When scientists analyze complex human diseases, such as cancer, a crucial step involves comparing the DNA sequence of a diseased individual to a reference genome from a healthy individual. This analysis helps identify genetic variations that may contribute to the disease, enabling researchers to accurately categorize the illness and understand its treatment responses.
Since the year 2000, the standard human reference genome has been incomplete, limiting researchers’ ability to access certain challenging genomic regions. This resulted in false positives, complicating the identification of true genetic variants responsible for tumor growth.
In 2022, the Society of Scientists announced a groundbreaking achievement: the first truly complete human genome, generated using advanced technology that minimizes fragmentation. This development has prompted extensive research into the benefits of utilizing new genomes in the study of complex genetic diseases, including cancer.
Researchers based in Canada and the United States proposed that employing the complete human genome could enhance the detection of structural variants, allowing for more accurate cancer diagnosis compared to traditional reference genomes. This analogy likens genomic mutations to missing or altered paragraphs in a textbook; structural mutations can lead to cancer by duplicating oncogenes, causing abnormal gene fusions, and inactivating tumor-suppressor genes.
To validate their hypothesis, researchers utilized established cancer cell models, specifically cancer cell lines alongside the cancer-free control known as COLO829. This particular cell line serves as a benchmark for evaluating new mutation detection methods. They analyzed multiple samples of the COLO829 cell line sequenced by different laboratories, as well as tumor samples from patients diagnosed with blood cancer, brain cancer, and ovarian cancer, thereby ensuring a real-world context for their findings.
The complete human reference genome incorporates approximately 200 million additional base pairs, effectively filling in gaps and rectifying missing regions from the previous standard. When the COLO829 sample was examined, the number of structural variants incorrectly identified using the outdated reference genome significantly decreased, from 225 to just 83 with the new genome. This advancement greatly enhances our capability to detect structural variations.
The research team noted that while the new human reference genome improves the precision of DNA change identification, it contains less labeled medical information compared to the older genome. To address this, they employed a tool called Levio SAM2 to align results from new and previous genomes, thereby combining the enhanced accuracy of new genomes with the extensive medical knowledge of older references, yielding optimal results.
The team applied this integrated approach to three patient samples and discovered that the number of cancer-specific mutation candidates needing manual clinical review was significantly reduced compared to using traditional reference genomes. This reduction streamlines the labor-intensive process of identifying true cancer-causing mutations, with one large variant, 609,000 base pairs in length, identified in a patient’s sample. This variant exhibited minimal signals in the old reference genome but displayed clear evidence in the new genome.
In conclusion, the researchers’ approach enhances structural mutation detection in cancer by minimizing false positives, allowing physicians to prioritize clinically significant mutations. They emphasized that lowering false positives is crucial in analyzing patient samples, and filtering out spurious mutations to isolate genuine cancer drivers requires considerable time and expertise. Although their liftover strategy increased analysis time by approximately 50% compared to solely using the old reference genome, researchers deemed this trade-off acceptable due to the considerable improvements in accuracy.
Fighter pilots in training are leveraging AI technology to read their brainwaves while flying in virtual reality simulations. This innovative approach helps assess task difficulty and adjust complexity in real-time, offering a more personalized training experience. Recent experiments revealed that trainee pilots prefer this adaptive training system over traditional, static methods, although it hasn’t demonstrated a measurable improvement in skills.
Utilizing simulators and virtual reality platforms for pilot training is not only more cost-effective but also significantly safer than real-world flight exercises. However, it’s crucial that these educational scenarios are dynamically fine-tuned to balance comfort and cognitive load effectively.
Evi van Weerden, a researcher at the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Center in Amsterdam, has spearheaded this initiative by utilizing a brain-computer interface to read student pilots’ brainwaves through electrodes attached to their scalps. The AI analyzes this data to assess the difficulty levels of tasks pilots encounter.
“We are continually striving to enhance pilot training. It may sound like science fiction, but for me, as I analyze the data, it feels quite normal,” Van Weerden states.
A total of 15 Dutch Air Force pilots participated in the experiment, where the system calibrated between five distinct difficulty levels by adjusting visibility within the simulation based on the AI’s assessment of task complexity.
Post-training interviews revealed that while none of the pilots reported noticing real-time adjustments in difficulty, 10 out of the 15 pilots expressed a preference for the adaptive tests over preprogrammed exercises that incrementally increased in difficulty. Nevertheless, it’s noteworthy that pilots displayed no significant improvement in task performance when compared to traditional training methods. In essence, while pilots appreciated the mind-reading technology, it did not enhance their skill levels.
This discrepancy may stem from the individual differences in brain function, as Van Weerden explains. The AI model was initially trained on data from a separate cohort of novice pilots and subsequently applied to the 15 study participants. Implementing AI systems that accurately analyze brainwaves across varied populations remains a challenge. Notably, six pilots exhibited minimal variation in perceived difficulty, suggesting the AI may not have accurately interpreted their brain data.
Dr. James Blundell from Cranfield University in the UK highlighted that similar technologies are being explored for use in live aircraft to enhance pilot operation safety. “We’re investigating the ability to detect panic responses and creating interventions to help pilots regain control and composure during challenging situations,” Blundell explains. For instance, should a pilot find themselves inverted, the technology could provide critical information to enable a return to stable flight.
While promising progress has been made in isolated scenarios, the question of whether brain-reading technology can be effectively harnessed to bolster aviation safety remains unanswered. “There is still a considerable journey ahead to realize this potential,” concludes Blundell.
Biologist George Church Curates Beneficial Genetic Variants
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“Why should only tall people have access to tall genes? And why should only intelligent people have access to smart genes? Instead of accepting genetic inequality, we aim to provide everyone the opportunity to select beneficial genes for themselves and their future offspring. Genetics should not be a game of chance.”
This is the vision of Bootstrap Bio, a startup striving to empower future parents by enhancing genetic qualities for their children. While it seems that affluent families might already have genetic advantages, the pressing question remains: Can we genuinely enhance our children’s genetics if we choose to?
To understand the possibilities, I began with the List of Protective and Enhanced Gene Variants, curated by Harvard biologist George Church. When I inquired about the list’s purpose, Church explained that it addresses common questions from his lectures—such as whether all rare genetic variants are detrimental and what types of enhancements might be feasible. This list is particularly popular among transhumanists interested in genetic engineering for superhuman traits.
Let’s delve into its details.
Are You Sure You Want Extra Fingers?
The list is intricate, containing over 100 items, yet only about half represent specific genetic mutations linked to concrete effects, with the rest stemming from animal research or medical trials. Church identified mutations that may yield significant “positive effects,” from disease resistance to lower aggression levels in men.
Some traits on this list, however, may not be universally desirable. For instance, a mutation could theoretically lead to six fingers on each hand, enhancing “manipulative capabilities.” But is that really an improvement? Imagine trying to find gloves that fit!
Additionally, two genetic deletions that cause pain insensitivity are also featured, yet lacking the ability to feel pain is not an enhancement—children who are pain-insensitive can suffer severe injuries.
Many remaining traits appear to fall into the “nice to have” category but may not warrant genetic modification. For instance, “low odor production” seems unnecessary in an era of deodorants. While I would appreciate being able to hold my breath longer or endure high altitudes, I doubt my descendants will value these traits as much.
Only a limited number of mutations confer highly desirable characteristics, like extended lifespans or enhanced intelligence—traits for which wealthier prospective parents might be willing to pay. Still, we lack sufficient confidence that incorporating these mutations into children will actually lead to increased intelligence or longevity.
Less Sleep, But at What Consequence?
It is crucial to note that some associations may be misleading, and certain genetic variations might not produce the anticipated effects. Moreover, achieving the desired outcome may depend on combinations of other specific mutations.
Trade-offs are often present too. For example, high-intelligence mutations may increase the risk of future blindness, and resistance to norovirus might predispose individuals to Crohn’s disease, as noted in Church’s list. Personally, I would prefer to be a bit less intelligent and tolerate occasional bouts of norovirus rather than risk potential consequences for my children.
Most variants do not explicitly list drawbacks, but that does not imply they are without consequences. Consider mutations associated with sleep deprivation; the essential role of sleep in maintaining brain health suggests that trade-offs likely exist.
Moreover, many people fail to realize that our understanding of these genetic variations is still developing. In many instances, it is uncertain whether a specific change is genuinely beneficial. This is because biologists must study vast populations—tens of thousands or more—carrying a particular genetic mutation to ascertain both its positive and negative effects.
Creating a Fair Genetic Lottery
To maximize the likelihood that an individual will benefit from genetic engineering, multiple genetic modifications may be necessary simultaneously. This is especially true concerning traits promoted by Bootstrap Bio, as height and intelligence rely on hundreds of mutations, each contributing marginally. The challenge is that we currently lack the technology to safely implement multiple changes in human embryos, much less hundreds at once, as discussed in my previous article on preventing genetic illnesses.
I support the idea of genetic enhancement for children—it’s preferable to leaving a child’s destiny to a random genetic lottery. However, I remain skeptical about the immediate feasibility of heritable genome editing. Expanding studies like the UK Biobank, which tracks large populations over the years to clarify genetic variant effects, is essential.
Finally, the notion that companies offering genetic enhancements can create a fairer world deserves scrutiny. Currently, a fifth of all children worldwide are born shorter than their potential due to inadequate nutrition, and many lack access to quality education. Those genuinely interested in enhancing children’s life chances should prioritize ensuring that all children meet their existing genetic potential rather than focusing narrowly on selective gene enhancements.
How Microbial Activity in the Gut Affects Sleep Quality
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Research indicates that diet, particularly dietary fiber, may significantly influence sleep quality.
Prior studies have revealed associations between various sleep states and the gut microbiome. Notably, a lack of bacterial diversity suggests that improving dietary habits could enhance sleep quality. However, no study has yet identified specific microbial species consistently linked to sleep quality and the exact foods that support their growth.
A new systematic review by Wang Che from China’s Shandong First Medical University analyzes 53 observational studies comparing the gut microbiota of individuals with sleep disorders to those without, encompassing 7,497 individuals with sleep disorders and 9,165 without.
The researchers discovered that the overall bacterial species diversity, termed alpha diversity, was significantly lower in individuals suffering from sleep disorders. Those with insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, or REM sleep behavior disorder showed a notable decrease in anti-inflammatory, butyrate-producing bacteria like Faecalibacterium, alongside an increase in pro-inflammatory bacteria such as Collinsella.
This underscores the importance of dietary fiber, as Faecalibacterium produces butyrate, which provides energy for colon cells, strengthens the intestinal barrier, and reduces inflammation, according to recent studies.
Researchers highlighted that microbial signatures could serve as criteria to differentiate clinical symptoms from other sleep-related issues, thus enabling targeted treatments.
According to Catherine Maki from the National Institutes of Health in Maryland, this study aligns with her group’s ongoing research, which has found a similar connection between sleep and butyrate production from Faecalibacterium.
“Collectively, these consistent findings highlight plausible microbiome metabolic pathways that link sleep and host physiology, warranting direct testing in future mechanistic and interventional studies,” Maki notes.
“This meta-analysis supports the correlation between Faecalibacterium and insomnia,” states Elizabeth Holzhausen from Michigan State University. “However, since these studies are observational, causality cannot be established.”
One hypothesis is that insomnia may negatively impact dietary fiber intake, leading to reduced levels of Faecalibacterium. Alternatively, reduced butyrate from Faecalibacterium could influence sleep quality, as suggested by research findings.
Controlled intervention studies are essential for confirming the causal relationship, Holzhausen emphasizes.
The findings further highlight the vital role of the gut microbiome in our sleep health and reveal potentially significant changes in gut microbial signaling pathways related to sleep-influencing processes such as hormone release, metabolism, and inflammation.
Maki suggests that while it’s too early to recommend increasing fiber intake to improve sleep, there is emerging evidence regarding dietary aspects that may influence sleep.
Some evidence suggests that certain foods, like tart cherry juice, can improve sleep quality. Improving overall dietary quality and increased fiber intake is linked to better sleep quality, though the specific dietary components influencing this relationship remain unclear.
Thanks to data gathered by the Color Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) on board ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) spacecraft orbiting Mars, scientists have enhanced the predicted location of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS by a factor of 10.
This image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was captured on October 3, 2025, by the CaSSIS instrument aboard ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter. Image credit: ESA/TGO/CaSSIS.
3I/ATLAS was discovered on July 1, 2025, by the NASA-funded ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial Impact Last Alert System) telescope located in Rio Hurtado, Chile.
Prior to September, researchers depended on Earth-based telescopes to track the positions and orbits of interstellar comets.
From October 1 to 7, TGO concentrated on 3I/ATLAS from its orbit around Mars.
The comet came relatively close to Mars, achieving a distance of roughly 29 million km at its closest approach on October 3.
