Best New Science Fiction of the Month: From Jasper Ford to Hugo Award-nominated Daniel Polanski

A priestess can manipulate time and space in Meredith Mooring's debut novel.

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After an endlessly long January, it's finally time to see what sci-fi fun February has in store for us. This month's lineup is varied. I’m looking forward to the delightfully gory post-apocalyptic novels by Daniel Polanski and Paul E. Hardisty – I love a good story of a world in ruins – and also to Jasper Forde’s latest novel I'm going to take the time.My favorite author from a long time ago air incident Released in 2001. But at the top of my list to track is Meredith Mooring's work. red sight – Starring a blind shrine maiden who can manipulate time and space.

Nothing cheers me up like apocalyptic fun and frolic, and Hugo nominee Polanski's new work sounds like a corker. Manhattan is enveloped in a “toxic cloud” called Funk, which cuts it off from the rest of the world and mutates its population. For generations, when the first tourists in centuries arrived on the island, the survivors were focused only on survival.

This is sitting on my desk at home waiting for the moment I can read it at all.This is the first part of the climate emergency thriller. compulsionThe film sees Kweku Ashworth, born on a sailing ship as his parents escape disaster, set out to uncover what has brought the world into cataclysm. More apocalyptic catastrophes – great!

This is the sequel to Fforde's bestseller. shades of grayfollows “Something Happened'' 500 years ago and is set in a society where class is determined by visible colors. Eddie Russett and Jane Gray realize that this may not make any sense at all and may be unfair, so they investigate.

Unemployed and in debt, Jonathan Abernathy takes a job as a dream auditer, who taps into workers' dreams to relieve their fears and increase productivity. I loved this wonderfully wicked idea, and one reviewer described the novel as a “spiritual sibling.” Severance paybut it's even creepier,' and it's right up my street.

This sounds very strange. Plastic Girl Erin lives in a plastic world, where she sells a type of wearable technology called a smart body to her fellow plastic people. This allows people to fully immerse themselves in the virtual world as a refuge from real life and its wars. Author Elizabeth McCracken says it's “a profound, hilarious, chilling, strange, and immeasurably complex story about an imaginary universe that is also somehow our own broken world.” says.

red sight Written by Meredith Mooring

I like the sound of Corinna, the heroine of Mooring's debut novel. She is a blind priestess who can manipulate time and space, but she has been raised to believe that she is weak and useless. When she takes a job as a navigator on an Imperial ship, she realizes that she is meant to be a weapon of the Empire. But Corinna's world changes forever when her ship is attacked by the infamous pirate Aster Harran.

Exoldia Written by Seth Dickinson

“Michael Crichton meets Marvel” Venom” says the story's publisher, in which Anna, a refugee and genocide survivor, joins a team investigating “mysterious broadcasts and unknown horrors” as “humanity reels from disaster.” I love the drama promised here.

The setting, suggested by former sci-fi columnist Sally Addy as an Earth to watch in 2024, sees two Earths exist in parallel, and “shifters” can travel back and forth between them. Kanna and Lily are the same person, randomly moving between worlds, lives, and families, but needing to settle in one or the other. And how can we prepare our loved ones for the final disappearance?

Perhaps this debut novel isn't science fiction per se, but it's fiction about science, and I thought it would be interesting, so I wanted to mention it. Helen, a young physicist trying to save the planet, follows his mentor (who is embroiled in a sex scandal with a student) to an island laboratory that provides a safe haven for disgraced artists and scientists. It depicts the decision to go to

The Bone Hunters is loosely inspired by the life of 19th century paleontologist Mary Anning.

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Again, it's science fiction, not science fiction, and it's advertised as follows: essex snake meet ammonite, it's very hard to say no, at least for me. A loose depiction of the life of a pioneer 19thWritten by century-old paleontologist Mary Anning, the story is set in Lyme Regis, Dorset, England in 1824, when 24-year-old Ada Winters discovers a “rare fossil” on a cliff.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Your brain is naturally inclined to avoid exercise: The science behind it.

Humans are not the fastest or strongest species. We have no wings, fangs, claws, poison, or armor. Physically, we are primarily controlled by nature.

However, the words “run the same way'' are ironic. This is because humans physically dominate all other species in one area: long-distance running. Thanks to our bipedalism and unique sweat glands, humans can continue running long after other species have collapsed from exhaustion.

Humans have evolved to train their bodies, or exercise, over long periods of time. But while many people actually enjoy exercise, they're in the minority (as evidenced by uncrowded gyms and abandoned New Year's resolutions in mid-February).

So why doesn't everyone enjoy exercise, even though we've evolved to do so? It’s because of the mysterious complexity of the human brain.Evolving abilities does not automatically evolve want to use it. Armored creatures do not want to be actively attacked.

Although physical exercise is not that Bad, but still usually unpleasant and uncomfortable. It must be so. You end up pushing your body to its physical limits, which leads to significant discomfort. There are limits for a reason.



What does the brain think about exercise?

Another problem is that the human brain is extremely sensitive to wasted effort. Research has shown that the insular cortex contains dedicated circuitry. Calculate the effort required for an action – They are there to ask “Is it worth it?”

This is a trend that evolved to prevent us from wasting vital resources on pointless endeavors, such as walking 20 miles to buy a handful of berries.

However, regular exercise to “get in shape” requires constant and great effort. It's all about gradual progress and uncertain rewards (it's impossible to guarantee success in advance). In other words, your brain tends to ask, “Is it worth it?” It would be difficult to keep quiet.

This trait also means that we typically prefer things that give us the most reward with the least amount of effort. So we choose the path of least resistance, stick to our routine, and stay in our comfort zone.

Starting to exercise means changing everything for an uncertain result. To keep us safe, our brains typically tend to value risk over reward, making us more reluctant to engage in physically demanding activities.

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So while our bodies may be adapted to continuous exercise, our brains are adapted to avoid it in many ways. And we have built a world for ourselves where avoiding physical activity is a viable option.

Thankfully, the human brain is an incredibly complex organ, so there are some metaphorical tricks up your sleeve. Most obviously, it is not dominated by more primitive and direct instincts and impulses. Many species' thought processes are limited to “Food, eat!”, “Danger, run!”, “Pain, avoid!”, but we have evolved beyond that.

The human brain is capable of forming multiple long-term goals and ambitions. We are rarely satisfied with just day-to-day survival. We simply simulate a desired future scenario, figure out how to achieve it, and then…do it. Or at least strive towards it.

This directly affects how our brains process motivation and willpower in many interesting ways. First, it allows you to delay gratification. In other words, you will realize that it is important to refuse the reward now. Can lead to bigger rewards later, and act accordingly.

In this case, eating four bags of potato chips as a family while watching TV is fun in the moment, but going to the gym will make you fitter, stronger, and fitter later on.

And then there's the “just world” fallacy. Here we assume the world is fair and that is what makes us believe. research shows this – No matter how much suffering you suffer, it will always lead to reward. As the saying goes, no pain, no gain.

How the brain increases motivation

So how does the brain process all these different motivations? Self-contradiction theory suggests that we have multiple “selves” active in our minds at any given time. The “real” self, the “ideal” self, and the “ideal” self.

Your “actual” self is your current state, or how you are right now. Your “ideal self” is yourself. want Something to do. And your “ideal” self is one that does whatever it takes to become your “ideal” self.you do what you do should What I'm doing. In other words, if your “ideal” self is a professional soccer player and your “real” self is not, then the “ideal” you is someone who has to train, exercise, and train a lot to get better at soccer. It's someone who spends their time.

This is just one framework for how motivation works when it comes to physical exercise. Of course, there are many other factors that play an important role, such as time constraints, body image, and ease of movement.

However, as far as the brain is concerned, there are processes that prevent movement and processes that promote movement. Ideally, you'll end up focusing more on the latter than the former. Also, moving weights is a classic exercise, so it's a good idea to start somewhere.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

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Top science fiction reads released in January 2024

Alastair Reynolds and Esmee Zikiemi-Pearson are two authors who set their novels in space in January this year.

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There won’t be a lot of new science fiction this January, but there are some gems to look forward to, including a new release from science fiction guru Alastair Reynolds, who wrote our masterpiece. new scientist This year’s Christmas short story is Lottie and the river. I’m also really looking forward to Esmee Zikiemi-Pearson’s debut feature, a space opera with epic ambitions, and Alice McIlroy’s creepy psychological thriller. glass woman, a scientist is implanted with technology that results in him losing his memory. If I have the courage, I will read Toro Toro Tsamase’s book. City of wombs. If this isn’t enough and you’re looking for more tips for the year ahead, be sure to check out science fiction columnist Sally Addy’s tips for reading in 2024.

machine vendetta Written by Alastair Reynolds. I’ll take a new Alastair Reynolds any day. This latest information is in him Governor Dreyfus The series sees Dreyfus investigate the death of Invar Tench, a police officer who worked to maintain democracy in the 10,000 city-states orbiting the planet Yellowstone.

principle of the moment Written by Esme Jikiemi Pearson. This space opera is Zikiemi-Pearson’s first novel and follows Obi, who time-travels from the planet Garrahan in 6066, where humans are indentured laborers for the Emperor’s war machine, to London in 1812, where he meets a young girl. , sounds great. From the British Museum at another time. It’s said to be for fans of Becky Chambers, VE Schwab, and NK Jemisin, but all are must-reads for me. Seems like the perfect antidote to the January blues.

glass woman Written by Alice McIlroy.This is a psychological thriller like “BThere’s no mirror meet before going to bed as Severance pay: The story follows Iris, a scientist who volunteers to become a test subject for an experimental treatment that inserts technology into her brain. However, she no longer has her memory and wonders why she volunteered for the treatment in the first place. I don’t know if I did it or even what it is. It’s eerily awesome, and I’m sure I’ll be spending my commute and nights in January with it.

