Discover Daisy Fancourt’s Insights on Art as Medicine: ‘If Art Had the Healing Power of Medicine, We’d Embrace It Daily’

Posted on February 27, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Regular Engagement with Arts: Transformative Physiological Changes

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Reflecting on my journey into research on the health benefits of art, a pivotal moment stands out. After completing my education, I began working at the NHS, overseeing performing arts programs at Chelsea and Westminster Hospitals in London. One patient’s relative approached me post-performance in a dementia ward and said, “What a wonderful entertainment program you are running.”

This comment, albeit well-intentioned, overlooked the profound impact of our Hospital Arts Program. I personally witnessed transformative effects: a patient, despite memory loss, sang along to White Cliffs of Dover, evoking childhood memories. I observed a child with severe burns who required no morphine during a theater performance, a premature baby who calmed and began eating while his mother sang, and a stroke survivor who walked more steadily upon wearing headphones. While our arts programs offered enjoyable distractions, I recognized their deeper significance in enhancing patients’ health. My curiosity led me to seek a deeper understanding of these effects.

Over the past decade, I have dedicated my research as a psychobiologist and epidemiologist to acknowledge the health benefits associated with art engagement. Findings from numerous global studies reveal that activities like reading, listening to music, dancing, or crafting activate essential biological processes that support our health. Participating in the arts stimulates our brain’s reward system, elevating dopamine levels tied to mood and pleasure. Furthermore, we regulate autonomic nervous system activity, which contributes to lower heart rates and decreased blood pressure over time. Notably, our stress hormones diminish, as do inflammatory responses within our immune system. We can even modify gene expression, reducing stress-related genes while enhancing those that promote neurogenesis.

Regularly engaging in arts over extended periods fosters significant physiological changes. It’s shown to increase gray matter in brain regions vital for memory, auditory processing, and motor skills. Furthermore, we produce unique protein patterns associated with improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of depression and infections. A recent study employing various biological metrics, including brain clocks and epigenetic evaluations, indicates that consistent engagement with the arts correlates with a younger biological age.

These profound changes significantly influence our overall well-being. Individuals who actively participate in the arts tend to report greater happiness, enhanced life satisfaction, purpose, and a reduced risk of developing conditions such as depression, chronic pain, frailty, and even dementia. These beneficial relationships hold even when accounting for factors like wealth, demographics, medical history, or lifestyle choices.

These promising results are drawn from randomized controlled trials, laboratory experiments, and large-scale epidemiological studies examining the art’s population-level impacts. Numerous specific artistic interventions in medical settings for designated patient groups—like singing programs for stroke survivors or dance classes for individuals with Parkinson’s disease—underscore art’s potential benefits. Some trials suggest that art might be even more effective for managing pre-operative anxiety than traditional anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, with fewer side effects proving its efficacy.

Nevertheless, while engaging in the arts is a promising avenue of exploration, it is not a cure-all. Various instances of art-related harm exist due to misuse or inadequate project design. I have actively countered misconceptions, such as the idea of art as a cure for boosting intelligence or combating serious health issues like cancer. Although the field remains ripe with potential and ongoing research, we eagerly anticipate larger-scale trials.

If a medication boasted this array of health benefits, we would enthusiastically promote it, invest resources in its development, and ensure its accessibility. It is exhilarating to watch the recommendations I promote materialize—not as prescriptions or medical interventions, but as enjoyable experiences like attending a concert, participating in dance lessons, or simply reading a book, potentially including my own.

Daisy Fancourt is the author of Art Cure: The Science of How Art Changes Our Health (Cornerstone Press) and featured in the March reading list of the New Scientist Book Club. Join us here to participate in the discussion!

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Human Fratus Atlas: Measuring the Explosive Power of Flatulence

Posted on February 26, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback is the New Scientist’s platform for engaging with our readers, especially those passionate about the latest in science and technology news. If you have insights or suggestions for articles that might interest our audience, please reach out via feedback@newscientist.com.

It’s Gas

Our feedback feels bold, so here’s a prediction: the research discussed here is likely to win an Ig Nobel Prize within the next decade. This project aims to objectively measure human flatulence using innovative biosensors, affectionately dubbed “smart underwear.”

We learned about this intriguing study from a press release featuring Carmela Padavik Callahan, a professor at the University of Maryland and a physics reporter. She noted, “Certainly we could do something with this feedback.”

The main challenge is that, unlike established biomarkers such as blood sugar, we lack a benchmark for bloating. Most existing studies depend on self-reporting, which is unreliable since individuals often forget their flatulence events and can’t accurately judge their frequency or size. Additionally, it’s “impossible to record gas while sleeping.” Anyone who has shared a bed with another person knows that everyone farts during slumber.

This is where smart underwear comes in, developed by Brantley Hall and colleagues. According to the press release, it’s a compact device that discreetly fits over standard underwear and utilizes electrochemical sensors to track intestinal gas production around the clock. Curious about the size? The sensor measures just 26 x 29 x 9 millimeters—pretty small, though participants may want to steer clear of skinny jeans during testing.

Initial research revealed that “healthy adults fart an average of 32 times per day,” approximately double previous assumptions. However, this varies widely, with reported farts per day ranging from 4 to 59.

As smart underwear becomes more widely adopted, data will contribute to the larger initiative known as the Human Flatus Atlas. Interested participants can register at flatus.info to track their gas output. This exciting project invites users to discover whether they are hydrogen over-producers, or if they’re more like Zen digesters who barely fart after a meal of baked beans.

Feedback raises questions about the sensor’s durability regarding substantial flatulence. Notably, we recently heard about an individual who ended up in a French hospital after attempting to hide unexploded ordnance from World War I, necessitating bomb disposal assistance. We can’t help but wonder if Smart Underwear was overwhelmed by such an incident.

On a brighter note, the principal researchers are keen to enhance technology in this field. Their website is minimalist, featuring a gas animation, a motivating slogan (“Measure. Master. Thrive.”), and the promise that “the future of gut health is just around the corner.” Feedback suggests a monthly subscription app might be on the horizon.

Ghost in the Machine

As AI companies integrate cutting-edge technology into our daily lives, many find it challenging to grasp its implications. With most people lacking a deep understanding of AI, we often rely on metaphors and analogies to conceptualize these advancements.

A particularly insightful analogy comes from a user on Bluesky, who described AI as “a hungry ghost trapped in a bottle.” This serves as a guideline to help us assess our use of AI wisely. If substituting “AI” with “starving ghost in a jar” still makes sense in your context, you’re likely employing AI appropriately.

“Think of it this way: ‘I have a bunch of hungry ghosts in a bottle. They’re mainly writing SQL queries for me.’ That’s reasonable,” the user elaborates. “But ‘My girlfriend is a hungry ghost in a bottle’? Definitely not okay.”

Equally concerning is the flood of unsolicited AI-generated content we encounter. From fake romance novels to AI summaries of searches and conferences, it’s overwhelming. We need an effective way to summarize our responses to such texts.

In this context, the popular internet abbreviation “tl;dr,” meaning “too long to read,” evolves into “ai;dr,” conveying similar sentiments about AI-generated material.

With countless anecdotes highlighting spectacular failures when using AI for critical tasks, one can only marvel at the mishaps. We’ve heard tales of venture capitalists asking AI tools to organize desktops, only to end up erasing 15 years’ worth of photos with a mere “oops” message (luckily, those files were later recovered). Other accounts reveal AI hallucinating entire months’ worth of analytical data.

Reflecting on this, author Nick Pettigrew shared a compelling perspective on Bluesky: “I believe that AI is the radium of our generation. While it has genuinely useful applications in controlled settings, we’ve carelessly infused it into everything from children’s toys to toothpaste, leading to unforeseen complications that future generations may question.”

There’s certainly more to unpack on this topic, but perhaps the AI will humorously eliminate those thoughts as well—definitely a modern twist on the classic “the dog ate my homework” excuse.

Qubit

It seems the feedback has gone years without acknowledging the contributions of quantum information theorists—a notable oversight on our part.

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If you have an article idea, please email us at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your home address. You can find this week’s feedback and previous editions on our website.

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Power Prices Plummet as State Nears 100% Renewable Energy Transition

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Discover the Massive Solar Power Plant of Port Augusta, South Australia

Brooke Mitchell/Getty Images

As South Australia progresses toward achieving its ambitious goal of operating entirely on solar and wind energy, electricity prices have decreased by one-third over the past year, making them the lowest in Australia. This state serves as a leading example of the economic advantages linked to large-scale grid decarbonization.

“Tim Buckley, an independent energy analyst at Climate Energy Finance, an Australian think tank, highlights that South Australia has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy transition. While this transformation comes with challenges, we take pride in our successes. South Australian consumers are now reaping the benefits of consistently low electricity prices,” he states.

In the final quarter of 2025, South Australia generated an impressive 84% of its electricity from solar and wind sources. This exceptional percentage makes it the highest among major global power grids, with plans to reach 100% by the end of next year.

This renewable energy push is driving electricity prices down. The Independent Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) reported that South Australia’s average wholesale electricity price fell by 30% in the last quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. Consequently, the state now shares the title of Australia’s cheapest state with Victoria, which also boasts a significant share of renewable energy.

This is a significant achievement for the South Australian government, previously criticized for rising electricity prices due to rapid renewable energy implementation. Occasionally, electricity bills surged as the state relied on costly gas energy when wind and solar outputs dwindled. Gas producers charged high prices to meet sporadic demand, a challenge exacerbated by rising petrol prices in Australia, which surged by 500% following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

To reduce price fluctuations, South Australia has developed seven extensive batteries comparable to football fields. These batteries harness energy generated by nearby solar and wind farms on sunny, windy days, providing backup power when conventional sources fall short. The introduction of two new batteries in 2025 significantly contributed to lowering energy costs.

The success of these batteries has motivated other Australian states to invest in similar technologies. Last week, consultancy Rystad Energy noted in a report that utility-scale batteries are no longer merely supplementary technology in Australia’s energy landscape, actively replacing gas fueled generation across several states. Consequently, Australia is becoming a global showcase for the effectiveness of battery technology in energy storage.

A new massive wind farm in South Australia, named Goyder South, which opened in October, is also contributing to lower electricity prices. With a capacity of 412 megawatts, it is the largest in the state and is expected to boost wind energy generation by 20%. Buckley emphasizes, “Basic economics indicates that increasing supply leads to reduced prices.”

AEMO’s report also highlighted that wholesale electricity prices were negative for approximately 48% of the time in the past quarter, indicating that the state produced more electricity than consumed, resulting in incentives for electricity suppliers to halt production during excess generation periods.

For instance, in November, South Australia achieved a remarkable milestone when it met 157% of its electricity demand solely through renewable energy. In these instances, excess wind and solar power caused temporary disconnections from the grid, allowing batteries to store the surplus energy for later use or export to nearby Victoria.

Many households in South Australia are also reducing their dependency on grid electricity by generating their own power. Over half of the residences now have solar panels installed, harnessing daytime sunlight for energy. Additionally, nearly 50,000 households have invested in home storage batteries, charged during the day and utilized after sunset. Since the launch of a 30% rebate on household batteries in July 2025, South Australia leads the nation in per capita home battery installations.

In December, the state concluded agreements to construct two additional large-scale wind farms, vital steps toward achieving its goal of 100% net renewable energy by next year. “We are well on our way to achieving this target, and the new wind farms will play a critical role in this success,” Buckley stated.

Fossil Hunting in the Australian Outback

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the fossil-rich landscapes of eastern Australia, a region that was once a shallow inland sea millions of years ago. Join us for 13 unforgettable days as we delve deep into the hinterland, follow the ancient trails of colossal prehistoric creatures, and explore the incredible secrets of Earth’s ancient past.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Ancient Peruvian Civilization Gained Power Through Guano Harvesting

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Valued for Centuries: Peruvian Pelican and Booby Droppings

Biljana Aljinovic/Alamy

Peruvian seabird droppings — Valued for Centuries: Peruvian Pelican and Booby Droppings

Biljana Aljinovic/Alamy

A potent fertilizer derived from seabird droppings likely played a crucial role in the rise of Peru’s agricultural kingdom 900 years ago, contributing to its eventual conquest by the Incas.

Recent chemical analysis of ancient corn cobs from southern Peru revealed elevated nitrogen isotope levels, indicating the maize was fertilized with a nutrient-rich blend of seabird excrement, feathers, and organic matter known as guano. This discovery represents the strongest evidence yet that indigenous Chincha farmers and traders sourced this exceptional fertilizer from nearby islands to enhance their crop yields and elevate their socio-economic status, according to Jacob Bongers at the University of Sydney.

“Access to vital resources can pave the way to power; here, the Chincha kingdom had the upper hand, while the Incas did not,” he states. “Social change may have originated from an unexpected source: bird droppings. It’s quite the intriguing narrative.”

Between 1000 and 1400 AD, the affluent and populous Kingdom of Chincha dominated one of Peru’s most fertile coastal valleys until its eventual incorporation into the Inca Empire in the 15th century.

The Chincha Valley lies just 25 kilometers from the Chincha Islands, home to large colonies of Peruvian pelicans (Pelecanus sagus), Peruvian boobies (Sula variegata), and Guanaius (leucocarbo bougainvilli), as well as penguins and gulls. These islands are known as guano islands. Bird droppings became renowned globally in the 19th century for their remarkable nutritional properties, primarily due to their high nitrogen content.

The use of guano by the Incas is well documented in early colonial records, which describe stringent state regulations governing the islands and substantial penalties for harming seabirds. However, until now, researchers lacked solid archaeological proof that the ancestors of the Chincha were already exploiting this valuable resource. Historians have long suggested that seabird fertilizers significantly bolstered the kingdom’s economic success, Bongers notes. Images of seabirds depicted on ceremonial artifacts, textiles, pottery, and architectural features further indicate that these birds held special significance for the Chincha people.

Bongers and his team gathered numerous ancient corn cobs (possibly offerings for the deceased) from Chincha tombs, hoping to unlock this mystery.

He collaborated with Emily Milton from the Smithsonian Institution, analyzing 35 corn cobs from 14 cemeteries in the Chincha Valley for their carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios. Together with Bongers, Milton and their colleagues also examined collagen from the bones of 11 ancient seabirds from the region, including pelicans, boobies, cormorants, gulls, and penguins, to establish a local isotope baseline for guano.

The bone analysis showed elevated nitrogen-15 levels typical of seabirds, while many corn cobs displayed even higher nitrogen isotope ratios indicative of guano fertilization.

These findings confirm that the Chincha people were utilizing island resources by at least 1250, says Joe Osborne from Texas A&M University.

Guano may have facilitated the economic expansion of the Chincha kingdom and enhanced its bargaining capacity when later absorbed into the Inca Empire, with broader implications for understanding how marine fertilizers influenced social transformations throughout the Andes, the researchers contend.

“It’s logical that ancient Peruvians harnessed guano as fertilizer,” remarks Dan Sandweiss from the University of Maine, who was not involved in the study. “Traveling to the islands for such a valuable resource would certainly have been worthwhile!”

Chincha guano is exceptionally valuable, possibly because its limited rainfall allows the nitrogen to remain largely intact. “This Peruvian guano was indeed a treasure,” he adds.

Explore Machu Picchu: The Science of the Incas in Peru

Dive into the pivotal ruins of the Inca civilization with two visits to Machu Picchu, and uncover the rich narrative that extends beyond a single site.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Royal Navy Revives Wind Power with Innovative Robotic Sailboat Trials

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Oshen’s Robotic Sailboats Powered by Wind and Sun

Credit: Oshen

The Royal Navy of Britain is embracing its sailing heritage with an innovative fleet of small, wind-powered robots.

The vessel, named C-Star, was developed by Ocean Ltd. in Plymouth, England. Measuring only 1.2 meters in length and weighing approximately 40 kilograms, C-Star utilizes solar panels to power its navigation, communication, and sensors, while its sails enable propulsion. These small vessels operate in clusters, forming an extensive sensor network.

