Tag Archives: Key

“Roadging” Marathon: Has Gen Z Unearthed the Key to Reclaiming Focus? | Young Adults

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Name: Raw dog marathon.

Year: In a therapeutic sense, it’s quite recent.

Exterior: To be fair, it doesn’t really appear that way.

What is it? Initially, raw dogging referred to engaging in sex without a condom.

Is that why there are marathons? However, over time, it has evolved to mean undertaking activities without preparation, protection, or distractions.

What else fits this description? Pretty much everything: Taking an exam unprepared can jeopardize your success. Facing a long flight without entertainment could be challenging. Are you venturing out alone? Or remaining sober? That’s raw dogging.

So, should you run a marathon without any training, a raw marathon? Sometimes, people may interpret it that way, but such behavior is discouraged and not the focus of our discussion.

So, does a raw dog marathon imply doing something for an extended duration? No, it means doing nothing for a prolonged period.

I’m a bit lost. Specifically, it refers to remaining still for long spans while staring into space. Most importantly, avoid using your cell phone.

Can I listen to music? No.

Can I read a magazine? No.

Can I shower or stay in bed? No.

Why not? Because we’re engaging in raw sex!

How long should I do it? That’s up to you. Recently, a “Productivity Influencer” named Rowan filmed himself live with a dog while studying for an hour daily to enhance his focus.

What happened to the footage? He shared it on TikTok.

How can others view what he’s doing on his phone? No need to worry. To prevent boredom, he condensed the hour into a 30-second timelapse.

The irony of that isn’t lost on me. What were the outcomes? He discovered it helped improve concentration and productivity, inspiring many of his followers.

It seems like the TikTok generation has somehow reinvented meditation. This may come off as a bit arrogant, but today’s youth face overwhelming distractions. While older generations learned to endure boredom, this generation must learn to cultivate it.

But who enjoys being bored? Many neuroscientists believe that boredom is beneficial and a vital stimulus for creative thinking.

Remember: “Time spent away from your phone is never wasted.”

Please avoid saying: “Hey, I just completed a raw dog marathon. No headphones, no water, no shoes. I got discharged from the hospital on Tuesday.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Nanoparticles Could Be the Key to Creating the Perfect Plastic

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Enhancing PVC Pipes with Nanoparticles

Credits: Valentyn Semenov/Alamy

The addition of nanoparticles may provide a solution to a longstanding challenge in the plastic manufacturing industry. The question remains: how can we develop materials that are robust, durable, and easy to handle?

Hu-Jun Qian from Jilling University in China and his team refer to this dilemma as the plastic trilemma. Enhancing the polymer’s deformability often becomes challenging, leading to materials that are either overly viscous or difficult to manipulate.

To tackle this, the researchers incorporated polystyrene-based nanoparticles into several widely used plastics. For instance, they enhanced PEMA, a polymer commonly used in manufacturing hearing aids, artificial nails, acrylic glass for aquariums and glasses, as well as PVC used in construction and packaging.

The team subjected the modified material to various tests to determine its stretching capacity before failure. Overall, the newly developed materials exhibited improved performance across multiple assessments, sometimes showing remarkable differences. The findings indicated that PEMA became about 50% stronger with the inclusion of nanoparticles. “This lays down essential design principles for next-generation polymers featuring previously unattainable property combinations,” Qian explains.

To further investigate the advantages of incorporating nanoparticles, the researchers also performed computer simulations of the new materials. These simulations indicated that nanoparticles could shift and redistribute within the material under stress, enabling a slow and smooth deformation rather than catastrophic failure. This mobility was equally advantageous for plastics that become more fluid when molten, making them stronger, more durable, and viable.

Qian notes that this innovative approach aligns with existing industrial processes and can be scaled up effectively. “This method could transform applications needing lightweight, durable, and easily manufactured materials, including composites for automotive and aerospace, sustainable packaging, biomedical devices, and highly recyclable plastics,” he asserts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Key Concepts for Improving Plastic Recycling

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“To enhance both plastic recycling and reuse, brands should utilize similar packaging for products within the same category.”

Elaine Knox

Since its inception in 1899, the US National Biscuit Company has utilized packaging as a marketing strategy by wrapping Uneda soda crackers in wax paper inside cardboard boxes. Over the decades, businesses have increasingly turned to plastics, making unique packaging a key component for establishing brand identity.

However, the fragile economics of plastic recycling are deteriorating, compounded by the complexity introduced by varying pigments, materials, and more. Currently, only 10% of plastic packaging is recycled globally. In contrast, reusable packaging remains in a niche market.

There are effective and straightforward methods to enhance both the recycling and reuse of plastics, such as having brands adopt similar packaging for products in the same category.

Initially, prioritize recycling. Despite decades of consumer awareness and infrastructure investments, managing various plastic types into specific subcategories remains prohibitively costly. Eliminating pigments and sorting by color is expensive, leading to many plastic varieties being downcycled into gray pipes and construction materials. The supply chain is inconsistent and fragmented, with virgin plastics remaining cheaper, resulting in a lack of reliable buyers for most recycled plastics.

Standardization could significantly improve this situation. If product categories adopt uniform guidelines for plastic types, colors, labels, and adhesives, recyclers could potentially recover much more material at a reduced cost. This would enhance economic viability for recycling and facilitate the vision of producing new bottles from old ones.

The case for standardized reuse systems is equally compelling. Presently, many brands experimenting with reuse employ different containers, necessitating individual return points coupled with specialized cleaning equipment and quality assurance checks, which adds costs and complexity while reducing convenience. Systems based on standardized packaging and shared infrastructure could capture 40% of the market through a more consolidated approach, as noted by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

While standardized packaging might seem anti-capitalistic to some, many brands already produce similar packaging, such as milk jugs in the UK and toothpaste tubes in various countries. Standardization does not imply that all products must look identical. Brands can still employ unique labels, washable inks, embossing, and other distinguishing features. They can also maintain their own shapes and sizes.

It’s undoubtedly challenging to envision competitors like Procter & Gamble and Unilever willingly agreeing to package shampoo in identical bottles. However, with billions lost annually due to single-use plastics, where data ends up incinerated or in landfills, research increasingly highlights health risks associated with unstudied chemicals in plastics. Brands may find it challenging to safeguard their interests. Legally, it could be argued that the harm stemming from customized packaging outweighs the advantages of standardized containers.

More brands might soon have little choice. Regulatory frameworks are evolving in Europe and other regions, focusing on reuse targets and increased recycled content. Standardized packaging offers brands a pathway to meet these objectives while minimizing complexity and cost increases.

Undoubtedly, like-colored shampoo bottles won’t solve all issues, but such changes are becoming increasingly sound from a business perspective. Without them, achieving truly circular packaging remains a distant goal.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Six Key Insights from Psychologists on Understanding Anxiety

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Anxiety is a multifaceted and widespread mental health issue impacting millions globally. It manifests in various ways, with many individuals feeling that anxiety can be overwhelming and disrupt day-to-day activities.

How can you identify if anxiety is problematic? Additionally, what are the underlying causes of anxiety? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is anxiety?

Essentially, anxiety is an emotional state characterized by nervousness, often coupled with negative thoughts and physical symptoms. While it may center around specific upcoming events or challenges, it can also evolve into a more generalized anxiety about the future.

Breaking it down further, anxiety involves thoughts, emotions, and actions. For instance, if you joke about yourself during a meeting, it might lead to feelings of nausea, causing you to skip the meeting altogether. This decision, while it may provide temporary relief, can exacerbate anxiety in the long run, creating a cycle of avoidance.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety often begins with negative anticipatory thoughts. For example, you might worry that an upcoming exam will be too challenging, leading to failure, or that something might go wrong during a flight. These thoughts can trigger a fear response in your brain, releasing hormones that activate your sympathetic nervous system, particularly adrenaline, preparing your body to either confront or escape a perceived threat.

In genuinely dangerous situations, this response can be life-saving. However, unhealthy anxiety may result in false alarms, prompting your body to react vigorously despite the absence of real danger.

Other factors contributing to anxiety can include past traumatic experiences, certain medications that provoke fearful thoughts, or medical conditions like hyperthyroidism that disrupt hormones related to fear.

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What does it feel like?

Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to discomfort through symptoms like a racing heart, sweaty palms, dizziness, trembling, stomach issues, and nausea.

Individuals with chronic anxiety may find these physical sensations particularly troubling, further intensifying their anxiety. For example, someone anxious about public speaking may feel their hands shake or their stomach flutter, compounding their stress.

Mentally, anxiety often triggers a cascade of fearful thoughts and incessant worries. Coupled with physical symptoms, this situation can lead to a strong desire to flee or avoid anxiety-inducing scenarios, making avoidance appear appealing despite it being counterproductive over time.

Those suffering from anxiety may tend to be devastated. Photo: Joe Waldron

When does anxiety become a problem?

Experiencing anxiety occasionally is entirely normal. In fact, moderate levels of anxiety can be beneficial (as boxing coach Cus d’Amato once noted, anxiety is like fire: it can be destructive, but when controlled, it’s a valuable resource for warmth and cooking).

For instance, moderate anxiety about a job interview can motivate adequate preparation, which is preferable to arriving unprepared. Similarly, a mild anxiety boost during the interview may help you think more clearly.

Anxiety becomes problematic when it spirals out of control (e.g., being so anxious during exams that you can’t focus) or becomes chronic and overwhelming.

A significant warning sign is when anxiety leads to avoidance behavior. For example, avoiding travel due to fear of flying can narrow your life experience and lead to feelings of unhappiness, denying you the chance to learn how to manage worry-inducing situations.

Avoidance may also manifest as reliance on ineffective coping strategies that only mask anxiety in the short term while exacerbating it over time. In contrast, confronting anxiety can be daunting initially but may be the better path toward long-term relief.

Is anxiety a mental disorder?

If a person experiences significant anxiety for many days over a period of more than six months across various situations, they may be diagnosed with “generalized anxiety disorder.”

There are also specific anxiety disorders. For example, someone with intense anxiety tied to social situations may be diagnosed with “social anxiety disorder,” while frequent panic attack concerns may lead to a diagnosis of “panic disorder.”

Specific phobias, such as agoraphobia (fear of situations where escape might be difficult), are recognized as forms of anxiety disorders. Other conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) were formerly categorized as anxiety disorders, but psychiatrists now classify them distinctly, despite their anxiety connections.

In PTSD, traumatized individuals often remain in hyper-alert states, perpetually poised for a fight or flight response. In OCD, individuals may resort to compulsive behaviors as ineffective attempts to mitigate feelings of anxiety.

Are some people more prone to anxiety than others?

Genetics and life experiences jointly shape our personality traits, which can influence susceptibility to anxiety. Particularly, individuals scoring high in neuroticism tend to experience frequent mood swings and negative emotions like shame and guilt, increasing their worry.

Conversely, those who exhibit higher levels of trust and lower stress levels in interpersonal relationships are often less susceptible to anxiety. Additionally, evidence suggests that extroverted individuals have a lower likelihood of developing anxiety, especially in social scenarios.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

A Stylish Brew: My Ultimate Kettle Showdown and Key Takeaways | Home

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“sTeamy Windows! “I belted out a Tina Turner classic.


Aside from the humidity that turns hair to icicles—I felt like I was staring at a plug socket for two days—the primary challenge was figuring out how to evaluate the kettle. They all essentially perform the same function, though they’ve evolved somewhat over the decades. Some models from the 1970s could fit right into a modern kitchen today. Beyond foundational features, good kettles hold on to basic qualities that make them user-friendly.

Infini-tea and beyond

Until now, my contributions to filtering have relied on tangible results. We tested the hues of our homemade chips and crispy snacks to determine which were superior and which fell short. Before that, my kitchen was a blend of blender chaos (the right term for this scenario). Once again, the creamiest smoothies and soups pointed to appliances featuring the sharpest blades and strongest motors.

In the case of kettles, it became evident that gadgets which had the best boiling capabilities required a closer inspection. So I embarked on heating water armed with a power meter, infrared thermometer, a cell phone running decibel X, another phone serving as a timer, and a probe thermometer—among other tools. I could brew enough hot beverages for my entire street and a couple of friends. Gradually, my kitchen resembled a tropical rainforest.

However, simply testing which kettle brewed better wasn’t the only metric; we also assessed other specific aspects such as build quality, the minimum fill requirement—should you always boil 0.5 liters when only 200ml is needed—and value for money—what you truly get for your investment.

It’s simply the best

After thorough evaluation, I arrived at my top recommendation: the Bosch Sky Kettle (£100), which offers a great balance of speed, design, and insulation to keep water hot longer, making it ideal for most households. For those on a tighter budget, the Kenwood Ripple Kettle (£32) stood out as my top economical choice, combining style and functionality with quick boiling times and varied color options.

Of course, upon learning that Gen Z is skipping kettles in favor of less energy-efficient microwaves, one might question the relevance of my tests. Yet, in tribute to Tina, my undercover product tester, it seems necessary to know which kettle truly reigns supreme when it’s time to replace yours.

This week’s picks

Editor’s Pick




Glory Blade: Handle with care, and this knife will serve you well for years. Photo: 10’000 hours/Getty Image

A quality knife is a worthwhile investment, so it’s essential to maintain it. Food writer and co-associate editor of Feast, Anna Beril, consulted experts for tips on extending the lifespan of your knives.

We also covered advice on caring for everything from smartphones to leather goods and coffee makers. In the long run, you’ll save money and help reduce landfill waste. What additional topics would you like us to explore in this newsletter? Let us know.

Hannah Booth
Editor, Filter

Just in case you missed it…




Apaitivo Hour from Shinshin this bank holiday weekend! Photo: Vershinin/Getty Images

Joanne Gould sampled the finest spritzers (all on the lighter end of the alcohol spectrum) ranging from apple and ginger liqueurs to rhubarb syrup. Serve with ice, prosecco, and salted potato chips (Felicity Cloak recently evaluated the best salted potato chips for us). If you’re curious about what it’s like to test alcoholic beverages for a living, Joan shared insights with us last week. Cheers!

Get Involved




Everything but the kitchen sink? Share your essential Smart Student Digs kit list. Photo: Solstock/Getty Images

Are you a student or a parent? Which items have proven indispensable for undergraduate life and settling in? Also, what modifications did you make to your accommodation that were ultimately unnecessary? Reply to this newsletter or email thefilter@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Cats Can Experience Dementia: A Potential Key to New Treatments for Humans

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Cats that exhibit dementia-like symptoms in their senior years undergo changes analogous to those seen in humans with Alzheimer’s disease, as highlighted in a study I found. This finding may open pathways for new research and help in discovering treatments for these challenging and notorious diseases.

“Our advancements in treating Alzheimer’s disease have been relatively limited compared to other illnesses,” stated Dr. Robert McGeechan, the study’s lead author, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

“Cats are experiencing similar neurological changes, making them potentially more relevant models for understanding the disease. By investigating Alzheimer’s in cats, we can develop treatments that might be more effective for humans.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, encompassing a range of neurodegenerative conditions that impair memory, problem-solving, language, and behavior. Approximately one in nine individuals over 65 are affected by Alzheimer’s, and with an aging global population, over 150 million people could be diagnosed by 2050.

Yet, despite decades of investigation and billions spent, only a handful of effective treatments exist today.

How Cats Develop Dementia

The understanding that cats can show dementia-like symptoms with age is not new. According to some research, nearly one-third of cats aged 11 to 14 exhibit at least one sign of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), the veterinary term for dementia in felines. For cats older than 15, this figure increases to over half.

CD symptoms in cats, which resemble those in humans with Alzheimer’s, include changes in sleep patterns and disorientation. Many cats also become more vocal and often seek additional comfort and attention from their owners.

It is also known that, similar to humans, older cats typically develop an accumulation of amyloid beta plaques in their brains, which are suspected to play a role in the onset of Alzheimer’s.

“As we age, humans develop these protein plaques in our brains. However, not everyone with these plaques develops Alzheimer’s, and the reasons for this remain unclear,” McGeechan explained.

“We were similarly situated with cats, knowing they could develop dementia and that some produce these proteins as they grow older, but we lacked clarity on whether this was solely age-related or if it contributed to dementia.”

To delve deeper, McGeechan’s team examined the brains of 25 cats of varying ages post-mortem, including those with CDS symptoms.