In Alice McIlroy’s The Glass Girl, strange technology is implanted in the brain of a scientist.

Shutterstock / MDV Edwards

city of womb Written by Toro Toro Tsamaase.The Handmaid’s Tale meet Get out? That’s quite a tall order, but this African-futuristic horror novel looks like it’ll be both fun and scary.? A cruel surveillance regime is in place, with Nella trapped in her loveless marriage, her every move monitored by microchip by her police officer husband. When she buries the body of a car accident, the ghosts of the victims begin to haunt her loved ones. Our science fiction columnist Sally Addy suggests this as something to be aware of.

13 Ways to Defeat Lulabel Rock Written by Maud Wolfe. This looks like a lot of fun. Set in the near future, celebrities can create clones of themselves (known as “portraits”) to take on various tasks. We are following 13 stories.th A copy of the actor Lurabel Rock, who is trying to eliminate his predecessor.

Ava Anna Ada Written by Ali Miller. This novel is set in the hot near future and depicts the events of a week in which Anna and Eva become trapped in their own world and reconsider who they really are. Ian Rankin explains it this way:[Philip K.] Dick’s They are This novel depicts the disintegration of a family in the near future and features early Ian Banks and Ian McEwan. The novel is “both frightening and fascinating” in every way.

clover Written by Karen Langston. Ten years after the death of her partner Neve, Ink finds that he has no concept of her past and can only think of her in the present tense. He seems to be in a new “crisis of memory loss”. But is this due to a broken code in Klova, an artificial language that allows anyone to think and speak?

necropolis alpha Written by Chris M. Arnone. This piece of cyberpunk science fiction is a sequel to Arnone’s novel. hermes protocol and follows a cybernetically enhanced “Intel operative” as he attempts to steal data from an evangelical preacher’s office.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Most Anticipated Scientific Breakthroughs of 2024 |BBC Science Focus Magazine

If 2023 is any indication, 2024 is poised to be a year of breakthroughs across all areas of science. From cutting-edge advances in artificial intelligence to revolutionary discoveries in health and space exploration, here’s a look at what to expect in science in 2024.

Things are looking up: Space in 2024

If all goes well, humans will return to the moon for the first time in 50 years in 2024. NASA’s Artemis II mission is scheduled to launch in late 2024 and will carry a crew of four, including the first woman and person of color to participate in a moon mission.

Additionally, NASA’s Plankton, Aerosols, Clouds, and Ocean Ecosystems (PACE) satellite mission is scheduled to launch early this year. It aims to collect data that will help scientists measure the health of Earth’s oceans.

The long-delayed debut of ESA’s Ariane 6 heavy-lift rocket is scheduled for mid-2024. And in October, NASA’s Europa Clipper will begin a journey to one of Jupiter’s icy moons to investigate the possibility of life.

Prior to that, the Jupiter Ice Moons Explorer (JUICE) spacecraft, launched by ESA in 2023 on a similar mission, is scheduled to perform its first Moon-Earth flyby a few months earlier, in August of this year.

Meanwhile, for those of us stuck on Earth, a total solar eclipse will hit Mexico, Canada, and the United States on April 8th, making it the last one to hit the continental United States until 2044.

This year also marks the bisection of Halley’s Comet’s 76-year orbit. This means that Halley’s Comet will reach its furthest point from Earth before beginning its return journey.

Artemis II (LR) Crew member and pilot of American astronaut Victor Glover. Reed Wiseman, Commander. Christina Hammock Koch, Mission Specialist. Canadian astronaut and mission specialist Jeremy Hansen (rear) poses with the Artemis II crew module. – Photo credit: Getty

New frontiers in health and medicine

Following the attention given to the weight-loss drug semaglutide in 2023, a phase 3 trial of a similar anti-diabetic drug, tirzepatide (Mounjaro), is expected to yield results towards the end of 2024.

Advances in CRISPR therapy are also expected after the gene editing tool was approved in the UK in November 2023 for the treatment of sickle cell disease and the blood disease beta-thalassemia. It is then expected to be approved in the United States by March 2024.

Transplant medicine also appears to be reaching new heights. In fact, biotech company EGenesis suggested earlier this year that gene-edited pig organs could be donated to human babies in need of transplants.

We also need to see how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve cancer diagnosis, test the effectiveness of new cancer treatments and drug combinations, and see the results of clinical trials of vaccines against HIV and malaria. be.

technology outlook

There has been a lot of speculation about OpenAI’s next project, and although nothing has been officially announced, an update to its Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) model is expected.

Generative AI will continue to find new applications in research and everyday life. The future technology for VR and gaming is shaping up to be interesting as tech giants pour resources into mixed reality.

This year, advances in fundamental areas of human life, from medicine to infrastructure, will be matched and enhanced by breakthroughs in robotics, smart materials, and eco-materials.

We expect more advanced robots that can perform microscopic operations inside the body, buildings that react to changing weather conditions, improved solar cells, and more. Some of these may be created with his 4D printer, which uses smart materials to create objects that can change shape.

Science in 2024: Culture

science fiction glasses

Movies in 2024 will be dominated by book adaptations, reboots, and sequels. alien to Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. But what really caught our eye is the sequel.

inside out 2 We are committed to tackling the mental health of teenagers, and our first work explored the minds of children. We also return to your question about extraterrestrial terraforming. Dune: Part 2.

Inside Head 2: Fear, Sadness, Anger, Joy, Disgust, Anxiety take on new challenges. – Photo credit: Alamy

game changer

AI will greatly enhance camera operations at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Facial recognition is prohibited, but AI surveillance can help detect abandoned items and suspicious activity in large groups.

artificial politics

In 2023, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman warned the U.S. Congress about the risks AI poses to politics, but amid a rise in political deepfakes, there are growing concerns about generative AI’s ability to mislead. Concerns are growing. Still, several important elections are scheduled to take place in 2024, including the US presidential election.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Upcoming Antimatter Science to Provide Insights into the Existence of All Living Beings

After years of extremely precise experiments, a group of researchers at CERN finally succeeded in creating and carefully capturing a sample of antihydrogen (the antimatter version of hydrogen) in September of this year. The sample was held in magnetic confinement to prevent it from hitting the walls of the container and quickly disappearing. The ALPHA-g experiment aimed to answer how antimatter behaves and revealed that it actually falls the same way that regular matter does.

Antimatter is known for generating high-energy radiation when it encounters normal matter, but contrary to popular belief, it has been shown to be less extreme than expected. For example, positrons, known as antielectrons, are exactly the same as electrons but with opposite charges and “parity.” Physicists had not experimentally confirmed that antimatter behaves the same way as regular matter until the ALPHA-g experiment.

Despite its violent tendencies, antimatter’s nature has raised questions about the definition and properties of matter in physics. The debate revolves around the conception of matter, where rest mass is the simplest definition. Matter encompasses various substances, atoms, molecules, protons, neutrons, electrons, quarks, and neutrinos. However, what constitutes matter becomes blurry when considering massless elementary particles and the contribution of energy to the mass of an object.

Exotic materials, like dark matter and negative mass materials, add complexity to the matter debate. The fact that matter and antimatter exist in unequal amounts, although not fully explained, has led to the formation of stars, galaxies, and planets. Antimatter experiments like ALPHA-g offer insight into matter’s nature and the existence of the universe.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Top Science Stories of 2023: A Year in Review

Breaking science news is always exciting, whether it’s an unexpected discovery or an answer to a question you didn’t know you were being asked. This is why we are sharing some of our favorite articles from the health, space, medical, and technology fields that made headlines in the past year.

How to have an optimal day, according to research published this year

Set the right temperature in your bedroom

The importance of sleep is evident, and studies have found that getting enough deep sleep influences various aspects of our lives. Research from Harvard Medical School suggests that older adults sleep most efficiently and restfully at temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius (60 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).

Enjoy a snooze to activate your brain

Another study has revealed that hitting the snooze button and spending an extra 30 minutes in sleep can lead to improved cognitive performance. In contrast to common belief, keeping secrets may also boost your energy levels, especially when it comes to sharing good news.

The strangest news of 2023

Scientists unleashed their creativity with annoying questions

Neuroscientists hit participants with rapid questions to test their brains’ creative abilities. Furthermore, a dwarf reeds snake was observed performing cartwheels, and researchers wrote an algorithm to generate the “ultimate swear word” that did not have any obscene connotations.

Medical advances this year

New technology has 'invaded' the brain

The use of ultrasound and bubbles to “Trojan horse” drugs across the blood-brain barrier could pave the way for Alzheimer’s disease treatments. There is also evidence that a father’s gene leads the fetus to demand more nutrients during pregnancy.

Fecal transplants begin in the UK

Initial trials are being conducted to utilize fecal transplants for removing super-drug-resistant bacteria from patients with liver disease. Additionally, research has pointed to the human body’s natural mechanisms to reverse biological aging.

Technology and Physics in 2023

ChatGPT-4 changed AI forever

AI chatbot GPT-4 has been upgraded to allow users to enter image prompts, making them less likely to produce false facts. This is in addition to a machine that can read your mind and AI software that generates lifelike virtual replicas.

An important theory of gravity has become a reality

The discovery of low-frequency gravitational waves and the mapping of the dark universe have furthered our understanding of dark energy and dark matter. Furthermore, India achieved a soft landing on the moon’s south pole in 2023.

Space Exploration 2023: Timeline

Various celestial alignments have boosted launch trajectories, leading to numerous fascinating discoveries, dramatic explosions, and sightings throughout the year. Some of these include the discovery of the oldest barred galaxies, the launch of the Jupiter Icy Moon Explorer (JUICE), and the first soft landing on the moon’s south pole by India. There have also been advancements in treating ecosystem loss and creating powerful antibiotics from honey.

