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General Relativity Could Rescue Some Planets from Oblivion

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Illustration of two planets circling white dwarf stars

Julian Baum/Science Photo Library

Planets in orbit around white dwarf stars may have the potential to remain habitable due to subtle movements dictated by the general theory of relativity.

As sun-like stars deplete their fuel, they expand into red giants, shedding their outer layers, ultimately leaving behind a dense, hot core called a white dwarf. Evidence shows that giant planets can continue orbiting these remnants, indicating that life may withstand the stars’ expansion.

Moreover, rocky planets could potentially orbit close to these stars within a compact habitable zone. This zone is the region around the star where liquid water can exist on a planet’s surface, though it has yet to be observed. White dwarfs can remain hospitable for immense periods, as they cool down very gradually, possibly for trillions of years.

The habitable zone is located million kilometers away from the stars and is significantly narrower than Earth’s orbit of 150 million kilometers. Previous studies indicated that a massive orbiting planet makes survival untenable due to tidal heating effects: the gravitational pull of a larger planet generates internal friction, leading to a runaway greenhouse effect akin to that of Venus.

However, modeling conducted by Eva Stafne suggests this might not necessarily be the case. Juliet Becker, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, found that, under certain conditions, Einstein’s general theory of relativity can provide a lifeline for the inner planet.

According to general relativity, massive objects warp space-time, which can be visualized as a dip or “well” on a flat surface. Essentially, the gravity wells of the host star become detached from the orbiting planet, slowly rotating and interacting inconsistently as the planet moves in and out of these wells.

“There’s a precession that separates the outer planet from the inner planet,” says Stafne, which prevents extreme tidal effects on the inner planet. “Past simulations did not consider general relativity, but this highlights the importance of including it in these close systems.”

Without considering general relativity, the outer planet, which would need to be at least 18 times more massive than the innermost planet, could provoke this runaway greenhouse effect, Becker explains. Yet, “factoring in general relativity changes the outcome dramatically,” she states. The inner planet can remain hospitable to similar distances, even with an outer planet as large as Neptune.

Mary Anne Limbach from the University of Michigan is uncertain about the likelihood of discovering such systems. “I’m not even sure if any habitable planets exist around white dwarfs,” she states. Telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope are actively on the lookout for rocky worlds in the vicinity of white dwarfs.

Nevertheless, this research reveals a unique series of plausible scenarios where inhabitants of distant worlds may thrive under suitable conditions, thanks to the bending of space-time.

“We might have a better understanding of how common relativity can be than we think,” Limbach observes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Tech Company Proposes Under-Skin Trackers for Criminals in Meeting with Attorney General

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Devices for tracking individuals implanted beneath the skin, robots designated to manage inmates, and unmanned vehicles for their transport are among the solutions proposed by technology firms to ministers seeking approaches to address the crisis in the UK’s judicial system.

This proposal arose during last month’s gathering of over 20 high-tech companies in London, chaired by Attorney General Shabana Mahmood, as highlighted by meeting notes reviewed by The Guardian. In light of a critical shortage of prisons and probation officers, struggling under immense pressure, the minister solicited ideas for utilizing wearable technology, behavioral surveillance, and geographical data to establish “prisons beyond the walls.”

Participants included representatives from Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Palantir, who collaborate closely with the US military as well as the NHS. IBM and Serco, a private prison operator, were also present, along with firms specializing in tagging and biometrics, in response to their freedom of information request.

Mahmood stated to the technology firms, “We seek to deepen cooperation between government and industry to confront the prison capacity crisis, reduce recidivism, and enhance community safety.” She expressed the need to “scale and improve” the current application of tagging technologies “to encourage rehabilitation, mitigate crime, and enhance surveillance.” Prison minister James Timpson advocated for a “technology-driven approach to justice.”

This initiative represents the latest move by the Labour government to integrate the tech industry into efforts to achieve cost efficiency across public services, from schools to healthcare. In January, Keir Starmer asserted that AI could significantly “transform public services” and spoke about an “entire overhaul of government.”

The Ministry of Justice’s advocacy continues after last month’s Judgment review where former Attorney General David Goke emphasized the need for shorter sentences and a greater utilization of AI in public spaces to alleviate the overcrowded prison population by almost 10,000.

During a recent meeting convened by industry lobby group Tech UK, the minister questioned tech companies about the vision for a “digital, data, and technology-enabled judicial system” by 2050. Proposals included “real-time behavioral monitoring and subcutaneous tracking” to facilitate “behavioral management” for individuals within the criminal justice system, as well as AI support for criminal rehabilitation. Robotics were suggested for the movement and management of inmates, including self-driving vehicles for transporting them.