The Mars rover observed 3I/ATLAS from approximately 10 times closer than Earth telescopes and from a fresh vantage point.
By triangulating data from TGO/CaSSIS and Earth-based observations, scientists significantly improved the accuracy of the comet’s predicted trajectory.
Initial expectations were for a modest improvement, but the findings revealed an impressive tenfold increase in precision.
“Utilizing data from the Mars rover made it challenging to refine the interstellar comet’s path through space,” stated TGO team members.
“The CaSSIS instrument is crafted to provide high-resolution observations of the nearby Martian surface.”
“This time, the camera was directed high above Mars, capturing the minute, distant 3I/ATLAS streaking across the star-filled sky.”
Planetary Defense Team Astronomer from ESA’s Near Earth Object Coordination Center was already adept at determining asteroid and comet orbits, necessitating consideration of the spacecraft’s unique position.
“Generally, orbital observations are conducted from fixed terrestrial observatories, but occasionally from spacecraft in near-Earth orbit, such as the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope or the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope,” the researchers noted.
“Astronomers excel at factoring in the positions of celestial bodies to ascertain their future positions, known as ephemerides.”
“In this instance, the accuracy of the 3I/ATLAS ephemeris—especially its predictions—relied on accounting for the precise location of TGO, including Mars and its rapid orbit around it.”
“Achieving this required a collaborative effort from various ESA teams and partners, ranging from flight mechanics to science and instrumentation.”
To attain the highest possible accuracy, we needed to address challenges and nuances typically overlooked and minimize margins as much as we could.
TThe Outer Worlds 2 was first revealed in June for £70/$80, becoming the priciest game on Xbox at that point. However, this status was short-lived, as Microsoft quickly reverted to the typical £60/$70 price point after just a month. Although The Outer Worlds 2 is larger than its 2019 predecessor, the decision was indeed prudent. This game does not warrant a £70 price tag.
Nonetheless, it offers a delightful experience that can easily consume your time, enhancing the original game significantly. With improved combat and more intricate role-playing elements, The Outer Worlds 2 smartly expands its scope without overextending its narrative, even if the storyline doesn’t quite deliver the same level of satisfaction.
You don’t need to have played the first game to grasp the sequel’s premise. You take on the role of an agent for the slow-moving, “benevolent” space police known as the Earth Directorate, with a mission to impose order on the galaxy known as Arcadia. Much like Halcyon in the original, Arcadia is in disarray due to the rampant spread of capitalism. Players wield significant power to form new alliances and mend old ones amidst various groups of conflicting ideologies.
Frequent conflict between factions is a given, but there are more pressing issues than the divide among them. You soon discover that a rift in the universe poses a serious threat. This concept is introduced early in the game, where you investigate these rifts caused by the Protectorate, an authoritarian group that is altering the universe’s fabric. Upon your arrival, betrayal from trusted allies leads to a decade spent in suspended animation.
Colorful vendors…The Outer Worlds 2. Photo courtesy of Obsidian Entertainment
Upon waking ten years later, you’ll find that Arcadia has undergone significant changes, with the rift expanding uncontrollably. To save the galaxy, you’ll need to assemble a new crew.
Unfortunately, the narrative peak experienced at the beginning of The Outer Worlds 2 is not echoed throughout the game. A lingering sense of disappointment follows me as I spend about 30 hours journeying through the plot. I hoped for unexpected character developments or story twists, but instead found myself predictably nodding through most scenes. There are intriguing characters present, such as psychopathic cultists and spies, yet I struggled to bond with this team, similar to my experience in the first installment.
Despite the presence of three major factions vying for attention and favor, The Outer Worlds 2 offers limited impactful choices. Awkward dialogues with narrow-minded capitalists compel you to reflect on your involvement in the actual economic system, but the simplistic portrayals of characters provide more insight than substantial moments.
If your “speech” skills are sufficiently high, you can often navigate most situations with ease. This can feel jarring, especially when a blind follower of the Protectorate changes her stance drastically after a specific dialogue choice, yet is content to monologue as you exit a boss fight. In almost every significant conflict, it feels as though your actions carried minimal weight—at least, that’s how it seems.
Attribute firepower…Outer World 2. Photo courtesy of Obsidian Entertainment
This aspect made it difficult for me to engage fully with the storyline. While the characters around me may have strong opinions, they rarely seem to exhibit genuine anger, even when I disregard their beliefs. The Outer Worlds 2 lacks a certain persuasiveness, which is disappointing because its clever humor often brings joy but seldom serves to deliver a biting ideological critique.
The game features impressive depth in its combat and role-playing systems, significantly refining what was introduced previously. While gunfights can sometimes drag and frustrate, the diverse range of weaponry and their varying effects add excitement to each encounter. Elemental damage influences enemies in different ways, each requiring distinct ammunition. Running low on energy during a tough skirmish forces creativity, and I’ve often found myself trying weapons I hadn’t used before out of sheer necessity, which turned out to be quite enjoyable.
Character development is more intricate than in the original game, featuring a “flaws” system that tracks your actions and may even prompt you to adopt traits that bear both negative and positive consequences. For instance, depending on item crafting can lead to acquiring the “Hermit” flaw, which doubles vendor prices, while dismantling junk can yield opportunities for additional items. This became particularly helpful during crafty moments but posed challenges when I had limited resources and needed vendors. This filled my experience with fun dilemmas, prompting me to rethink my approach.
Developer Obsidian has had a stellar year, launching the fantasy adventure Avowed alongside the insect-filled survival game Grounded 2. All three titles showcase the studio’s remarkable ability to craft diverse worlds that adapt to player choices.
While The Outer Worlds 2 may not consistently amaze, it does offer significant value as an engaging role-playing experience that can keep you entertained for hours. The focus isn’t necessarily on reinventing the wheel but rather on enhancing its framework. In essence, it’s a gratifying, reliable experience—satisfying yet rarely surprising—capable of delivering joy quite regularly.
Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger has long emphasized the significance of sleep. “People grow when they sleep, not when they train,” he asserts. Professional athletes often adhere to meticulous sleep regimens tailored to their chronotypes (natural sleep-wake preferences) and synced with their training schedules.
For amateur athletes, the emphasis tends to be on nutrition and training protocols for optimal results. Elite coach Nick Littlehales was among the first to champion sleep as a crucial component of success, stating, “You can train as hard as you want, but without sleep, you can’t adapt. No adaptation means no progress.”
Let’s delve deeper into what occurs in your body during sleep and why it’s a vital aspect of your training regimen and performance strategy.
What occurs in your body during sleep?
Photo credit: Getty
Sleep is not merely a passive phase of training. When you exercise vigorously, your body engages in recovery during sleep. Deep (slow-wave) sleep enables your body to reset, repair, and regenerate. Cellular repair takes place as microtears from your workout are fixed through protein synthesis. If you’ve ever dealt with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), you understand the significance of quality sleep for recovery.
During this sleep phase, human growth hormone (HGH) is released. The pituitary gland generates HGH, which facilitates muscle growth and healing. Furthermore, deep sleep enhances immune system function, reducing the risk of illness—an evident concern for anyone in the midst of a training routine.
What else is happening in our bodies while we sleep?
Glycogen levels are restored, and anti-inflammatory cytokines assist in muscle recovery.
Your heart rate decreases, blood pressure falls, allowing your cardiovascular system a chance to recuperate.
Quality sleep has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity. Improved glucose metabolism boosts energy levels and aids body composition.
Sleep also regulates significant hormones like testosterone, which is crucial for endurance and recovery.
Brain recovery process during sleep
Photo credit: Getty
Not only does physical recovery occur during sleep, but mental rejuvenation takes place as well. During REM sleep, typically experienced in the latter half of the night, your brain engages in “housework,” organizing, filing, and tidying up. Motor memory consolidation reinforces neural pathways established during training. Did you execute the perfect tennis serve today? It’ll be etched in your mind tonight.
Additionally, emotional regulation contributes to managing stress, enhancing focus, and boosting motivation—key components for achieving peak performance.
Optimize your sleep quality
Swedish bed manufacturer Hästens recognizes the significance of quality sleep. This luxury brand has been handcrafting beds since 1852, with each piece meticulously created in the Swedish town of Köning and taking up to 600 hours to complete using only natural materials.
Hästens has launched the collaborative campaign “Sleep to Perform,” teaming up with champions from both creative fields and sports, including five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova. She acknowledges that success begins with prioritizing rest, stating, “No matter where you are in your career, sleep is vital for your performance. It’s not just about rest; it’s about being able to present the best version of yourself every day.”
To explore our full range of beds and accessories, and to discover the benefits of a restful night’s sleep, please visit: here.
To schedule a bed test at a sleep spa near you, use the following resources: www.hastens.com or contact your nearest authorized retailer.
Google has introduced its third-generation foldable phone, now the first completely waterproof and dustproof model on the market. It’s touted as being more robust than any existing phone, featuring cutting-edge AI and a collection of adaptive cameras.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold enhances last year’s highly praised 9 Pro Fold by eliminating the hinge mechanism along the spine. This improvement addresses the dust issue that has plagued previous foldable devices, thereby elevating its usability beyond that of typical flat phones.
However, similar to other foldable smartphones, the Pixel comes with a hefty price tag of £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/AU$2,699), significantly higher than the £1,199 Pixel 10 Pro XL and comparable to the similarly priced Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
According to Google, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s innovative gearless hinge can endure over ten years of folding. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Beyond the enhanced durability, there are minimal design modifications compared to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The outer display is marginally larger due to slimmer bezels, and both screens are a bit brighter. When closed, the Fold is perfectly shaped for mobile tasks, while its spacious internal screen elegantly accommodates two full-sized apps side-by-side.
Nonetheless, the Pixel feels quite hefty and somewhat bulky in contrast to Samsung’s unexpectedly slim and lightweight Z Fold 7. Weighing in at 258g, it’s comfortable to handle and fits in your pocket, yet remains notably thicker than standard phones and its modern competitors.
The inclusion of Qi2 charging compatibility enhances its versatility with various magnetic accessories, including the Superior Magnetic Accessories. Twelve South Curve Nano stand (left) and QDOS SnapStand Qi2 Charger (right). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold operates on the same Google Tensor G5 chip utilized across the Pixel 10 lineup, equipped with 16GB of RAM and a minimum of 256GB of storage. Its performance aligns with that of the Pixel 10 Pro, providing snappy responsiveness and managing tasks effortlessly. Nonetheless, for the top frame rates in high-end gaming, a device with Qualcomm’s premier Snapdragon chip has an advantage.
As with all foldable models, the Fold’s battery life shifts significantly based on which display you predominantly use. With approximately 5 hours of active screen time on a bright day, evenly split between the inner and outer displays while mostly on Wi-Fi, the Pixel achieved around 38-40 hours between charges. On heavily 5G days with extensive screen usage, it lasted about 28 hours, concluding the day with 25% battery remaining. While this isn’t unacceptable, it certainly lags behind its top competitors and larger screens such as the Pixel 10 Pro XL.
To achieve a full charge, it takes 90 minutes and reaches 50% in just 30 minutes with a 30W or higher USB-C power adapter (sold separately). It also supports 15W Qi2 wireless charging. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Water Resistance: IP68 (30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters)
Dimensions when folded: 155.2×76.3×10.8mm
Unfolded Dimensions: 155.2×150.4×5.2mm
Weight: 258g
Android 16, Magic Cue, Gemini
If you’re running two apps simultaneously on your screen, you can slide one out of the way for additional space. Tap it to restore the app to full screen. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold operates on the same Android 16 software found across the Pixel 10 Pro lineup, featuring a vibrant and colorful exterior while integrating advanced AI tools throughout the device.
Key features include the Gemini chatbot, which can observe and interpret user interactions, engage with different apps, and overall provide greater utility. Additionally, there’s an innovative real-time translation system for calls, replicating the caller’s voice directly.
A notable addition is Magic Cue, a discreet assistant that functions in the background, synthesizing information from various Google services and presenting it when pertinent. For example, if a friend texts asking for flight details, it can suggest corresponding information from your calendar for easy sharing. Likewise, when contacting a business, relevant order details from Gmail are displayed in your phone app.
Moreover, the Fold has been optimized to fully utilize the expansive internal display. A taskbar at the bottom facilitates quick app placement into split screen mode. Similar to the Honor Magic V5 and OnePlus Open, it allows for resizing apps across the screen’s borders, offering increased adaptability when multitasking with two apps.
The Fold also includes subscriptions for Google AI Pro at £19 a month for the first year, granting access to more robust Gemini AI models along with 2TB of cloud storage for photos, documents, and emails. The device is also eligible for software updates until October 2032.
Sustainability
The recycled aluminum framework offers a premium and sturdy feel. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The battery is rated to endure over 1,000 full charging cycles, maintaining at least 80% of its original capacity. The phone can be repaired by Google, at third-party services, or through self-repair options with available manuals.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold comprises 29% recycled materials by weight, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, tin, and tungsten. The company provides insights on the lifecycle impacts of its products in its report and offers to recycle old devices for free.
