Numerous intriguing claims about gardening have circulated, especially one that insists, “The soil acts as an antidepressant.”
According to this notion, it’s been promoted through countless social media posts. Mycobacterium vaccae, microorganisms commonly found in soil, are said to improve your mood. Simply engaging with the earth can yield these benefits. It’s believed that these bacteria can be absorbed through your skin or inhaled, subsequently enhancing your brain chemistry. But is this as credible as it seems?
While these claims may appear peculiar at first glance, studies have indeed explored the effects of this microorganism on various health conditions, such as eczema and cancer. Interestingly, M. vaccae was first identified in Ugandan soil samples while scientists sought a non-lethal relative of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and it has potential as a form of immunotherapy.
Researchers became intrigued by its possible benefits for depression when lung cancer patients treated with this bacteria reported improvements in their quality of life, which was an unexpected yet welcomed side effect. Current research, likely indicating an uplift in mood, has been replicated across numerous well-designed studies. Thus, the internet is rife with memes about this finding.
However, there is a caveat. All studies specifically examining this hypothesis have been conducted on mice rather than humans, which is significant because the outcomes of animal studies are often difficult to extrapolate to humans. For instance, one review of 76 animal studies found that only 37% were replicated in human trials.
Moreover, the mice used in the M. vaccae studies were male and from specific inbred strains. Researchers varied their methods for administering the bacteria, either by saturating the air in their cages or applying it directly to their skin. Most studies I found involved injecting the bacteria into the bloodstream of the mice or incorporating it into their food.
As someone captivated by the growing evidence that suggests spending time in green spaces improves mental health, I eagerly anticipate further research on M. vaccae. Nevertheless, despite the viral nature of the claim that “soil is an antidepressant,” it’s essential to acknowledge that it primarily stems from studies on male mice injected with purified bacteria.
James Wong is a botanist and science writer with a particular focus on food crops, conservation, and the environment. He trained at the Royal Botanic Garden in Kew, London, and shares a small flat with over 500 houseplants.Follow him on X and Instagram @BotanyGeek
For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker
A key to nurturing a healthy relationship might involve gazing into the faces of those glued to their smartphones.
Recent research Published in Journal Plos One indicates that incorporating emojis in text messages strengthens personal connections and enhances satisfaction.
Researchers from the University of Texas conducted a study with 260 participants aged 23 to 67, asking them to review 15 text message exchanges differing solely by the presence of emojis.
Participants were prompted to envision themselves as the sender of each message while analyzing the recipient’s response, gauging aspects like responsiveness, likability, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction.
The findings showed that individuals who included emojis in their texts were perceived as more emotionally aware in their interactions compared to those who used text alone.
Moreover, emojis served as nonverbal indicators of attention and emotional investment.
Luke McGregor, 42, and Amy Thunig-McGregor, 37, shared their experiences with emoji use.
Luke recounted that he had to adapt to integrating emojis in his messages to Amy, as he hadn’t been a frequent emoji user at the relationship’s start.
“I traditionally didn’t use emojis much, but once I got together with Amy, I noticed she used them frequently. There were vulnerabilities and challenges I needed to overcome to start using them myself,” McGregor explained.
Emojis are significant for Amy Thunig-McGregor and her partner Luke McGregor.
“I wanted Amy to feel cherished, so regularly sending her emojis to express my affection was crucial for me, especially initially,” he mentioned.
Amy highlighted the effectiveness of emojis in enhancing communication.
“Both of us are autistic, which makes context essential… emojis help clarify tone and intention in ways that plain text can’t achieve,” they stated.
Dr. Raquel Peel, a senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Central Queensland and not involved in the study, noted that emojis can be a creative solution when face-to-face interactions aren’t possible with partners.
“I don’t believe emojis can replace direct interactions in intimate relationships. Yet, we must recognize that such interactions aren’t always viable,” Peel remarked.
“If meeting your partner isn’t feasible, using emojis becomes a valuable alternative.”
She advised not to undervalue communication in a relationship, emphasizing the need to stay connected in every possible way.
“Many forget that relationships benefit from humor and enjoyment,” Peel explained.
“If emojis can fulfill that role, they contribute to fun and connection through humor, which is incredibly important.”
Can flashy technology directly influence the regulation of hormones within your body and mind? By the year 2035, a myriad of options had emerged on the market. Morning pick-me-ups? Do you stimulate desire when you settle down for the night? Or perhaps a period of immunity to discomfort? It’s all now within reach.
This innovation began in 2027, when daily treatments for severe surface and internal abrasions were developed within a living dressing. This dressing belonged to a class of engineered Biological Materials (ELM) that produce enzymes and antibiotics to expedite healing.
ELM is also utilized in the production of fermented beverage kombucha, inspired by the biofilm that can form in vinegar. Known as the “mother” layer, biofilms are living substances and symbiotic cultures of bacteria and yeast (Scoby). In vinegar, Scoby transforms alcohol into acetic acid, while in kombucha, it generates acetic acid and other compounds from sweetened tea. However, crafting unique synthetic scobies (sin-sobies) with gene-edited yeasts and bacteria can generate the essential enzymes, nutrients, and hormones. In 2021, a team from Imperial College London developed programmable Scobys using Baker’s yeast, easily modified to produce various compounds.
The first widely adopted Syn-Scoby was a medical material, stored in a dormant state within emergency kits and surgical units. When required, the material, now referred to as the Heal Me patch, is extracted and applied to the affected area. Once exposed to oxygen, the yeast is reactivated to convert its cellulose matrix into the necessary compounds. These include protein-degrading enzymes that swiftly dismantle dead and damaged tissues, alongside other enzymes that mitigate pain and inflammation, thereby accelerating recovery.
Following successful medical applications, Syn-Scobys were devised in the 2030s for numerous uses, extending from contaminant detection in the environment to delivering vital nutrients, enzymes, and hormones. Syn-Scobys replaced the bionic pancreas utilized by individuals with type 1 diabetes for insulin production and blood glucose control. Other variants emitted a luminescent protein upon identifying specific contaminants, metals, or pathogens in the surroundings.
Military researchers created patches that produce adrenaline and testosterone to alleviate pain and enhance aggression. However, Heal Me patches had direct access to the bloodstream via human wounds, exposing the compounds to digestive enzymes before absorption. To counter this, scientists engineered patches intended to be implanted in the thighs or abdomen. When soldiers required a boost, an activating enzyme was injected at the implant site. This initiating enzyme activates the Syn-Scoby within the patch and releases the desired compounds into the bloodstream.
Activate your customized living implants to enhance focus, aggression, stamina, and pain tolerance.
Customized living implants can be triggered as needed to amplify focus, aggression, endurance, and pain resistance. Recreational Synscobi is designed to generate stimulants, psychedelics, and libido enhancers.
The array of embedded patches is now available for immediate use. They secrete leptin to mimic solid leptin and inhibit ghrelin, which triggers hunger. Another variant allows live implants to produce semaglutide drugs such as Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic to suppress the urge to eat or drink, focusing on generating drugs like modafinil and oxiracetam that enhance cognitive function and memory retention.
For recreational purposes, psychoactive compounds like psilocybin are secreted, easily synthesized from gene-edited yeast. Users are filled with oxytocin and serotonin, fostering feelings of love, joy, and sexual desire. Dream Me facilitates controllable dreaming and stages of restful sleep, offering two options: Lucid and Black Out.
The most exclusive and sought-after implant was the Juve Me series, which generated various anti-aging compounds known as cytopathy and gathered senomorphic substances such as rapamycin and metformin that clear senescent cells and rejuvenate aged cells. Unlike many other ELMs, which have a temporary existence within the body before being metabolized, Juve Me implants were purposefully designed to be self-sustaining. It represents a symbiotic being living harmoniously within a fortunate individual, supplying nutrients essential for the implant’s longevity and vitality.
Hat Tips for Iain M. Banks’s culture The novels serve as inspiration for my symbiotic implants, which align with the bank’s concept of “Granding.”
Rowan Hooper is the podcast editor for New Scientist and author of How to Spend $1 Trillion: These are 10 global issues that can realistically be addressed. Follow him on Bluesky @rowhoop.bsky.social
Feedback, featuring the latest in science and technology news from New Scientist, invites readers to share captivating items. Email your suggestions to Feedback@newscientist.com.
Bleaker House
Feedback states that one of life’s great joys is encapsulated in the opening line of a book: “It was the day my grandmother exploded.” As the performance manager sat before the curtains in the hall, a profound melancholy enveloped him amidst the crowded scene. “Why not start at the end of the world?”
This sentiment has resonated with many, including ourselves, as we contemplate recent literature. An article in the New Yorker examines the impact of artificial intelligence on the reading experience. The assertion is that AI may render complex prose into something more accessible.
Writer Joshua Rothman illustrated this with a passage from Charles Dickens’ intricately worded opening in Great Expectations: “Gas lamps flicker in the mist of the street, just as the sun dips low, accompanied by her husband and the ploughboy returning from the field.” AI Claude rephrased it: “Gas lamps glow faintly through the mist in various parts of the street, just as the sun appears to farmers working in fog-covered fields.”
On some level, it seems Claude managed to capture an essence of Dickens’ intent, yet elements like cadence and rhythm profoundly affect the reading experience. The phrase “various spots” feels jarring when read. Additionally, I question whether the sole goal of the passage is simply to convey a misty atmosphere. In Great Expectations, the tension and evocative language—words like “loom” and “sponge”—convey a deeper mood.
But literary analysis aside, let’s ponder what other dense passages AI might simplify for easier understanding. Adam Sharp has already given some examples. Take, for instance, Sylvia Plath’s opening in The Bell Jar: “It was a strange, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted Rosenberg, and I had no idea what I was doing in New York.” Sharp offers the following summary: “It was sizzling hot that summer, and so was Rosenberg.”
What about Jane Austen’s intro? Pride and Prejudice states: “It is a universally acknowledged truth that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” We can certainly simplify it: “It’s well-known that wealthy single men are looking to marry.” We encourage readers to identify similar complex passages ripe for AI’s simplification.
I’ll Burn It Before I See It
Recently, Brian Darbell received a DVD of the movie Conclave, and a yellow sticker on the back caused him theological confusion: “Security: Remove before microwave.” Now that’s one way to create white smoke.
The Truth About Storks
Feedback was surprised when readers reminded them that correlation does not equal causation. What triggered this revelation?
Jim Handman highlighted two peculiar correlations. The number of pirates worldwide has decreased nearly in tandem with rising global temperatures, leading to the slogan: “Stop global warming: Become a pirate.”
Conversely, murder rates often increase alongside ice cream sales. Jim quipped, “This latter correlation seems silly. However, there’s a logical explanation.” Warmer climates encourage outdoor activities, fostering social interactions that inadvertently create more opportunities for both ice cream sales and crime. Notably, this rings true for me: I once went out for ice cream only to have it snatched by a seagull. Lesson learned—I’m now enjoying ice cream indoors, far from marauding seabirds.
The third correlation we discussed in a recent column involves the relationship between stork populations and the number of children born. Initially, we dismissed this correlation. Nevertheless, three readers offered insight.
Hilary Shaw suggested an environmental link: “Storks prefer nesting in elevated locations such as chimneys or church spires. Affluent societies with low birth rates often replace ‘unsightly pylons’ with buried cables and do not install chimneys in centrally heated homes.”