Human rights advocates described the concept as “a troubling dystopia,” cautioning at the conference that the government appeared “too aligned with tech giants.” A follow-up meeting with tech firms is scheduled for Tuesday, where Lord Timpson is expected to hear a 20-minute presentation of an innovative proposal during the “Innovation Den.”

Government officials emphasized that the ideas discussed thus far are hypothetical considerations aimed at enhancing public safety and stimulating dialogue about the future of criminal management.

The Attorney General previously indicated that he does not shy away from employing technologies like “gait recognition,” a biometric method capable of analyzing unique human movement patterns.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice commented, “We are continually exploring technologies that aim to reduce crime, monitor offenders effectively, and ensure the safety of our citizens, as the public rightly expects.”

Donald Campbell, advocacy director at the nonprofit organization FOXGLOVE, which campaigns for equitable technology usage, labeled the ideas as “surprisingly dystopian.” He remarked, “It’s concerning that the Minister of Justice is considering using robots to manage inmates and embedding devices in people’s skin to monitor their behavior or ‘predict’ future actions.”

Other recommendations from tech firms included deploying powerful quantum computers to “analyze historical data to foresee future behavior” and automate decision-making processes for overburdened probation services.

Nevertheless, there are worries about the implications of over-reliance on technology. Meeting notes recorded the sentiment that “if misapplied, these methods could yield dystopian results that are challenging to rectify.”

Campbell further stated, “The notion that tech companies can create tools to ‘predict’ crime has been met with skepticism on several occasions. It’s unfortunate to see this push being made.”

Tech UK, the organization that hosted the conference, mentioned that its initiatives aim to cultivate a more equitable, improved, and efficient justice system. “It’s crucial that the future of justice is developed with transparency, accountability, and public trust at its foundation,” a representative noted.

Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, and Palantir did not respond to inquiries for comments. Serco stated, “We will not provide commentary on this initiative.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

From Chimpanzee Banananini to Ballerina Cappuccina: How Gen Alpha Went Wild for Italian Brainwashed Animals

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WOne of Tim’s eighth graders inquired about his “favorite Italian brain rot animal,” leading to some confusion. “My hearing isn’t the best, so I probably had to ask her to repeat it four or five times,” he reflects.

Tim (not his actual name) was aware of the phrase “brain corruption.” According to Oxford University Press’s Words of the Year for 2024, but he was puzzled by the Italian reference.

After instructing the students to continue their work, he opened his laptop and turned to Google.


He learned that “Italian Brain Corruption” involves a series of absurd, AI-generated animal characters with ridiculous Italian names (like Bombomini Gusini and Trippi Troppi), often showcased in TikTok videos with rapid, nonsensical Italian narration.

Essentially, it’s a meme popular among the emerging Generation Alpha (born 2010-2025) and the younger Gen Z (mostly born 1997-2012). For older individuals—whether they are heavily engaged online or consider themselves meme enthusiasts—it might seem perplexing, as Tim discovered while browsing.

As he shared his findings, he appeared horrified. “This one is Chimpanzee Banana: it’s a hybrid of a chimpanzee and a banana. Bombardiro Crocodilo is a crocodile that resembles a bomber plane. There are also characters that are just cappuccinos with legs…”

Ballerina Cappuccina. Photo: tiktok/@aironic.fun

That’s right, Ballerina Cappuccina: female ballet dancers are fused with coffee cups and often depicted in a relationship with Cappuccino Assassin (you can understand that).

“There’s a backstory to all these characters—lore,” Tim adds, pondering. “Some are even at war with each other, and there are songs about them.”

The kids in his class are intensely fascinated by it, unlike any trend Tim has seen before. “Once one person mentions it, the whole class starts buzzing. They’re obsessed with this Italian brain corruption.”

If you’re reading this and finding your own mind bewildered, it’s understandable. If you were born in a year that starts with a “1,” “Italian brain corruption” might not resonate with you.

However, its widespread popularity among the younger crowd is worth trying to understand, at least as a reflection of the evolution of online culture.

Tralala Rotralala. Photo: Tiktok

The first character to gain traction was Shark Sport Nike sneakers (three per fin); Torara Rotorarara. Shortly after, the voice of a male character first appeared, marking the start of Italian expressions on TikTok in early January.

New characters quickly proliferated on TikTok. Don Caldwell, Editor-in-Chief of Know Your Meme, identified Brr Brr Patapim as an example, describing it as a “material monkey that is also a tree.”

Tung Tung Tung Sahur. Photo: Tiktok/@noxaasht

Notably, there’s also brain rot in Indonesia. Tung Tung Tung Sahur (“This features a stick figure on a bat, telling people to wake up for food during Ramadan”) and Boneca Ambalabu (“A frog with a tire and human legs”) are examples.