Science news that cheered up the world this year

Indigenous soils and medicines have been celebrated this year, with indigenous soils such as “Dark Earth” helping climate-resilient forests grow faster, and honey from honeypot ants being used to create powerful antibiotics. Additionally, the successful uterus transplant of a woman born without a uterus offers hope for potential childbirth.

Source: https://www.example.com/news

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Reproduction of Eels: A BBC Science Focus

Approximately 15 species of eel live here. Eel family They are all long snake-shaped fish, most of which migrate between the ocean and inland freshwater at different times in their lives.

The most notable journey is carried out by the European eel. Anguilla Anguilla. Born in the Sargasso Sea in the central Atlantic Ocean. Hey, transparent larvae that look like leaves hatch. A small fish head is attached to it. They drift thousands of miles on Atlantic currents until they reach the shores of Eastern Europe, where they transform into young bootlace-sized fry known as glass eels or elvers.

They mature in shallow coastal waters and eventually change color into large yellow eels that migrate along rivers to lakes. Eels remain inland and freshwater for decades, before changing color again to become silver eels several meters long.

The golden eel is in the final stages of its life, taking on a daring mission to swim back decades into the Sargasso Sea. Only when they approach the spawning water do males and females mature and develop their reproductive organs.

For many years, the European eel’s epic life cycle remained an unproven theory. It was in 2022 that it became a reality. Scientists tracked golden eels to their spawning groundsThere, the female releases millions of eggs, which are fertilized externally by the male eel.

The next big question is what the future holds for eels. The number of glass eels reaching Europe’s coasts has plummeted by more than 95 percent in recent years, making the species critically endangered. They face many problems, including migratory routes blocked by dams and illegal trade in glass eels for breeding in farms.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

What Comes After? Exploring the Future – BBC Science Focus Magazine


The biggest questions in science

Experts answer the biggest questions facing humanity. For example, “Could we live on Mars?” Do pills really help you lose weight? Can technology save us from climate change? Will we ever cure cancer? Is it possible to stop the decline in cognitive function?

How to master your metabolism

Are you ready for a slimmer, healthier you? It's time for a metabolic transformation. By making a few simple, research-backed changes, you can significantly increase your body's calorie burn.

The best science images of 2023

A piece of rock shattered from an asteroid hurtling through space, the first human footprint in North America, and a giant meatball made from a woolly mammoth. These are just some of the images that caught our attention BBC Science Focus This year's editor, no, the last one was not a mistake. Enjoy our selection of incredible images as we rub our eyes in 2023.

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  • The best technology innovations of 2023: The desire to improve things drives innovation. We highlight some of the ground-breaking innovations announced last year that caught our attention as they took improvement to a whole new level.
  • Pain gap between men and women: The health care system is flawed and has dire consequences for women. Dr. Michelle Griffin looks at why women's pain is undertreated.
  • How modeling comet impacts can help find extraterrestrial life: A cosmic snowball in space may have delivered life-giving molecules to Earth.

Issue 400 will be released on December 29, 2023

don't forget that BBC Science Focus Also available on all major digital platforms. There is a version of android, Kindle Fire and Kindle e-readers, but also, iOS app For iPad and iPhone.

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Technology companies express concerns over potential “irreparable harm” due to White House-backed sales suspension of Apple Watch | Science and Technology News

Apple expressed concerns about potential “irreparable harm” after the White House backed a ban on imports of certain watches due to a dispute over blood oxygen technology.

The tech giant has submitted an emergency motion to the court, seeking permission to continue selling two popular models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, until the patent dispute with medical monitoring tech company Masimo is resolved.

Apple has requested the ban to be temporarily lifted until U.S. Customs determines whether a redesigned version of its watch infringes Masimo’s patents, with a decision expected on January 12th.

Masimo has accused Apple of stealing pulse oximetry technology for monitoring blood oxygen levels and incorporating it into their watch, as well as luring some of its employees to switch to Apple.

The US ITC has ordered a ban on the import and sale of models utilizing blood oxygen level reading technology.

Wealth management analyst Dan Ives stated that the halt in watch sales before the holiday season could cost Apple $300-400 million, but the company is still expected to make nearly $120 billion in sales for the quarter, including the holiday period.

Read more:
– Have an old iPhone? You could be entitled to compensation in a UK court case
– Apple updates iPhone 12 software after radiation test

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai upheld the ITC’s decision, but previously purchased Apple Watches with blood oxygen measurement capabilities are not affected by the ban.

Apple contests the ITC’s decision, claiming it is based on factual errors and that Masimo does not sell significant quantities of competing products in the U.S., and would not be harmed by a ban on orders.

Source: news.sky.com

15 Exciting Science Riddles to Enjoy Solving with Your Family

1. The most common form of aluminum ore, wild goat, a rectangular array of numbers and radiation with wavelengths from 0.01 to 10 nanometers. What do they all have in common, and why did they make the news this year?

2. Four guests will be seated for Christmas dinner. One came from a valley in Germany. One was good with tools, one was said to be intelligent, and the other wanted a chair with a strong backrest. Three people leave the table one by one. Who will sit last?

3. In 2028, abolitionists and the God of Fire will be joined by crystallographers. where are they?

4. It’s time to gather around the table and bond. First, what can you make from these interesting food combinations?

Sweet nougat + chestnut udon

Chipolatas + Flaming Eggnog

Chocolate unicorn + tangy nachos

Angel gingerbread + Asian plum

5. How about going for a brisk walk to relieve the fatigue of your Christmas meal? Along the way, you’ll see a big dog that’s not on a leash, a big bear that’s not in a cave, and a ring that’s inside. I see a bull that is not there. where are you looking?

6. Hark! The pressure between the ship and its surroundings quickly equalizes, creating a wonderful, festive vibration. What just happened?

7. After receiving the clutch Tsugumi Merulaa trio of Gallus gallus domesticus and some Streptoperia turtlewhere do you think you can find it? Perdix?

8. Chinese giant SkyEye only has one, but labs tend to have a few and Christmas dinners have many. what is that? …

Source: www.newscientist.com

“Latest NHS heartburn surgery gives men the freedom to indulge in holiday feasts” | Science and Technology Update

A man who suffered from heartburn so severe that he sometimes regurgitated his food has finally been cured with a “revolutionary” new surgical procedure.

Jeff Cohen had difficulty swallowing more than a sip or two because acid had been rising from his stomach for so long that the normal muscle contractions in his esophagus, or esophagus, were impaired.

He told Sky News that he had become uncomfortable eating, especially in public places.

“It was sitting there heavy in my chest like a blockage,” he said.

“But now I can eat without worrying. The food goes straight forward as usual.”

read more:
Turmeric may be as effective as indigestion medicine

image:
Jeff Cohen: “You’ll be able to eat whatever you want this Christmas”

Mr. Cohen was one of the first patients. NHS A device called RefluxStop must be implanted.

Surgeons at St Mary’s Hospital, part of Imperial College Healthcare, sewed a small cube of medical-grade silicone into the outer pouch of the stomach in a keyhole surgery that took just over an hour.

This device holds the stomach and esophagus in place so the muscle valves between them function properly to allow food to pass through and prevent acid from escaping.

Ahmed Ahmed, a consultant surgeon at the hospital, said the technology addresses the root cause of severe heartburn and acid reflux.

image:
Dr. Ahmed Ahmed said that for most reflux patients, “the valve that stops acid from entering the throat is in the wrong position.”

“The main problem for most reflux patients is that the valve that stops acid from entering the throat is in the wrong position.

“That’s what causes them to have regurgitation on a daily basis.

“The new procedure involves implanting an anti-reflux device to return the valve to its correct position and maintain its natural anatomy.”

Other surgical techniques constrict the floor of the esophagus to stop acid leaking from the stomach, but this can make swallowing more difficult, especially for patients like Jeff who have pre-existing problems. there is.

“For them, this [new procedure] It’s revolutionary because they will now be eligible for surgery,” said Ahmed.

Read more from Sky News:
Christmas vegetables that may help fight cancer
UK gears up for new internet traffic record

image:
Reflux stops hold the stomach and esophagus in place, allowing the muscle valves between them to function properly.

Around a quarter of adults in the UK suffer from heartburn, with overeating over the festive period being a common trigger.

According to NHS Digital, finally Christmas 1 person views online advice every 13 seconds.

Acid can cause symptoms that can lead to cancer, so you should see your doctor if your symptoms persist for more than 3 to 4 weeks.

Mild symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications that neutralize the acid. However, more severe cases may require prescription medication.

Dr Ahmed said surgery should now be considered as an alternative to lifelong drug treatment.

image:
Around a quarter of UK adults suffer from heartburn

Jeff is now looking forward to his first festive season in many years.

“You can eat whatever you want this Christmas,” he said.

“We’re going to have more pigs in a blanket for dinner than we could have last year.

“I’m able to carry on with my daily life, which I wasn’t able to do before.”

Source: news.sky.com

Research shows that individuals who are unable to burp may experience feelings of anxiety and depression | Latest Science and Technology Updates

A new study has found that people who are unable to burp due to a rare health condition feel more anxious, depressed and embarrassed.

Published on December 20th, the study was conducted by experts from around the world to investigate the social impact of retrograde cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction (R-CPD), also known as “inability to burp syndrome.”

R-CPD involves dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus muscle, which prevents the patient from relaxing enough to expel gas. It was first reported in 1987, but it wasn’t given an official name until 2019.

Out of the 199 people who participated in the study, 98% reported feeling bloated, 93% reported a “socially unpleasant rumbling sound,” 89% reported excessive flatulence, and 55% reported difficulty vomiting.

R-CPD patients often have to lie down or force themselves to vomit to relieve painful symptoms.

