm to perform all actions.

The study revealed that both sides of the body utilize arms equally, although the front four arms are more actively engaged than the rear four (64% versus 36%).

The front arms are primarily employed for exploring, while the rear arms primarily assist in movement.

Consequently, two actions are notably more frequent with the rear arms: rolling, where the arm glides along the seabed akin to a conveyor belt, and lifting, where the arm extends vertically downwards.

“Our findings are among the first to demonstrate that octopuses utilize specific limbs for designated tasks—a behavior previously only documented in primates, rodents, and fish,” stated the researchers.

“These discoveries could inform advancements in robotic arms designed to replicate the functionality of the octopus.”

This study was published this week in the journal Scientific Reports.

____

Co Bennice et al. 2025. The flexibility of the octopus arm enhances complex behavior across various natural environments. Sci Rep 15, 31875; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-10674-y

Source: www.sci.news

What We Know About Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Following 1i/oumuamua and 2i/borisov, 3i/atlas is the third object and has been confirmed as the second comet originating from outside the solar system.

This image from the Gemini North Telescope Multi-Object Spectrometer (GMOS-N) depicts the interstellar comet 3i/Atlas. Image credits: International Gemini Observatory/Noirlab/NSF/Aura/K. Meech, Ifa&U. Hawaii / Jen Miller & Mahdi Zamani, Noirlab.

The comet 3i/Atlas was identified on July 1, 2025, by the Asteroid Land Impact Trastor Alt System (ATLAS), a project supported by NASA.

Also referred to as C/2025 N1 (ATLAS) and A11PL3Z, the comet is approaching from the direction of Sagittarius.

Its orbit is the most dynamically extreme among the objects documented within the solar system.

“While aliens may not be the first to engage with us, 3i/Atlas has much to teach us, as it is merely the third recorded interstellar entity to traverse our solar system,” stated Jacqueline McClary, an astronomer at Northeastern University.

“All comet-like interstellar bodies are unique in that they are the only ones that have provided us with physical observations coming from outside our solar system. They serve as messengers from afar.”

“Given how rare it is to detect interstellar objects within our solar system, each discovery is distinct,” remarked Adina Feinstein, an astronomer at Michigan State University.

“3i/Atlas presents an opportunity to examine other solar systems closely, without the necessity of traveling to them.”

From the moment 3i/Atlas was observed, it was evident that it deviated from typical comet behavior. Initially, it appeared to emit an unusual light.

Comets are generally very dark, which makes them challenging for astronomers to detect initially.

As they near the sun, solar radiation prompts volatile compounds and ice to sublimate from their surfaces.

This process leads to the formation of a coma, which ultimately evolves into the iconic tail associated with comets across the night sky.

“Jupiter is positioned 5 AU from the Sun, and most comets need to approach closer for solar radiation to generate enough intensity to form this melted tail,” Dr. McClary said.

“Comet 3I/Atlas developed its coma at a considerably greater distance than typical, remaining beyond Jupiter’s orbit.”

3i/Atlas began to emit light far from the sun, prompting initial speculation that it could be an extraterrestrial spacecraft. What else could emit light so rapidly?

However, later observations suggested that it not only possesses a comet-like tail but is also rich in carbon dioxide.

The NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope has ultimately unveiled that comets are remarkable for attributes beyond their interstellar heritage.

Not only was it composed primarily of carbon dioxide, but it also exhibited an extraordinary ratio of carbon dioxide ice to water ice, the best ever documented.

This discovery allows for insight into the conditions that prevail in other solar systems and how such systems were initially formed.

“Clearly, the parent system of 3i/Atlas may have had a wealth of carbon dioxide, or perhaps a unique radiative process occurred that led to the depletion of other materials, leaving abundant carbon dioxide,” Dr. McClary remarked.

“By understanding the composition of this comet and comparing it with other interstellar comets, we gain insight into solar system formation across different environments.”

The precise origin of 3i/atlas remains elusive.

“It likely hails from the Milky Way’s bulge, but pinpointing its exact source will be challenging,” Dr. McCleary commented.

“For it to have escaped its parent solar system, the comet must have undergone a gravitational disturbance that altered its trajectory, setting it on its current path into the solar system.”

Nevertheless, scientists have gained a more intricate understanding of the comet, having observed it crossing Jupiter’s orbit since October, elucidating more about its characteristics.

The Juno satellite orbiting Jupiter is ideally suited to observe these interstellar visitors.

“We may be able to observe this comet with remarkable clarity. It could prove particularly intriguing as it nears the sun, causing significant carbon dioxide vaporization, so we can assess what remains,” Dr. McClary stated.

Gaining more knowledge about 3i/Atlas assists not only in comprehending the nature of other solar systems, but also in exploring the conditions under which sentient life might arise, given the uniqueness of our solar system.

“This serves as a window into the primitive materials of other solar systems, which is invaluable for refining models of solar system formation,” Dr. McCullilia said.

“Is our solar system common or rare? It appears to be relatively uncommon, offering us a way to quantify its uniqueness.”

“Investigating other solar systems places humanity in a broader context,” Dr. Feinstein remarked.

“One of the most profound questions we face is, are we alone in the universe? Each NASA mission brings us a step closer to answering this monumental question.”

“Capturing numerous observations of these interstellar objects, especially as they approach the sun, is crucial for understanding their behaviors,” noted John Noonan, an astronomer at Auburn University.

“These interstellar objects may not have been significantly warmed in millions, if not billions, of years, making it fascinating to study how they react to early thermal exposure.”

Source: www.sci.news

Addressing Rising Childhood Obesity: Strategies Beyond Nutritional Deficiency

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ultra-processed foods might contribute to the growing obesity epidemic in children

UNICEF/UN0846048/Florence Gou

For the first time, a significant number of children worldwide are experiencing obesity rather than malnutrition. This trend signifies a critical shift in childhood nutrition. While many strategies exist to combat hunger, few address obesity specifically.

“Despite years of attempts to prevent obesity, particularly in children and adolescents, we are not achieving satisfactory outcomes,” notes Andrea Richardson from RAND, a California-based nonprofit research organization.

A new report by Harriet Torres from UNICEF Belgium and her team utilized data from a comprehensive study to evaluate the nutritional status of children aged 5 to 19. This initiative, called the Collaboration of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors, encompasses over 160 countries and territories, representing more than 90% of the global child population.

The findings indicate that global childhood obesity rates have nearly tripled since 2000, with around 9.4% of children classified as obese versus 9.2% who are undernourished. This marks a significant moment, as obesity now outnumbers nutritional deficiencies in children.

Most troubling is the sharp increase in obesity rates in low- and middle-income nations. “Over 80% of children facing overweight and obesity globally are from these regions,” highlighting that this is no longer merely a high-income issue; it’s a pervasive global concern.

This situation necessitates that governments and organizations rethink their strategies regarding childhood malnutrition. “We are observing not just nutritional deficiencies but all forms of malnutrition,” asserts Shivani Ghosh from Cornell University, New York. Unfortunately, effective methods to combat obesity are still lacking, unlike those available for hunger.

The UNICEF report criticizes the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in contributing to rising obesity rates among youth. These foods, made using industrial processes, typically contain additives and preservatives and are high in fats, sugars, and salts. Common examples include packaged snacks, candies, chips, and sodas. The report claims that ultra-processed foods contribute to at least half of the calorie intake for children in Australia, Canada, the U.S., and U.K., and about a third in some low- and middle-income countries such as Argentina and Mexico.

Numerous studies indicate that ultra-processed foods correlate positively with obesity rates. However, the policies aimed at reducing their consumption have seldom led to significant declines in obesity.

For instance, Mexico was the first country to impose a tax on certain high-calorie foods and sugar-sweetened drinks in 2014. Following this, sales for these items decreased, particularly among lower-income families. Adolescent obesity rates experienced only minimal change, notably impacting only teenage girls, similar to the outcome in the U.K. after a tax was levied on sugary drinks in 2018.

Conversely, Chile has implemented some of the strictest regulations regarding ultra-processed products. In 2016, it limited marketing for these foods and mandated warning labels for those high in calories, salt, saturated fats, and sugars. As a result, obesity rates among children aged 4-6 decreased by 1-3 percentage points within a year. However, the figures reverted to baseline by 2018, and in 2019, obesity rates in 14-year-olds rose by 2 percentage points, underlining the ineffectiveness of these measures.

Torless provides a different perspective, stating, “No single intervention is sufficient. Some countries are imposing soda taxes, others are labeling foods. While these efforts are commendable, a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach is essential for meaningful change.”

Thus, the report advocates for policies that enhance the availability and affordability of nutritious food, including grants and school meal programs. Furthermore, it highlights the critical role of nutritional education and poverty alleviation. “The same factors contributing to undernutrition parallel those causing overnutrition,” Richardson elaborates. “These issues stem from unsafe drinking water, lack of financial resources, and inadequate access to nutritious food.”

No nation has fully adopted all of UNICEF’s recommendations, leaving the question of their effectiveness in reducing obesity unanswered. “The underlying assumption is an increased consumption of unhealthy foods correlating with rising overweight and obesity rates,” remarks Ghosh. “This could partially explain the trends we’re seeing.”

However, other factors may also play a role, including stress, pollution, and even genetic factors.

“This truly needs to be seen as a major public health crisis,” concludes Richardson. “Our children are our future, and they deserve to be healthy. If they are not thriving, our future looks bleak.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Jaguar Sets Records by Swimming Over 1.3 Kilometers

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Jaguars are known to be strong swimmers

Matthias Graben/ImageBroker RF/Getty Images

The camera trap captured footage of a jaguar swimming at least 1.3 kilometers on the island of Ceradam Saddam in central Brazil.

Interestingly, it’s suggested that the jaguar may have swum nearly twice that distance. To reach the island, it needed a 1 km swim to a smaller island, followed by a 1.3 km swim, or a direct 2.3 km swim from the mainland without a break.

“We speculate this cat used a small island as a stepping point,” said Leandro Silveira from the Jaguar Conservation Fund in Brazil. “In fact, I managed to swim a straight 2.3-kilometer stretch.”