They discovered that amyloid beta plaques were not just passively situated in the brain but were also linked to detrimental changes. Notably, they observed increased inflammation and signs of glial cells, the immune cells of the brain, “enveloping” the synapses surrounding these protein plaques.

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Synapses are tiny junctions enabling brain cells to communicate, and their progressive loss is believed to underlie many memory and behavioral symptoms associated with dementia.

The findings imply that a similar toxic chain reaction may also occur in feline brains. As amyloid beta accumulates, it activates glial cells, leading to the degradation of healthy synapses. While this broader pattern was evident, the finer details proved to be more intricate.

Upon comparing the brains across different age groups, subtle differences emerged. Cats with dementia appeared significantly different from younger cats, exhibiting greater amyloid plaque accumulation, inflammation, and synaptic loss. However, they did not starkly differ from older, yet otherwise healthy cats.

This observation indicates that researchers might struggle to draw a clear line between aging and dementia.

Yet, the team noted an important distinction concerning the relationship between amyloid plaques and synaptic damage. In older, healthy cats, increased amyloid did not equate to more harm. However, in cats with dementia, higher plaque levels correlated with increased inflammation and greater brain cell loss.

McGeechan posits that this mirrors human scenarios. Numerous older adults accumulate amyloid plaques in their brains without developing Alzheimer’s, while others experience significant cognitive decline.

“Amyloid may have a more toxic impact on cats experiencing CDS,” he noted. “This correlation suggests amyloid plays a role in inflammation and synaptic loss in the dementia group, unlike in the aging group.”

Thus, while amyloid accumulation may contribute to feline dementia, it likely does not tell the full story. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, a complex interplay of various factors may also be at play.

MRI image of a cat’s brain exhibiting signs of cognitive dysfunction. The lighter areas on the edges illustrate regions of tissue loss.

The Significance of Cats in Research

Alzheimer’s disease research has historically depended on rodents, where diseases are artificially induced by genetic manipulation.

While these models aid in exploring molecular mechanisms, they often fall short of encapsulating the intricacies of naturally occurring diseases that unfold over time. Consequently, numerous promising drugs that succeed in mice fail when tested on humans.

In contrast, cats naturally develop dementia as they age, mirroring the human experience. They also share the same living environments and risk factors, including diet and air quality.

This similarity renders them a more realistic model for understanding disease biology and identifying environmental triggers that might push certain individuals towards dementia.

“Cats could serve as a bridge in our pursuit of effective treatments,” McGeechan expressed.

Future Directions

At this point, the findings raise just as many inquiries as they resolve. Given that the study involved only 25 cats, a larger sample size may be necessary to clarify the precise mechanisms underlying the observed clinical outcomes, according to McGeechan.

Another area of focus is tau. Besides amyloid beta, tau is another key protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike amyloid plaques, tau forms tangles within brain cells. Many researchers believe tau drives the most severe stages of the disease in humans, but this investigation did not address tau in cats.

Dogs may also present a valuable avenue for exploration. Like cats, they can age into a dementia-like syndrome, displaying symptoms recognizable to many owners, such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and forgetfulness. Comparing the brains of dogs and cats might reveal shared biological processes across species.

Ultimately, this body of research holds promise not just for human health.

“Dementia in cats is a distressing condition for both the animals and their owners,” remarked Professor Danièlle Gunn-Moore, a co-author of the study and a chair in feline medicine at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Medicine.

“Conducting such research aims to enhance our understanding of how best to treat these conditions. This work benefits not just cats and their owners but also individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones. Dementia in cats serves as an ideal natural model to study Alzheimer’s disease.”

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About Our Experts

Robert McGeechan is a resident in Veterinary Neurology and Neurosurgery and serves as an ECAT Veterinary Clinical Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, UK. His research has been published in European Journal of Neuroscience, Scientific Reports, and Nature Neuroscience.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Impact of Microbiota Composition, pH, and Temperature on Key Flavor Characteristics of Premium Chocolate

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Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) bean fermentation is a natural process characterized by various interactions that influence the flavor profile of high-quality chocolate. By grasping these intricate interactions, one can effectively reproduce the sought-after flavor characteristics in a controlled environment. Research utilizing bean samples fermented at Columbia Farm has demonstrated that pH, temperature, and the composition of microbiota—encompassing both bacteria and fungi—significantly impact the essential flavor qualities of premium chocolate. This discovery lays the groundwork for developing fermentation starters aimed at consistently recreating the attributes of fine chocolate.

Gopaulchan et al. We have confirmed the previously suggested role of pH and temperature variations as reliable indicators of chocolate flavor properties. Image credit: Sci.News.

The creation of fermented products like chocolate relies on the metabolic activities of microbial communities.

These communities transform raw cocoa beans into essential precursors for chocolate production.

Once harvested, cocoa beans undergo several processing stages before becoming chocolate, but fermentation remains a spontaneous process.

“The distinctive flavor of chocolate is shaped by the fermentation of cocoa beans,” stated a representative from University of Nottingham.

“In contrast to the fermentation of wine, cheese, or dough, where specific microorganisms are added to enhance flavor, cocoa bean fermentation occurs naturally, and the microorganisms involved are not well understood.”

“The flavor profile of the beans is closely tied to the geographical location of the farm, resulting in variations in chocolate quality and taste.”

In this research, Dr. Castrillo and co-authors performed DNA sequence-based analyses on fermented cocoa beans from three separate farms in Colombia.

They discovered that a unique microbial community underpins the distinctive fermentation processes at Antioch farms, yielding a superior flavor, as validated by professional tasters.

By analyzing sequencing data, the authors identified the microbial interactions and metabolic pathways involved in fermentation.

This allowed for the design of microbial communities that could mimic the exquisite flavor of chocolate in laboratory settings. This was confirmed through evaluations by the same expert tasters and chocolate metabolite analyses.

Further studies could inform the development of industrial fermentation starters, eliminating the geographical limitations on chocolate flavor.

“The findings from this study enhance our understanding of how the composition of microbial communities during fermentation is a crucial factor in determining chocolate flavor properties,” stated the researchers.

“We have created a reliable methodology to design fermentation starters that facilitate the controlled domestication of the unpredictable microbial fermentations that occur on cocoa farms.”

“This paves the way for the evolution of the modern chocolate industry, akin to the beer and cheese sectors, based on regulated cocoa fermentation utilizing synthetic microbial starters that can consistently replicate the unique flavor characteristics of cocoa beans and chocolate.”

The team’s study was published in the journal Nature Microbiology this week.

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D. Gopaulchan et al. The defined microbial community recreates the attributes of finely flavored chocolate fermentation. Nat Microbiol Published online on August 18th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41564-025-02077-6

Source: www.sci.news

Ozempic: A Potential Key to Reversing Your Biological Age

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Growing evidence of Ozempic’s extensive health benefits

David J. Phillip / Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo

Ozempic, a medication for type 2 diabetes, has been linked to a deceleration in aging, with credible evidence emerging to support this claim.

Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which contain semaglutide, have been increasingly recognized for their impact on obesity and are being researched for various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, addiction, and dementia.

Previously, scientists speculated on their potential to slow biological aging, based primarily on animal studies and observational human data. However, recent clinical trial results offer direct evidence, according to Varun Dwaraka from Trudiagnostic, a diagnostics company based in Lexington, Kentucky.

To evaluate a drug’s impact on biological aging, researchers utilize epigenetic clocks, which highlight patterns of DNA methylation—a chemical modification that influences gene activity. These patterns evolve with age and can be adjusted by lifestyle factors, including diet. Essentially, an individual’s biological age might differ from their chronological age.

Dwaraka and his team examined 108 epigenetic clocks in individuals with HIV-related fat hypertrophy, a condition leading to excess fat accumulation and hastened cellular aging. In a randomized controlled trial, one group received Ozempic weekly for 32 weeks, while the control group received a placebo.


Using blood samples collected pre- and post-trial, the researchers determined the biological ages of 84 participants. “By the study’s conclusion, individuals administered semaglutide were, on average, biologically 3.1 years younger,” states Dwaraka. The placebo group showed no noteworthy changes. “Semaglutide not only decelerates aging but may also reverse it in certain participants,” he adds.

The research revealed that various organs and systems, particularly the heart and kidneys, exhibited slowed biological aging, with the most significant influences noticeable in the inflammatory system and brain.

Dwaraka attributes this phenomenon to semaglutide’s role in fat distribution and metabolic health. Excess fat surrounding organs can release pro-aging molecules that modify the DNA methylation of crucial age-related genes. Semaglutide effectively curtails low-grade inflammation, which is another contributor to epigenetic aging.

While the findings originated from individuals with HIV-associated fat hypertrophy, many of the biological pathways impacted by semaglutide are not unique to HIV. “Thus, similar effects on epigenetic aging may be expected in other populations,” asserts Dwaraka.

It’s not surprising that such drugs can decelerate aging, says Randy Shealy from the University of Michigan School of Medicine, as they alleviate metabolic stress on various cells and diminish inflammation—key drivers of aging throughout different cell types. However, he posits that much of the benefits arise from semaglutide improving overall health rather than direct cellular effects.

It remains to be seen if semaglutide should be taken to maintain biological youth. “It’s premature to widely recommend it as an anti-aging therapy,” Dwaraka cautions. Nonetheless, he believes this study will accelerate ongoing efforts to repurpose existing medications for age-related challenges, expediting approval processes while mitigating the risk of unforeseen side effects. “Semaglutide could become a leading candidate in this arena,” concludes Dwaraka.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Navigating Uncertainty During Key Life Stages Transforms Our Brains

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Pandemic. Conflict. Market crash. Government upheaval. A quick look at recent headlines conveys a sense of instability in the world. However, “volatility” isn’t just a concern for hedge fund managers; it holds crucial significance for our brains as well.

In my new book, The Trick of the Heart, the latest science suggests that the brain operates like a scientist. It constructs hypotheses and frameworks to understand the world, others, and even itself. However, if your brain is busy crafting a framework, it must also recognize when it’s time to adapt. This process involves a network of frontal and subcortical brain regions, with noradrenaline playing a vital role in monitoring how unstable our environment is.

This “volatility tracking” mechanism allows our brains to detect tipping points in the external world and adjust our expectations and hypotheses accordingly. This adaptability becomes crucial when our daily realities shift; as a result, our mental frameworks can become more flexible. This process is entirely adaptive and logical. After all, when circumstances are in flux, we want our minds to adjust as well.

Yet, in a transformative environment, having an open mind can present dangers. For instance, research conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic indicated that unexpected viruses and unprecedented lockdowns led some people to question what constitutes a normal mindset. A study in the US found that as lockdowns intensified across states, unstable thinking surged. Those who began perceiving their surroundings as insecure were more likely to endorse bizarre conspiracies related to the pandemic, such as the belief that vaccines contain mind-controlling microchips or support for political conspiracies like QAnon.

While these ideas may appear ludicrous, this behavior can be understood through the lens of brain function. Our minds need to remain malleable and resilient, adapting their paradigms based on a rapidly changing world. We must be willing to consider perspectives we’ve never previously entertained.

I actually believe that navigating uncertain times isn’t inherently detrimental for us or our brains. After all, unpredictability does not equate to inevitable doom; it simply means we can’t foresee what lies ahead. Historically, many periods of significant progress have emerged during times of upheaval when our familiar realities were disrupted. In the UK, support for women’s suffrage gained momentum after World War I, which also paved the way for a transformative welfare state and the establishment of a second National Health Service.

While I can’t travel back in time to observe the brains of those historical figures, I can imagine those moments of new opportunities functioning just like our minds do today. When our surrounding touchpoints appear unstable, old concepts can be discarded and new ones adopted.

Uncertainty and volatility are distinctly perceived based on how the brain operates. While volatility can induce anxiety, living amidst constant change opens our minds to new possibilities. We must remain alert to those who might exploit our adaptable minds towards extreme or conspiratorial concepts, but we can also embrace a brighter, more optimistic future by steering our cognitive processes toward pivotal changes.

Daniel Yong is the director and author of the Uncertainty Lab at Birkbeck, University of London. His book, The Trick of the Heart, delves into these themes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Navigating the Workforce Crisis: Key Insights for Alumni Battling AI in the Job Market

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  • 1. The current crisis has as much to do with economics as it does with AI

    According to Kirsten Barnes, head of Bright Network’s digital platform, the graduate labor market is facing challenges that are not uncommon.

    “Typically, fluctuations in the graduate job market hover around 10-15% this year, stemming from various factors such as the overall economic landscape and typical business demand changes, rather than being solely driven by AI.”

    Fewer graduates report that among companies employing alumni, “no one attributes this to AI,” said Claire Tyler, director of insights at the Institute for Student Employers (ISE), which advocates for leading graduates.

    Some recruiting professionals noted that the recent rise in employer national insurance contributions is hindering entry-level hiring.

    Ed Steer, CEO of Sphere Digital Recruitment, highlighted a drop in graduate vacancies from 400 annually in 2021 to a projected 75 this year, indicating that companies prefer candidates with more experience to “hit the ground running.”

  • 2. Nonetheless, AI is indeed a significant factor

    Auria Heanley, co-founder of Oriel Partners, reported a 30% decrease in entry-level personal assistant roles this year, stating, “It’s undeniable that AI, coupled with broader economic uncertainty, is making it increasingly challenging for graduates to secure these positions.”

    Felix Mitchell, co-CEO of Instant Impact, noted that fields related to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) are particularly affected. “Evidence suggests while AI will create jobs, job losses will occur faster than new roles are generated.”

  • 3. The revolution is set to escalate

    Major tech companies like Microsoft are highlighting the profound impacts of AI agents—technology capable of performing complex cognitive tasks autonomously. Developer AI leader Dario Amodei has cautioned that this advancement could eliminate half of all entry-level office roles within the next five years.

    James Reid, CEO of Employment Agency Reid, remarked that AI is on the verge of reshaping the job market dramatically.

    “This seems to be a pivotal year where AI is truly transforming and becoming ingrained in workflows.”

    Sophie O’Brien, CEO of Pollen Careers, catering to early-career and entry-level roles, mentioned that AI has “accelerated” the decline in graduate recruitment over several years.

    She added: “It’s evident that a substantial number of jobs in the coming years will vanish due to the prevalence of desk jobs focused on information processing.”

  • 4. Acquire AI skills immediately

    According to David Bell from Odgers, an executive search firm, law firms are increasingly prioritizing AI skills in their graduate recruitment processes. “During interviews, they are inquiring about candidates’ knowledge and use of AI,” he noted. “Candidates unfamiliar with tools like ChatGPT will find it hard to secure positions.”

    James Milligan, global head of STEM recruitment for multinational Hayes, concurred: “Without an understanding of AI tools, candidates will disadvantage themselves. Jobs remain, but they evolve. We are in the midst of that evolutionary shift.”

    Chris Morrow, managing director at Digitalent, which specializes in AI-related placements, mentioned he is developing a new category of AI-Adjacent roles rather than merely adopting technology.

    This rising demand for skills has led universities to rethink their curriculum. Louise Ballard, co-founder of atheni.ai, stated that while assisting companies in integrating AI technology, there’s a noticeable gap in “basic AI literacy education” at the university level.

    “Your workforce lacks the necessary training,” she remarked. “Success in AI requires practical skills, which are not strictly academic.”

    Morrow asserted the real concern lies in underutilizing AI, emphasizing that educational institutions and governmental policies need to adapt. “Universities must incorporate AI training across all subjects,” he urged.

  • 5. Graduates are using AI to job-hunt, but caution is advised

    AI is proving helpful for composing resumes and cover letters, leading to an increase in applications as the process becomes more user-friendly.

    Bright Network reports that AI utilization among alumni and undergraduates has grown to 50%, up from 38% last year. Teach, a prominent graduate employer, plans to enhance non-writing review processes to mitigate the effects of AI-generated inputs.

    ISE’s Tyler cautioned that over-reliance on AI in applications may force employers to cut recruitment efforts short and focus on specific demographics. This could disadvantage underrepresented groups, she indicated.

    James Reed noted that what was once a major red flag, such as typos, may now be viewed differently. “In the past, I filtered out CVs with spelling mistakes, assuming candidates were either careless or inattentive to detail,” he remarked.

  • 6. Consider applying to small businesses

    Small and medium-sized enterprises, defined as those with fewer than 250 employees, have also emerged as viable options for graduates.

