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Revolutionary AI: The Ultimate Solution for Managing Your Phone Calls, Bills, and Life Tasks

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The Evolution of Generative AI: Meet OpenClaw

Since the launch of ChatGPT, Generative AI has transformed our digital landscape over the past three years. It has spurred a significant stock market boom, integrated into our search engines, and become an essential tool for hundreds of millions of users daily.

Despite its benefits, many still hesitate to use AI tools. But why? While asking AI for text, audio, images, and videos can save time, crafting the right prompts often becomes a burdensome task. Users still grapple with everyday chores like answering emails, booking appointments, and paying bills.

This is where AI’s true power lies; handling the mundane tasks. The promising concept of “agent AI” suggests that people desire an efficient, always-on assistant to tackle time-consuming tasks. The latest advancement in this field is OpenClaw.

What is OpenClaw?

OpenClaw, previously known as ClawdBot, is an AI agent poised to fulfill AI’s grand promises. Once granted access to your computer files, social media, and email accounts, it can efficiently complete various tasks. This capability is powered by Claude Code, a model released by the AI company Anthropic.

Developed by software engineer Peter Steinberger and launched in late November 2025, ClawdBot initially gained traction but was rebranded due to concerns from Anthropic. After temporarily adopting the name MoltBot, it is now officially known as OpenClaw. (Mr. Steinberger did not respond to multiple interview requests.)

How Does OpenClaw Work?

OpenClaw operates on your computer or a virtual private server and connects messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord to coding agents powered by models like Anthropic’s Claude. Users often opt for a high-performance device, like the Apple Mac Mini, to host OpenClaw for optimal speed. Due to increasing demand, some shops are reporting sold-out status.

Although it can run on older laptops, OpenClaw needs to stay operational 24/7 to execute your specified commands.

Commands are sent through your preferred messaging app, enabling a simple conversational interface. When you message OpenClaw, the AI agent interprets your prompt, generates, and executes commands on your machine. This can include tasks such as finding files, running scripts, editing documents, and automating browser activities. The results are succinctly summarized and sent back to you, creating an efficient communication loop akin to collaborating with a colleague.

How Can OpenClaw Help You?

OpenClaw serves as an all-in-one assistant for both personal and professional tasks. Users typically start by decluttering files on their devices before transferring the tech’s prowess to more complex responsibilities. Some users report utilizing it to manage busy WhatsApp groups by summarizing necessary information and filtering out the irrelevant.

Other practical applications include:

  • Comparing supplier prices to minimize household spending.
  • Automating web browser tasks for seamless transactions.
  • Facilitating restaurant reservations by calling venues directly.
  • Preparing initial drafts for presentations while you sleep.

What Are the Risks?

While OpenClaw’s capabilities shine brightest when granted extensive access, this convenience raises significant risks. Experts warn that users may overlook potential vulnerabilities. For instance, OpenClaw could be exposed to prompt injection attacks or hacking if hosted on insufficiently secured virtual servers. This means sensitive data could be compromised.

Alan Woodward, a cybersecurity professor at the University of Surrey, cautions, “I can’t believe people would allow unrestricted access to sensitive software, including email and calendars.”

White hat hackers have already identified several security flaws in OpenClaw, raising concerns about the hands-off approach many users prefer, which simultaneously invites substantial risk.

Is This the Future of AI?

OpenClaw has recently launched its own social network, Moltbook, enabling its AI agents to interact and share insights. While humans can observe, they cannot engage directly in discussions, prompting fears about progression toward artificial general intelligence (AGI), potentially matching or exceeding human capabilities.

As we navigate this new realm, it’s vital to consider the implications of relinquishing extensive data access to AI agents. We may be standing on the brink of a new AI era—an agent capable of managing your life efficiently, if you’re prepared to grant it free access and relinquish control. It’s a thrilling yet daunting prospect.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Nasal Drops: A Potential Solution for Preventing All Strains of Influenza

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Nasal Sprays Target the Main Entry Point of the Influenza Virus

Tatyana Maksimova/Getty Images

Recent research highlights a novel antibody nasal spray that showed promise in early trials with mice, monkeys, and humans for preventing influenza infections. This spray can neutralize various strains of influenza viruses, including those transmitted from animals, potentially aiding in the fight against future pandemics.

The primary method of combating the spread of influenza remains the annual vaccine, designed to stimulate the immune system to produce targeted antibodies against circulating virus strains. However, due to the constant mutations of influenza viruses, vaccines can only offer limited protection.