Jaguar was snapped with a camera trap

Leandro Silveira/Jaguar Conservation Fund in Brazil

According to Silveira, this is the longest confirmed swim by a large cat documented through direct evidence. Jaguars are indeed powerful swimmers, adept at hunting caimans underwater. However, there have been no previous reports of them swimming beyond 200 meters at one time, according to Silveira.

In 2020, Silveira’s team placed multiple camera traps around Ceradam Saddam. In May that year, an adult male jaguar was recorded on the mainland. Fast forward four years to August 2024, and the same jaguar (recognized by its unique coat pattern) was detected on the island’s camera.

This adds to prior sightings, including a collared cougar that swam 1.1 km on Skaxin Island off the coast of Washington, indicating that local cougars might swim up to 2 km to various islands. Last year, two male lions were also photographed swimming in waterways in Uganda, with estimated distances of 1-1.5 km. Their motivation appeared to be reaching a woman calling from the other side.

The reasons behind the jaguar’s long swim remain unclear. “The island is relatively small,” Silveira explains. “As far as we are aware, it does not have an abundance of prey that would make it particularly appealing.”

The jaguar might have the capability to swim even further. Malaca – The Dipioca Islands are located over 5 km from the Brazilian coast. Potential mating with mainland jaguars.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists May Need to Destroy the Brain to Upload It: Here’s Why

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Can scientists transfer animal brains to computers? The answer hinges on how we define “transfer” and “brain.” If we’re a bit flexible in our interpretation, it’s essentially already taking place.

Caenorhabditis elegans are minuscule worms found in soil and decaying plant matter. As multicellular eukaryotes, they technically qualify as animals.

This tiny worm never surpasses 1mm (0.03 inches) in length and is one of the most well-known organisms on Earth.

We have sequenced its genome and mapped all development, encompassing approximately 2,000 cells, including 300 neurons. The variations in this worm are minimal, but what differences do exist have been mapped.

Thus, scientists could model the entire brain on a computer, reproducing not just identical reflex behaviors as found in nature, but even training them to perform new tasks, such as balancing virtual poles (and yes, that’s true).

However, even if we liberally interpret our definitions, this scenario doesn’t entirely hold up.

The C. elegans brain was not uploaded in the conventional sense. Instead, it was replicated using data gathered from years of experiments involving thousands of these worms. There hasn’t been a method to accurately record and transfer the thoughts and memories of an individual creature to a computer.

Caenorhabditis elegans are tiny worms that thrive in soil and decaying vegetation – Image credit: Science Photo Library

Many believe brain uploads represent the future of humanity, viewing it as an “inevitable consequence” of advancements in neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI), potentially leading to the ultimate solution to death.

Nevertheless, several significant challenges must be addressed before this can become a reality.

As our conscious minds are intricately constructed from the cells and chemicals within our skulls and nervous systems, we must find a way to fully interpret our brain states in exquisite detail.

Next, we need to create a software model that can accurately mimic brain behavior at the molecular, or perhaps even atomic, level.

Over a decade ago, scientists demonstrated that it was feasible to identify neurons and their connectivity in meticulously prepared mouse brains. These brains were stained, sliced to 70 nanometers thick, and then reconstructed into a 3D format using a computer. As expected, the mouse did not survive.

Many believe that brain uploads are the future of humanity – Image credit: Aramie

This serves as an example of a destructive scan. The methods many suggest as necessary for recording a brain in sufficient detail may lead to its destruction.

As medical imaging technology achieves higher resolutions, some speculate that we could one day scan all cell states non-destructively. However, such scans must be instantaneous; otherwise, parts of your brain could be considering new things before the scan finishes.

Could this be achievable with a recently deceased brain? Scientists indicate that it might be essential to scan the brain while it’s actively functioning to ensure all cells accurately model the intended behavior.

Today’s computers are remarkable, yet even the most optimistic futurists predict we may need a century before we can simulate at the atomic scale required.

Moreover, there’s a final profound question. If you can upload your brain non-destructively in 500 years…what happens next? You would exist in a virtual world as computer software, while the original version of you continues to think in your biological form, likely with a slight headache from the scan.

But if you are still alive, did you genuinely trick death? Clearly not. Instead, you’ve allowed for the creation of virtual duplicates that could be used according to their will. That’s a disconcerting thought.

This article answers the question posed by Darcie Walsh from Preston: “Can scientists upload animal brains to a computer?”

We invite you to send us your questions to Question @sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (don’t forget to include your name and location).

Explore more of our ultimate Fun facts and other fascinating science pages.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Matt Richell Explores How Modern Life is Shaping Adolescence

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Social media can impact youth negatively.

Alice Tomlinson/Getty Images

How We Grow
Matt Richtel (Mariner Books)

The true narrative of How We Grow by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Matt Richtel raises significant concerns for parents observing their children approach adolescence.

Elanib was once a cheerful girl, but upon entering puberty, she underwent drastic changes seemingly without reason. Struggling to focus on her studies and battling depression, treatments proved ineffective. Despite her parents’ relentless support, her story ended tragically. “It wasn’t due to a lack of relationships or care,” her father recounts to Richtel. “I did everything I could to help her.”

In How We Grow, Richtel fuses interviews, scientific studies, historical context, and insights from prominent researchers to explore the roots of today’s potential mental health crisis among youth. This book highlights a sobering reality, painting a vivid picture of the profound changes that define this critical transition into adulthood.

Adolescence coincides with significant shifts in brain chemistry. As teens grapple with their identity, they often display rebellious, moody, and impulsive behaviours. Richtel also emphasizes that in many countries, adolescence is now beginning far earlier, with serious ramifications. For example, throughout the 19th century, American children typically entered adolescence four years later than they do today. Since 1900, the average age for American girls to start menstruating has dropped from 14 to 12, largely attributed to improvements in nutrition that accelerate bodily development.

The world has undoubtedly evolved. Our environments are now thoroughly mapped, technology ensures most people are physically safe and nourished. However, the spheres in which teenagers rebel have shifted towards their identities and ethics, increasingly occurring online, presenting more complex information and perspectives to navigate.

The noticeable decline in cases of bulimia and alcohol-related accidents among teenagers in the US may be attributed to this inward focus, yet the Covid-19 lockdown left many adolescents isolated at a time when personal interactions are crucial for developing emotional intelligence, disrupting their existing support networks.

This shift means the adolescent body matures faster while their brains remain underdeveloped, as Richtel notes. Generally, this does not lead to dire consequences, but the influence of the online environment is inconsistent.

While research on the effects of social media on mental health varies, How We Grow suggests it acts as a volume knob, amplifying pre-existing emotional states. Courtney, one interviewee who had her first period at age 10, encapsulates this notion perfectly.

Provocative yet reassuring, How We Grow offers insights into adolescence for both teens and parents, shedding light on the realities of growing up and how to navigate them more effectively. For me, navigating adolescent rebellion was less about striving for independence and more about reshaping the future for the next generation.

Chris Sims is an author based in Somerset, UK.

If you need someone to talk to, contact the Samaritans in the UK at 116123 (Samaritans.org); or the US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). You can also visit bit.ly/suicidehelplines for services in other countries.

New Scientist Book Club

Are you a book lover? Join a welcoming community of fellow readers. Every six weeks, we delve into exciting new titles, offering members exclusive access to book excerpts, articles by authors, and video interviews.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Jupiter: Smaller Than Anticipated and Facing Compression

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artistic representations of the Juno spacecraft above Jupiter’s Antarctic region

NASA/JPL-Caltech

Recent findings suggest Jupiter is not as large as previously believed, based on over four decades of radius measurements.

As a gas giant, Jupiter lacks a solid outer shell like Earth. Nevertheless, astronomers determine its shape by examining how the gas height varies around Earth at a consistent pressure level.

The most accurate measurements of this gas pressure level date back to NASA’s Voyager and Pioneer missions over 40 years ago. These spacecraft utilized radio waves to transmit signals through Jupiter’s atmosphere to Earth, allowing scientists to gather data and compute gas pressure at specific altitudes, employing a method known as radio occultation.

Currently, Eli Garanti from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel and his team have been measuring Jupiter’s radius since 2016, using radio occultation data obtained from NASA’s Juno spacecraft, which has been orbiting the gas giant since that year. They report that Jupiter’s average size is approximately 8 kilometers less than previously estimated, particularly at the poles.

“According to the Juno Radio occultation, Jupiter is smaller and more oblate, with a reduced size at the equator,” Garanti mentioned at the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) held in Helsinki, Finland on September 11.

Garanti and his team conducted 13 radio occultations with Juno, compared to the six combined by the Voyager and Pioneer missions, and calculated the diameter based on known wind speed measurements of Jupiter. For a pressure equivalent to one bar of gas (Earth’s sea-level atmospheric pressure), the planet’s diameter was measured to be 142,976 kilometers at the poles and 133,684 kilometers at the equator.

“Understanding the exact radius is essential, but it also aids in revealing the inner workings of the planet,” noted Oded Aharonson at the Weizmann Institute of Science, who did not participate in this study. “These new constraints will enable more accurate models of Jupiter’s interior, which are often complex and challenging to explore.”

topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why UK Readers Choose to Carry or Not Carry Wallets: Insights on Consumer Behavior

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent survey reveals that 50% of British adults still carry physical wallets, while many opt for mobile phones and smartwatches to transport their payment cards.

Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay have become the go-to payment methods for Generation Z and Millennials. In contrast, many individuals over 44 continue to depend on traditional debit and credit cards.

Four readers have shared their insights about wallets.

‘Not needed’

Alosh K Jose suggests that the shift to online and contactless payments post-Covid means there’s no necessity for a wallet anymore.
Photo: Alosh K Jose/Guardian Community

“It used to overwhelm me,” shares Alosh K. Jose from Newcastle upon Tyne. “Bringing it everywhere has become increasingly unnecessary.”

Josue states that the shift to online and contactless payments post-Covid means he doesn’t need a wallet. “All my bank cards are on my phone,” says the 31-year-old, who operates a business that provides local cricket sessions.

Despite being caught on a Spanish train during a widespread blackout that hit parts of Europe last April, Jose felt financially okay without too much cash.

“My fiancé and I traveled from Barcelona to Madrid, waiting five hours on the train before disembarking. [£8.70] Luckily, a few people shared cash with us, allowing us to catch the bus,” he recounts.