Although the condition can be treated by injecting Botox into the affected muscles, the treatment is not available on the NHS in the UK and must be carried out in private.

Researchers found that participants reported high levels of embarrassment, anxiety, and depression, which also negatively impacted their relationships and work lives.

Read more from Sky News:
There’s a risk of painful injuries in the bedroom this Christmas
Christmas vegetables that may help fight cancer

“R-CPD is a disease that is unfamiliar to many healthcare providers and leaves patients underserved. It affects not only their daily lives but also their personal and professional relationships. It will affect you.”

“Understanding and raising awareness of the basic characteristics of the disease has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment rates and improve quality of life.”

A spokesperson for NHS England said: “Clinical evidence for this condition is very limited due to the small number of people coming forward with the condition, but NHS staff have been advised by NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) to Establishing clinical advice, providing care and services appropriate to patients with specific conditions and needs.”

Source: news.sky.com

Millions at Risk Following ‘Super Saturday’ Scam: Science & Technology News Provides Tips

Millions of mobile phone users have been warned about possible text scams in the run-up to Christmas, reaching a peak today on what has been dubbed “Super Saturday.”

The BT-owned EE network says cybercriminals are trying to take advantage of the busy last-minute shopping season to carry out delivery-style scams that suggest packages are waiting to be dropped off or have been delayed. He said there is a possibility.

This technique tricks recipients into clicking a link that unknowingly installs malware (malicious software) or leads them to a phishing page designed to collect personal or financial data. There is likely to be.

EE said it had successfully blocked around 3 million SMS scams sent to customers’ mobile phones on this day last year.

The company expects to stop up to 5 million such scams this month. It also announced that it has blocked more than 45 million fraudulent texts so far in 2023.

EE said in a statement: “December’s most common SMS scams were delivery-related, as shoppers scrambled to organize their packages at the last minute in time for the holidays.”

“These include missed delivery or tracking text scams that prompt customers to click on a link that gives criminals the opening they need to steal consumer data and money.”

image:
Photo: Alamy

The company is urging consumers to be wary of scams, especially in the coming weeks, as the stress of preparing for the holidays can “impair your judgment and make you less alert.”

read more:
Booking.com customers warned of ‘well-designed scam’
Scammers’ tactics are becoming increasingly complex – here’s what to watch out for
UK launches charter to fight fraud, false advertising and romance scams

Johnny Bunt, director of regulation at BT Group’s consumer arm EE, said: “Super Saturday is set to be the busiest day of the year for mass retailers.”

“With deliveries piling up on doorsteps, scammers will be looking for ways to capitalize on the festive enthusiasm.

“As one of the UK’s front lines against SMS scam texts, we have a clear picture of the threat level here at BT and EE, and we have already seen an alarming spike in delivery fraud in particular.”

We’re sharing some tips to help you stay safe from scams.

• Never click on links in text from unknown sources.
• Trust your intuition. If something is questionable, there is probably a catch.
• Keep your device software up to date
• Never give out your bank account details, passwords, or security codes on linked websites.
• If you receive a call from your bank, consider calling back on the published number or using the 159 service.
• If someone calls you as scheduled, if in doubt, hang up and call back to a trusted number.
• If you receive a suspicious text, please forward the number and incident to 7726 toll-free for investigation by your mobile phone provider.
• Once reported, block the number and notify others about the scam to avoid falling victim to it.

Source: news.sky.com

Chinese AI Startup Profoundly Committed to Advancing Humanity through Science Looks to Expand into the US Market

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, many Chinese tech companies are recalibrating their overseas operations, often avoiding mention of their origins. A bold startup DP technology Stand out in the crowd. Working on the application of artificial intelligence to molecular simulations, DP (short for “Deep Potential”) believes that the collective power of “scientific research for humanity” will pave the way for its global expansion.

Founded in 2018 with renowned mathematician Weinan E as an advisor, DP provides a set of tools for performing scientific calculations. A process in which “computer simulations of mathematical models play an essential role in technology development and scientific research.” according to Definition by University of Waterloo. Areas that can benefit from scientific computing include: From biopharmaceutical research and automobile design to semiconductor development.

While the world is currently focused on using AI to generate text, images, and videos, DP is focusing on machine learning, which allows computers to automatically learn from the data they are given, and the real world. We found ourselves in a less developed field of combining molecular simulations for analysis. Products and systems via virtual models. Machine learning can be applied in combination to improve the speed and accuracy of simulations to solve problems in the physical world.

“Until now, in the absence of good computing or AI platforms, everyone relied on empirical trial and error. The process was often referred to as ‘cooking’ or ‘alchemy.'” DP CEO and founder Sun Weijie said in an interview with TechCrunch.

This approach was relatively effective in the early stages of industrial development, when user expectations for iteration were not very high, but now [technological] “It’s progress,” he continued. “For example, consumers expect increased battery capacity every year and performance improvements with each new generation of vehicles. Traditional R&D models can no longer withstand these rapid market changes. you can’t.”

“Meeting the expectations of these rapid iterations will require breakthrough advances in research and development approaches,” he added.

To this end, DP has devised a software suite to help industry players discover and develop new products more efficiently. One is that we run a scientific computing platform that allows us to simulate physical properties such as magnetism, optics, and electricity. As a result of running these models, materials such as semiconductors and batteries can be designed faster and cheaper. He also operates his SaaS platform focused on preclinical research for drug discovery.

DP goes one step further by not only supplying software to industrial researchers and designers, but by selling services tailored to their needs and carrying out research and development processes for customers who cannot fully exploit the potential of their tools. I’m here.

This combination of SaaS and services business model has proven some early success in China. DP is expected to win contracts worth around 100 million yuan ($14 million) in 2023, up from “tens of millions of yuan” last year. The company is now preparing to bring that strategy to Western markets, where deep-pocketed giants like DeepMind dominate the space.

“There’s an old saying in China: ‘Children from poor families grow up early.’ We’re the poor kids compared to the likes of DeepMind and OpenAI because we have much less money on hand.” Sun said.

To date, the DP has focused on the following issues: $140 million Selected from a lineup of top Chinese VC firms, including Qiming Venture Partners and Hillhouse Ventures. For reference, 13-year-old DeepMind was acquired by Google in 2014 for over $500 million. The London-based AI giant made a whopping £477 million ($650 million) in 2020, reporting a profit of £44 million ($60 million). ) losses in 2019.

Sun claimed that despite having its physical headquarters in Beijing, DP was conceived with a global mindset thanks to the open source scientific and technical computing community it founded. deep modeling. Early stops in China were also more accidental than intentional. “Since international exchange has stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we decided to stop and work on monetization.” [in China] “For the first two years,” Sun said.

DP’s international expansion begins in the United States, where it opens offices and works with partners to market its products and services. The startup, which is looking to establish a presence in new markets, is looking to boost its reputation by leveraging the open source community and participating in what Sun describes as a relatively “close-knit” basic research exhibition. There is.

On the other hand, the DP’s international ambitions may run into obstacles from the ongoing decoupling that divides the United States and China in many areas, including scientific research. For example, back in August, Biden administration stretched narrowly The scientific partnership has underpinned U.S.-China relations since 1979.

But Sun exuded confidence in science’s resilience in the face of geopolitical complexity. “Both the fields of basic science and biopharmaceuticals are shared by all of humanity and are relatively open and inclusive. Relatively speaking, I think these regions are doing okay,” he said.

Source: techcrunch.com

The Newest Developments in Science and Technology: Forecasting 2023

agio type

In 2020, michael snyderGeneticists at Stanford University in California have discovered that we tend to age along four different pathways. He said that the biological characteristics associated with aging are mainly found in four parts of the body (kidneys, liver, immune system, and general metabolism), and that of these systems one or two We found that it ages faster than the rest of the systems.

Snyder believes that understanding your “age type” can guide you to optimal strategies to target key aging pathways, helping you live longer, healthier lives. People with liver disease may consider quitting drinking, he said. On the other hand, people of metabolic age should focus on exercise.

In any case, one might expect the term to become popular, at least in circles obsessed with it, because it pioneers efforts to personalize anti-aging interventions. I don’t know.

agrivoltaics

Next time you’re walking through the countryside, you might come across a field that looks a bit unusual. Some areas may grow crops that coexist with large areas of solar panels, while others may have livestock sheltering or grazing under solar canopies. What you are looking at is “agrivoltaics”. This is the term used to describe solar energy facilities designed to work with crops and livestock.

Inevitably, some argue that solar power degrades the landscape and changes the nature of rural areas. But in North America, agrivoltaic proponents are working to convince people that solar power can help restore disappearing grasslands. In any case, the term is sure to stick around because it captures something new…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring the Future of Materials Science: A Innovative Twist

When a strong laser pulse hits a steel alloy, the material briefly melts where it is irradiated, forming a small magnetic region.Credit: HZDR / Sander Munster

The research team has shown that ultrashort laser pulses can magnetize iron alloys. This discovery has great potential for applications in magnetic sensor technology, data storage, and spintronics.

To magnetize a steel nail, simply stroke its surface several times with a bar magnet. But there is a more unusual method. it is, Helmholtz – Zentrum Dresden – Rossendorf (HZDR) Some time ago, a certain iron was discovered. alloy It can be magnetized with ultrashort laser pulses. The researchers are currently working with the Laser Institute of Mitweida University (LHM) to further investigate this process. They found that this phenomenon also occurs in different classes of materials. This greatly expands the range of potential applications.The working group will publish its results in a scientific journal Advanced functional materials.

Groundbreaking discovery in magnetization

An unexpected discovery was made in 2018. When the HZDR team bombarded a thin layer of iron and aluminum alloy with ultrashort laser pulses, the nonmagnetic material suddenly became magnetic. Explanation: Laser pulses rearrange the atoms in the crystal so that the iron atoms are closer to each other, forming a magnet. The researchers were then able to demagnetize the layer again using a series of weaker laser pulses. This allowed them to discover how to create and erase tiny “magnetic spots” on surfaces.