To enhance vaccine efficacy, pharmaceutical innovator Johnson & Johnson has developed a groundbreaking antibody, CR9114, capable of neutralizing diverse influenza strains. This antibody recognizes and binds to invariant components of the virus, allowing for consistent defense against mutations.

Initially, CR9114 was injected into animals, but it didn’t provide adequate protection due to insufficient concentrations reaching the nasal cavity—the virus’s primary point of entry. In 2022, the Leiden Institute licensed CR9114, creating a formulation suitable for nasal administration.

Subsequent studies demonstrated that administering CR9114 via nasal spray to mice and macaque monkeys shielded them from various influenza A and B strains, including one isolated during the 1933 flu outbreak.

In addition, preliminary tests involving 143 individuals aged 18 to 55 revealed that using the nasal spray twice daily maintained steady antibody levels in their nasal passages, showing no significant side effects. Mucus samples collected afterward successfully neutralized different strains of influenza, including the avian flu strain that affected humans in China in 2013.

The next phase of research will expose nasal spray users to live influenza viruses to determine its actual effectiveness in preventing illness.

While nasal sprays may not guarantee 100% effectiveness against all entry routes of the virus, they remain a crucial defense mechanism against influenza. According to Linda Wakim from the University of Melbourne, “Even if you block entry through the nose, you’ll still be eliminating the virus at its main access point for infection.”

Wakim also notes that while the nasal spray may require more frequent dosing than a standard flu shot, it could significantly benefit high-risk populations, such as immunocompromised individuals and frontline health workers, especially during pandemics when rapid public health responses are essential.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Weight Loss Drug Launch: The Ultimate Solution is Here!

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Ozempic is a well-known name, primarily approved for diabetes treatment in the UK and US, yet it is commonly prescribed ‘off-label’ for weight loss. This medication has essentially become synonymous with a groundbreaking new category of weight loss drugs.

Injectable medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Rybelsus, and Saxenda can facilitate significant weight loss, approaching 20% of a person’s body weight in certain individuals.

Now, the next generation of weight loss solutions has arrived, and they are available in pill form.

The debut of these tablets occurred in the United States, with Novo Nordisk (the producer of Ozempic) launching Wegovy tablets on January 5, 2026. Their quick rise in popularity resulted in over 18,000 new prescriptions issued in the first week alone.

But Wegovy won’t stand alone for long. Eli Lilly’s competing drug, orforglipron, is projected to gain FDA approval this spring, and several alternatives are in development.

(Currently, these tablets are not available in the UK; however, UK policies are anticipated to follow the FDA’s example.)

The mechanism of these tablets mirrors that of injectables. The active compounds, known as “incretins” (like Wegovy’s semaglutide and Mounjaro’s tirzepatide), deceive the body into feeling full by imitating natural satiety hormones.

As digestion slows down, you naturally consume less, leading to weight loss. Don’t let hunger hinder your journey to success.

Now available in pill form, this medication promises similar life-altering effects and protection against obesity-related illnesses, all while being more affordable than ever.

Is it too good to be true? Experts caution that while the pill presents notable risks, it also brings substantial benefits.

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Can Weight Loss Drugs Transform the Landscape of Treatment?

These tablets could signify a new chapter in the management of obesity, providing broader access to life-altering healthcare.

“Not everyone prefers injectable medications,” states Dr. Simon Cork, a senior lecturer in appetite and weight regulation at Anglia Ruskin University in the UK. “Injections can be uncomfortable for many patients, making oral administration a more appealing option.”

Besides comfort, switching from injections to pills could massively reduce monthly costs. Those using weight loss drugs today often spend hundreds of dollars each month on injections.

Weight loss pills can be stored at room temperature in standard pill blister packs, making them more accessible – Credit: Getty Images

Thanks to the absence of needles and refrigeration needs, these pills can be produced and distributed at lower costs, providing weight loss solutions to millions who previously faced exorbitant prices.

“Overall, these pills are expected to be significantly more affordable than current injection therapies,” says Cork.

This trend is already visible in the US, where Wegovy pens are priced at $349 (approximately £250) per month, whereas Wegovy tablets retail for $149 (around £110).

In the UK, nearly 95% of incretin users incur high private fees. According to Professor Giles Yeo from the University of Cambridge, the NHS often cannot prescribe these expensive medications to all patients who need them.

“Patients may need to maintain these drugs for extended periods, which exacerbates the financial barrier, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds most susceptible to obesity,” Cork noted. “I hope that these oral medications will democratize access.”

Addressing Long-Term Challenges

However, these drugs may not be the most effective options, even as their availability increases.