“C-Star can be described as a self-deploying, position-maintaining offshore buoy,” stated Anahita Laverack, CEO of Ocean.

Each C-Star can cover around 80 miles daily at a speed of approximately 2 knots or remain stationary using the wind for propulsion. “In CCTV networks, speed isn’t a priority,” Laverack explained. “The goal is to position the sensors where they are most needed.”

In a recent test announcement, a larger robotic ship will deploy three C-Stars into designated areas. Once in position, C-Star will transmit acoustic signals from an unmanned submarine. In practical applications, numerous C-Stars will likely be utilized.

“With just one C-Star, adversaries could ascertain the general location of the submarine you’re communicating with. However, deploying 100 makes the submarine’s exact position unpredictable,” Laverack noted.

These unmanned vessels have the capacity to remain at sea for over six months, enduring even extreme maritime conditions. Last year, C-Stars set a precedent as the first unmanned vessel to provide live data from within a Category 5 hurricane, as part of a research initiative with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

If the Navy’s demonstration is successful, these robotic sailing ships could take on diverse roles. Their functions may include communication with submarines, gathering intelligence from undersea sensors, and establishing patrol lines to detect ships, approaching missiles, and drones attempting to elude radar detection.

C-Star is also envisioned as an ideal solution for submarine detection, offering an alternative to disposable sonar-equipped buoys that have a brief operational lifespan. Utilizing hydrophones, these vessels can listen for submarines and capture sonar signals reflecting off external sources such as warships. This would allow C-Star to effectively illuminate the surrounding area for detection.

According to Blair Thornton, a researcher at the University of Southampton, UK, the adoption of solar and wind-powered unmanned vessels has steadily progressed over the past decade, with around 100 such vessels now in operation. He emphasizes that autonomy will be crucial for these fleets.

“The operational cost of the platform is important, but so is the extent of monitoring required for its operation,” Thornton remarked. “Combining long-term durability with efficient performance while minimizing human intervention presents a significant advantage, facilitating the operation of extensive fleets of autonomous systems.”

The forthcoming demonstration aims to illustrate how seamlessly C-Star can integrate with existing naval systems. Should the Navy decide to proceed with an order, Oshen can deliver up to 1,000 boats within a nine-month timeframe.

“The next phase will involve software enhancements aimed at providing more detailed information and facilitating better coverage of larger areas with fewer C-Stars,” Laverack added.

Article Updated on February 12, 2026

Clarified communication details between C-Star and submarine during trials.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Nanomaterial Design to Enhance Solar Power Efficiency by Harnessing More Sunlight

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers from Korea University are paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective renewable energy generation by utilizing gold nanospheres designed to capture light across the entire solar spectrum.

Hung Lo et al. introduced plasmonic colloidal superballs as a versatile platform for broadband solar energy harvesting. Image credit: Hung Lo et al., doi: 10.1021/acsami.5c23149.

Scientists are exploring novel materials that efficiently absorb light across the solar spectrum to enhance solar energy harvesting.

Gold and silver nanoparticles have been identified as viable options due to their ease of fabrication and cost-effectiveness, yet current nanoparticles primarily absorb visible wavelengths.

To extend absorption into additional wavelengths, including near-infrared light, researcher Seungwoo Lee and colleagues from Korea University propose the innovative use of self-assembled gold superballs.

These unique structures consist of gold nanoparticles aggregating to form small spherical shapes.

The diameter of the superball was meticulously adjusted to optimize absorption of sunlight’s diverse wavelengths.

The research team first employed computer simulations to refine the design of each superball and predict the overall performance of the superball film.

Simulation outcomes indicated that the superball could absorb over 90% of sunlight’s wavelengths.

Next, the scientists created a film of gold superballs by drying a solution containing these structures on a commercially available thermoelectric generator, a device that converts light energy into electricity.

Films were produced under ambient room conditions—no cleanroom or extreme temperatures needed.

In tests using an LED solar simulator, the average solar absorption rate of the superball-coated thermoelectric generator reached approximately 89%, nearly double that of a conventional thermoelectric generator featuring a single gold nanoparticle membrane (45%).

“Our plasmonic superball offers a straightforward method to harness the entire solar spectrum,” said Dr. Lee.

“Ultimately, this coating technology could significantly reduce barriers for high-efficiency solar and photothermal systems in real-world energy applications.”

The team’s research is published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.

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Ro Kyung Hoon et al.. 2026. Plasmonic Supraball for Scalable Broadband Solar Energy Generation. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 18 (1): 2523-2537; doi: 10.1021/acsami.5c23149

Source: www.sci.news

Why We Misjudged the Power of Prompting People to Drive Positive Change

Posted on January 22, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Explore groundbreaking science news and in-depth analyses featured in New Scientist.

Environmental and social challenges are urgent, yet many nations grapple with underfunding and political stalemates. Imagine if we could innovate ways to tackle these issues effectively and economically without the burden of partisan politics!

Nearly two decades ago, we and our colleagues in behavioral sciences considered this a real possibility. We proposed a sophisticated idea: social issues often stem from individuals making “poor” choices, whether it’s unhealthy eating, smoking, or polluting the environment. Traditional approaches rely on taxes or bans, but our fresh perspective aimed to encapsulate a gentler, psychologically aware method. By rethinking how choices are presented, we could encourage healthier and more sustainable options, while still allowing access to alternatives.

“Nudges” were viewed as potential solutions, suggesting that societal issues could be mitigated through slight shifts in individual behavior. For instance, to combat obesity, we might reduce portion sizes and reposition salad bars at the forefront of cafeterias. To address climate concerns, why not default homeowners to renewable energy options?

Initially, it appeared we were on the verge of a nudge revolution. A team of researchers, including ourselves, sought to identify subtle modifications in “choice architecture” that could spur behavioral changes and ultimately result in major societal impacts. This presents a golden opportunity to leverage psychological insights for transformative progress.

Fast forward almost 20 years and progress remains stagnated, leaving many disappointed. When nudges do yield results, the effects are minimal, short-lived, and often fail to scale. Furthermore, emphasizing individual behavior as the primary lens for societal problems may inadvertently empower various corporate entities to resist the more traditional yet effective policy measures like taxation and regulation that reshuffle the foundational rules and incentives driving societal actions, jeopardizing their interests.

In hindsight, we realize this outcome shouldn’t come as a surprise, though it certainly was at the time. Given that human psychology has remained fundamentally unchanged, the social dilemmas we face arise from systemic shifts—not individual choices. Events like 200 years of fossil fuel reliance or the surge of ultra-processed foods over recent decades are to blame, and individuals alone cannot resolve issues like carbon emissions or unhealthy eating patterns. Moreover, a focus on individual behaviors risks distracting policymakers and the public from recognizing the need for systemic reforms and policy-driven solutions.

Correctly identifying the problem might lead to companies resistant to regulations fortifying individual-level responses that seem effective but fall short. This phenomenon is already observable, as evidenced by attention-grabbing concepts like our personal “carbon footprint.” This branding didn’t emerge from environmental movements or NGOs but originated from a massive PR campaign by BP, one of the globe’s leading fossil fuel corporations, in the early 2000s.

No matter the social or environmental challenge at hand, those opposing comprehensive change often redirect the responsibility back to individuals. As behavioral scientists, we must avoid this trap moving forward.

Behavioral scientist Nick Chater and George Loewenstein explore these themes in their new book, On You (WH Allen), released on January 27th.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Chernobyl Cooling System Power Loss: Low Meltdown Risk Explained

Posted on January 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The Chernobyl nuclear power plant has endured multiple attacks following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

AFP

A recent power outage at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine has disrupted the spent fuel cooling system, increasing the risk of overheating and the potential release of harmful radiation. Fortunately, the stored fuel is aged and expected to remain safe until power is restored.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Russian military actions have targeted multiple electrical substations in Ukraine, leading to the current power outage at Chernobyl. “The IAEA is closely monitoring these developments to ensure nuclear safety,” stated IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi in a recent update on X.

Spent nuclear fuel continues to emit radiation and generate heat for years after being removed from a reactor. Without proper cooling, the fuel can melt, resulting in dangerous radiation levels. Currently, Chernobyl’s old fuel is stored in large cooling ponds that are regularly replenished with cold water to maintain safe temperatures.

However, the IAEA reported that the site lacks a power supply, which halts cooling efforts, leading to increased water temperatures and evaporation rates.

“Once the fuel is out of the reactor, it remains hot due to the production of fission products and radiative materials. It’s essential to manage this heat effectively, or it may eventually lead to a meltdown,” explained Paul Cosgrove from Cambridge University. More information can be found on his profile here.

Fortunately, the risk associated with the stored fuel at Chernobyl is lower today compared to 2022 when similar power outages occurred, as the fuel has already cooled significantly over the years. New Scientist reported this decrease in risk.

“Power loss at nuclear facilities is concerning, but the perceived nuclear risks often far exceed the actual risks associated with comparable incidents,” noted Ian Farnan from Cambridge University. More details about his work can be found here.

The Chernobyl disaster involved a reactor explosion in 1986, with reactors 2, 1, and 3 being shut down in 1991, 1996, and 2000, respectively.

While details of the storage pool containing Chernobyl’s remaining fuel are classified, Cosgrove indicated that evaluations conducted in 2022 found minimal risk of overheating during power outages. “This fuel has been stored safely for over 20 years, leading to significant energy dissipation,” he emphasized.

Electricity delivery to Chernobyl, as well as much of Ukraine, has fluctuated since the commencement of the full-scale Russian invasion. Recently, heightened attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure by Russian forces have exacerbated the situation.

This power outage at Chernobyl represents yet another instance of Russian actions undermining nuclear safety, including the temporary occupation of Chernobyl, preventing necessary maintenance, the seizure of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and last February’s drone attack on the containment structures above the ruins of Chernobyl’s reactor 4.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Some Quantum Computers Demand More Power Than Traditional Supercomputers

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

El Capitan Supercomputer: Power Play in Quantum Computing

Credit: LLNL/Garry McLeod

El Capitan, the National Nuclear Security Administration's leading exascale computer — El Capitan Supercomputer: Power Play in Quantum Computing

Credit: LLNL/Garry McLeod

The advancement of large quantum computers offers the potential to solve complex problems beyond the reach of today’s most powerful classical supercomputers. However, this leap in capability may come with increased energy demands.

Currently, most existing quantum computers are limited in size, with less than 1,000 qubits. These fragile qubits are susceptible to errors, hindering their ability to tackle significant issues, like aiding in drug discovery. Experts agree that to reach practical utility, a Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computer (FTQC) must emerge, with a much higher qubit count and robust error correction. The engineering hurdles involved in this pursuit are substantial, compounded by multiple competing designs.

Olivier Ezratty, from the Quantum Energy Initiative (QEI), warns that the energy consumption of utility-scale FTQCs has been largely overlooked. During the Q2B Silicon Valley Conference in Santa Clara, California, on December 9, he presented his preliminary estimates. Notably, some FTQC designs could eclipse the energy requirements of the world’s top supercomputers.

For context, El Capitan, the fastest supercomputer globally, located at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, draws approximately 20 megawatts of electricity—three times that of the nearby city of Livermore, which has a population of 88,000. Ezratty forecasts that FTQC designs scaling up to 4,000 logical qubits may demand even more energy. Some of the power-hungry designs could require upwards of 200 megawatts.

Ezratty’s estimates derive from accessible data, proprietary insights from quantum tech firms, and theoretical models. He outlines a wide energy consumption range for future FTQCs, from 100 kilowatts to 200 megawatts. Interestingly, he believes that three forthcoming FTQC designs could ultimately operate below 1 megawatt, aligning with conventional supercomputers utilized in research labs. This variance could significantly steer industry trends, particularly as low-power models become more mainstream.

The discrepancies in projected energy use stem from the various strategies that quantum computing companies employ to construct and maintain their qubits. For instance, certain qubit technologies necessitate extensive cooling to function effectively. Light-based qubits struggle with warm light sources and detectors, leading to heightened energy consumption. Similarly, superconducting circuits require entire chips to be housed in large refrigeration systems, while designs based on trapped ions or ultracold atoms demand substantial energy input from lasers or microwaves to precisely control qubits.

Oliver Dial from IBM, known for superconducting quantum computers, anticipates that his company’s large-scale FTQC will need approximately 2 to 3 megawatts of power, a fraction of what a hyperscale AI data center could consume. This demand could be lessened through integration with existing supercomputers. Meanwhile, a team from QuEra, specializing in ultracold atomic quantum computing, estimates their FTQC will require around 100 kilowatts, landing on the lower end of Ezratty’s spectrum.

Other companies like Xanadu, focusing on light-based quantum technologies, as well as Google Quantum AI, centered on superconducting qubits, have opted not to comment. PsiQuantum, another light-based qubit developer, was unavailable for a response. New Scientist has made multiple attempts for their insights.

Ezratty also pointed out that traditional electronics responsible for directing and monitoring qubit operations could result in additional costs, particularly for FTQC systems where qubits need further instructions to self-correct errors. This complexity necessitates understanding how these algorithms contribute to energy footprints. The operational runtime length of quantum computers adds another layer, as energy savings from fewer qubits might be negated if longer operation times are needed.

To effectively measure and report the energy consumption of machines, the industry must establish robust standards and benchmarks. Ezratty emphasizes that this is an integral element of QEI’s mission, with projects actively progressing in both the United States and the European Union.

As the field of quantum computing continues to mature, Ezratty anticipates that his research will pave the way for insights into FTQC energy consumption. This understanding could be vital for optimizing designs to minimize energy use. “Countless technological options could facilitate reduced energy consumption,” he asserts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring the World’s Most Advanced X-Ray Machine: Journey Before Its Power Boost

Posted on December 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Electron Beam in Niobium Cavity: A Core Element of SLAC’s LCLS-II X-ray Laser

Credit: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Electron beam traversing a niobium cavity, integral to SLAC's LCLS-II X-ray laser. — Electron Beam in Niobium Cavity: A Core Element of SLAC’s LCLS-II X-ray Laser

Credit: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The Klystron Gallery at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is a concrete corridor lined with robust metal columns that stretch well beyond my line of sight. Yet, beneath this unassuming structure lies a marvel of modern science.

Below the gallery, the Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) extends over an impressive 3.2 kilometers. This cutting-edge machine produces X-ray pulses that are the strongest in the world. I am here to witness it because a significant record has just been surpassed. However, an upgrade is set to take its most powerful component offline soon. When it reopens—anticipated as early as 2027—it will more than double its X-ray energy output.

“It’s like the difference between a star’s twinkle and the brightness of a light bulb,” says James Cryan at SLAC.

Dismissing LCLS-II as merely a sparkle would be profoundly misleading. In 2024, it achieved the most potent X-ray pulse ever recorded. Although it lasted a mere 440 billionths of a second, it released nearly 1 terawatt of energy—far surpassing the annual output of a typical nuclear power plant. Moreover, in 2025, LCLS-II set a record of generating 93,000 X-ray pulses per second, a remarkable feat for an X-ray laser.

According to Cryan, this milestone enables researchers to undertake groundbreaking studies of how particles behave within molecules after absorbing energy. It’s akin to transforming a black-and-white film into a vibrant, colorful cinematic experience. With this breakthrough and forthcoming enhancements, LCLS-II has the capacity to revolutionize our understanding of the subatomic behavior of light-sensitive systems, from photosynthetic organisms to advanced solar cell technologies.

LCLS-II operates by accelerating electrons toward near-light speeds—the ultimate velocity threshold in physics. The cylindrical device known as the klystron, which gives the klystron gallery its name, generates the microwaves necessary for this acceleration. Once the electrons attain sufficient speed, they navigate through arrays of thousands of strategically placed magnets, enabling their oscillation and producing an X-ray pulse. These pulses can be utilized for imaging the internal structure of various materials, similar to medical X-rays.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to tour one of several experimental halls. Here, the X-ray pulses collide with molecules, enabling a closer look at their interactions. These experimental areas resemble futuristic submarines—with heavy metal exteriors and large glass windows—engineered to exclude stray air molecules that could disrupt their experiments.