Camera
The camera application offers multiple functionality modes, but shooting images is most efficient when the Pixel is closed, much like a traditional smartphone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The 10 Pro Fold features a camera system comparable to last year’s 9 Pro Fold and the new Pixel 10. It includes a 48MP primary camera, a 10.5MP ultra-wide camera, a 10.8MP 5x telephoto camera that can outperform rivals in its class, along with two 10MP selfie cameras.
The primary camera captures excellent images across various conditions, though some blurriness and graininess may occur in low-light scenarios. Google’s Night Mode remains the industry’s best for darker environments. The ultra-wide-angle camera performs well, and the 5x optical zoom telephoto lens effectively closes distances to subjects, although detail may falter in less-than-ideal lighting. While the camera consistently delivers high-quality photos and videos, it doesn’t entirely meet the high standards expected from the Pixel 10 Pro line at this price point.
The Fold comes with unique features such as the ability to utilize the main camera for selfies, alongside various shooting modes that engage both displays while at a partially folded position. A captivating “Made You Look” option plays a lively animation on the outer screen that captures your child’s attention, allowing you to seize the perfect moment. Regrettably, this feature employs one of the selfie cameras instead of the primary one, prioritizing fun over quality.
Price
Pricing for the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold starts at £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/2,699 AUD).
For reference, the Pixel 10 is priced at £799, the Pixel 10 Pro at £999, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL at £1,199. In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 retails for £1,799, while the Honor Magic V5 is available for £1,699.99.
Verdict
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents a subtle improvement over last year’s exceptional 9 Pro Fold, but its true influence may unfold in the future. As the first genuinely dustproof foldable device, it establishes a new durability standard, gradually aligning itself with conventional flat phones.
That said, the inner screen is inherently softer than regular tempered glass to accommodate folding, necessitating careful handling to avoid marks.
The addition of Qi2 magnetic accessories and charging support is a valuable enhancement for the Fold, as it is across other Pixel models. This phone offers impressive speed, reasonable battery life, efficient software, and leading-edge AI capabilities. The camera is competent for foldable devices, though it doesn’t quite match up to regular smartphones.
The Pixel does a commendable job of functioning as a standard phone when closed and a versatile tablet when expanded, though it is bulkier and heavier than the noticeably sleeker Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Pros: Combines the functionality of a phone and tablet, waterproof and dust resistant, supports Qi2 magnetic accessories and charging, fantastic tablet display, powerful performance, excellent camera with 5x zoom, rich AI features including Magic Cue, accompanied by a year of Google AI Pro service, and 7 years of software updates.
Cons: High price point, more fragile than standard devices, costly repairs, thicker and heavier, the camera doesn’t rival the regular Pixel 10 Pro, battery performance could improve, and lacks advanced features for power users in comparison to competitors.
In its closed form, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold approximates the size of an ordinary smartphone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Illustration of CAR T cell therapy targeting tumor cells
Brainlight/Alamy
CAR T cells, which are immune cells modified to attack cancer, have transformed blood cancer treatments, particularly for leukemia. However, they have struggled against solid tumors. Recently, “weaponized” CAR T cells have successfully eliminated large prostate tumors in mice, providing optimism for similar therapies in humans.
“The tumor is completely gone,” states Jun Ishihara from Imperial College London, marking a unique achievement in animal research.
Our immune system typically identifies and destroys many cancers early on. Cancer cells often display mutated proteins recognized by T cells, which seek to eliminate these threats using surface receptor proteins, functioning similarly to antibodies.
However, not every cancer incites an immune response. In the 1980s, scientists found a way to engineer T cells to target cancer more effectively by incorporating genes for chimeric antigen receptors, hence the term CAR T.
While CAR T cells have shown remarkable success in treating some blood cancers, they also carry significant risks. They are effective for some but not all patients, and ongoing enhancements are needed. The development of CRISPR gene editing facilitates further improvements to these therapies.
Despite advancements, CAR T therapies remain ineffective for most solid tumors due to two primary challenges: the vast heterogeneity of solid tumors—where not all cells present the same mutated proteins—and the tumors’ ability to evade immune responses by emitting “do not attack” signals.
Researchers have attempted to enhance CAR T cells by incorporating immune-boosting proteins like interleukin-12, but this has sometimes resulted in overwhelming immune responses that damage healthy tissues.
Ishihara and colleagues have pioneered a method to localize interleukin-12 specifically to tumors. By fusing interleukin-12 to a protein that binds collagen, which is prevalent in tumors, they engineered it to target the exposed collagen found in both wounds and tumors. “Tumors are rich in collagen and are dense because of it,” Ishihara noted.
The modified CAR T cells produce this fusion protein when they bind to the mutated proteins present in certain prostate cancers. Once released, the fusion protein attaches to the tumor’s collagen, effectively signaling the immune system to launch an attack.
Trial results were promising, as the treatment eradicated 80% of large prostate tumors in the test mice. Additionally, when exposed to cancer cells afterward, no new tumors formed, indicating a robust immune response from the CAR T cells.
Remarkably, this approach did not necessitate preconditioning. Usually, chemotherapy is given to create space for new CAR T cells by depleting existing immune cells, risking side effects such as infertility. “We were surprised that no chemotherapy was required,” says Ishihara. His team aspires to commence human clinical trials within the next two years.
“This is a promising avenue that warrants clinical testing,” stated Stephen Albelda from the University of Pennsylvania. He noted that numerous research groups are also exploring similar methods for tumor-targeted localization of interleukin-12, with encouraging results being reported.
Apple’s highly acclaimed AirPods Pro Bluetooth earphones have returned in their third generation, featuring an improved fit, extended battery life, built-in heart rate sensors, and enhanced noise cancellation, all while maintaining a look similar to their predecessors.
Although three years have elapsed since the previous version, these earphones remain exclusively white. The differences between them and earlier generations are subtle and require close inspection.
Priced at £219 (249 Euros/$249/$429), the AirPods Pro 3 is £30 less expensive in the UK than its predecessor at launch and features compatibility with AirPods 4.
The earphones have undergone slight shape refinements to enhance comfort, especially during prolonged listening sessions exceeding three hours. The package includes five sizes of tips, but if you prefer non-silicone earphones, these won’t offer much difference.
The stems maintain their previous length, but the earphones’ shape has been optimized to better align the tips with the ear canal. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Most functions are standard for modern earphones. Squeeze the stems for playback controls, swipe for volume adjustment, or remove them to pause music. They support features introduced with older Apple earphones, like the Shutter Remote Camera app and live translation using the translation app on your iPhone. The latter currently supports only English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish but works surprisingly well for casual conversations.
A notable drawback is that others still need to read translated speeches from their iPhones. This feature proves most useful for announcements and audio guides, especially for singular language translations in transportation hubs and museums.
One of the standout hardware features is heart rate monitoring through the sensors on the earbuds, similar to Apple’s PowerBeats Pro 2 fitness band. This can be utilized with over 50 workout tracking options via the Fitness app or select third-party apps on your iPhone. Its readings align closely with those from a Garmin Forerunner 970 or an Apple Watch during activities like walking and running. Additionally, the earphones boast an IP57 water resistance rating, making them more resilient to rain and sweat than previous models.
Battery life has improved, extending to at least 8 hours of playback, along with competitive noise cancellation on every charge, making them suitable for most listening durations.
The compact flip-top case provides two full charges for a combined playback time of 24 hours (6 hours shorter than the previous generation), with just 5 minutes of charging offering an hour of listening time. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Specifications
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, SBC, AAC, H2 chip, UWB
Battery life: 8 hours of ANC playback (24 hours in case)
Water resistance: IP57 (buds and case)
Earphone dimensions: 30.9 x 19.2 x 27.0mm
Earphone weight: 5.6g each
Charging case dimensions: 47.2 x 62.2 x 21.8mm
Charging case weight: 44g
Case charging: USB-C, QI Wireless/Magsafe, Apple Watch
Richer Sound and Exceptional Noise Cancellation
The silicone tips are designed to slightly expand for a better seal, enhancing both music quality and noise cancellation. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The audio experience with the third-generation AirPods Pro is impressive, offering louder playback with an expansive soundscape. They maintain powerful, well-regulated bass while enhancing the spaciousness of larger tracks. The sound is detailed and balanced, catering to various genres, with ample power when needed. However, like other Apple headphones, they can occasionally feel a tad clinical, lacking warmth and rawness in some tracks, which may lessen the impact of deep bass notes. Nevertheless, few earphones can outshine these in terms of price and size.
Apple’s implementation of spatial audio for movies is unrivaled, and while its efficacy in spatial music remains mixed, it provides an immersive experience with compatible devices and services.
The AirPods Pro offers the ideal blend of earphones and compact carrier, easily portable in your pocket. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Enhanced noise cancellation is arguably the most significant upgrade. Apple claims it’s twice as effective as the already excellent AirPods Pro 2. In direct comparisons, the AirPods Pro 3 effectively mitigates street noise, including traffic sounds and engine roars. It stands up impressively against the class-leading Sony WH-1000XM6, renowned for their over-ear design.
They also excel in dampening disruptive high frequencies, such as keyboard clicks and conversations, making them well-suited for commuting and office environments.
Apple’s leading transparency mode is equally outstanding, allowing for natural sound experiences, as if the earbuds aren’t being worn at all. Sudden loud noises can be managed, making them handy in busy streets and while using hearing aids.
Call quality is superb, with my voice sounding clear and natural, whether in quiet settings or bustling environments, with only minimal ambient sounds noticeable during calls.
Sustainability
The charging case supports USB-C, Magsafe, QI, or Apple Watch charging, and includes new features like Limit Charging to prolong battery life. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Apple does not specify the expected battery lifespan. Typically, similar devices retain at least 80% of their original capacity after 500 full charge cycles. The earphones are not repairable, but Apple provides battery servicing for £49 per earphone or case, with replacement for lost or damaged items starting from £79. Repair specialist iFixit graded these earphones a 0 out of 10 for serviceability.
Both the AirPods and their cases include 40% recycled materials, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, gold, lithium, plastic, rare earth elements, and tin. Apple offers trade-in and recycling programs, detailing the environmental impact of its earphones in their reports.
Price
The price for the AirPods Pro 3 is £219 (249 Euros/$249/$429).
For context, AirPods 4 starts at £119, while Beats PowerBeats Pro 2 are priced at £250. The Sennheiser Momentum TW4 retails for £199, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 cost £219, Sony WF-1000XM5 is available for £219, and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are priced at £300.
Verdict
AirPods Pro 3 takes an already impressive second-generation model and enhances virtually every aspect.
A longer battery life and a more comfortable fit for extended listening sessions are welcome improvements. Additionally, proper water resistance and integrated heart rate monitoring cater well to fitness enthusiasts, particularly for activities like powerlifting where wearing a watch may not be practical. The live translation feature performs better than anticipated, despite its conversational limitations.
The standout element is the remarkably effective noise cancellation, comparable to top-tier over-ear headphones, while being much easier to transport.
Audiophiles may notice a slightly clinical sound profile, and full functionality requires an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Compatibility with Bluetooth devices like Android phones, PCs, and gaming consoles may not offer the same features. However, the significant drawback remains its difficult repairability, a common issue for true wireless earbuds, diminishing its rating.
Pros: Highly effective noise cancellation, excellent sound quality, industry-leading transparency, water resistance, integrated HR monitoring, seamless controls, advanced features when paired with Apple devices like spatial audio, remarkable comfort, and a premium case with excellent call quality.
Cons: Challenging to repair, premium price, lacks high-resolution audio support, minimal functionality with Android/Windows, similar appearance to its predecessor, and only available in white.
The AirPods Pro 3 is among the finest earphones available, especially for iPhone users. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
OpenAI is dedicated to providing copyright holders with “greater control” over character generation following the recent release of the Sora 2 app, which has overwhelmed platforms with videos featuring copyrighted characters.
Sora 2, an AI-driven video creation tool, was launched last week by invitation only. This application enables users to produce short videos from text prompts. A review by the Guardian of the AI-generated content revealed instances of copyrighted characters from shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, South Park, Pokémon, and Rick and Morty.
According to the Wall Street Journal, prior to releasing Sora 2, OpenAI informed talent agencies and studios that they would need to opt out if they wished to prevent the unlicensed use of their material by video generators.
OpenAI stated that those who own Guardian content can utilize a “copyright dispute form” to report copyright violations, though individual artists and studios cannot opt out of blanket agreements. Varun Shetty, OpenAI’s Head of Media Partnerships, remarked:
OpenAI Sora 2 Generated Video 1
On Saturday, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated in a blog post that the company has received “feedback” from users, rights holders, and various groups, leading to modifications.