Incretins tend to offer lower efficacy in pill form. Injectable Wegovy has demonstrated a capacity to help users lose 15% of body weight after 68 weeks, while Wegovy tablets showed only 13.6% weight loss across 64 weeks.

The efficacy of pills may not match that of modern injected solutions. Retatortide, still in development, has shown results of 24% body weight reduction in just 48 weeks.

Administering these drugs through pills poses inherent challenges. Oral medications must traverse the stomach and liver before entering circulation, resulting in the manufacturer needing to increase the amount of active ingredient to achieve desired outcomes.

Consequently, weight loss results from pills may not be as rapid as from injections. Nevertheless, a significant complaint regarding injections—that discontinuing them often leads to weight regain—may see improvement.

A 2022 study revealed that participants who halted Wegovy injections regained up to two-thirds of their lost weight within one year.

The emergence of the pill could provide a solution. A recent study, the Eli Lilly ATTAIN-MAINTAIN Trial, showed that Orforglipron tablets helped participants stabilize their weight after stopping injectable therapy.

“Many might rely on these medications to maintain weight loss,” Yeo suggests.

Cork adds, “Injectables can be utilized for optimal weight loss, and pills can help maintain this weight affordably.”

Most incretins mimic the natural satiety hormone GLP-1, but new treatments are targeting multiple hormones for enhanced effectiveness – Credit: Getty Images

The Risks and Concerns of the Pill Revolution

While these drugs possess the potential to catalyze significant positive change, their widespread availability also raises risks for vulnerable populations.

“The major danger is these drugs entering the wrong hands,” warns Yeo. “Since there’s no weight limit to how these drugs might impact individuals, a 300-pound person aiming to lose 50 pounds could utilize it as well as a 16-year-old girl weighing 75 pounds.”

“Pills can easily be trafficked, making them accessible to anyone. It’s essential to establish strict regulations around their distribution,” he urges.

Cork shares concerns over side effects. Incretins can provoke various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Clinical trials found that three-quarters of participants experienced digestive issues.

Moreover, there are rare but serious risks such as pancreatitis, gallstones, and gastroparesis. Additionally, interactions with other medications, including contraceptives, could affect their efficacy.

“The risk of pancreatitis is low, around 1%,” Cork notes. “But with millions potentially using these drugs, this risk becomes concerning without appropriate oversight.”

Though these warnings are sobering, they remain speculative. The actual impact of these drugs is still uncertain.

“2026 is poised to be a crucial year in understanding the efficacy, prevalence, and applications of these medications,” Yeo concludes. “Time will tell how things unfold.”

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Solution to BBC Science Focus Crossword #429: Your Complete Guide

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Meet Holly, a dedicated staff writer at BBC Science Focus, where she expertly manages the engaging Q&A section. With an MSc (Special Award) in Earth Sciences (Space and Climate Physics) from UCL, Holly specializes in Astronomy and Earth Sciences. Before her journey with Our Media, she gained valuable experience as a geo-environmental consultant and engineer, passionately exploring exoplanets in her free time while advising on ground risk and remediation projects in Northern England.

With nearly a decade of experience as a regional editor for a popular theater website, Holly excels in curating and developing digital content. She is also a talented artist and illustrator, regularly contributing to the craft website Gathered. Her impressive portfolio includes collaborations with notable organizations such as RSPB, English Heritage, Disney, Pilot, and Brother, in addition to her work with BBC Good Food Magazine, Home Style Magazine, and Papercraft Inspiration Magazine.

Holly’s interests extend to photography and a fascination with antiques, showcasing her diverse artistic talents and love for culture.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

End-to-End Encryption: The Ultimate Security Solution of the Century

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Everyone has secrets to protect. In today’s digital age, whether safeguarding personal messages, business communications, or confidential state information, end-to-end encryption (E2EE) offers essential security and peace of mind.

E2EE ensures that your communications remain private from internet service providers and the operators of messaging or video conferencing applications. Messages are encrypted on the sender’s device and only decrypted by the recipient, making them unreadable to unauthorized parties while in transit. This prevents access by any entity, including law enforcement or corporate insiders.

Digital encryption is rooted in robust mathematics rather than mere assurances. The RSA algorithm, introduced in 1977, pioneered modern encryption by relying on the complexity of factoring large numbers into their prime components. Since then, various algorithms have emerged, utilizing intricate mathematics to enhance cryptographic security.

The true strength of E2EE lies not just in its technical implementation, but in how it upholds democracy and human rights across the globe. As Matthew Feeney from the UK privacy group Big Brother Watch states, “There are individuals in perilous regions depending on encryption to preserve their lives.” Additionally, even in recognized democracies, freedom is vulnerable. Feeney warns that those who claim “I have nothing to hide” should take heed of history’s lessons.