Just before my visit, Cryan and his team conducted an experiment to examine proton movements within molecules. Traditional imaging techniques struggle to provide detailed insight into proton dynamics, yet these specifics are vital for advancing solar cell technology, Cryan emphasizes.

What awaits these investigations post-upgrade when LCLS-II evolves into LCLS-II-HE? Cryan states that the enhanced capability to examine particle behavior within molecules will be significantly augmented. However, the path to upgrades is challenging.

Explore CERN: The Hub of Particle Physics in Europe

Get ready to explore CERN, Europe’s premier center for particle physics, nestled near the beautiful city of Geneva, Switzerland, famous for housing the Large Hadron Collider.

John Schmage from SLAC notes that as the energy of the electron beam increases, the risk of particles straying becomes a significant concern. He recounts witnessing a misbehaving beam damage equipment at another facility, highlighting the necessity for precision. SLAC’s Ding Yuantao emphasizes that all new components installed during the upgrade are designed to endure higher power outputs, but they must increase energy levels gradually to ensure operational integrity. “We’ll activate the beam and closely monitor its performance,” he states.

In 2026, the team plans to engage in a significant engineering initiative to align the components, followed by one to two years of meticulous setup for a staged increase in power output. If all progresses according to plan, the upgraded LCLS-II-HE will be available for global researchers by 2030. Ongoing communication between X-ray users like Cryan, and operators like Schmage and Ding, will be essential. “This tool will evolve, and we will continually enhance its capabilities,” Schmage notes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

What Factors Contributed to Solar Power Being the World’s Most Coveted Energy Source?

Posted on September 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Today’s solar panels will inevitably reach the end of their lives and will require recycling or disposal.”

Jacques Hugo/Getty Images

By the mid-2020s, solar energy had become a major player. It emerged as the most affordable form of power generation and was also one of the fastest-growing sources of energy. The lifespan of solar panels had extended significantly, lasting around 30 to 40 years. However, eventually, these panels would need to be recycled or disposed of. By 2050, predictions indicated that there could be as much as 160 million tonnes of solar module waste. While this amount was considerably less than that produced by fossil fuel sources, it still posed a challenge.

Researchers began exploring how to create self-healing and even self-organizing solar panels.

By the mid-2030s, advancements had led to the creation of live solar panels, also known as biological solar power generation (BPV), which were deployed globally. The aesthetically pleasing, natural look of this technology made it popular, leading to the mantra of “yes, in my backyard,” and rapid adoption of living sunlight technology.

One of the first benefits was easily observed in off-grid rural areas, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where BPVs provided energy for mobile phones and computers without the need for batteries. As the technology progressed, older buildings were revamped into BPVs resembling green walls and roofs, while new structures incorporated living solar panels right from the design phase, allowing more people to become less dependent on traditional grid energy. This also helped boost local biodiversity and enhance overall happiness.

BPV operates like a fuel cell, where electrons move from the cathode to the anode, generating electricity. In biological contexts, electrons are produced by photosynthetic organisms and subsequently transferred to the anode.

Back in 2011, scientists became intrigued by the phenomenon of electrical leakage from cyanobacteria in sunlight. They discovered that by placing cyanobacteria on electrodes, they could harvest current to power small electronic devices.

However, the electrical output was weak due to insufficient electron leakage from the bacteria. Scientists like Chris Howe from Cambridge University worked on genetically modifying cyanobacteria to enhance electron leakage, allowing them to be connected to electronic devices.

In 2022, Howe’s team found that they could power computers solely using photosynthesis. Soon after, scientists made significant strides in their ability to scale up current harvesting and develop devices powered by biological energy sources worldwide.

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Members of Homo Photosyntheticus pledged to limit their electricity consumption strictly to that derived from photosynthesis.
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One immediate benefit was a significant decrease in demand for small batteries that power many devices. By 2025, these batteries accounted for 3% of the global battery market, resulting in 10,000 tonnes of waste each year.

With the improvement in BPV technology, larger devices like mobile phones and refrigerators began operating on batteries charged by living solar cells. Electric vehicles could be charged using arrays of biological solar panels installed in garages and depots, leading to a reduced need for metals like lithium and manganese.

Remarkably, the devices continued to function in low light. At night, the cells metabolized compounds created during the day, producing a comparable amount of electrons to maintain power.

The rise of living solar technology had numerous implications. As buildings adopted a green aesthetic, urban planners started integrating more nature into streets and public areas. Even densely populated cities began to exhibit a vibrant green atmosphere, teeming with trees, plants, flowers, and wildlife.

The success of BPVs inspired a movement focused on integrating the organelles of plant cells responsible for photosynthesis. This enthusiastic group, identifying as members of Homo Photosyntheticus, drew inspiration from solar-powered sea slugs and incorporated chloroplasts sourced from plant leaves into their own biology.

Sea slugs have evolved methods to sustain and manage chloroplast functionality; however, they sometimes require additional chloroplasts. They possess a leaf-like structure that maximizes surface area, yet the energy obtained through photosynthesis only meets a small fraction of their energy requirements. For humans, without the cellular infrastructure to support chloroplast function or leaf-like shapes, this method could only yield negligible energy.

Nevertheless, for self-identified members of H. Photosyntheticus, the incorporation of chloroplasts held significant symbolic meaning. They engaged in what they referred to as “greening,” committing to utilize only electricity generated directly through photosynthesis—eschewing fossil fuels altogether! Additionally, they commonly tattooed chloroplasts on their skin as a visible testament to their dedication.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Solar Power is the Most Sustainable Energy Source for the Future

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Only 0.3% of the Earth’s land area needs solar panels to fulfill all energy requirements

VCG via Getty Images

Solar energy has been gaining traction for years, and it’s easy to see why. It represents one of the most economical ways to produce energy almost anywhere and stands as a vital measure against climate change.

However, there are skeptics. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright asserts that solar energy cannot meet global energy demands. Many experts highlight that this claim is fundamentally misguided. Over time, sunlight—along with wind energy—offers the only reliable power source capable of satisfying escalating energy demands without harming the planet.

On September 2nd, Wright posted on social media platform x, stating, “Even if we covered the entire planet with solar panels, it would only generate 20% of the world’s energy. One of the greatest mistakes politicians make is equating electricity with energy!”

First and foremost, electricity is quantified based on the energy it delivers, making it practical to consider electricity as equivalent to energy.

Climate scientist Gavin Schmidt from NASA’s Goddard Space Research Institute remarked on Bluesky that the total energy content utilized by all fuels globally in 2024 was approximately 186,000 terawatt hours. He emphasized that the Earth receives 6,000 times that amount in energy each year.

Moreover, Schmidt noted that since 60% of fossil fuel energy is typically wasted in the conversion process to usable electricity, the Earth receives 18,000 times more energy than is needed to satisfy current energy consumption levels.

While existing solar panels only capture around 20% of available solar energy and can’t be installed everywhere, a 2021 report by Carbon Tracker estimated that merely 0.3% of the world’s land area (limited to land) is required to address current energy needs through solar energy alone. This footprint is smaller than that of existing fossil fuel infrastructure. In essence, the report indicates that solar and wind can provide over 100 times the current global energy demand.

We are fortunate, as the current reliance on fossil fuels is already contributing to hazardous climate change with fossil fuels alone supplying 100 times more energy than the planet can sustainably handle. But what about nuclear fusion? If it becomes a feasible option, would it surpass solar energy?

The answer is negative. Eric Chaisson from Harvard University anticipates minimal growth in global energy demand; however, the waste heat generated could potentially elevate global temperatures by 3°C within three centuries. This refers to waste heat from everyday activities like boiling a kettle or using a computer, which consumes the energy produced.

Solar energy—along with wind, tides, and waves—functions fundamentally as a source harnessed from the sun, rendering waste heat irrelevant. The energy we utilize, whether it ends up as waste heat or not, determines its practical value. In contrast, other energy sources, like nuclear fission, do not currently address waste heat management.

“[Carl] Sagan preached to me, and I now relay that message to students. Any planet must ultimately utilize the energy it possesses,” Chaisson remarked in an interview with New Scientist in 2012.

Though three centuries is a long time, the implications of waste heat are already significant. Studies indicate that maximum temperatures in Europe’s summers have increased by 0.4°C. By 2100, average annual temperatures in certain industrialized regions may rise by nearly 1°C due to waste heat—effects not currently considered in climate models.

Ultimately, the only technology that can sustainably harness solar and wind energy to meet global energy demands for centuries, without triggering catastrophic warming, is these renewable sources. The projections couldn’t be more misguided.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Power of Laughter Therapy for Enhancing Emotional Well-Being

Posted on August 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Laughter yoga session in Kolkata, India

SOPA Images Limited/Alamy

Laughter therapy is no laughing matter. Structured activities designed to elicit joy, such as laughter yoga and hospital clowns, appear to significantly lower anxiety levels and enhance life satisfaction.

Laughing, a behavior observed in various animal species, is believed to boost social bonds and may assist infants in developing their self-identity. Research indicates that interventions involving clowns lead to shorter hospital stays for children.

Yelsynyn-Mauricio Porras-Jiménez from Jaen University in Spain aims to enhance people’s holistic well-being. “It’s not solely about physical health; mental and emotional aspects are crucial,” he notes. “I discovered laughter therapy while exploring ways to implement holistic care effectively.”

Porras-Jiménez and his team performed a meta-analysis of 33 studies from the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The participants included nursing students as well as individuals receiving terminal care, undergoing surgeries, in vitro fertilization, or those grappling with depression or burnout.

Each study divided participants into two groups. One group engaged in various laughter therapy activities, such as laughter yoga, clown visits, watching entertaining films, or joining guided laughter sessions. The second group served as a control, maintaining standard care or receiving no interventions.

Results demonstrated a consistent link between laughter therapy and decreased anxiety, alongside heightened life satisfaction. In one measurement of anxiety on a scale of 0-100, the control group’s average score was around 60, while the laughter therapy group scored 8-10 points lower. Regarding life satisfaction, the control group’s score averaged 50, with the laughter therapy group scoring 10-12 points higher.

However, participants were aware they were partaking in laughter therapy, which raises questions about potential placebo effects, according to Sophie Scott from University College London.

Nonetheless, laughter triggers physiological changes correlated with reduced anxiety, she adds. Research shows lowered cortisol levels, a stress hormone, and increased endorphins, neurotransmitters that foster feelings of happiness.

“It’s challenging to determine if the benefits arise from laughter itself or from the social environment that encourages comfortable laughter,” Scott remarks. “It seems to be a combination of both.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Harnessing the Power of Music to Transform Our Lives

Posted on July 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A new scientist. Science News and Long read from expert journalists covering science, technology, health, and environmental developments in various media.

Music transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a remarkably effective tool for regulating mental states. Society must acknowledge the therapeutic potential of music, extending its use beyond clinical settings and into everyday life.

While it’s widely recognized that music can evoke emotions—lift our spirits, soothe our nerves, or bring us to tears—recent research from my lab at the University of Bergen in Norway reveals that it can also transform our thought processes. A 2019 study demonstrated that participants who listened to heroic or melancholic music while letting their minds wander experienced significant cognitive effects. The uplifting pieces invigorated participants and inspired positive thoughts, whereas somber music instilled calmness or ambition. This isn’t just a curiosity; it has real implications for mental health.

Research shows our minds wander frequently, with a Harvard University study indicating that we spend nearly half our waking hours in fantasy, often without improving our mood. Why? During these episodes, the brain’s default mode network (DMN) tends to dominate, fostering imagination and memory but also leading us into negative thought spirals—like worries at 3 AM or regrets about missed trains.

Recent brain imaging research indicates that negative daydreaming engages brain pain networks and the DMN, especially in conjunction with sad music. Specific brain areas, including the posterior sulcus, appear to play a crucial role in this connection. Such distressing thoughts activate neural circuits that are also engaged during physical pain.

Fortunately, the DMN has a natural counterpart—a cognitive executive network that facilitates focus and goal-directed behavior. These two systems are inversely correlated; when one is active, the other becomes subdued. Engaging with music can shift us into this more adaptive state, especially when we participate actively—whether by tapping along, matching our breathing to rhythms, or humming. This redirecting of attention helps to break negative thought cycles, providing our minds with a cognitive “reset.”

This approach doesn’t just elevate mood. A 2023 study found that individuals who tapped along to music reported a marked reduction in physical pain in their fingertips compared to those who simply listened. The combination of musical immersion and motor synchronization proved clinically beneficial in alleviating pain.

These insights point to musical engagement as a delightful form of meditation. Evolution may have shaped our brains to seek out music for precisely this reason: to enhance resilience and build social bonds.

I explore these concepts further in my new book, Good Vibrations: Unleashing the Healing Power of Music, which also offers practical techniques—such as music-centered breathing exercises and mood-enhancing playlists—to help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and alleviate negative thought patterns.

If music possesses such profound effects, it deserves far more recognition than being relegated to mere lifestyle accessory status. It should be woven into education systems, public health initiatives, and our daily routines. Music therapy must become more accessible, and music education—oftentimes the first to be cut in school budgets—should be viewed as essential for brain health, emotional intelligence, and social wellness.

Music is always within reach. The next time your thoughts begin to spiral or stress begins to encroach, resist the urge to check the news on your phone. Instead, turn to your favorite songs. Your mind—and your community—will be grateful.

Stefan Koelsch is a professor of psychology at the University of Bergen, Norway

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Can Your Power Bank Ignite a Fire on a Plane? Understanding the Rules and Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Posted on July 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Virgin Australia is contemplating a revision of its rules regarding lithium batteries following a fire incident on a flight from Sydney, which was reportedly triggered by a power bank found in passenger carry-on luggage.

Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) reports that the average traveler carries at least four rechargeable lithium battery devices, which may include smartphones, laptops, and portable power banks.

If you’re curious about the regulations and the reasons lithium-ion batteries are viewed as potential flight hazards, here’s a brief summary.

Can I bring a power bank on a plane?

Yes, but the rules vary, so you should check the airline’s restrictions before your flight.

Generally, according to CASA, laptops and cameras may be included in checked luggage as long as they are completely powered off.

However, spare batteries and power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage due to risks of short-circuiting, overheating, and fires during flight.

Lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160WH are not allowed under any circumstances unless they are used as medical aids.

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Smart bags containing power banks or lithium-ion batteries are allowed, provided the battery can be removed and carried in the cabin before checking in.

Virgin Australia states that spare or loose batteries, including power banks, must solely be part of carry-on baggage and need to be kept in their original retail packaging; individual batteries should be placed in separate plastic bags, protective pouches, or have their terminals covered with tape.

Qantas advises that passengers with Apple AirPod cases and power banks containing spare or loose batteries should only store them in carry-on baggage.

The airline does not advise using or charging power banks on board for safety reasons.

Can I take a power bank on an overseas flight?

Numerous international airlines, including Thai Airways, Korean Airlines, Eva Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, and Singapore Airlines and its budget arm Scoot, have imposed bans regarding their use on board.

If you plan to fly with an international airline, it is essential to verify their specific rules prior to traveling.

Generally, travelers are expected to keep power banks in their carry-on luggage. However, whether or not you can use them in-flight depends on the particular airline.

Is the risk of lithium battery fires significant on airplanes?

Not necessarily. Professor Neeraj Sharma, a battery specialist at the University of New South Wales, states that lithium-ion batteries contain 20 different components, some of which are liquid, making them more volatile than solid elements like electrodes and casings.

Applying pressure to a lithium-ion battery can spark “thermal runaway” (an uncontrollable temperature increase); however, battery explosions are exceedingly rare.

Sharma notes that airlines still recommend carrying batteries in baggage to minimize the risk.