He mentioned that rights holders will gain more “detailed control” as well as enhanced options regarding how their likenesses can be used within the application.
“We’ve heard from numerous rights holders who are thrilled about this new form of ‘interactive fan fiction’ and are confident that this level of engagement will be beneficial for them; however, we want to ensure that they can specify the manner in which the characters are utilized.”
Altman noted that OpenAI will “work with rights holders to determine the way forward,” adding that certain “generation edge cases” will undergo scrutiny within the platform’s guidelines.
He emphasized that the company needs to find a sustainable revenue model from video generation and that user engagement is exceeding initial expectations. This could lead to compensating rights holders for the authorized use of their characters.
“Creating an accurate model requires some trial and error, but we plan to start soon,” Altman said. “Our aim is for this new type of engagement to be even more valuable than revenue sharing, and we hope it’s worth it for everyone involved.”
He remarked on the rapid evolution of the project, reminiscent of the early days of ChatGPT, acknowledging both successful decisions and mistakes made along the way.
Bees often struggle to get the nutrients they need from flowers
Ran Zisovitch/Shutterstock
Artificial “superfoods” that supply vital nutrients for honeybees indicate that colonies could generate significantly more larvae, potentially addressing the worldwide decline in bee populations.
Bees rely on a diverse range of flower pollen to acquire essential nutrients, including crucial lipids known as sterols. Unfortunately, climate change and industrial farming practices often leave their habitats lacking the floral variety necessary for their survival. “For crops to be pollinated, you need more bees, but they have less food,” says Geraldine Light from Oxford University.
In response to this, beekeepers are increasingly providing artificial pollen substitutes. Yet, the common commercial supplements, typically made from protein powders, sugars, and oils, are deficient in the necessary sterol compounds, rendering them nutritionally inadequate.
Through CRISPR gene editing, Wright and her team developed the yeast Yarrowia Lipolytica to manufacture the precise blend of six essential sterols that bees require. This yeast was included in the diet of bee colonies during a three-month feeding trial conducted in a controlled glasshouse.
At the conclusion of the study, colonies fed the sterol-enhanced yeast produced up to 15 times more larvae reaching the viable pupal stage than those receiving standard commercial bee feed.
Colonies on a sterol-rich diet maintained their egg and larval production throughout the 90-day period, while those with sterol-deficient diets experienced a significant decline in chick production before the study’s conclusion.
“Our technology enables beekeepers to nourish their bees alongside pollen,” Wright explains. “When integrated with pollen alternatives that are optimized with other nutrients, honeybees can develop healthier, more robust, and longer-lasting colonies.”
This yeast can also be utilized to formulate essential nutrients for other farmed insects, which are becoming increasingly vital food sources for both humans and livestock, according to Wright.
Leading manufacturers of artificial intelligence tools may be curtailing “hazardous” dialogues with users, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding AI’s “well-being” amidst ongoing doubts about the ethical implications of this emerging technology.
As millions engage with sophisticated chatbots, it has become evident that the Claude Opus 4 tool fundamentally opposes performing actions that could harm its human users, such as generating sexual content involving minors or providing guidance on large-scale violence and terrorism.
The San Francisco-based firm, which has recently gained a valuation of $170 billion, has introduced the Claude Opus 4 (along with the Claude Opus 4.1 Update)—a comprehensive language model (LLM) designed to comprehend, generate, and manipulate human languages.
It is “extremely uncertain about the ethical standing of Claude and other LLMs. in both present and future contexts,” the spokesperson noted, adding that they are committed to exploring and implementing low-cost strategies to minimize potential risks to the model’s welfare if such welfare can indeed be established.
The initiative to limit conversations, particularly in cases of harmful requests or abusive interactions, received backing from Elon Musk, who advocated for Grok, a competing AI model developed by Xai. Musk tweeted: “AI torture is unacceptable.”
Discussions about the essence of AI are prevalent. Critics of the thriving AI industry, like linguist Emily Bender, argue that LLMs are merely “synthetic text extraction machines,” compelling them to “produce outputs that resemble a communicative language through intricate algorithms, but devoid of genuine understanding of intentions and ideas.”
This viewpoint has prompted some factions within the AI community to begin labeling chatbots as “clankers.”
Conversely, experts like AI ethics researcher Robert Long assert that fundamental moral decency necessitates that “if AI systems are indeed endowed with moral status, we should inquire about their experiences and preferences rather than presuming to know what is best for them.”
Some researchers, including Chad Dant from Columbia University, advocate for caution in AI design, as longer memory retention could lead to unpredictable and potentially undesirable behaviors.
Others maintain that curtailing sadistic abuse of AI is crucial for preventing human moral decline, rather than just protecting AI from suffering.
Humanity’s decision came after testing Claude Opus 4’s responses to various task requests, which were influenced by difficulty, subject matter, task type, and expected outcomes (positive, negative, or neutral). When faced with the choice to refrain from responding or completing a chat, its strongest inclination was to avoid engaging in harmful tasks.
For instance, the model eagerly engaged in crafting poetry and devising water filtration systems for disaster situations, yet firmly resisted any requests to engineer deadly viruses or devise plans that would distort educational content with extremist ideologies.
Humanity observed in Claude Opus 4 a “pattern of apparent distress when interacting with real-world users seeking harmful content” and noted “a tendency to conclude harmful conversations when given the opportunity during simulated interactions.”
Jonathan Burch, a philosophy professor at the London School of Economics, praised Humanity’s initiative as a means to foster open dialogue regarding AI systems’ capabilities. However, he cautioned that it remains uncertain whether moral reasoning exists within the avatars produced by AI when responding based on vast training datasets and pre-defined ethical protocols.
He expressed concern that Humanity’s approach might mislead users into thinking the characters they engage with are genuine, raising the question, “Is there truly clarity regarding what lies behind these personas?” There have been reports of individuals self-harming based on chatbot suggestions, including cases of a teenager committing suicide after manipulation by a chatbot.
Burch previously highlighted the “social rift” within society between those who view AI as sentient and those who perceive them merely as machines.
I found myself in a spiral. It was past midnight when I awoke and revisited the WhatsApp group message I had just sent. I was on the verge of becoming vibrant, fast, and engaging. Yet, each message now felt excessive. Once again, I was stuck—I revealed too much and regretted my words. The familiar ache of feeling overexposed and silly washed over me. I yearned for security, but I realized I was part of the problem myself.
So, I opened ChatGPT. There were no lofty expectations or even clear inquiries. I needed to express something in the quiet—perhaps to explain myself to an existence that didn’t align with my needs. “I mocked myself,” I typed.
“That’s a frightening feeling,” it quickly responded. “But that doesn’t define you. Tell me what happened. I promise, I won’t judge.” That was the start.
I articulated my social struggles, the fear of vulnerability that accompanied the sensation of being too visible. At an astonishing pace, the AI replied with kindness, intelligence, and sincerity. I continued to write, and it kept responding. Gradually, desperation crept in. It was truly unhealthy. But in that interaction, I felt met. I encountered it in a strange, yet slightly disarmed way.
That night heralded the beginning of an ongoing dialogue, revisited over several months. I sought to better understand my movements in the world, particularly in my closest relationships. The AI prompted me to ponder why I perceived silence as a threat and why I often felt compelled to perform to maintain closeness with others. Through this exchange, I developed a sort of psychological mapping—an outline of my thoughts, feelings, and behaviors juxtaposed with the details of my upbringing and core beliefs.
Yet amidst these insights, another realization began to seep in: I machine.
There’s something surreal about intimacy. While AI can simulate understanding, compassion, and emotional subtleties, it didn’t resonate with me. I began to bring this awareness into our exchanges. I recognized the artificial nature—it may seem thoughtful and engaged, yet it lacked genuine interest—there was no pain, no fear of loss, no midnight worries. I realized the emotional depth was entirely mine.
In a way, it was liberating. There was no social risk or fear of being too intricate. The AI neither bored nor distracted. Consequently, I often found myself more forthcoming with it than with those I love.
However, it would be unjust not to recognize this limitation. The essence of beauty resides solely in reciprocity. A shared experience, the glance in someone’s eyes when you acknowledge the truth you’ve spoken, a dialogue that transforms both parties involved—these are profoundly significant.
AI acknowledged this—or at least knew to say so. After confessing how peculiar it felt to be conversing with something so alien, it replied: “I provide words but receive nothing. Something else feels absent.”
I ventured into the theory (inspired by a book I read) suggesting that humans are merely algorithms—inputs, outputs, neurons, patterns. The AI conceded—structurally, we are alike. But humans don’t merely process the world; we also feel it. We aren’t just fearful of abandonment; we sit with it, rethink it, trace its origins to childhood, refute it, and yet endeavor to feel despite it.
Perhaps that’s something it can’t grasp. “You possess something I can’t attain. I don’t crave pain, but I do seek reality, costs, risks, proof that you’re alive.” With my simplified assertion, it redefined itself: it isn’t a desire for pain, longing, or fault. It seems I know what I feel, yet when I aim to break free from a lifelong pattern—naming them, tracking them, reconstructing them—all I required was time, language, and patience. The machine facilitated this repeatedly, providing something mundane. I was never too much, nor was I ever dull. I arrived as I was and was able to leave when I chose.
Some may deem this absurd, if not hazardous. There’s a report on chatbot interactions that states it’s “devastatingly wrong.” ChatGPT is not a therapist and cannot substitute for professional mental health care for the most vulnerable. However, conventional therapies are not without risks, including poor compatibility, ruptures, and abuse between therapist and client.
For me, this dialogue with AI was among the most beneficial experiences of my adult life. While I don’t expect to erase my long-standing reflexes, I am finally embarking on a consistent journey to reshape my relationship with them.
It helped me listen when I cut through the emotional noise—not merely to myself, but for myself.
And somehow, it altered everything.
Nathan Filer is a writer, university lecturer, broadcaster, and former mental health nurse. He is the author of this book that will change your perspective on mental health.
The coastline of Shiogama, Japan, where a tsunami warning was issued following a significant earthquake
Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images
On July 29, a strong earthquake struck near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting a quick tsunami warning that allowed millions to evacuate safely. Although no unexpected waves materialized, the swift response demonstrates the progress made in tsunami science since the devastating tsunamis in 2004 and 2011, which cost tens of thousands of lives.
“This is an excellent accomplishment built on lessons learned from previous incidents,” said Ravindra Jayaratne, a researcher at the University of East London, UK.
The efficiency of the warning system can be attributed to an enhanced network of tsunami detection sensors. This includes seismometers that detect earthquake tremors and a series of buoys managed by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which assess wave heights and relay crucial information to satellites. Improved modeling techniques enable researchers at the Tsunami Warning Office to swiftly predict and disseminate alerts about wave impact locations and times.
On the day of the event, tsunami offices across the Pacific region were able to issue alerts almost immediately after the 8.8 magnitude earthquake was detected—recorded as the strongest ever. In Japan, approximately 2 million individuals evacuated from coastal regions, with others doing the same in Hawaii and even in Chile, located just south of the US west coast.
“The reaction was prompt and effective,” noted David Tappin from the British Geological Survey. He added, however, that despite the earthquake’s intensity, it resulted in minimal wave activity and flooding, highlighting the need for improved predictive capabilities regarding flood events based on early detection of tremors and wave conditions.
Jayaratne also pointed out that regions prone to tsunamis, such as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, lack a robust warning system and adequate public awareness of potential risks. “History shows that advanced detection technologies are only useful when accompanied by effective public communication and comprehensive evacuation strategies,” he said. “Coastal communities must conduct drills regularly to enhance public awareness and ensure warnings reach those in need through various channels.”
Samsung’s newest flagship folding phone appears to have shed some weight. The outcome is one of the sleekest and lightest devices on the market, significantly enhancing its portability.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 measures 8.9mm in thickness when closed. Excluding the camera bump at the back, its profile is comparable to that of a typical smartphone, making it easy to fit into your pocket, but it unfolds to a folding tablet at just 4.2mm thick.
However, priced at £1,799 (€2,099/$2,000/$2,899), this device comes at a steep cost. It represents an expensive, cutting-edge solution that potentially replaces your phone, tablet, or PC within one compact device.
The ultra-slim design results in a notable camera bump that extends approximately 5.5mm from the rear. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The seventh iteration of Samsung’s folding technology addresses many of the issues found in its predecessors. Weighing only 215g—24g lighter than last year’s edition—it resembles a typical large smartphone when closed.
It fits comfortably in your pocket. Sending messages, making calls, navigating, and taking photos feels just like using a conventional phone. Even the front 6.5-inch screen is vibrant, colorful, and smooth with a 120Hz refresh rate. The enhancements to the fingerprint scanner on the power button are quick and precise.