Paul Van echoed this thought, recalling his A-level statistics days, noting a positive correlation between the number of stork nests in Dutch neighborhoods and family size. His explanation? “Larger families tend to occupy bigger homes with more chimneys, thus providing more stork nesting options.”
Finally, Brian Lefin Smith noted a riverbank in Germany, known for its abundance of storks crouching to pick up items. Brian mentioned spotting an “unopened condom wrapper” twice, prompting the question: “Are storks pilfering to ensure more babies, thus creating a cycle of self-interest?” He provided a crucial insight: “Malicious intent is often absent from statistical correlations.”
Reflect on that and identify the most plausible correlation.
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There are no specific foods that are prohibited while using Ozempic (semaglutide), which is prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and may assist in weight loss.
However, the following recommendations can help maximize your weight loss efforts and promote a sustainable, healthy diet over time.
Foods to Increase…
1. High-fiber foods
Fiber slows the digestion process and enhances the effectiveness of Ozempic in emptying the stomach, helping you feel full longer and preventing blood sugar spikes.
Examples of high-fiber foods include vegetables (like leafy greens, carrots, broccoli, etc.), fruits (such as apples, berries, oranges, etc.), and whole grains like oats.
High-fiber options like oats and fruits can slow sugar release and support gut health – Credit: Zeljkosantrac
2. Lean protein
Incorporating lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and plant-based proteins helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
3. Healthy fats
Sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide sustained energy and assist in blood sugar regulation without causing spikes.
4. Low-glycemic foods
Foods with a low glycemic index, such as sweet potatoes and non-starchy vegetables, can help prevent rapid increases in blood glucose levels.
Processed and fried foods may exacerbate the side effects of semaglutide, including nausea – Credit: Alexander Spatari via Getty
Foods to Reduce…
1. Sugary treats
Candies, pastries, sodas, and other sweet snacks can cause spikes in blood sugar and contribute to nausea and other digestive issues.
2. Processed and Fried Foods
These foods are typically high in unhealthy fats, salts, and preservatives, which can worsen nausea and interfere with blood sugar control.
3. Spicy Foods
Due to the delayed gastric emptying caused by Ozempic, spicy or heavy foods may lead to nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.
4. Alcohol
Individuals taking Ozempic may experience reduced alcohol tolerance, so it’s wise to be mindful of consumption. Additionally, alcohol contains calories that won’t aid in weight loss.
This article addresses the question posed by Jamil Pierce from Surrey: “What are the best and worst foods to eat while on Ozempic?”
Please reach out to submit your questionsto Question @sciencefocus.com or message us viaFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
Explore our ultimateFun factsand more fascinating science content.
Building strong friendships may seem like a natural process—finding joy in each other’s presence, sharing laughter, and bonding over common interests. However, the unspoken dynamics of different types of friendships can often be complex. Recent research has shed light on the significance of these relationships in our overall happiness. Yet, there are strategies for nurturing meaningful connections.
This article is a part of our special series that explores how experts view some of the most intriguing concepts in science. Click here for additional information.
Jeffrey Hall, Director of the Relationships and Technology Labs at the University of Kansas, is among the researchers examining ways to cultivate friendships. He suggests viewing friendships as a spectrum—from mere acquaintances to our closest confidants who remain by our side.
“The fundamental requirement is mutual liking and a communication frequency that allows the relationship to develop,” he states. “Trust and a sense of safety in sharing secrets are expected, along with prioritizing each other above others.”
Time invested in a friendship is crucial, as highlighted by Hall’s research. In a series of studies, he had participants recently relocated to a new city map out their social lives. He found that individuals must spend about 57-164 hours with someone before they are deemed “friends,” while developing “good” or “best” friendships typically requires around 200 hours together.
The quality of time spent together is also vital. “Engaging in daily activities—eating, drinking, playing, exploring—helps cement these bonds because we want to share those moments with them,” says Hall, co-author of the upcoming book Social Biome, which delves into these themes. Conversely, being compelled to interact through work or study does little to foster genuine friendships.
It’s common to find ourselves gravitating toward individuals who share common traits. Over the last decade, anthropologist Robin Dunbar from Oxford University identified seven key attributes in “pillars of friendship.” These pillars represent deep connections stemming from shared language, culture, education, career experiences, interests, worldviews, humor, and musical tastes.
He notes that we may share only one or two of these pillars with around 150 people we identify as friends, while only five close companions and about six to seven truly good friends exist in our lives, as mentioned in his book Friends: Understanding the Influence of Our Most Important Relationships.
Interestingly, friends may even share similar brain activity patterns. In a 2018 study, Carolyn Parkinson at UCLA had students watch a series of videos in an fMRI scanner. The results showed that she could predict friendships based on similarities in their brain responses to the clips, indicating that closer friends often have synchronized neural activity.
As discussed in my book, Connection Law, Parkinson’s research explores the concept of shared reality. This idea suggests that having a mutual perspective on the world enhances relationships. “These individuals focus on similar aspects of life and share similar emotional responses to their experiences,” she notes.
Can these connections exist digitally? Hall believes they can. “Communicating via phone or video with loved ones is likely just as beneficial as in-person interactions,” he asserts. “Creating regular opportunities for digital communication can help maintain and enrich these relationships.”
Explore more articles in this series by following the links below:
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago School of Medicine and Columbia University revealed that increasing fruit and vegetable intake to five cups daily, as recommended by dietary guidelines, is linked to a 16% enhancement in sleep quality.
Borge et al. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake during the day was found to be associated with improved sleep that same night. Image credit: Guillermo Gavilla.
Observational studies have shown that diets of high quality correlate with better sleep quality.
Despite this, a deeper comprehension of this relationship is essential, as dietary changes could represent novel and natural methods for enhancing sleep.
“We have been striving to maximize our lives,” stated Dr. Esla Tasari, director of the Sleep Center at the University of Chicago.
“The temporal associations and objectively measured outcomes from this study are significant in addressing gaps in crucial public health knowledge.”
Earlier observational research indicated that higher consumption of fruits and vegetables was connected to improved self-reported overall sleep quality, but this latest study is the first to establish a temporal link between specific daily food choices and objectively measured sleep quality.
Healthy young adults in this study recorded their daily food intake through an app and wore wrist monitors to allow researchers to obtain objective measurements of their sleep patterns.
The researchers focused on sleep fragmentation, which indicates the frequency of awakenings during sleep or transitions into deep sleep throughout the night.
They discovered that meal choices had significant correlations with differences in sleep quality the following night.
Participants consuming more fruits and vegetables during the day experienced deeper, more uninterrupted sleep that night, similar to those who included healthy carbohydrates like whole grains.
Based on their findings and statistical modeling, scientists estimate that those who adhere to the CDC’s recommendation of five cups of fruits and vegetables per day could see a 16% improvement in sleep quality compared to those who do not consume these foods.
“A 16% difference is substantial,” said Dr. Tasari.
“It’s remarkable that such significant changes can be detected within just 24 hours.”
Future studies will aim to establish causal relationships, expand the findings to diverse populations, and explore the underlying mechanisms of digestion, neurology, and metabolism that may clarify the positive effects of fruits and vegetables on sleep quality.
Nevertheless, based on current evidence, the authors strongly recommend maintaining a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables for optimal long-term sleep health.
“They are making a difference,” remarked Dr. Marie Pierre St. Onge, director of the Center for Sleep and Circadian Research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
“Minor adjustments can impact your sleep. It’s empowering to know better rest is within your control.”
The study was published in the journal Sleep Health this month.
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Header L. Boge et al. We anticipate that increased daytime intake of fruits and vegetables will lead to less disrupted nighttime sleep in younger adults. Sleep Health Published online on June 11th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.sleh.2025.05.003
LAnea George opens the steel security door and enters a windowless room, where a device resembling a commercial-grade refrigerator awaits. Dubbed the Bodhi, it dispenses seven small plastic bottles, each containing precisely 70ml of methadone, an alternative to morphine or heroin in addiction treatment.
She takes the bottles from the tray, bundles them with rubber bands, and places them on the shelf. It’s not even 10 am, and George, the nurse manager at Man Alive—a well-known opioid treatment program in Baltimore—has already prepared doses for about 100 patients set to arrive the following day. “Bodhi has transformed my life and the lives of my patients,” she states.
Preparing these prescriptions requires more than merely pouring medication into bottles. This process involves printing each label individually, measuring the amounts accurately, sealing the bottles, and capping them securely. If there are spills, the nurse must stop to collect the lost liquid, measure it, document the incident, and dispose of it properly.
Repeating this procedure over 100 times illustrates why the task can take an entire day before Bodhi even arrives. George notes that many nurses leave the profession, often due to issues like carpal tunnel syndrome from repeatedly screwing caps on multiple bottles daily.
“I’ve seen nurses just walk off shifts and never return,” she reflects on her previous clinic.
Now, with more time freed up, George can focus on patient interaction. “It allows me to be more personal and have deeper conversations,” she remarks. “That’s where we uncover a lot of important information.”
Injecting Humanity into Addiction Treatment
This increase in patient interaction was the motivation behind the machine that George uses daily. Amber Norbeck, a pharmacist in the neonatal intensive care unit at Montana Hospital, noted that 50% of newborns experience withdrawal symptoms due to maternal opioid addiction.
Methadone therapy can help these women become mothers, but access is often problematic. The clinic she visited had a 30-60 day waiting list, and other patients faced three-hour waits despite a shortage of nursing staff during visits. Some patients must return daily for doses.
“It didn’t feel like healthcare; it felt more like a bank teller experience,” she explains. “For working individuals trying to manage their lives, the lengthy process often led them to give up.”
With U.S. overdose deaths from opioids rising from around 8,000 in 2009 to over 114,000 in 2022, Norbeck recognized a nation grappling with the opioid crisis amid a nursing shortage. In 2019, she and engineer Mike Pokolny began devising methods to automate the methadone dosing process.
They developed a robotic device capable of dispensing liquid medication in seconds, sealing, labeling, and capping each bottle. A year later, Norbeck left her hospital position, and in January 2021, the duo founded Opio Connect Inc, with Norbeck serving as CEO and Pokolny as vice-chairman.
They named the device Zing, utilizing components designed for other machines for a quicker assembly. “Existing pharmacy automation solutions weren’t designed for the variations required for dispensing methadone,” states Sam Wilson, Opio’s COO.
Pandemic Era Methadone Rules Support Automation
The introduction of Zing coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, which provided an unexpected boost. Pre-pandemic, patients labeled “stable” could take home multiple doses, but during lockdowns, federal authorities relaxed these rules, allowing them to receive up to 28 days’ worth of medication.
While this policy shift intensified preparation and nurse workloads, post-Covid data revealed no significant patient benefits. The new take-home rules became permanent in January 2024.
By then, the first Zing was deployed at Compdrug, an opioid treatment program in Columbus, Ohio, affectionately nicknamed Alfie. Seven additional Zings were installed across the country, each receiving its own name. This humanizing aspect led to naming contests, birthday celebrations, gender awareness events, and Halloween costumes. Together, they have assembled over 1 million methadone doses.
Norbeck anticipates that 30-40 more Zings will be operational by the end of 2025. The company is targeting 2,100 clinics and correctional facilities nationwide, emphasizing that many individuals require treatment, yet attracting nursing staff remains a challenge.