He also mentions that power banks and other lithium-ion battery devices, which are less regulated than mobile phones and laptops (like electric scooters and steam devices), could pose more risks and may be made from inferior quality batteries.

Professor Amanda Ellis, head of the Department of Chemistry and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Melbourne, agrees that lithium battery fires are not particularly likely to happen on flights.

She explains that the pressure within an airplane cabin is supported by “multiple layers of casings,” preventing batteries from reaching a critical failure. However, enclosed environments can make fires particularly hazardous, especially since it’s not possible to escape the situation while in flight.

“Fires release highly toxic gases, especially in limited spaces that are far from ideal,” she remarks.

Ellis adds that lithium-ion battery fires can be challenging to extinguish, as lithium can ignite and ignite surrounding materials—high-energy substances that can sustain burning for extended periods.

“Using water to douse a lithium fire is not advisable, which could be the first instinct of someone on a plane,” she notes.

What causes lithium-ion batteries to ignite?

Lithium-ion batteries comprise ions suspended within an electrolyte solution. During charging and discharging, these ions travel back and forth across the two electrodes.

Ellis states that a common cause of battery fires is overcharging, which can lead to overheating. If a battery becomes excessively charged, it can crack, causing the highly flammable electrolyte to ignite when it contacts air.

More sophisticated lithium-battery-powered devices, like smartphones, typically include a built-in “trickle system” that prevents overcharging by incrementally adding current to the battery.

However, Ellis explains that cheaper power banks often lack this safety feature.

“Avoid charging a power bank overnight,” she advises. “Only charge it for as long as necessary. Monitor the power bank until the indicator light switches from red to green.”

Overall, Ellis reassures that if lithium batteries are used correctly and under suitable conditions, they are generally safe, and passengers need not be overly concerned while flying.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Human-Level AI is Inevitable: Harnessing the Power to Influence the Journey | Garrison Nice

Posted on July 21, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration: Petra Péterffy/The Guardian

“Technological advancements occur because they can,” states OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. I mentioned how the 2019 New York Times rephrased Robert Oppenheimer, the creator of the atomic bomb.

Altman encapsulates the ethos of Silicon Valley. The march of technology is relentless.

Another prevailing technical belief is that the emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) will result in one of two potential futures: a technotopia or the end of humanity.

In numerous instances, the arrival of humans has led to decisive change. We were faster, stronger, and more adaptable. Extinctions have often been unintended consequences of our ambitions. Genuine AGI could be akin to creating new species that may outsmart or outnumber us.

Altman and leaders of prominent AI labs are perceived as facilitators of a potential extinction event. This is a genuine concern echoed by numerous AI researchers and notable figures.

Given this backdrop, one naturally wonders: should we pursue technologies that could jeopardize our existence?

A common retort is that AGI is inevitable; it’s simply too appealing not to create. After all, AGI is viewed as the pinnacle of technology, as described by Alan Turing’s contemporaries, the last invention humanity will ever need. Moreover, if you don’t, someone else will. Responsibility looms overhead.

A burgeoning ideology in Silicon Valley, Effective Accelerationism (e/acc), argues that AGI’s inevitability is rooted in the second law of thermodynamics, and it is driven by “technological capital.” The e/acc manifesto asserts: “You cannot halt this machine. Progress is a one-way street. Returning is not an option.”

For Altman, e/acc is imbued with a mystical quality. The trajectory of inventions is perceived as an immutable law of nature. Yet, that perspective overlooks the reality that technology emerges from intentional human actions influenced by myriad powerful forces.

Despite the allure of AGI, the notion of technology being inevitable deserves scrutiny.

Historically, advancements in technology have prompted resistance, with society often restraining its utilization.

Concerns regarding new technologies have led to regulations. Pioneering biologists effectively prohibited recombinant DNA experiments in the 1970s.

Humans have yet to be successfully replicated through cloning, even though the possibility has existed for over a decade; only one scientist attempting to gene-edit humans found himself imprisoned.

Nuclear energy provides steady, carbon-free power, yet fears of disaster have inhibited its progress extensively.

If Altman was more aware of the history of the Manhattan Project, he might understand that the creation of nuclear weapons was a series of unpredictable and unintended outcomes, sparked by misconceptions regarding nations’ technological advancements.

It is now hard to conceive a world devoid of nuclear arms. Yet, in lesser-known history, President Ronald Reagan nearly reached an agreement with Mikhail Gorbachev to dismantle all nuclear arms, which was thwarted by the Star Wars satellite defense system. Currently, nuclear arsenals run at less than 20% of their 1986 peak.

These choices weren’t made in isolation. Reagan, previously a staunch opponent of disarmament, was ultimately swayed by the global movements advocating for nuclear freeze during the late 1980s.

While there are significant economic incentives to continue utilizing fossil fuels, climate activism has transformed the discourse surrounding decarbonization.

In April 2019, the youth-led climate movement Extinction Rebellion brought London to a standstill, pushing for net-zero carbon emissions by 2025.

The UK declared a climate emergency and Labor adopted a 2030 target for decarbonizing electricity production.

Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal campaign, while not widely recognized, has been incredibly effective, shuttering over a third of U.S. coal plants within five years.

US carbon emissions are currently lower than the levels of 1913.

In many respects, the regulation of AGIs could present an easier challenge than decarbonization, given that 82% of global energy production still relies on fossil fuels. Society does not depend on hypothetical AGIs to avert disaster.

Moreover, guiding the future of technological development does not necessitate halting current systems or creating specialized AIs to address pressing challenges in medicine and climate.

It’s evident why many capitalists are drawn to AI; they envision a future where they can eliminate manual labor (and reduce costs).

However, governments are not merely focused on maximizing profits. While economic growth is crucial, they also prioritize employment, social stability, market concentration, and occasionally democracy.

The overall impact of AGI on these areas remains uncertain. The government is not equipped for a scenario in which widespread technical unemployment occurs.

Historically, capitalists have often gotten what they desire, particularly in recent decades. However, their relentless chase for profit can hinder regulatory attempts to slow AI’s progression.

In a San Francisco bar in February, veteran OpenAI safety team members stated that E/ACC proponents should fear the likes of AOC and Senator Josh Hawley more than “extreme” AI safety advocates, as they possess the power to truly disrupt.

While humanity may seem stuck in its ways, it’s uncertain whether AGI will ultimately be created; however, proponents often assert that its arrival is imminent, and that resistance is futile.

Yet, whether AGI emerges in 5, 20, or 100 years is crucially significant. The timeline is more within our control than advocates are likely to admit. Deep down, many of them likely recognize this, rendering attempts to persuade others as futile. Furthermore, if they believe AGI is inevitable, why seek to convince anyone?

We already possessed the computational power to train GPT-2 a decade before OpenAI actually undertook it, as uncertainty loomed about its value.

Yet now, top AI labs fail to implement requisite precautions, even those that their safety teams advocate for. A recent OpenAI employee resigned over a loss of faith in responsible actions towards AGI due to competitive pressures.

The “safety tax” is a cost that labs are unwilling to incur if they wish to stay competitive, pushing for faster product releases at the expense of safety.

In contrast, governments do not face the same financial burdens.

Recently, certain tech entrepreneurs claimed that regulating AI development is impossible “unless you control every line of code.” While this might hold true for an AGI created on a personal laptop, cutting-edge AI requires extensive arrays of supercomputers with chips produced by an extraordinarily exclusive industry.

Thus, many AI safety advocates have proposed that computational governance could be a viable solution. Governments could collaborate with cloud computing providers to prevent unregulated training of next-gen systems. Instead of instituting draconian oversight, thresholds could be established to target only major players capable of significant expenditures; training models like GPT-4 reportedly cost over $100 million per run.

Governments must consider the implications of global competition and the risk of unilateral disarmament. However, international treaties can facilitate the equitable sharing of benefits derived from advanced AI systems while ensuring that comprehensive scaling does not proceed blindly.

Despite the competitive climate, collaboration among nations has occurred in surprising ways.

The Montreal Protocol successfully mitigated ozone layer depletion by banning chlorofluorocarbons. Globally, there is consensus on a morally compelling ban against weapons designed for military purposes, including biological and chemical weapons, alongside blinding laser weapons and environmental modification.

In the 1960s and 1970s, many analysts feared that all states capable of developing nuclear arms would do so. However, around three dozen nuclear programs have since been abandoned globally, not merely through coercion but via intentional actions bolstered by the norms established in the 1968 Non-Proliferation Treaty.

When polled on whether Americans favor superhuman AI, a significant majority indicated “no.” Opposition to AI has grown as technology becomes more prevalent. Advocates declaring AGI’s inevitability often dismiss public sentiment, perceiving the populace as unaware of their own best interests, which contributes to the appeal of inevitability as it bypasses meaningful debate.

The potential risks of AGI are severe, with implications that could jeopardize civilization itself. This necessitates a collective effort to impose effective regulations.

Ultimately, technology progresses because people choose to make it happen. The option to decide remains.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Google Inc. Secures $3 Billion US Hydroelectric Contract to Power Energy-Intensive Data Centers

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Google has committed to securing up to 3GW of hydropower in what is being termed the largest clean power agreement by a corporation, as the tech giant seeks to expand its energy-intensive data centers, the company announced on Tuesday.

The agreement with Brookfield Asset Management includes a 20-year power purchase deal worth $3 billion for electricity generated from two hydroelectric plants located in Pennsylvania.

Additionally, the tech giant will invest $25 billion into data centers across Pennsylvania and neighboring states over the next two years, according to Semafor’s report on Tuesday.

The technology sector is increasingly seeking vast amounts of clean energy to support the power demands of data centers essential for artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Google’s parent company Alphabet, spoke about the initiative at the AI Summit in Pittsburgh, where Donald Trump announced a $70 billion investment in AI and energy.

Amanda Peterson Corio, head of Datacenter Energy at Google, commented on the collaboration with Brookfield, stating, “This partnership is a crucial step towards ensuring a clean energy supply in the PJM region where we operate.”

Almost a year ago, Google initiated several unique power purchase agreements involving carbon-free geothermal energy and advanced nuclear options. The company is also collaborating with PJM Interconnect, the largest power grid operator in the U.S., to expedite the integration of new power sources using AI technology.

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Google has entered into an initial framework agreement with Brookfield, the owner of Brookfield Renewable Partners, stating its intent to develop and operate a renewable energy facility. The two hydroelectric plants in Pennsylvania will undergo upgrades and refurbishment as part of this agreement. Furthermore, Google intends to expand its commitment beyond these facilities to other regions within the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Cyber Attacks Could Target Home Solar Panels to Disrupt Power Grids

Posted on July 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A third of Australian homes feature rooftop solar panels

ZSTOCKPHOTOS/ISTOCKPHOTO/GETTY IMAGES

Power grids across the globe face an increasing risk of cyberattacks, primarily due to the vulnerabilities inherent in home solar equipment.

With the rise of distributed energy resources like rooftop solar, grids are leaning more heavily on smart inverters that control connections to local power networks.

“While these technologies provide numerous advantages, they also bring forth new operational and cybersecurity hurdles,” says Sid Chau, a researcher at CSIRO, the Australian government’s research institute.

Smart inverters convert the direct current generated by solar panels into the alternating current required by electrical devices. They also optimize energy storage and enable remote monitoring via the Internet.

This web connectivity means that they not only jeopardize home solar installations but can also threaten larger power generation networks, warn Chau and his team.

The team has pinpointed various methods through which smart inverters can be compromised, including exploiting hardware and software vulnerabilities. Hackers can deceive users into granting excessive permissions on connected inverter applications or collaborate with manufacturers to embed malicious code directly into hardware.

Chau and his team modeled the threats stemming solely from Australian inverters, where roughly one-third of residences possess rooftop solar systems. This scenario mirrors certain power grids worldwide where civilian solar installations are becoming increasingly prevalent.

Although such attacks necessitate careful planning and coordination, researchers have discovered that a relatively small number of compromised solar smart inverters can create significant disruptions when vulnerabilities align.

Once a smart inverter is infiltrated, hackers can execute synchronized attacks targeting the broader power grid.

Of particular concern are assaults aimed at the frequency control of the power grid. In regions like Australia and Europe, the grid frequency must maintain around 50 HERTZ. Though safeguards exist, deviations can lead to cascading failures within the power system.

The risk is heightened further by the long lifespan of many inverters, often exceeding 15 years, which allows cybersecurity measures to quickly become outdated.

Chau emphasizes the need for improved monitoring of private inverters so that authorities can promptly address any suspicious activities that arise.

He also advocates for enhanced long-term support for inverter owners and regular compliance checks to guarantee adherence to cybersecurity and maintenance standards.

Zubair Baig from Deakin University in Melbourne stresses the importance of security validation for all imported inverters.

“Since these devices are often not produced domestically, there exists a risk that they might be configured with malware during manufacturing, leading to potential current fluctuations, permanent equipment damage, and even grid failure,” states Baig.

Ernest Foo from Griffith University in Brisbane highlights that Australia’s critical infrastructure is particularly susceptible to cyber threats due to its outdated design and components.

“The increasing integration of distributed solar energy heightens the likelihood of cyberattacks, especially with the evolving use of machine learning and AI,” he adds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Captivating First Image Reveals the Power of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory

Posted on June 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Trifid (top right) and Lagoon (center) nebula view from Vera C. Rubin Observatory

NSF-DOEVERA C. Rubin Observatory

The stunning pink and blue regions of this stellar nursery, along with dense clusters of surrounding galaxies, mark the initial insights from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddz8piolnqc

These images were crafted from about 10 hours of observations atop Chile’s Celopachen Mountain, serving as tests to illustrate the types of captures Rubin can produce. The telescope’s extensive mission to monitor the night sky, recognized as a legacy study of space and time, is set to commence later this year.

The initial image (above) showcases the Trifid Nebula, a striking pink and blue formation located in the upper right corner, where numerous young stars emerge from a star-forming region. At the image’s center lies the Lagoon Nebula, a large expanse of interstellar gas and dust. To create this visual, astronomers amalgamated 678 individual photographs taken by Rubin over a span of seven hours.

A close-up of the full Virgo cluster as seen from Vera C. Rubin Observatory

NSF-DOEVERA C. Rubin Observatory

The subsequent image focuses on the Virgo cluster, a composition of thousands of galaxies recognized by astronomers for ages. While the brightest members are visible through a basic telescope, Rubin’s detailed capture presents the entire cluster and its surrounding galaxies. For a more comprehensive view, check out the full zoom-out image showcased in the video below, which reveals around 10 million galaxies.

These represent only 0.5% of the 20 billion galaxies that Rubin will observe throughout its lifespan, assisting in unraveling the enigmas of dark matter and exploring the potential for a mysterious ninth planet within our solar system.

Observatory photos will be unveiled during the live stream today at 4 PM (11 AM EDT).

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Source: www.newscientist.com

These Unusual “Bears” Have the Power to Halt Aging—Here’s What We’re Discovering

Posted on June 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Commonly referred to by fans as “water bears” or “moss pigs,” the tardigrade is arguably the cutest microscopic creature on Earth.

These tiny beings have even been sent to the International Space Station. Scientists have successfully launched them into the vacuum of space.

Remarkably, they survived for days without air, water, or any protection from intense solar radiation, showcasing their resilience. Researchers believe these little animals possess extraordinary survival capabilities.

In extreme situations, tardigrades enter a state known as cryptobiosis, essentially drying out and halting their metabolism.

Once conditions improve and water is reintroduced, they can rehydrate and start functioning again as if nothing ever happened.

Recent research has revealed new insights into these remarkable organisms. For instance, scientists have identified a protein called “DSUP” that shields their DNA from radiation, acting like molecular armor.

Researchers from the University of Stuttgart have provided evidence supporting the “sleeping beauty” hypothesis.

This theory posits that in their dormant state, tardigrades may not only pause their metabolism but also their biological clocks.