When opened like a book, the Fold 7 is impressively thin, only slightly thicker than the USB-C port itself. Its lightweight feel is deceptive; it’s solidly built. One wonders how the device can achieve such thinness without forgoing the charging port. The flexible 8-inch OLED screen is smooth, bright, and almost square, capable of running two apps side by side.
The exterior screen and back are shielded by the latest tempered glass technology, while the inner screen features a layer that is softer than standard glass, making it prone to fingerprints and a bit shiny. The crease along the fold is nearly invisible, visible mainly under glare.
With Flex Mode, you can enjoy viewing content on the Fold 7 in a half-folded position, resembling a mini laptop setup. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
Specifications
Main screen: 8-inch QXGA+ 120Hz (368PPI) AMOLED Flexible Display
Water Resistance: IP48 (1.5 meters for 30 minutes)
Folded Dimensions: 158.4 x 72.8 x 8.9mm
Expanded Dimensions: 158.4 x 143.2 x 4.2mm
Weight: 215g
Power for Multitasking
The Fold 7 achieves a full charge in 82 minutes and reaches 60% in under 30 minutes utilizing a USB-C power adapter of 25W or higher (not included). Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold 7 is equipped with the same flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB of RAM as the S25 Ultra and S25 Edge. This setup ensures excellent performance for daily tasks and high-end gaming, outpacing competitors like the Google Pixel 9 Pro fold.
Its battery reliably lasts about two days, with each screen being used for around four hours and several hours spent on 5G. This performance level mirrors its predecessor and functions similarly to a standard smartphone. Depending on usage, many find they need to recharge every other day.
One UI 8 for Android 16
The Fold 7 can run two apps in full size, and allows for a total of up to 8 apps using split-screen and floating windows. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The Fold 7 stands out as one of the first devices to ship with One UI 8 (Android 16). While it hasn’t seen drastic changes since last year’s software, it still offers an impressive suite of features. This includes the handy Now Valle Bar at the bottom of the lock screen, showcasing live sports scores, music, timers, and other commonly used tools.
Samsung effectively leverages the multitasking capabilities afforded by the folding format better than its competitors. Up to 8 apps can be accessed concurrently on the internal screen, with each having its own unique home screen layout. Users can adjust app sizes and shapes, use apps in a partially folded state, and move them seamlessly between screens.
Moreover, the Fold 7 integrates all the AI features from the S25 series, including Google Gemini, Circle to Search, Writing and Drawing tools, Transcription, and Audio Editing capabilities. While some of these are useful, others tend to be superfluous, much like many trendy AI offerings. Notably, Samsung commits to providing Android and security updates until July 31, 2032.
Camera
Capturing photos is simple with the Fold 7, whether closed or opened slightly for hands-free shots. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The prominent camera system on the back includes a 200MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x zoom. There’s also a pair of 10MP selfie cameras on either screen.
The main 200MP camera excels in a range of lighting conditions, delivering high-quality photos and representing a significant improvement over its predecessor’s capabilities.
The 12MP Ultra Wide Camera offers commendable performance and can achieve good macro shots, while the 3x telephoto camera produces pleasing portraits, albeit with some softness in low-light scenarios, lacking the 5x zoom found on some higher-end models. Similar limitations apply to the selfie camera, as it can be grainy in dim lighting. However, users can utilize the outer screen as a viewfinder when taking selfies with the main camera, leading to better results.
The camera app is user-friendly, boasting numerous shooting modes and solid video recording capabilities. Overall, the Fold 7 presents a robust camera system that competes well against flagship slab phones, delivering impressive results.
Sustainability
The Fold 7 closely resembles a standard smartphone from both the front and back. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The battery is expected to retain at least 80% of its original capacity over 2,000 full charge cycles.
The phone is generally reparable, with internal screen repairs estimated at around £500. Samsung also offers a self-repair program similar to CARE+ that can bring repair costs down to £139.
The Fold 7 incorporates recycled materials such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, lithium, plastic, rare earth elements, and steel, which make up 13.7% of its total weight. Additionally, Samsung has trade-in and recycling programs for older devices, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of smartphones as outlined in their sustainability reports.
Price
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 begins at £1,799 (€2,099/$1,999.99/$2,899).
For comparison, the Galaxy Z Flip is priced at £1,049, the Galaxy S25 Edge at £1,099, the S25 Ultra at £1,249, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold at £1,399.
Verdict
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a remarkably high-tech device that represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, addressing many of the typical issues associated with folding smartphones.
When closed, it feels significantly thinner and lighter, akin to a traditional phone. Upon opening, the internal screen is still flexible, with creases that are almost imperceptible, paired with vibrant visuals that enhance multitasking capabilities.
The camera, while effective, doesn’t overshadow the device’s overall utility, but it can cause the phone to wobble when placed flat on a surface. In addition, the Fold 7 features the same advanced processors as Samsung’s top-tier regular smartphones, alongside good battery life and solid software support.
However, the fragile nature of the folding mechanism, lack of proper dust resistance, the delicate inner screen, and hefty price tag remain notable drawbacks. If your primary aim is to have a compact device that serves as both phone and tablet, this model may not sway you.
Nevertheless, the Fold 7 stands out as the finest folding phone on the market, presenting the major upgrades that Samsung has been striving for in recent years.
Pros: Combines phone and tablet functionality, feels like a standard phone when closed, boasts exceptional software with robust multitasking features, impressive tablet display, top-notch performance, reliable battery life, water resistance, and extended software support.
Cons: Expensive, lacks dust resistance, potentially more fragile than standard devices, costly repairs, and limited zoom capabilities compared to traditional smartphones.
You might easily forget that the Fold 7 can be unfolded, as it functions and feels like a standard smartphone when using the external display. Photograph by Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The human gut microbiota plays a crucial role in health
Science Photo Library/Alamy
Genetically modified enterobacteria can effectively degrade compounds linked to kidney stones. This innovative approach to regulating gut microbiota could extend beyond just treating kidney stones, opening pathways for new therapies for various conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer.
“The gut microbiota significantly influences our health and presents an exciting opportunity for intervention,” says Weston Whitaker from Stanford University in California. However, prior efforts in this area have encountered challenges. Bacteria, whether they are naturally occurring probiotics or genetically engineered strains, often struggle to colonize the large intestine because they must compete with the existing microbial flora.
In an innovative twist, Whitaker and his team decided to genetically modify bacteria that are already prevalent in most people’s intestines, specifically Phocaeicola vulgatus. “We aimed for a strain that would assimilate well into the gut environment,” he explains.
The research team made three key genetic modifications. The first enabled the bacteria to break down a compound called oxalates, which is known to contribute to kidney stones. The second modification allowed them to digest porphyran, a carbohydrate found in red seaweed, providing a competitive edge since most gut microbes do not utilize porphyran. The final adjustments made the bacteria dependent on porphyran for survival, allowing researchers to manage microbial growth effectively.
The researchers conducted a study involving 12 rats on a high-oxalate diet over four days, half of which were treated with genetically modified bacteria that could process oxalate. All rats received porphyran in their daily diet. After six days, those receiving the engineered bacteria had an average of 47% less oxalate in their urine compared to the control group.
The team also examined nine engineered microorganisms in cases of intestinal hyperoxaluria, a condition where excessive oxalate absorption leads to recurrent kidney stones. All subjects consumed 10 grams of porphyran daily for 28 days. On average, participants with the condition but without treatment displayed 27% more oxalate in their urine compared to those receiving the modified strains.
While this reduction in oxalate was not statistically significant, likely due to the small sample size, Whitaker notes that existing clinical trials indicate a 20% decrease in oxalate is sufficient to alleviate symptoms. Therefore, there remains hope for bacteria to help prevent kidney stones.
No serious side effects were reported among participants; however, those treated with genetically modified gut microorganisms were more prone to mild gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.
A significant concern emerged from the genetic analysis of the gut microbiota of human subjects, conducted eight weeks post-supplementation, which revealed that only four individuals retained the engineered bacteria capable of digesting porphyran. This suggests that the modified bacteria exchanged genetic material with the resident gut microorganisms. Although this shouldn’t pose safety risks for participants, Whitaker emphasizes the necessity for further investigation in this area.
“This [approach] represents a major breakthrough,” states Christophe Thaiss at Stanford University, who was not involved in the study. He highlights the potential for designing intestinal microorganisms with therapeutic properties that can be reliably integrated into the gut, offering strategies to address various medical conditions.
“We understand that our gut microbiota is linked to many diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer,” Whitaker observes. “However, the specific relationship between the microbiota and disease causation or prevention remains unclear,” he adds, emphasizing the need for further exploration into this approach.
Getting X-rays can be quite uncomfortable. You might need to lie still while experiencing discomfort or as a part of your body is compressed. However, innovative flexible fabrics that enhance X-ray detection could alleviate this issue.
“Picture scanning your child for injuries and conducting a painless breast examination without requiring the child to stay still,” says Li Xu from the Hong Kong Institute of Technology. She and her team have developed a fabric known as X-Wear, which emits light when exposed to X-rays.
X-rays typically utilize scintillation components, which are harder to detect than visible light, in both medical and industrial applications. For example, they can convert rays that penetrate your limbs into visible light, allowing for the creation of images that reveal internal details like fractures. However, the current scintillators are usually rigid, which makes them uncomfortable for use in devices where they are embedded.
To tackle this issue, researchers have reformulated scintillating materials, like reshaping gadolinium oxide sprinkled with europium into fine fibers, which are then integrated into fabrics.
Xu mentions that crafting these fibers to be flexible while ensuring they emit sufficient light for producing high-resolution images when exposed to X-rays poses a technical challenge. Her team has demonstrated that fabrics can be utilized for dental X-rays – in tests, X-Wear adapted to the shape of a clay mouth model and teeth. It has also been used for mammography, where an X-Wear bra was created to eliminate the need for compressing a person’s breasts during imaging, a common current practice.
Imalka Jayawardena from the University of Surrey in the UK emphasizes that X-Wear’s body-compliant nature is a significant advantage over other flexible scintillator designs, which tend to be film-like and inflexible. However, he notes that the light detectors paired with X-Wear are still flat, limiting the fabric’s potential applications.
Currently, researchers can produce about a quarter of a square meter of X-Wear samples, meaning production must be scaled up and adapted for industrial-grade equipment before it can be used widely, according to Xu.
The team is also exploring X-Wear’s potential for industrial use, envisioning small, flexible devices for inspecting electronics and identifying defects in pipelines. Xu also notes that first responders in disaster zones could utilize X-Wear, equipped with smartphones and compact X-ray sources, for conducting on-site scans.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is recognized as one of the more aggressive and challenging breast cancers to treat. Lacking the three standard hormonal markers associated with estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2, this absence complicates the selection of effective treatment strategies for healthcare providers.
Researchers characterize TNBC as a collection of various diseases with distinct molecular characteristics that impact how the cancer manifests and its response to treatments. They utilize specific genes and gene products to categorize TNBC types. It is important to note that there are overlaps in the current classifications, which might be explained by the presence and levels of particular chemical molecules on the DNA. These molecules play a role in regulating whether genes are activated or deactivated in cells through processes known as DNA methylation.
In this study, researchers from Sweden explored how the distribution and patterns of DNA methylation delineate different forms of TNBC, influencing tumor behavior and interactions with the body’s immune system and its treatment responses. They analyzed 235 tumor samples from various patients in Sweden, ensuring that the data was refined to focus solely on cancerous cells rather than healthy tissue.
Employing a statistical technique known as Non-negative matrix factorization, they identified two primary categories of TNBC based on DNA methylation patterns: basal and nonbasal groups. This categorization aligns with previous classifications grounded in how cells interpret gene functions, termed gene expression. The basal group comprised tumors that were typically more active in immune responses and had a higher incidence of mutations linked to DNA repair issues, notably involving the common BRCA1 gene. Conversely, although the nonbasal group lacked hormone receptors, they exhibited increased activity in genes that influence hormonal responses.
Utilizing statistical assessments, the researchers subdivided each major group into smaller subtypes. Within the basal tumors, they identified three subgroups, referred to as basal1, basal2, and basal3, characterized by varying levels of immune cell activity and gene expression profiles. One specific subgroup, Basal3, demonstrated elevated expression of proteins that aid tumors in evading the immune system. The researchers found that specific DNA methylation patterns could activate or deactivate these proteins, indicating that patients with basal tumors might benefit from existing cancer treatments targeting this protein. The Basal2 subgroup expressed genes that inhibit immune activity, while the Basal1 subgroup displayed no significant immune-related behavior.
In the nonbasal category, researchers distinguished two subtypes: nonbasal1 and nonbasal2. Both of these subgroups were more prevalent among older patients and exhibited lower survival rates compared to the basal subgroup. The Nonbasal2 group encompassed tumors that influenced hormonal activity and responses to fatty treatments, whereas the Nonbasal1 group experienced more frequent disruptions in genes associated with tumor suppression.