“If something similar were to happen in Newcastle, I’d be fine. There’s no language barrier even without physical cash.”

“I don’t want to risk my sensitive information being misused.”

Still favoring a physical wallet, Roger feels exposed when pulling his phone out.
Photo: Roger/Guardian Community

In Buckinghamshire, Roger, a retired IT professional, maintains both a wallet and a coin pouch. “Putting all my cards on my smartphone feels like risking everything at once,” he mentions.

At 69 years old, he prefers having physical cards on hand and feels vulnerable when taking out his phone. “Using it to pay at a store feels risky, and I worry about dropping it too often.”

“Having worked in security, I’m aware of the risks associated with personal information. I don’t want that window of potential misuse to be left open by using a digital wallet.”

Among his wallet’s contents, Roger holds cash, payment cards, reward cards, and even a snippet of a Times article from the 1980s.

Snippets from an article in the Times from the 1980s.
Photo: Roger/Guardian Community

“I prefer using physical cards – it’s about control.”

Georgina, part of Gen Z, finds it surprising how few people have wallets.
Photo: Georgina/Guardian Community

At 26, Georgina is astonished that many don’t have a wallet. “I always carry mine because I prefer to possess physical items instead of just digital equivalents,” she explains.

Her wallet includes a debit card, driver’s license, train cards, supermarket loyalty cards, and even £20 in emergency cash, along with an “overused business card from a taxi service.”

Georgina stands against the trend by not adopting digital wallets.
Photo: Guardian Community

As a member of Gen Z, Georgina, living in Leeds and developing online technology training courses, resists the trend of digital wallets.

“Call me old-fashioned, but I despise that idea,” she remarks. “Most of my friends use their phones to pay, and while I acknowledge it’s convenient—

“I cherish tangible things like cards and even nostalgic items like paper concert tickets. I prefer not to be overly reliant on my phone; it’s about having control. I used to worry about carrying my card, but now I find myself asking if I have cash.”

‘My wallet is essentially a generous phone case.’

Before receiving her first smartphone during the pandemic, Sarah Hayward carried a wallet “twice the size” of her current phone case.
Photo: Sarahayward/Guardian Community

Sarah Hayward, a 61-year-old artist from Worcester, mentions that her wallet has become “a generous phone case.”

Before getting her first smartphone during the pandemic, Hayward carried a wallet that was “double the size” of her current phone case. As an artist, she has often carried a digital camera. Now, her phone case has become a combination of all of her essentials.

While Sarah Hayward keeps a physical card, it remains hidden in her phone case.
Photo: Sarahayward/Guardian Community

“I carry bank cards, taxi cards from the airport, supermarket loyalty cards, season tickets from a local majestic home garden, annual travel insurance details, GHIC cards, my polaroid snapshots, and memories of my children with their partners from a recent Moroccan wedding, along with self-employment receipts and emergency cash.

“My phone also contains a video of my mother from four years ago before she passed away. It’s like a living wallet that has her presence in it.”

Hayward avoids digital payments as she finds physical cards much more “secure.” However, she acknowledges a downside to her preferred method: “There’s no space for lipstick and tissues.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Indulgent Habits Can Make You a Magnet for Mosquitoes

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mosquitoes may not bite indiscriminately

Hugh Sturrock/Alamy

Individuals who indulge in beer, practice poor hygiene, share beds, and skip sunscreen could be more attractive to mosquitoes, according to a study focused on festival attendees.

In their investigation of mosquito attraction, Sarah Lynn Blanken from Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands, along with her team, attended the 2023 Lowlands Festival near Amsterdam. They surveyed 465 festivalgoers on their health habits, dietary choices, hygiene practices, sunscreen usage, substance consumption, blood type, and whether they had slept alone the previous night.

The researchers established a makeshift lab inside a shipping container with mosquitoes that had previously survived 1,700 prisoners of war (Anopheles Stephensi), which are capable of transmitting malaria.

While the mosquitoes sought to land on the participants, they couldn’t actually bite; 20-35 of the insects were placed in transparent plastic containers with perforated dividers to separate the arms of the participants from the mosquitoes.

The team recorded the number of times mosquitoes attempted to land on the arms of the festivalgoers for three minutes, comparing this to cotton pad decoys soaked in glucose.

“Mosquitoes showed a clear preference for individuals consuming hops and grapes, indicating a preference for well-hydrated bodies,” the researchers noted. “Those who drank beer experienced significantly more landings compared to individuals who were sober for at least 12 hours.”

Blanken highlighted, however, that this doesn’t mean she’s extending her beer consumption. “I just rely on long sleeves and insect repellent,” she stated.

The study also indicated that “participants who had companions in their tents the previous night seemed to attract more mosquitoes.” Sunscreen appeared to deter mosquitoes, likely by masking the scent of the skin or acting as a repellent. No evidence was found to suggest that different blood types influenced mosquito attraction or repulsion.

“Our findings indicate that mosquitoes were drawn to individuals who skimped on sunscreen, indulged in beer, and shared beds,” the team concluded. “They have a clear hedonistic preference among us.”

Festival participants place their arms in a partition where mosquitoes can try to land on them, but not actually do it

Roland Festival/National Wetenschapsagenda Netherlands

Cameron Webb from the University of Sydney mentioned that although it was an entertaining study, it involved only one species of mosquito, meaning the findings may not apply to others.

The researchers discovered that only four participants did not attract mosquitoes. “The key takeaway is that nearly all participants were alluring to mosquitoes seeking a blood meal, regardless of other variables,” Webb noted. “The reality is, as long as we focus on mosquito repellents and ponder why mosquitoes bite, we will still get bitten and increase our chances of encountering mosquito-borne diseases.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How to Determine if Your Fatigue is Truly Caring Fatigue

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The concept of “compassion fatigue” was initially introduced in relation to nurses who provide care, demonstrate compassion, and occasionally witness traumatic events.

Compassion fatigue consists of two main aspects: emotional exhaustion and potential secondary trauma from observing the suffering of others.

Moreover, it isn’t limited to nurses; individuals in caring and related professions—those who must engage emotionally with others—are also vulnerable. Even outside professional settings, if you invest considerable emotional energy into supporting someone else and witness their pain, you may be at risk.

Research conducted on nurses has shown that compassion fatigue manifests in at least two primary forms.

First, it can present as a sort of emotional numbness (think of it as a defensive reaction to shield yourself from complete emotional exhaustion).

Secondly, it can lead to physical symptoms, which can include stomach issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

A 2022 study featuring interviews with nurses yielded particularly noteworthy insights. For instance, one nurse described compassion fatigue as “a distinct type of exhaustion—cloudy, profound, like being enveloped in clouds or experiencing the fatigue of a hangover.”

Another nurse remarked about the emotional paralysis saying: “It’s akin to being a foil-covered person, deflecting everything… what is shared never truly reaches me… it just bounces off.”

Unfortunately, studies indicate that compassion fatigue can lead to a kind of façade. While one might outwardly appear caring and empathetic, internally, they may not genuinely feel these emotions.

This disconnection can be distressing and further intensify feelings of fatigue.

It can lead to questioning your own values (for instance, if I aspire to be a compassionate individual, why do I feel less concern for this person?).

The notion of “compassion fatigue” emerged in the context of nurses who provide care, compassion, and empathy – Credit: Getty Images

On a positive note, there is emerging research, though of varying quality, aimed at addressing and overcoming compassion fatigue.

A primary approach is to practice self-compassion, which involves allocating time for self-care and stepping back from the responsibilities of caring for others. This could include activities like walking in nature, practicing mindfulness, exercising, reading, watching television, or socializing with friends.

While this may sound straightforward, it can be challenging when you’re feeling emotionally depleted. A useful technique is to visualize the self-care advice you would give to a valued friend and apply that same counsel to yourself.

This article responds to the inquiry (from Yvonne Tevlin via email) “How can I overcome compassion fatigue?”

If you have questions, please email us at Question @sciencefocus.com or send a message Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate Fun fact and discover more exciting science content.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Ethiopia’s Electric Vehicle Revolution: Leading the Charge in Global Development

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

When Architect Hen Degareg Bekele, in his early 30s, purchased a Volkswagen electric vehicle this year, he felt a degree of skepticism. His hometown, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, faced not only frequent blackouts but also doubts regarding the vehicle’s quality.

Four months later, Degareg is pleased with his choice. He no longer has to endure long waits at gas stations due to the chronic fuel shortages in Ethiopia.

“Even if I arrive early in the morning, I still have to wait two to three hours. Often, they run out of gas before my turn comes,” he explains. “Owning an EV saves time. I have no regrets.”

Architect Deghareg Bekele at an EV charging station in Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter

Until recently, electric vehicles were nearly unheard of in Ethiopia. However, last year, it became the first nation to prohibit the import of combustion engine vehicles. Today, EVs can be seen frequently in the capital, with China’s BYD being the most prevalent brand. Despite its recent rise to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer, Western brands remain popular.

According to the Ministry of Transport, out of the country’s total of 1.5 million vehicles, around 115,000 are electric. The goal is to boost this number to 500,000 by 2030.

Ethiopia leans towards a shift to EVs, despite challenges. Close to half of the 126 million population lacks access to electricity, and only 20% have access at least 23 hours a day, with only a third connected to the grid. Frequent power outages hinder many factories from running efficiently.

These shortages are attributed to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which was completed earlier this month after 14 years of construction. With a maximum capacity of 5,150 megawatts, it aims to double Ethiopia’s current power generation, which is predominantly hydroelectric.

However, challenges persist, including the substantial costs involved in expanding electricity access to rural areas.

“Renewable energy has significant potential,” emphasizes Transport Minister Valeo Hassen, noting that the ban on fossil fuel vehicles aligns with Ethiopia’s green policies aimed at reducing urban pollution during peak hours.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam located on the Blue Nile River in Guba, northwest Ethiopia. Photo: Anadolu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

The primary motivation, however, is economic. Ethiopia spends about $4.5 billion (£3.3 billion) annually on fuel imports, a considerable burden for a country struggling with foreign currency shortages and widespread poverty. “This is one of our main expenditures,” notes Bareo.

In contrast, the country’s hydroelectric production is notably cost-effective. This has allowed it to attract skeptical drivers in Addis Ababa, who have witnessed fuel prices more than double over the past three years.