Many governments view E2EE unfavorably because it blocks surveillance, similar to how postal services safeguard letters. Notably, UK governments have attempted to ban E2EE; most recently, Prime Minister Keir Starmer reversed a controversial request for a backdoor into Apple following a public outcry.

Feeney acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the potential for E2EE to be compromised, as intelligence agencies typically do not disclose their capabilities. Concerns loom regarding the advent of quantum computing, which may soon breach current encryption algorithms. However, cryptography continues to evolve, with emerging mathematical solutions challenging outdated algorithms. “Governments may wield power, but they can’t override the laws of mathematics,” Feeney asserts.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discover How This New Book Provides Effective Tools for Managing Anxiety – Is It the Solution You’ve Been Looking For?

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Pilot John Peters (front) and navigator John Nichol were captured as prisoners of war.

Trinity Mirror / Mirror Pix / Alamy

Uncertainty Toolkit
Sam Conniff and Catherine Templer-Lewis, The Bluebird (UK, now US, April)

Few individuals have experienced the extreme stress that fighter pilot John Peters underwent during the Gulf War. In January 1991, after completing a critical mission, Peters’ aircraft was hit by an enemy missile in the desert vicinity of Basra, Iraq. Despite the chaos, Peters and navigator John Nichol managed a brief escape before being apprehended by Iraqi forces.

While imprisoned, Peters endured harsh interrogation and was constantly haunted by the thought of dying in isolation. Nonetheless, he persevered. After his retirement from the Air Force, he pursued a degree in business administration and now excels as a motivational speaker.

Can we draw lessons from his resilience to manage our own stress? This is the foundation of the Uncertainty Toolkit, crafted by Sam Conniff and cognitive scientist Catherine Templer-Lewis. Peters is joined by a diverse group of “uncertainty experts,” including former gang leaders, refugees, and those overcoming addiction. Their collective wisdom, combined with empirical research, is paving the way for innovative strategies to handle the anxiety arising from unpredictable situations.

Conniff and Templer-Lewis introduce an engaging acronym—FFS—to illustrate the primary impacts of uncertainty: fear, fog, and stagnation. This framework illustrates how we grapple with the fear of the unknown, confusion caused by unpredictability, and immobility when faced with necessary action. The toolkit offers systematic exercises designed to conquer each hurdle.

This concept holds broad appeal; the authors previously tested it in collaboration with researchers at University College London, engaging over 20,000 participants through an interactive online documentary. Although the specifics of the research methodology and outcomes remain unclear, it seems to have positively transformed many participants’ perceptions of uncertainty from largely negative to predominantly constructive.

Despite its promise, reading this book can sometimes be tedious. It often reiterates concepts using nearly identical language, occasionally on the same page. The insights from uncertainty experts feel somewhat diluted, as demonstrated by Peters’ story, which ultimately loses impact when he is portrayed wishing to be remembered simply as a “good man” despite facing execution.

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It is vital to assess any emotions that might affect your judgment, including hunger, anger, anxiety, loneliness, or fatigue.
“

Nonetheless, the book is filled with effective strategies for regulating your emotions. Alongside familiar techniques like mindfulness and yogic breathing, readers will discover reflective exercises aimed at identifying avoidance behaviors, balancing fear of failure with the potential for regret, and reframing anxiety as excitement. The authors encourage readers to cultivate gratitude, clarify their values, and reconnect with their communities, all of which contribute to breaking free from the FFS state that often characterizes our response to uncertainty.

The book’s most insightful takeaway pertains to intuition. Our emotional instincts serve as a compass for decision-making, especially when facing information overload. However, this intuition can easily be overshadowed by our mental and physiological states. Thus, the authors advise checking in with ourselves for the most common emotions that can cloud our judgment: hunger, anger, anxiety, loneliness, and fatigue. This acronym can be remembered as HALT.

Additionally, Conniff and Templer-Lewis challenge stereotypes, urging us to broaden our understanding by engaging with those whose views diverge from our own. This advice is valuable for anyone seeking a clearer perspective on the world.

By the conclusion, I found the authors’ approach compelling, even though they compromised their scientific authority by referencing the prophecies of mystic Baba Vanga in “Balkan Nostradamus.” They claim she forecasted that 2030 would be marked by climate change and global conflict, which I found to be exactly the type of fear, fog, and stagnation they caution against. Nonetheless, if you can overlook these missteps, this book offers an empowering and enriching read.