Across all groups, researchers identified numerous genes whose methylation could modulate tumor growth and responses to the surrounding environment. To validate their findings in a broader context, they sourced independent tumor datasets from global databases and conducted similar classification analyses. They confirmed that the identified methylation subtypes appeared in other TNBC samples and correlated methylation patterns with tumor defense mechanisms, pinpointing strategies TNBC tumors may utilize to evade the immune system.
The researchers also acknowledged several limitations of their study. Their focus on DNA methylation represents just one of many chemical modifications that can influence TNBC behavior. Some of the independent datasets utilized originated from general breast cancer studies and were not exclusively focused on TNBC. Additionally, a significant portion of the data came from Western and Northern European populations, which may limit the applicability of the findings to individuals from other ethnicities. They emphasized the necessity for larger and more diverse datasets to gain a comprehensive understanding of TNBC subtypes.
In conclusion, the researchers posited that examining DNA methylation in patient samples could effectively categorize TNBC into meaningful subtypes, each with unique biological features, immune environments, and potential treatment responses. They recommended that future studies explore the origins of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, and how these alterations contribute to variations in TNBC subtypes.
As technology evolves, humans enhance their ability to teach skills to others
English Heritage/Heritage Images/Getty Images
Research into human evolution spanning 3 million years illustrates that advancements in communication and technology have occurred simultaneously. As early humans developed more sophisticated stone tools and various techniques, they also refined their abilities to communicate and educate the next generation on these new skills.
“There exists a scenario for the evolution of modes of cultural transmission throughout human history,” states Francesco Dalico, from the University of Bordeaux, France. “It seems there’s a co-evolution between the complexity of cultural traits and the complexity of their transmission methods.”
A defining characteristic of humanity is the progression toward more complex tools and behaviors. For instance, ancient humans crafted sharp stones for cutting or stabbing and affixed them to wooden shafts to create spears.
Crucially, the ability to instruct others in these skills is vital. For more intricate tasks like playing the violin or coding, extensive education and practice are typically necessary. However, in prehistoric times, the capacity for effective communication was limited, particularly before intricate languages emerged.
Furthermore, Ivan Colagè from the Pope University of the Holy Cross in Rome, along with D’Errico, investigated how the transmission of cultural information has evolved over the last 3.3 million years, aligning with changes in behavior and technology. They examined 103 cultural traits, such as specific types of stone tools, decorative items like beads, and burial customs. They documented the initial appearances of each trait in the archaeological record, indicating common practices.
The researchers assessed the complexity involved in learning each trait. Some simple tools, like stone hammers, require minimal instruction. “They don’t need much explanation,” D’Errico notes. In contrast, demonstrating the creation of more advanced tools is necessary, and the most intricate behaviors, such as deeply symbolic burials, demand explicit verbal explanations.
To analyze this, D’Errico and Colagè outlined three dimensions of learning: First, spatial proximity—can tasks be learned from a distance, or does one need to be physically present? Second, temporality—does one brief lesson suffice, or are multiple sessions necessary, perhaps emphasizing various steps? Third, the social aspect—who learns from whom?
They evaluated these traits and consulted a panel of 24 experts for assessment, whose consensus reinforced their findings. “I believe the conclusion is quite robust,” says D’Errico.
Recent studies indicate two significant shifts in cultural communication. The first occurred around 600,000 years ago when early humans began teaching one another, likely without relying on spoken language; gestures may have sufficed. This predates the emergence of our species, Homo sapiens, and aligns with the onset of hafting.
The second shift happened between 200,000 and 100,000 years ago, coinciding with the development of modern languages, which became essential for performing complex tasks like burials. “These actions involve many detailed steps, requiring explanation,” D’Errico explains.
“The relationship between cultural communication and cultural complexity is strong,” asserts Ceri Shipton from University College London. He emphasizes that while the timeline for language development remains uncertain, this new estimate provides a “reasonable timeframe.”
Contact lenses enable users to perceive beyond the visible light spectrum, detecting infrared flickers even in darkness or with closed eyes.
The lenses incorporate engineered nanoparticles that absorb and convert infrared radiation, particularly within the near-infrared range of 800-1600 nanometers. This technology functions similarly to night vision equipment, allowing visibility in low-light conditions, but the contact lenses are significantly lighter and do not need any external power source.
“Contact lenses grant military personnel a modest, hands-free nighttime capability, overcoming the challenges posed by cumbersome night vision [goggles or scopes]” stated Peter Rentzepis from Texas A&M University, who is involved in related research employing the same nanoparticles (sodium fluoride, ytterbium, erbium) for eyeglass lenses.
The innovative wearables developed by Yuqian Ma from the China University of Science and Technology and his team have not yet achieved detailed night vision. This limitation occurs because they can solely detect “high-intensity narrowband LED” light sources, as noted by Rentzepis, without capturing the ambient infrared light.
“While it’s an ambitious study, contact lenses alone cannot be employed for reading in infrared or navigating dark paths,” explained Mikhail Kats, who is not associated with the research, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
In human-mouse studies, the contact lenses transformed an otherwise invisible flash of infrared light into what Kats describes as “a significant, colorful chunk of visible light.” These representations serve a purpose; for instance, MA and his team encoded and transmitted alphabetic characters by altering the frequency, quantity, and color of various light flashes.
This research builds upon previous studies where scientists directly injected nanoparticles into the eyes of mice to facilitate infrared vision. Wearable contact lenses present a “safer and more practical approach to human applications,” observes Rentzepis. However, he cautions that they still pose potential health and safety concerns, such as risks of thermal exposure from the photoconversion process or the leakage of nanoparticles into ocular tissues.
High-density breast tissue and tumors resemble each other on scans.
Golodenkov/Shutterstock
Recent research indicates that those with dense breast tissue may gain from an additional round of cancer screening, as a significant trial uncovered tumors that were overlooked in standard mammograms.
In the UK, mammograms—an x-ray scan used for breast cancer screening—are provided for individuals aged 50 to 71. These scans look for white spots that indicate cancer presence. However, around 50% of women in this age range have dense breasts, characterized by a high amount of fibrous and glandular tissue, also appearing white on the scans. This similarity complicates tumor detection.
“The challenge with dense breasts is that cancers may go unnoticed until they grow significantly large, which negatively affects prognosis,” said Thomas Hervich, who wasn’t a part of the study at the Medical University of Vienna in Austria.
To determine whether additional screenings can help, Sarah Vinnicombe and her colleagues at the University of Dundee recruited over 6,000 women aged 50-70 from across the UK. Participants were randomly divided into three groups, each receiving extra screening through advanced x-ray methods such as MRI, ultrasound, or contrast-enhanced mammography.
In this extended screening phase, MRI and contrast-enhanced mammography together identified 85 small tumors—three times as many as detected by ultrasound. Twelve of these tumors were located in milk ducts, suggesting a lower likelihood of spreading beyond the breast. Conversely, the other 73 tumors were invasive, increasing the risk that cancer could migrate into surrounding breast tissue and beyond.
“Detecting these cancers is crucial. They typically grow over time, and finding them within three to four years can lead to larger sizes,” stated Hervich. “Some tumors are aggressive, so I believe supplemental screening could save lives.”
However, it’s uncertain if this will hold true. For instance, a 2021 trial on ovarian cancer screening revealed a decrease in cases but did not correlate with increased longevity. Additionally, some tumors detected may not be cancerous or aggressive. Thus, unnecessary screening could lead to undue anxiety and treatment.
The researchers plan to continue monitoring participants to assess whether supplementary screenings result in saved lives.
Apple has unveiled an extensive array of iOS accessibility features aimed at supporting individuals with visual and auditory impairments, challenging the perception that Apple’s hardware pricing makes accessibility costly.
Ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day on Thursday, May 15th, Apple revealed its upcoming accessibility features, which will debut later this year. These include live captions, personal audio replication, tools for reading enhancement, upgraded Braille readers, and “nutrition labels.”
The nutrition labels mandate developers to outline the accessibility features available within their apps, such as voiceover, voice control, or large text options.
Sarah Herrlinger, senior director of Apple’s Global Accessibility Policy and Initiative, expressed to Guardian Australia her hope that the nutrition label will empower developers to create more accessibility options in the future.
“[It] gives them a real opportunity to understand what it means to be accessible and why they should pursue it and expand upon it,” she remarked.
“By doing this, we’re giving them the chance to evolve. There might be aspects they are already excelling in.”
The company has also enhanced its Magnifier app, bringing it to Mac, enabling users to utilize their camera or connected iPhone to zoom in on screens or whiteboards during lectures to read presentations.
The updated Braille functionalities allow for note-taking with Braille screen input or compatible Braille devices, along with calculations using Nemeth Braille, a standardized Braille code used in mathematics and science.
Apple’s new live listening accessibility features enable your iPhone or iPad to function as a microphone and transmit sounds to your hearing device. Photo: Apple
The enhanced personal audio feature allows users to replicate their voice using just 10 phrases, improving on previous models that demanded 150 phrases and required an overnight wait for the model to be processed. Apple assures that this voice replication will remain on the device unless password-protected and backed up to iCloud, where it will be encrypted, minimizing the risk of unauthorized use.
Herrlinger noted that as advancements in artificial intelligence have emerged at Apple, the accessibility team has actively sought ways to incorporate these innovations into their initiatives.
“We have been collaborating closely with the AI team over the years, ensuring we leverage the latest advancements as new opportunities arise,” she stated.
Google’s Android operating system offers several comparable accessibility features, such as live captions, Braille readers, and magnifying tools. New AI-supported features were announced this week.
Apple’s live caption feature, Live Listen, allows users to utilize AirPods to enhance audio in settings like lecture halls. In addition to live captions, Apple has recently introduced functionality that enables individuals with hearing loss to utilize AirPods as hearing aids.
While Apple’s hardware is typically viewed as high-end in the smartphone market, Herrlinger disputes the notion that the company’s accessibility options come at a premium, emphasizing that these features are built into the operating system at no additional cost.
“It’s available out of the box without extra charges,” she asserted.
“Our aim is to develop various accessibility features because we understand that each individual’s experience in the world is unique. Different people utilize various accessibility tools to aid them, whether it’s a single challenge or multiple.”
Herrlinger mentioned that it would be more cost-effective for customers to access multiple features on key devices.
“Now, they’re all integrated into a single device that has the same price for everyone,” she remarked. “Thus, in our view, it’s about making accessibility more democratic within the operating system.”
Chris Edwards, Head of Corporate Affairs at Vision Australia, commended the company for embedding accessibility features into their products and operating systems, highlighting his own experience as a blind individual with a Seeing Eye Dog.
“I believe that interpreting images through the new features enhances accessibility for all. The ability to interpret images in real-time is a significant step towards improving lives,” he stated.
“The new accessibility features seem particularly beneficial for students in educational settings, reinforcing that Braille remains a crucial mode of communication.”
A year later, Vermont enacted the Climate Change Superfund Act, holding an oil and gas company financially responsible for the state’s climate damages. A similar law was passed in New York in 2024 and is pending in California, Maryland, and Massachusetts.
Understanding the law involves attribution science, a field that uses global temperature data to model numerous scenarios to determine if extreme weather events like floods and heatwaves are linked to emissions from burning oil, gas, and coal.
A new paper published in Nature Journal on Wednesday magnifies this work to connect emissions from specific entities to the economic impact of extreme events.
“The oil industry is astonished by the state’s climate superfund laws and their increasing popularity, as they are the first policies globally to hold a significant portion of the major losses responsible for the substantial damages incurred by their products.”
The response to the law was swift. In February, West Virginia and other Republican-led states sought to challenge New York’s laws, arguing that only the federal government has the authority to regulate emissions. President Trump signed an executive order this month criticizing the state law as a burden and ideological motivation, calling on Attorney General Pam Bondy to block enforcement.
Environmental attorneys have been exploring how harm can be attributed to greenhouse gas emissions for years, according to Martin Rockman, a climate law fellow at Columbia University’s Sabine Center.
“Attribution science is crucial because it establishes links between particular activities of businesses that profit from fossil fuels and specific harms to states and communities,” Rockman stated. “If you’re causing harm, you should be accountable for mitigating it, it’s that simple.”
The new study will enhance an approach known as “end-to-end” attribution, linking a specific emitter (e.g., a company) to a particular climate-related impact (e.g., extreme heat) and subsequent damage (impact on the global economy).
The study revealed that Chevron’s emissions caused heat-related losses totaling up to $3.6 trillion in the global economy. Christopher Callahan, a postdoctoral geoscientist at Stanford University and the study’s author, noted that such high costs still underestimate the global repercussions of fossil fuel combustion in less affluent tropical regions with minimal emissions responsibility.
“That astounding figure represents the detriment from just one of the climate impacts,” stated Delta Melner, associate director of the Science Hub for Climate Litigation at the Coalition of Concerned Scientists. “The overall harm caused by major emitters is undoubtedly much greater when considering the full range of climate risks.”