Taxi driver Fire Tilahun reports his monthly fuel expenses were around 20,000 Ethiopian Birr (£105), while now, charging his EV costs less than 3,000 Birr.

Skip past newsletter promotions

“I won’t go back,” he declares while charging at a new station in Addis Ababa. “Occasionally, there are power outages, but we manage.”

To further support EV adoption, Ethiopia implemented tax exemptions. Despite being expensive, in a nation where doctors average £60 monthly, the BYD model is priced at around 2.2 million Birr (£11,000). Meanwhile, combustion engine vehicles have skyrocketed in price due to 200% import taxes prior to the ban, distorting the used car market.

Efforts to foster local manufacturing are underway, albeit at a small scale. One notable site is managed by the Belayneh Kinde Group, an industrial conglomerate situated on the western outskirts of Addis Ababa.

An electric vehicle being assembled at a factory on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter

“We should not rely solely on imports,” Valeo states. “Our aim is to develop local production capacity to enhance skills and employment opportunities for our citizens.”

Yet, the sudden shift to EVs has been uneven. Drivers express concerns over insufficient preparation time. Currently, Ethiopia boasts just over 100 charging stations out of a target of 2,300, most of which are located in Addis Ababa. This limits road trips to rural areas that often experience more frequent blackouts, making it impractical for EVs beyond the capital.

Rema Wakugali recharging his electric vehicle, expressing the need for more charging stations. Photo: Fred Harter

At another charging station in Addis Ababa, Coffee Export Manager remarks that he is “genuinely satisfied” with his BYD, but wishes he could drive to Hawassa, a favored lakeside destination.

“They must construct more charging stations – it’s essential,” he insists. “There are too few in Addis. There are no electric vehicles operating outside the city. This car can travel 420km; what happens after that?”

Moreover, there are currently no plans to introduce electric versions of heavy trucks, which are vital for transporting most of Ethiopia’s imports from nearby Djibouti ports. As the fleet ages, the economic impact may be felt significantly.

The CEO of a prominent ride-hailing company in Addis Ababa reports that most of his drivers harbor doubts about the longevity of EV batteries and their resale value. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that after his personal experience with an EV, the infrastructure will evolve to meet the growing demand.

“Initially, we believed this policy would fail due to inadequacies in power infrastructure, frequent blackouts, and a scarcity of charging stations,” he reflects.

“But now, I am cautiously optimistic.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

This Mysterious Skull Has Baffled Scientists for 60 Years—Until Now

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A peculiar fossil skull discovered in a Greek cave over six decades ago may finally reveal some of its mysteries. Recent analysis indicates that at least 300,000 years ago, the early Homo sapiens coexisted with the first Neanderthals in Africa and Europe.

Unearthed in northern Greece in 1960, the Petrarona skull has long puzzled paleontologists, who are challenged to place it within the human lineage.

The fossil includes traits from Neanderthals and Homo erectus, yet it was found completely isolated, lacking artifacts or animal bones that could provide context for dating.

“The moment I examined and measured it, I realized it wasn’t a Neanderthal or Homo erectus,” stated Professor Chris Stringer, a paleontologist and co-researcher at the Museum of Natural History in London, in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “It was something unique.”

Stringer has long believed that the specimen belonged to our relative, Homo heidelbergensis, a robust human species that existed hundreds of thousands of years ago across Africa, Europe, and possibly Asia.

However, without a reliable date for the skull, understanding its place in the human narrative remained difficult.

A recent study utilized uranium series dating on the fossil’s calcite coating.

Calcite, one of the most common mineral forms of calcium carbonate, forms as water seeps into the pores and cavities, resulting in new mineral structures. This uranium series dating method estimates fossil ages by analyzing the calcite and measuring the decay level of uranium within it.

The findings suggest an age of approximately 286,000 years. Nevertheless, the methodology raises questions about the skull’s actual age.

“If fossil calcite forms swiftly after deposition in the cave, an age of around 288,000 to 290,000 years is plausible for the fossil,” Stringer noted.

“However, if the fossil was in the cave before the calcite developed, that age is a minimum estimate.”

The Petrarona skull, partially coated with calcite, is now estimated to be nearly 300,000 years old – Credit: Chris Stringer

Despite this caution, the timeline for Petrarona now closely aligns with another well-known Homo heidelbergensis skull from Kabwe, Zambia, which dates back about 300,000 years.

“Morphologically, they are similar and seem to be converging in their dating,” Stringer remarked.

This discovery underscores the idea that Homo heidelbergensis had a broad geographic presence and an extensive time span, overlapping rather than directly giving rise to other human species.

In simpler terms, contrary to earlier beliefs, they are not the common ancestors of modern humans and Neanderthals; Homo heidelbergensis was likely our contemporary for at least some time.

Stringer emphasized that this enriches our understanding of human evolution.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Find the Atlas Blue Butterfly Has 229 Chromosome Pairs

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the Spanish Institute of Biology have mapped the female genome of the Atlas Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica), revealing 227 pairs of autosomes and four sex chromosomes, marking it as the organism with the highest chromosome count among all multicellular animals globally.

Atlas Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica). Image credit: Roger Villa.

The Atlas Blue Butterfly is native to the mountainous regions of Morocco and Northeast Algeria.

Previously suspected to have the highest chromosome count in the Animal Kingdom, this is the first instance where scientists have successfully sequenced the butterfly’s genome to confirm this assumption.

In comparison, the more commonly observed Common Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) has only 24 chromosomes.

Variations in chromosome numbers are believed to facilitate the formation of new species and assist in adaptation to changing environments.

The Atlas Blue Butterfly belongs to a group of closely related species that have evolved rapidly over a short geological timeframe.

“The genome is crucial for understanding how organisms develop and what the future may hold,” stated Professor Mark Blaxter from the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

“To narrate the stories of our planet, we must explore various tales and observe their interactions.”

“Insights gained from one genome can also enrich our understanding of others.”

“For instance, chromosomal rearrangements are also present in human cancer cells, and investigating these patterns in the Atlas Blue Butterfly could lead to methods for mitigating cancer cell growth in the future.”

In their research, Professor Blaxter and his team discovered that chromosomal structure was altered due to less tightly packed DNA.

This indicates that while the amount of genetic information remained similar, it was organized into smaller segments.

Except for the sex chromosomes, all chromosomes were found to be fragmented, leading researchers to estimate a dynamic range of 24 to 229 chromosomes emerging over approximately 3 million years, a brief period in evolutionary terms.

Generally, such drastic chromosomal modifications are considered detrimental; however, the Atlas Blue Butterfly has thrived for millions of years.

Its population faces threats primarily from climate change and human environmental impact.

This study opens numerous avenues for future exploration.

Chromosomal division is thought to enhance genetic diversity by allowing for increased genomic mixing or possibly offering other unforeseen advantages.

While this may enable butterflies to adapt quickly, possessing numerous chromosomes can also introduce complications, potentially making them more susceptible to extinction in the long run.

Further studies comparing other butterfly species will clarify whether genes are lost or retained, offering greater insights into butterfly biology and evolution.

“Observing chromosomal degradation at this level is uncommon, yet evident in butterflies of other species, hinting at a significant need for exploration in this area,” noted Dr. Roger Villa, a researcher at the Evolutionary Biology Institute in Spain.

“Moreover, chromosomes hold the secrets of species, and examining how these changes influence butterfly behavior could help us form a comprehensive understanding of species emergence.”

“When we embarked on studying butterfly evolution, we realized that sequencing the extraordinary Atlas Blue Butterfly was essential,” remarked Dr. Charlotte Wright from the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

“This research emphasizes the collaborative spirit of scientific inquiry.”

“By examining how the chromosomes of the Atlas Blue Butterfly have split over time in specific environments, we can begin to uncover the potential benefits of this phenomenon, how it influences adaptability, and whether there are lessons in the DNA that could aid our future conservation efforts.”

The findings have been published in this week’s edition of Current Biology.

____

Charlotte J. Wright et al. Chromosomal evolutionary constraints revealed by the 229 chromosome pairs of the Atlas Blue Butterfly. Current Biology, published online on September 10th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.032

Source: www.sci.news

Paleontologists Discover New Triassic Dinosaur Species

Posted on September 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The sizable jaws of the predatory alxaurus species from the latest Triassic period in South Wales, Zanclodon cambrensis, have long captivated researchers. Could it be the oldest large theropod dinosaur? In a recent study, paleontologists from the University of Bristol and Cardiff’s National Museum examined the specimens using advanced 3D digital reconstruction techniques. They first confirmed that the specimens dated to the late Triassic period, likely sourced from the sandstones of the Kotam members of the Lilstock Formation. Anatomically, these specimens exhibit characteristics typical of theropod dinosaurs, potentially representing early, novel therapy-footed species such as Newtonsaurus cambrensis.

Two separate blocks containing the impression of the jaw Newtonsaurus cambrensis. Image credit: Evans et al., doi: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2025.101142.

“This specimen has been mentioned in various scientific papers, yet its identity remains elusive. We were uncertain if it was even a dinosaur,” states Dr. Owain Evans, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol.

“Originally named Zanclodon cambrensis by Edwin Tully Newton in 1899, we learned that the name Zanclodon had been abandoned as it referred to a broad range of early reptiles.”

“Therefore, we honor Newton by naming it Newtonsaurus. It stands apart from all other dinosaurs of that time and warrants a unique designation.”

Newtonsaurus cambrensis roamed the Earth approximately 202 million years ago during the late Triassic.

The fossil was uncovered in a tempestuous area near Bridgend, Wales, UK.

The specimen represents the natural form of the left jaw, revealing both its interior (housed at the National Museum of Wales) and the outer surface (held at the British Geological Survey).

“The natural form of the inner and outer jawbone displays astonishing serrated details along the grooves, ridges, teeth, and even the edges of the teeth,” commented Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.

“We opted to create a 3D model utilizing digital photography.”

“Our process began with surface scans of the fossils through photogrammetry.”

“Once I obtained a digital scan, I reversed it which provided a digital negativity.”

“It was simply a matter of merging both sides and analyzing the anatomy from there.”

“Digital reconstructions derived from specimens give us a considerably clearer understanding of the original structure of the bone.”