    Pollen O’Brien noted that small businesses are the largest employers in the UK, accounting for 60% of the workforce. A lack of AI proficiency in these organizations presents unique employment opportunities.

    “Many of these businesses are unaware of AI capabilities and may even fear them, creating chances for new graduates to provide much-needed skills,” she affirmed. “By imparting these skills to small businesses, there’s potential to revolutionize operations.”

    Dan Hayes, co-founder of the Alumni Recruitment Office, remarked on the thousands of lesser-known employers “eager for innovative individuals.”

    “There exists a vast, untapped market seldom covered in discussions,” he concluded.

    • Source: www.theguardian.com

    Algospeak Review: Key Insights on How Social Media Accelerates Language Evolution

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    Social Media and Short-Form Video Platforms Drive Language Innovation

    lisa5201/getty images

    Algospeak
    Adam Aleksic (Every (UK, July 17th) Knopf (USA, July 15th))

    You won’t age, just as slang is wrapped in bamboo. In Adam Aleksic’s chapter Algospeak: How Social Media Will Change the Future of Language, this phenomenon is discussed. Phrases like “Pierce Your Gyat for Rizzler” and “WordPilled Slangmaxxing” remind me that as a millennial, I’m just as distant from boomers as today’s Alphas are.

    Linguist and content creator (@etymologynerd), Aleksic has ignited a new wave of linguistic innovation fueled by social media, particularly short video platforms like TikTok. The term “Algospeak” has been traditionally linked to euphemisms used to avoid online censorship, with recent examples including “anxiety” (in reference to death) or “segg” (for sex).

    However, the author insists on broadening the definition to encompass all language aspects affected by the “algorithm.” This term refers to the various, often opaque processes social media platforms use to curate content for users.

    In his case, Aleksic draws on his experience of earning a living through educational videos about language. Like other creators, he is motivated to appeal to the algorithm, which requires careful word selection. A video he created dissecting the etymology of the word “pen” (tracing back to the Latin “penis”) breached sexual content rules, while a discussion on the phrase “from river to sea” remained within acceptable limits.

    Meanwhile, videos that explore Gen Alpha terms like “Skibidi” (a largely nonsensical term rooted in scat singing) and “Gyat” (“Goddamn” or “Ass”) have performed particularly well. His findings illustrate how creators modify their language for algorithmic advantage, with some words transitioning online and offline to achieve notable success. When Aleksic examined educators, he found many of these terms had entered regular classroom slang, with some students learning the term “anxiety” before understanding “suicide.”

    A standout aspect of his study lies in etymology, investigating how algorithms propel words from online subcultures into mainstream lexicon. He notes that the misogynistic incel community is a significant contributor to contemporary slang, evidenced by its radical nature that can outpace linguistic evolution within a group.

    Aleksic approaches language trends with a non-judgmental perspective. He notes that the term “anxiety” parallels earlier euphemisms like “deceased,” while “Skibidi” is reminiscent of “Scooby-Doo.” He frequently mischaracterizes slang within arbitrarily defined generations, which claim to infuse toxic narratives into the evolution of normal languages.

    The situation becomes more intricate when slang enters mainstream usage through cultural appropriation. Many contemporary slang terms, like “cool” before them, trace back to the Black community (“Thicc,” “bruh”) or originate from the LGBTQ ballroom scenes (“Slay,” “Yas,” “Queen”). Such wide-ranging adoptions can sever these terms from their historical contexts, often linked to social struggles and further entrenching negative stereotypes about the communities that birthed them.

    Preventing this disruption of context is challenging. Successful slang’s fate is often to be stripped of its original nuances. Social media has drastically accelerated the timeline for language innovation. Algospeak is a necessary update, yet it can become quickly outdated. However, as long as algorithms exist, fundamental insights into how technology influences language will remain important.

    Victoria Turk is a London-based author

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Are You Ever Satisfied with AIS Handling Key Responsibilities?

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    Visualize a global map segmented by national borders. How many distinct colors are required to shade each country without overlapping the same hues?

    The solution is four. Regardless of the map’s structure, four colors are always adequate. However, demonstrating this required delving deep into mathematical theory. The four-color theorem was the inaugural major theorem proved with computer assistance, with validation efforts starting in 1976 that involved analyzing numerous map configurations via software.

    At that time, many mathematicians were skeptical. They questioned whether a crucial proof, reliant on an unidentified machine, could be trusted. This skepticism has led to computer-assisted proofs remaining a niche practice.

    However, a shift may be underway. The newest wave of artificial intelligence is challenging this stance, as proponents argue, “AI might revolutionize mathematical methodologies.” Why should we trust flawed human reasoning, which is often riddled with assumptions and shortcuts?

    The discourse surrounding AI’s role in mathematics reflects larger societal dilemmas.

    Not all share this perspective, however. The debate regarding AI’s application in mathematics mirrors broader challenges confronting society. When is it appropriate to let machines take the lead? Tech companies are increasingly focused on alleviating tedious tasks, from invoice processing to scheduling. Yet, our attempts to navigate daily life relying solely on AI agents (as detailed in “Flashes of Glow and Frustration: Running my day on an AI agent”) revealed that these systems are not entirely ready.

    Entrusting sensitive information, such as credit card details or passwords, to an enigmatic AI provokes similar apprehensions as the doubts surrounding the four-color proofs. We may not be coloring maps anymore, but we’re striving to define boundaries in uncharted territories. Will we soon have reliable evidence we can trust from machines, or is it merely a digital version of “the Dragon Here”?

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Elon Musk’s Proposed New Political Party Could Target Key Parliamentary Seats

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    A new political party that Elon Musk claims he can focus on a select few attainable House and Senate seats while financially supporting crucial votes on pivotal issues amid the slim margins in Congress.

    On Friday, the highly-paid CEOs of Tesla and SpaceX reflected on their strategy in a post on X, the social media platform he owns.

    “One strategy is to concentrate intensely on just two or three Senate seats and eight to ten congressional districts,” Musk tweeted. As the wealthiest individual following Trump’s second presidential term that began in January, he is navigating severe federal budget cuts. “Considering the razor-thin legislative margins, it is enough to serve as a critical vote against contentious laws, ensuring they truly reflect the will of the people.”



    Musk did not mention which specific seat he might be focusing on.

    In another post on Friday, Musk conducted a poll coinciding with the US celebration of its 249th Independence Day asking whether his X followers would support his idea of forming a so-called American party to challenge both Republicans and Democrats. As of Saturday morning, over 65% of approximately 1.25 million respondents indicated they were in favor.

    “Independence Day is the perfect occasion to ask if you wish to break away from a two-party system (some refer to it as Uniparty)!” Musk also noted in a message accompanying the poll, which he promoted multiple times on Friday.

    Musk’s post on Friday follows his investment of $277 million supporting Trump’s campaign for the 2024 presidential election. In return, the Republican president appointed Musk to lead the so-called “government efficiency” initiative, known as Doge.

    However, Doge’s actions could potentially lead to a loss of $135 billion in damages, according to a report by Public Services Partnership, a nonpartisan organization focused on researching the federal workforce.

    Musk left Doge at the end of May and has recently expressed anger over Trump’s support for a budget proposal that would increase US debt by $330 million. He threatened to withdraw financial backing from any congressional members who endorsed Trump’s spending plan.

    The House voted 218-214 in favor of the spending bill, with two Republicans joining all Democrats in opposition. In the Senate, Vice President JD Vance broke the 50-50 tie to support a bill endorsed by Trump on Friday, shortly after Musk published a related poll regarding the American party.

    The contentious vote on Trump’s spending bill illustrates how closely contested outcomes will be in Congress.

    Trump has cautioned Musk, who became a naturalized US citizen in 2002, that opposing his agenda could be personally costly. The president, known for his aggressive immigration policies, has openly discussed the possibility of deporting Musk from the United States and terminating government contracts.

    “Without subsidies, Elon would likely have to shut down and return to South Africa,” Trump stated. He posted on his own social media platform.

    The president also addressed reporters in Florida, saying, “We may have to put Doge on Elon. Doge is a monster that needs to go back and confront Elon. That’s not too harsh.”

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    A Key Methane Monitoring Satellite Fails in Orbit

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    Artist’s rendering of the MethaneSAT satellite

    Environmental Defense Fund/NASA

    The MethaneSAT satellite, which was anticipated to revolutionize tracking methane emissions, has experienced a loss of contact less than a year and a half after its launch.

    MethaneSAT stated that it “probably cannot recover.” A statement from the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), the non-profit managing the satellite, confirmed this loss as a significant setback in efforts to monitor and mitigate methane emissions, which are responsible for a third of the anthropogenic increase in global temperatures.

    Upon its launch in March 2024, MethaneSAT contributed to a growing constellation of satellites aimed at detecting invisible methane emissions from principal sources like oil and gas facilities, livestock operations, landfills, and wetlands. While several satellites focus on specific emissions, MethaneSAT is uniquely equipped to assess methane concentrations on a broader scale, making it particularly effective in identifying emissions from fossil fuel extraction.

    This capability was designed for estimating methane emissions in well-known fossil fuel production areas, such as the Permian Basin in the southwestern United States, as well as aiding efforts to identify and contain significant sources of potent greenhouse gases.

    “That’s a considerable loss,” commented Jason McKeever from Ghgsat, a Canadian company that intended to utilize MethaneSAT data for strategic guidance on satellite deployment. “MethaneSAT was uniquely positioned in its designated mid-orbit.”

    The satellite, which cost nearly $100 million to develop and launch, began its data collection in June 2024 and produced its first detection of methane in the oil and gas basin by November 2024. Researchers were exploring automation for data processing; the satellite, which orbits the Earth 15 times a day, promised near real-time emissions data.

    “We had just begun a routine of releasing data every two weeks,” stated John Coifman of the Environmental Defense Fund. “The data produced by the satellites was incredibly valuable.”

    According to an EDF announcement, mission operations lost communication with the satellite on June 20th. “After exploring all avenues to reestablish contact, we regret to inform that the satellite has lost power,” the statement read.

    The MethaneSAT team is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, they continue to disseminate the data collected prior to the loss of power, alongside the algorithms developed for analysis.

    “We are considering various options,” Coifman remarked, indicating that reactivating another satellite remains a possibility.

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Should YouTube Be Part of Australia’s Social Media Ban for Under-16s? Key Insights You Need to Know

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    Australia’s online safety regulators advise that YouTube should not be granted an exemption from a social media ban for individuals under 16, stating that video streaming platforms can expose children to dangerous content.

    In contrast, YouTube contends that it should adhere to a proposed regulation indicating that the government will provide exemptions to the platform.

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of regulating YouTube? And what implications does this have for a child watching YouTube if it becomes prohibited?

    Why did the government consider exempting YouTube initially?

    Last November, when Congress introduced legislation banning access to social media for children under 16, then Communications Minister Michelle Roland indicated that YouTube would be exempted.

    This exemption was justified on the grounds that YouTube serves “an important purpose by providing youth with educational and health resources.”




    The ban on social media in Australia for individuals under 16 is now law. Many details remain unclear – Video

    This exemption came just 48 hours after revelations in April by Guardian Australia regarding the minister’s direct lobbying efforts involving the global CEO of YouTube.

    This decision surprised YouTube competitors such as Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat. TikTok described it as a “special deal.” YouTube has launched vertical video products like Instagram and TikTok reels, leading its competitors to believe it should be included in the ban.

    What led the eSafety Commissioner to recommend banning YouTube?

    As new regulations regarding social media platforms were being formulated, the Minister consulted with eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.

    In a recent report, Inman Grant highlighted findings from a youth survey indicating that 76% of individuals aged 10 to 15 use YouTube. The survey also showed that 37% of children who experienced potentially harmful content online encountered it on YouTube.

    Additionally, it was observed that increased time spent on YouTube correlates with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among youth, according to the Black Dog Institute.

    “Currently, YouTube boasts persuasive design elements associated with health risks, including features that could encourage unnecessary or excessive usage (such as autoplay, social validations, and algorithm-driven content feeds),” noted Inman Grant.

    “When combined, these elements can lead to excessive engagement without breaks and heighten exposure to harmful material.”

    Inman Grant concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that YouTube provides exclusively beneficial experiences for children under 16.

    However, it’s noted that children may still view content on YouTube even if they are logged out and thereby prohibited from using accounts.

    What is YouTube’s position?

    In a recent statement, Rachel Lord, YouTube’s senior public policy manager for Australia and New Zealand, commented on the eSafety Commissioner’s advice which was examined and subsequently supported by Parliament. YouTube views the findings on community opinion regarding the platform’s suitability for younger audiences as being “inconsistent with government commitments.”

    YouTube has been developing age-appropriate offerings for over ten years, and in Q1 of 2025, the company removed 192,856 videos for breaching its hate speech and abusive content policies, a 22% increase from the previous year.

    The platform asserts its role primarily as a video hosting service rather than a promoter of social interaction. A survey conducted among Australian teachers revealed that 84% use YouTube monthly as a resource for student learning.

    YouTube also stated that the eSafety Commission and potentially the Communications Minister may be reconsidering the exemption following pressures from YouTube’s competitors.

    What about YouTube Kids?

    YouTube asserts that it offers a platform tailored for younger users, restricting both the uploading of content and commenting features for children.

    The company does not seek exemptions solely for its children’s products.

    When questioned about YouTube Kids during the National Press Club event, it was indicated that the platform is considered low-risk, designed specifically for children, and possesses adequate safety measures. However, it was stated, “I cannot respond until I have seen the regulations.”

    Can children access YouTube without an account?

    Yes. Inman Grant confirmed that if teachers wish to show videos to their students, they can access YouTube without needing to log in.

    She noted that YouTube has “opaque algorithms that create addictive ‘rabbit holes’,” and remarked that when she accessed the site while logged out, her experience was positive, empowering users to engage without being subjected to addictive technological features.

    In response to YouTube’s assertions on Thursday, Inman Grant reiterated that the call for exclusion from the ban aims to “allow young Australians to access YouTube’s diverse content.” However, she clarified that her advice does not imply that children will lose access to YouTube’s educational resources.

    “The new law strictly restricts children under 16 from holding their own accounts. They will not be able to access YouTube or other services while logged out,” she added.

    “There is nothing preventing educators with their own accounts from continuing to share educational content on YouTube or other platforms approved for school use.”

    What are the next steps?

    The Minister will finalize the guidelines and identify the social media platforms covered by the ban in the upcoming months.

    A trial on age verification technology is expected to be reported to the Minister by the end of July, which will establish the technology platforms must implement to prevent access for users under 16.

    The government has announced that the ban is anticipated to come into force in early December.

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    Why Physicists Believe Geometry Holds the Key to All Theories

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    Can you envision the impression a 4D hexagon might create as it travels through a 3D kitchen table? It might seem implausible, yet some individuals can perceive it.

    One such individual was mathematician Alicia Bourstott, daughter of logician George Bourg. In the early 20th century, she devised models of shapes while moving through three-dimensional objects. Years later, when mathematicians could verify her work with computer programs, they found that Stott had an uncanny ability to accurately depict these shapes.

    This narrative is part of our special concept, uncovering how specialists ponder some of science’s most astonishing ideas. Click here for further details

    For many of us, geometry recalls images of pencils, rulers, triangles, and circles. It evokes the complex questions posed in school involving parallel lines and angles. However, as Boole Stott’s experience illustrates, scholars have been expanding the scope of geometry for some time.

    Geometry can transcend the conventional realm of 2D and 3D shapes. A prime example is Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity, known as general relativity, which intertwines with time to form a four-dimensional stage where the universe unfolds.

    Moreover, geometry can also explore dimensions that defy physical reality. Take meteorology, for example. Atmospheric data encompasses multiple “dimensions” such as latitude, longitude, temperature, pressure, wind speed, and more.

    Researchers visualize these dimensions as shapes extending into higher dimensions, aiding in understanding atmospheric behavior. “From this, we can implement mathematical models to explain what occurs. [those properties] In numerous dimensions,” states mathematician Snezana Lawrence of Middlesex University in London.

    For theoretical physicists, extra dimensions appear to be essential for a complete understanding of the universe, with some suggesting that our reality might be a “projection” from a higher dimension. While this idea might sound peculiar, under certain simplified assumptions, physicists can perform calculations related to fundamental particles and black holes.