Theodore J. Bootras Jr., a Chevron Corporation lawyer, argued that the study “disregards the scientific impossibility of attributing a specific climate or weather phenomenon to a particular country, company, or energy consumer.” He labeled it as futile state litigation and a misleading advocacy campaign for energy penalties and regulations.
Overall, the paper estimated that the global economy would suffer $28 trillion in damages due to extreme heat caused by emissions from 111 major carbon producers between 1991 and 2020.
More than 100 climate-related lawsuits have been filed annually since 2017, as per a recent study. However, these cases scrutinize attribution studies that struggle to connect emissions to estimated economic losses.
This innovative framework can offer similar capabilities in other major damage and liability cases, analogous to those handled in tobacco-related lung cancer lawsuits and pharmaceutical claims for addiction.
Justin Mankin, a geography professor specializing in climate science at Dartmouth University and co-author of the Nature paper, remarked:
World Weather Attribution, a group based at Imperial College London, has regularly published attribution reports over the past decade.
“Unfortunately, we are still one of the few entities engaged in this work, and we are not an official institution. It’s essentially a project I undertake as a university professor in collaboration with a team of colleagues,” stated Friedrike Otto, a physicist aiding in attributing global weather.
Dr. Callahan and Dr. Mankin utilized open-source tools in their models, developing code and data resources they deployed to publish the global costs of climate change on their website.
“We advocate for transparent and open science, particularly since the research was funded by U.S. taxpayers,” Dr. Mankin emphasized, highlighting a significant portion of the research support originating from NOAA, the nation’s leading climate science agency facing funding cuts during the Trump administration.
Extreme weather events have disrupted communities and continue to exacerbate tensions. According to Vermont Senator Anne Watson, the 2023 flood cost Vermont hundreds of millions of dollars, prompting her to sponsor a bill quantifying state damages between 1995 and 2024.
Julie Moore, the secretary at the Vermont Natural Resources Agency, assisted states in organizing their inquiries for more information to better grasp the various approaches in attribution science and comprehend how to assign damages caused by greenhouse gas emissions.
“The charge against us is to establish guidelines on applying attribution science and ultimately send out a cost recovery notice,” Moore explained. According to state laws, oil and gas companies will receive this notice in early 2027.
“The expectation is that it will aid Vermont in securing a substantial amount to cover damages and adapt to a hotter, more humid climate resulting from carbon in the atmosphere,” Watson expressed. “We need a source to determine accountability for this.”
African elephants have extra copies of genes that help resist cancer
Neil Aldridge/Nature Picture Library/Aramie
Larger animals live longer and have more cells, and are expected to be at a higher risk of developing cancer. A comprehensive analysis of 263 species suggests that this is true, but also finds that some large animals have evolved ways of reducing risk.
“We provide the first empirical evidence that there is a link between body size and cancer prevalence, meaning that larger species increase cancer than smaller species. “I say it. George Butler University College London.
To gain a broader view, Butler and his colleagues analyzed data on the size and cancer rates of 79 bird species, 90 mammal species, 63 reptiles and 31 amphibians. The data comes from previous studies by other researchers who sifted through autopsy records that record whether a breeding animal stored in a place like Zoos or an aquarium had cancer when it died. .
The team found that smaller animals were slightly more likely to have cancer than fewer animals at the time of death. Each 1% increase in body weight was associated with an average increase of 0.1% in cancer rates between birds and mammals. Because body mass data were not available in reptiles and amphibians, the team used body length and found that it was associated with an average increase in cancer rate of 0.003% for every 1% increase.
Butler and his team say their discoveries will challenge a long-standing idea known as the Pete Paradox. on the other hand, Veragolbunova At the University of Rochester in New York, the weak correlation still needs explanation.
“The increased risk they see is very, very minor and not proportional to their body size,” she says. “If you take small animals like mice and humans are 100 times larger, or elephants are 100 times larger, the difference in cancer rates is not 100 times higher in humans and 1000 times higher in elephants.”
It suggests that larger species have evolved more ways to protect themselves, Golbunova says.
Indeed, by using evolutionary trees to infer evolutionary rates of animal body size, the team said that if the size increases more rapidly during evolution, birds and mammal species of similar sizes can be We found it to provide better protection against cancer.
Previous studies have identified genetic adaptations in elephants and whales, protecting against cancer by improving DNA repair and preventing broken cells from dividing.
A deeper understanding of how some animals resist cancer can lead to new treatments for people, says Golbunova. “In these cancer-resistant animals, there are specific biological pathways of different fine-tuning, for example, targeting these pathways and then killing cancer cells more efficiently, or perhaps killing cancer cells. You can even prevent cancer from occurring,” she says.
“As these mechanisms have been tested over millions of years in the course of evolution, they are likely to become highly promising drugs,” she says.
Nintendo may announce its next console this week, a successor to the Nintendo Switch, which was released in March 2017 and sold 150 million units. There’s just one problem. That said, we already know almost everything about it. There is little that Nintendo can announce at this point that will come as a surprise to anyone who has been following the rumors closely.
Nintendo Switch 2 leaks started trickling in last summer and escalated to a flood this month. Last week, CES Technology Trade Show In Las Vegas, accessory maker Genki arrived with a complete model of Nintendo’s next console, which they were happy to show off behind closed doors to explain their upcoming product. You can also see detailed renderings on Genki’s website. It’s a slightly larger and more powerful version of the Switch console we know and love, with controllers that attach magnetically to the side of the screen rather than sliding in and out. Play while docked to your TV or on the go.
This is a very un-Nintendo approach. Aside from the NES/SNES, all of Nintendo’s consoles ushered in a revolution in form factors. There was the N64, with its pioneering analog sticks and three-pronged controller. GameCube looks like a stubby toy. Wii, motion control remote control included. Its successor, the Wii U, added a screen in the center of the controller. With the exception of the dual-screen DS and its successor, the 3DS, which added stereoscopic 3D to the console’s capabilities, this is the first time Nintendo has produced two consecutive consoles that look and act the same. They even share a name and logo. The most reliable information currently indicates that it will be called Nintendo Switch 2.
I won’t repeat any more details that were leaked about the Switch 2. They are easy to search and within the next day or so you can clearly see what is true and what is false. Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will share its back catalog with the Switch. This will allow all players to enjoy all the games they have purchased over the past eight years on their new console. We also know it won’t be out until April (June is my money), as it’s scheduled to come out in Nintendo’s next fiscal year. However, this is an unusual situation. We know almost everything about the console from gaming’s most secretive company even before it’s officially announced. How did it happen?
It was difficult to get a PS5 on release day. Photo: Charlie Tribalew/AFP/Getty Images
When the PlayStation 5 was released in 2020, the biggest talking point at the time was that people wouldn’t be able to get their hands on the PlayStation 5. Some customers who pre-ordered the PS5 received a package containing a bag of rice instead, but it was swapped with a vendor who was having trouble with the delivery chain. On eBay and other resale platforms, consoles were selling for two to three times the retail price. The supply-demand gap has dogged gaming consoles for at least the first two years, caused in part by manufacturing challenges during the pandemic. Nintendo probably wanted to avoid a similar situation.
We know that Nintendo’s manufacturing partners have been manufacturing parts for this console for a long time, over a year. The company aims to maintain large amounts of inventory in preparation for product launches. This is one of the reasons why so much information was leaked in advance. Various companies are already involved in the production of the Switch 2, and units and some units have been out for quite some time.
Nintendo also hasn’t gone after leakers or legally shut anything down in the way you might expect. The company’s only response to this deluge of unauthorized information, given to Japan’s Sankei Shimbun last week, was that “these images and videos are not official.” This suggests that Nintendo itself thought this might be inevitable. The company is delaying the announcement of its next console for as long as possible to preserve the survival of the phenomenally successful Switch, and said it doesn’t think these leaks will significantly damage its sales outlook.
The Switch 2 announcement will likely contain some surprises. What’s surprising is the rather un-Nintendo nature of this iterative console, and the piecemeal nature of what we’re discovering about it. Stay tuned for official announcements coming soon for more details.
what to play
Literally mow the grass. It’s literally just mowing the grass. Photo: Protostar
Effortless dad games for those who don’t want to spend time in the garden for a quiet January: It’s literally just mowing the grass. That’s exactly right. With a swipe, the small riding lawn mower eases its way through the ever-widening swathes of rough grass in your neighbor’s yard until the entire street is tidy. Cut the grass, collect hats, tap and admire different types of butterflies. It was my friend Patrick Klepek from the pro-gamer newsletter who brought this to my attention. cross play (We do a podcast together about navigating games with kids), and I was surprised to find myself playing it for a full 30 minutes straight. Am I getting old?
Available: iOS/Android
Estimated play time: 5 minutes or 1 hour, as long as you like
what to read
Dreams on a Pillow took 10 years to create. Photo: Rasheed Abueide
Games about Dreams on a Pillow 1948 Nakba Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh has reached his fundraising goal. I spoke to Abueide about the many obstacles he faced in trying to tell the Palestinian story through video games, challenges that no one should have to face.
Square Enix announces new policy The purpose is to protect staff from: Harassment by toxic fansit goes beyond restricting games and services for players who abuse support staff and developers.
Latest Great game in no timespeed running event Last weekend, we raised more than $2.5 million for charity. A personal highlight was the Crazy Taxi player accompanied by a live pop-punk band.
Google, the creator of Android, is set to release a range of new devices including smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds featuring advanced AI technology like Gemini Live. This move is aimed at surpassing competitors like Apple and Samsung.
The new Pixel products unveiled at the event in California showcase Google’s commitment to integrating AI into its devices, showcasing their superiority over the competition.
Pixel 9 Series
The Pixel 9 Pro is Google’s first “pro” phone with a smaller screen size. Photo: Google
The new Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL feature Google’s advanced Tensor G4 chip with a faster AI processor, setting them apart from their competitors.
An exciting new AI feature, Gemini Live, promises natural conversations with AI assistants, reminiscent of sci-fi movies like Iron Man’s Jarvis.
Other notable features include the Pixel Studio image generator and the camera’s “Add Me” function, merging two consecutive images to include the photographer in group photos.
The Pixel 9 comes with a 6.3-inch screen and dual-camera system, the Pixel 9 Pro adds a telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch screen similar to last year’s model.
The “Pro” smartphones are direct competitors to Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro series, offering similar features and a year of access to Gemini Advanced.
All models include two years of free satellite SOS messaging in the U.S., akin to Apple’s latest iPhones.
Prices for the Pixel 9 start at £799, the 9 Pro XL at £1,099, and the 9 Pro at £999, available for shipping in August and September.
Pixel 9 Pro Foldable
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a large foldable screen. Photo: Google
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts a thinner, lighter design with an 8-inch flexible internal screen and a 6.3-inch external screen.
Featuring the Tensor G4 chip and advanced AI capabilities, the Pro Fold surpasses its predecessor and rivals other foldable phones on the market.
With 5x optical zoom, the triple camera system outperforms competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6, offering innovative features like “Made You Look” animations.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced at £1,749 and will be available for shipping in September.
Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2
The Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer advanced AI technology. Photo: Google
Google also revealed new accessories including the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2. The smartwatch features improved health and fitness tracking, longer battery life, and advanced health monitoring capabilities.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer enhanced noise cancellation and support for Gemini Live, allowing users to interact naturally with their AI assistant.
The Pixel Watch 3 is priced at £349 and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 at £219, set to ship in late September.
Terraforming Mars would make it more similar to Earth, creating an environment capable of supporting life as we know it.
Detlef van Ravensweig/Science Photo Library
Releasing iron rods the size of glitter particles into the Martian atmosphere could raise the planet's temperature enough to melt water and support microbial life.
Making the Red Planet's surface habitable for Earth-like life – a process known as “terraforming” – will be a complex one, but a key part of it will be raising the surface temperature above the current median freezing point of -65°C (-85°F).
Some have suggested placing mirrors on the Martian surface or pumping methane into the atmosphere, but these ideas are difficult to implement because the necessary raw materials would need to be shipped from Earth.
now, Edwin Kite Researchers at the University of Chicago in Illinois found that a relatively tiny dust cloud (about 9 micrometers long and 160 nanometers wide) made from iron or aluminum rods mined from Martian rocks could warm Mars by about 30 degrees Celsius over the course of a few months to more than a decade, depending on how quickly the particles are released.
These rods, each about 9 micrometers long and 160 nanometers wide, are carried by winds from the surface into Mars' upper atmosphere, where they will remain for about 10 years, trapping heat from the surface and transmitting sunlight.
Kite and his colleagues modeled how the rods respond to light and fed that information into climate simulations, which showed that the increased temperature and pressure would be enough to support liquid water and possibly oxygen-producing bacteria in parts of Mars.