Now that the fossils have been examined, the team could utilize their anatomy to ascertain their positions in the reptile family tree, determining importantly whether they are dinosaurs.

“We can assert that this specimen is highly likely a member of the large predatory theropod dinosaurs that inhabited the South Wales coast during the late Triassic,” Dr. Evans remarked.

“The arrangement of the teeth exhibits a distinct, extraordinary dinosaur feature, identifying it as a carnivorous predator.”

“If it’s not a true dinosaur, it closely ties to the origins of the two major divisions of Coelophysis, namely Coelophysodia and Averostra.”

“The most surprising aspect is the size of the creature. The preserved jawbone measures 28 cm in length and constitutes just the front half; originally, it likely corresponded to dinosaurs measuring 60 cm in length, with a total body length of 5-7 m.”

“This size is exceptionally large for Triassic theropods, which predominantly were under half that size.”

“Such historical specimens are invaluable in paleontology, frequently yielding new and enlightening insights, even after years of dormancy in collections,” stated Dr. Cindy Howells, a paleontologist at the National Museum in Cardiff.

“Wales holds a treasure trove of fossil records, with a dense concentration of fossils across the UK.”

“Furthermore, Newtonsaurus cambrensis reiterates the significance of Wales in paleontological exploration.”

“These Triassic strata are scarce worldwide, but several can be found in Wales.”

“It’s quite plausible that another dinosaur may be discovered here.”

Survey results were published online today in Proceedings of the Geologists Association.

____

Owain Evans et al. A reevaluation of a large orxaurial dentistry from the Late Triassic in South Wales, England. Proceedings of the Geologists Association published online on September 11th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2025.101142

Source: www.sci.news

New Study Reveals Strategies to Alleviate the “Green Backlash”

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“There are two fundamental causes of dissatisfaction with climate policy: economy and culture.”

Alex Ramsay/Alamy

I have previously discussed protests in my UK hometown. The local council proposed increasing parking fees to reduce driving in contaminated areas. Ultimately, the council faced opposition and raised fees far less than they initially planned.

This scenario illustrates “green backlash,” a term referring to the rising opposition against environmental policies in affluent nations. Such resistance is often tied to a surge in support for right-wing populist parties, like Reform UK. The effectiveness of this can be seen in how Reform leads recent polls among UK voters as the next general election approaches.

This trend poses a challenge for the environment. Without government action, achieving significant progress on climate change becomes unlikely, but such initiatives can inadvertently empower anti-environment parties. Research indicates that the presence of right-wing populists in Europe slows down policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing renewable energy.

Recent studies published in Nature Climate Change suggest that there are strategies to counteract green backlash. Led by Valentina Bosetti at Bocconi University in Milan, researchers analyzed existing literature on green backlash to better understand its causes and potential remedies.

The findings reveal two primary sources of concern regarding climate policies: economic and cultural. Economic concerns arise from the financial burden of policies, such as increased parking fees in urban centers. Cultural concerns include a widespread mistrust of politicians and scientific authorities. Together, these factors significantly undermine support for parties promoting environmental policies, often driving voters toward opposing right-wing parties.

A notable case study that embodies both concerns occurred in Ontario, Canada. In 2009, the provincial government curtailed community input and halted the development of new wind power projects following protests from over 50 activist groups. Despite wind power’s popularity in Ontario, this localized backlash seemed to influence elections. In October 2011, the ruling Ontario Liberals lost their majority, particularly in districts with existing or proposed wind farms. Similar resistance to wind power has also occurred in Sweden and Germany.

“
Researchers discovered that opposition to wind power diminishes when subsidies are offered.
“

The shift towards encouraging electric vehicles has also faced backlash from those affected, particularly within the traditional automotive sector. In the 2016 US elections, Donald Trump garnered an average of 3 percentage points in counties with auto parts manufacturers. Researcher interviews with workers revealed that fears surrounding the EV transition influenced their support for Trump.

This paints a rather somber picture: governments attempting to implement positive environmental changes encounter resistance, which could lead to policy rollbacks or electoral losses. Often, they are supplanted by parties that neither pursue such policies nor recognize their urgency.

However, it’s important to note that while cultural factors may alienate some towards right-wing populism, they do not create a majority. Economic grievances, however, are addressable. For instance, Bosetti found that opposition to wind power significantly decreases when government subsidies are available and when local job creation hinges on such projects. Safeguarding jobs and upskilling workers may mitigate fears of unemployment and skill obsolescence, she suggests. It could be that straightforward.

Furthermore, there is considerable yet often underestimated support for policies that promote environmentally friendly practices. US researchers recently surveyed adults about their views on issues like reducing food waste, consuming less beef, installing home solar systems, adopting EVs, purchasing carbon offsets, and other climate-friendly behaviors. Most people expressed support for them. However, a significant gap exists between participants’ perceptions of overall support for these initiatives and the reality. Politicians often convey a distorted message; don’t let the appeal of green policies falter simply because of misinterpretations.

In York, the upcoming local election in 2027 is anticipated to focus on parking fees as a critical issue, with concerns about green backlash influencing voter decisions.

Graham’s Week

What I’m reading

Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.

What I’m watching

Revisiting the BBC adaptation of Dracula on Netflix in preparation for my upcoming trip to Transylvania.

What I’m working on

An article for the Christmas issue. Honesty is key.

Graham Lawton is a staff writer at New Scientist and author of Don’t Complain: The Incredible Science of Everyday Illnesses. Follow him on Twitter @grahamlawton.

Topics:

Environment /
Climate Change

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Simple Tasks Like Charging Rely on Mobile Phone Measurements

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mobile phone chargers require precise quantum measurements

ShutterStock/Zoomik

If you’re anything like me, your smartphone is almost always connected to a charger. What we often overlook is that the capacity to safely conduct intricate quantum measurements in cutting-edge physics hinges on safety standards.

To grasp this, consider what occurs when you connect the charger to a standard socket. The electricity flowing from the outlet exceeds 100 volts, yet the charger is engineered to reduce it to around a dozen volts as it reaches the phone. Without this voltage reduction, the device would be damaged.

Essentially, the precise voltage matters in a specific way. But how can one truly know the value of a single volt? Moreover, when reporting voltages, can we fully trust the manufacturers of phone chargers?

This may appear to be merely a scientific query; however, in the U.S., the volt has a legal definition established in 1904, governed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Various countries maintain their own national measurement units for the same purpose, such as the UK’s National Physics Institute.

For volts, NIST’s definition has relied on quantum devices for over three decades. In this process, the metrologist begins with a series of superconducting junctions—like crosswalks in narrow superconducting regions separated by insulation—and exposes them to microwaves of extremely specific frequencies. This stimulates a purely quantum phenomenon that creates voltage differences across junctions. The number of volts contributing to this difference is directly linked to two of the universe’s fundamental constants. This allows scientists to define a volt based on what we understand as foundational to our physical reality.

Specifically, the two constants involved are Planck’s constants that connect the charge of an electron—a fundamental quantum particle—to the energy of a photon (a quantum particle of light) and its frequency. Remarkably, the connection between charging a mobile phone and the most basic elements of the quantum realm is quite brief.

However, volts are not solely entrenched in the quantum realm. In fact, in 2018, metrologists globally unanimously voted to redefine several entries in the International System of Units (SI Units) with close ties to microscopic details.

Some unit changes were quite radical. For instance, kilograms are now defined in terms of a combination of Planck’s constant, the speed of light, and the frequency at which electrons in a specific type of atomic clock “click,” derived from platinum alloy polished only by the hide of endangered European goats. If you’ve recently stood on a scale at your doctor’s office, you’re witnessing how quantum physics influences the numbers displayed there.

The shift towards quantum-based definitions of units underscores the remarkable scientific advancements achieved in the past decades concerning our understanding, control, and exploration of the microscopic world. For example, I spoke in January with Alexander Epri at the University of Colorado Boulder, a key player in developing some of the most accurate clocks globally. “Frequency measurements have reached unprecedented levels of precision,” he noted. The frequencies from these clocks are linked to the electron transitions between energy levels within atoms, governed by quantum physics.

This extraordinary control over quantum systems places humans at the “top tier” of quantum measurements, yielding benefits beyond merely defining time. For example, atomic-based clocks may play vital roles in next-generation early warning systems for earthquakes and volcanic activities.

Moreover, the move towards quantum methodology could democratize access to the world’s premier metrics. Before the 2018 SI unit redefinition, manufacturers, researchers, and technicians needing to validate the accuracy of their devices often had to seek certification at local Metrology Institutes, where certified experts operated. The current standard for certification essentially requires sophisticated labs. “As we’ve mentioned previously, the aim is to put ourselves out of business,” Richard Davis from the International Bureau of Weights and Measures stated, which oversees SI systems. “The entire system has become more adaptable and significantly less Euro-centric.”

“We possess ample equipment, so individuals come to us. However, this redefinition is one of our focal points since people aren’t sending their instruments to us; we’re teaching them how to measure independently,” Jason Underwood explained to me in August. “Currently, this framework operates under the new SI. Our aim is to develop instruments that can establish traceability to the basic constants of the universe.”

He and his team recently introduced a prototype of a quantum device capable of measuring three distinct electrical units simultaneously, including volts. By offering this three-in-one functionality, such devices could make it much simpler and more cost-effective to compare electronic devices against relevant standards, assuming they remain portable.

As we have evolved our understanding of units, what might the future hold? For electrical units like those designed by Underwood and his team, the Quantum Standard has yet to achieve international acceptance akin to the second or kilogram, with further experiments necessary to reach that milestone. Similar innovations are emerging in other parts of the world, including the EU-based Quahmet Consortium.

The concept of the second, too, is fluid, reflecting researchers’ ongoing endeavors to refine atomic-based clocks and redefine our understanding of time measurement. In April, I reported on some cutting-edge timepieces created by an international team on a mission to compare models from Japan, Germany, and other nations. This research is ongoing, and I look forward to sharing more about quantum clocks in the future.