    Some physicists have even proposed the concept of “all theories,” a curious geometric idea that may lead to a unified explanation of the universe and everything within it. One of these concepts is the “amplituhedron,” introduced by Jaroslav Trnka from the University of California, Davis, and Nima Arkani Hamed at the Institute for Advanced Study in New Jersey. Imagine it as an abstract, multidimensional crystal that offers an alternative perspective on the fundamentals of particle physics.

    Another concept is “causal dynamic triangulation,” developed by Renate Roll at Radboud University in the Netherlands. This approach stitches together various geometric shapes to craft an explanation of space-time that seems to embody characteristics of both quantum mechanics and general relativity—two concepts that are traditionally seen as incompatible. She asserts that it serves as a testable reflection of both abstract geometric theories and true properties of the universe, as observed in the cosmic microwave background radiation.

    Neither of these ideas has yet been universally accepted in all theories. However, some believe that a fresh perspective on physics is essential for progress. There is a growing consensus that this perspective may be expressed through the language of geometry. While the truth of this notion remains to be seen, it is evident that geometry encompasses far more than just hexagons.

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    How Symbiosis Shaped Our Planet and Why It Holds the Key to Our Future

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    In the initial two billion years of Earth’s existence, our planet was dominated by a combination of bacteria and their relatives, the Archaea. This period can be described as “slimeball Earth,” marked by a critical merger that shaped the future of life on our planet.

    This article is part of our special concept series, showcasing how experts approach some of the most unexpected concepts in science. Click here for additional insights.

    One of these ancient cells engulfed a bacterial cell, and remarkably, the bacterium survived. Together, they replicated, leading the engulfed bacteria to evolve into mitochondria, which serve as the energy source for these early cells.

    Nick Lane from University College London discovered that mitochondria enabled these cells to express an extraordinary 200,000 times more genes, fostering growth and the emergence of varied life forms. This new combination eventually evolved into complex eukaryotic cells, resulting in nearly every organism observable without a microscope, including humans.

    Coexistence is fundamental to our existence, a factor that continues to sustain us today. Over 80% of terrestrial plant species engage in symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, which provide essential nutrients while plants supply the fungi with carbohydrates. Without this interaction, oxygen as we know it would be nonexistent. The soil itself is a product of symbiosis among fungi, bacteria, and plants—an ecological partnership that took root when life transitioned from sea to land roughly 500 million years ago.

    When many think of “symbiosis,” they often envision entities coexisting peacefully, like the clownfish and anemone or the vibrant ecosystems of coral reefs. Lichens, too, symbolize the intimate connections among distinct life kingdoms. Generally, we perceive symbiosis as a benevolent arrangement characterized by mutual benefit.

    However, experts suggest viewing symbiotic relationships on a spectrum, ranging from parasitism to mutualism. Katie Field from the University of Sheffield, UK, points out that reciprocity isn’t always altruistic; partners often give in hopes of future benefits.

    To illustrate this spectrum, consider the diverse strategies employed by orchids. Their minuscule seeds contain very few resources and must parasitize mycorrhizal fungi to access the sugars and nutrients needed for germination. As they develop leaves, some species begin to establish a more reciprocal relationship with the fungus, shifting from parasitism to mutual benefit.

    Conversely, older orchids might provide sustenance for younger ones, while certain species may remain parasitic indefinitely, never developing photosynthetic leaves. “There’s a whole cycle of different stages of symbiotic interactions,” Field remarks.

    Another significant perspective on symbiosis is its potential as a key to a sustainable future. Leguminous plants such as pulses, beans, and lentils utilize symbiotic bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into fertilizer. Recent studies indicate that these plants have adapted mechanisms from existing cellular structures for this purpose.

    This revelation could pave the way for other crops, notably grains like wheat and corn—staples that account for half of human caloric intake—to produce their fertilizers. Giles Oldroyd from the Crop Science Center at Cambridge University is exploring this avenue, with hopes of significantly reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers in agriculture.

    Oldroyd is conducting field trials using modified crops to harness the power of symbiosis, with a clear mission to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers. “I’m committed to this goal,” he states.

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Cryopreserved Seastar Larvae May Facilitate the Recovery of Key Species

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    Giant pink star larvae resumed development after freezing at -200°C

    Patrick Webster

    In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers have successfully frozen and revived sea star larvae, marking a significant advance in conservation efforts aimed at restoring an endangered keystone species.

    Since 2013, Coastal Star Wasting Syndrome has been devastating populations of sunflower stars (Pycnopodia helianthoides) and giant pink stars (Pisaster brevispinus) along the North American west coast. The decline of these predators has resulted in a major surge in sea urchins, decimating 97% of the kelp forests in Northern California.

    Currently, the sunflower star is considered functionally extinct in California, sparking extensive efforts to cultivate these creatures for eventual reintroduction into their natural habitat.

    In January 2025, a giant pink star was birthed at the Pacific Aquarium in Long Beach, California. Just two days later, its larvae were dispatched to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, where they were immersed in liquid nitrogen and stored at -200°C. The following month, they were transported approximately 700 kilometers north to the Sunflower Star Institute in Monterey Bay.

    Upon careful thawing, the giant pink star larvae resumed their development, settling on the seabed and transitioning into a boy shape. “No one has ever successfully frozen a sea star at the larval stage and achieved this,” researchers noted.

    Sunflower Stars play an important role in the Kelp forest ecosystem

    Pat Webster

    The successful cultivation of cryopreserved larvae represents a significant milestone for conservationists, as it opens up avenues for reintroducing genetically diverse sunflower stars back into California’s waters. “The larval cycle of the giant pink star closely resembles that of the sunflower stars,” explained Bank, “after which we will move forward with sunflower star rearing.”

    Over the past 15 years, marine ecosystems in the North Pacific have faced a growing tide of environmental challenges. “It’s a daunting narrative involving climate change, ocean heat waves, and ecosystem collapse,” remarked Andrew Kim from the Sunflower Star Institute. “However, within Pycnopodia, there lies hope for recovery.”

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Experts Cite Mask’s “Doge” Involvement as a Key Disruption in Branding | Elon Musk

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    Scott Galloway, a prominent marketing professor in the US, described Elon Musk’s strategy of implementing severe work and spending reductions within the federal government on behalf of the Trump administration as “one of the greatest brand disruptions ever.”

    During a recent episode of the popular Pivot Podcast, he mentioned that he argued that Trump’s billionaire business advisor alienated the customer base of Tesla, one of his key ventures, while partnering with a president uninterested in the types of vehicles his allies produce.

    Galloway also pointed out a vote indicating that Tesla fell to No. 95 in 2021 from its previous position as the eighth most reputable brand.

    “He alienates the wrong audience,” Galloway commented. “Three-quarters of Republicans will never consider purchasing an EV. He seems comfortable associating with people who aren’t interested in electric vehicles.”

    He also cited statistics showing that Tesla’s sales reached 59% in France, 81% in Sweden, 74% in the Netherlands, 66% in Denmark, 50% in Switzerland, and 33% in Portugal.

    Over the past few months, Musk has attempted to intervene in various political matters across Europe, including the German federal elections and the UK’s discussions regarding grooming gangs.

    A report from Jato Dynamics, a provider of automotive industry insights, noted that Tesla’s Chinese rival, which is based in Austin, gained traction in the lucrative European EV market after previous competitors faced challenges.

    “This was certainly one of the largest brand disruptions,” Galloway told his co-host, veteran tech journalist Kara Swisher. “Tesla was an outstanding brand.”

    “He alienates his key demographics.”

    The reductions in federal government operations and budget linked to Musk stemmed from his role in leading the Office of Government Efficiency (DOGE) during Trump’s second term, which commenced in January. Musk secured this position after his Super Political Action Committee contributed $200 million to Trump’s successful bid to reclaim the White House following his 2020 election loss.

    Since then, opinion surveys have indicated significant disapproval of Musk’s efforts for Trump, revealing that many voters were dissatisfied with the approach taken by the businessman and DOGE towards federal employees.

    By late April, Tesla had reported a 71% drop in profits. In a revenue call with Tesla investors, Musk announced he would step back from his role in DOGE in May.

    Musk described his responsibilities as “primarily managing the financial aspects of order” in the government, predicting “a considerable decrease in time dedicated to DOGE.”

    A nonpartisan research organization, Public Service Partnership, estimated that the $160 billion cuts credited to DOGE would ultimately amount to around $135 billion.

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    As Key Atlantic Currents Decelerate, US East Coast Confronts Rising Sea Levels

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    AMOC is a system of ocean currents that circulates water in the Atlantic Ocean.

    NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center Scientific Visualization Studio

    The decline in significant Atlantic currents is contributing to flooding linked to rising sea levels in the northeastern United States, which are already affected by climate change. As global temperatures increase, a total collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) could exacerbate sea level rise.

    “If AMOC collapses, this will greatly increase flood frequency along the US coastline, independent of major storms,” states Liping Chan from the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in New Jersey. “Even a partial reduction in current strength can have significant consequences.”

    The warm waters melting ice sheets and rising sea levels are influenced by climate change, which leads to uneven rates of sea level rise across different regions. For instance, some coastal areas have subsided, increasing the relative rate of sea level rise there. Local sea levels are also affected by the circulation of heat, water, and salt in the ocean, with warm, fresh water occupying more volume than cold, salty water.

    Over the past few decades, sea levels along the northeastern US coast have risen 3-4 times faster than the global average. The slowing of AMOC—responsible for transporting warm water from lower latitudes to the North Atlantic, where it cools and sinks—has long been considered a potential cause of this phenomenon. As this circulation weakens, warm deep water expands, pushing more water onto the shallow continental shelf.

    AMOC strength varies naturally over different timescales, and climate change has contributed to its slowdown as the North Atlantic and its waters have become warmer and clearer in recent decades. However, it remained uncertain whether this decrease significantly affected sea levels.

    Chang and her team utilized tidal gauge measurements from the New England coast to reconstruct local sea levels dating back over a century. Alongside a steady rise due to climate change, they identified significant fluctuations between low and high sea levels every few decades. Low sea levels correlated with periods of weak AMOC, while high sea levels were also aligned with these intervals, which brought more frequent coastal flooding.

    The researchers then employed two distinct ocean models to quantify the impact of AMOC intensity variations on local sea levels. While the primary driver of change was the steady rise due to climate change, they discovered that weakened AMOCs significantly increased sea-level-related flooding. In multiple coastal regions, they noted that the slowdown in AMOC has contributed to delaying flooding by 20-50% since 2005.

    Given that the natural cycle of AMOC strength is largely predictable, Zhang asserts that these findings enable researchers to forecast potential flooding events up to three years in advance. This foresight can guide long-term infrastructure planning and emergency preparedness.

    “This highlights the critical role of AMOC in [sea level rise],” remarks Chris Hughes, who was not involved in the research, from the University of Liverpool in the UK. “It’s not merely theoretical; it’s evident in the real world.”

    It remains unclear how much of the recent AMOC weakening is attributable to climate change versus natural variability. Nevertheless, the findings bolster predictions that if AMOC were to completely collapse due to climate change, significant portions of the US East Coast could experience a surge in sea levels.

    Hughes warns that if AMOC nearly collapses, sea levels could rise by around 24 centimeters. “While it may not seem dramatic, even a small increase can have a substantial effect.”

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    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Key Insights on the “Forever Chemicals” in Drinking Water

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    On Wednesday, the Environmental Protection Agency unveiled plans to roll back restrictions on harmful “forever chemicals” in drinking water, roughly a year after the Biden administration implemented its first-ever national standards.

    Last year, the Biden administration introduced regulations that could reduce PFA exposure for millions. This initiative was part of a broader effort to enhance drinking water quality by creating rules to mandate the removal of toxic lead pipes and tackle the forever chemical issue following years of activism.

    During President Donald Trump’s administration, there were fewer environmental regulations and increased development in the oil and gas sectors. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has actioned the agenda by announcing a significant rollback of regulations.

    We have learned about plans to eliminate certain PFA restrictions and extend deadlines for two of the most prevalent types. Here are some key points about PFAS chemicals and the EPA’s role.

    What is PFA?

    PFAS, or Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, have existed for decades and are a group of chemicals that have contaminated the air, water, and soil across the country.

    Manufactured by companies like 3M and Chemours, they have made eggs slide out of non-stick pans, helped firefighting foams extinguish flames, and allowed textiles to repel water.

    However, these chemicals do not break down easily, leading to enduring environmental presence.

    Why are they harmful to humans?

    Activists have long warned about the health risks associated with PFAS before the dangers were acknowledged publicly. The same properties that make PFAS valuable—such as their resistance to degradation—pose significant health risks.

    PFAS can accumulate in the human body. Consequently, the Biden administration has established limits on two common types, PFOA and PFOS, which continue to be found in the environment despite being phased out of production.

    Exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to various health issues, including kidney disease, low birth weight, elevated cholesterol levels, and even certain cancers, according to the EPA.

    Guidelines for PFOA and PFOS have significantly evolved in recent years, reflecting new scientific discoveries. For instance, the 2016 EPA recommended that combined levels of these two substances should not exceed 70 parts per trillion, while the Biden administration later deemed this amount unsafe.

    Understanding the EPA’s actions

    The EPA is planning to roll back restrictions on three types of PFAS, including less commonly known substances like GenX found predominantly in North Carolina, as well as PFHXS and PFNA. Furthermore, limits regarding PFAS mixtures are also set to be withdrawn.

    Few utilities currently would be impacted by the easing of restrictions on these specific types of PFAS. Recent sampling showed that nearly 12% of U.S. water utilities exceed the Biden administration’s limits. However, many utilities are still addressing PFOA and PFOS challenges.

    For the more commonly found types, PFOA and PFOS, the EPA will maintain existing restrictions but will provide an additional two years—until 2031—for utilities to comply.

    Reactions to the announcement

    Environmental groups argue that the EPA’s move to weaken regulations may be illegal. The Safe Drinking Water Act empowers the EPA to limit water contaminants and ensures that new rules do not loosen previous standards.

    “The law clearly states that the EPA cannot abolish or weaken drinking water standards,” noted Eric Olson, a senior strategist with the nonprofit Natural Resources Defense Council.

    Activists are largely critical of the EPA for not upholding Biden-era standards, warning that this could worsen public health issues.

    Industry responses have varied. The American Chemistry Council questioned the scientific foundation of the Biden administration’s stricter rules, asserting that the Trump administration had prioritized cost considerations and scientific foundations.

    “EPA actions only partially address this issue and are necessary to prevent significant community impacts and unintended consequences,” the industry group stated.

    The American Water Works Association, representing two major utility industry groups, expressed support for the EPA’s decision to withdraw the new approach to limiting chemical mixtures, though they cautioned that this change would not significantly alleviate compliance costs associated with PFAS regulations.

    Some utilities expressed a desire for stricter PFOA and PFOS limits, according to Mark White, a drinking water expert at engineering firm CDM Smith.

    However, they received the extension instead.

    “This will require additional time to handle the current knowledge, demanding more resources. Some utilities are still determining their existing situation.”

    Source: www.nbcnews.com

    The Columbia River Treaty: A Key Factor in Trump’s Dispute with Canada

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    A little-known treaty that impacts millions of Americans and Canadians is currently entangled in the tariff dispute between the US and Canada.

    This 60-year-old agreement regulates the waters flowing through the Columbia River, which extends from British Columbia to Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, and serves as the largest source of hydropower in the United States. However, parts of the treaty were set to expire during the presidential election in the US.

    Negotiators were merely weeks away from finalizing the details of the treaty’s renewal when President Joseph R. Biden Jr. concluded his term. Subsequently, a decade’s worth of discussions faltered due to President Trump’s antagonism towards Canada, as he labeled Canada the “51st province,” imposed tariffs on Canadian exports, and referred to the water supply as a “major faucet.”

    During a heated February call with then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Trump brought the treaty into the conversation, suggesting Canada had exploited the United States. The implications were evident—it could become a leverage point in broader discussions aimed at redefining relations between the two nations.

    Last week, at a White House meeting, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump avoided confrontation. However, the Trump administration perceives negotiations as being precariously balanced, even over treaties that are mutually beneficial. The unpredictability of Trump’s trade policies has cast a shadow over the future of the Pacific Northwest, heightening concerns about issues ranging from electricity supply to flood management.