They survived for days without air, water, or protection from intense solar radiation. – Image credits: Scientific Photo Library via Sebastian Kauritzki/Getty Images

Interestingly, water bears that undergo freezing thrive for twice as long while awake compared to a control group that never sleeps.

In their natural habitats, tardigrades might only be active for a few months, yet they can enter a state of suspended animation and survive for decades.

A 2024 study focused on the recently discovered tardigrade, Hypsibius henanensis, which provided further insights.

The research revealed a gene responsible for producing betalain, which counteracts the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.

Additionally, they uncovered proteins that enhance DNA repair mechanisms. The next step is to determine whether these proteins offer protection across any of the 1,300 known tardigrade species.

This article answers the question posed by Madison Halladay: “Why are tardigrades so indestructible?”

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

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Trump’s EPA Aims to Eliminate Carbon Emission Regulations for Power Plants

Posted on June 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed on Wednesday its intention to lift current limitations on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.

EPA administrator Lee Zeldin stated at a press conference that the carbon pollution standards established during the Biden administration “stifle” economic growth in the name of environmental protection. Zeldin, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in January, emphasized that this announcement marks significant progress in US energy management and reassured that the agency would not allow power plants to generate more electricity than they currently do. Presently, the electricity sector represents a quarter of total US emissions. Latest EPA Emissions Data.

Zeldin also indicated that the EPA plans to roll back regulations related to mercury emissions from power plants set by the Biden administration.

Environmental advocates argue that the EPA’s proposal intensifies the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to reshape climate initiatives across various federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Energy, and the National Weather Service. In 2024, the Biden administration confirmed its commitment to address the climate crisis with the most stringent carbon pollution standards for power plants to date, which now face an uncertain future.

Gina McCarthy, who served as EPA administrator under President Joe Biden, described Zeldin’s announcement as a “political maneuver” in a statement on Wednesday that dismissed a “decade of scientific research and policy evaluation.”

“By allowing increased pollution, his legacy will be defined by those who cater to the fossil fuel industry at the cost of public health,” McCarthy stated.

On January 25th, Jeffrey Energy Center’s coal-fired power plant near Emmett, Kansas.
Charlie Riedel / AP file

“Science and daily observations tell us that removing pollution standards on the largest industrial gas polluters in the United States is a mistake,” stated Jill Tauber, vice president of climate and energy litigation at Earthjustice, a nonprofit currently involved in litigation against the Trump administration over various environmental rollbacks.

US power plants are significant sources of global carbon emissions. A report from the Institute of Policy Integrity at New York University indicates that if the US electricity sector were treated as a separate nation, it would rank as the sixth largest emitter worldwide.

During the first Trump administration, the EPA loosened several Obama-era greenhouse gas regulations for power plants, but this latest announcement marks a shift towards completely eliminating such standards. Zeldin is following through on his commitment made in March to challenge the “religion of climate change” by revisiting or rescinding 31 regulations related to tailpipe emissions, coal ash, and wastewater management from oil and gas.

The proposed regulations, which are now open for public commentary, are facing scrutiny from legal advocates and environmental organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council. They contend that the EPA has a legal obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Legal precedent mandates that greenhouse gases be controlled by the EPA under the Clean Air Act.

“We are closely monitoring whether the EPA will remove these crucial standards based on legal reasoning that is likely to be unviable,” remarked Meredith Hawkins, Federal Climate Law Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The NRDC is prepared to take legal action to ensure our right to breathe clean air is upheld.”

Reducing historic limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants could significantly influence global climate change, as well as have adverse effects on human health and the economy.

Harvey Writer, a lawyer and law professor at George Washington University, expressed hope that if the EPA pursues its planned deregulation, energy companies and utilities committed to renewable energy investments will challenge the Trump administration in court.

“The primary consequence of the proposed regulations is uncertainty and instability,” he stated. “It leaves stakeholders unsure about the next steps ahead. This complicates investment choices and affects job-related decisions, generating widespread market uncertainty.”

Greenhouse gas emissions from power plants extend beyond climate concerns. The combustion of fossil fuels emits carbon dioxide and various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and particulate matter. These pollutants are linked to higher instances of respiratory ailments and cardiovascular disease. Regulating carbon emissions from power plants can lead to a broader reduction in air pollution for communities near these facilities, according to Laura Kate Bender, vice president of national advocacy and public policy at the American Lung Association.

“This is a dual-edged sword. On the one hand, fossil fuel-fired power plants exacerbate climate change while simultaneously causing health issues,” Bender noted. “Climate change is a public health crisis, and mitigating carbon emissions in the electricity sector is crucial to addressing this emergency.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

EPA to Relax Mercury Restrictions on Power Plants

Posted on June 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Environmental Protection Agency is poised to roll back Biden-era regulations aimed at limiting pollutants, including mercury emissions, a neurotoxin harmful to brain development, as per internal agency documents.

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin is set to unveil these proposed changes shortly, as informed by two individuals familiar with the agency’s intentions. He will also introduce another proposal to lift greenhouse gas restrictions on power plants, according to sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information.

These alterations signify a rejection of the Biden administration’s initiatives to combat climate change and address the significant air pollution plaguing communities near power plants and industrial sites. Legal challenges are anticipated concerning these rules later this year.

This move aligns with a broader plan by the Trump administration to extend fossil fuel usage, which has exacerbated global warming. President Trump has recently taken multiple steps to bolster the reliance on polluting coal.

An EPA representative did not confirm specifics about the new regulations or the timeline for their release. However, Zeldin stated that he “opposes the shutdown of clean, affordable, and reliable energy for American families.”

He added, “The EPA should adopt sensible regulations to foster a great American recovery, instead of continuing the path of devastation and impoverishment of the previous administration.”

Zeldin’s proposal regarding mercury and other hazardous substances, as reported by the New York Times, speculates that in 2024, the Biden administration would “unjustly target” coal-fired power plants if contamination levels were restricted.

The documents indicate that new regulations will relax emission limits for harmful substances like lead, nickel, and arsenic by 67%. For certain coal plants, the proposed rule would decrease the mercury limit by 70%, while also dispensing with the requirement for all plants to continually monitor chimney emissions.

These amendments counter the most stringent rules set by the Biden administration, which aimed to reduce dangerous toxins and encourage a shift from coal-fired plants to renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Burning coal emits mercury, which can contaminate land, oceans, and waterways. According to the EPA, coal-fired power plants are responsible for 44% of all mercury emissions in the United States.

In the atmosphere, mercury emissions transform into a toxic form known as methyl mercury, which accumulates in fish and other food sources. This exposure can lead to significant neurological harm in developing fetuses and children, and is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in adults.

“Children’s brains are growing rapidly, and mercury exposure can severely impact their development,” remarked Matthew Davis, a former EPA official. The initial regulations aimed at reducing mercury emissions from coal plants were established during the Obama administration.

The federal government first enacted strict controls on mercury emissions from power plants in 2011 under President Barack Obama. Following this, regulations were loosened during the initial Trump administration, but were tightened again under Biden. In October, the Supreme Court dismissed requests from 23 Republican states and some coal companies, preventing the reversal of the policy.

In April, the Trump administration granted exemptions for numerous coal-fired power plants from mercury and other air pollutant restrictions. Davis, currently the vice president for federal policy at the Conservation Voters Federation, referred to these as “get-out-of-jail-free cards” for polluters.

“This administration aims to demolish protections for our health and demonstrates indifference toward the well-being of future generations who might suffer from the harmful effects of this toxic substance,” he said.

Anticipated regulations aimed at weakening mercury standards are expected to accompany plans to eliminate all restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.

As per the latest data available on the EPA website, the electricity sector is the second largest contributor to greenhouse gases, following transportation. Power plants are responsible for approximately 30% of the pollution driving climate change globally.

However, according to a draft rule examined by The New York Times, Zeldin plans to contend that emissions from U.S. power plants have not contributed “significantly” to climate change.

He claims that emissions from U.S. fossil fuel-burning power plants accounted for only 3% of global greenhouse gases in 2022, down from 5.5% in 2005.

Analysts, however, argue that the Trump administration is making misleading comparisons. U.S. power plants were responsible for about 25% of greenhouse gas emissions produced in the country in 2022, with approximately 1.5 billion tons in emissions projected for 2023, exceeding total emissions from most countries.

Laura Kate Bender, assistant vice president of the American Lung Association, described this outdated rationale as a “setback” in combating climate change and air pollution.

“Together, these rules could lead to increased pollution that could have been avoided for communities surrounding power plants, exposing them to more harmful emissions that could have been mitigated,” she stated.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Elon Musk’s Feud with Trump Reveals the Risks of Concentrating Power in One Individual

Posted on June 7, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

After a year of mutual admiration and affection, Elon Musk and Donald Trump dramatically severed their political ties this week. This notable split featured the world’s wealthiest individual accusing the President of the United States of having connections with notorious sex offenders. Trump remarked that Musk had “lost his heart.”

The fallout from their disagreement poses real threats, with both Musk and Trump publicly shaming each other on their respective social platforms. Trump hinted that all of Musk’s government contracts and subsidies could be scrapped – labeling it “The Best Way to Save Money,” a move that could have disastrous implications not just for tech billionaires, but also for federal agencies relying on them. In response, Musk announced that NASA would start withdrawing the SpaceX Dragon Spacecraft from transport missions, though he later backtracked on this decision.

While their feud plays out like a sensational reality show, the confrontation between Trump and Musk highlights the dangers of entrusting vital public services to private companies led by unpredictable billionaires. It showcases how something once seen as a proud national endeavor, like space travel, can become jeopardized by the emotional whims of a single individual.

The previously cordial relationship sparked months of concerns about potential corruption and calls for investigations into how Tesla’s CEO could leverage his government ties for personal gain. This division illustrates the hazards of Musk’s deep entanglements with the government, where his services could become collateral damage in personal conflicts. Millions of dollars hang in the balance as their rivalry unfolds.

The chaotic manner in which this dispute is transpiring reminds us of the unpredictability of their actions. Musk’s SpaceX spacecraft and its commitments, if disrupted, could prevent the United States from promptly reaching the International Space Station.

“In response to the President’s statement about canceling my government contract, @Spacex will soon begin to abolish the Dragon Spacecraft,” Musk tweeted unexpectedly on Thursday.

“Good advice. Ok, we won’t abolish the Dragon,” Musk replied the next day, responding to an anonymous user with approximately 5,000 followers who suggested “we’ll calm down for a few days and take a step back.”

Had the Musk-Trump feud disrupted governmental operations or used them as political leverage, it wouldn’t have been unforeseen. Since Musk declined in 2023 to allow Ukraine to utilize Starlink in Crimea, the government has faced the harsher reality of relying on Musk’s global infrastructure, a precarious position in case of an unexpected attack on Russian forces. Musk’s assertion that he could disable Starlink almost led to a diplomatic incident earlier this year. Meanwhile, European authorities have recently rushed to seek alternatives to Starlink amid concerns over Musk’s erratic behavior.

Musk has positioned himself as an unpredictable global power broker, yet the U.S. continues to grant him contracts, further entrenching his corporate influence. Specifically, space operations have become synonymous with Musk.

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Since winning its first NASA contract in 2006, SpaceX has been awarded approximately $15 billion in government contracts, tasked with transporting astronauts and cargo into orbit. NASA has also contracted SpaceX for a mission to explore one of Saturn’s moons with a planned crewed endeavor. Last year, SpaceX was called upon to rescue two astronauts stranded on the ISS.

The government’s dependence on Musk extends beyond NASA. The Department of Defense maintains extensive contracts with Musk for launching intelligence satellites through SpaceX. The company has also emerged as the front runner in the Trump administration’s initiative to establish a “Golden Dome” missile defense shield, a priority for U.S. defense. Musk’s Starlink communications system has become integral to government operations, reaching the White House this year.

Musk remains a powerful figure in the market and among investors, as illustrated by the nearly 14% drop in Tesla’s share price during his fallout with Trump. Musk has indicated readiness to incur losses for his principles, and his immense wealth provides a buffer against major downturns in his business. The decline in Tesla’s shares on Thursday erased about $34 billion from his net worth in a single day, yet he remains the world’s richest person, with a margin exceeding $90 billion.

The significant reliance on Musk and the privatization of government functions have long drawn scrutiny from ethical watchdogs and industry specialists, but the current climate seems particularly precarious now that Musk has hinted at holding certain services hostage. This situation also highlights the consequences of the privatization initiatives that Musk supported during his tenure in the Trump administration. While Musk has firmly criticized bureaucracy, courts, and regulators as barriers to progress, they also serve as safeguards against the type of personal power and instability displayed by both him and Trump amid their escalating conflict.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Daylight Boosts Immune System’s Infection-Fighting Power: Study Findings

Posted on May 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In their recent study, scientist Christopher Hall and his team at the University of Auckland concentrated on neutrophils, a specific type of white blood cell significant for antibacterial defense.

yi du et al. We identified a photoresponsive endometrial timer that regulates time variations in antibacterial activity. Image credit: Summerstock.

The researchers employed zebrafish as a model organism due to its similar genetic composition to humans, and its capability of being raised with a transparent body, facilitating real-time observation of biological processes.

“Previous research has noted heightened immune responses in the morning during the initial stages of active fish,” Dr. Hall explained.

“I believe this reflects an evolutionary adaptation where the host is more vigilant during daylight, thus more prone to encounter bacterial infections.”

Nevertheless, the team aimed to determine how immune responses align with sunlight exposure.

The findings revealed that neutrophils have a circadian clock that activates during the day, boosting their bacterial-killing efficacy.

Most cells in our body maintain a circadian clock to synchronize with external time, thus regulating bodily functions.

Light plays a crucial role in resetting these circadian clocks.

“Given that neutrophils are the first immune cells to respond to inflammatory sites, our results carry significant implications for therapeutic advancements in many inflammatory diseases,” Dr. Hall remarked.

“This discovery opens avenues for developing drugs aimed at neutrophil circadian clocks to enhance our capability to fight infectious diseases.”

Study will be featured in the journal Scientific Immunology.

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Lucia Yi du et al. 2025. Light-regulated circadian timers optimize the bactericidal function of neutrophils and enhance daytime immunity. Scientific Immunology 10 (107); doi: 10.1126/Sciimmunol.Adn3080

Source: www.sci.news

Solar Storms Disrupt Communication and Power Systems

Posted on May 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The sun has unleashed its power with two significant flares occurring early Wednesday, just a day after NASA’s Observatory captured a stunning image of another solar flare.

These consecutive eruptions are among the strongest recorded, reportedly causing shortwave radio blackouts across at least five continents. This week’s explosive activity may signal an increase in solar activity.

The Sun Storm reached its peak around 4:25 AM ET on Wednesday, when a massive X-class flare ejected plasma streams and charged particles into space.

“Flares of this magnitude are uncommon,” stated an official from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center. I included this information in the event summary.

Solar flares are categorized into five classes based on their intensity. The smallest flares are A-class storms, followed by B-class, C-class, M-class, and the most potent X-class. Each letter represents a tenfold increase in energy compared to the previous class, as explained by NASA.

In addition to the letter classification, scientists use a scale from 1 to 9 to describe the intensity of solar storms.

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of a solar flare on May 13, 2025.
NASA/SDO

During the solar tempest on Wednesday, the Space Weather Prediction Center recorded an X2.7 flare before 4:30 AM and an M5.3 flare just hours earlier.

Another X1.2 flare erupted the previous day around 11:38 AM ET, according to NASA. The Solar Dynamics Observatory, launched in 2010, captured a breathtaking image of this fiery event, showcasing the X-Class flares’ dramatic tendrils.

Intense solar storms pose dangers to astronauts in space and can disrupt GPS systems and satellites. If these storms are directed towards Earth, they send a surge of charged particles that can interfere with radio communications and even the power grid.

Since Tuesday, shortwave radio blackouts have been reported in parts of North America, South America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. According to Spaceweather.com, a website managed by astronomer Tony Phillips, the daily activities of the Sun are closely monitored.