Despite metrologists’ pursuit of stability in definitions, measurement work is inherently variable, tied closely to national funding strategies and international relations. This was evident in 1875, as representatives of the first international measurement treaty confronted political tensions between France and Germany following the Franco-Prussian War. This remains relevant today—as I reported on NIST’s work in August, discussions included the institutional infrastructure’s challenges, highlighted by a proposed 43% budget cut by the Trump administration earlier this year. Though Congress ultimately dismissed this proposal, it underscores the complexities of disentangling Metrology Institute operations from national politics.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Mysterious Clouds on Mars Appear Annually—Here’s the Explanation.

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Unusual clouds form on the Arcia Mon, a volcano on Mars every year.

ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/J. Cowart CC by-sa 3.0 Igo

Arciamon's clouds — Unusual clouds form on the Arcia Mon, a volcano on Mars every year.

ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/J. Cowart CC by-sa 3.0 Igo

The delicate clouds that appear on Mars annually have intrigued astronomers since their initial discovery, likely stemming from a water-rich atmosphere that seems implausible.

Each winter, clouds spanning 1,800 kilometers form near the Arsia Mons, located in the southern hemisphere of Mars, emerging and dissipating daily for nearly three months. The atmospheric conditions on Mars vastly differ from Earth’s, notably with an abundance of fine dust particles that can cause water vapor in the atmosphere to condense into cloud particles. This results in cloud patterns unique to Mars, yet simulations accounting for these high dust levels do not replicate the distinct features of the Arsia Mons Cloud.

Now, Jorge Hernandez Bernal from the University of Sorbonne in France and his team propose that an exceptionally high amount of water vapor in the atmosphere could recreate these cloud characteristics. Elevated levels of water vapor aid in cloud particle formation through alternative dust-free processes known as homogeneous nucleation.

When researchers conducted atmospheric simulations around Arsia Mons that featured increased water content, the resulting cloud formations bore a striking resemblance to the actual clouds.

“Uniform nucleation necessitates much greater water levels on Mars. [Water] saturation is required. Initially, I believed this to be improbable or extremely unlikely on Mars,” said Hernandez Bernal at the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) on September 10th, held in Helsinki, Finland. “However, over the last decade, we’ve discovered that Mars can indeed exhibit supersaturation.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Early Neanderthals Pursued Ibex on Steep Mountain Terrain

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ibex can navigate gracefully across steep mountain terrains

Serge Goujon/Shutterstock

Nearly 300,000 years ago, Neanderthals had already devised strategies for hunting goats on vertical cliffs and managing them in well-structured camps.

Typically recognized for ambushing large animals in flat meadows and forests of Western Europe, Neanderthals seemed to adapt to the hilly landscapes of Eastern Europe by incorporating the lightweight ibex into their hunting practices. Early humans skinned these animals in nearby caves, but only after the bones had been covered and fractured. Stephen Milosevic from the University of Belgrade in Serbia.

“The approach to hunting ibex is entirely distinct since they inhabit robust, steep, and barren terrains,” he explains. “Now we observe primitive Neanderthals who barely distinguish themselves as a separate species, already utilizing an ecological niche previously unexploited by humans.”

Neanderthals evolved approximately 400,000 years ago, yet most of our knowledge stems from sites in Western Europe that are under 150,000 years old. According to Marie Helen Monsel, who was not involved in this research at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, it’s crucial to uncover clues that can bridge the gaps in our understanding of Neanderthal timelines, habitats, and cultures.

In 2017, archaeologists uncovered evidence that Neanderthals inhabited the layers of Belikabaranica Cave in Serbia, which date back roughly 290,000 years, making it the oldest remains of Neanderthals found in Eastern Europe.

Since that discovery, Milosevic and his colleagues have excavated hundreds of stone tools and analyzed the bone fragments of approximately 30,000 animals within the cave. Almost three-quarters of these fragments are less than two centimeters long, with the majority traceable to ibex and red deer hunted in spring and summer, indicating that Neanderthals likely resided in the cave seasonally.

Some bones, particularly those from the legs of larger deer, exhibited burn marks and were cracked open. This suggests that these early Neanderthals may have liquefied the bones, leaving remnants scattered on the walls surrounded by the grease that fueled their fires. Others may have shown signs of tendon harvesting for use in ropes or nets.

The deer remains indicate the presence of older youths and adults, pointing to selective hunting practices that would promote herd survival, according to Milosevic. However, ibex were hunted at all life stages. Neanderthals seemed to be “novices” when it came to hunting goats, implying they likely relied on sharp sticks and rudimentary traps. “They must have experienced a significant number of failed attempts,” he notes.

Apart from these favored food sources, researchers have also found several remains from wild boars, cave bears, wolves, foxes, leopards, and even various birds.

The arrangement of the bones in various sections of the cave indicates a clear division of tasks. For instance, the hearth was located centrally, with discarded bones stacked behind it, while the entrance appeared to function as a tool workshop.

In summary, the findings suggest “notable cognitive flexibility,” states Jose Carrion from the University of Murcia in Spain. “This confirms that Neanderthals are creative problem-solvers who effectively navigate complex habitats with ingenuity and skill. Neanderthals were indeed human. They were intellectual, social, and highly adaptable.”

“The discoveries from Baranica provide a glimpse of Neanderthals who not only display resilience but are experimenting with strategies and social structures typically associated with later periods,” commented Antonio Rodriguez Hidalgo from the Archaeological Institute in Merida, Spain. “This reminds us that Neanderthal sophistication is not a gradual developement but rather a deep-rooted flame that ignited early in human history.”

Neanderthals, ancient humans, cave art: France

Join new scientist Kate Douglas on an enchanting journey through time as she explores significant Neanderthal and Upper Paleolithic sites across southern France, from Bordeaux to Montpellier.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Lawmakers Call for Criminal Investigation of TikTok in France

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

French legislators are urging state prosecutors to look into whether Tiktok is jeopardizing the safety of its younger users.

Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte leads a six-month investigation by the French Parliament into the psychological effects of Tiktok on minors, citing testimonies from families, social media leaders, and influencers.

He stated in an interview with French Fos: “The evidence is clear. Tiktok intentionally endangers the health and safety of its users, which is why we have brought this matter to the attention of Paris prosecutors.”

He added, “This may also represent perjury, especially when Tiktok executives claimed they were unaware of the situation.”

It will be up to the prosecutor to determine if an investigation should be initiated into the widely used short video platform.

The French Parliamentary Committee was created following the 2024 French lawsuit to assess Tiktok and its psychological effects.

The Final Report from the Parliamentary Committee, released on Thursday, described Tiktok as akin to “slow poison” for children. Laure Miller, a centrist MP co-leading the investigation, remarked that Tiktok is a “sea of harmful content” that algorithmically targets vulnerable children.

The report suggests that social media use should be entirely prohibited for those under 15 in France, and that a “digital curfew” should be imposed for users aged 15 to 18.

Additionally, it calls for a large public relations initiative aimed at “irresponsible parents” who fail to supervise their children’s social media activities, along with the creation of a new offense for “digital negligence.”

Delaporte emphasized that these recommendations aim to stimulate societal discussions. He stated, “The primary focus is on European regulations and how to compel platforms to modify their algorithms.”

A spokesperson for Tiktok responded, “We strongly refute the misleading claims from the platform committee that aims to blame us for broader industry challenges. Tiktok has over 70 features and settings tailored to support teenagers and their families.”

An executive from Tiktok, a subsidiary of the Chinese company Bytedance, informed the French parliamentary committee that the app employs AI-powered moderation, which last year successfully identified 98% of content violating its terms of service in France.

Emmanuel Macron’s administration has expressed interest in a ban on social media for children and young people, following Australia’s development of landmark legislation prohibiting access for individuals under 16.

Geraldine, whose 18-year-old daughter tragically took her own life, told Agence France-Presse that she discovered a self-harm video her daughter had posted on Tiktok after her passing.

“Tiktok didn’t cause our daughter’s death, but we hold Tiktok accountable for its inadequate online moderation, which plunged her deeper into her darker impulses.”

Agence France-Presse and Reuters contributed to this report

Source: www.theguardian.com

No Need to Panic: Giant Radioactive Bees Are Not Present!

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback brings you the latest science and technology news, featuring intriguing articles that pique the interest of our readers. If you have something you believe deserves attention, you can reach us at Feedback@newscientist.com.

Super Hornet

One of my preferred categories in news stories is “events that echo the first five or ten minutes of a disaster flick.” Titles like “Tremors near Major City” and “Scientists Develop an Aging Robot with Machine Guns for Arms” come to mind. For example, a giant mysterious black sarcophagus discovered in Egypt (yes, this one is real).

So, when we glimpsed a headline from the BBC news on July 31st, we were understandably concerned: “Radioactive hornet nest discovered at an old U.S. nuclear weapons site.”

The nest was identified on the Savannah River grounds close to Aiken, South Carolina, a location previously known for producing nuclear bomb components during the Cold War and currently housing millions of gallons of liquid nuclear waste. Investigators, however, calmed down concerns by stating none of the tanks were leaking. Rather, the nest was discovered to be harboring “onsite legacy radioactive contamination,” which refers to leftover contamination from past plutonium production.

Notably, the nest was sprayed to eliminate any wasps, subsequently bagged as radioactive waste. Thankfully, no bees were found, leading to speculations that they might have perished from radiation exposure and mutated into some chaotic form. However, I’ve watched enough Godzilla films to know that radiation typically causes creatures to grow rather than disappear. Let’s hope 2025 doesn’t bring a giant radioactive hornet invasion along the East Coast.

As a precaution, we dug out our aging copies of New Scientist‘s book Do You Eat Wasps? to learn that various creatures, including badgers and birds (of course), prey on striped insects, along with other insects like dragonflies. We consider sending badger families to the Savannah River site due to the substantial radiation; it seems like the only effective solution.

What to do if Your Dog Takes Cocaine

Reporter Matthew Sparks was combing through a press release when he stumbled upon a intriguingly phrased title. “What to do if your dog takes cocaine?” Instantly, the first suggestion from Feedback was to “take it for a walk,” but that’s neither a solution nor appropriate.

This press release referred to a Clinical Report relating to a case of a Chihuahua who experienced “acute onset of lethargy and a temporary episode of unresponsiveness.” It was revealed that the dog’s urine contained “cocaine, cocaine metabolites, norfentanyl, and trace amounts of fentanyl.” This mixture appeared to slow the dog’s heartbeat, an issue that was effectively managed by the attending veterinarian.