However, the pilot experiment still left some questions unanswered. “It was unclear whether the effect only occurs in iron-aluminum alloys or in other materials,” explains HZDR physicist Dr. Rantei Bali. “We also wanted to track the process over time.” For further investigation, he collaborated with his Dr. Theo Pflug at LHM and colleagues at the University of Zaragoza in Spain.

Flipbook using laser pulse

Experts especially focused on iron-vanadium alloys. Unlike iron-aluminum alloys, which have a regular crystal lattice, the atoms in iron-vanadium alloys are more randomly arranged, forming an amorphous glass-like structure. To observe what happens during laser irradiation, physicists used a special method called the pump-probe method.

“First, we bombard the alloy with powerful laser pulses to magnetize the material,” explains Theo Pflug. “At the same time, he uses a second, weaker pulse that is reflected off the material surface.”

Analysis of reflected laser pulses reveals the physical properties of the material. This process is repeated several times to continually lengthen the time interval between the first “pump” pulse and subsequent “probe” pulses.

As a result, time-series reflection data are obtained, which can characterize the processes induced by laser excitation. “The whole procedure is similar to creating a flipbook,” he says Pflug. “Similarly, a series of individual images that animate when viewed in succession.”

rapid dissolution

Results: Although they have a different atomic structure than iron-aluminum compounds, iron-vanadium alloys can also be magnetized by lasers. “In both cases, the material melts for a short time at the point of irradiation,” he explains Rantej Bali. “This causes the laser to erase the previous structure and create small magnetic regions in both alloys.”

Promising results: Apparently, this phenomenon is not limited to a particular material structure and can be observed in a variety of atomic arrangements.

The team also tracks the temporal dynamics of the process. “At least we know on what time scale something will happen,” explains Theo Pflug. “Within femtoseconds, a laser pulse excites electrons in the material. After a few picoseconds, the excited electrons transfer their energy to the nucleus.”

Consequently, this energy transfer causes a rearrangement into a magnetic structure, which is then stabilized by rapid cooling. In follow-up experiments, the researchers aim to observe exactly how the atoms rearrange by examining the magnetization process with powerful X-rays.

Perspectives towards applications

Although still in its early stages, this research already provides a first idea of possible applications. For example, one could place small magnets on the chip surface via a laser. “This could be useful in producing highly sensitive magnetic sensors such as those used in vehicles,” he speculates Rantej Bali. “It could also have applications in magnetic data storage.”

Moreover, this phenomenon seems to be related to a new type of electronics: spintronics. Here, instead of electrons passing through transistors as usual, magnetic signals must be used for digital computing processes, providing a possible approach to future computer technology.

Reference: “Laser-Induced Positional and Chemical Lattice Reordering Generating Ferromagnetism” by Theo Pflug, Javier Pablo-Navarro, Md. Chabad Anwar, Markus Olbrich, César Magén, Manuel Ricardo Ibarra, Kay Potzger, Jürgen Faßbender, Jürgen Lindner, Alexander Horn. Lantei Bali, November 21, 2023, Advanced functional materials.
DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202311951

Source: scitechdaily.com

Top 12 Science Documentaries of 2023: Streaming Now on Netflix, BBC, Apple, and More

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Michael J. Fox appears in documentary ‘Still’ about living with Parkinson’s disease (BBC i player)

This big-budget series from David Attenborough and the BBC Studios Natural History Unit takes a closer look at the flora and fauna of Britain and Ireland. The sex lives of the fighting sage-grouse and the grey-black slug are two of his highlights. (BBC i player)

In 2016, 10-year-old Maya Kowalski was hospitalized after complaining of severe pain. The tragedy that followed revealed the flaws in American hospitals. Please take care of Maya (Netflix)

each episode of earth From the worst mass extinction in history to the emergence of humanity, it delves deep into Earth’s history and is packed with cutting-edge scientific research. A still image from Earth of Prototaxitides, an 8-metre-tall fungus that towered over plants 430 million years ago. (BBC i player)

Michael J. Fox is best known as the star of back to the future He was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease at just 29 years old. His documentary about living with this disease is moving, but not strange. Still: Michael J. Fox movies (Apple TV+)

This addictive and interesting series from mathematician Hannah Fry returns in 2023 to teach you all about the innovations that power our everyday lives, from passports to vacuum cleaners. Hannah Fry’s “An Addictive and Interesting ‘Secret Genius of Modern Life'”BBC Studio / Marco Cervi

The world of emergency medicine can be difficult to navigate, but this unflinching documentary about New York’s frontline medical workers is a must-see. emergency new york city (Netflix)

Another work by David Attenborough, this beautiful animated series explores the weirder, wilder side of dinosaurs and their dinosaur contemporaries. With a focus on recreating the atmosphere of classic nature documentaries, you’ll feel like you’re actually living in a prehistoric world. Prehistoric Planet II (Apple TV+)

48 million people in the United States get food poisoning each year. This documentary highlights the industries that are fueling the spread of the virus, revealing shocking facts. Poisoned: The dirty truth about food (Netflix)

Ella Glendining, who was born with no hips and short femurs, had never met anyone with her rare condition. The community she finds highlights the discrimination she faces elsewhere in her life. Ella Glendining in the documentary “Is There Anybody Out There?” (BFI player)

When it comes to mainstream nature documentaries, few are bold enough to explicitly connect the natural beauty of our planet with the threat of climate change it faces. our planet II It’s a refreshing departure. our planet II (Netflix)

Only one episode, color of the universe, a seven-part series about NASA’s black astronauts, has been released and is already a highlight of the new streaming service NASA+. Episode 1 tells the story of Charlie Bolden, the first black administrator at NASA. color of the universe (NASA+ and YouTube)

This eclectic four-part series explores drone warfare, the James Webb Space Telescope, homo naledi And ancient necropolises are perfect for mystery fans looking for variety. unknown (Netflix)

“`

Source: www.newscientist.com

Fra Mauro: Transforming Cartography into a Science with the Epic Medieval Map

Fra Mauro’s beautiful and intricate world map

History_docu_photo/Alamy

When I was in Venice a few years ago, I visited the Corer Museum to absorb the history of the city. Located in St. Mark’s Square, this museum features imposing statues and paintings of naval battles and ancient weapons. However, as I passed the last exhibition room, another artifact caught my eye, hanging alone in an alcove. It was a map of the world, or “mappa mundi” in Latin, and it was unlike any other map I had ever come across.

The world depicted here in an 8-foot-diameter gold frame is a combination of lapping blue ocean and off-white land, all covered in handwritten notes. It was one of the most beautiful, beautifully intricate things I’ve ever seen.

Created 550 years ago by a monk called Fra Mauro, the map was largely ignored for centuries, but it shows a level of accuracy not present in previous maps. Considering this, it is a deplorable situation. If you turn it upside down, you can recognize it as a map of Africa and Eurasia, with Mauro placed south at the top.

After visiting Venice, I decided to find out more about this map. This project culminated in my book. The dark sea begins here. I spent over a year researching his literature on world maps, poring over Mauro’s creations, and trying to understand what he was trying to say. It turned out to be part of the inflection point from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Proliferation of Fake AI Images Persists – 8 Notable Examples | Science & Technology Updates

Fact-checkers highlighted some notorious examples of AI-generated images that went viral this year, such as Prince William and Prince Harry embracing at the royal coronation.

Midjourney OpenAIWith DALL-E 3, you can now create realistic images faster and easier than ever using only text prompts.

While being a proponent of the technology known as generative; artificial intelligence,please tell me can empower artistsleading to concerns. Possibility of spreading false information.

Charity Full Fact has selected eight examples from 2023 that have been shared thousands of times.

They have since been marked as AI-generated or removed by social media platforms.

Prince William and Prince Harry reunite

Slideshow of 8 images showing prince of wales and the Duke of Sussex king’s coronation spread widely to Facebookover 78,000 likes!

In one of the photos, they appear to be hugging each other with teary eyes, but none of the photos are real.

According to a Full Fact investigation, these photos were originally published in a blog post in which the author explained how to use Midjourney’s image generator to “imagine a heartfelt reconciliation” between two people.

Julian Assange goes to prison

Photo of WikiLeaks founder The scenes at Belmarsh Prison were created using Midjourney.

The creator confirmed as much in an interview with Germany’s Bild newspaper, but not until the image was shared on Facebook and reposted 29,000 times. X.

Donald Trump’s portrait

Before the former US president posted a photo of his real face on Xmany fake versions were circulating.

Some of them have been viewed more than a million times, even though the jumble of letters behind him is a major feature. AI generators often have a hard time recreating text within images.

Mr Trump He had previously been the subject of an AI-generated image that appeared to show the moment of his arrest.

President Emmanuel Macron during the French riots

meanwhile riots in franceThe photo of has become a hot topic Emmanuel Macron He was sitting in the street as garbage burned behind him.

The image was widely shared, with one post garnering more than 55,000 views and comments suggesting the media was ignoring the story, according to Full Fact.

Pope Francis’ large audience

Photo of pope His speech to a large crowd in Lisbon was viewed tens of thousands of times on social media.

But a closer look revealed that it wasn’t real. One hand of the Pope had three fingers.

It comes months after an eerily convincing AI image of the Pope wearing a down jacket went viral.

Elon Musk’s “Robot Wife”

SpaceX Billionaire He makes no secret of his desire to create humanoid robots.but not “The Robot Wife.”

A post featuring an image of him kissing one such model was created by a digital artist and shared on Facebook and X.