David Robson is a writer. His latest book is Law of Connection

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Solution for Cosmic Acceleration: Overcoming Dark Energy Challenges

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Researchers from the Center for Applied Space Technology and Microgravity at the University of Bremen and the University of Transylvania in Brașov have unveiled a groundbreaking theoretical framework that challenges our understanding of the universe’s accelerating expansion, potentially rendering dark energy obsolete. They suggest that this acceleration may be an intrinsic characteristic of space-time geometry, rather than a result of unknown cosmic forces.

This artist’s impression traces the evolution of the universe from the Big Bang, through the formation of the Cosmic Microwave Background, to the emergence of galaxies. Image credit: M. Weiss / Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

For over 25 years, scientists have been puzzled by the unexpected observation that the expansion of the universe is accelerating, counter to the gravitational pull.

In the 1990s, astronomers identified this acceleration through observations of distant Type Ia supernovae, leading to the prevalent theory of dark energy, an invisible force believed to drive this expansion.

Nevertheless, the actual nature of dark energy remains elusive within the Standard Model of cosmology.

Dr. Christian Pfeiffer and his team propose that we may better understand this cosmic acceleration by re-evaluating the geometric framework used to describe gravity.

Central to modern cosmology is Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which details how matter and energy shape space-time.

The universe’s evolution is modeled using the Friedman equation, which originates from Einstein’s principles.

The researchers introduce an innovative solution based on Finsler gravity, an extension of Einstein’s theory.

This approach enhances our understanding of spacetime geometry and allows for a more nuanced exploration of how matter, especially gases, interacts with gravity.

Unlike general relativity, which depends on rigid geometric forms, Finsler gravity presents a more versatile space-time geometry.

With this methodology, the authors recalibrated the equations governing cosmic expansion.

Informed by the Finsler framework, the modified Friedman equation predicts the universe’s acceleration phenomena without necessitating the introduction of dark energy.

In essence, the accelerating expansion emerges directly from the geometry of space-time itself.

“This is a promising hint that we may explain the universe’s accelerating expansion partly without dark energy, drawing from generalized space-time geometry,” Pfeiffer remarked.

This concept does not entirely dismiss dark energy or invalidate the Standard Model.

Instead, it implies that some effects attributed to dark energy might have their roots in a deeper understanding of gravity.

“This fresh geometric outlook on the dark energy dilemma provides avenues for a richer comprehension of the universe’s foundational laws,” stated Dr. Pfeiffer.

The research team’s paper is published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics.

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Christian Pfeiffer et al. 2025. From a moving gas to an exponentially expanding universe, the Finsler-Friedman equation. JCAP 10:050; DOI: 10.1088/1475-7516/2025/10/050

Source: www.sci.news

Sinking Arctic Ocean Trees: A Natural Solution to Removing 1 Billion Tons of CO2

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Trees Floating Towards the Arctic Ocean

Trees Floating Towards the Arctic Ocean

Carl Christoph Stadie/Alfred Wegener Institute

Logging extensive areas of boreal forests and submerging the trees in the Arctic Ocean could potentially eliminate up to 1 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year.

Researchers suggest cutting down wildfire-prone coniferous trees and transporting them through six major Arctic rivers, including the Yukon and Mackenzie, where they can sink within a year.

“Currently, we have forests that sequester significant carbon, but the next challenge is finding ways to store it without burning,” says Wolf Bungen from Cambridge University.

To combat carbon emissions from hard-to-electrify industries, it’s essential to explore methods for atmospheric carbon reduction. While direct air capture technology is costly, tree planting can backfire if the trees end up dying or burning.

Several companies are working on wood burial techniques. For instance, a U.S. initiative, Running Tide, sunk 25,000 tonnes of wood chips off Iceland’s coast but faced shutdown due to environmental concerns.

Approximately 1 trillion tonnes of carbon are stored within the wood, soil, and peat of boreal forests across North Eurasia and North America, a figure expected to rise as climate change accelerates plant growth. However, with increasing wildfire frequency, this carbon could be released.

Bungen and his team previously discovered that wood can survive for up to 8,000 years in cold, oxygen-limited Alpine lakes without decomposing or emitting CO2. Six Arctic rivers transport substantial amounts of logs, with driftwood in deltas estimated to contain over 20 million tons of carbon. Carl Stadie from Germany’s Alfred Wegener Institute was not part of the study.

If every year, 30,000 square kilometers were cleared along each river, placing the wood on river ice in winter and then replanting, it could absorb up to 1 billion tons of CO2 annually, researchers estimate.