Both are accompanied by AI-generated voices that, much like their Italian counterparts, aim to confuse rather than clarify.

“Audio is just as crucial, if not more so than visuals,” Caldwell explains. “They really amp it up, like Tra-la-.lero! tra-la-laLA!—that quintessential Italian sound.”

Is this offensive to Italians? “It seems like Italians are in on the joke,” Caldwell suggests. “I don’t think it is.”

The attraction of Italian (and Indonesian) brain corruption isn’t about being derogatory or harmful—it’s simply absurd.

Caldwell, who has been engaged with memes for 15 years, admits he doesn’t track every fleeting online trend. “But I genuinely enjoy this,” he remarks. “In my view, it’s the better side of memes.”

Bombardiro Crocodilo. Photo: Tiktok/@armenjiharhanyan

The simplicity and speed of creating these videos using tools like ChatGPT have contributed to the meme’s popularity. Users can prompt their AI to visualize something like Bombardiro Crocodilo in their preferred settings. “No prior video editing skills are necessary, nor do you have to use your own voice,” Caldwell notes.

For adults apprehensive of AI advancements, the Italian brain corruption can feel like a harmless indulgence. “It’s a non-threatening application of AI that doesn’t induce existential dread.”

Naturally, young people don’t view it in such a serious light. They spend more time online from an earlier age, significantly influencing digital culture. “You’ve got a super online kid today,” Caldwell remarks. “They grew up around iPads and TikTok, creating content and dictating the biggest cultural trends of the moment.”

Before Italian brain rot, there was the Skibidi Toilet meme, which spread virally from YouTube in 2023, captivating the younger generation of Gen Z, with millions of views.

Tim recalls discussing it in class: “The kids adore it. The term ‘Skibidi’ is now embedded in Gen Z and Gen Alpha vernacular.”

However, its meaning isn’t straightforward and is steeped in ironic ambiguity. “It can signify something good, something bad, or something bizarre… When they refer to it as ‘Skibidi,’ it’s a positive thing, and they’re laughing at it simultaneously.”

Both Skibidi Toilets and Italian brain corruption resist clear definitions, stimulating youthful imaginations with surreal imagery and crude humor while leaving adults scratching their heads with their more subdued humor.

Ebies.

“AI Art” isn’t just a shortcut for older users primarily active on Facebook, Caldwell states. Ebies example (please check). It increasingly cultivates its own lexicon, customs, and meanings that often elude many adults.

It’s intriguing to hear people declare that past memes were superior. Examine the originality of templates such as distracted boyfriends and layered visual jokes demonstrating endless possibilities for meaning-making. However, Caldwell—a millennial himself—suggests that Italian brain corruption represents another evolution in human creativity. “AI produces images, and text-to-speech gives voice, but the humor originates from the real person behind the screen.”

Tim is skeptical, noting that when he sets creative writing tasks for his class, many leap straight into their favorite Italian brain-rotting creatures. “I worry that the AI generation lacks moments for spontaneous imagination, as AI does so much for them. I tell them, ‘This must be entirely our creation. I don’t want chimpanzees bananini.'”

Nevertheless, he has started incorporating the students’ enthusiasm for Italian brain corruption into his lesson plans. In a multiple-choice quiz, one of the options is Tung Tung Tung Sahur.

He now confidently addresses his eighth graders. “My favorite is Blueberrinni Octopussini,” he shares. “It’s an octopus blended with blueberries.”

Do you have any thoughts on the topics discussed in this article? If you’d like to submit a response of up to 300 words for potential publication in our Letters section, please click here.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Police Expansion of Live Facial Recognition Cameras: A Shift Towards ‘General’ Surveillance

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Authorities anticipate that live facial recognition cameras may soon be “prevalent” across England and Wales, as indicated by internal documents revealing nearly 5 million face scans conducted last year.

A joint investigation by the Guardian and Liberty investigates showcases the rapid integration of this technology into UK law enforcement practices.

The government is simplifying police access to a wide range of image repositories, including passports and immigration databases, for past facial recognition searches, alongside significant financial investments in new hardware.

Live facial recognition entails real-time identification of faces captured by surveillance cameras, compared against a police watch list.

Conversely, retrospective facial recognition software allows police to match archived images from databases with those recorded on CCTV or similar systems.

The implementation of this technology is believed to be widespread in urban areas and transportation hubs across England and Wales, as noted in funding documents produced by South Wales Police and shared by the Metropolitan Police under the Freedom of Information Act.

The inaugural fixed live facial recognition camera is set to be trialed this summer in Croydon, located south of London.