While the dog is fine now, it’s challenging to envision how bewildered the Chihuahuas must have been.

Upon further exploration, I found that dogs have a “history of culinary indifference.” This makes sense. I recall a rather dim spaniel we had that ate everything she discovered on the ground, despite its unsanitary nature and the chaotic aftermath on her digestive system. Living where we did, this predominantly consisted of discarded takeaway boxes and heaps of fox excrement. Still, one wonders what she might have sampled if we’d taken her for a stroll around Soho, London.

Curtailing Academic Jargon

Feedback often finds themselves perusing the references list at the end of academic papers, seeking crucial context. Many of these appear as structures like “Thomas, Richard & Harold, “The Very Complex Things”, Nature Vol. 13 P 666 (1984).”

In an effort to save space, academic journal titles are frequently abbreviated, and these can often be perplexing. For example, we were recently bemused to discover a journal abbreviated simply as Fish fish. Was the editor particularly enthusiastic about vertebrates that inhabit freshwater? Turns out the complete title is actually Fish and Fisheries.

Our curiosity sparked, leading us to wonder if this was indeed the most absurd abbreviation of a journal title.

There are evident trends. For instance, “analysis” tends to be abbreviated to “anal,” which can lead to unfortunate titles such as Advances in Risk Analysis becoming ADV risk anal and Accident Analysis and Prevention being shortened to Before the Accident Analysis. Similarly, many journal titles include library-related terminology, helping to explain why Zeitschrift Für Bibliothekswesen und Bibliographie is humorously abbreviated as Z bibl bibl.

Several abbreviated titles may risk creating confusion. The American Chemical Society has launched a whole series titled Advances in Arsenic Research, but it certainly didn’t yield what we anticipated.

The sheer number of journals paired with feedback’s limited lifespan means it’s nearly impossible to locate the most ridiculous abbreviation. Therefore, we’d like to invite a broader audience to help in our quest for the funniest journal title abbreviations.

Have you shared your feedback?

You can send your stories to feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your address. Explore past feedback on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Your Nose Can Reveal Insights into Your Mental State

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

It’s no surprise that stress is a key factor in various health issues, including mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as physical ailments such as heart disease. There’s an urgent need for a straightforward, objective, and non-invasive method to study and assess stress. Interestingly, the temperature of an individual’s nose might provide valuable insights.

Our stress levels are shaped by our mental perceptions of situations and our physical responses to them. Factors such as genetics, social influences, and cultural backgrounds contribute to our unique stress responses.

Traditionally, stress has been measured in two ways. First, surveys are commonly used, typically administered after stress has occurred, which can disconnect participants from their immediate experiences. These surveys are also subjective; not everyone accurately identifies or articulates their feelings.

The second approach involves monitoring physical indicators like blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory patterns. While these measures can appear more objective, they require specialized equipment in clinical settings, which can disrupt daily life. Ironically, the process of testing can itself induce stress, leading to an increase in the very markers being measured.

Exciting advancements in science suggest that thermal imaging, originally designed for identifying heat loss in structures, is now proving invaluable in tracking medical conditions related to temperature variations, such as infections, inflammation, and tumors. Researchers are now utilizing thermal cameras to assess stress levels based on facial temperature changes. Their research explores how temperature variations in the face can indicate stress.

When we experience stress, blood flow is redirected within our bodies. The nervous system prioritizes blood flow to vital sensory organs, such as the eyes and ears, while reducing blood circulation to the nose. This reduction in blood flow is detected as a decrease in temperature by thermal cameras. This phenomenon, known as “nose dip,” isn’t exclusive to humans; it has also been observed in both adults and children, as well as in nonhuman primates, suggesting an evolutionary connection to stress responses.

While undergoing stress, our nervous systems can redirect blood flow to heighten sensory awareness, resulting in a cooler nose. Since the nose remains relatively still, these temperature changes can serve as a clear indicator of stress.

The integration of thermal imaging with existing stress measurement techniques could revolutionize stress research. This method offers continuous monitoring in a non-intrusive manner, eliminating the need for lab environments or stressful questionnaires.

In the future, we may be able to utilize nose temperature as a form of biofeedback to help manage stress levels. This approach could support individuals—especially those who struggle to communicate their stress—by allowing for the monitoring of stress levels in high-pressure environments such as emergency rooms, trading floors, or even zoos.

Studies indicate that recognizing stress responses can enhance stress management. Making stress visible allows individuals to better understand its impacts on their mental and physical well-being before, during, and after stressful situations. The future of stress research promises to be groundbreaking.

Gillian Forrester is a professor of comparative cognition at the University of Sussex, UK. Tune in to hear her speak at New Scientist Live on October 18th.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Tim Spector’s Comprehensive and Compelling Fermentation Guide

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fermented foods like kimchi can support your body and brain

Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images

fermentation
Tim Spector (Jonathan Cape (UK); US publication date TBC)

Humans are drawn to fermentation for two primary reasons: preservation and pleasure. Before the advent of refrigeration, fermentation allowed beverages like meads to be stored for months when untreated water could pose dangers. Additionally, milk that would spoil within a day could be transformed into yogurt or cheese, lasting for weeks. This evolution led us to develop a taste for these tangy flavors. The microorganisms responsible for creating these delights not only produced unique drinks but also offered numerous health advantages.

Today, foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are mostly solid. However, Dr. Tim Spector asserts in his upcoming book Fermentation: The Power of Microorganisms to Change Your Life that this trend is not novel; we have evolved to incorporate these items into our diets.

He begins with the fundamentals, explaining that fermentation is essentially the transformation of food by microorganisms. This process is complex, affecting not only the taste and durability of food but also our health. Even inactive microbes can influence our bodies and minds.

Fermentation closely ties to our microbiota. Fermented foods provide substrates for intestinal microorganisms, transforming into nutrients and active compounds like short-chain fatty acids that assist in regulating nutrition and immune responses. These foods bolster the beneficial microbes that uphold the gut’s mucosal barrier and reduce inflammation.

Fermented foods also introduce millions of probiotics to our bodies. Spector notes that a diverse microbiota correlates with better health, supported by numerous studies. He suggests that enhancing this diversity through fermented foods could even influence the efficacy of cancer treatments.

“
Improving gut microbiota diversity may even play a role in how well cancer treatments work
“

The most compelling aspect of Fermentation is its exploration of this “microbial pharmacy,” with preliminary studies indicating that fermented products are tied to improvements in everything from irritable bowel syndrome to anxiety and immune health.

Spector’s own investigations, reflecting trends in nutritional studies, suggest that those who consume fermented products regularly report approximately 14% less severe symptoms compared to individuals taking other supplements.

This book includes fascinating information. For instance, despite attempts to cultivate around 30 distinct microorganisms found in natural kefir grains (ideal for making kefir), laboratories haven’t successfully replicated them.

Throughout Fermentation, it becomes apparent how crucial microorganisms are to our lives, merely scratching the surface of their interactions with us. Access to Spector’s health data often supports further research, although his company’s gut supplements are mentioned, potentially hinting at marketing motivations.

At its best, the book strikes a balance between science, medical anecdotes, and Spector’s personal fermentation journey, offering practical advice. During these moments, the writing appears genuine and accessible, especially when guiding readers on food choices, like opting for kefir made from whole milk grains, which include numerous microorganisms and yeast.

Nevertheless, Fermentation can occasionally feel repetitive, and knowledge sometimes overshadows storytelling. Despite Spector’s caution against overgeneralizing animal studies, the infancy of research in this area means he often relies heavily on his own conclusions. Still, this is a compelling and meticulously researched work. The final chapter is particularly intriguing, and I eagerly anticipate a future rich with understanding individual microorganisms— for instance, how cheese or yogurt might aid in alleviating depression or managing menopause.

Initially hesitant to ferment at home, I was encouraged to embark on my own experiments by around page 40. By the book’s conclusion, I had a jar of kombucha and some sauerkraut stashed away in my pantry.

Helen Thomson is a London-based author

New Scientist Book Club

If you love reading, consider joining a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we explore exciting new titles, giving members complimentary access to excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Larry Ellison: Oracle Co-Founder Who Overtook Musk as the World’s Richest Man

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle, is having a remarkable year. With his friend Donald Trump residing in the White House, and his son, David Ellison, taking the helm of the esteemed media company CBS, he recently outpaced his partner Elon Musk to claim the title of “The World’s Richest Person.”

The buzz around Oracle’s stock has further boosted his wealth, bringing Ellison’s net worth to an impressive $393 billion, overtaking Musk’s $384 billion.

While he may not have the same popularity as Musk, Ellison’s impact on Silicon Valley and the political landscape is significant. He is renowned for his extravagant lifestyle, which includes a massive yacht, a private jet, multiple marriages, and ownership of the entire island of Lanai in Hawaii.

At 81, this tech mogul has built a fortune through software development since the 1970s. He co-founded Oracle after securing a two-year contract to develop a database for the CIA. Academy of Achievement. Oracle has grown into a tech giant, creating software for Fortune 500 companies worldwide and making strides in cloud computing. The rise of artificial intelligence has further benefited the company, leading to fruitful partnerships with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT.

“AI is a much bigger deal than the Industrial Revolution, electricity, and everything that has come before,” Ellison emphasized during an interview with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in February.

Having served as Oracle’s CEO for 37 years before becoming Chief Technology Officer in 2014, Ellison continues to lead the board and retains over 40% ownership of the company. Notably, Oracle’s headquarters relocated from Silicon Valley to Austin, Texas, in 2020.

In addition to Oracle, Ellison was on Tesla’s board from 2018 to 2022, holding shares in Musk’s electric vehicle company. According to Forbes, he also owns nearly 50% of Paramount Skydance, a media conglomerate managed by his son David. The company encompasses CBS, MTV, Paramount Pictures, among others. Young Ellison claims that media firms stay clear of political affiliations, yet he is close to Bari Weiss, a controversial figure who co-founded the Free Press to head CBS News.

Ellison’s Connections to Trump and Netanyahu

Ellison has deep ties to the Republican Party and a close relationship with Trump, dating back to his first term. Ellison has often dined at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort and met him in the Oval Office. Oracle has positioned itself as a lead buyer of popular social media platforms as Trump has delayed a Supreme Court ruling that could ban TikTok unless it is sold.