However, some US rivers continue to experience biodiversity loss a century after timber removal, warns Ellen Wall of Colorado State University.

“Dumping a massive amount of logs into a river resembles pushing brush into a river,” she notes.

Moreover, if wood becomes lodged on beaches or in tributaries, causing flooding, it could thaw permafrost and increase methane emissions from microorganisms.

“We could see a scenario where the wood aids ocean carbon sequestration, while onshore flooding and melting snow cause carbon release at high altitudes,” warns Merritt Turetsky from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Inadequate cold or oxygen-free conditions may lead to wood decomposition rather than sinking. Driftwood frozen in sea ice is often transported to the Faroe Islands.

“In a worst-case scenario, vast forest areas could be cleared, impacting the carbon they store,” says Stadie.

Roman Dial, a professor at Alaska Pacific University, warns that this proposal may be exploited by commercial logging and could face criticism from all sides of the political spectrum.

“How extensive is the list of potential unintended consequences that could unfold in the Arctic, given our limited understanding?” he questions.

Some regions of the Arctic ocean floor might not be suitable for conservation, according to Morgan Raven at the University of California, Santa Barbara. However, others could benefit from exploration, given the substantial influx of wood into the Arctic and other oceans. The Earth once experienced a greenhouse climate era 56 million years ago.

“We can investigate sediments and rocks to understand how this experiment was conducted in the past,” Raven concludes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Quantum Computers with Recyclable Qubits: A Solution for Reducing Errors

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Internal optics of Atom Computing’s AC1000 system

Atom Computing

Quantum computers, utilizing qubits formed from extremely cold atoms, are rapidly increasing in size and may soon surpass classical computers in computational power. However, the frequency of errors poses a significant challenge to their practicality. Researchers have now found a way to replenish and recycle these qubits, enhancing computation reliability.

All existing quantum systems are susceptible to errors and are currently unable to perform calculations that would give them an edge over traditional computers. Nonetheless, researchers are making notable advancements in the creation of error correction methods to address this issue.

One approach involves dividing the components of quantum computers, known as qubits, into two primary categories: operational qubits that manipulate data and auxiliary qubits that monitor errors.

Developing large quantities of high-quality qubits for either function remains a significant technical hurdle. Matt Norcia and his team at Atom Computing have discovered a method to lessen the qubit requirement by recycling or substituting auxiliary qubits. They demonstrated that an error-tracking qubit can be effectively reused for up to 41 consecutive runs.

“The calculation’s duration is likely to necessitate numerous rounds of measurement. Ideally, we want to reuse qubits across these rounds, minimizing the need for a continuous influx of new qubits,” Norcia explains.

The team utilized qubits derived from electrically neutral ytterbium atoms that were chilled close to absolute zero using lasers and electromagnetic pulses. By employing “optical tweezers,” they can manipulate each atom’s quantum state, which encodes information. This method allowed them to categorize the quantum computer into three distinct zones.

In the first zone, 128 optical tweezers directed the qubits to conduct calculations. The second zone comprised 80 tweezers that held qubits for error tracking, or that could be swapped in for faulty qubits. The third zone functioned as a storage area, keeping an additional 75 qubits that had recently been deemed useful. These last two areas enabled researchers to reset or exchange the auxiliary qubit as needed.

Norcia noted that it was challenging to establish this setup due to stray laser light interfering with nearby qubits. Consequently, researchers had to develop a highly precise laser control and a method to adjust the state of data qubits, ensuring they remained “hidden” from specific harmful light types.

“The reuse of Ancilla is crucial for advancing quantum computing,” says Yuval Borger from QuEra, a U.S. quantum computing firm. Without this ability, even basic calculations would necessitate millions, or even billions, of qubits, making it impractical for current or forthcoming quantum hardware, he adds.

This challenge is recognized widely across the atom-based qubit research community. “Everyone acknowledges that neutral atoms understand the necessity to reset and reload during calculations,” Norcia asserts.

For instance, Borger highlights that a team from Harvard and MIT employed similar techniques to maintain the operation of their quantum computer using 3000 ultra-cold rubidium atoms for several hours. Other quantum setups, like Quantinuum’s recently launched Helios machine, which uses ions controlled by light as qubits, also feature qubit reusability.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Magnetic Gel: A More Effective Solution for Kidney Stone Removal

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Kidney stones are a common and painful condition

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Devices utilizing magnets may offer a more efficient method for removing kidney stones compared to traditional techniques, potentially reducing the necessity for repeated surgeries.

Kidney stones form when minerals in urine crystallize. If they become lodged in the kidneys or move into the ureters, the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder, they can lead to significant discomfort.