This expansion comes despite the absence of any mention of facial recognition in the relevant congressional legislation.

Critics contend that police are permitted to “self-regulate” this technology, while there have been instances where previous algorithms disproportionately misidentified individuals from Black communities.

Following a 2020 Court of Appeals ruling that deemed South Wales Police’s live facial recognition practices unlawful, the Police College issued guidance emphasizing that “thresholds must be carefully set to enhance the likelihood of accurate alerts while keeping false alert rates within acceptable limits.”

There remains no statutory framework directing the standards or technology applied in this context.

Earlier this month, Police Minister Diane Johnson informed Congress that “we must evaluate whether a tailored legislative framework is necessary to govern the deployment of live facial recognition technology for law enforcement,” but further details from the Home Office are still pending.

Facial recognition cameras have been tested in London and South Wales since 2016; however, the pace at which police have adopted this technology has surged over the past year.

A survey conducted by the Guardian and Liberty revealed:

  • Last year, police scanned nearly 4.7 million faces using live facial recognition cameras—over double the figures from 2023. Data indicates that a minimum of 256 live recognition vans were operational in 2024.

  • Mobile units comprising 10 live facial recognition vans can be dispatched anywhere in the UK within a matter of days to bolster national capabilities, with eight police forces having deployed this technology, while the Met has four such vans.

  • Authorities are exploring a fixed infrastructure to establish a “safety zone” by deploying a network of live facial recognition cameras throughout London’s West End. Met officials indicated that this remains a viable option.

  • The force has nearly doubled the number of retrospective facial recognition searches on the National Police Database (PND) from 138,720 in 2023 to 252,798. The PND contains administrative mug shots, including many held unlawfully for individuals not formally charged or convicted of any offenses.

  • Over the past two years, more than 1,000 facial recognition searches have utilized the UK passport database, with officers increasingly accessing 110 matches from the Home Office immigration database last year. Authorities concluded that using a passport database for facial recognition “presents no risk.”

  • The Home Office is collaborating with the police to develop a new national facial recognition system termed strategic facial matchers, which will enable searches across various databases, including custody images and immigration records.

Lindsey Chiswick, Met’s Intelligence Director General and the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s Facial Recognition lead, stated that five out of five London residents support the police’s utilization of advanced technologies like facial recognition cameras, based on the survey findings.

Recently, registered sex offender David Chenelle, a 73-year-old from Lewisham, was sentenced to two years after being caught alone with a 6-year-old girl through live facial recognition technology. He had previously served nine years for 21 offenses involving children.

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In 2024, the Met arrested 587 individuals, with 424 of those arrests backed by live facial recognition technology, leading to formal charges.

Among those arrested, 58 registered sex offenders faced serious violations of their conditions, with 38 subsequently charged.

Chiswick noted: “Given the limited resources and time available, the demand is high, and we see criminals exploiting technology on an expansive scale.

“There’s a chance for law enforcement to evolve. Discussions about leveraging AI are abundant, but we must embrace the opportunities presented by technology and data.”

Chiswick emphasized that the Met’s approach is to “proceed cautiously and evaluate at each phase,” while noting that “there may be advantages to some form of framework or statutory guidance.”

The MET employs facial recognition cameras in contexts aimed at ensuring statistical significance regarding gender or ethnic bias in misidentification instances.

Chiswick remarked: “I refuse to utilize biased algorithms in London. Each instance carries weight. The government raises concerns: Is there no issue regarding artificial intelligence?

“When selecting an algorithm’s purchaser, determining the training data employed, and assessing the origin of the technology, testing it thoroughly is paramount; you are obliged to operate within a specific context.”

The Ministry of Home Affairs did not provide a comment upon request.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Who is Casey Means and Did Trump Appoint Her as Surgeon General?

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On Wednesday, President Trump remarked that, similar to general surgeons, doctors educated at Stanford have increasingly vocalized concerns about the influence of corporations on medicine and health.

Dr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a supporter of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expressed that founding medicine can lead to feelings of disillusionment. Last year, she and her sibling, Calley Means, gained attention after appearing on Tucker Carlson’s show, where Carlson serves as a White House health advisor and a former food industry lobbyist.

Dr. Means, trained as an ENT and head and neck surgeon, left her surgical training incomplete to pursue functional medicine, which focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease. Last year, she released a diet and self-help book titled “Good Energy: Amazing Connections between Metabolism and Infinite Health.” Before that, she was primarily known for founding a company that offered wearable glucose monitors for health tracking.

Her work emphasizes the rising prevalence of chronic diseases in the United States, addressing issues related to obesity, diabetes, infertility, chemical and drug therapies, and sedentary lifestyles among the American population.