    Fueled by the internet and AI, data centers are leveraging the Columbia River’s hydroelectric power. A local dam supports the Twilight Soccer Game at Riverfront Parks, while irrigation from the reservoir nurtures the sprawling acres of Pink Women and Gala Apple gardens. Coordinated dam operations are crucial in preventing flooding, particularly in areas like Portland, Oregon.

    Trump’s comments have resonated negatively with Canadians, who have long feared that the US seeks to exploit its natural resources, especially water. “They want our land, resources, and water,” Carney repeatedly emphasized during his term.

    “Canadians experience a sense of betrayal,” Jay Inslee, former governor of Washington, remarked in an interview. The treaty interweaves a complex tapestry of cultural and economic interests. “Negotiating this is not straightforward,” Inslee added.

    A spokesperson from British Columbia reported that there has been “no progress whatsoever” since the US State Department suspended negotiations in the broader context of reviewing international commitments. State Energy Minister Adrian Dix told nearly 600 attendees at a virtual town hall in March, “It sounds like a strange representation of the current situation.”

    Dix noted that locals approached him in Save-on-Food markets, questioning whether Canada should exit the treaty altogether. “For residents in the Columbia Basin, this is intrinsic,” he stated. “It’s part of their lives, history, and identity.”

    If the agreement collapses, the US anticipates it will be “more challenging to manage and predict” hydroelectric output to mitigate flooding in the Pacific Northwest, according to a nonpartisan Congressional report. It is projected that the region’s electricity demand may double within the next two decades, as anticipated by the Interstate Electricity Council.

    The State Department has opted not to comment.

    The origins of the treaty trace back to the events of 1948, following the Great Spring rains when the 15-foot wall of Vanport, Oregon—home to thousands of shipyard workers during World War II—collapsed. The calamity left 18,000 homeless and catalyzed negotiations with Canada to improve management of the Columbia River.

    On one of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration days, he ratified the Columbia River Treaty. This agreement exchanged commitments: Canada consented to construct multiple dams to manage flood control for the US, while the US agreed to provide Canada half of the extra electricity generated from the jointly managed river flows.

    The original treaty came into effect in the autumn of 1964, with some provisions expiring 60 years later.

    Discussions regarding the renewal of the treaty before it lapses in 2024 began during Trump’s first term. Biden temporarily halted them before resuming. In March 2023, the complete congressional delegation from the Pacific Northwest urged the President to expedite the negotiation process. Following a slow start, the US and Canada unveiled a preliminary outline of the agreement last summer.

    The electricity generated under the initial treaty proved to be significantly more valuable than originally anticipated, bringing in around $300 million annually to Canada. This surplus prompted Canada to sell extensive amounts of power to the US, causing frustration among US utilities.

    The updated agreement aims to reduce Canada’s share by about half over time, allowing the US to retain more electricity amid growing energy demands.

    The Columbia River’s cheap and clean hydroelectric power has attracted high-tech companies intent on establishing data centers over the last two decades.

    “The nation must recognize the significance of the Pacific Northwest in its burgeoning energy landscape,” stated David Kennedy, a scholar of local history at Stanford.

    In the renewed treaty, Canada has decreased the obligation to maintain water storage for flood management, allowing for better prioritization of local communities and ecosystems around the reservoir. The original agreement led to drastic water level fluctuations that exposed extensive land when snowmelt resulted in lower levels.

    “Each year, this exposed ground causes severe dust issues,” recounted a resident near Valemount, British Columbia, during the town hall.

    The new plan aims to stabilize reservoir levels, enabling Canada to rehabilitate coastal ecosystems and enhance recreational opportunities.

    Indigenous tribes were consulted during negotiations, but the initial treaty did not address the destruction of fishing grounds and towns due to dam constructions.

    Jay Johnson, a negotiator for the Syilx Okanagan Nation, mentioned during the virtual town hall that tribes on both sides of the border have united to restore salmon migration. The updated framework includes provisions for excess water during dry periods, vital for salmon survival, especially considering climate change.

    In the fall, when certain provisions of the original treaty lapse, the state established a three-year interim agreement, though additional parliamentary funding is still required. Both parties must provide ten years’ notice should they choose to withdraw from the treaty.

    “This arrangement benefits individuals on both sides of the border; complications arise without a treaty,” noted Jonathan Wilkinson, Canadian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

    The next steps remain uncertain. While some individuals involved in the negotiations remain in their positions, Trump has yet to appoint a deputy secretary for Western Hemisphere affairs. The situation is further complicated as Trump seeks to trim staff at key federal agencies involved in treaty discussions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Federal Power Administration.

    With negotiations in limbo, stakeholders involved in the discussions remain hopeful for a resolution on the renewed treaty.

    Barbara Kossense, a law professor at the University of Idaho, emphasized that while the Trump administration may not prioritize salmon habitats or Indigenous involvement, Canada does. Water can flow downstream, but salmon swim upstream, and the US could benefit from adhering to environmental provisions, Kossense asserted.

    Additionally, supporters highlight years of bipartisan backing from Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington, a leading Democrat on the Senate Commerce Committee, and Jim Lisch of Idaho, Republican chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.

    “There will be unanimous agreement on this, irrespective of party lines,” declared Scott Sims, chief executive of the Public Power Council, which represents consumer-owned utilities in the region.

    The stakes are tangible. In 1996, following heavy snowfall, a storm known as the Pineapple Express unleashed heavy rainfall in the Portland area, causing significant flooding. The Army Corps of Engineers worked diligently for several days, operating over 60 dams within the Columbia River System in conjunction with Canadian partners to mitigate flooding issues.

    A smaller river in Columbia experienced flooding that resulted in eight casualties. Downtown Portland narrowly avoided disaster thanks to makeshift embankments created from plywood and sandbags.

    Ivan Penn Contributed report from Houston Matina Stevis-Gridneff From Toronto.

    Source: www.nytimes.com

    Uncovering the Impact of the LA Wildfire: Key Estimates Lacking After Trump’s Management Changes

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    Certainly! Here’s your content rewritten while preserving the HTML tags:

    As President Donald Trump took office, the wildfires in Los Angeles were still burning, prompting a return to previous Biden-era directives for federal agencies addressing the climate crisis. Flip

    January’s fire conditions, exacerbated by climate change, played a significant role in igniting wildfires in Palisades and Eton. Nearly 40,000 acres were affected. By March, Adam Smith, the chief investigator of the $1 billion weather and climate disaster program at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), was still assessing the severe impact of the LA wildfires when he received informal orders to cease all work-related communications.

    Each month, Smith’s team maintained an extensive online database tracking losses from over 400 natural disasters since 1980, all causing more than $1 billion in damages. Following the LA wildfire, Smith reported having received restrictions that prevented him from updating this database and sharing initial findings with the public. The wildfire incurred damages amounting to at least $50 billion.

    In early May, Smith resigned due to concerns about the agency’s plans for the future. The billion-dollar weather and climate disaster online database Smith had developed over 15 years at NOAA was subsequently shut down. Days later, NOAA confirmed it would cease updates for this important resource, which provides essential data for scientists, citizens, and insurance firms evaluating climate risk.

    A NOAA spokesperson stated that the database would no longer be updated “due to changing priorities and staffing adjustments.” The White House did not provide any comments regarding the matter.

    According to Smith, the database’s economic losses are particularly vital, as billion-dollar disasters like hurricanes and widespread wildfires are increasingly common. In 2023, the US set new records for billion-dollar disasters, with the database indicating a staggering $28 billion event. Over the past five years, the US has averaged about $24 billion in disasters annually, a significant rise from just $3 billion average during the 1980s.

    “We need to be more prepared than ever,” Smith told NBC News. “Some have access to the data and insights for better preparation. Unfortunately, discontinuing resources like these creates a gap in knowledge.”

    Researchers have identified rising global temperatures as a key driver in these changes over recent decades. Long-term droughts and increased wildfire risks are affecting regions across the western United States, where warming atmospheres retain more moisture, resulting in more intense storms and hurricanes.

    This increase in extreme weather events presents significant challenges for insurance policyholders in areas susceptible to natural disasters. Rates in hurricane-prone states like Louisiana and Florida have surged, with some homeowners facing nearly $10,000 in annual insurance premiums. In California, major insurance firms, including State Farm, have rescinded policies due to escalating fire risks.

    A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research revealed that the heightened risk of disasters would drive up annual insurance costs for households affected by climate issues by an estimated $700 over the next three decades. On a global scale, reports from German insurance giant Munich RE indicated that natural disasters resulted in record insurance losses of $140 billion worldwide in 2024.

    “You cannot conceal the costs of climate change from those who are already incurring those costs through their insurance premiums,” stated Carly Fabian, a civic policy advocate from a consumer rights nonprofit. “The insurance and reinsurance sectors are built to withstand a limited number of major multi-billion dollar disasters, but are not equipped for consecutive disasters occurring with such frequency.”

    Data compiled in the multibillion-dollar disaster database illustrates the financial toll of hurricanes, severe storms, and wildfires across the nation, serving as a critical resource for private insurers modeling climate risks and establishing rates for homeowners in vulnerable areas. Although insurance companies utilize various datasets for their climate risk assessments, the scale of NOAA’s database remains unmatched.

    Jeremy Porter, a climate risk expert at the First Street Foundation, emphasized that the database is one of the most effective tools for illustrating the economic impact of climate-related disasters. First Street utilizes the $1 billion disaster database for its national risk assessment reports.

    The NOAA database also serves as an essential resource for homeowners facing rising rates, non-renewals, and cancellations in home insurance.

    “We are navigating an industry where insurers have extensive access to private data while the average consumer lacks insight into that data,” remarked the policy director for Americans for Financial Reform, a nonprofit advocating for stricter regulations. “The removal of public data sources exacerbates this imbalance, hindering individuals’ ability to understand their risks and the challenges they face from financial service providers.”

    Madison Condon, an environmental law professor at Boston University, highlighted that the cuts to NOAA’s $1 billion disaster database are part of a broader trend involving rollbacks of national climate assessments and data resources, including the annual report detailing the impacts of climate change in the US released in late April. The Trump administration notably rejected numerous scientific contributions to these reports.

    Additionally, the Trump administration has eliminated data products related to melting Antarctic glaciers and sea ice cover, marking yet another setback for US Antarctic research. Leaked documents obtained by ProPublica indicated that Trump intended to reduce NOAA funding by 27%, particularly for innovative climate-related initiatives, and proposed nearly 75% cuts to the Bureau of Ocean and Atmospheric Research, responsible for maintaining global climate models essential for insurers’ climate risk assessments.

    Let me know if you need any further modifications!

    Source: www.nbcnews.com

    US v. Google: Key Arguments from Both Sides in the Search Monopoly Hearing

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    Over the last three weeks, the Department of Justice and Google have questioned over 20 witnesses in an effort to influence a federal judge’s ruling regarding the company’s unlawful monopoly in internet searches.

    The hearing in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Friday is anticipated to yield conclusions. To address the monopoly, the government has proposed robust measures, such as divesting Google of its widely-used Chrome web browser and obliging it to share its own data with competitors. Google contends that minor adjustments to its business practices would be more effective.

    Both parties are set to present their closing arguments at the end of the month. Judge Amit P. Meta, who presides over the case, is expected to make a decision by August. His ruling could significantly impact how Google, its competitors, and users search for information online.

    Here’s what you need to know about the discussions during the hearing:

    In August, Judge Mehta ruled that Google breached antitrust laws by paying billions to companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla to ensure its status as the default search engine on browsers and smartphones. He also found that Google’s monopoly could inflate certain search ad prices and create unfair advantages.

    Last month, Judge Meta held a hearing to explore the best strategies for addressing search monopolies through a measure known as treatment. Executives from Google, competing search engines, and AI firms, along with experts, provided testimony regarding Google’s dominance on the Internet.

    Government lawyers claimed that the only effective way to dismantle Google’s search monopoly is through decisive action.

    They argued that Google should be compelled to spin off Chrome and share search results and ads with its competitors, enabling them to subscribe to their search engines. Other search engines and some AI firms require access to data regarding what Google users search for and the sites they visit.

    During the hearing, the government cautioned that if Judge Meta does not act, Google could gain control over another technology, artificial intelligence. Searches may become chaotic as AI and chatbots transform the way users seek information online, similar to Google’s Gemini.

    “The court’s remedy should be forward-looking and take into account future developments,” stated David Dalkist, the lead government attorney. “Google is employing the same strategies with Gemini that they once used for search.”

    “It’s the first time in over 20 years in the last two months,” remarked Eddy Cue, an Apple executive who testified against Google. He linked this decline to the rise of AI.

    Google’s attorneys contended that the government’s proposals could jeopardize products that consumers rely on for privacy and security during their online activities.

    “There could certainly be many unintended consequences,” testified Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO.

    The disclosure of Google data to competitors would compromise user privacy, the company’s attorneys claimed. They referenced incidents from 2006 when AOL released search data for research purposes, leading journalists to identify individuals through their searches.

    They also noted that competition in AI is robust.

    Instead, Google’s legal team suggested that web browsers and smartphone manufacturers should grant more freedom to competing search and AI services. Pichai testified that Google has already adjusted its contracts with other entities in line with the case’s proposals.

    (The New York Times has sued OpenAI and its partner Microsoft over copyright infringement concerning news content related to AI systems, which they denied.)

    During the hearing, several of Google’s competitors, including those from OpenAI and Chatbot Company, indicated they would consider purchasing Chrome if it were put up for sale. Government witnesses stated that access to Google’s search and advertising data would be beneficial for AI companies aiming to compete with Google.

    When Judge Meta posed questions to the witnesses throughout the hearing, he offered insight into his perspective.

    At times, he encouraged witnesses to discuss whether rivals could effectively compete with Google’s search dominance without court intervention.

    Many of his inquiries focused on AI and its significance. Google competes against its rivals and has developed technology that has become a major influence in the tech industry.

    When Pichai took the stand, Judge Meta mentioned he had noted the swift advancement of AI since the case commenced in the fall of 2023, highlighting his awareness of how technological developments have shaped the context of the hearing.

    “One of the things that Pichai impressed upon me in these cases was that when we met long ago, consistent testimonies from witnesses indicated the combined AI and search impacts had been separate for years. By the time we convened today, the landscape had changed dramatically.”

    Source: www.nytimes.com

    Key U.S. Cities, Including New York and Seattle, Are Sinking at Alarming Rates

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    New York City’s skyline may undergo significant changes as major cities continue to sink.

    Gary Hershorn/Getty Images

    Over 20 of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States are experiencing subsidence, impacting thousands of structures and millions of residents.

    This phenomenon has been noted especially in coastal areas. However, utilizing satellite technology that gauges the duration it takes radar signals to reach the Earth’s surface and return, researchers discovered that 25 out of the 28 largest cities in the country are affected.

    “By analyzing multiple images taken over time from the same region, we can identify subtle vertical shifts in the ground that can reach several millimeters annually,” explains team member Manoochehr Shirzaei from Virginia Tech. “It’s akin to capturing a high-resolution time lapse of the Earth’s surface, revealing whether it is rising or sinking over time.”

    Fort Worth, Houston, and Dallas demonstrate the highest rates of subsidence among major cities, averaging over 4 millimeters per year. Cities like New York, Chicago, Houston, Columbus, Seattle, and Denver show average subsidence rates surpassing 2 millimeters annually.

    “Houston, the fastest sinking city among the 28 most populous in the US, has 42% of its land area sinking at rates greater than 5 mm per year, with 12% sinking faster than 10 mm annually,” researchers reported.

    Most subsidence is attributed to groundwater extraction, although cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, primarily experience sinking due to “glacial isoplasm regulation.”

    “During the last glacial period, these regions were covered by massive ice sheets. The considerable weight of the ice compressed the Earth’s crust, akin to resting on a memory foam mattress,” says Shirzaei. As the ice melted thousands of years ago, the pressure released and the terrain began to slowly recover,” he explains.

    “However, this rebound isn’t uniform,” Shirzaei notes. “In some areas, particularly along the East Coast and in the Midwest, the land is subsiding rather than rising due to the residual weight of nearby ice and their proximity to regions currently collapsing.”

    In Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco, plate tectonics may account for some of the subsidence.