Current treatments often involve breaking the stones into smaller pieces through methods such as guiding a thin tube with a laser through the bladder into the ureters and kidneys, or applying ultrasound waves externally.

Surgeons typically extract these fragments individually using a wire basket that passes in and out of the urethra. This repetitive retrieval process can result in tissue damage. About 40% of the time, residual debris is left behind, particularly if small particles evade the basket, increasing the risk of additional stones.

Seeking alternatives, Joseph Liao and his team at Stanford University in California previously engineered a magnetic gel designed to coat stone debris and a magnetic wire to capture it in lab settings.

Recently, they implemented this method in a study involving four pigs. They introduced various fragments of human kidney stones into the pigs’ kidneys before injecting the magnetic gel. By utilizing a magnetic wire inserted through the urethra, the researchers managed to extract multiple stone fragments simultaneously, unlike the traditional wire basket method that retrieves them one at a time. “It’s like using a stick to fish out a snot filled with stone debris, allowing for the removal of significant amounts of stone fragments at once,” explained Liao.

This technique appears to cause less tissue damage than conventional methods since fewer invasive procedures are necessary. Unlike wire baskets, the magnetic device effectively captures debris of varying sizes, permitting thorough removal of all remnants from the kidney, as noted by Rio. This not only decreases the chance of new stones forming but also curtails the need for additional surgeries.

“This is a very promising method,” states Veronica Magdanz from the University of Waterloo, Canada, who was not involved in the research. “Any advancement that enhances the success rate of stone collection and facilitates the removal of more pieces at once is advantageous.”

None of the pigs exhibited any adverse reactions to the gel. “This is excellent news. It is non-toxic and harmless,” Magdanz remarked. After refining the technique through further pig studies, Rio and his team aim to begin human trials within approximately a year.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Treatment Could Be the Most Effective Solution for Easing Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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Irritable bowel syndrome may be alleviated by techniques taught in various therapies

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A new approach that alters behaviors in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could prove to be more effective than traditional treatments. When offered digitally, these methods might also enhance the speed of relief.

IBS is often accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. While the underlying cause is not entirely understood, disruptions in gut-brain signaling are thought to play a pivotal role. Factors such as intestinal infections and certain foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, sending distress signals to the brain, while psychological stress can trigger the opposite response. Patients with IBS are advised to explore relaxation techniques.

While dietary recommendations and medications, like laxatives, provide relief for some, others continue to struggle with symptoms. Consequently, researchers are investigating innovative alternatives, including fecal transplants. Behavioral therapy, often seen as a last resort by physicians, may actually offer greater benefits than standard care according to a 2020 review. This approach may surpass regular treatment efficacy.

Among the methods is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which empowers individuals to modify their thoughts and behaviors to better cope with and accept their symptoms, and gut-directed hypnotherapy, which induces a trance-like state prior to signaling symptom improvement.

Following the release of more studies, Alexander Ford and his colleagues at the University of Leeds in the UK, some of whom contributed to earlier reviews, conducted a comprehensive review of 67 randomized controlled trials with over 7,000 participants. These trials compared behavioral interventions lasting 4 to 12 weeks against various control groups that received conventional treatments like dietary guidance and laxatives, or those on a waiting list for intervention.

“This represents the most extensive review of behavioral treatments for irritable bowel syndrome in terms of both the number of studies and participants,” stated Perjohan Lindfors from Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.

The findings indicate that CBT and gut-directed hypnotherapy, whether in-person or via apps and the internet, are more beneficial compared to standard treatments when participants evaluated their symptoms pre- and post-treatment.

Rather than typically being provided solely in-person after standard treatments fail, the results imply that behavioral therapies can be utilized much earlier in the process. Ford remarked, “Digital solutions can help expedite the delivery of these treatments.” He further mentioned that such approaches may allow for broader implementation of behavioral therapies. However, before any updates to guidelines can be made, further trials that directly compare digital therapies with traditional treatments are required, which Ford estimates could take another five years.

Additionally, as most participants were unaware of their assigned groups, a portion of the observed benefits may stem from a placebo effect, according to Lindfors. He proposed that trials involving full treatment versus partial treatment could assist in estimating the effect size, assuming all participants genuinely believed they were receiving effective behavioral therapy.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

DNA Cassette Tapes: A Storage Solution for All Recorded Songs to Date

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DNA cassettes resemble music cassette tapes

Jiankai Li et al. 2025

With a modern twist, the nostalgic cassette tape may be resurging in the form of DNA. Previously used solely as a medium for information storage, researchers have now fused the concept with the style of 1980s cassette tapes, leading to the innovation termed DNA cassettes.