In line with some of Kennedy’s skepticism regarding vaccines, Dr. Means urged the new administration to reconsider the liability protections granted to vaccine manufacturers in order to promote research into “cumulative effects” and the development of new vaccines.

“Emerging evidence suggests that the heavy burden of the current extensive vaccine schedule is impacting the health of vulnerable children,” she stated. I discussed this in my October newsletter.

Experts in child health remain strongly opposed to reducing the list of recommended vaccinations, warning that such modifications could result in severe outbreaks of infectious diseases. They also emphasize that the government is responsible for both the safety data used in vaccine licensing and that gathered post-implementation.

Dr. Means is spearheading a collaborative initiative to modify corporate-friendly practices concerning food and medical production and sales. This includes promoting healthier diets in public schools, researching chemical usage in American food products, advocating for warning labels on ultra-processed foods, restricting drug company advertising to patients on television, and mitigating the industry’s influence over food and drug regulators.

“American health is being compromised,” she stated. During a Senate Roundtable Event addressing food and nutrition in September, she remarked, “If the current trends persist, we will face social instability at best, diminishing America’s competitiveness, or at worst, a level of health disruption akin to genocide.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

20 State Attorneys General File Lawsuit Against Trump Administration to Reestablish Health Agencies

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On Monday, 20 state attorneys general filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration concerning mass shootings and the dismantling of agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The legal action, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James, asserts that the administration breached numerous laws and circumvented Congressional oversight by attempting to streamline HHS from 28 agencies to 15, while planning to lay off about 20,000 employees.

James stated, “This administration hasn’t streamlined the federal government. They’re blocking it. If you terminate scientists researching infectious diseases, silence medical professionals caring for pregnant individuals, shut down programs supporting firefighters and miners, or hinder children’s development, you’re not improving America’s health. You’re jeopardizing countless lives.”

The restructuring announcement by HHS came in late March as part of the Department of Government Efficiency’s initiative to reduce the federal workforce. The cuts included layoffs of 3,500 employees from the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 1,200 from the National Institutes of Health.

HHS indicated it will establish a new institution, referred to as the Healthy American regime, to take on some responsibilities formerly held by the agencies being dissolved, including programs focused on mental, environmental, or worker health.

Nonetheless, the lawsuit claims that the recent cuts have “severe, complicated, prolonged, and potentially irreversible” effects. The Attorney General emphasized in a press release that the restructuring impaired HHS’s ability to perform critical functions, disrupting mental health and substance abuse services, weakening responses to HIV/AIDS, and diminishing support for low-income families and individuals with disabilities.

Specifically, the Trump administration has let go of staff responsible for maintaining federal poverty guidelines, which are essential for determining food aid, housing assistance, and Medicaid eligibility, as well as reducing teams managing the low-income housing energy assistance program.

Half of the workforce from the Department of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services—one of the dissolved HHS agencies—has also been terminated. Consequently, the Attorney General reported that national investigations into drug use and health have come to a halt, and the federal team overseeing the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline has vanished.

The CDC has lost multiple labs that track infections, including those focusing on infectious diseases and tobacco control, as mentioned in the release. The team also monitored maternal mortality rates in the U.S. Additionally, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health has been disbanded, which previously played a role in screening workers’ health issues related to toxic exposure.

The Trump administration asserts that certain programs, such as the World Trade Center Health Program—which provides screening and treatment for 9/11-related illnesses—and health surveillance initiatives for coal miners will persist under the Healthy American administration. However, many NIOSH employees associated with these programs are facing administrative leave and potential termination by June, as indicated in an internal government memo obtained by NBC News.

The lawsuit filed on Monday demands that HHS dismantle the agency and cease its efforts to restore the vital programs that have been lost.

This lawsuit is not the first to contest the federal government’s downsizing efforts. A coalition of 23 attorneys general previously sued HHS in April over the termination of approximately $11 billion in public health funding. A federal judge temporarily blocked these cuts but has yet to issue a final ruling.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

ARC-AGI-2: Breakdown of Leading AI Model in Latest Artificial General Information Evaluation

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The ARC-AGI-2 benchmark is designed to be a difficult test for AI models

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The most sophisticated AI models present today are inadequate scores on new benchmarks designed to measure progress towards artificial general information (AGI), and brute-force computing power is not sufficient to improve as evaluators consider the cost of running the model.

There are many competing definitions of AGI, but it is generally thought to refer to AI capable of performing cognitive tasks that humans can do. To measure this, the ARC Awards Foundation previously began a test of reasoning ability called ARC-AGI-1. Last December, Openai announced that the O3 model scored highly in tests, with some asking if the company is approaching AGI achievement.