Titanic submarine wreckage

While searching for titan submersibleMidjourney was used to create an image purporting to show debris.

It showed a game controller floating in the water, with the caption: “Breaking news: Exploded Titanic submarine controller found floating near the surface.”

The submarine is controlled using a modified controller and has been reported to have been sighted over 300,000 times on the X.

Rishi Sunak’s Bad Pint

image:
Image posted by Karl Turner MP (L) and original photo posted to Number 10’s Flickr account (R)

critic of prime minister The shot of him pouring out bad beer was an example of how he was portrayed as an out-of-touch person.

This image is a compilation of photos from the beer festival in August. Pint’s appearance worsened and onlookers looked confused.

It received over 78,000 views on X. The fact that Labor MP Karl Turner shared it also didn’t help.

Full Fact said the government and regulator Ofcom must prioritize public media literacy ahead of the next election, helping them recognize fake images and question what they see online. Ta.

Chief Executive Chris Morris added: “Failure to take action risks reducing people’s trust in what they see online. This risks undermining democracy, particularly during elections. Yes,” he added.

Source: news.sky.com

Tesla Announces Recall of Over 2 Million Cars in the US Due to Autopilot Safety Concerns | Science and Technology Update

Tesla is recalling more than 2 million vehicles in the United States over concerns about its advanced driver assistance system, Autopilot.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said the system’s methods of determining whether drivers are paying attention may be inadequate and could lead to “foreseeable abuse of the system.”

NHTSA is investigating Elon Musk’s Over two years, the company has suffered a series of crashes, some fatal, that occurred while using the Autopilot system.

tesla He said Autopilot’s software system controls “may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse” and could increase the risk of a crash.

Tesla’s Autopilot is intended to allow the car to automatically steer, accelerate, and brake within the line, but while the enhanced Autopilot can assist with lane changes on the highway, self-driving It won’t be.

Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player


From August: Tesla car catches fire ‘spontaneously’ at scrapyard

One of the Autopilot components is Autosteer, which maintains a set speed or following distance and works to keep the vehicle within its lane of travel.

Tesla disagrees with NHTSA’s analysis, but notes that “additional controls and warnings already exist in affected vehicles to further encourage drivers to comply with ongoing driving responsibilities each time Autosteer engages.” “We will deploy an over-the-air software update that incorporates this.” “I’m engaged.”

The update says it includes increased prominence of visual alerts on the user interface, easier activation and deactivation of Autosteer, and additional checks when Autosteer is activated.

Tesla added that the update will eventually result in a driver’s use of Autosteer being suspended if the driver “repeatedly fails to demonstrate continued and sustained driving responsibility while the feature is activated.” .

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The recall applies to models Y, S, 3, and X produced between October 5, 2012 and December 7 of this year.

The update was expected to be sent to some affected vehicles on Tuesday, with the remaining vehicles sent out later.

NHTSA will continue its investigation into Autopilot “to monitor the effectiveness of Tesla’s remedies,” the agency said.

Since 2016, regulators have investigated 35 Tesla crashes in which the vehicles were suspected of being driven on automated systems. At least 17 people were killed in the clashes.

It is unclear whether this recall affects Tesla vehicles in other countries, including the UK.

This is the second time this year Tesla recalls its vehicles In the United States.

Source: news.sky.com

Ofcom investigates TikTok for lack of parental control information | Science and Technology News


Ofcom has initiated an inquiry into TikTok to determine if it provided false information about parental controls.

The UK’s media regulator has requested details from Chinese-owned apps and other online video platforms like Snapchat, to report on measures taken to protect children.

While they were generally commended for their efforts, Ofcom stated that it had “reasons to believe” that TikTok provided “inaccurate” information about the family pairing system.

This feature allows adults to link their account to their child’s account and control settings such as screen time limits.

Ofcom will now investigate whether the company “failed in its obligations” by not taking appropriate action.

TikTok attributed the issue to a technical problem, and Ofcom said it is aware and will provide the necessary data.

A spokesperson mentioned that the platform enforces an age requirement of 13 years and that the report notes the platform’s significant effort and resources in locating and removing underage users.

Ofcom’s report is the first in two years following guidance on video sharing apps about how to protect young users from encountering harmful content.

YouTube and Facebook were not covered in the report as they fall under Irish jurisdiction, a result of EU rules that the UK continues to follow, despite leaving the EU gradually through the online safety bill.

An Ofcom report published on Thursday found that TikTok, Snapchat, and Twitch all met the requirements set out two years ago.

All three platforms categorize and label content to ensure it is age-appropriate.

However, while Snapchat and TikTok offer parental controls, Twitch requires parents to supervise their children in real time as per its terms of service.

Ofcom stated that although steps were being taken to protect young users, “victims can still be victimized while using these platforms”.

Source: news.sky.com

Pope Francis advocates for global oversight of artificial intelligence | Science and Technology

Pope Francis has voiced support behind calls for regulation of AI.

pope With the annual World Peace Day message, artificial intelligence Safely developed and ethically used.

He warned that the technology lacks human values ​​such as compassion and morality, and could blur the line between what is real and what is fake.

The Pope should know, considering he was the subject of some of the most infamous AI-generated images of 2023.

In March, he was photographed wearing a stylish down jacket, leaving social media in awe.

This surreal image created using the AI ​​tool Midjourney was certainly too good to be true.

how Chat GPT Generating text content allows users to request images using a simple prompt.

The fake photo originated on Reddit and was shared tens of millions of times on social media, fooling people, including celebrities, and becoming one of the first major examples of AI-powered misinformation at scale.

This week: British charity Full Fact highlighted another false image of FranciscoThe photo showed him addressing a large crowd in Lisbon earlier this year.

image:
AI-generated image of the Pope addressing a crowd in Lisbon, Portugal.Photo: Complete Facts

Pope shares his biggest concerns about AI

Cardinal Michael Czerny, director of the Vatican Development Authority, shared the pope’s concerns in a written statement.

“The biggest risk is dialogue,” he said.

“Because without truth there can be no dialogue, and without responsibility there can be no truth.”

The Pope said the regulatory priorities are to prevent disinformation, discrimination and distortion, promote peace and guarantee human rights.

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His intervention was a few days later. EU reaches agreement on how to regulate AIwhich covers generation tools such as Midjourney and ChatGPT, but will not come into effect until 2025 at the earliest.

joe biden us president The White House announced its own proposal in OctoberThis included the possibility of requiring AI-generated content to be watermarked.

In Britain, the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak They are becoming more cautious about AI laws, arguing they risk stifling innovation.

Source: news.sky.com

Naughty Dog, the developer of ‘The Last of Us,’ cancels their next game: Science and Technology Update

The next game in the popular “The Last Of Us” series has been cancelled.

Developer Naughty Dog said it had made an “incredibly difficult decision”, recognizing that the scope of the project would negatively impact other future titles.

The studio said in a blog post that it knows “this news will be tough” for fans and added that they are “equally devastated.”

Unlike previous releases, playstation The studio is known for single-player, story-driven blockbusters, but the canceled game was an online multiplayer experience.

Similar to titles like call of duty and fortnite updated regularly to keep players coming back.

Naughty Dog said it is “enthusiastic about the direction” of the project, but that supporting it post-launch risks “significantly impacting the development of future single-player games.”

It said such a game, such indiana jones-Like the Uncharted series, it “defined the Naughty Dog tradition.”

A studio committed to single-player roots

The studio has dabbled in multiplayer in the past, but only as an additional play mode.

First released in 2013, The Last Of Us had a popular online experience called Factions that pitted players against each other in competitive shooting matches.

It was also slated to be part of 2020’s The Last Of Us: Part II before Naughty Dog decided to spin it off and release it as a separate release, but it’s now canned .

“I’m extremely proud of everyone at the studio who worked on this project,” the blog post added.

“The technology learnings and investments from this game will be reflected in our project development and will be invaluable in the direction we are heading as a studio.”

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What’s next?

Naughty Dog’s next release is the PlayStation 5 re-release of The Last Of Us: Part II, scheduled for January.

The company’s games have been well-received by critics, but the company has released three versions of the original between 2013 and 2022, and has been criticized for milking the post-apocalypse Zombies series.

There is no doubt that they are trying to capitalize on the popularity of . HBO TV animationarrived earlier this year.

But the company’s blog post said it was also developing “several ambitious, ally-new single-player games.”

Source: news.sky.com

“Handheld Devices: More Popular than Ever as Christmas Gifts” – Science and Technology Update

Twenty-five years ago, Nintendo’s Game Boy Color was at the top of the Christmas list for many. This iconic mobile device, launched in November 1998, featured classic games like Pokemon, Super Mario Land, and Tetris, and became one of the most successful gaming consoles ever created, with approximately 120 million units sold.

Although the rise of smartphones and games like Candy Crush temporarily overshadowed portable gaming devices, dedicated fans continued to be drawn to the power of consoles and PCs. However, it seems that the mobile device market is healthier than ever this Christmas season.

Nintendo’s Switch, which was released about seven years ago, continues to sell well, with sales exceeding 130 million copies. Inspired by the success of the Switch, Valve released the Steam Deck, a portable gaming device that allows games that were once exclusive to consoles and computers to be taken on the go. Valve has also announced a new model for the Christmas sales season, the Deck OLED, which boasts a better screen, battery life, and lightweight construction.

This handheld gaming craze has expanded beyond Switches and decks to include rivals such as the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. According to engineer Lawrence Yang, this marks the beginning of a new handheld game console category, where the line between games played at home and games played on the go is blurring.

In addition to these advancements, cloud gaming services like Google Stadia, and streaming services such as Netflix are also making it easier for gamers to access their favorite titles from anywhere.