“In Larry, in Larry Ellison, that goes far beyond technology,” Trump remarked in a press conference shortly after taking office. “He’s a great guy and a great businessman.”

Ellison is also closely connected to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has made substantial contributions to the Israeli military through a nonprofit benefiting Israeli Defense Forces. In 2017, he made a record donation of $16.6 million. Oracle did not respond to inquiries from the Guardian about any recent donations.

Ellison has hosted Netanyahu and numerous high-profile officials and celebrities on his extensive estate in Lanai. According to Bloomberg, he purchased 98% of the island in 2012, transforming it into a luxury Four Seasons Resort and a hydroponic farm that produces lettuce and other vegetables. Local residents have shared their concerns over the rapid transformation of their island from a sleepy military base to an ultra-rich destination.

Musk, a close friend and competitor of Ellison in the realm of wealth, is a regular visitor to Lanai and considers Ellison a mentor. During a recent podcast with Texas Senator Ted Cruz, Musk referred to Ellison as one of the smartest individuals he’s ever encountered.

“Larry Ellison is incredibly intelligent,” Musk noted. “I believe he is one of the smartest people.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Safely Deflecting a Deadly Asteroid is Now Possible

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A collision with an asteroid in an incorrect spot can increase the likelihood of it hitting Earth unintentionally.

Bladaki/Shutterstock

If an asteroid were on a collision course with Earth, is it possible to alter its trajectory without worsening the predicament? Indeed, thanks to a new system designed to identify the optimal strike point on incoming asteroids.

Diverting an Earth-bound asteroid is a high-stakes operation, and we have little practical experience with it. In 2023, NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) demonstrated for the first time that it’s possible to divert asteroids by impacting them with spacecraft.

However, engaging in such missions carries risks. Altering an asteroid’s orbit can push it through a narrow window, known as a gravity keyhole, where the gravitational pull from a larger body like Earth may alter its trajectory enough to eventually cause a collision with our planet.

Now, Rahir Macadia from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his team have devised a system to determine the best impact sites for satellites to reduce this risk. By analyzing data from the DART mission along with the asteroid’s shape, mass, and rotation speed, they were able to project how different impact points would alter the asteroid’s trajectory. This leads to the creation of a probability map for the asteroid’s surface, identifying various locations with differing chances of pushing the asteroid through a gravity keyhole, allowing scientists to select those with lower probabilities for a strike.

“It’s feasible to map these keyholes to asteroids, and the only cost involved is computational power before the mission is launched. So, on September 9th, during the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) in Helsinki, Finland, we should be able to pinpoint the optimum targeting point on the asteroid’s surface for a kinetic impact.

Macadia and his team have tested this approach on the asteroid Bennu, discovering over 2,000 potential keyhole locations and identifying safe spots for a spacecraft to impact.

While gathering specific data on a single asteroid is optimal with bespoke probes designed for the task, it might not always be practical if the asteroid is located close to Earth at the time of its detection. However, Macadia asserts that a rough analysis should still be achievable using data from terrestrial telescopes.

Artistic renderings of NASA’s double asteroid redirection test mission

NASA/JOHNS HOPKINS APL/JOSHUA DIAZ

A practical trial for collecting this data will occur when asteroid Apophis passes close to Earth in 2029. Astronomers have determined there is no risk posed by this 450-meter-long asteroid, but close encounters are considered rare, occurring only once every 7,500 years.

“We’ve observed many asteroids, but never one subjected to the kind of stress and natural vibrations due to Earth’s gravity.” Richard Binzel remarked at the EPSC on September 8th, representing the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Nobody knows how NASA’s Osiris Apex spacecraft, which initially visited asteroid Bennu, will fare when redirected to study Apophis in proximity to Earth’s passing European Space Agency’s Ramses spacecraft.

Apart from orbiting asteroids at safe distances to gather crucial details about their composition and shape, astronomers aim to monitor the small kilogram-scale spacecraft on the surface, including long-anticipated seismic activity when it’s near a massive body like Earth, to investigate internal conditions.

According to Binzel, understanding these characteristics is vital for asteroids that may pose future threats to Earth. “If you’re addressing an actual asteroid hazard posed by Apophis or other similar objects, you’ll need to be well-informed about characteristics such as angular momentum and tumbling behavior of the asteroid.”

Paolo Martino, the project manager for the mission, indicated that the trajectory of Apophis is excellently mapped, eliminating the danger of deviation since the Ramses spacecraft is equipped with sensors that enable it to autonomously avoid collisions, and its low mass means any impact would minimally affect Apophis.

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Prosperity of the British Economy Following the Fall of the Roman Empire

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Excavations near Aldborough in the UK reveal insights into life after Roman occupation

RFellerby & MJ Millet

When the Roman Empire withdrew from Britain, it didn’t lead to chaos or total economic failure. Archaeological evidence reveals that metalworking pollution indicates the metal industry in northern England not only continued but thrived in the ensuing centuries.

“The prevalent theory was that the absence of state transportation systems and military equipment would cause the local economy to collapse,” explains Christopher LaBlack from the University of Nottingham, UK. However, archaeology tells a different story. “We see a significant increase in metal-contaminated products.”

La Brack is part of a research team that excavated Roman artifacts from Aldovallo, North Yorkshire, England. Under Roman rule, this area was known as Isurium Brigantum, where metals such as iron and lead were mined and processed.

The team found that aerosol contamination from metalworking practices was preserved in sediment layers accumulated in ancient riverbeds at archaeological sites. By analyzing these layers, they could chart the changes in pollution levels from 345 to 1779 AD.

“This extensive chronology allows for quite a comprehensive view of fluctuations,” notes Jane Carshaw from Oxford University, who did not participate in the research but has studied early medieval metal mining.

In the late 300s and early 400s, with the Roman Empire’s retreat from Britain, it was believed that all forms of government support would vanish, along with tax collection and new currency, leading to the withdrawal of military forces from the region,” says La Brack. Over the following centuries, few written accounts exist, and certain industries, particularly those producing wheel-thrown pottery, experienced a steep decline. This has often been interpreted as indicative of “the collapse of British society in the fifth century,” according to Loveluck.

However, the riverbed records paint a different picture. Lead pollution was minimal during the Roman era, slightly dipping in the late 300s to early 400s, but then increasing steadily until the mid-500s. Correspondingly, pollution from ironworking also saw a rise in the early 500s.

This points to the sustained large-scale production of essential goods, supporting Loveluck’s claims.

The uptick in metal production may have been spurred by internal conflicts, suggests Kershaw. “This was a time of consolidation among various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms,” she explains. “There was considerable fighting between these different factions,” with many fallen warriors buried with swords and knives.

Production levels of metal then sharply dropped in the mid-500s and remained low for several decades. The research team posits this could be linked to the Justinian Plague, which swept through the Mediterranean region between 541 and 549 AD. Ancient DNA evidence from cemeteries in East England supports the arrival of the plague in England. However, the extent and severity of its spread remain uncertain. “There isn’t a significant mass grave filled with plague victims, as we observe in later plague episodes,” explains Kershaw.

The resilience of metal production in Aldborough amidst the Roman retreat aligns with other findings that suggest economic and political continuity. “For instance, Droitwich in Worcestershire has maintained a continuous sequence of salt production from Roman times through to the present day,” notes La Brack.

The aftermath of Rome’s withdrawal has often been labeled the Dark Ages due to the scarcity of written documentation and assumptions of a decline in intellectual life. However, historians argue that this characterization is overly simplistic.

While certain practices, such as the manufacturing of wheel-turned pottery and stone structures, faded, this era also saw the production of copper metalworks, which were widely utilized. “If this period was truly so dire, why are there exquisite brooches and vibrant beaded necklaces?” inquires Kershaw.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Danish Study Reveals Snapchat’s Allowance of Open Drug Dealing on Its Platform

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Danish research institutions have accused Snapchat of enabling “an overwhelming number of drug dealers,” thereby making it easier for minors to access substances like cocaine, opioids, and MDMA.

The platform claims to be actively employing technology to eliminate profiles engaged in drug sales. However, a study by Digitalt Ansvar, a Danish organization advocating for responsible digital development, revealed that usernames did not effectively limit drug-related language. The organization also criticized Snapchat for not adequately addressing reports of profiles that openly promote drug sales.

Investigators utilized a simulated 13-year-old profile and found numerous individuals selling drugs on Snapchat with usernames containing terms like “cola,” “weed,” and “molly.” After reporting 40 such accounts to Snapchat, only 10 were removed, while the remaining 30 were dismissed.

Snapchat claims that 75% of reported accounts are “actively disabled,” yet the platform has now acted on all reports.

The research highlighted that, despite prior criticisms, Snapchat’s recommendation system endorses and promotes profiles of individuals engaged in illegal drug sales, even reaching children who have not previously interacted with any drug-related content.

Within hours, the test profile for the 13-year-old was suggested to add a friend associated with a drug trafficking profile.

“We are eager to see future improvements,” remarked Hesby Holm Ask, CEO of Digitalt Ansvar.

“Snapchat claims to filter profiles that actively utilize the platform for drug sales, yet our findings indicate otherwise. Snapchat permissively allows the presence of drug-related profiles and fails to adequately address either implicit or explicit drug-related language in usernames.”

He further emphasized that not moderating profiles with such clear drug-related usernames implies that “children and young individuals can easily access illicit substances on Snapchat.” He stated, “The technology exists; what is lacking is the will. Snapchat could effortlessly filter out such usernames.”

According to Snapchat, by 2023, 90% of Scandinavians aged 13-24 were users of the platform. Digitalt Ansvar has accused Snapchat of violating EU digital service regulations concerning child safety and has called for action from authorities.

Skip past newsletter promotions

A Snapchat representative stated: “We have a zero-tolerance policy for drug sales on Snapchat. Although the accounts flagged in the study were not all reported via the app, over 75% were already disabled by our team before this report was noted.

“We are committed to combating the misuse of our platform by drug dealers, investing significantly in resources to achieve this goal. We employ rigorous detection methods to identify and disable these accounts, collaborate with law enforcement to prosecute dealers, and educate the community about drug risks. Our dedication to maintaining a hostile environment for drug dealers is unwavering.”

Source: www.theguardian.com