But now the new test, the ARC-AGI-2, has raised the bar. Although current AI systems on the market are difficult enough to not achieve a score of over 100 digits of 100 in tests, all questions have been answered by at least two people on less than two attempts.

in Blog post Introducing the ARC-AGI-2, ARC president Greg Kamradt said a new benchmark is needed to test skills that differ from previous iterations. “To beat it, you need to demonstrate both high levels of adaptability and high efficiency,” he writes.

The ARC-AGI-2 benchmark differs from other AI benchmark tests in that it focuses on the ability to match the world’s leading PHD performance, but on the ability to complete simple tasks, such as replicating new image changes based on past examples of iconic interpretations. The current model is superior to “deep learning” measured by ARC-AGI-1, but not so good for seemingly simple tasks that require more challenging thinking and interaction with ARC-AGI-2. For example, Openai’s O3-low model won 75.7% on the ARC-AGI-1, but only 4% on the ARC-AGI-2.

This benchmark also adds a new dimension to measure AI capabilities by examining the efficiency of problem solving, as measured at the cost required to complete the task. For example, ARC paid a human tester $17 per task, while O3-low estimates that it would cost $200 for the same task.

“I think ARC-AGI’s new iteration, which now focuses on balancing performance and efficiency, is a major step towards a more realistic evaluation of the AI ​​model,” he says. Joseph Imperial At the University of Bath, UK. “This is a sign that we are moving from a one-dimensional evaluation test that is not only focusing on performance, but also considering a decline in computing power.”

Models that can pass the ARC-AGI-2 should not only be very capable, but also be smaller and lighter, Imperial says. Model efficiency is a key component of the new benchmark. This helps address concerns that AI models are becoming more energy-intensive – Sometimes to the point of waste – to achieve much better results.

However, not everyone is convinced that the new measure will be beneficial. “The whole framing of this to test intelligence is not the correct framing.” Catherine Frick At Staffordshire University, UK. Instead, these benchmarks are extrapolated to imply general functionality across a set of tasks, simply by assessing the ability of AI to properly complete a single task or a set of tasks.

Working well with these benchmarks should not be seen as a major moment for AGI, Flick said:

And another question is what will happen if ARC-AGI-2 is given, or when it is given. Do you need yet another benchmark? “If they develop ARC-AGI-3, I guess they’ll add another axis to the graph [the] The minimum number of humans – whether expert or not, it will take a task to solve, in addition to performance and efficiency,” says Imperial. In other words, discussions about AGI rarely resolve immediately.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

DESI’s Latest Observations Confirm General Relativity’s Predictions

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astronomer using dark energy spectrometer The most advanced instrument (DESI) aboard NSF's Nicholas U. Mayall 4-meter Telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory maps how nearly 6 million galaxies cluster together over 11 billion years of the universe's history I did. Their results provide one of the most rigorous tests of Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity to date.

This artist's impression shows the evolution of the universe, starting with the Big Bang on the left and continuing with the emergence of the Cosmic Microwave Background. The formation of the first stars ends the Dark Ages of the universe, followed by the formation of galaxies. Image credit: M. Weiss / Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

“General relativity has been very well tested at the scale of the solar system, but we also needed to test whether our assumptions work on even larger scales,” said the CNRS and Institute for Nuclear and High Energy Research. said cosmologist Dr. Pauline Zarouk. Physics.

“Studying the rate of galaxy formation allows us to directly test our theory, and so far it is consistent with what general relativity predicts on cosmological scales.”

In a new study, Dr. Zarouk and his colleagues found that gravity behaves as predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity.

This result validates our main model of the universe and limits the possibility of a modified theory of gravity. Modified gravity theories have been proposed as an alternative way to explain unexpected observations, such as the accelerated expansion of the universe, which is usually attributed to dark energy.

This complex analysis uses around 6 million galaxies and quasars, allowing researchers to look up to 11 billion years into the past.

Today's results provide an expanded analysis of DESI's first year of data. DESI created the largest 3D map of the universe to date in April, revealing hints that dark energy may be evolving over time.

April's results examine a particular feature of how galaxies cluster together, known as baryon acoustic oscillations (BAOs).

The new analysis expands the scope by measuring how galaxies and matter are distributed across the universe at different scales.

The study also improved constraints on the mass of neutrinos, the only fundamental particle whose mass has not yet been precisely measured.

Neutrinos slightly affect the clustering pattern of galaxies, which can be measured by the quality of the DESI data.

The DESI constraints are the most stringent to date and complement those from laboratory measurements.

The study required months of additional work and cross-checking. As with the previous study, they used a method that kept the results of the study hidden from the scientists until the end, reducing unconscious bias.