Leading console makers Sony and Microsoft are also paying attention to the increasingly popular handheld gaming trend, with Sony launching the Playstation Portal and Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass becoming more accessible. Additionally, services like Antstream are offering over 1,400 retro titles available on multiple platforms.

It’s clear that the convenience and accessibility of handheld gaming devices are appealing to many, making it possible to play games on the go without compromising on graphics or gameplay.

Source: news.sky.com

Top Science News of 2023: New Scientist’s Selections




Space News Highlights of 2023

Spiral galaxy M51 seen with the James Webb Space Telescope

ESA/Webb, NASA, and CSA, A. Adamo (Stockholm University)/FEAST JWST Team

From extreme heat to stunning space footage, new scientist covers a wide range of the biggest developments, discoveries and events in science, technology, health and the environment in 2023. Here we summarize some of the best news of the year.

Environment

In July 2023, a forest fire broke out on the Greek island of Rhodes. Angelos Tsolzinis/AFP via Getty Images

The number of heat records broken in 2023 is staggering. We won’t know for sure until next month’s official statistics are released, but there is little doubt that this year was the hottest on record. As a sign that abnormal temperatures continue, new scientist We already reported on this possibility in mid-June, long before summer in the northern hemisphere was in full swing. A few weeks later, a particularly surreal series of events occurred. The average global temperature, which is recorded 2 meters above the Earth’s surface and is basically a way to measure global temperatures, hit an all-time high on July 3rd, which was 7. It was quickly broken on the 4th of May, and then the record was broken on the 5th. July came and the next day it broke again. By the end of August, it was the hottest three months on record, followed by the hottest September on record. In November, researchers announced the hottest 12 months on record. Against this backdrop, negotiations at the COP28 climate change summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, were extremely difficult. A key point of disagreement was whether the world would finally take action against fossil fuels, and at one point it looked like the summit might collapse. Ultimately, the world agreed to begin a “transition” away from fossil fuels, but this was the first time fossil fuels were mentioned in a COP document, although what that actually meant was unclear. Many questions remain.

Health

Demand for weight loss drug Wegoby will surge in 2023 Carsten Snejbjerg/Bloomberg via Getty Images

This year’s demand for Wigovy, a weight-loss formulation of semaglutide, has been like no other drug in history. In addition to being incredibly effective for weight loss, early trials this year showed it may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes and may even help treat addiction. Despite some moralizing about “quick cures” for obesity, and despite drug shortages and difficulty in obtaining them, it is clear that a health revolution has begun. This past year also marked the first time since 2019 that Covid-19 was not on everyone’s mind. The World Health Organization’s announcement on May 5 that the viral disease is no longer a public health emergency means, in a sense, the coronavirus pandemic is over, at least for some people. Millions of people are still experiencing long-term symptoms of COVID-19, which are still poorly understood.

Artificial Intelligence

London writers hold rally in solidarity with striking US screenwriters to protect their jobs from AI Vuk Valcic / Alamy Stock Photo

Roughly counting, new scientist has published around 150 articles on artificial intelligence this year. Tech companies were competing against each other, with OpenAI claiming “human-level performance” for its GPT-4 large-scale language model and Google claiming its Gemini model was even better. There have been concerns about the rise of misinformation through AI, from images of the Pope in a down jacket to the risk of bias feedback loops to attempts to detect AI-generated text. AI has also been the subject of high-level discussions across politics and business. This led to a major stalemate in the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strike, but in November world leaders, researchers and businessmen gathered at Bletchley Park in the UK to sign a declaration on the risks of new technologies. Indeed, this year was the year that AI became mainstream.

Space

The dense center of the Milky Way seen with the James Webb Space Telescope NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Samuel Crow (UVA)

This year’s biggest space mission is also the cheapest, with India’s low-budget Chandrayaan-3 moon landing costing just £60 million. India’s success makes it the fourth country to safely land on the moon, after the United States, the Soviet Union, and China. It also happened just days after a Russian spacecraft crash-landed on the moon in a bid to restore it to its Soviet-era glory. Further out in space, the James Webb Space Telescope continues to shine, providing stunning images and advancing our understanding of the universe, from the fastest-growing galaxies to the most distant black holes ever seen.


Source: www.newscientist.com

In Orbit Aerospace Aims to Expand as a Third-Party Logistics Provider for Science and Industry

Space startup in its second year of establishment orbital aerospace The company wants to become a third-party logistics provider for commerce from Earth to space. And to get there, the company just signed a new contract to validate key technical capabilities of the International Space Station.

The El Segundo, California-based company develops orbital platforms and reentry vehicles that enable mass manufacturing and research in space. In Orbit’s plans are more than a little ambitious. The idea is to host customer factories and laboratories on an orbital platform. An unmanned reentry vehicle would autonomously dock and rendezvous with the platform, and robotic systems would transfer manufactured materials to the vehicle, which would then return the products to Earth.

“Automation and robotics are the backbone of industrial production on the planet,” CEO Ryan Elliott said in a statement. “It should be no different in space.”

It’s a mistake to think that In Orbit is trying to compete with space manufacturing companies like Varda Space and Space Forge, Elliott said in a recent interview. “Their customers and our customers are fundamentally different,” he said. “We handle logistics, on-orbit hosting, [but] We don’t manufacture the materials ourselves. ”

Elliott and his two co-founders, Antonio Coelho and Ishaan Patel, have been driving this effort for just over two years. The company has raised about $2 million to date, and the team is currently raising money to support a demonstration mission in mid-to-late 2026.

For its first mission, the company will work with a satellite bus provider that will host an orbital platform and a subscale version of the reentry rocket. If all goes as planned, the mission will demonstrate transporting material from a host platform to an atmospheric reentry vehicle and back to Earth.

In Orbit has a huge amount of work ahead of it. The company must ensure rendezvous and docking, cargo transfer between the two spacecraft, and reentry processes. Elliott said rendezvous, docking and reentry were particularly challenging.

“There’s so much commercial hardware out there for parachute and heat shield suppliers,” he said. “Simulation and testing are also very difficult. You can’t test reentry in all the different environmental parameters on Earth. The only way to do it is through flight testing.”

The new contract with NASA is part of the company’s efforts to minimize these risks. Under the new Space Law Agreement, In Orbit is partnering with Nanoracks to demonstrate autonomous docking and robotic transport in a zero-gravity environment. Nanoracks, now owned by Voyager Space, has had a commercial presence on the ISS for many years and frequently provides support to newcomers looking to take advantage of the ISS National Laboratory. In-orbit testing will occur in mid-to-late 2025 at the earliest, Elliott said.

On a longer-term scale, In Orbit aims to launch a second mission in 2026 and then partner with a spacecraft provider to set up a manufacturing lab in orbit. The ultimate goal is simply to leave the hardware in space and launch a reentry capsule that rendezvous with and docks with an orbiting platform.

In Orbit expects its core customers to be manufacturers who want to outsource Orbit hosting. Those customers might work with, for example, pharmaceutical or semiconductor companies looking to manufacture products in space.

“The percentage of people who want to manufacture things in space is increasing exponentially,” Elliott said. “There’s a lot of hype around it. NASA is putting more money into it. The Department of Defense is very interested. There’s just more to come.”

Source: techcrunch.com

Eastern China’s Rare Black Hedgehog Becomes a New Science Enthusiast

This new species of hedgehog has darker brown fur, spines, and slightly larger ears than the European hedgehog.

Zookey

Scientists have identified a new species of hedgehog. It is a dark brown creature that lives in the forests of eastern China.

In 2018, Kai He Researchers from Guangzhou University in China encountered strange-looking hedgehogs in Anhui and Zhejiang provinces. Compared to the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), these had dark brown fur and spines, and slightly larger ears.

After analyzing seven animals, including DNA samples, the researchers concluded that they belonged to a species that had not previously been described scientifically, which they named the species. Mesechinus orientalis.

The other four known species are mesechinus This genus is mainly found in northern China, Mongolia, and Russia, but this species M. Hugi I live in southwestern China.

“It is very interesting that this forest hedgehog was found more than 1000 kilometers from its known range,” he says.

They weigh just under 340 grams and have an average length of 18.8 centimeters. M. orientalis It is slightly smaller than other known hedgehogs of its genus.

Like other hedgehogs, M. orientalis They are nocturnal and tend to feed on insects and fruits. They also hibernate in the winter.

So far, the team has discovered M. orientalis In two provinces of China. However, based on the numbers recorded so far, they are not considered endangered, He said, estimating there are probably a few hundred individuals in these states. are doing.

There were only 17 known species of hedgehogs in the world, so “we were really happy to add one more species,” he says.

“For a real hedgehog geek like me, this is amazing news,” he says. Sophie Rand Rasmussen at Oxford University. “We look forward to learning more about the ecology of this species and whether this is different compared to other hedgehog species in the country.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Deep Tech: Moving Beyond Science Fiction

These industries lead the way

After reaching the height, hit an all-time high in 2021, but startup exits hit an all-time low over the past 12 months as interest rates soared, access to cheap capital decreased, and cash opportunities dried up. . Total exits for U.S. companies and venture capital investors in the first half of 2023 were the lowest in nearly 15 years. According to PitchBook data.

However, in Q3 we saw some light at the end of the tunnel with PE/VC reaching the exit in August. Highest price in the last 22 months. Perhaps surprisingly, deep tech companies, which I define as companies leveraging new technologies, or engineering-driven innovation, contributed to the initial slow recovery of companies new to the field. are doing.See Crunch Base Billion dollar startup exits By 2023, a quarter of the 16 exiting unicorns will be deep tech companies. This comes as no surprise to our team, given the huge number of deep tech unicorns that have been born over the past few years. In 2021, we compiled a list A study of deep tech companies valued at over $1 billion found that 120 deep tech unicorns have already generated nearly $5 trillion in value.

Many earth-changing deep technology solutions are being commercialized, and the number and scale of successful exits continues to increase.