Sean Dahl, a forecaster at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, noted that the X2.7 flare impacted the Middle East, resulting in disruptions of high-frequency radio signals in the area for about 10 minutes during the storm’s peak.

Aside from the potential for “[high-frequency] Communication Disruptions Due to shortwave fading issues, we are not aware of any other significant effects,” Dahl stated.

However, solar storms can also have more benign consequences for Earth, such as enhanced displays of the Aurora. When charged particles collide with the Earth’s magnetic field and interact with atoms in the upper atmosphere, they can create spectacular auroras at lower latitudes than usual.

Scientists indicated last year that we have entered a busy phase of the sun’s natural 11-year cycle. This period of heightened activity, known as the solar maximum, is expected to continue until this year, suggesting more solar storms may occur in the coming months.

Dahl mentioned that this Wednesday’s flare was the strongest so far, but not the largest in the current solar activity cycle. That title belongs to the Monster Flare – an X9.0 Eruption that occurred on October 3, 2024.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Innovative Methods for Extracting Uranium from Water Could Boost Nuclear Power in China

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tianwan Nuclear Power Station on the Yellow Sea coast of China

Xinhua Newsletter/Alamie

SEI 250610463 — Tianwan Nuclear Power Station on the Yellow Sea coast of China

Xinhua Newsletter/Alamie

Researchers in China have created a cost-effective and energy-efficient method for extracting uranium from seawater. As the global leader in nuclear power plant construction, China’s advances will bolster its uranium supply.

The oceans are estimated to contain around 4.5 billion tonnes of uranium, significantly more than is available through traditional mining methods. However, these resources are challenging to extract. Previous methods have involved immersing materials in artificial sponges or polymers inspired by natural structures, or utilizing a more costly electrochemical approach to capture uranium atoms via an electric field.

A team led by Shuangyin Wang from Hunan University has developed an enhanced electrochemical technology that is not only cheaper but also requires less energy than existing methods. Unlike conventional systems that draw only uranium atoms towards a positive electrode, this new device utilizes two copper electrodes.

This innovative method managed to extract 100% of uranium from a brine solution within 40 minutes, whereas physical adsorption techniques typically yield less than 10% of the available uranium.

When tested with small amounts of natural seawater, the system processed about 1 liter at a time, achieving 100% extraction from East China Sea water and 85% from South China Sea water. In the latter scenario, larger electrodes allowed for complete extraction.

The energy cost of this method is over 1000 times lower than that of traditional electrochemical procedures, with extraction costing approximately $83 per kilogram of uranium—four times cheaper than earlier methods and significantly less than the $360 per kilogram average.

By scaling up production and device size, researchers believe this technique could lead to the “industrialization of uranium extraction from seawater” in the future. During a 58-hour test in 100 liters of seawater, the largest experimental setup managed to extract over 90% of the available uranium.

A notable earlier success in uranium extraction from seawater occurred during the 1990s, when the Japanese Atomic Energy Agency used physical adsorption methods to recover kilograms of uranium, setting a significant benchmark for subsequent research in China.

In 2019, China’s state-run nuclear power company partnered with research institutes to form the Innovation Alliance for Seawater Uranium Extraction Technology. The goal is to establish a demonstration plant by 2035 and achieve continuous industrial production by 2050. South China Morning Post.

Half of the reactor projects currently in development are located in China. The country is positioned to significantly increase its nuclear capacity by 2030, potentially surpassing both the US and the EU. International Energy Agency.

Nonetheless, China still imports the majority of the uranium it requires, making any economical extraction from seawater highly valuable.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

18 States Seek to Block Trump’s Wind Power Initiative

Posted on May 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Eighteen states filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Monday regarding the suspension of permits for wind energy projects, arguing that these actions threaten the growth of vital industries.

“This administration is undermining one of the fastest-growing sources of clean, reliable, and affordable energy in our country,” stated New York Attorney General Letitia James, one of the plaintiffs. She emphasized that the suspension endangers “thousands of jobs and billions in investments” and “hinders our shift away from fossil fuels that harm our health and the environment.”

The initial suspension of federal permits for wind energy was detailed in an executive order on January 20th, which called for halting all wind farm permits pending federal evaluation.

Litigation. By complying with this order, federal agencies indicate that significant investments are already at risk. The directive also instructed the U.S. Attorney General and the Secretary of the Interior to “end or modify” existing leases for wind farms, further exacerbating uncertainty for the companies involved.

The wind sector contributes approximately 10% of the nation’s electricity and is actively pursuing various projects, particularly in the Great Plains and along the Atlantic coastline.

Recently, the Trump administration halted a major wind farm project under construction off Long Island, known as the Empire Wind Project, which aims to provide power for half a million homes. Despite having secured necessary approvals, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgham claimed that the Biden administration’s review during the approval process was rushed and inadequate.

James noted that Trump has also declared an energy emergency, a characterization that energy experts have dismissed as an overstatement. However, she asserted that the permit suspension undermines the industry’s potential to deliver new energy sources.

Additionally, New York has enacted new legislation mandating significantly increased electricity generation from renewable sources. Achieving these targets becomes increasingly challenging without wind energy.

The lawsuit names multiple federal officials and agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Interior. The EPA has yet to respond to inquiries.

White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers accused the Democratic attorney general of using “legal mechanisms” to obstruct the president’s energy policies, asserting that “Americans in blue states shouldn’t bear the cost of the Democratic Party’s extreme climate agenda.”

In a statement, the Interior Department remarked, “We are committed to managing public lands and waters for the benefit of all Americans while ensuring fiscal responsibility to the public.”

The lawsuit, lodged in federal court in Massachusetts, seeks judicial intervention to prevent federal agencies from halting wind energy development and to declare the executive order unconstitutional.

“The Trump administration’s directives to stop offshore wind energy development are illegal,” declared California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

His office stated that federal policies “derail the clean energy transition and impose costs on Americans.” Alongside onshore wind farms, New York has five federal offshore wind leases, which are more complex and costly to manage.

Timothy Fox, managing director at ClearView Energy Partners in Washington, expressed hope that the lawsuit could effectively challenge the executive order. The “best case scenario” for the offshore wind sector would be for existing and under-construction facilities to proceed without interference from the Trump administration.

Source: www.nytimes.com

How US Loopholes Boosted China’s Export Power

Posted on May 2, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nearly a decade ago, Congress increased the import threshold from $200 to $800, facilitating access to the American consumer market.

In response, Chinese companies rapidly entered this sphere. Initially on platforms like eBay and Amazon, and later on apps like Shein and Temu, exporters leveraged China’s extensive manufacturing capabilities to funnel products directly into the US market.

This change in policy in 2016 significantly transformed the economic relationship between the two nations.

For decades, the US has been receiving goods from Chinese factories, benefiting from their manufacturing efficiency. The newly expanded, tariff-free loophole has made American consumers increasingly addicted to purchasing inexpensive exercise clothes and home gadgets online. In turn, millions of Chinese workers have found employment in factories catering to the e-commerce market. The influence extends to major players like Amazon and Walmart, as well as platforms such as Shane, Temu, and TikTok.

This surge in transactions has been remarkable. Last year, approximately 4 million packages arrived daily in the United States without customs inspections or fees.

However, changes were implemented on Friday, affecting trade between the two largest economies. Most packages from mainland China and Hong Kong are now subject to customs duties, even if valued under $800.

People in both nations are already noticing the shift. American consumers are encountering higher prices at checkout, while Chinese exporters are actively seeking new markets beyond the US.

Several factories in southern China, where much of the manufacturing hub resides, have been closing since early April, raising concerns about job losses.

Zhang Yikui, a worker at a factory in Guangzhou producing clothing for Amazon, mentioned that his factory’s output has dropped from 100,000 pieces monthly to around 60,000. He and about 40 colleagues were seen sewing denim dresses amid piles of Shane bags.

Zhang stated he is looking for new buyers: “People in other countries still need clothing. The US doesn’t manufacture anything like this.”

Even lesser-known Chinese manufacturers have successfully entered the American market. Eddie Chang, an e-commerce consultant in Hong Kong, previously managed Walmart’s China e-commerce operations.

“Changes have happened rapidly over the past few months,” he remarked.

Trade tensions present significant challenges to China’s economic growth, which heavily relies on exports. In April, President Trump raised tariffs to 145% on over half of China’s exports to the US, and recent official data indicates that new export orders have plummeted to their lowest since 2022.

Ting Lu, chief economist at Nomura, reported this week that nearly 6 million jobs in China could be lost in the short term due to tariffs, with potential losses rising to 16 million in the longer term.

The Chinese government is struggling to move away from its longstanding dependence on the real estate sector, which has seen a sharp price decline and has adversely affected consumer spending.

China’s cross-border e-commerce landscape has a multitude of factories that are vital to its success, making it one of the few sectors showing signs of growth.

Established over a decade ago, the emergence of platforms like Amazon and Shein coincided with China’s government efforts to expand opportunities in overseas markets for small and medium-sized enterprises.

These apps serve as channels for a diverse array of products produced in China, empowering local companies to ship packages directly to consumers and efficiently manage inventory. This accessibility has helped even small factories become global players, as noted by Harvard University professor Moira Weigel, who is researching the online marketplace.

This context facilitated Congress’s decision to raise the tax-free limit to $800, promoting access to affordable international goods for consumers and small businesses, while other nations sought to boost US exports. However, the United States remains an anomaly among significant trading partners, with China’s tax-free import threshold set at just $7.

For nearly a century, federal law exempted inexpensive goods from import taxes. The threshold was raised from $5 in 1978 to $200 in 1993.

The increase to $800 unlocked vast potential, positioning China as the largest exporter under De Minimis rules. In 2018, Chinese firms sent out packages worth about $5 billion, averaging $54 each, which skyrocketed to $66 billion by 2023, according to Congressional Research Services data.

The ongoing trade tensions and the termination of the US tax-free policy threaten to disrupt this progress.

Han Dong Hwan, founder of China’s Labor Bulletin, which monitors protests regarding factory closures, warned that the impact of tariffs could be “far worse” than the job losses experienced during the pandemic.

Some factories are turning to e-commerce platforms in Europe and Southeast Asia to find new markets for their products, while Chinese e-commerce consultants offer guidance on selling items on eBay in Japan or Amazon in Brazil.

Other Chinese sellers have begun stockpiling US goods, even acquiring warehouse space from Amazon and Walmart.

In response, the Chinese government has not only imposed high tariffs on US imports but also encouraged local consumers to buy domestically produced goods. However, as Qiu Dongxiao, dean of economics at Linnan University in Hong Kong, points out, if unemployment rises, consumer spending may diminish.

“Even those currently employed are unsure about their job security, making them hesitant to spend money,” Qiu states.

siyi Zhao Reports of contributions.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Power Outage Sparks Confusion and Reflection on Digital Reliance in Spain

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“It was utter chaos,” remarked Inigo, a physician at a hospital in northern Spain.

Since losing power on Monday afternoon, he noted that emergency generators were reserved for critical areas. This meant a lack of access to patient records, disrupted phone connectivity and email, and colleagues unable to carry out their responsibilities, leading to severe communication breakdowns.

Inigo explained that the hospital’s backup generator was intended to keep surgeries ongoing. However, operations had to be cancelled due to the challenges of safely managing orders and moving patients. “This incident made us realize just how reliant we are on technology,” he said.

On that Monday, about 55 million individuals found themselves thrust back into a pre-electric era as significant blackouts swept through Spain, Portugal, and southern France, marking one of the worst outages in recent European memory. Mobile signals vanished, traffic lights failed, supermarkets fell into darkness, digital payment systems froze, and many found themselves stranded away from home as a prolonged power outage occurred.

Last month, EU residents were advised to prepare with 72 hours’ worth of essential supplies, but this blackout underscored the susceptibility many have to widespread disruptions.

After service was restored, the Guardian spoke with individuals reflecting on the incident and its implications for future preparedness and resilience.

For Inigo, despite the disruption feeling like a “total disaster” at the moment, he appreciated in retrospect that there were no physical injuries. “Moving forward, we should invest in more backup generators and fuel to ensure smoother operations,” he suggested.

Beibei in Barcelona. Photo: Beibei/Guardian Community

Initially, Beibei, 41, in Barcelona, found the power cut to be “very thrilling.” However, concern set in when a neighbor knocked on her door with her four-month-old baby, saying, “I know it’s affecting all of Europe.” “I could see the anxiety on her face,” Beibei shared.

She needed to pick up her six-year-old son from school but had to first find food. “In the dimly lit shop, the cashier was turning away customers who couldn’t pay with cash,” explained Beibei, who is a climate activist and has lived in Spain since the pandemic hit. She collected some essentials but anxiously noticed other shoppers with full carts, fearing she wouldn’t have enough.

On her second trip with her neighbor, she found their nearest supermarket had stopped admitting customers. At another store, Beibei faced an alarming situation. “The cashier unloaded items from my basket when I realized I didn’t have enough cash. Just as the last light went out, she announced, ‘I can’t accept any payments now.’

After reuniting with her sons, Beibei expressed a newfound appreciation for everyday conveniences. “I’ve ensured I have cash ready for next time,” she mentioned.

“This experience has shifted my perspective on what truly matters in life—the nourishment we often take for granted, the presence of loved ones, and the ease of cooking and cleaning with modern appliances. I will never overlook these miracles again.”

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The outage also led to passengers being trapped in underground subway tunnels and trains, compelling many to walk long distances and remain stationary for hours.

Doug Crave, 60, from Brighton, boarded a train in Madrid at 9:57 a.m. to visit a friend in Barcelona. However, before reaching his destination, the train experienced a shudder. With no mobile signal, the doors remained sealed for nearly two hours until authorities finally arrived to open them and distribute bottled water.

Police officers distributing water to passengers caught inside a high-speed train. Photo: Doug Craib/Guardian Community

He recounted that a woman experienced a panic attack lasting about six hours. “It felt stifling and humid in the carriage,” he said. Eventually, police led passengers off the train using flashlights at night, escorting them to Barcelona where they boarded a bus that arrived around midnight.

Passengers disembarking from the train hours later, heading to the bus for transport to Barcelona. Photo: Doug Craib/Guardian Community

Crave noted that the ordeal prompted him to reconsider the increasing reliance on digital transactions, as many were unable to buy food or water during the outage.

“In every conversation I had in Barcelona regarding hotels, taxis, and restaurants, there was a common concern about the increasing trend of going cashless,” he reported. “All payment systems failed, leaving cash as the only option, yet most people were unprepared, and ATMs were non-functional.”

Katarina, a 24-year-old engineer from Porto, was in her office when the power went out. Upon returning home, she filled containers with water in case her pump stopped working. She tuned into updates via a battery-operated radio she bought after the EU’s emergency advice last month.

Katarina in Porto stayed updated on the news using a battery-operated radio and prepared water supplies. Photo: Katarina/Guardian Community

“Nobody had any idea of what to do or where to go or how long it would take,” she recalled.

“On one hand, there’s a lot of discourse about how technology has disconnected us, yet yesterday proved that we remain human. People helped one another, stepped outside, and acted as a community once more.”

With her power still out by 5 p.m. on Monday, Katarina took a stroll with her boyfriend. She observed cars halted due to the absence of traffic lights, orderly bus lines, gardens filled with readers, athletes, and families barbecuing, as well as residents chatting with passersby from their doorways.

“It was quite remarkable,” she said. “It really restored my faith in humanity to witness how quickly people banded together and supported each other despite the chaos around us.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Trump Assumes Power as Foreign Crypto Firms Enter the U.S. Market

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Last month, Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino attended a private lunch with business leaders and lawmakers at the Willard, a luxury hotel situated near the White House.

Tether has long been accused of financial misrepresentation and enabling illegal activities on its platform. However, at the Willard, Ardoino and other leaders from the crypto sector received a warm reception from Sen. Bill Hagerty, a Republican from Tennessee who serves on the Senate Banking Committee. He participated in the lunch, and discussions on digital currency regulations and national security were led by four knowledgeable attendees.