“This research is one of the important projects of the DESI experiment to learn not only fundamental aspects of particles, but also fundamental aspects of the large-scale universe, such as the distribution of matter and the behavior of dark energy.” he said. Dr. Stephanie Juneau is an astronomer in NSF's NOIRLab and a member of the DESI Collaboration.

“By comparing the evolution of the distribution of matter in the universe with existing predictions, such as Einstein's theory of general relativity and competing theories, we are further narrowing down the possibilities for the gravitational model.”

“Dark matter makes up about a quarter of the universe, and dark energy makes up another 70%, but we don't actually know what either is,” says Dr. Mark Maus. student at Berkeley Lab and the University of California, Berkeley.

“The idea that we can take pictures of the universe and address these big fundamental questions is amazing.”

The DESI Collaboration today shared its results below. some papers in arXiv.org.

Source: www.sci.news

NASA Inspector General Criticizes Boeing’s Quality Control With Scathing Review

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Many of the deficiencies identified in the report were not addressed.

Boeing’s response processes for past defects have been ineffective, and the company has not been responsive in taking corrective action for recurring quality control issues,” the company stated.

When asked for comment, a Boeing representative directed NBC News to NASA.

In a written response included in the report, Katherine Corner, deputy administrator for NASA Headquarters’ Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, emphasized NASA’s commitment to the highest technical and programmatic standards.

NASA is dedicated to ensuring that its personnel and contractors are qualified, well-trained, and prioritize mission safety,” Corner expressed.

The report suggested various recommendations, such as imposing financial penalties on Boeing for not meeting quality control standards. However, NASA opted not to levy any financial penalties.

The Space Launch System, standing at 322 feet tall, along with the Orion spacecraft, aims to launch astronauts to the moon to establish a base on its surface.

NASA successfully conducted an uncrewed test flight of the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft in 2022 (Artemis I mission). The following year, four astronauts are scheduled for a crewed flight around the moon (Artemis II mission).

Aside from the first-generation SLS rocket, NASA is also working on a more powerful model capable of carrying more cargo to the moon, led by Boeing as the prime contractor for the enhanced upper stage, known as the Space Launch System Block 1B, with work commencing in 2014.

Originally, an improved rocket system was planned to transport Artemis 2 astronauts into lunar orbit, but this timeline adjustment delayed development and raised costs, as stated by the inspector general.

According to a new report, the Block 1B version of the SLS could potentially cost up to $5.7 billion per launch.

This assessment marks a setback for NASA’s lunar return program, plagued by delays and budget overruns. Over the span of more than a decade, the agency has invested over $42 billion in the Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft.

Last year, NASA’s inspector general estimated each Artemis launch to cost $4.2 billion.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

British General Practitioners Utilize Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Cancer Detection Rates by 8% | Health

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Utilizing artificial intelligence to analyze GP records for hidden patterns has significantly improved cancer detection rates for doctors.

The “C the Signs” AI tool used by general practitioner practices has increased cancer detection rates from 58.7% to 66.0%. This tool examines patients’ medical records, compiling past medical history, test results, prescriptions, treatments, and personal characteristics like age, postcode, and family history to indicate potential cancer risks.

Additionally, the tool prompts doctors to inquire about new symptoms and recommends tests or referrals for patients if it detects patterns suggesting a heightened risk of certain cancer types.

Currently in use in about 1,400 practices in England, “C the Signs” was tested in 35 practices in the East of England in May 2021, covering 420,000 patients.

Published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, a study revealed that cancer detection rates rose from 58.7% to 66.0% by March 31, 2022, in clinics using the system, while remaining similar in those that did not utilize it.

Dr. Bea Bakshi, who developed “C the Signs” with colleague Miles Paling, emphasized the importance of early and quick cancer diagnosis through their system detecting over 50 types of cancer.

The tool was validated in a previous study analyzing 118,677 patients, where 7,295 were diagnosed with cancer and 7,056 were accurately identified by the algorithm.

Notably, the system’s ability to predict if a patient was unlikely to have cancer resulted in only 2.8% of these cases being confirmed with cancer diagnosis within six months.

Concerned by delays in cancer diagnosis, Bakshi developed the tool after witnessing a patient’s late pancreatic cancer diagnosis three weeks before their death, highlighting the importance of early detection.

“With two-thirds of deaths from untestable cancers, early diagnosis is crucial,” Bakshi emphasized.

In the UK, GPs follow National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines to decide when to refer patients for cancer diagnosis, guided by tools like “C the Signs.”

The NHS’s long-term cancer plan aims to diagnose 75% of cancers at stage 1 or 2 by 2028, utilizing innovative technologies like the Garelli blood test for early cancer detection.