However, for those who do not closely follow the deep tech space on a daily basis, it is likely that they still believe that it is impossible to build a deep tech unicorn and that there are only a handful of opportunities to exit deep tech each year. there is. But the truth is, deep technology innovation is no longer science fiction or research experiment. Many earth-changing deep technology solutions are being commercialized, and the number and scale of successful exits continues to increase. In that sense, the exit of deep tech is no longer science fiction. To understand this better, our team recently analyzed the world’s deep technology withdrawals over the past decade (2013-2022) in what we believe is an industry first. As a result, the following was revealed.

Deep tech unicorn exits increase by 550% from 2018 to 2022

Source: techcrunch.com

Scientists are puzzled by the detection of ultra-high energy particles plummeting towards Earth, according to Science and Technology News.

Astronomers have detected a rare and extremely energetic particle falling to Earth.

Scientists say the ray, named after the Japanese sun goddess Amaterasu, is one of the most energetic cosmic rays ever detected.

The Amaterasu particle has an energy of more than 240 exaelectron volts (EeV), making it the second particle in recorded history, after another ultra-high-energy cosmic ray, the Oh My God particle (320 EeV), detected in 1991.

The origins of the particles are unknown, but experts believe that only the most powerful astronomical phenomena, larger than an exploding star, can produce them.

Toshihiro Fujii, associate professor at Osaka Metropolitan University, Japansaid that when he first discovered this particle, he thought, “There must have been a mistake.”

“We’ve seen energy levels unprecedented in the last 30 years,” he said.

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The particle seems to come out of nowhere, further deepening the mystery for scientists.

John Matthews, a research professor in the University of Utah’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, explains that there was nothing in the area high-energy enough to cause this phenomenon.

It appeared to emerge from the Local Void, the empty space adjacent to the Milky Way.

“We should be able to point to where in the sky they came from,” Professor Matthews says.

“But in the case of the Oh My God particle and this new particle, even if we trace its trajectory back to its source, there is nothing high enough energy to produce it.

“That’s the mystery – what the hell is going on?”

Typically, when ultra-high-energy cosmic rays hit Earth’s atmosphere, they create a cascade of secondary particles and electromagnetic radiation known as a massive air shower.

Some charged particles in air showers travel faster than the speed of light and produce a type of electromagnetic radiation that can be detected with special equipment.

One of those instruments is the Telescope Array Observatory in Utah, which discovered the Amaterasu particle.

image:
Telescope Array Surface Detector in Utah.Photo: Associated Press

It is now hoped that this particle will pave the way for further research that will help uncover ultrahigh-energy cosmic rays and their origins.

Experts suggest this may indicate a much larger magnetic deflection than predicted, an unidentified source within the local void, or an incomplete understanding of high-energy particle physics.

Another Utah professor, John Beltz, said he was “throwing out crazy ideas” to try to explain the mystery.

“These events appear to be coming from completely different places in the sky. There is no one mysterious source,” he said. “It could be a flaw in the fabric of space-time, causing cosmic strings to collide.”

However, he added, “There is no conventional explanation.”

Source: news.sky.com

Researchers discover the science behind our increased appetite for certain foods

Researchers have made an interesting discovery about the impact of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) found in prepared foods on hunger and health. AGEs, which are produced during cooking processes like baking and frying, enhance the appeal of food but also have negative effects on our well-being. Studies using nematodes have shown that AGEs lead to increased consumption and reduced lifespan, emphasizing the importance of choosing healthier food options.

Scientists at Buck have identified a mechanism that may explain why consuming delicious yet unhealthy food increases our desire to eat more. Overeating and weight gain can result from various factors, including the ready availability of flavorful, high-calorie foods. The researchers at Buck have found that AGEs, a type of chemical found in processed and prepared foods, contribute to increased hunger and a decreased ability to make healthy food choices. This research sheds light on the reasons behind our testing abilities for these foods.

According to Pankaj Kapahi, the lead author of the research study, “This research involving tiny worms has significant implications for human dietary choices and our tendency to overeat certain foods.” He added, “Modern processed foods rich in AGEs are tempting to eat, but we know very little about their long-term effects on our health.” The study was recently published in the journal eLife.

An evolutionary perspective suggests that humans have evolved mechanisms that encourage us to consume as much food as possible when it is readily available. This is because excess calories are stored as fat, which can be utilized during periods of fasting. The preference for flavorful foods, particularly those high in sugar, has been favored by natural selection. However, the mechanisms that make it difficult to resist such foods have remained unclear. AGEs are metabolic byproducts that occur naturally during sugar metabolism in cells but are also formed during cooking processes and are found in many processed foods. AGEs provide the appealing brown color that occurs during cooking, making food more appetizing and harder to resist.

While the Maillard reaction, which occurs when sugars and proteins interact with heat, is well-known for making food taste good, it can have detrimental effects on the body. The resulting AGEs cause inflammation and oxidative damage, which contribute to various health issues such as blood vessel stiffness, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and neurological problems. Accumulation of these metabolic byproducts in different organs is likely one of the main factors in the aging process of organs and organisms overall. It is due to these harmful effects that researchers are studying the impact of AGEs on health.

Even tiny worms used in the Kapahi lab were not immune to the allure and harm of AGEs. Researchers observed that these chemicals not only caused diseases and reduced lifespan but also increased the worms’ appetite for the same substances. The researchers aimed to understand the underlying mechanism by which AGEs promote excessive eating. Through their study, they identified a signaling pathway mediated by specific AGE molecules that promotes feeding and neurodegeneration. They also found that worms lacking the ability to process even naturally occurring AGEs had significantly shorter lifespans. The study is now expanding to mice, where researchers will investigate the relationship between AGEs and fat metabolism.

Understanding this signaling pathway may provide insights into overeating caused by modern diets rich in AGEs. This research highlights the role of AGE accumulation in diseases such as obesity and neurodegeneration and its association with the global rise in age-related diseases.

The key takeaway from their work is a profound realization that our food intake is often controlled by the food itself. To address this, the researchers have personally changed their diets, practicing intermittent fasting to allow the body to utilize fat instead of sugar. They also recommend consuming whole grains to maintain stable glucose levels and utilizing moist heat instead of dry cooking methods, such as steaming or frying. Adding acids when cooking, like when grilling, slows down the formation of AGEs.

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the impact of AGEs found in processed and prepared foods on hunger, overeating, and overall health. It highlights the need for individuals to be conscious of their dietary choices and opt for healthier alternatives to reduce the negative effects of AGE accumulation in the body.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Science and Technology News: Elon Musk’s X (previously known as Twitter) conducts trial to enforce posting fees for new users

Elon Musk’s X has started testing potential sign-up fees for new users.

The company formerly known as twitter introduced a fee of $1 (82 pence). new zealand And that Philippinesmost of the main features are behind a paywall.

New accounts that do not pay will not be able to post anything or interact directly with other users.

Instead, you are limited to viewing and listening to content and following other accounts.

X said the move was aimed at “reducing spam, platform manipulation, and bot activity.”

musk We have long complained about the presence of fake accounts on the platform; and tried to use his concerns to get out of the contract to buy it last year..

The trials in New Zealand and the Philippines came after the billionaire businessman discussed plans to introduce “small monthly payments” to all users.

Speaking at an event with the Israeli Prime Minister Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Musk said last month that the fee would help fight “a horde of bots.”

Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player

Mr. Musk starts charging fees for using X

Fees will make X “difficult to operate”

Since Musk took ownership of the company, much of his focus has been on monetizing Company X’s user base, with advertiser spending declining due to concerns over his moderation policies. ing.

X already offers a premium subscription for £9.60 per month. This gives users a verification check, allows them to write longer posts or edit existing ones, and gives their account priority visibility in search results.

Musk acknowledged that the new $1 fee “will not completely stop bots,” but argued that it will “make it 1,000 times harder to manipulate the platform.”

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This means that Company X israel-hamas war To spread.

EU officials warned Musk to take actionsaid it violated the block’s new online content rules.

Misleading content includes video game footage purporting to depict scenes of conflict and reusing unrelated war clips.

Later, X announced changes to the Community Notes feature. This allows volunteer posters to attach fact-checks to their posts, making them more visible if other users find them useful.

However, there are concerns that the tool is being manipulated, and all notes must include a source.

Source: news.sky.com

New research reveals the potential of using short audio recordings as a diagnostic tool for diabetes | Latest Findings in Science and Technology

New research has found that diabetes may be diagnosed with just a short audio recording from a mobile phone.

Scientists can determine whether someone has diabetes with nearly 90% accuracy using just a 6-10 second audio sample and basic health data such as age, gender, height, and weight I created an AI model.

Klick Labs recruited 267 people for the study, including some who had already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Each subject was asked to record a phrase on their phone six times a day for two weeks, and the team used AI to analyze more than 18,000 samples to determine the acoustic differences between diabetics and non-diabetics. I looked into it.

These included changes in pitch caused by type 2 diabetes that are imperceptible to the human ear.

This model had an accuracy rate of 89% for women and 86% for men.

Study author Jaycee Kaufman said the results could “change” the way we screen for diabetes.

More than 90% of adults with diabetes in the UK have type 2 diabetes, but many go undetected for years as symptoms may be systemic or absent. I am.

Testing for this disease usually requires a visit to a general practitioner and urine and blood tests.

“Current detection methods can be time-consuming, travel-intensive, and costly,” Kaufman said.

“Voice technology has the potential to completely remove these barriers.”

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Previous research has shown that audio recordings can be used in conjunction with AI to diagnose other diseases. Including new coronavirus infection.

Klick Labs believes this technology can also diagnose conditions such as prediabetes and hypertension.

This peer-reviewed study was published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings journal.

Source: news.sky.com