This gathering signifies a transforming landscape for crypto firms, especially with President Trump expressing support for the industry. Once operating with minimal visibility in the U.S., Tether is now seizing this shift to expand its influence in Washington.

Since President Trump took office, Tether has been advocating for regulatory changes in response to its U.S. operations. The company’s primary product, a cryptocurrency known as Stablecoin, aims to maintain a consistent price of $1. Tether aligns with a push in Congress surrounding Senate bills; legislation was introduced this year by Hagerty to define rules for Stablecoins. The firm also initiated a public relations campaign, featuring advertisements in influential Washington publications and highlighting cooperation with U.S. law enforcement agencies.

For years, Tether was viewed with suspicion. Its stability has been a favored method for criminals. In 2021, the company paid $18.5 million to settle a fraud investigation by the New York Attorney General’s office.

However, within mere days of taking office, Trump, who had begun exploring crypto alongside his sons the previous year, reversed the Biden administration’s stringent stance on digital assets. Crypto firms that once avoided the U.S. for fear of regulatory actions now enjoy significant access to Congress and the White House.

No one has undergone a transformation as pronounced as Ardoino, an Italian who had not set foot in the U.S. until this year. During a trip to Washington in March, he met with lawmakers and attended forums hosted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, mingling with industry peers at a gathering sponsored by Coinbase, a major crypto exchange.

In a recent interview and social media update, Ardoino described himself as an average foreigner on a delightful journey across America, sharing photos of his visit to the U.S. Capitol and the White House, as well as his experiences at the Central Park Zoo and the Museum of Natural History.

“I’m very naive,” he remarked in an interview with the New York Times. “I’m sure I’ll finally have my first Italian meal in New York at the age of 40.”

Ardoino takes pride in Tether’s robust partnerships. The company’s most prominent ally is investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald, which until recently was led by Howard Lutnick, Trump’s former Secretary of Commerce. One of Tether’s principal lobbyists is Jeff Miller, a significant Republican political player. Cantor Fitzgerald is also involved in discussions surrounding the Stablecoin Bill.

During his recent visit, Ardoino also met Zach Witkoff, the head of Trump’s crypto initiative, World Liberty Financial, and the son of the White House envoy to the Middle East. Tether sought guidance on media strategies from Washitz, the corporate public relations firm founded by former Republican leaders Miller and Kevin McCarthy.

“I’ve met Kevin several times,” Ardoino shared. “We maintain a solid relationship,” he noted, “because we respect the boundary that he hasn’t been involved with Howard during his term.”

Lutnick’s representative did not respond to inquiries for comments.

In a statement, Miller referred to Tether as “the ultimate ally for America,” expressing pride in representing them. A spokesperson for Hagerty mentioned that the senator participated in the March lunch to discuss the relationship between digital assets and national security.

Even within the chaotic world of crypto, Tether’s origin story is particularly intriguing, featuring a diverse array of characters. The company was founded 11 years ago by ex-child actor Brock Pierce, who, alongside his associates, eventually transferred control to Italian Giancarlo Devasini, a former plastic surgeon.

Devasini, now a crypto millionaire, lives in Switzerland and is seldom in the limelight. Ardoino, a former software developer who has been connected with Tether for much of the past decade, stated that since 2014, he has served as the public face of the company.

Tether’s offerings aim to mitigate the significant drawbacks of traditional cryptocurrencies, which are often volatile and less practical for everyday transactions. Stablecoins retain a $1 valuation, making them a preferred choice for many crypto traders.

In essence, Tether and similar issuers function akin to banks. For instance, if a trader deposits $500, they receive 500 Tether coins. The issuer earns income by investing some of these deposits while maintaining their own returns. The model relies on the issuer having sufficient reserves for each coin in circulation and the ability for customers to redeem holdings at any time.

Critics of Tether have long argued that their reserves are inadequate to cover redemption requests. When the New York State Attorney General’s Office announced its 2021 settlement, it was stated that Tether had misrepresented the nature of its reserves, dubbing its cryptocurrency both “unstable” and “stable.”

“Tether’s reputation should matter to everyone,” emphasized California Representative Maxine Waters, a leading Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee in an interview.

Yet, Tether has continually managed to navigate challenges. Currently, the company has made its public audit accessible, revealing that approximately two-thirds of its reserves, equating to about $94 billion, are invested in U.S. Treasury bills.

Last year, Tether recorded profits exceeding $13 billion, establishing itself as one of the wealthiest cryptocurrency operations globally. In December, Tether made an investment of $775 million in Rumble, a right-leaning streaming platform closely associated with Trump Media & Technology Group. Additionally, it has unveiled plans for Tether Tower, a headquarters in El Salvador.

One of Tether’s most influential allies in the U.S. is Lutnick, whose company, Cantor Fitzgerald, manages billions in U.S. Treasury investments for Tether, lending the firm an air of institutional credibility. At last summer’s Bitcoin Conference, Lutnick confirmed that he could verify full backing for Tether coins.

“We accounted for every penny,” he stated at the event. He exclaimed.

After Lutnick was appointed as Secretary of Commerce, he delegated control of Cantor Fitzgerald to his sons. Currently, Cantor Fitzgerald and Tether, in collaboration with lobbyist Miller, are working on shaping Stablecoin regulations in Washington. Lobbying disclosures indicate that both are active in discussions on the Senate’s Stablecoin Act, which sets guidelines to ensure that U.S. issuers maintain adequate reserves.

However, the official guidelines introduced for national innovation under the U.S. Stablecoins Act include provisions allowing foreign issuers to sell coins without adhering to the new regulations, subject to certain law enforcement agency requirements. This clause has drawn criticism from Democratic senators during recent Banking Committee hearings, who denounced it as a “significant loophole” benefiting Tether.

“My Republican colleagues appear concerned about backlash from one of Donald Trump’s close associates,” remarked Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts.She stated at the hearing.

Ultimately, the Banking Committee approved advancing the bill to the full Senate.

In an interview, Ardoino expressed that he is “very excited” about the Genius Law’s language requiring cooperation with law enforcement, as Tether is already closely collaborating with U.S. authorities. He revealed that Tether is considering launching a U.S. branch and offering “domestic stubcoins” tailored for financial institutions.

Ardoino plans to return frequently to the U.S. He described Washington as “very clean,” although he had some reservations about the food. He is enthusiastic about the potential to challenge American crypto firms on their home turf.

“What fun,” Ardoino remarked.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Catherine McCormick: Unleashing the Power of Birth Control Pills

Posted on April 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This article is part of It’s overlookedno obituaries were reported in the times about the astonishing people who died in 1851.

Katherine Dexter McCormick was born into a life of wealth that has deteriorated through marriage, but may have simply enjoyed many of the benefits that flowed in her way. Instead, she placed her considerable fortune, in line with her considerable intentionality, to make the woman’s life better.

Activist, philanthropist and benefactor McCormick strategically used her wealth. Most notably, he undertook basic research that led to the development of contraceptives in the late 1950s.

Previously, contraception in the US was very limited, with diaphragm and condoms being banned. The advent of pills made it easier for women to plan when and whether they have children, and promoted the explosive sexual revolution of the 1960s. Today, the pill is despite some side effects Most widely used A reversible form of birth control in the United States.

McCormick’s interest in birth control began in the 1910s when she learned of Margaret Sanger, a feminist leader who was imprisoned for opening the country’s first birth control clinic. She shared Sanger’s passionate belief that women should be able to diagram their biological fate.

The two met in 1917 and soon hatched an elaborate scheme for smuggling diaphragms into the United States.

Diaphragm was prohibited under the Comstock Act of 1873, resulting in a federal crime of mailing or delivering “indecent, indecent or crude” material, including pornography, birth control, and items used for abortion. (I have received laws that still prohibit mailing items related to abortions New attention (Because the federal rights to abortion were overturned in 2022)

Fluent in French and German, McCormick traveled to Europe, where the diaphragm was commonly used. She studied biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and was able to possibly possibly in a meeting with the diaphragm maker. “She bought hundreds of devices and hired a local tailor to sew it on her dresses, evening dresses and coats.” Articles from 2011 MIT Technology Review. “Then she wrapped her clothes around and stuffed them neatly into the trunk for shipping.”

She and her steamer trunks passed through customs. If authorities had stopped her, they would have said, “Only the slightly fluffy dresses that own the boss’s socialites would ooze such self-importance, grandly restraining Porter and doubting nothing.”

From 1922 to 1925, McCormick smuggled over 1,000 diaphragms into Sanger’s clinic.

After her husband passed away in 1947, she took over a significant amount of money, and she asked Sanger for advice on how to put it to use birth control advances. In 1953, Sanger introduced Gregory Goodwin Pinkus and Min Chew Chan, a researcher in Worcester experimental biology in Massachusetts.

She was excited by their work and provided what she needed to provide almost all of the funding (about $23 million today). She even moved to Worcester to monitor and encourage their research. Pincus’ wife Elizabeth explained that McCormick was a warrior.

Food and Drug Administration Pill has been approved For birth control in 1960.

Katherine Moore Dexter was born on August 27, 1875 in Dexter, west of Detroit, to a family of wealthy social activists. The town is named after his grandfather, Samuel W. Dexter. Samuel W. Dexter founded it in 1824, maintaining an underground railway stop in the home where Catherine was born. Her great grandfather, Samuel Dexter, was the Secretary of Treasury under President John Adams.

Catherine and her brother, Samuel T. Dexter, grew up in Chicago. Their mother, Josephine (Moore) Dexter, was a Boston Brahmin who supported women’s rights. Their father, Wirt Dexter, was a powerful lawyer who served as president of the Chicago Bar Association and director of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroads. He also later led the relief committee. Amazing Chicago Fire In 1871 he was a major real estate developer.

He passed away when Catherine was 14 years old. A few years later, her brother died of meningitis while attending Harvard Law School. Those early deaths directed her into a medical career.

She attended MIT and majored in biology. A rare achievement for women of that era. She arrives with her own heart and successfully completes the rule that female students must always wear hats, claiming that they always pose a fire risk at the Institute of Science. She graduated in 1904 and was planning to attend medical school.

But by then she had begun dating the dashing Stanley Robert McCormick, whom she knew in Chicago. She knew in Chicago. As a young lawyer, he helped negotiate the merger that became his family. Main owner of International HarvesterBy 1909 it was America’s fourth largest industrial company and was measured by assets.

McCormick persuades Katherine to marry him instead of going to medical school. They married at their Swiss mother Chateau and settled in Brookline, Massachusetts.

However, even before they got married, he showed signs of mental instability, so he began to experience violent and delusional delusions. He was later admitted to hospital with what was later determined to be schizophrenia and remained under psychiatric care – almost Riven Rock, Until his death, McCormick Family Estate in Montecito, California. She never divorced him and never remarried. They had no children.

Katherine McCormick spent decades in personal, medical and legal disputes with her husband’s siblings. They fought about his treatment, his protection, and ultimately his property, Prologue Magazine’s 2007 articlePublications of the National Archives. She is his sole beneficiary, inheriting about $40 million ($563 million in today’s dollars). She combined with the $10 million inherited from her mother (more than $222 million today) made her one of America’s wealthiest women.

As her husband’s illness consumed her personal life, McCormick threw herself into social causes. She contributed financially to the suffrage movement, gave speeches, demonstrated leadership and demonstrated leadership to become treasurer and vice president. National Women’s Suffrage Association. After women gained the right to vote in 1920, the association evolved into a federation of women’s voters. McCormick has become vice president.

In 1927 she founded the Neuroendocrine Research Foundation at Harvard Medical School. She provided funding for 20 years, gaining expertise in endocrinology, and later conveyed her interest in the development of oral contraceptives.

After the FDA approved the pill, McCormick turned his attention to funding the first on-campus residence for women at MIT when he studied there. The women did not have a home. “If we can properly accommodate them, the best science education in our country will be open forever,” she said.

Named after her husband, McCormick Hall opened in 1963 on the Institute’s Cambridge campus. At the time, women accounted for about 3% of the school’s undergraduate students. Today they make up about 50%.

By the time she died of a stroke at her Boston home on December 28, 1967, McCormick was playing a major role in expanding opportunities for women in the 20th century. She was 92 years old.

Apart from the short Boston Globe article, she barely noticed her death. The later obituaries of birth control researchers she supported did not mention her role in their achievements.

At her will, she left $5 million in the planned Parent-Child Relations Federation (more than $46 million today) and $1 million in the Pincus Institute (more than $9 million today). Previously, she had donated Swiss successive property to the US government for use by diplomatic missions in Geneva. She left most of the rest of her property

Source: www.nytimes.com

Foie Gras created using molecular mimicry, without the need for power

Posted on March 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Alternative Foie Gras for Researchers undergoing stress testing in the lab

Thomas A. Birgiss

French delicate foie gras could be made more ethically thanks to techniques that replicate the way fat is metabolized in forced birds, but the process still relies on farm animals.

Foie gras is made from duck or goose liver that is forcefully applied via tubes. This process, known as gavage, causes organs to expand to ten times the normal amount as the animal stores excess fat.

Researchers say the experience of eating foie gras depends not only on its high fat content, but also on its microscopic distribution of its fat.

now Thomas Birgiss At the Max Planck Institute, the Polymer Institute in Mainz, Germany and his colleagues developed a new process that uses the same bird fat to create the same texture from ducks or geese normally raised and slaughtered into the liver.

“I’m a huge fan of foie gras,” says Birgis. “I was fascinated by this mouthfeel – it was so different to the other putty – so I asked myself, what is it?”

His team had previously tried to make foie gras with putty in the same proportion of fat and liver ratio, but the results were disappointing. In further experiments, collagen was added to replicate the density of foie gras, but it gave me something that felt like a gum in my mouth.

Vilgis then realized that releasing enzymes that divide fat before storing them in the liver is a way to efficiently store large fat molecules as smaller crystalline substances.

He and his colleagues discovered that this process can be replicated by treating fat with an enzyme called yeast lipase. Candida Lugosa. “Lipases are molecular sizers,” says Birgis. Next, the processed fat is mixed with the liver to create fake foie gras.

The team conducted numerous scientific tests, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and compared fake foie glasses with real samples, resulting in promising results. Importantly, however, Vigoris says that the aroma and taste are “substantially not different” from the real thing.

The process is currently patented and researchers are discussing with the industry about commercializing the industry and bringing counterfeit gras to the market.

Due to ethical concerns, and in some countries, including the UK, many alternatives have been developed previously that claim to produce similar results, as it is traditionally illegal to produce foie gras. Also, at least two companies are trying to bring it in Lab-grown foie gras are available on the market.

Dawn Car People for Ethical Animal Treatment (PETA) says lab-fed meat is a more ethical route than a new lipase process that involves animal care and genocide. “We don’t need to kill animals for a fleeting taste moment,” Kerr says. “The future of foie gras is already here, and it doesn’t require any power or throat slits.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

An Epic Scientific Journey to Uncover the Persuasive Power of Folk Tales

Posted on March 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Once upon a time, a strong and attractive hero lost one or both of his parents. He then overcomes a series of obstacles and faces off against a monster that terrorized his community. The hero defeated the monsters and was celebrated.

If this story sounds familiar, it’s because it’s a path traveled by Superman, Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker, and countless other fictional heroes dating back centuries. Its enduring appeal has been baffling researchers for almost a long time. However, in recent years, storytelling research has been energized as linguists, psychologists and cultural evolutionary experts have begun to investigate subjects using myths and large private databases, powerful algorithms and evolutionary mindsets. We have finally begun to connect answers to key questions, such as why we make a good story, why there are more permanent than others, and how we can trace the roots of the most popular, and how stories can pass through time and space.