Automated Labor: Job Loss or Mitigating Labor Shortages?
Norbeck is uncertain about job losses attributed to Zing, but some clinics found themselves able to keep open positions unfilled, reallocating savings to other treatment initiatives.
“There was concern that [Zing] would replace nurses, but its true purpose is to liberate them,” explains Pokolny.
Compdrug previously employed six nurses to administer methadone throughout the day. Currently, with Zing’s assistance, only three handle dosing while the other three focus on telehealth. All six remain employed.
At Man Alive, Bodhi’s introduction has allowed George additional time, enabling her to also serve as a home nurse, assisting patients in connecting with medical care and following up on medication and health concerns.
However, it’s important to recognize another facet to these scenarios. Unfilled positions, whether in telehealth or home health, may exist regardless of robotic assistance. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, the nursing workforce is projected to face a shortage of over 63,720 nurses by 2030, not accounting for losses incurred during the pandemic.
Norbeck believes that robotics can be a means to alleviate employment shortages rather than exacerbate them.
In Baltimore, George and her fellow nurses at Man Alive have organized educational initiatives in the community, further connecting with patients through participation in in-house group therapy sessions. Simply put, George states, “Bodhi has allowed me to rediscover my role as a nurse.”
The Italian Ministry of Interior has instructed police across the country to step up security at Tesla dealerships following a fire in Rome that destroyed 17 electric vehicles manufactured by Elon Musk’s company.
The Digos, an anti-terrorism force within the Italian state police, is investigating whether anarchists were behind the fire at a Tesla dealership in Torre Angela, a suburb of Rome.
Firefighters spent hours extinguishing the flames early Monday. Drone footage showed a line of charred vehicles in the dealership’s parking lot. Musk referred to the incident as “terrorism” on his social media platforms.
Italy is home to 13 Tesla dealerships managed by the parent company, with most located in cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan.
A source within the interior ministry indicated that they are alerting authorities to the possibility of anti-Tesla protests amidst a global trend of vandalism in response to Musk’s political involvement in the US. Surveillance at dealerships will be increased as needed.
Since Donald Trump’s presidency began, Musk has reduced government employees as part of his “government efficiency” initiative, leading to the establishment of the “Tesla Takedown” boycott movement that started in the US and spread to Europe.
While most protests have been peaceful so far, Tesla dealerships and vehicles are increasingly becoming targets of vandalism. In Germany, seven vehicles were vandalized at dealerships in Ottersburg, and in Sweden, two Tesla stores—one in Stockholm and another in Malmö—were destroyed with orange paint.
Musk has fostered ties with far-right leaders in Europe, such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who praised him as “a great man.” Matteo Salvini, leader of the far-right league in Italy, expressed solidarity with Musk following the incident in Rome.
“There is unwarranted animosity towards Tesla,” Salvini stated.
aAdults who love video games understand the struggle of having too many options – 19,000 games were released in 2024 on the PC Game Storefront Steam alone, not to mention the countless games available on consoles and smartphones. Many of us have a backlog of classic games we haven’t played yet, leading us to feel guilty about buying new ones. However, discovering truly good games can sometimes feel impossible. Approximately 50% of the questions we receive for this newsletter are variations of “Help, what should I play?”
While we do our best to assist, as someone who is knowledgeable about games, I still don’t have unlimited time to play them all. Streamers spend their days playing games, but they tend to specialize in specific games and genres, rarely venturing outside their comfort zones. Nowadays, navigating through Google search results, parsing complex Reddit threads, and getting lost in AI-generated recommendations can be overwhelming.
Enter Louise Sene’s new app, set to launch on Kickstarter this week, aiming to address this issue. Described as the Tinder for video games, the app presents users with a game name, details, a stack of cards featuring screenshots, and a trailer link, which users can swipe left or right on to indicate their interest. Based on user preferences, the app provides new game suggestions, allowing users to build a deck of games they want to try. The app also shows connections between games, providing transparency on where the recommendations are coming from.
Users can also select specific experts, such as streamers, critics, and other gaming personalities, to receive recommendations from. Each expert has their own card with a brief bio and background, aligning with the app’s focus on human recommendations rather than AI-driven algorithms. The recommendations are based on datasets compiled by the team over five years from the Family Game Database, a trusted site for parents.
Andy Robertson, a seasoned game writer leading the project, emphasizes the importance of uncovering hidden gems within the vast realm of games. The app aims to make game discovery fun and effective again by utilizing a blend of matchmaking features and personalized recommendations from experts. If the Kickstarter goals are met, Ludocene will be available for free in a basic format, with an optional subscription model for additional features at just £3 a month.
Personalized and niche game recommendations are invaluable, especially in an era dominated by AI-driven recommendations. For those seeking expert-driven suggestions, platforms like Louise Sene’s app cater to a more curated gaming experience.
Another valuable resource for discovering games is the Thinky Games Website, a database and review site for puzzle enthusiasts. Featuring a wide range of games across various platforms, the site provides descriptions written by individuals who have played the games, offering a more personal touch compared to store-provided data.
As someone who has been a gaming critic for nearly 20 years, I believe in the power of person-to-person game recommendations, especially in a digital landscape overwhelmed by algorithmic suggestions. While I haven’t signed up as a Ludocene expert yet, I may consider doing so in the future. To learn more about the app, visit their Kickstarter Page.
“I achieved 40 seconds of uninterrupted concentration.”
Apparently, this is cause for celebration. For the past 10 minutes, I've been staring at my phone, trying to move a digital ball up a hill using only the power of my mind. The Mendi headset I wear analyzes my brain activity and reflects it in my games. The more you concentrate, the higher the ball will rise.
This exercise is thought to work your mental muscles, just like using weights to train your physical muscles, ultimately increasing your focus and reducing stress.
Like thousands of other people, I've been wearing smartwatches for years to help me track my fitness and improve my physical health. But the wearables industry has set its sights on a new target: mental health. We now have smart watches and brainwave-reading devices that not only analyze the state of our nervous systems, but perhaps intervene proactively to improve our well-being, and we now have mental health support. We're making it more accessible and wearable than ever before. “We're harnessing the brain's ability to rewire itself so that we can have more control over our emotions,” he says. Mustafa Hamada Mendi Chief Product and Scientific Officer.
As someone who suffers from stress and anxiety, I'm willing to try anything that helps me control it. But I have a background in neuroscience, so I’m wary of believing the hype. So I took a closer look at the growing number of devices targeting concentration, concentration, stress and anxiety to find out how they work and which ones actually make a difference…
In today’s society, there is a growing interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics due to their potential to enhance workflow, communication, and technical capabilities. However, researchers are faced with the challenge of adapting robots quickly to external stimuli for more fluid movement in their environments. To achieve this, scientists are exploring the intricate systems of brain cells that communicate through neural networks.
A team of researchers from Cornell University aimed to address limitations in robotics that computer programs have struggled with, such as short lifespan, intensive maintenance, and low responsiveness to environmental changes. They investigated the potential of improving biohybrid neural networks using living materials combined with synthetic materials to enable faster reactions to unpredictable situations and problem-solving in robots.
Previous studies have utilized neural networks based on animal and plant cells to enhance robot movement and environmental responsiveness. However, maintaining these cells in artificial environments can be challenging and requires extensive care. The researchers in this study focused on using a more robust non-animal system based on fungi, which transmit information through electrical signals similar to animals.
Fungi create mycelial networks to transport nutrients, detect signals, and respond to environmental cues, making them resilient and less susceptible to contamination compared to animal cells. The researchers built two robots—one with independent arm movements and the other with forward-backward motion—and integrated the Eryngium mushroom fungus into their control boards to observe natural electrical signals and responses to stimuli.
By growing the fungi on the robot’s control interface and analyzing the bioelectrical signals, the researchers discovered that the network effectively controlled the robot’s functions. They also observed the fungus’s response to different light stimuli, leading to the conclusion that fungal biohybridization could revolutionize robotics with its adaptability and sensory capabilities.
The researchers conducted experiments to test the robot’s reaction to ultraviolet light, showcasing the fungus’s ability to control the robot’s movements solely through natural electrical signals. They proposed that fungal biohybridization offers a promising avenue for advancing robotics by leveraging fungi’s resilience and sensory capabilities for improved adaptability and reliability.
Physicians as a whole are a very smart group, but they can be resistant to change. The most famous example is probably the 19th century surgeon who refused to wash his hands when going from the mortuary to the delivery room, spreading undiscovered microorganisms that led to the infant's death. Hungarian doctor Ignaz Semmelweis collected statistics to argue that soap and water can save lives, but was ridiculed and ostracized.
Today, we live in more enlightened times and medical practices are generally supported by evidence, but do we always have the right evidence to make changes? For example, do we always have the right evidence to make changes? There are also indications that bringing it into clinical practice could save lives. As we report in “AI Helps Radiologists Detect Breast Cancer During Physical Exams,” radiologists who choose to use image classification AI to help detect breast cancer are detected one extra case per 1,000 people. Across the health system, the impact can be significant.
Does that mean we should encourage doctors to ditch the scrubs and let the machines do it? Far from it. AI systems with large language models like ChatGPT can pass multiple-choice medical tests, but do poorly at conversational diagnosis (see “AI Chatbot Fails Conversational Diagnosis of Patients”). ). Physicians with a good bedside manner and a listening ear remain essential for now.
We should be bolder when testing medical AI systems in real-world settings
Instead, there are two conclusions that can be drawn from these studies. The first is that we need to be careful in using the general term “artificial intelligence.” Although the two systems we report share underlying neural network technology, image classification is a completely different task than text generation, and the latter risks the AI spitting out plausible but inaccurate results. much higher. In other words, not all AIs are created equal.
The second conclusion is that we need to be more bold in testing medical AI systems in real-world settings, not just in the lab or in simulations. The breast cancer study showed that AI can be a useful tool, giving radiologists control over when to use it. This effort to obtain more evidence could save lives, as it did for Semmelweis, who is now considered a medical hero.
If you are not only keeping up with the health news of this year, but also following all its recommendations, you are on your way to a truly healthy life.
First, you have probably adjusted your eating habits. Maybe you have been motivated to go vegan after reading an article that claims a diet can reverse your biological age in just eight weeks, or because scientists have found that in combination with exercise, weight loss can be achieved. You might have experimented with intermittent fasting.
You could have opted for a Mediterranean diet to keep your brain young, or increased your fiber intake to make up for a deficiency that most people supposedly have, according to scientists.
Adopting a vegan diet for just 8 weeks can change DNA methylation patterns and reduce biological age – Image credit: Getty Images
It is equally possible that conflicting evidence has led you in a different direction. After all, one study linked intermittent fasting to a 91 percent higher risk of cardiovascular death, and another warned of cancerous mutations during the post-fasting eating period. Several major studies are also reconsidering calorie restriction as the best way to extend lifespan.
Even the negative reputation of ultra-processed foods was a topic of debate. One study showed that avoiding ultra-processed foods reduced the risk of cognitive decline by 12 percent, but a 30-year Harvard University study suggested that ultra-processed foods are not as harmful as we believe.
If you have given up on your diet altogether, we don’t blame you. Ultimately, it was the new weight-loss medications, including those initially in pill form and an alternative to Ozempic that does not cause muscle loss, that gained significant attention.