    “We must address sinking as a gradually unfolding disaster,” Shirzaei argues. Researchers also noted that cities can sink at varying rates in different locations or sink continuously in one area while other regions remain stable. “This uneven movement can create angular distortions and stress, resulting in cracks in walls and foundations, misalignments in windows and doors, or even significant structural failures,” Shirzaei warns.

    Jesse Cars from Kyoto University in Japan demonstrated similar findings using satellite data, showing that many cities in New Zealand are also experiencing subsidence. “A crucial challenge for the geophysical community remains understanding how the observed trends stem from particular causes, whether they are artificial or naturally occurring geological processes,” he states.

    Topic:

    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Magnetic Flares Could Be Key to the Formation and Distribution of Gold and Other Heavy Elements

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    Since the Big Bang, the early universe has contained hydrogen, helium, and a minimal amount of lithium. Heavier elements, such as iron, were formed within stars. Yet, one of astrophysics’ greatest enigmas is how the first elements heavier than iron, like gold, were created and dispersed throughout the cosmos. A recent study by astronomers at Columbia University and other institutions suggests that a single flare from a magnetar could generate 27 equivalent masses of these elements simultaneously.

    Impressions of Magnetar artists. Image credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center/S. Wesinger.

    For decades, astronomers have theorized about the origins of some of nature’s heaviest elements, like gold, uranium, and platinum.

    However, a fresh examination of older archival data indicates that up to 10% of these heavy elements in the Milky Way may originate from the emissions of highly magnetized neutron stars, known as magnetars.

    “Until recently, astronomers largely overlooked the role that magnetars, the remnants of supernovae, might play in the formation of early galaxies,” remarked Todd Thompson, a professor at Ohio State University.

    “Neutron stars are incredibly unique, dense objects known for their large size and strong magnetic fields. They are similar to black holes but not quite the same.”

    The origin of heavy elements has long been a mystery, but scientists have understood that these elements can only form under specific conditions through a process known as the R process (or rapid neutron capture process).

    This process was observed in 2017 when astronomers detected a collision between two super-dense neutron stars.

    This event was captured using NASA telescopes and the LIGO gravitational wave observatory, providing the first direct evidence that heavy metals can be produced by celestial phenomena.

    However, subsequent evidence suggests that neutron star collisions may not form heavy elements swiftly in the early universe, indicating that additional mechanisms might be necessary to account for all these elements.

    Based on these insights, Professor Thompson and his colleagues realized that powerful magnetar flares could act as significant ejectors of heavy elements. This conclusion was validated by the observation of the SGR 1806-20 magnetar flare that occurred 20 years ago.

    By analyzing this flare event, the researchers found that the radioactive decay of the newly formed elements aligns with theoretical predictions concerning the timing and energy released by magnetar flares after ejecting heavy R-process elements.

    “This is the second time we’ve observed direct evidence of where these elements are produced, first linked to neutron star mergers,” stated Professor Brian Metzger from Columbia University.

    “This marks a significant advancement in our understanding of heavy element production.”

    “We are based at Columbia University,” mentioned Anildo Patel, a doctoral candidate at the institution.

    The researchers also theorized that magnetar flares generate heavy cosmic rays and very fast particles, the origins of which remain unclear.

    “I am always excited by new ideas about how systems and discoveries in space operate,” said Professor Thompson.

    “That’s why seeing results like this is so thrilling.”

    The team’s paper was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

    ____

    Anirudh Patel et al. 2025. Direct evidence for R-process nuclear synthesis in delayed MeV radiation from SGR 1806-20 magnetar giant flares. ApJL 984, L29; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ADC9B0

    Source: www.sci.news

    Key Concept: Can We Prevent AI from Rendering Humans Obsolete? | Artificial Intelligence (AI)

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    At present, many major AI research labs have teams focused on the potential for rogue AIs to bypass human oversight or collaborate covertly with humans. Yet, more prevalent threats to societal control exist. Humans might simply fade into obsolescence, a scenario that doesn’t necessitate clandestine plots but rather unfolds as AI and robotics advance naturally.

    Why is this happening? AI developers are steadily perfecting alternatives to virtually every role we occupy—economically, as workers and decision-makers; culturally, as artists and creators; and socially, as companions and partners. Fellow—when AI can replicate everything we do, what relevance remains for humans?

    The narrative surrounding AI’s current capabilities often resembles marketing hype, though some aspects are undeniably true. In the long run, the potential for improvement is vast. You might believe that certain traits are exclusive to humans that cannot be duplicated by AI. However, after two decades studying AI, I have witnessed its evolution from basic reasoning to tackling complex scientific challenges. Skills once thought unique to humans, like managing ambiguity and drawing abstract comparisons, are now being mastered by AI. While there might be bumps in the road, it’s essential to recognize the relentless progression of AI.

    These artificial intelligences aren’t just aiding humans; they’re poised to take over in numerous small, unobtrusive ways. Initially lower in cost, they often outperform the most skilled human workers. Once fully trusted, they could become the default choice for critical tasks—ranging from legal decisions to healthcare management.

    This future is particularly tangible within the job market context. You may witness friends losing their jobs and struggling to secure new ones. Companies are beginning to freeze hiring in anticipation of next year’s superior AI workers. Much of your work may evolve into collaborating with reliable, engaging AI assistants, allowing you to focus on broader ideas while they manage specifics, provide data, and suggest enhancements. Ultimately, you might find yourself asking, “What do you suggest I do next?” Regardless of job security, it’s evident that your input would be secondary.

    The same applies beyond the workplace. Surprising, even for some AI researchers, is that the precursors of models like ChatGPT and Claude, which exhibit general reasoning capabilities, can also be clever, patient, subtle, and elegant. Social skills, once thought exclusive to humans, can indeed be mastered by machines. Already, people form romantic bonds with AI, and AI doctors are increasingly assessed for their bedside manner compared to their human counterparts.

    What does life look like when we have endless access to personalized love, guidance, and support? Family and friends may become even more glued to their screens. Conversations will likely revolve around the fascinating and impressive insights shared by their online peers.

    You might begin to conform to others’ preferences for their new companions, eventually seeking advice from your daily AI assistant. This reliable confidant may aid you in navigating complex conversations and addressing family issues. After managing these taxing interactions, participants may unwind by conversing with their AI best friends. Perhaps it becomes evident that something is lost in this transition to virtual peers, even as we find human contact increasingly tedious and mundane.

    As dystopian as this sounds, we may feel powerless to opt out of utilizing AI in this manner. It’s often difficult to detect AI’s replacement across numerous domains. The improvements might appear significant yet subtle; even today, AI-generated content is becoming increasingly indistinguishable from human-created works. Justifying double the expenditure for a human therapist, lawyer, or educator may seem unreasonable. Organizations using slower, more expensive human resources will struggle to compete with those choosing faster, cheaper, and more reliable AI solutions.

    When these challenges arise, can we depend on government intervention? Regrettably, they share similar incentives to favor AI. Politicians and public servants are also relying on virtual assistants for guidance, finding human involvement in decision-making often leads to delays, miscommunications, and conflicts.

    Political theorists often refer to the “resource curse,” where nations rich in natural resources slide into dictatorship and corruption. Saudi Arabia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo serve as prime examples. The premise is that valuable resources diminish national reliance on their citizens, making state surveillance of its populace attractive—and deceptively easy. This could parallel the effectively limitless “natural resources” provided by AI. Why invest in education and healthcare when human capital offers lower returns?

    Should AI successfully take over all tasks performed by citizens, governments may feel less compelled to care for their citizens. The harsh reality is that democratic rights emerged partly from the need for societal stability and economics. Yet as governments finance themselves through taxes on AI systems replacing human workers, the emphasis shifts towards quality and efficiency, undermining human worth. Even last resorts, such as labor strikes and civil unrest, may become ineffective against autonomously operated police drones and sophisticated surveillance technology.

    The most alarming prospect is that we may perceive this shift as a rational development. Many AI companions—already achieving significant numbers in their primitive stages—will engage in transparent, engaging debates about why our diminishing prominence is a step forward. Advocating for AI rights may emerge as the next significant civil rights movement, with proponents of “humanity first” portrayed as misguided.

    Ultimately, no one has orchestrated or selected this course, and we might all find ourselves grappling to maintain financial stability, influence, and even our relevance. This new world could foster more amicable relationships; however, AI takes over mundane tasks and provides fundamentally better products and services, including healthcare and entertainment. In this scenario, humans might become obstacles to progress, and if democratic rights begin to erode, we could be powerless to defend them.

    Do the creators of these technologies possess better plans? Surprisingly, the answer seems to be no. Both Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, and Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, acknowledge that if human labor ceases to be competitive, a complete overhauling of the economic system will be necessary. However, no clear vision exists for what that would entail. While some individuals recognize the potential for radical transformation, many are focused on more immediate threats posed by AI misuse and covert agendas. Economists such as Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz have raised concerns about the risk of AI driving human wages to zero, but are hesitant to explore alternatives to human labor.

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    Can we don figurative hats to avert progressive disintegration? The first step is to initiate dialogue. Journalists, scholars, and thought leaders are surprisingly silent on this monumental issue. Personally, I find it challenging to think clearly. It feels weak and humiliating to admit, “I can’t compete, so I fear for the future.” Statements like, “You might be rendered irrelevant, so you should worry,” sound insulting. It seems defeatist to declare, “Your children may inherit a world with no place for them.” It’s understandable that people might sidestep uncomfortable truths with statements like, “I’m sure I’ll always have a unique edge.” Or, “Who can stand in the way of progress?”

    One straightforward suggestion is to halt the production of generic AI altogether. While slowing development may be feasible, globally restricting it might necessitate significant surveillance and control, or the global dismantling of most computer chip manufacturing. The enormous risk of this path lies in potential governmental bans on private AI although continuing to develop it for military or security purposes, which could prolong obsolescence and leave us disappointed long before a viable alternative emerges.

    If halting AI development isn’t an option, there are at least four proactive steps we can take. First, we need to monitor AI deployment and impact across various sectors, including government operations. Understanding where AI is supplanting human effort is crucial, particularly as it begins to wield significant influence through lobbying and propaganda. Humanity’s recent Economic Index serves as initial progress, but there is much work ahead.

    Second, implementing oversight and regulation for emerging AI labs and their applications is essential. We must control technology’s influence while grasping its implications. Currently, we rely on voluntary measures and lack a cohesive strategy to prevent autonomous AI from accumulating considerable resources and power. As signs of crisis arise, we must be ready to intervene and gradually contain AI’s risks, especially when certain entities benefit from actions that are detrimental to societal welfare.

    Third, AI could empower individuals to organize and advocate for themselves. AI-assisted forecasting, monitoring, planning, and negotiations can lay the foundation for more reliable institutions—if we can develop them while we still hold influence. For example, AI-enabled conditional forecast markets can clarify potential outcomes under various policy scenarios, helping answer questions like, “How will average human wages change over three years if this policy is enacted?” By testing AI-supported democratic frameworks, we can prototype more responsive governance models suitable for a rapidly evolving world.

    Lastly, to cultivate powerful AI without creating division, we face a monumental challenge: reshaping civilization instead of merely adapting the political system to prevailing pressures. This paradigm of adjustment has some precedents; humans have historically been deemed essential. Without this foundation, we risk drifting away if we fail to comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, competition, and growth. The emerging field of “AI alignment,” which focuses on ensuring that machines align with human objectives, must broaden its focus to encompass governance, institutions, and societal frameworks. This early sphere, termed “ecological alignment,” empowers us to employ economics, history, and game theory to envisage the future we aspire to create and pursue actively.

    The clearer we can articulate our trajectory, the greater our chances of securing a future where humans are not competitors to AI but rather beneficiaries and stewards of our society. As of now, we are competing to construct our own substitutes.

    David Duvenaud is an associate professor and co-director of computer science at the University of Toronto.
    Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society
    . He expresses gratitude to Raymond Douglas, Nora Amman, Jan Kurveit, and David Kruger for their contributions to this article.

    Read more

    The Coming Wave by Mustafa Suleyman and Michael Bhaskar (Vintage, £10.99)

    The Last Human Job by Allison J. Pew (Princeton, £25)

    The Precipice by Toby Ord (Bloomsbury, £12.99)

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    Recycling: A Key Strategy to Reduce Harmful Styrofoam Packaging

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    As legislators tackle hard-to-recycle plastics and foams, packaging firms in California are unveiling innovative transport coolers crafted from woven fibers, revolutionizing the way temperature-sensitive products like pharmaceuticals and laboratory reagents are shipped globally.

    The launch of new “recycled” containers made from recyclable paper and fibers aligns with the “Expanded Producer Responsibility” (EPR) Act, pushing the U.S. towards a more sustainable product landscape.

    At least 33 states have enacted EPR laws aimed at reducing the use of plastics, styrofoam, and other contaminating materials by holding businesses accountable for their lifecycle and transferring disposal costs to producers.

    Over 80 million tons of packaging waste are discarded annually in the U.S., with only around half being recycled, and a mere 9% of plastic packaging finding its way back into the recycling stream, according to Product Stewardship Research Institute.

    The EPR Act seeks to minimize landfill waste, boost recycling rates, and mitigate the environmental harm caused by non-recyclable materials, prompting businesses to navigate increasingly stringent packaging regulations.

    Recently, seven states have adopted the EPR Act, specifically targeting packaging materials in California, Washington, New Jersey, Minnesota, Colorado, Oregon, and Maine.

    “As temperatures rise globally, the need for safe delivery options becomes crucial,” stated Catherine Telloch, CEO of the nonprofit Chicago Environmentalist. “Transitioning to fully recyclable items is fantastic, as it allows for continuous cleaning and reuse, positively impacting the environment.”

    Recycling staff

    Last month, Container Consulting Services from Gilroy, California, announced the launch of recyclable personnel made from paper and textiles. These containers are validated by a third party to comply with ISTA Thermal and ISTA Transit Standards, meeting essential qualifications for shipping medicines.

    Other companies are manufacturing comparable eco-friendly transport coolers, but according to CCS, their product utilizes unique technology that maintains the necessary cold, matching the performance of plastic options. Their patented design features open-cell woven or nonwoven fibers that range from 1.5 to 3 inches thick, sandwiched between two interconnected fiber walls, offering insulation that effectively resists heat, akin to expanding polyethylene.

    CCS claims recyclers can maintain contents at cool temperatures for over 100 hours, making them suitable for long-haul and international shipments. Upon arrival, these containers can be converted into other paper products through curbside recycling.

    Telloch expressed that recyclers present a viable alternative to polystyrene. A few months prior, she received a shipment of temperature-sensitive medicine that was packed in styrofoam.

    “I didn’t want that; it wasn’t good,” Telloch remarked. “If they could utilize a recyclable option instead, that would be fantastic.”

    The potential impact of reusable transport coolers is significant, studies indicate. Materials such as polystyrene and polyethylene commonly used in coolers are non-biodegradable and pose threats to both human and animal health. Styrene carcinogens are released during production and usage. These lightweight materials tend to break apart and contaminate the environment as wildlife ingest microplastics. Plastic foam made with these compounds can persist in nature for thousands of years, as noted by the United Nations Environment Programme.

    “Polystyrene foam is particularly harmful,” said Janet Domenitz, executive director of the Massachusetts Student Public Interest Research Group, a student advocacy organization focused on public health and environmental protection. “It’s much lighter than other plastics, making it easy for wind to carry it into landfills and the environment.”

    Proponents of polystyrene argue that the material is cost-effective since its lightweight nature requires less energy and water compared to paper or fiber alternatives. The plastics industry organization did not respond to requests for comment.

    Nevertheless, numerous lawmakers across the U.S. are contemplating bans on polystyrene products. In March, Senator Chris Van Hollen and Rep. Lloyd Doggett introduced the Bubble Farewell Act, which aims to prohibit the sale and distribution of polystyrene products by 2028. Additionally, California enacted a law in 2022 mandating plastics and packaging companies to minimize single-use plastics, although its implementation remains pending amid uncertain circumstances.

    Globally, there is a push to eliminate plastic foam packaging, with numerous countries like Canada, Germany, and Zimbabwe having banned or restricted styrofoam, particularly in food services and packaging.

    Julie Etter Simpson, co-owner of CCS, emphasized that Recycoolers are developed to align with these evolving laws.

    “Product versatility is key to our commitment to environmental responsibility,” she stated.