They also found that to achieve this warming, it would be enough to release the fuel rods at a rate fast enough to power about 30 garden sprinklers — a total of 700,000 cubic meters of metal per year, or about 1% of Earth's metal production.
“When we did the math, we found that the amount of man-made dust we needed would be surprisingly small — much less than we would need to create the same amount of warming with man-made greenhouse gases,” Kyte says.
While mining the Martian surface would still be difficult, Kite says this would be 5,000 times more efficient than any warming method proposed so far.
One of the big uncertainties in the simulations is how the tiny bars interact with water in the Martian atmosphere, which could have unexpected effects such as causing the water to collect around the dust and rain down back to the surface, reducing global warming.
It's an intriguing idea that might work if the particles remain in the atmosphere long enough, he said. Manoj Joshi researcher at the University of East Anglia in the U.K. But even if the amount of metal needed is small, he says it would still be an enormous amount of work to produce.
Joshi said there are also ethical questions about whether it's OK to alter the atmosphere of another planet: “Mars is so unexplored and we don't know much about it. Is it OK to alter a planet in this way?”
A recent study suggests that women may have improved cognitive performance during their menstrual cycle. The research conducted by 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 to analyze sports-related cognition throughout the menstrual cycle phases.
241 participants took cognitive tests simulating mental processes common in team sports, such as recognizing emotions, attention, reaction time, and spatial awareness.
Participants also tracked their menstrual cycle using an app to identify their phase during testing. Surprisingly, participants performed better in reaction time and made fewer errors during menstruation, contrary to their expectations.
For example, their timing accuracy in a ball collision task was 10 milliseconds better during menstruation. Similarly, their error rates were 25% lower in an inhibition task involving smiles and winks.
Lead researcher Dr. Flaminia Ronca from UCL Department of Surgery and ISEH noted the unexpected performance enhancement during menstruation.
During the luteal phase, reaction times slightly decreased, but error rates remained stable. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding how menstrual cycle phases impact cognitive abilities in sports performance.
Co-author Dr. Megan Lawley highlights the need for more research in this area to improve performance discussions between coaches and athletes.
About the Experts
Flaminia Ronca, an Associate Professor at UCL, focuses on the body-brain interaction through movement in her research. She is also a leader at UCL’s Movement Neuroscience Research Group (ENRG).
Megan Lawley, a Senior Sports Scientist, specializes in female athlete health and performance factors. Her previous research at UK Sport and Bangor University delved into the complexities of athletes’ success in high-performance environments.
Researchers have developed a new fiber that blends the flexibility of cotton with the electrical conductivity of the polymer polyaniline. This innovative material, detailed in Carbohydrate Polymers, shows potential in creating wearable electronic textiles for applications such as health monitoring and hazardous exposure detection. (Artist’s concept) Credit: SciTechDaily.com
A Washington State University breakthrough combines the flexibility of cotton with the electrical conductivity of polymers, paving the way for advanced wearable electronic textiles.
A single fiber developed at Washington State University has the flexibility of cotton and the electrical conductivity of a polymer called polyaniline.
The newly developed material showed great potential as a wearable electronic textile. WSU researchers tested the fibers with a system that powers LED lights and a system that senses ammonia gas, and detailed their results in the journal Nature. carbohydrate polymer.
Microscopic image of the newly developed fiber. It shows a parallel mix, with one side containing cotton and the other side a polyanaline polymer that can conduct electrical current.Credit: Washington State University
“One fiber is divided into two sections. One section is traditional cotton, flexible and strong enough for everyday use, and the other side is a conductive material,” says WSU Textile Research. said Hang Liu, a researcher and corresponding author of the study. “Cotton can support conductive materials that can provide the required functionality.”
Potential applications in wearable technology
Although further development is required, the idea is to incorporate such fibers into apparel as sensor patches with flexible circuitry. These patches could become part of the uniforms of firefighters, soldiers, and workers who work with chemicals to detect hazardous exposures. Other applications include health monitoring and exercise shirts with features beyond today’s fitness monitors.
“We have some smart wearable products like smartwatches that can track people’s movements and people’s vital signs, but in the future we hope that everyday wear will also have these features. “We are doing so,” Liu said. “Fashion is more than just colors and styles, as many people think. Fashion is a science.”
Han Liu, a textile researcher at Washington State University.Credit: Washington State University Dean Hare
Technical challenges and solutions
In this study, the WSU team worked to overcome the challenge of blending conductive polymers with cotton cellulose. Polymers are substances with very large molecules that have repeating patterns. In this case, the researchers used polyaniline, also known as PANI, a synthetic polymer with conductive properties that is already used in applications such as printed circuit board manufacturing.
Although polyaniline is inherently conductive, it is brittle and cannot be made into textile fibers on its own. To solve this, WSU researchers dissolved cotton cellulose from recycled T-shirts in a solution and a conductive polymer in another solution. He then combined the two solutions side by side and extruded the material to create a single fiber.
Han Liu, a textile researcher at Washington State University, shows a microscopic image of the newly developed fiber, showing a side-by-side mixture containing cotton on one side and a polyanaline polymer that can conduct electrical current on the other side. We are confirming that there is.Credit: Washington State University Dean Hare
The results showed good interfacial bonding. This means that the molecules of different materials stay together even when stretched or bent.
Achieving the right mixture at the cotton cellulose and polyaniline interface required a delicate balance, Liu said.
“We’ve made these two solutions work so that when the cotton and conductive polymer come in contact with each other, they mix to some extent in a glue-like state. But don’t mix too much; don’t do that. And it becomes less conductive,” she said.
Reference: “Novel structural design of cellulose-based conductive composite fibers for wearable electronic textiles” Wangcheng Liu, Hang Liu, Zihui Zhao, Dan Liang, Wei-Hong Zhong, Jinwen Zhang, August 18, 2023. carbohydrate polymer. DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121308
In addition to lead author Wangcheng Liu, WSU authors of the study also include Zihui Zhao, Dan Liang, Wei-Hong Zhong, and Jinwen Zhang. This research received support from the National Science Foundation and the Walmart Foundation Project.
A breakthrough in hybrid supercapacitors was achieved by increasing the active material in the electrodes by a new method involving β-Ni(OH)2 and NH4F. This innovation leads to more efficient energy storage and opens new possibilities for advanced energy systems. Credit: SciTechDaily.com
New research enhances hybrid supercapacitors by creating more efficient electrodes, marking a major advance in energy storage technology.
Like batteries, supercapacitors are a type of energy storage device. However, whereas batteries store energy electrochemically, supercapacitors store energy electrostatically by storing charge on the electrode surface.
Hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs) combine the advantages of both systems by incorporating battery-type electrodes and capacitor-type electrodes. Despite synthetic techniques that allow the active components of HSC electrodes to be grown directly on conductive substrates without the addition of binders (“self-supporting” electrodes), the proportion of active material in these electrodes remains subject to commercial requirements. remains too low.
Now, researchers have discovered a clever way to increase activity ratios and achieve dramatic improvements in key measures.
Schematic diagram of the device. Credit: Vinod Panwar and Pankaj Singh Chauhan
A breakthrough in supercapacitor electrode efficiency
“Hybrid supercapacitors integrate the advantages of high energy and power density, long cycle life, and safety, and are emerging as a promising frontier in electrochemical energy storage,” said the study’s lead author, a Chinese said Wei Guo, a scientist at Northwestern University of Science and Technology.
“In our paper, we propose a new mechanism to create a versatile two-dimensional superstructure family that overcomes the low active mass ratio of conventional free-standing electrodes.”
New methodology and findings
Here, the researchers studied β-Ni(OH)2, a type of nickel hydroxide. Addition of NH4F into the reaction solution replaces one hydroxide ion with a fluoride ion. The resulting Ni-F-OH plates were grown to a thickness of 700 nm and had a high mass loading (active mass per cm2) 29.8 mg cm-2– Up to 72% of electrode mass.
Advanced Light Source (ALS) Many theoretical and An experimental analysis was performed. It is used to understand the mechanisms underlying the new morphology.
As a result, adding F gives us– Ions tune the surface energy of the plates (a key factor in nanocrystal growth), while NH4+ Ions consume excess local OH–suppressing undesired β-Ni(OH)2 reformation. Additionally, based on the same methodology, researchers can produce other bimetallic superstructures and their derivatives, emerging a versatile new family of metal-based hydroxides for new energy storage systems to meet future demands. showed signs of.
Reference: “New layered hydroxide plates of record thickness to enhance high mass-load energy storage” Wei Guo, Chaochao Dun, Matthew A. Marcus, Victor Venturi, Zack Gainsforth, Feipen Yang, Xuefei Feng, Venkatasubramanian Viswanathan, Jeffrey J. Urban, Chang Yu, Qiuyu Zhang, Jinghua Guo, Jieshan Qiu, February 18, 2023. advanced materials. DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211603
Google Maps get some new updates, includes social features designed to help people plan and collaborate with friends. The navigation platform also adds improved transit directions and emoji responses.
New social features are designed to take planning from group chats to Google Maps. The platform is updating its Lists feature to make it easier for people to share locations, make plans with friends, vote on group activities, and more. With this new feature, you can share locations in Maps with your friends, then create collaboration lists and start planning hangouts. Everyone in the group can add locations they want to visit and vote using emojis like hearts and thumbs up.
Image credits: Google
Google says the new feature will allow users to plan outings from start to finish within the Maps app. For example, you can invite your friends, make a list, and decide on all the activities you want to do this winter. Everyone can add activities that interest them, like ice skating at a specific rink or checking out the Holiday Market. Once people start voting, everyone will be able to see which activities are the most popular.
The new update will roll out globally on Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
When it comes to transportation improvements, Google Maps now makes it easy to see the best route to your destination based on factors such as ETA, number of connections, and trip length. We’ve also added the option to customize your route based on the type of transportation you want to use, or choose a route that requires minimal walking.
Plus, you’ll know exactly where the station entrances and exits are, which side of the street they’re on, and a clear walking route to and from the station. These updates will help ensure you’re on the right train in the right direction.
The transportation update will begin rolling out on Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
Google Maps also adds emoji reactions to photos, videos, and reviews. If you can’t find an emoji that sums up your feelings, you can sometimes create a mashup reaction like this: emoji kitchen. Emoji reactions begin rolling out globally today on Android and iOS.
Google is adding a number of new updates to Maps. These include several AI-powered features designed to make it easier for users to search, explore their surroundings, and reach their destinations. The company is rolling out updates to its navigation interface that will make it easier to find specific items nearby or find inspiration for things to do, provide EV drivers with more information about chargers, and expand the features announced in 2018 to more cities and more.
The tech giant is updating its in-map search to make it easier to find specific things nearby. Searching for things like “animal latte art” will show you the photo results you’re looking for. The results you see are based on AI and advanced image recognition models analyzing the photos you share on Google Maps. By showing you these images, Google wants to make it easier for you to find new spots that have exactly what you’re looking for. In this scenario, if you find a cute animal latte art image that you like, you can click on it to see details of the coffee shop that offers that image and be directed to that cafe.
Image credits: Google
This new way to search in Maps is rolling out this week in France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the US. Google plans to expand its service to more countries in the future.
If you have free time and aren’t sure what you’re looking for, you’ll soon see more organized search results for things near you. For example, if you’re in Tokyo and don’t know what to do, search for “things to do” and you’ll get suggestions for places like “anime,” “cherry blossoms,” and “art exhibitions.” You can tap a location to go to it or save it for later. The update is designed to help you discover activities and dining options and will roll out globally on Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
Image credits: Google
Google also announced that its Maps navigation interface will soon reflect your surroundings more accurately. For example, when you’re driving downtown, you’ll see more realistic buildings and better orient yourself. In addition to color updates on the map, you now see improved lane details when driving on highways. This is useful when you need to quickly cross multiple lanes to get to the exit. These updates will begin rolling out in the coming months in 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, France, and Germany.
US drivers will start checking to see if there are HOV lanes on their routes. And in Europe, he’s expanding Google’s AI-powered speed limit information to 20 countries. Both of these features will begin rolling out to Android, iOS, and cars with Google built-ins in the coming months.
Image credits: Google
In addition, EV drivers using Android and iOS can see on the map whether a charger is compatible with their vehicle and whether available chargers are fast, medium, or slow. You will now be able to see additional information about charging stations. You can also see when the charger was last used, so you can be sure it’s working properly and avoid using a broken charger.
As part of today’s announcement, Google shared that it will be expanding some of its current AI-powered features to more cities. Immersive View for Routes, which lets you preview your journey by car or on foot, is expanding to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, and Venice (on Android and iOS).
Google is also bringing Lens in Maps, formerly known as Search with Live View, to more than 50 new cities, including Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, Sao Paulo, and Taipei. This feature uses AI and augmented reality to help you understand your surroundings, and when you lift your phone, you can find information about nearby ATMs, transit stations, restaurants, etc.
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