Early indications of “exercise drugs” brought hope even to those who are unable to be physically active. While some researchers were encouraged by two studies suggesting that walking alone can improve cardiovascular health and reduce back pain, others found that just one exercise session per week could reduce cognitive decline by 13 percent.
More than 50% of men will be bald by the age of 50. A breakthrough in 2024 could change things – Image courtesy of Getty
Scientists claim that the anti-aging solution is within our bodies, as they have discovered that white blood cells can be reprogrammed to target and eliminate senescent cells. Elsewhere, the Atlas of Aging explains why our muscles weaken as we age and how this process can be halted.
Furthermore, a British study found that a simple intervention dramatically reduced peanut allergy rates by 71 percent.
Meanwhile, new possibilities have emerged in the field of hair removal after researchers revealed that a naturally occurring sugar in the human body can help treat male pattern baldness.
In the medical field, a new breath test that can detect lung cancer early is showing promise, and an Irish research team believes they have developed a way to vaccinate against eczema.
Researchers have developed a respiratory sensor that can detect early signs of lung cancer by identifying specific chemical changes, providing a simple, non-invasive screening method – Image courtesy of Getty Images
In positive news, a survey reveals that life is not solely about money. Some of the world’s poorest regions, which rely on nature rather than income, reported higher life satisfaction scores than countries at the top of the World Happiness Index (such as Finland, Denmark, and Iceland).
There was also one health news item that did not offer any new information. It is already known that spending time with dogs can increase your sense of well-being and brain wave activity. We certainly take that advice to heart…or head to the park to play.
Atrial fibrillation is an independent risk factor for the development of cognitive impairment. Regular coffee consumption shows cognitive benefits in healthy people. Whether regular intake reduces cognitive decline in vulnerable patients is controversial. In a new study, scientists from Zurich University Hospital and elsewhere investigated the link with atrial fibrillation in older people.
Coffee consumption in patients with atrial fibrillation may be associated with improved cognitive performance and decreased inflammatory markers. Image credit: Sci.News.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia, affecting 5% of the population over the age of 65 and increasing exponentially thereafter.
AF increases thromboembolic stroke risk fivefold. Moreover, it represents an independent risk factor for developing mild cognitive impairment and dementia, with odds ratios ranging from 2.3 to 5.8, respectively.
AF is associated with increased incidence of vascular cognitive impairment, increased size and number of strokes, as well as increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
The 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation states that abstaining from caffeine to prevent heart rhythm disturbances is not beneficial for AF patients.
The guidelines also suggest that for patients who report that caffeine causes or worsens symptoms of atrial fibrillation, including rapid heart rate, dizziness, and fatigue, cutting back on coffee may reduce symptoms. It is also pointed out that there is.
Dr. Massimo Barbagallo, a researcher at Zurich University Hospital, said: “Regular consumption of coffee is known to improve cognitive performance in healthy people.”
“Atrial fibrillation, the most frequently occurring arrhythmia, is known to increase the risk of dementia on its own.”
“The question, therefore, is whether coffee can offset the increased risk of cognitive impairment in patients with atrial fibrillation.”
The Swiss Atrial Fibrillation Cohort Study (Swiss-AF) is following over 2,400 people in Switzerland diagnosed with AF.
Patients were enrolled between 2014 and 2017, completed several cognitive tests, and asked how many cups of caffeinated coffee they had consumed in the past 12 months, regardless of added sweeteners, cream, or flavors. reported. Cup sizes were not standardized.
In a new study, Dr. Barbagallo and his colleagues analyzed these cognitive assessments to see whether drinking coffee can avoid cognitive decline, a known risk of atrial fibrillation.
Because Alzheimer's disease and atrial fibrillation are associated with systemic inflammation, the researchers also analyzed inflammatory markers.
Overall, higher scores on cognitive tests were associated with higher coffee intake. Specifically, scores for processing speed, visuomotor coordination, and attention were significantly improved by 11% in coffee consumers compared to non-consumers.
People who drank the most coffee were calculated to have a cognitive age 6.7 years younger than those who drank the least.
Participants who drank five drinks a day had more than 20% lower inflammatory markers than those who drank less than one drink a day.
“There was a very clear and consistent 'dose-response' association between drinking more coffee and performance on several advanced cognitive tests,” said Professor Jürg Biel of the University of Zurich. ” he said.
“Inflammatory markers decreased with increasing coffee intake. This association remained even after accounting for variables such as age, gender, BMI, smoking status, physical activity, and stroke history.”
“Previous studies have shown that the protective effect of regular coffee consumption against cognitive decline in older adults may be due to caffeine and other active ingredients such as magnesium and vitamin B3 (niacin). It has been suggested that this may be due to coffee's role in reducing chemicals that cause inflammation.
of findings Published in American Heart Association Journal.
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massimo barbagallo others. Coffee intake correlates with improved cognitive performance in patients with a high incidence of stroke. American Heart Association Journalpublished online on December 14, 2024. doi: 10.1161/JAHA.124.034365
Steven Johnson, a research software enthusiast known for his nonfiction books, is constantly on the lookout for digital tools to enhance the creative process. When the rise of large-scale language models powering text-generating AI tools like ChatGPT caught his attention, he became intrigued by their implications for information organization. His articles on LLM in the New York Times attracted the interest of researchers at Google Labs, who approached him with a proposal to develop a digital research assistant. The result is NotebookLM, an AI-powered note-taking tool designed to organize and summarize information and answer questions. Johnson views it as a tool for enhancing understanding.
The productivity technology landscape is increasingly incorporating generative AI, with new and existing tools expected to offer features that streamline schedules, emails, and note-taking. Johnson, initially skeptical of such products, began to wonder if his workflow could benefit from AI enhancements. The NotebookLM platform, while warning of potential inaccuracies, differentiates itself from other text generators by only utilizing provided information. Users can create notebooks and upload various sources including PDFs, audio files, web links, and Google Docs.
NotebookLM enhances productivity by efficiently summarizing key points and extracting quotes. Its AI chat feature facilitates deeper interrogation of the material and quickly retrieving information. Johnson uses the tool for various projects, including his next book, finding it helpful in brainstorming ideas and structuring content. However, he notes drawbacks such as subjective summaries and the potential for AI-generated content to diverge from the original material.
NotebookLM aims to augment rather than replace cognitive functions, serving as a digital extension of memory and supporting creativity. The concept of a “second brain” resonates in productivity discussions, emphasizing the power of leveraging AI to handle lower-value tasks and freeing up time for more meaningful work. Other tools like Notion and Capacities offer diverse organizational features coupled with AI assistance, catering to different user preferences and workflow needs.
While AI-driven productivity tools like Reclaim.ai and Superhuman show promise in optimizing scheduling and email management, caution is advised in conflating busyness with productivity. Clear outcomes and emotional well-being play crucial roles in effective tool utilization. As AI continues to advance, the prospect of autonomous AI agents performing actions beyond mere chat interactions looms on the horizon, potentially transforming how we approach everyday tasks in the future.
There has been a debated stance that children below the age of three should have no screen time, but research indicates that digital technology can offer valuable opportunities for the development of young children.
The study, titled Toddlers, technology and talk, was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and conducted by researchers from Manchester Metropolitan University, Lancaster University, Queen’s Belfast University, Strathclyde University, and Swansea University. It explored children’s interactions with various technologies in diverse communities, specifically focusing on the impact of technology on language and literacy skills of children aged 0 to 3 in the UK.
The research delved into how children engage with technology, whether with their parents or independently, through activities like taking photos, playing games using educational apps, listening to music, discussing favorite characters, and video calling.
Studies have shown that children start using smart devices and technology at a young age, and this can be beneficial for their language development and other skills.
The report highlights that young children’s digital activities involve various forms of sensory exploration which contribute to their cognitive development.
Parents acknowledge the advantages of technology for their children’s development, but they are also concerned about potential negative impacts from excessive technology usage.
The report also discusses how video calls provide valuable opportunities for children in multilingual families to learn different languages and cultures from their overseas relatives.
The study involved surveys with 1,400 UK parents, 40 home case studies, interviews with 20 education experts, and analysis of families’ TV viewing habits. It revealed that children could learn words and phrases from watching TV shows that they were passionate about.
Furthermore, shared TV viewing and music listening create bonding experiences for parents and children, nurturing emotional connections over time.
Even in homes where the TV is on throughout the day, children engage in various play and learning activities and may not pay much attention to the TV.
Some parents reported that their children under the age of 3 were learning sign language online, showcasing how young children adapt to interacting with smart devices.
The report emphasizes the need for better protection of children’s privacy and security in the digital age and hopes to guide policy and practices based on its findings.
Professor Rosie Flewitt from MMU acknowledges the challenges of balancing the benefits of digital communication, play, and learning for children with concerns about potential risks of overuse.
FSeventeen seconds. According to , this was the average amount of time adults could focus on a screen in 2021. Research by Gloria Mark, Professor of Information Studies at the University of California. Twenty years ago, in 2004, this number was two and a half minutes.
Our attention spans, or the amount of time we can focus without distraction, are shrinking. Our focus, how intensely we can think about things, also suffers. The cause: Technology designed to demand our attention. We have endless tools for procrastination at our fingertips. Increased stress and anxiety disorders. And the quality of sleep is poor. But there is a solution. From quick-hit hacks to big lifestyle changes, we asked experts for tips on how to think seriously for the long term.
Find your “why”
Author and psychotherapist Eloise Skinner says that a strong sense of purpose “focuses our attention” and helps us avoid distractions. To find that purpose, Skinner recommends trying the “Five Whys” exercise developed by Japanese businessman and inventor Sakichi Toyoda in the 1930s. In this exercise, you consider why you want to do something until you find the core reason.
For example, at first you may wonder why you fill out a spreadsheet. The answer may be because your boss told you to do it. why? Because it’s part of your job. Ultimately, you get to your core “why,” which in this case might be “this job supports my family.” Write it down so you can get back to it when you feel like you’ve lost focus.
Let’s go for a morning walk
Exposure to natural light in the morning tells our brains to stop producing the sleep hormone melatonin and starts releasing hormones like cortisol, which increases our alertness.
In short, a morning walk can help you focus for the day, says Marian Taylor, sleep consultant and founder of Sleep Works. Taking these walks regularly can improve your concentration in the long run and establish a rhythm in which melatonin is released at the right time of the night, making it easier to fall asleep. “During sleep, our brains consolidate memories and process emotions,” Taylor says. “This ‘cognitive housekeeping’ allows us to wake up with a clearer mind each day.”
Sodium valproate is an effective drug for epilepsy, but its consumption is not recommended during pregnancy
Miljan Zivković/Shutterstock
The drug rapamycin may prevent the epilepsy drug sodium valproate from causing developmental problems during pregnancy.
Sodium valproate is used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and sometimes migraines. Although effective, it is not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause birth defects such as spina bifida and lifelong learning disabilities.
Giovanni Pietrogrande Researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia wanted to understand why sodium valproate could have such an effect. So they used stem cells to create mini-spinal cords called organoids in the lab. These mimic the spine of a fetus during early pregnancy.
When organoids were exposed to sodium valproate, their cells changed in ways that may be associated with risk of congenital disease.
The researchers looked for reasons for this and found that activity in one of the cell's signaling pathways, called mTOR, indicates that cells are aging. This is a process in which cells stop growing but do not die, but instead continue to release chemicals that can cause inflammation.