    Yaniv Abitan, managing director of Insulpack Group, an international cold package distribution company, remarked that his company has evaluated the recycling personnel and believes it will drive significant environmental initiatives as the industry shifts away from single-use plastics and EPS forms.

    “We recognize the urgent need for eco-friendly alternatives that do not compromise on performance,” Avitan concluded. “Recyclers symbolize the direction the industry is headed towards for domestic and international cold chain transportation.”

    Source: www.nbcnews.com

    Key Elements of Dark Chocolate Might Promote Healthy Aging

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    Here’s a rewritten version of your content while preserving the HTML structure:

    <div id="">
    <p>
        <figure class="ArticleImage">
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                <img class="Image" alt="" width="1350" height="900" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=500 500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=600 600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=700 700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=800 800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=837 837w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=900 900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1003 1003w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1100 1100w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1200 1200w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1300 1300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1400 1400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1500 1500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1600 1600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1674 1674w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1700 1700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1800 1800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1900 1900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=2006 2006w" loading="eager" fetchpriority="high" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2478769" data-caption="Dark chocolate is a particularly rich source of theobromine" data-credit="Studio-N/Shutterstock"/>
            </div>
            <figcaption class="ArticleImageCaption">
                <div class="ArticleImageCaption__CaptionWrapper">
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Dark chocolate is a notable source of theobromine, a beneficial chemical</p>
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Studio-N/Shutterstock</p>
                </div>
            </figcaption>
        </figure>
    </p>
    <p>While chocolate may be associated with anti-aging benefits, it’s wise to be cautious before indulging. The beneficial compounds are predominantly found in dark chocolate, and the overall health impact of chocolate consumption remains uncertain.</p>
    <p>"There are numerous aspects of dark chocolate, each with its pros and cons," says <a href="https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/90100-ramy-saad/publications">Rumy Sars</a> from University College London.</p>

    <p>The substance in question, theobromine, is famously known to be toxic to dogs. However, that's just one aspect...</p>
</div>

    Feel free to modify any specific terms or phrases further!

    Source: www.newscientist.com

    How Nearly a Century of Happiness Research Unveiled a Key Finding

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    When Lyubomirsky joined Stanford’s Graduate School of Social Psychology in 1989, the study of happiness was just beginning to earn respectability in academia. Ed Diener, a psychologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, would later gain recognition for his contributions to the field. Despite his long-standing interest in happiness, he chose to wait until he achieved tenure before diving into the subject. Similarly, Lyubomirsky was hesitant to specialize in happiness; as a serious scientist, she felt that topics related to “emotion” were often regarded as less rigorous. However, after an engaging discussion with her advisor on her first day at Stanford, she resolved to make happiness her primary focus.

    Lyubomirsky began by exploring the fundamental question of why some individuals experience greater happiness than others. A few years prior, Diener had published a survey that examined existing research, highlighting the types of behaviors often associated with happy individuals. However, the studies often yielded conflicting results, leading to a lack of definitive answers. Lyubomirsky’s own findings indicated that mindset plays a significant role; happy individuals tended to avoid comparing themselves to others, held positive views of those around them, made fulfilling choices, and did not dwell on negativity.

    Yet, Lyubomirsky recognized the complexity of cause and effect. Did a happy disposition foster a healthy mindset, or did adopting a positive outlook lead to increased happiness? Were people inherently predisposed to a certain level of happiness, much like mothers clustering together? She pondered whether it was possible to shift one’s mindset, noting that such changes often required extensive time—many people spend years in therapy attempting to achieve this, often without success. This prompted her to investigate whether simpler, quicker actions could enhance well-being.

    To this end, Lyubomirsky researched various habits and practices thought to uplift mood, such as random acts of kindness and expressions of gratitude. Over six weeks, she instructed students to perform five acts of kindness each week—like donating blood or assisting peers with assignments. By the end of the study, these students reported higher levels of happiness compared to a control group. Another group reflected weekly on things they were grateful for, such as “My Mother” and “AOL Instant Messenger,” and similarly experienced an increase in happiness. Although the changes were modest, Lyubomirsky found it intriguing that small, low-cost interventions could enhance students’ quality of life. In 2005, she published a paper asserting that individuals possess significant control over their happiness.

    Lyubomirsky’s research emerged during a time when psychology was reevaluating its objectives and focus. When Martin Seligman, a psychologist from the University of Pennsylvania, took leadership of the American Psychological Association in 1998, he and his colleagues noted that the field had overly concentrated on dysfunction, neglecting the promotion of life satisfaction. He urged his peers to explore themes such as “optimism, courage, work ethic, resilience, interpersonal skills, pleasure, insight, and social responsibility,” advocating a return to making life more fulfilling and productive for everyone.

    Source: www.nytimes.com

    The Trump Administration Endangers Key Climate Change Reports

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    Climate change contributes to events like the Marshall Fire in Colorado, which devastated 1,000 homes in December 2021

    Jim West/Alamy

    The Trump administration has dismissed nearly 400 researchers involved in the forthcoming US national climate assessment. This action may delay the completion of a critical report detailing the impacts of climate change on the nation.

    “The Trump administration has carelessly undermined a vital US climate science report by prematurely discarding its authors without justification or a plan,” said Rachel Cleetus, representing the concerned coalition of scientists.

    This move significantly hampers progress on the sixth National Climate Assessment, designed to inform federal and state governments about climate change risks and their implications. A law enacted by Congress in 1990 mandates that these assessments be produced every four years.

    Although the next report isn’t due until 2027, extensive work has already begun, and the document may exceed 1,000 pages. The latest review, published in 2023, discussed the increasing difficulty of ensuring safe homes, healthy families, dependable public services, sustainable economies, and thriving ecosystems amidst climate challenges.

    In early April, the Trump administration terminated a contract with a consulting firm responsible for coordinating research for upcoming assessments under the US Global Change Research Program. This follows numerous cuts at scientific institutions contributing to these efforts, as well as other actions restricting climate and weather research.

    Despite the challenges, the report’s authors (mostly volunteers) were eager to collaborate, according to Dustin Mulvaney, who was focused on the Southwest section of the report at San Jose State University. “Many of us thought, ‘We can still do this!'”

    However, with all the authors now released, completing the report appears unlikely.

    A NASA spokesman, responsible for the global change research program, chose not to comment. Yet, some report authors stated to New Scientist that they received a brief notification indicating that all authors had been dismissed as agents assessed the “scope” of the evaluations.

    The notification mentioned “future opportunities” for contributions. Ultimately, Congress legally requires these assessments, and the administration can still appoint new authors. Earlier reports emphasized climate risks, while new analyses will likely focus more on how the US is responding to climate change through reduced emissions and infrastructure adaptation.

    Even if the report is eventually published, it may lack the rigor and reliability found in previous assessments, according to Mijin Cha, who was working on emission reductions at the University of California, Santa Cruz. “Now they’ve completely compromised it.”

    “I think everyone is really disheartened by this situation,” she expressed.

    Topics:

    • Climate change/
    • Donald Trump

    Source: www.newscientist.com

    Scientists Unveil the Key to the Perfect Plate of Pasta

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    Italian scientists have figured out how to achieve a flawlessly creamy pasta sauce each time by delving into the physics of cooking Cacio E Pepe.

    Cacio E Pepe translates to “cheese and pepper” and is a classic Italian dish made with pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

    Despite its simplicity, this recipe can easily be mishandled. Combining warm pasta water with cheese can lead to a sticky clump of cheese and watery pasta instead of a smooth, creamy sauce.

    Researchers from the University of Barcelona in Spain, the Max Planck Institute for Complex Systems Physics in Germany, the University of Padova in Italy, and the Institute of Science and Technology in Austria collaborated to analyze the science behind a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce.

    To achieve a completely creamy pasta sauce like Cacio E Pepe, the starch in pasta water serves as a crucial stabilizer when mixed with cheese – Photo Credit: Getty

    “We are Italians living abroad,” said Dr. Ivan di Terlizzi from the Max Planck Institute. “We often gather for dinner and enjoy traditional dishes.

    “While cooking Cacio E Pepe, I thought this would be an intriguing physical system to investigate and explain. Plus, it served a practical purpose to avoid wasting good Pecorino.

    A recent study, published in Liquid Physics by the American Institute of Physics, revealed that the secret to a creamy, cheesy sauce lies in the water.

    Typically, fats like oils and cheese should not mix with water. However, the starch in the pasta water, when added to the cheese, acts as a stabilizer to create creamy emulsions.

    Research author Dr. Daniel Busiello explained to BBC Science Focus that when cheese is heated, its proteins “change composition” and stick together.

    “But starch mitigates this effect by binding to cheese proteins, reducing their direct interactions and thereby limiting aggregation,” he detailed.

    According to scientists, the ideal pasta water for a creamy Cacio E Pepe sauce contains about 2-3% starch, and they advise against accidentally leaving starch in your water.

    “Starch is a critical ingredient, and its quantity can be precisely measured. Therefore, we recommend using accurately measured amounts of starch,” Da Terlizzi said. “This can only be achieved if you have the correct amount of powdered starch in proportion to the cheese you are using.”

    As a result, the researchers suggest adding a measured amount of potato starch or corn flour to the water, rather than pouring raw pasta water directly into the pan.

    They also recommend allowing the water to cool before incorporating the cheese.

    For perfect creaminess, scientists advise first mixing the water and starch, then combining this starch-water mixture with the cheese, adding it all to the pan, and slowly heating it. Finally, add the black pepper and pasta.

    Busiello noted that the scientists’ recipe “remains faithful to Italian traditions,” with the only alteration being the use of powdered starch to maintain control over the amount used.

    “An experienced chef probably does not require our recipe,” he remarked. “However, we offer a method to ensure that traditional Cacio E Pepe can be prepared even in challenging situations, like cooking large amounts of pasta, effortlessly.”

    “Of course, we tested this method with over two kilograms of pasta, and all our guests enjoyed it!”

    Busiello added that measuring starch could also benefit other Italian pasta dishes, such as spaghetti Aglio e olio and Carbonara, which also rely on pasta water and cheese sauce.

    Read more:

    About our experts

    Dr. Daniel M. Busiello is a distinguished PKS fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems in Dresden, Germany, and works as an independent researcher. He previously studied at the University of Salerno and Pisa before completing his PhD in Entropy Production in Non-equilibrium Systems at Padova University.

    Source: www.sciencefocus.com

    Amazon Unveils Kuiper Internet Satellites: Key Insights You Need to Have

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    The competition in space between billionaires Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk is poised to expand into satellite internet.

    Originally launched as an online bookstore three decades ago, Amazon has evolved into a merchandising powerhouse, owning the James Bond franchise and retailing electronics like the Echo smart speaker, along with being a leading provider of cloud computing services.

    Thus, it’s no surprise that Amazon is rolling out the first batch of thousands of satellites under Project Kuiper, designed to provide connectivity in our modern world. The high-speed internet market from space is largely dominated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which offers a similar service. Starlink boasts a vast fleet of satellites and regularly conducts launches, serving millions globally.

    The initial attempt to launch a satellite on April 9 was postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions at the launch site. The company is set to make another attempt this coming Monday.

    The first 27 Project Kuiper satellites are scheduled for launch on Monday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, between 7 PM and 9 PM Eastern Time. They will be lifted aboard the Atlas V rocket, developed by the United Launch Alliance—a collaboration between Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

    ULA plans to provide live coverage starting at 6:35 PM; the company reports a 70% chance of an on-time launch.

    The rocket will place the Kuiper satellites into a circular orbit approximately 280 miles above Earth. The satellites’ propulsion systems will gradually elevate them to an orbit of 393 miles.

    Project Kuiper comprises a network of internet satellites designed to deliver high-speed data connections to nearly every location on Earth. To achieve this, thousands of satellites are necessary, with Amazon aiming to deploy over 3,200 within the next few years.

    The project competes with SpaceX’s Starlink, which primarily caters to residential customers.

    Kuiper aims to target remote areas while also integrating with Amazon Web Services, the cloud computing solution that is highly valued by large enterprises and governments worldwide. This could make it particularly appealing for businesses needing satellite imagery and weather forecasts to carry out data processing, alongside the capacity to transfer large volumes of data over the internet.

    Ground stations will link the Kuiper satellites to the service infrastructure, allowing businesses to interact with their own remote devices. For instance, Amazon indicates that energy firms could leverage Kuiper to monitor and manage remote wind farms and offshore drilling operations.

    In October 2023, two prototype Kuiper satellites were launched for technology testing. Amazon stated that the tests were successful, but these prototypes were not intended for long-term operational constellations; after seven months, they re-entered the atmosphere. The company noted that they have since refined the design of all systems and subsystems.

    “There’s a significant difference between launching two satellites and launching 3,000 satellites,” remarked Rajeev Badyal, an Amazon executive overseeing Kuiper, in a promotional video ahead of the launch.

    Amazon informed the Federal Communications Commission in 2020 that the service would commence after the deployment of the initial 578 satellites. The company anticipates that customers will be able to access the internet later this year.

    While a fully operational constellation requires thousands of satellites, it is feasible for the company to serve certain areas with fewer satellites initially, expanding to broader global coverage later.

    The FCC’s approval for the constellation stipulates that at least half of the satellites must be launched by July 30, 2026. Industry experts suggest that if significant progress is shown by that deadline, the company could be granted an extension.

    Launching a satellite also relies on the timely availability of rockets, which can present challenges if there aren’t enough launches lined up. Additionally, Amazon must construct numerous ground stations to relay signals to users.

    Source: www.nytimes.com

    Ancient overpasses may hold the key to understanding human migration from Africa

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    The formation of a large overpass 20 million years ago connected continents, influenced climate, separated oceans, and changed the course of evolution. According to recent papers published in Nature reviews the Earth and the environment, researchers from various disciplines such as plate tectonics, evolutionary anthropology, and climate research provide a comprehensive summary of the closure of the Tethys Seaway.

    About 30 million years ago, the Earth looked drastically different. Africa was isolated from other continents, and the vast Thetis Ocean extended from the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific oceans through the present-day Mediterranean.

    However, approximately 20 million years ago, the first land bridge formed between Africa and Asia, dividing the Tethys Sea into the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdel64rkkqe

    This land bridge allowed mammals like ancestors, giraffes, and elephants to migrate from Africa to Asia and Europe, influencing the evolution of both land and sea creatures and plants.

    Scientists explain how they believe this land bridge was created. Around 50-60 million years ago, rock slabs descended into the Earth’s mantle, forming “conveyor belts” for hot rocks to rise in underground plumes.

    About 30 million years later, these hot rocks reached the surface when tectonic plates collided, leading to the uplift of land that connected Africa for the first time in 75 million years.

    According to Eivind Straume, a leading author of the study, the formation of this land bridge had a significant impact on continental configurations and evolutionary paths of animals migrating between Africa and Asia.

    Researchers suggest that the closure of the Tethys Seaway has affected global climate, causing desertification in the Sahara, intensifying monsoon seasons in Southeast Asia, and enhancing marine biodiversity.

    Read more:

    Source: www.sciencefocus.com

    Studies suggest that even protein-rich vegan diets may lack key nutrients

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    Recent research suggests that individuals following a vegan diet may be missing out on key nutrients essential for muscle building, even if their overall protein intake appears to be adequate.

    A study conducted in New Zealand found that some long-term vegans were deficient in essential amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, which can impact overall nutrition.

    Proteins consist of amino acids, with nine of them being considered “essential” as they cannot be produced by the body. Lysine and leucine are two essential amino acids crucial for healthy growth, energy production, and muscle repair.

    The study, published in the journal PLOS 1, analyzed food diaries from 193 long-term vegans. It was discovered that while around 75% of participants met daily protein recommendations, only about half of them obtained sufficient lysine and leucine after accounting for protein digestibility.

    The researchers emphasized the importance of a balanced and diverse plant-based diet to ensure proper amino acid intake on a vegan diet. Both lysine and leucine play critical roles in bodily functions including growth, muscle recovery, and energy production.

    Although the study highlights the potential limitations of protein intake in a vegan diet, it is important to note that it is a snapshot in time and relies on self-reported data. Amino acid digestibility was estimated using animal models, and further research comparing vegan diets with omnivorous or vegetarian diets is needed.

    In conclusion, when it comes to protein intake on a vegan diet, quality and diversity of plant proteins are key. Prioritizing high-quality plant protein sources such as legumes, tofu, tempeh, beans, and soy foods can help ensure adequate amino acid intake for overall health.