It’s an epic quest, but there has never been a better time to take on it. Unlike his brother Grimm and other early folktales collectors, modern surveyors of storytelling don’t need to do any painstaking fieldwork. They don’t even have to stray from computer screens and diagram the emergence and evolution of stories. “Social media is an almost natural experiment in storytelling, and we do our collections through that platform,” says Timothy Tangerini, folklore player and ethnic editor at the University of California, Berkeley. Furthermore, this new scientific approach can illuminate some phenomena that look like modern times…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Struggle for Power: Could Brazil’s Growing Data Center Industry Leave Everyday People Behind?

Posted on March 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

tWith a wide range of boating hours from Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas province, Deodato Alves Da Silva is hoping for enough power to keep his Tucumã and Cupuaçu Fruits fresh. These highly nutritious Amazon superfoods are rich in antioxidants and vitamins and serve as the main source of income for farmers in the Silva region. However, there is a lack of electricity to refrigerate the fruit, making it difficult to sell produce.

Silva's fruit cultivation work is located in the village of Boa Frente in Novo Alipuana, one of the most energy-poor regions in Brazil, with only one diesel-powered generator working several hours a day.

Seventeen families in the community pay for diesel, but due to the high prices, everyone agrees to use the generator between 6pm and 10pm. This is also the only time they can communicate with the outside world. There is no mobile phone connection in this area, only satellite internet.

“The power is supplied for four hours per night. The motor is off and the switch is turned back the next night,” says Silva, 72, a rural health worker and fruit grower who has lived in the area since birth.

“If we have the power to preserve Cupuaçupulp, we will have much higher incomes. Our community is a massive producer of Tucumã, but lack of power prevents conservation.”

More than 1.3 million Brazilians still live, like Silva. There is one of them, but
The cleanest power grid in the worldthe country has vulnerabilities. Reliance on hydroelectric power causes fluctuations in power generation and power outages during severe droughts.

Source: www.theguardian.com

The power of subterranean pressure is reshaping the Earth’s inner core.

Posted on February 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Diagram showing the inner structure of the Earth

Rostislav Zatonskiy/Alamy

The inner core of Earth’s solids appears to have changed shape over the last 20 years or so, according to seismic wave measurements, but the behavior of these waves can also be explained by other shifts at the center of the planet.

Since the 1990s, models and earthquake measurements have shown that the inner core of Earth’s iron nickel moves at its own pace. Over decades, the inner core rotation is faster, slower than other planets, affecting the length of the day and more.

These rotational changes are primarily due to magnetic forces produced by convection in the Earth’s liquid outer core, they say. John Vidale At the University of Southern California. “That flow constantly torques the inner core.”

These magnetic forces, or related processes, can change the shape of the inner core and its rotation. In fact, previous measurements of seismic waves passing through the center of the planet seem to show just that. However, uncertainty regarding the rotation of the core made it impossible to distinguish between rotational changes and shape changes.

Now, Vidale and his colleagues are analyzing seismic waves generated by 128 earthquakes off the coast of South America between 1991 and 2023. All waves were measured by Alaskan instruments after passing through the planet.

From these, researchers have identified 168 sets of seismic waves that have passed through or near the same area of the inner core, but have been away for years. It was only possible to identify these matches Recent work Vidale says it will better constrain the variation in rotation of the inner core.

Both waves of each pair that did not pass through the inner core shared a similar pattern, suggesting that in the region within the planet nothing had changed between the first and second earthquakes. Masu. However, the waves of the pair crossed with the inner core did not match.

Researchers say this suggests that the inner core not only slows down and speeds up rotation for decades but also changes shape. They say that these changes are magnetically pulled at the less viscous edge of the inner core of the solid or interaction between the inner core and the structure of the planetary core and the lower mantle. They say it is likely caused by interactions between the layers. The crust.

hrvojetkalčić At Australian National University, which was not involved in the study, this is a “step” to resolve changes in the internal core beyond rotation. However, he says that the shape change is not the only explanation for the seismic waves of incongruity.

As Vidale and his colleagues acknowledge, these differences can also be caused by unrelated changes in the outer core, convection within the inner core itself, or by eruption of melted material from the inner core. There is. “It’s really hard to tell,” Bidal says. He suggests that studying more repeated earthquakes in the future will help identify changes in more detail.

Tkalčić says seismological measurements in remote areas such as the seabed are also useful. “This is important for understanding the deepest inner evolution of Earth, from the time of the planetary layers to the present,” he says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Executive order signed by Trump aims at electric vehicles and wind power

Posted on January 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

overview

President Donald Trump issued two executive orders targeting the promotion of electric vehicles and wind power by the Biden administration.
These technologies are crucial in combating climate change, but the orders could hinder their growth.
Advocates for electric vehicles and green energy criticized the decision.

On Monday, President Donald Trump significantly impacted two rapidly growing environmentally friendly technologies in the United States, electric vehicles and wind power, through two executive orders.

These orders were aimed at countering the Biden administration’s efforts to boost these technologies, which have been gaining momentum in the drive to reduce carbon emissions in the U.S. energy sector. President Trump also announced the withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement, where countries commit to reducing carbon emissions to combat global warming.

One of Trump’s presidential orders rescinded several climate-focused directives, including standards on tailpipe emissions to promote electric vehicle adoption. This move was criticized by electric vehicle advocates, who argued that it could harm America’s competitiveness in the global automotive market.

Trump’s other order temporarily halted federal approvals for offshore wind energy projects in federal waters and restricted federal agencies from issuing new permits or loans for wind energy projects, both onshore and offshore. The order falsely claimed that wind power could lead to higher energy costs and harm marine life, such as whales, despite no known links according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The orders faced backlash from advocates of electric vehicles and wind power. Jason Grumet, CEO of the American Clean Power Association, criticized the move, stating that it contradicted Trump’s goal of freeing up energy production in the U.S.

The adoption of electric vehicles and wind power has been increasing in recent years. Electric and hybrid vehicles accounted for 20% of new car sales in the U.S. in 2024, and sales are projected to continue growing. Wind power is also predicted to be a significant source of new energy capacity in the U.S. by 2050.

President Trump has been known to criticize wind power, attributing whale deaths to offshore wind projects and making unsubstantiated claims about health risks associated with wind turbines. Climate groups have warned that Trump’s executive orders could harm global environmental efforts and hinder green job growth.

Despite these challenges, advocates believe that clean technology will continue to progress, regardless of regulatory obstacles. President Trump’s orders could face legal challenges, particularly regarding California’s stricter tailpipe pollution standards, which aim to reduce air pollution and combat climate change.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Increased power outages likely to expand nationwide in the U.S.

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A new report predicts that power outages lasting more than eight hours will increase in the United States in the coming years due to climate change. Extreme weather events caused by climate change, such as cyclones, are making it challenging to cope with these outages. Severe weather events that occur simultaneously, like wildfires during heat waves, are already causing more prolonged power outages, according to a study published in the journal agreement.

From 2000 to 2023, 80% of power outages in the US were weather-related, and this number is expected to rise further due to the increasing severity and frequency of extreme weather events accelerated by climate change. These events not only come with economic costs but also health risks, disrupting essential services like heating, air conditioning, and medical equipment.

https://c02.purpledshub.com/uploads/sites/41/2025/01/GettyImages-2193374564.mp4

More than 400,000 homes and businesses in California lost power due to recent devastating wildfires

While it may not be possible to prevent weather events, researchers believe that tracking patterns can help in better preparing for power outages and distributing aid effectively. Understanding when and where power outages coincide with severe weather events can help mitigate their impact, particularly as aging power grids and climate change lead to more severe weather.

A study analyzed weather events from 2018 to 2020, finding that nearly 75% of US counties experienced significant power outages during dangerous weather events. The study also observed an increase in simultaneous power outages and wildfires along the West Coast from 2018 to 2020.

Researchers are now working on simulating different dangerous weather combinations in various regions to develop effective response plans across the country. Doctoral student and lead author of the study, Vivian Do, emphasized the importance of understanding these patterns to minimize the societal impact of power outages during severe weather events.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Let AI Decide Your Outfit: The Power of Artificial Intelligence

Posted on January 19, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

MWhen a friend enters the village hall and views footage from his son’s third birthday party, a mix of panic and disbelief washes over his face. “I didn’t realize we were supposed to dress up,” he exclaims upon seeing my attire. I feel my cheeks flush. I’m clad in a mint green tulle midi dress with sheer sleeves and a tiered skirt that resembles a Quality Street girl or a three-year-old celebrating a birthday. Let’s face it, this isn’t the most practical ensemble for serving cake to 18 sticky-handed toddlers, but when I blurt it out to my friend in an attempt to clear up any confusion, the avant-garde nature… The appearance was not quite what I intended. My choice was that of AI.

I have a fondness for unique clothing. Unconventional cuts, distinctive fabrics, vibrant colors, and exciting textures. My wardrobe is my identity, my sanctuary, my passion, and my happy place. Or at least, it used to be. Since the arrival of my second child, getting dressed has become a daunting task. I’m overwhelmed by choices and struggle with decision fatigue every time I approach my overflowing closet. With a 3-year-old and a 6-month-old vying for my attention, I find myself short on time and inundated. This morning, I hastily threw on clothes while my youngest wailed for a nap. My once pristine personal style quickly deteriorated, now tainted with breast milk and squished bananas.

Desiring a Change As I stood naked in front of the mirror with the clock ticking down, I yearned for a personal stylist. Someone to peruse my wardrobe and dictate what I should wear for daycare pickup or a night out with friends (in an ideal world). Hence, I made the decision to explore a styling app.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Anticipating Nintendo’s Switch 2 Annoucement: Enhanced Power, Magnetic Controllers, and Backwards Compatibility

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nintendo may announce its next console this week, a successor to the Nintendo Switch, which was released in March 2017 and sold 150 million units. There’s just one problem. That said, we already know almost everything about it. There is little that Nintendo can announce at this point that will come as a surprise to anyone who has been following the rumors closely.

Nintendo Switch 2 leaks started trickling in last summer and escalated to a flood this month. Last week, CES Technology Trade Show In Las Vegas, accessory maker Genki arrived with a complete model of Nintendo’s next console, which they were happy to show off behind closed doors to explain their upcoming product. You can also see detailed renderings on Genki’s website. It’s a slightly larger and more powerful version of the Switch console we know and love, with controllers that attach magnetically to the side of the screen rather than sliding in and out. Play while docked to your TV or on the go.

This is a very un-Nintendo approach. Aside from the NES/SNES, all of Nintendo’s consoles ushered in a revolution in form factors. There was the N64, with its pioneering analog sticks and three-pronged controller. GameCube looks like a stubby toy. Wii, motion control remote control included. Its successor, the Wii U, added a screen in the center of the controller. With the exception of the dual-screen DS and its successor, the 3DS, which added stereoscopic 3D to the console’s capabilities, this is the first time Nintendo has produced two consecutive consoles that look and act the same. They even share a name and logo. The most reliable information currently indicates that it will be called Nintendo Switch 2.

I won’t repeat any more details that were leaked about the Switch 2. They are easy to search and within the next day or so you can clearly see what is true and what is false. Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will share its back catalog with the Switch. This will allow all players to enjoy all the games they have purchased over the past eight years on their new console. We also know it won’t be out until April (June is my money), as it’s scheduled to come out in Nintendo’s next fiscal year. However, this is an unusual situation. We know almost everything about the console from gaming’s most secretive company even before it’s officially announced. How did it happen?

It was difficult to get a PS5 on release day. Photo: Charlie Tribalew/AFP/Getty Images

When the PlayStation 5 was released in 2020, the biggest talking point at the time was that people wouldn’t be able to get their hands on the PlayStation 5. Some customers who pre-ordered the PS5 received a package containing a bag of rice instead, but it was swapped with a vendor who was having trouble with the delivery chain. On eBay and other resale platforms, consoles were selling for two to three times the retail price. The supply-demand gap has dogged gaming consoles for at least the first two years, caused in part by manufacturing challenges during the pandemic. Nintendo probably wanted to avoid a similar situation.

We know that Nintendo’s manufacturing partners have been manufacturing parts for this console for a long time, over a year. The company aims to maintain large amounts of inventory in preparation for product launches. This is one of the reasons why so much information was leaked in advance. Various companies are already involved in the production of the Switch 2, and units and some units have been out for quite some time.

Nintendo also hasn’t gone after leakers or legally shut anything down in the way you might expect. The company’s only response to this deluge of unauthorized information, given to Japan’s Sankei Shimbun last week, was that “these images and videos are not official.” This suggests that Nintendo itself thought this might be inevitable. The company is delaying the announcement of its next console for as long as possible to preserve the survival of the phenomenally successful Switch, and said it doesn’t think these leaks will significantly damage its sales outlook.

The Switch 2 announcement will likely contain some surprises. What’s surprising is the rather un-Nintendo nature of this iterative console, and the piecemeal nature of what we’re discovering about it. Stay tuned for official announcements coming soon for more details.

what to play

Literally mow the grass. It’s literally just mowing the grass. Photo: Protostar

Effortless dad games for those who don’t want to spend time in the garden for a quiet January: It’s literally just mowing the grass. That’s exactly right. With a swipe, the small riding lawn mower eases its way through the ever-widening swathes of rough grass in your neighbor’s yard until the entire street is tidy. Cut the grass, collect hats, tap and admire different types of butterflies. It was my friend Patrick Klepek from the pro-gamer newsletter who brought this to my attention. cross play (We do a podcast together about navigating games with kids), and I was surprised to find myself playing it for a full 30 minutes straight. Am I getting old?

Available: iOS/Android

Estimated play time: 5 minutes or 1 hour, as long as you like

what to read

Dreams on a Pillow took 10 years to create. Photo: Rasheed Abueide

Games about Dreams on a Pillow 1948 Nakba Palestinian developer Rasheed Abueideh has reached his fundraising goal. I spoke to Abueide about the many obstacles he faced in trying to tell the Palestinian story through video games, challenges that no one should have to face.
Square Enix announces new policy The purpose is to protect staff from: Harassment by toxic fansit goes beyond restricting games and services for players who abuse support staff and developers.
Latest Great game in no time speed running event Last weekend, we raised more than $2.5 million for charity. A personal highlight was the Crazy Taxi player accompanied by a live pop-punk band.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

Elon Musk’s Rise to Power as the World’s Top Non-Elected Leader in 2024

Posted on December 24, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Hello. Welcome to Techscape. After enduring the recent impact of COVID-19, I’ve been reflecting on screen time and isolation. Just a few days of isolation and prolonged screen exposure were enough to bring back the mental state I experienced for most of 2020. Wishing everyone a wonderful winter and a happy new year filled with family, friends, and joyous gatherings.

Today on Techscape: A recap of the biggest tech story of 2024 – Elon Musk and the US Amazon worker strike.

Technology in 2024: Elon Musk as Influential as Donald Trump

Donald Trump listens to Elon Musk, who arrived to watch SpaceX’s giant rocket Starship take off for a test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, on November 19th. Photo: Brandon Bell/AP

The significant tech story of the year is Elon Musk’s meteoric rise to power and global influence in 2024. Musk has become the most prominent individual worldwide without winning any elections. He holds sway over the US President and exerts control over vital government bodies regulating his companies, which have become crucial to many countries’ digital infrastructure. His enormous wealth makes US lawmakers uneasy, and his tweets impact leaders globally.

Since Trump’s presidency, Musk has wielded his influence boldly by shaping government decisions. His recent clash with the House of Representatives over a spending deal highlighted tensions in US politics. Despite his and Trump’s efforts, Republicans resisted their demands, pointing to the limits of CEO power and foreshadowing 2025’s potential chaos. Democrats mocked Musk as “President Elon Musk,” hinting at the escalating power struggle.

As political storms rage, it’s crucial to contemplate Musk’s rapid ascendancy in American politics and the implications it holds. Let’s delve into his timeline of events throughout the year, revealing Musk’s inevitable dominion over 2024 akin to Trump’s reign from 2015 to 2021, setting global news agendas with their actions.

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The Broader Technology Landscape

Source: www.theguardian.com