Rapamycin, which was initially developed as an immunosuppressant but has some promise for anti-aging effects, also targets the mTOR pathway.
In another experiment, researchers exposed a new set of spinal cord organoids to a combination of sodium valproate and rapamycin and found that no aging occurred. They then replicated this test in zebrafish larvae and found that the cells similarly did not undergo senescence and showed no signs of the changes that occur when exposed to sodium valproate alone.
Rather than doctors discontinuing sodium valproate if an epileptic patient is pregnant or may become pregnant, someday doctors may be able to prevent the negative effects of sodium valproate by combining it with rapamycin. Pietro Grande says. Human studies are needed to make this recommendation.
Frank Vajda The University of Melbourne says sodium valproate is “a critically important drug and the single most effective treatment for generalized seizures, where abnormal electrical activity begins in both halves of the brain at the same time.”
“I think this is a very important paper that could lead to a return to the level of importance that this drug had before its side effects were discovered,” he says.
BP, a major player in the oil and gas industry, has recently entered into a five-year partnership with Palantir, a US company specializing in spy technology, to utilize artificial intelligence in expediting engineering decision-making processes.
This collaboration entails the implementation of large-scale language models to automate the analysis of data collected from BP’s various sites, thereby generating recommendations that can assist human decision-makers in drawing informed conclusions.
The partnership between BP and Palantir builds upon a longstanding relationship that has involved the use of Palantir’s technology to create digital replicas of BP’s oil and gas operations, such as the Khazan gas field in Oman and offshore oil platforms in the North Sea and Gulf of Mexico, including the location of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon incident.
Both companies affirm that their previous collaboration has led to performance enhancements, and the new software aims to ensure the safe deployment of reliable AI while guarding against potential inaccuracies or fabrications commonly associated with generative AI models.
The utilization of generative AI is becoming increasingly prevalent across various industries, from retail interactions to research and writing support, sparking debates on whether AI will replace or enhance existing job roles.
Sanjay Pandey, BP’s senior vice president of digital delivery, highlighted the benefits of employing advanced digital twin simulation techniques to optimize production processes and enhance operational performance in a secure manner.
Palantir’s Matthew Babin expressed enthusiasm about the potential of their technology to accelerate human decision-making by leveraging existing digital twins and operational workflows.
Noteworthy projects of Palantir include a five-year contract to develop a large-scale data platform for the NHS, raising privacy concerns about patient data security. The company’s founder, Peter Thiel, has been associated with supporting political figures like Donald Trump and has a history of collaborating closely with intelligence and military organizations.
Under the leadership of Murray Auchincloss, BP has been actively enhancing its technological capabilities, as evidenced by recent agreements such as the partnership with NASA to exchange expertise gained from working in challenging environments.
Additionally, BP made an investment of $5m (£3.8m) in Belmont Technology in 2019 to accelerate its AI platform development.
It was this mystery that led botanist Kathy Willis on her latest mission. Former scientific director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, and now professor of biodiversity at St Edmund Hall, Oxford University, she says the discovery has changed her life. In her new book, Good NatureIn this article, she explores a growing body of research that illuminates what happens to our brains and bodies when we connect with nature. Though we tend to think of ourselves as a visual species, it turns out the benefits we derive from our other senses — smell, hearing, touch, and the mysterious “hidden senses” — are just as impressive, and sometimes even more so. There's still much to discover, but as she says, New ScientistWe have already learned many things that can improve our lives.
Kate Douglas: What happens when you observe nature?
Google states that nearly 66% of jobs in the UK could be “augmented” by AI, with only a small percentage of jobs at risk of complete elimination. The company emphasizes the importance of supporting workers to utilize AI technology to improve efficiency rather than fearing job loss.
Debbie Weinstein, managing director of Google UK, highlights the low adoption rate of AI tools in workplaces and emphasizes the need for people to feel confident and capable in using these technologies to unlock their full potential.
Research commissioned by Google from think tank Public First reveals that 61% of UK jobs will be significantly impacted by AI, with only 31% remaining unaffected by the technology. Certain industries like social care, transportation, and accommodation and food services, which involve complex physical labor, are less likely to be automated.
Public First estimates that only a few jobs will become obsolete due to AI, with the majority of jobs expected to be enhanced instead. Google has partnered with various organizations to introduce AI technologies in a way that enhances worker capabilities without replacing them.
The government is also supporting the adoption of AI across the economy to drive growth and provide new opportunities for workers. Minister for AI, Feriel Clarke MP, emphasizes the importance of AI skills training to help workers thrive in the changing job market.
Public First predicts that full adoption of AI over the next six years could bring significant economic benefits to the UK, with an annual growth rate of 2.6% driven by technology alone. Google claims that using generative AI could save the average UK worker 100 hours a year, marking the biggest improvement in productivity since the introduction of Google Search.
Despite some controversies surrounding AI tools like Gemini AI, Google continues to invest in AI products and features to enhance user experiences. The company aims to revamp Google search with AI Briefs, although this has faced criticism for potentially reducing traffic to publisher sites.
Utilizing artificial intelligence to analyze GP records for hidden patterns has significantly improved cancer detection rates for doctors.
The “C the Signs” AI tool used by general practitioner practices has increased cancer detection rates from 58.7% to 66.0%. This tool examines patients’ medical records, compiling past medical history, test results, prescriptions, treatments, and personal characteristics like age, postcode, and family history to indicate potential cancer risks.
Additionally, the tool prompts doctors to inquire about new symptoms and recommends tests or referrals for patients if it detects patterns suggesting a heightened risk of certain cancer types.
Currently in use in about 1,400 practices in England, “C the Signs” was tested in 35 practices in the East of England in May 2021, covering 420,000 patients.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, a study revealed that cancer detection rates rose from 58.7% to 66.0% by March 31, 2022, in clinics using the system, while remaining similar in those that did not utilize it.
Dr. Bea Bakshi, who developed “C the Signs” with colleague Miles Paling, emphasized the importance of early and quick cancer diagnosis through their system detecting over 50 types of cancer.
The tool was validated in a previous study analyzing 118,677 patients, where 7,295 were diagnosed with cancer and 7,056 were accurately identified by the algorithm.
Notably, the system’s ability to predict if a patient was unlikely to have cancer resulted in only 2.8% of these cases being confirmed with cancer diagnosis within six months.
Concerned by delays in cancer diagnosis, Bakshi developed the tool after witnessing a patient’s late pancreatic cancer diagnosis three weeks before their death, highlighting the importance of early detection.
“With two-thirds of deaths from untestable cancers, early diagnosis is crucial,” Bakshi emphasized.
In the UK, GPs follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines to decide when to refer patients for cancer diagnosis, guided by tools like “C the Signs.”
The NHS’s long-term cancer plan aims to diagnose 75% of cancers at stage 1 or 2 by 2028, utilizing innovative technologies like the Garelli blood test for early cancer detection.
Decision support systems like “C the Signs,” improving patient awareness of cancer symptoms, and enhancing access to diagnostic technologies are essential for effective cancer detection, according to healthcare professionals.
NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, Professor Peter Johnson, highlighted the progress in increasing early cancer diagnoses and access to timely treatments, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology for improved cancer care.
Lab-grown meat could potentially taste better thanks to aroma chemicals that activate when cooked and give off a meaty scent – or, if you prefer, coffee or potato.
Meat grown from cell cultures has already been produced in a variety of forms, such as steaks and meatballs, that resemble slaughtered meat, but matching the taste has proven harder: The flavor of traditional meat is too complex and unstable to withstand the lengthy lab process.
One of the key components of cooked meat's flavor is the Maillard reaction, named after the French chemist who discovered that temperatures between 140 and 165°C (280 and 330°F) give cooked foods their distinctive flavor. Jinkee Hong Researchers at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, say they have devised a way to simulate the Maillard reaction by adding “switchable flavour compounds” (SFCs) to a 3D gelatin-based hydrogel called a “scaffold” that remains stable during meat cultivation.
When heated to 150°C, the chemicals “switch on” and release flavors, making the cultured protein more palatable: “When we heated SFC, it actually tasted like meat,” Hong says, though he declined to confirm whether the team actually ate meat.
These SFCs can also be used to create different flavor profiles. For example, the researchers say they tested three compounds, which produced flavors that mimicked roasted meat, coffee, roasted nuts, onion and potatoes. “You can diversify and customize the flavor compounds released from the SFCs,” Hong says.
One big problem is that the chemicals involved are not currently considered safe for human consumption. “Because the materials and culture media have not been approved as edible materials, we cannot guarantee their safety,” Hong says. “However, our strategy can be applied to conventional edible materials and we believe it would be safer than the materials we used in this study.”
Johannes Le Couteur Researchers at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, said they were skeptical of the study for a number of reasons, including that the flavor tests primarily used electronic noses to evaluate chemicals released, rather than humans judging whether a scent was appetizing.
“This type of material cannot feed humans,” Le Coutur said. “While cell-based meat is a promising technology concept, this particular flavoring method will never be able to provide safe, sustainable protein to low- and moderate-income communities in need.”
Dr Bab Shergill is a consultant dermatologist specializing in skin cancer treatment and is a Fellow of the British Association of Dermatology. Here are his top nine skincare tips:
Less is more
Most people only need a basic cleanser, moisturizer, and possibly sunscreen if they are going outside.
Some skin types require additional care
There are around 3,000 different skin-related conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. If your skin is scaly, dry, and red, you may need a specific routine with moisturizers to hydrate the skin and short-term use of steroids to soothe inflammation.
Moisturizers do not hydrate the skin
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This is a common misconception: moisturizers work by creating a protective barrier and allowing moisture to move from deeper layers of the skin to the surface.
Need to know…
For most people, a basic cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen are sufficient.
Expensive products do not always mean better; look for key ingredients if you have specific needs.
To maintain healthy skin, eat well and limit alcohol consumption.
Expensive creams aren’t always better
There’s a psychological aspect to choosing expensive skincare products; sometimes we value them more because of their high price. However, if you have specific needs, it may be worth paying more for products with beneficial ingredients.
If you have brown spots known as “liver spots,” products containing vitamin B3 can be helpful.
Anti-aging creams are effective
Studies have shown that vitamin A-based compounds like retinol can reduce fine lines, boost collagen production, fade blemishes, and improve skin tone. Be cautious of using too much as it can cause irritation.
There is no difference between men’s and women’s skincare products
Aside from packaging and scent, there is no significant difference between products for men and women.
No need for separate day and night creams
If using a cream with retinol, consider applying it at night to avoid increased sun sensitivity.
read more A Scientist’s Guide to Life:
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Dehydration affects both your body and skin, so stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet. Foods rich in vitamins C and E can help combat damage from free radicals as antioxidants.
Consider your clothing choices
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat during sunny hours can protect your skin, especially for men with thinning hair on their scalp.
This article was first published on August 4, 2020
According to a bold study, women might excel at certain cognitive tasks during their menstrual period. New Research from University College London (UCL) and the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health (ISEH) sheds light on this phenomenon.
Published in the peer-reviewed journal Neuropsychology, this study is the first of its kind to explore sports-related cognition throughout different phases of the menstrual cycle.
The study involved 241 participants who underwent various cognitive tests simulating mental processes relevant in team sports, such as recognizing expressions, attention, reaction time, and spatial awareness.
Participants also used a menstrual cycle tracking app to determine their phase during the testing period.