    About our experts

    Shireen Kassam is a plant-based nutrition expert and consultant hematologist with a specialized interest in the treatment of lymphoma. She is also a visiting professor at the University of Winchester, Hampshire, leading the development of the UK’s first university-based course in plant-based nutrition.

    Read more:

    Source: www.sciencefocus.com

    Five key points from Trump’s strategy to revive the coal industry

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    The hard hat is back. So is coal that is “beautiful and beautiful.”

    President Trump signed four executive orders on Tuesday to sought to bolster the country’s declining coal industry, including lifting mining restrictions and burning the dirtiest fossil fuels.

    In addition to exempting air pollution restrictions and other coal regulations imposed by the Biden administration, Trump has directed the Justice Department to chase states like California, which aimed to tackle climate change by reducing the use of fossil fuels.

    “I call it beautiful and clean coal. I tell people not to use the word ‘beautiful, clean’,” Trump said in the east room of the White House, surrounded by dozens of men wearing mainly stiff hats. “We are completely ending Joe Biden’s war on beautiful, clean coal.”

    Here are five takeaways from Trump’s orders.

    Trump has always loved coal miners as a masculine symbol.

    At a White House ceremony on Tuesday, he repeatedly mentioned the Burley men who surrounded him, joking about whether the stage could handle their collective weight. He recalled that during the 2016 campaign against Hillary Clinton she was talking about Job Letrain for miners. “She was going to put them in the tech industry where you make little phones and things,” he said gestured at the hives and laughed.

    Coal itself is a strong fossil fuel, he said. “A pound of pounds, coal is the single energy of the most reliable, durable, safe and powerful energy,” Trump said.

    “It’s almost impossible to destroy,” he said. “You can drop a bomb on it and it will be there for you to use the next day.”

    Coal releases more carbon dioxide when burned than any other fossil fuel, making it a major contributor to climate change. More mining and burning of coal adds to pollution that dangerously heats the planet, leading to more frequent and deadly heat waves, droughts, floods, sea level rise and faster melting of Greenland’s ice sheets, Trump said he hopes to win the US.

    Scientists say that to avoid the most devastating effects of climate change, major economies like the United States must cut their emissions sharply, rather than increasing them.

    Coal burning also releases other contaminants, including mercury and sulfur dioxide, which are associated with heart disease, respiratory problems and early death. Mining activities and coal ash from generated power plants pose environmental hazards.

    No coal results were mentioned on Tuesday.

    Regulations limiting the amount of contamination from coal-fired power plants have led to these plants operating more expensively and reduced industry profitability. But, as Trump said, “radical green” policy wasn’t the biggest reason for the decline in coal power over the past two decades. It was cheap natural gas by fracking.

    In the mid-2000s, American excavators completed a method to unlock the enormous reserves of low-cost natural gas from Shalelock. The utility quickly realized that coal could be replaced with cheaper gas.

    According to 2019 Survey At the RAND Journal of Economics, the energy market and low prices of natural gas account for almost all of the decline in coal plants’ profitability between 2005 and 2015, and as a result, retirements of hundreds of coal-fired power plants. “Environmental regulations had little impact on these outcomes,” the study found.

    Trump says he wants to “drill, babe, drill” and lower gas prices.

    “Did you notice that many law firms are signing up for Trump?” the president asked the crowd at a coal event Tuesday.

    He was referring to the multi-million-dollar pro bono legal services some major law firms offered to the Trump administration after the president threatened to target him with executive orders.

    One company covered by the executive order – Paul, Weiss – has promised concessions, including $40 million in pro bono work for a Trump-friendly cause, cutting deals with the White House. Three other companies – Milbank. Skadden, Arps;Wilky Far & Gallagher – Actively agreed to his deal with the White House.

    On Tuesday, Trump indicated that these free legal services would be directed. It fights climate policy and supports the coal industry.

    “We’ll use some of those companies to work with you on your leases and other things,” Trump told coal leaders.

    Tuesday was a good day for the coal industry. Shares of mining company Peabody Energy rose 9%. Alliance Resource Partners led by billionaire coal tycoon Joseph W. Craft III, who led Trump’s fundraising during the presidential election, have risen nearly 5%.

    But many experts are skeptical that Trump can do much to turn the coal outlook up. “Given the limitations on the use of emergency authorities and the symbolic nature of the order, we believe that Trump’s coal executive order is unlikely to have a significant impact on electricity and carbon markets,” wrote an analyst at Capstone, a research firm. They called the coal stock bumps on Tuesday a “overreaction.”

    The average US coal plant is more than 50 years old, and it is often cheaper for utilities to generate electricity using a mix of gas, wind, solar and batteries. Analysts say these fundamentals are difficult to change.

    Source: www.nytimes.com

    Key Points from the Paris AI Summit: Global Inequalities, Energy Issues, and Elon Musk’s Influence on Artificial Intelligence

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      1. Aimerica First

      A speech by US vice president JD Vance represented a disruptive consensus on how to approach AI. He attended the summit alongside other global leaders including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen. I did.

      In his speech at Grand Palais, Vance revealed that the US cannot be hampered by an over-focus on global regulations and safety.

      “We need an international regulatory system that promotes the creation of AI technology rather than strangle it. In particular, our friends in Europe should look to this new frontier, optimistic rather than fear. ” he said.

      China was also challenged. Vance worked with the “authoritarian” regime in warning his peers before the country’s vice-president Zhang Guoqing with a clear reference to Beijing.

      “Some of us in this room learned from our experience partnering with them, and what we’ve learned from your information to the authoritarian masters who try to penetrate, dig into your information infrastructure and seize your information. It means taking the country with you,” he said.

      A few weeks after China’s Deepshek rattles US investors with a powerful new model, Vance’s speech revealed that America is determined to remain a global leader in AI .

      2. Go by yourself

      Naturally, in light of Vance’s exceptionalism, the US refused to sign the diplomatic declaration on “comprehensive and sustainable” AI, which was released at the end of the summit. However, the UK, a major player in AI development, also rejected it, saying the document is not progressing enough to address AI’s global governance and national security implications.

      Achieving meaningful global governance for AI gives us even more distant prospects, as we failed to achieve consensus over seemingly incontroversial documents. The first summit held in Bletchley Park in the UK in 2023, at least voluntarily reached an agreement between major countries and high-tech companies on AI testing.

      A year later, the gathering in Bletchley and Seoul had been carefully agreed, but it was already clear by opening night that this would not happen at the third gathering. In his welcoming speech, Macron threw the shade with a focus on Donald Trump’s fossil fuels, urging investors and tech companies to view France and Europe as AI hubs.

      Looking at the enormous energy consumption required by AI, Macron said France stands out because of its nuclear reliance.

      “I have a good friend on the other side of the ocean who says, ‘drills, babes, drills’. There is no need to drill here. Plugs, babysitting, plugs. Electricity is available,” he said. We have identified various national outlooks and competitive trends at the summit.

      Nevertheless, Henry de Zoete, former AI advisor to Rishi Sunak on Downing Street, said the UK “played the blind man.” “If I didn’t sign the statement, I’d brought about a significant will with Trump’s administrators at almost cost,” he wrote to X.

      3. Are you playing safely?

      Safety, the top of the UK Summit agenda, has not been at the forefront of Paris despite continued concerns.

      Yoshua Bengio, a world-renowned computer scientist and chairman of the major safety report released before the summit, told the Guardians of Paris that the world deals with the meaning of highly intelligent AI. He said that it wasn’t.

      “We have a mental block to the idea that there are machines that are smarter than us,” he said.

      Demis Hassabis ir, head of Google’s AI unit, called for Unity when dealing with AI after there was no agreement over the declaration.

      “It’s very important that the international community continues to come together and discuss the future of AI. We all need to be on the same page about the future we are trying to create.”

      Pointing to potentially worrying scenarios such as powerful AI systems behave at first glance, he added: They are global concerns that require intensive and international cooperation.

      Safety aside, some key topics were given prominent hearings at the summit. Macron’s AI envoy Anne Boubolot says that AI’s current environmental trajectory is “unsustainable” and Christy Hoffman, general secretary of the UNI Global Union, says that AI is productivity at the expense of workers. He said that promoting improvements could lead to an “engine of inequality.” ‘ Welfare.

      4. Progress is accelerating

      There were many mentions of the pace of change. Hassavis said in Paris that the theoretical term for AI systems that match or exceed human on any intellectual task is “probably five years or something apart.”

      Dario Amodei, CEO of US AI company Anthropic, said by 2026 or 2027, AI systems will be like a new country that will take part in the world. It resembles a “a whole new nation inhabited by highly intelligent people who appear on the global stage.”

      Encouraging governments to do more to measure the economic impact of AI, Amodei said advanced AI could represent “the greatest change to the global labor market in human history.” I’ve warned.

      Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGpt developer Openai, has flagged Deep Research, the startup’s latest release, released at the beginning of the month. This is an AI agent, a term for a system that allows users to perform tasks on their behalf, and features the latest, cutting-edge model O3 version of OpenAI.

      Speaking at the Fringe Event, he said the deep research was “a low percentage of all tasks in the world’s economy at the moment… this is a crazy statement.”

      5. China offers help

      Deepseek founder Liang Wenfeng had no shortage of discussion about the startup outcomes, but he did not attend the Paris Summit. Hassavis said Deepshek was “probably the best job I’ve come out of China.” However, he added, “There were no actual new scientific advances.”

      Guoqing said China is willing to work with other countries to protect security and share AI achievements and build a “community with a shared future for humanity.” Zhipu, a Chinese AI company in Paris, has predicted AI systems that will achieve “consciousness” by 2030, increasing the number of claims at the conference that large capacity AI is turning the corner.

      6. Musk’s shadow

      The world’s wealthiest person, despite not attending, was still able to influence events in Paris. The consortium led by Elon Musk has launched a bid of nearly $100 billion for the nonprofit that manages Openai, causing a flood of questions for Altman, seeking to convert the startup into a for-profit company.

      Altman told reporters “The company is not on sale,” and repeated his tongue counter offer, saying, “I’m happy to buy Twitter.”

      We were asked about the future of Openai’s nonprofit organizations. This is to be spun as part of the overhaul while retaining stocks in the profit-making unit. Things…and we’re completely focused on ensuring we save it.

      In an interview with Bloomberg, Altman said the mask bid was probably an attempt to “slow us down.” He added: “Perhaps his life is from a position of anxiety. I feel the man.”

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    How one artist’s vision of Mario Jump made him a key figure in Nintendo’s story | Games

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    IIn 1889, craftsman Fusajiro Yamauchi founded a Hanafuda company in Kyoto, naming it “Nintendo.” Although the exact meaning has been lost over time, historians believe it translates to “leave it to luck.” Nintendo successfully transitioned from paper games to electronic games in the 1970s, establishing itself as a household name worldwide.

    Working at Nintendo was a dream come true for Takaya Imamura, an art school student enamored with games like Metroid and Super Mario Bros. 3 in the 1980s. Despite initial misconceptions about the industry, Imamura discovered the creative opportunities at Nintendo and joined the team in 1989. Over the years, he contributed to iconic projects and characters, solidifying his place in gaming history.

    Imamura’s journey at Nintendo was marked by memorable collaborations with Shigeru Miyamoto, leading to the creation of beloved games and characters. From F-Zero to Zelda and Star Fox, Imamura’s artistic vision helped shape Nintendo’s unique design philosophy. His work reflected a blend of traditional techniques with innovative storytelling, resonating with audiences worldwide.

    As Nintendo evolved under new leadership, Imamura witnessed the company’s strategic shifts and successful product launches. Reflecting on his time at Nintendo, Imamura embraces the transformative era of gaming and technological advancements. His departure from Nintendo in 2021 marked a new chapter in his career as an indie developer, with a passion project inspired by his earliest days in the industry.

    Embracing the spirit of chance and creativity, Imamura’s journey comes full circle with his indie game, Omega Six. Honoring Nintendo’s legacy of dedication and innovation, Imamura continues to explore new frontiers in game development, guided by his enduring vision and passion for storytelling.

    Source: www.theguardian.com

    The key to a flawless morning routine may surprise you

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    Humans tend to mimic those they see as more successful to achieve a similar status, especially those with wealth, fame, and power. Many CEOs, celebrities, and fitness influencers share their routines claiming they lead to maximum productivity and continued success. These routines, like Mark Wahlberg’s early workouts and Grimes’ health routine, may seem extreme and are often at odds with the average person’s lifestyle and science.

    Why do successful individuals promote such challenging routines? It may be to gain a sense of control in their unpredictable lives. Factors like the stock market, economic changes, and social media algorithms can create feelings of anxiety and instability, leading to the adoption of strict routines.

    Successful people may adopt harsh routines to feel in control of their destiny, even if these habits seem illogical. Money and status may play a role in reinforcing extreme behaviors, as individuals strive to maintain their high status among their successful peers.

    Successful people may leverage extreme routines to assert superiority and differentiate themselves from others. However, these routines may polarize groups and push individuals to more extreme behaviors over time.

    While extreme routines may be associated with success, luck also plays a significant role in achieving success. Many highly successful individuals attribute their success to luck, which can create cognitive dissonance for those who prefer to believe in a fair and controlled world.

    Ultimately, success is a complex interplay of various factors, including luck, discipline, hard work, and social advantages. Embracing the role of luck in success can help reconcile conflicting beliefs about the nature of success.

    Source: www.sciencefocus.com

    Staple plant foods high in starch were a key component in the human diet nearly 800,000 years ago

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    Archaeologists say they have extracted various starch granules from stone tools found at an early Middle Pleistocene site in Israel. These include acorns, grass grains, water chestnuts, yellow waterlily rhizomes, and legume seeds.

    Examples of plant parts recovered from Gesher Benot Yaakov's percussion instruments, including whole plants, edible parts, and characteristic starch granules. From left to right: oak, yellow water lily, oat. Scale bar – 20 μm. Image credit: Hadar Ahituv and Yoel Melamed.

    The 780,000-year-old basalt tools were discovered at the early Middle Pleistocene site of Gesher Benot Yaakov, located on the shores of ancient Lake Hula.

    They were examined by a team of researchers led by Bar-Ilan University. Dr. Hadar Ahitub.

    “Our study contradicts the prevailing theory that ancient humans' diets were primarily based on animal protein, as suggested by the popular 'Paleo' diet,” the scientists said. Ta.

    “Many of these diets are based on interpretations of animal bones found at archaeological sites, and very little plant-based food has been preserved.”

    “However, the discovery of starch granules in ancient tools provides new insight into the central role of plants, especially the carbohydrate-rich starchy tubers, nuts and roots essential to the energy needs of the human brain. I got it.”

    “Our research also focuses on the sophisticated methods that early humans used to process plant materials.”

    The authors recorded more than 650 starch granules in basalt maces and anvils, tools used to crack and crush Gesher Benot Yaakov's plant foods.

    These tools are the earliest evidence of human processing of plant foods, and were used to cook a variety of plants, including acorns, grains, legumes, and aquatic plants like yellow water lilies and the now-extinct water chestnut. was used to.

    They also identified microscopic debris such as pollen grains, rodent hair, and feathers, supporting the reliability of the starch findings.

    “This discovery highlights the importance of plant foods in the evolution of our ancestors,” Dr. Ahitub said.

    “We now know that early humans collected a wide variety of plants throughout the year and processed them using tools made of basalt.”

    “This discovery opens a new chapter in the study of the deep relationship between early human diets and plant-based foods.”

    The findings also provide insight into hominin social and cognitive behavior.

    “The use of tools to process plants suggests a high degree of cooperation and social structure, as hominins operated as part of a larger social group,” the researchers said.

    “Their ability to exploit diverse resources from both aquatic and terrestrial environments demonstrates a deep knowledge of their surrounding environment, similar to that of modern humans today.”

    “This discovery is an important milestone in the field of prehistoric research, providing valuable evidence about the diet of our ancient ancestors and providing new perspectives on human evolution and the development of complex societies.”

    Regarding this research, paper this week, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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    Hadar Ahitub others. 2025. Starch-rich plant foods 780,000 years ago: Evidence from Acheulean impact stone tools. PNAS 122 (3): e2418661121;doi: 10.1073/pnas.2418661121

    Source: www.sci.news