Decision support systems like “C the Signs,” improving patient awareness of cancer symptoms, and enhancing access to diagnostic technologies are essential for effective cancer detection, according to healthcare professionals.

NHS England’s national clinical director for cancer, Professor Peter Johnson, highlighted the progress in increasing early cancer diagnoses and access to timely treatments, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology for improved cancer care.

Source: www.theguardian.com

General practitioner discusses the concealed health dangers of wearing shapewear

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Shapewear, also known as body shaping underwear, has gained immense popularity in recent years. In a society that values appearance and self-image, shapewear is seen as a quick and affordable solution to boost self-confidence by enhancing the fit and look of various outfits.

Functioning like a modern corset, shapewear targets areas like the waist, hips, thighs, and buttocks to compress and shape them, aiming to improve the fit of clothes and provide a sleeker silhouette, as suggested by marketing claims.

With advancements in fabric technology, modern shapewear is now more comfortable and breathable than ever before, appealing to a wide range of individuals seeking aesthetic and functional support for various occasions. It has become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of social media influencing body image awareness.

Unlike traditional shapewear made from rigid materials like steel and whalebone, modern shapewear uses breathable and stretchy fabrics such as spandex, nylon, and lycra. It is now popular among both men and women for its comfort and effectiveness.

Available in different styles and compression levels, shapewear caters to various needs. Certain types, such as waist cinchers and tummy control panties, target specific body parts to provide support and shape.

In addition to these, there are thigh shapers, torso-compressing camisoles, butt lifters with padding, and leg and arm shapers. Some companies even offer full bodysuits with built-in bras for total body shaping.

Sports compression clothing, while similar, focuses on enhancing athletic performance and muscle support rather than aesthetic enhancement. Designed with advanced breathable fabrics and graduated compression, sports compression wear is intended for physical activity and recovery periods.

Although shapewear appears to offer a convenient way to enhance confidence and fit, it does come with certain drawbacks to consider. Issues like digestive problems, circulatory and neurological issues, breathing problems, and skin irritation can arise from wearing shapewear, particularly if it is too tight.

When choosing shapewear, it’s important to select a comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement and to avoid wearing it for extended periods. Opting for breathable fabrics and hypoallergenic materials can help reduce the risk of skin irritation.

In conclusion, while shapewear can provide temporary aesthetic benefits, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and health when using it. Remember, true confidence comes from within, and it’s crucial to listen to your body’s needs.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Exploring the impact of TikTok on the 2024 general election in UK politics

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If a week is a long time in politics, five years between elections feels like an eternity in the UK. The political landscape has changed dramatically since the Conservative Party’s landslide victory in 2019, but so has the social media landscape.

In 2019, TikTok was “the video-sharing app that became phenomenally popular among teenagers,” according to a commentator at The Guardian.

Fast forward to 2023 and an Ofcom investigation has found that: 10% of people aged 16 and over The number of people saying they get their news from TikTok is higher than BBC Radio 1 and on par with the Guardian, a significant increase from 1% in 2020 after the last election.

While some say the so-called battle over TikTok has been exaggerated, the platform’s creators are well aware that there is an audience among TikTok users, young and old, who enjoys political content.

To understand how the 2024 election unfolded on TikTok, we monitored the platform for one hour per day for a week using four separate accounts, searching for the widely used tag “#ukpolitics” as well as campaign-specific hashtags and terms.

Before we begin, a few disclaimers: No one outside TikTok knows how TikTok’s algorithm works, nor do we know whether and how the algorithm can be manipulated to promote certain content.

The platform is also notoriously difficult to measure: there’s no “most popular” section, so the sample is just a snapshot of what people saw on the site for one hour each day for one week over the duration of the campaign.

Straight TikTok: “Traditional” News for a New Audience

If you think of TikTok as all dance crazes, lip-sync challenges, and make-up artist tutorials, you’d be right – but you’ll also find some familiar faces, including BBC and ITV news anchors, LBC radio presenters, and broadcast journalists.

…

Conspiracy theorist

We found very few accounts spreading conspiracy theories, at least in the sample we collected, but they do exist.

While we do not intend to help conspiracy theorists by spreading their videos more widely on this platform, topics we saw included false claims that Labour would introduce Sharia law if it came to power.

Again, it is not known why such content was served, but AI Forensics warns that such content could be amplified by a “secret recipe” hidden in the platforms’ algorithms.

“Engagement can be both good and bad, so polarized discussions around extreme views and hate speech can drive up engagement metrics,” Romano said.

At least three accounts initially identified as containing conspiracy theories were removed during the investigation, though it is unclear whether this was of the accounts’ own volition or if they were removed by TikTok.

Source: www.theguardian.com