Surprisingly, contrary to their expectations, participants demonstrated faster reaction times and lower error rates during their period. For instance, their timing accuracy during a task improved by 10 milliseconds on average (12%) compared to other times.
Lead study author Dr. Flaminia Ronca from UCL Department of Surgery and Interventional Science and ISEH noted that the findings challenge assumptions about women’s capabilities during menstruation.
Conversely, during the luteal phase, participants showed slightly slower reaction times but maintained consistent error rates.
The authors highlighted that even a small difference of 10 milliseconds could impact performance outcomes significantly.
Dr. Megan Lawley, another author of the study, emphasized the importance of further research in understanding how women’s cognitive abilities affect athletic performance at different menstrual cycle stages.
About the Experts
Flaminia Ronca: Associate Professor in the Department of Targeted Interventions at UCL, with research interests in body-brain interaction through movement.
Megan Lawley: Senior Sports Scientist specializing in female athlete health and previously involved in research on athlete performance factors at UK Sport and Bangor University.
A device that can convert infrared light into visible light
Laura Valencia Molina et al. 2024
Glasses coated with lithium compounds may one day help us see clearly in the dark.
For more than a decade, researchers have been searching for the best lightweight materials that can convert infrared light, invisible to the human eye, into visible light in order to provide an alternative to night-vision goggles, which are often heavy and cumbersome.
Until recently, the leading candidate was gallium arsenide. Laura Valencia Molina The researchers, from the Australian National University in Canberra, and their colleagues found that a film of lithium niobate coated with a lattice of silicon dioxide performed better.
“Through improved design and material properties, we have achieved a tenfold increase in the conversion rate from infrared to visible light compared to gallium arsenide films,” the team said. Maria del Rocio Camacho MoralesAt the Australian National University.
Through a series of experiments, the team demonstrated that the lithium niobate film could convert high-resolution images from infrared light with a wavelength of 1,550 nanometers to visible light with a wavelength of 550 nanometers, exceeding the capabilities of gallium arsenide.
Night vision goggles require infrared particles called photons to pass through a lens and be converted into electrons in a device called a photocathode. These electrons then pass through a phosphor screen to be converted into visible light photons. This entire process requires cryogenic cooling to prevent distortion of the image.
Molina says the lithium niobate film is hit by infrared light emitted by an object and illuminated with a laser at the same time. The film combines the infrared light with the laser light, which then up-converts the infrared light into visible light.
Camacho Morales says that one day, lattices of lithium niobate and silicon dioxide could be made into a film thinner than plastic wrap that could be coated over regular glasses to improve night vision.
While still in the research stage, the laser was positioned so that it could be easily shone onto the film along with infrared light emitted by the object, and the team is now experimenting with creating an array of nanolasers that can be positioned on top of the lithium niobate film.
The research is an important next step toward lightweight night-vision devices, and perhaps a film that can be attached to ordinary glasses, Camacho Morales said. It could also help drones navigate in the dark, he said, because current night-vision devices are too heavy to carry in some vehicles.
Google announced on Thursday that it is updating the summaries of search results generated by artificial intelligence. Check out their blog post here. The company acknowledged issues with the feature, such as providing strange or inaccurate answers, and plans to limit searches that return AI-generated summaries.
Liz Reid, Google’s head of search, stated that the company has implemented restrictions on the types of searches that trigger AI Overview results, specifically excluding satire or humorous content. Google has also addressed a few cases where AI Overviews violated content policies, which occurred in a small fraction of searches.
Google introduced the AI Overview feature in the US this month, but it quickly encountered problems with misinterpreting information and using sources like The Onion and Reddit for generating answers. This led to widespread mockery and the creation of memes highlighting the tool’s failures.
Despite Google’s initial promotion of the AI Overview feature as a key part of integrating artificial intelligence into its services, the company faced criticism due to its errors. This follows a previous incident earlier this year where Google’s AI tool inserted people of color into historical images incorrectly.
In a blog post, Google explained the issues with AI Overviews, attributing errors to missing information from rare or unusual searches. The company denies deliberately manipulating the feature to produce inaccurate results.
Despite some of the viral posts originating from quirky searches, there were also concerning examples, such as an AI-generated summary perpetuating a false conspiracy theory about Barack Obama. Google has made technical improvements to address these issues.
Experts in artificial intelligence point out that Google’s AI Overview issues are indicative of broader challenges, including the reliability of AI in assessing factual accuracy and the risks of automating access to information.
Google states that user feedback indicates satisfaction with search results thanks to the AI Summary feature, but the long-term effects of the company’s AI tool changes remain uncertain. Concerns have been raised by website owners about potential impacts on traffic and revenue, as well as researchers worried about Google’s increasing control over online information.
Chey Eye, a leader in distributed artificial intelligence infrastructure, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Big Energy Investments Inc., a Canadian company specializing in strategic investments in high-performance computing infrastructure. This acquisition is an important step in CeτiAI's strategy to advance the development and accessibility of AI technology.
Strategic acquisitions and enhancements
Following the acquisition, Big Energy Investments, Ltd. acquired an advanced high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure that included five HPC servers equipped with eight NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs and two NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand switches. We have reached a basic agreement to acquire it. These agreements are expected to be signed within the next week and underline our commitment to rapidly increasing our technological capabilities.
This strategic enhancement is critical to the initial deployment of the ceτi AI Infrastructure Network in North America, leveraging the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric to support decentralized AI networks, decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN), and Manages and provides computing resources to a variety of other applications. .
Strategic development and pilot implementation
The new HPC infrastructure will support the first North American deployment of the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric, which manages the ceτi AI Infrastructure Network. The network is designed to provide essential computing resources to a variety of decentralized client networks and is a key component of ceτi AI's broader mission to democratize AI technology through decentralization. The pilot implementation will not only demonstrate the capabilities of the ceτi AI solution, but will also begin revenue generation and accumulation for the CETI token ecosystem.
Roadmap and future plans
Successful integration and demonstration of this infrastructure will set the stage for immediate expansion to data center-scale implementations, significantly scaling up ceτi AI's operational capabilities. The development of the CETI token ecosystem continues and its introduction is the next major milestone in the ceτi AI roadmap.
executive insights
“This acquisition is an important milestone in ceτi AI’s growth trajectory and is consistent with our strategic objectives to strengthen our infrastructure and accelerate the development of decentralized AI technology. By combining our capabilities, we will be able to innovate and expand our reach across North America,” said Dennis Jarvis, CEO of ceτi AI.
Forward-looking statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding expected future events and anticipated results that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, final procurement and integration of HPC infrastructure, deployment and performance of the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric, and broader adoption and impact of the CETI token ecosystem. Actual results and results may differ materially from those expressed or anticipated in such forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors.
About ceτi AI
Chey Eye is at the forefront of revolutionizing artificial intelligence through decentralization. cτi AI is committed to innovation and accessibility, developing a globally distributed, high-performance, scalable AI infrastructure designed to empower developers and networks around the world. ceτi AI aims to accelerate the advancement of AI technology by democratizing access to cutting-edge resources, making it more diverse and accessible to everyone. Our mission is not limited to infrastructure development. We are building the foundation for the future of AI, allowing it to grow in ways that benefit all of humanity without sacrificing freedom of choice and expression.
Users can learn more about our mission, technology, and the future we're building, along with the latest updates and community discussions, by visiting:
Chey Eye, a leader in distributed artificial intelligence infrastructure, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Big Energy Investments Inc., a Canadian company specializing in strategic investments in high-performance computing infrastructure. This acquisition is an important step in CeτiAI's strategy to advance the development and accessibility of AI technology.
Strategic acquisitions and enhancements
Following the acquisition, Big Energy Investments, Ltd. has an advanced high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure that includes five HPC servers equipped with eight NVIDIA H100 Tensor Core GPUs and two NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand switches. We have reached a basic agreement to acquire it. These agreements are expected to be signed within the next week and underline our commitment to rapidly increasing our technological capabilities.
This strategic enhancement is critical to the initial deployment of the ceτi AI Infrastructure Network in North America, leveraging the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric to support decentralized AI networks, decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN), and Manages and provides computing resources to a variety of other applications. .
Strategic development and pilot implementation
The new HPC infrastructure will support the first North American deployment of the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric, which manages the ceτi AI Infrastructure Network. The network is designed to provide essential computing resources to a variety of decentralized client networks and is a key component of ceτi AI's broader mission to democratize AI technology through decentralization. The pilot implementation will not only demonstrate the capabilities of the ceτi AI solution, but will also begin revenue generation and accumulation for the CETI token ecosystem.
Roadmap and future plans
Successful integration and demonstration of this infrastructure will set the stage for immediate expansion to data center-scale implementations, significantly scaling up ceτi AI's operational capabilities. The development of the CETI token ecosystem continues and its introduction is the next major milestone in the ceτi AI roadmap.
executive insights
“This acquisition is an important milestone in ceτi AI's growth trajectory and is consistent with our strategic objectives to strengthen our infrastructure and accelerate the development of decentralized AI technology. Big Energy Investments' resources and By combining our capabilities, we will be able to innovate and expand our reach across North America,” said Dennis Jarvis, CEO of ceτi AI.
Forward-looking statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding expected future events and anticipated results that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, final procurement and integration of HPC infrastructure, deployment and performance of the ceτi AI Intelligent Computing Fabric, and broader adoption and impact of the CETI token ecosystem. Actual results and results may differ materially from those expressed or anticipated in such forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors.
About ceτi AI
Chey Eye is at the forefront of revolutionizing artificial intelligence through decentralization. ceτi AI is committed to innovation and accessibility, developing a globally distributed, high-performance, scalable AI infrastructure designed to empower developers and networks around the world. ceτi AI aims to accelerate the advancement of AI technology by democratizing access to cutting-edge resources, making it more diverse and accessible to everyone. Our mission is not limited to infrastructure development. We are building the foundation for the future of AI, allowing it to grow in ways that benefit all of humanity without sacrificing freedom of choice and expression.
Users can learn more about our mission, technology, and the future we're building, along with the latest updates and community discussions, by visiting:
Observing how people effectively communicate during office meetings or social events can be truly enlightening. Have you ever encountered a super communicator who effortlessly engages in conversations while listening attentively?
Fortunately, effective communication skills can be developed with practice. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Charles Duhigg, author of Super Communicator: How to unlock the secret language of connection, shares valuable insights on enhancing conversation skills for everyone.
Ask Deep Questions
Intriguingly, super communicators tend to ask significantly more questions than average individuals. They often pose deep questions that encourage meaningful discussions about values, beliefs, and experiences. Asking someone about their profession can lead to profound insights about their motivations and perspectives.
Listening Actively
Active listening is crucial in effective communication. When engaging in deep conversations, it is essential to not only listen but also demonstrate understanding through follow-up questions. This technique, known as looping for understanding, shows the other person that their words are valued and respected.
Be Authentic
Genuineness is essential in communication. Authenticity fosters mutual trust and vulnerability in conversations. By asking deep questions, actively listening, and sharing personal experiences, individuals can establish authentic connections that transcend superficial interactions.
Establish a Connection
At its core, conversation is about connecting with others. When engaged in dialogue, the neural activity of individuals becomes synchronized, reflecting a deep sense of connection. Communication allows individuals to share thoughts and emotions, fostering understanding and empathy.
About Our Expert Charles Duhigg
Charles Duhigg is a renowned journalist and author of several best-selling books, including The Power of Habit and Smarter, Faster, Better. In his book Super Communicator, he delves into the art of effective communication and building meaningful connections.
He has also made notable contributions to various media outlets, such as This American Life and NPR, showcasing his expertise in communication and storytelling.
The political landscape of AI regulation became clearer when an influential Labor think tank outlined a framework for addressing the issue in the party’s manifesto.
From our story:
The policy paper, created by center-left think tank Labor Together, suggests banning specialized nudity tools that enable users to create explicit content from real images.
It also calls for developers of general AI tools and web hosting companies to take measures to prevent the creation of such harmful deepfakes.
While Labor’s proposals are not yet official party policy, they highlight the issues that Westminster technocrats believe they can rally around. (Shadow technology minister Peter Kyle has expressed interest in the proposals.)
For years, technology in the UK has been politically neutral, with all parties agreeing on the importance of supporting British technology for growth and influence. However, there have been limited efforts to go beyond this consensus.
Even as concerns about technology regulation grew, especially with the introduction of the Online Safety Act under Theresa May’s government, the debate remained technocratic rather than principled or partisan. The Labor Party pushed for specific amendments to the bill, which eventually passed without significant opposition.
The most notable opposition to the bill came from within the Conservative Party, with one faction attempting to ban acts that they deemed as “hurtful.” This was partially due to provisions in the bill aimed at replacing the outdated “malicious communications” offense with more specific crimes.
However, the current proposals by Labor, such as banning nudity tools, may face opposition from the Conservatives, showcasing the differing concerns of the two parties on AI issues. While the Conservative Party, led by Rishi Sunak, focuses on existential risks from Silicon Valley, Labor is more concerned with exploitation risks.
“MrDeepFakes does not represent technology”
Security China’s AI robot booth. Photo: Florence Lo/Reuters
In discussing this article with authors Kirsty Innes and Laurel Boxall, the expected disagreement was notable. “Analog conservatives lack rapid response in this area. They view AI as a ‘mutant algorithm’ or a Silicon Valley novelty that can be scaled without regard for its impact on workers,” said Innes. “It took seven years to pass the Online Safety Act through Congress, but the world has changed since then.”
“We need to move beyond the dichotomy of supporting innovation versus protecting public interest – government versus business,” added Innes. “Most tech companies want their tools used for positive purposes. They recognize the issue, but MrDeepFakes does not represent the tech industry. Therefore, they are likely to support us on this matter.”
The policy document also suggests more flexible regulations for various technology sectors supporting AI. Web hosts, search engines, and payment platforms would be required to prevent the creation of “harmful deepfakes” under threat of fines from Ofcom. Critics may argue that such policies could stifle innovation, potentially leading platforms to ban all deepfake tools deemed “harmful.”
According to a survey by Control AI, the UK public overwhelmingly supports a ban on deepfakes, with 86% expressing their approval – higher than in other countries like Italy (74%).
Deepfakes, “cheapfakes” and AI elections – join us live
Real news vs. fake news: Is AI a threat to democracy? Composite: Guardian/Getty Images
Another proposal in the paper suggests that major political parties abstain from using AI to create misleading content in their campaigns for the next nine months, as a pledge. However, the feasibility and sustainability of such a commitment amidst the UK’s political environment remain uncertain.
I’ll be hosting a Guardian Live event next month on the impact of AI on elections, where experts like Katie Harvath from Anchor Change and Imran Ahmed from the Center to Counter Digital Hate will discuss the implications of generative AI on the electoral process involving 2 billion voters.
While deepfakes and AI-generated misinformation are expected to play a role in campaigns, the extent to which they will be used remains uncertain. Are fake images and videos a significant shift in misinformation, or are they a continuation of existing deceptive practices?
What concerns me more is how new technologies will impact an already fragile public sphere. With social media platforms making changes, the direction of political discourse is unclear. Where are conversations headed, and how will campaigning evolve in this changing landscape?
Robotics
A humanoid robot from robot AI company Figure will do laundry for you. Photo: Figure.ai
I don’t usually share YouTube videos, but Figure’s latest demo is too cool to miss. Watch the video.
Although prediction season is over, I predict that chatbots in 2022 will be like robots in 2024.
Robotics, historically challenging and costly, is being revolutionized by advances in AI. Training systems in simulated environments, enabling natural language commands, and controlling physical bodies may lead to rapid progress akin to that seen in large-scale language models in recent years.
It appears that this transformation is already underway.
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Owning a dog can bring happiness, but recent research suggests that spending time with your furry friend can also have a positive impact on your brain function, enhancing focus and creativity.
Various studies have explored the connection between mood, hormone levels, and interactions with dogs. This new study delved deeper by using electroencephalography (EEG) scans to monitor brain activity while participants engaged with their dogs, resulting in unexpected findings.
During the study, participants interacted with a trained 4-year-old poodle that had a “compatible personality.” Researchers from Konkuk University in South Korea found that participants experienced increased brain wave activity when engaging with the dogs. The study, published in the journal Pro Swan, involved 30 participants who performed various activities with the poodles.
The researchers noted that activities like walking or playing with the dogs strengthened alpha-band brain wave oscillations, indicating a state of relaxation. On the other hand, activities such as grooming and gentle massages led to increased beta-band vibrations, associated with improved concentration.
Even participants without pets experienced these benefits, suggesting that interacting with dogs can positively impact brain activity regardless of pet ownership. However, it’s worth considering that the participants likely had an existing interest in dogs, potentially influencing the results.
Researchers hope this study will spark further investigation into using service dogs to provide physiological benefits like reducing anxiety in various environments. They see potential for animal-assisted interventions to improve well-being in places like hospitals and schools.
“This study offers valuable insights into the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of animal-assisted interventions,” stated the researchers.
Road Town, British Virgin Islands, March 13, 2024, Chainwire
riff 3 (LIF3/USD)(LIF3/USDt) an innovative multi-chain DeFi Layer-1 Ecosystem The company, which operates on Ethereum, Polygon, BNB Chain, and Phantom, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with. bitgo, an industry-leading secure and qualified institutional custodian. This collaboration represents a major step forward in securing and democratizing access to blockchain technology for users around the world. riff3.com Leverages BitGo’s pioneering multi-signature technology for custody transactions and cold storage. Lif3 token, L share token, and L3USD.
“We are excited to support Lif3’s goal of increasing access to DeFi with our industry-leading secure custody solution. This partnership will allow Lif3 users to feel secure and confidently participate in the DeFi ecosystem. Become.” mike belsheCEO of bitgo.
“This strategic partnership not only strengthens the security of digital assets for institutional customers, but also instills new confidence in secure storage and transaction capabilities within the Lif3 ecosystem, creating a new gold standard for asset protection in the DeFi space. As a supporter of the LIF3 ecosystem, I am very excited to leverage BitGo's renowned multi-signature authority custody solution to fully protect its core assets. By partnering with BitGo, recognized as the industry standard for security, we are able to leverage BitGo's cutting-edge cold storage technology to provide an innovative and unparalleled layer of security for Lif3 tokens, LSHARE tokens, and L3USD. It will be. My relationship with BitGo spans over 10 years, I've been using their products since 2013, and their product offerings have evolved from, for example, protecting Bitcoin to creating Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC). I've been doing it. “It was an easy decision for him to choose BitGo to protect the Lif3 ecosystem.” Harry YehManaging Director quantum fintech group.
This partnership supports Lif3's vision of a simpler, more secure, and more interactive user experience, and facilitates seamless consumer DeFi acquisition through .riff 3 walletYou can download it from “. app store and google play.
This BitGo announcement Lif3’s recent Ethereum migration announcement strategic partnership with layer zerois an alliance designed to address the challenges associated with token bridging for a more secure and efficient blockchain experience.
riff3.com And that “Riff 3 Wallet” continues to be an interesting platform for those investing in the future of decentralized finance and blockchain technology. With a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, Lif3 has established itself as a frontrunner in shaping the future landscape of the digital economy, and through the Lif3 mobile app, a one-stop solution for adoption, investment, and trading, Lif3 We are realizing our vision of breaking down barriers to adoption. , earn money, play games, and off-ramp.
About Lif3.com
Lif3.com is a complete omnichain DeFi ecosystem that includes carefully selected layer 1 blockchains and self-custodial wallets. ‘Lif3 Wallet’ is available on the App Store and Google Play – Unlocking the potential of Web3 through consumer DeFi, iGaming and entertainment sectors
LIF3
LIF3 (LIF3) is an ERC-20 token that powers the LIF3 ecosystem, providing a comprehensive suite of features for managing digital assets across multiple blockchains while allowing users to benefit from staking. Offers. To access $LIF3 on Bitfinex, please visit: https://trading.bitfinex.com/t/LIF3:UST – The API symbol for LIF3 is LIFIII. bitfinex
Founded in 2013, BitGo is a leading provider of secure digital asset wallet solutions, offering institutional-grade custody, staking, trading, and core wallet infrastructure. Notably, the company pioneered multi-signature wallets and launched BitGo Trust Company, the first certified custodian of digital assets, in 2018.with $250 million insurance policy, SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 certification, and strict regulatory compliance, BitGo guarantees high standards of security and confidentiality. BitGo has expanded its services and introduced his institutional-level DeFi, NFT, Web3 products, and the Go Network. In 2023, the company secured $100 million in Series C funding, giving it a company value of $1.75 billion. BitGo supports over 700 digital assets, processes 20% of on-chain Bitcoin transactions, and serves his over 1,500 institutional customers in 50 countries.
Disclaimer
Custody services are provided through BitGo Trust Company, a South Dakota chartered trust company. BitGo is not registered with the SEC and does not provide legal, tax, investment, or other advice. Please consult your legal/tax/investment professional with any questions regarding your specific situation.
About Quantum Fintech Group
Quantum Fintech Group is a private investment group founded in 2020 that focuses on providing superior returns in the alternative asset space with a particular focus on blockchain investments.
SAs historic legislation obtained enough votes to pass in the U.S. Senate, divisions among online child safety advocates have emerged. Some former opponents of the bill have been swayed by amendments and now lend their support. However, its staunchest critics are demanding further changes.
The Kids Online Safety Act (Kosa), introduced over two years ago, garnered 60 supporters in the Senate by mid-February. Despite this, numerous human rights groups continue to vehemently oppose the bill, highlighting the ongoing discord among experts, legislators, and activists over how to ensure the safety of young people in the digital realm.
“The Kids Online Safety Act presents our best chance to tackle the harmful business model of social media, which has resulted in the loss of far too many young lives and contributed to a mental health crisis,” stated Josh Golin, executive director of Fair, a children’s online safety organization.
Critics argue that the amendments made to the bill do not sufficiently address their concerns. Aliya Bhatia, a policy analyst at the Center for Democratic Technology, expressed, “A one-size-fits-all approach to child safety is insufficient in protecting children. This bill operates on the assumption of a consensus regarding harmful content types and designs, which does not exist. Such a belief hampers the ability of young people to freely engage online, impeding their access to the necessary communities.”
What is the Kids Online Safety Act?
The Xhosa bill, spearheaded by Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal and Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn, represents a monumental shift in U.S. tech legislation. The bill mandates platforms like Instagram and TikTok to mitigate online risks through alterations to their designs and the ability to opt out of algorithm-based recommendations. Enforcement would necessitate more profound changes to social networks compared to current regulations.
Initially introduced in 2022, the bill elicited an open letter signed by over 90 human rights organizations vehemently opposing it. The coalition argued that the bill could enable conservative state attorneys general, who determine harmful content, to restrict online resources and information concerning LGBTQ+ youth and individuals seeking reproductive health care. They cautioned that the bill could potentially be exploited for censorship.
Microbes appear to influence how well tea plants absorb nutrients
Artur Szymczyk/Alamy
Tweaking the microbial community at the base of the tea plant could make your favorite tea taste even better.
Just as the bacteria that live in our guts influence our health, the microbes that live in and around plant roots play a role in how plants absorb nutrients from the soil. Masu. But little is known about their effects on tea flavor and nutritional content, he says. Yang Zhenbiao At the University of California, Riverside.
To learn more, Yang and his colleagues collected and analyzed tea plants (Camellia sinensis) is grown in Fujian Province, China. Researchers found that certain soil microorganisms are involved in increased nitrogen uptake, which increases the production of a chemical called theanine in plant roots, resulting in increased production of a chemical called theanine, especially in the leaves of a variety called Roguey. It turns out that the level has increased.
Theanine adds a rich flavor to beer, and the amount of theanine contained is considered an important indicator of the quality of tea. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can counteract the stimulant effects of caffeine, Yang says.
In the next step of the study, the researchers extracted the 21 most beneficial microorganisms for theanine from the soil and generated a custom microbial community. Its composition was very similar to that found naturally around Logi.
When this mixture was applied to the roots of other types of tea plants, theanine levels were increased even in the roots of tea plants grown in nitrogen-poor soils. “Not only does it have great health benefits, but it also improves the sweetness and flavor of the tea,” says Yang.
The research team hopes that the customized microbial community could be used in the future to perfect the quality of tea and improve the nutritional value of other plants such as rice.
“Improving nitrogen absorption efficiency can also reduce dependence on fertilizers, which could also have a major impact on the future of agriculture,” says Yang.
Philip LeDuc and others/Carnegie Mellon University
Complex artificial organs can be created by 3D printing molds of veins, arteries, and capillaries in ice, casting them in organic materials, and melting the ice to form delicate, hollow networks. This leaves space for the complex vascular grafts required for the development of laboratory-cultured internal organs.
Researchers have been working for decades to develop artificial organs to meet the high global demand for transplants such as hearts, kidneys and livers. However, creating the vascular network necessary to keep them alive remains a challenge.
Existing technology can grow artificial skin and ears, but the meat and organ materials disappear when they are more than 200 micrometers away from blood vessels. Philippe Leduc at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania.
“It's about twice the width of a hair. Once you get through that, and you can't access nutrients anymore, your cells start dying,” he says. Therefore, new processes will be needed to produce internal organs cheaply and quickly.
LeDuc and his colleagues experimented with printing blood vessels with meltable wax, which requires fairly high temperatures and can leave behind residue. “One day, out of the blue, a student of mine said, 'What if we tried using water, the most biologically compatible substance in the world?'” he says. “And I'm like, 'Oh, yeah.' It still makes me laugh. It's that simple.”
They developed a technique that uses a 3D printer to create a mold of the inside of an organ's blood vessels in ice. In the test, they embedded them in a gelatin material that hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light before the ice melts away.
The researchers used a platform cooled to -35°C and a printer nozzle that ejected hundreds of drops of water per second, allowing them to print structures as small as 50 micrometers in diameter.
LeDuc says the process is conceptually simple, but requires complete coordination. If the droplet is ejected too quickly, the droplet will not solidify quickly enough to create the desired shape, but if it prints too slowly, it will just form a clump.
The system is also affected by weather and humidity, so researchers are looking into using artificial intelligence to adjust the printer to different conditions.
They also used a version of water in which all the hydrogen was replaced with deuterium, a stable isotope of the element. This so-called heavy water has a high freezing point and helps create a smooth structure by avoiding unwanted crystallization. Deuterium is not radioactive, unlike some isotopes, and tests have shown it to be safe for creating artificial organs, LeDuc said.
This direct air recovery system can extract carbon dioxide from the air and reuse it later, but it requires a lot of energy.
Orjan Ellingvorg / Alamy
Photosensitive molecules called photoacids have the potential to make the process of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere more energy efficient. Researchers are currently devising ways to make photoacids more practical.
This can be particularly beneficial for direct air capture (DAC) systems, which blow air over carbon-trapping materials called adsorbents. Existing systems require large amounts of energy to separate pure CO2 from the adsorbent for storage or use elsewhere. This is a major barrier to using DAC to remove billions of tons of CO2 from the atmosphere each year. “Every step I take is hitting a wall,” he says. Anna de Vries At ETH Zurich, Switzerland. “Direct air recovery companies everywhere are struggling and trying to create the most efficient process.”
Adding photoacid to the adsorbent may be effective. When exposed to light, each photoacid molecule changes shape and releases protons, making the solution more acidic. This “pH swing” releases CO2 from the adsorbent and photoacid mixture. When the light is turned off again, the photoacid and pH of the solution return to normal, allowing the adsorbent to absorb CO2 again. This cycle can then be repeated.
Typically, heat or pressure is used to release CO2, but using sunlight or lamps could potentially reduce the energy needed for this step, with the aim of halving the energy requirements of DACs. de Vries says. However, photoacids tend to be unstable and are not very soluble in water, which limits their efficiency in releasing CO2.
De Vries and colleagues added various solvents to the photoacid solution; found the mix This increases the solubility of the photoacid and extends its lifetime from just a few hours to nearly a month.
In another approach, Ubinduni Premadasa Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee and colleagues found Another photoacid, which can remain responsive to light for longer and produce more acid, allows CO2 to be released from solution more efficiently.
greg match Researchers at the University of Newcastle in the UK say these are an “elegant and innovative” solution. But larger systems can face challenges, such as loss of solvent through evaporation in the air, he says.
Although these researchers focused on capturing CO2 from the atmosphere, the first large-scale tests on photoacids may be conducted in water. A Washington state startup called Banyu Carbon uses photoacids to separate CO2 from seawater and plans to install a system capable of removing one tonne of CO2 per year in 2024.
In this system, when photoacids are exposed to light, the resulting acidity is temporarily transferred to seawater, and CO2 absorbed from the atmosphere is released from seawater. alex gagnonAccording to the company's co-founders, this reduces the energy needed to separate the CO2 and eliminates the need to power fans.
In an attempt to ignite fading consumer interest, Samsung is heavily emphasizing AI technology for its latest premium S24 Android phone. This includes instant phone translation, new Google search, and advanced image and video editing features.
The Galaxy S24 series was announced at an event in California and is led by the largest and most expensive titanium-clad Ultra. It features the latest Qualcomm chip, brightest screen and most powerful camera. However, in a change for the dominant Korean company, hardware updates are taking a backseat to flashy features that leverage the new Galaxy AI branding.
Many of its additions, including the use of the Android maker’s Gemini AI model, keep it competitive with products such as Google’s Pixel series. Samsung’s new Live Translate feature enables real-time two-way phone, voice, and text conversations between 13 different languages, similar to what Google Translate offers, and its “Chat Assist” allows for simple spelling. Additionally, it helps ensure message tone and grammar are appropriate.
Display with a variety of Samsung smartphones with AI-powered features. Photo: Jennifer Dudley Nicholson/AAP
The phone’s video and photo editing features are packed with generative AI technology, including regular object, background removal, and image retouching. The AI can create instant slow-motion videos from regular videos by generating additional frames that slow down the action. Samsung’s image editor will add watermarks and metadata to AI-altered content, a move widely welcomed by analysts.
Ben Wood, principal analyst at CCS Insight, said: “The Galaxy S24 series of devices, along with Google’s Pixel series, mark the dawn of the consumerization of AI in smartphones. This means that all smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, are adding AI-powered features to their new devices.”
Google has partnered with Samsung to bring new ways for Google to: Search by circle, which will launch on January 31st on select Android devices including the S24 and Pixel 8 series. Users simply press the home button or gesture bar, circle what they want to search for on the screen, and Google’s AI does the rest.
Samsung has also partnered with Google to provide seven years of software support to help users use their new phone for longer and more safely. The S24’s construction includes a wider variety of designs to soften its impact on the environment, using tons of recycled materials.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Photo: Jennifer Dudley Nicholson/AAP
Samsung is aiming to boost mobile phone sales through its AI efforts, as it recently lost its top spot in the mobile phone market to Apple for the first time in 12 years. Analysts believe Samsung’s sales growth will depend largely on its ability to effectively market its mobile phone to raise awareness and break consumer apathy.
Samsung has a nine-month window to regain leadership in the premium segment, especially in its biggest markets, the US and China, before the expected launch of Apple’s next-generation iPhone in September.
President Joe Biden’s administration has announced $623 million in funding to increase electric vehicle charging points in the U.S. amid concerns that the transition to zero-carbon transportation is not keeping pace with goals to tackle the climate crisis.
The money will be distributed as grants to dozens of programs across 22 states, including EV chargers for multifamily housing in New Jersey, fast chargers in Oregon, and hydrogen fuel chargers for cargo trucks in Texas. In total, funds pulled from the bipartisan infrastructure law are expected to add his 7,500 chargers across the United States.
“We’re building the charging network to win the EV race,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.
“The electric vehicle revolution is not coming, it is here. I very personally recognize the importance of the fact that America led the world in the automobile revolution. We’re in the middle of a second automotive revolution, and it’s important that America has one again.”
There are about 170,000 electric vehicle chargers in the U.S., a significant increase from a network that was nearly invisible before Biden took office, and the White House is helping the transition away from gasoline and diesel vehicles. The company has set a goal of selling 500,000 chargers.
Biden’s climate change adviser, Ali Zaidi, said that “America is leading the way globally on electric vehicles” and that the U.S. is on track to “meet and exceed” the administration’s charger goals. He said there was. He added: “This expansion will continue over the coming years and decades until we reach net zero in the transport sector.”
Sales of electric vehicles are growing in the United States, with more than 1 million EVs sold for the first time last year, accounting for 9% of all car sales. But that rate of growth has slowed somewhat, with companies like Ford, General Motors and even Tesla scaling back their EV ambitions in recent months.
U.S. motorists are faced with an ever-expanding selection of EVs, but most are still more expensive than their gasoline equivalents, meaning they are out of reach for many buyers. research has discovered The median household income for EV buyers is $186,000.
Research shows that nearly one-third of potential EV buyers discount their purchase due to lack of charging infrastructure, despite accounting for most of the total vehicle trips in the United States. Masu. 3 miles or less. Even if Biden’s goal of 500,000 chargers is met, this is far fewer than is needed to support a gradual transition away from polluting cars. Estimate It is predicted that more than 28 million chargers will be needed by 2030.
“In the U.S., EV penetration is growing at almost twice the rate of charger installations,” said Brent Gruber, executive director of J.D. Power’s electric vehicle business. said last year. “Construction of new charging stations is not keeping up with demand.”
Earlier this week, the Environmental Protection Agency announced nearly $1 billion in grants to replace diesel-powered school buses with electric and low-emission vehicles. EPA will disburse the funds to 280 school districts serving 7 million children nationwide. Charging infrastructure is also an issue in efforts to phase out diesel buses.
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