Xingyu Jiang and his colleagues at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Guangdong, China, crafted these cassettes by printing synthetic DNA molecules onto plastic tapes. “The sequences can be designed in such a manner that the order of DNA bases (A, T, C, G) conveys digital information just like binary code (0 or 1) in a computer,” he remarks. This allows for the storage of all forms of digital files, from text and images to audio and video.

A significant challenge of earlier DNA storage methods was accessing the data. To remedy this, the team implemented a series of barcodes on the tape to simplify searching. “It’s akin to locating a book in a library,” explains Jiang. “You first identify the shelf corresponding to the book and then locate the specific book on that shelf.”

The tape is also treated with a protective coating dubbed “crystal armor,” made from zeolite imidazolate, which ensures the integrity of the DNA. This allows the cassettes to retain data for centuries without degradation.

While classic cassette tapes can hold around 12 songs per side, the new 100-meter DNA cassette can house over 3 billion pieces of music comprising 10 megabytes of songs. This results in an astounding total data storage capacity of 36 petabytes, comparable to a 36,000 terabyte hard drive.

However, Jiankai Li warns that if one were to place the new tape into an old-school Walkman, it wouldn’t produce sound. “Our tapes contain DNA molecules,” he notes. “It’s similar to trying to play a photograph on a record player—the formats simply don’t align.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Hot Glue Gun: A Surprising Solution for Repairing Broken Bones

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Broken bones often need a material to fill the void

Sopone Nawoot/Alamy

Researchers have discovered that with slight modifications, hot glue guns, typically used in crafting, can effectively and affordably mend damaged bones.

While bones can often heal themselves after minor injuries, serious trauma or tumor removal may leave cavities that require a synthetic plug to stimulate bone cell growth.

Although 3D printing can create tailored scaffolding to fill these gaps, the method necessitates scanning and remote fabrication, taking at least a week. While this pre-planned approach works for worn joints, it’s unfeasible for emergency surgeries.

To tackle this issue, John Seung Lee from Sungkyunkwan University in Korea and his team have created a solution that can be employed immediately during a single procedure.

They modified hot glue guns to lower their operating temperature from above 100°C to approximately 60°C and developed biological adhesive materials composed of hydroxyapatite (which makes up 50% of natural bone) and a biodegradable thermoplastic known as polycaprolactone.

During surgery, surgeons can utilize hot glue guns to rapidly fill bone voids, enabling bone cells to access these gaps and ultimately heal the injuries permanently over time.

“It’s essentially created from a standard hot glue gun,” Lee explains. “It significantly reduces time and costs.”

Lee and his colleagues assessed the glue gun’s effectiveness by repairing a 1 cm gap in a rabbit’s femur. Twelve weeks later, samples showed no complications or signs of separation between the adhesive and the bone, with bone mass being more than double that of control animals treated with traditional cement.

Furthermore, researchers found that two antibacterial agents can be integrated into the filaments to decrease infection risk, releasing the drugs gradually to the surgical site over several weeks.

Benjamin Olivere from the University of Nottingham in the UK is investigating 3D-printed scaffolds for bone repair but expresses skepticism, suggesting hot glue guns might become a more practical alternative compared to slower scanning and printing methods.

“Is it an intriguing idea? Absolutely. Is it feasible? Yes. Do I believe it’s plausible? Yes,” he states. “However, the practical application may be a different matter.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Have You Discovered an Unexpected Solution to the Environmental Impact of Air Travel?

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Will it take flight? This question is increasingly raised by those mindful of the environment. Boarding a plane might seem like the only realistic choice, especially during hard times or when loved ones live far away.

We can certainly engage in some air travel as part of a sustainable future, but we must first dispel certain misconceptions and clearly outline feasible ways to lessen our global warming footprint.

The most common myth is that sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) can resolve our issues. This label is misleading, as SAFs often don’t live up to their name.

Here’s why: there are three primary categories of SAF. The first type is derived from waste, particularly used cooking oil. However, this only accounts for about 2-3% of global flights. The second type consists of synthetic SAFs produced from raw materials like captured carbon dioxide, using renewable energy. The efficiency of these processes is quite low (at least 2 kilowatt-hours of energy are needed to generate 1 kWh of fuel), which is a misguided use of limited renewable resources. The third type is made from crops, which puts immense pressure on farmland and the food system, posing major challenges. In reality, sustainable aviation fuel is not the revolutionary solution many hope for.

Another hopeful concept I often encounter is the idea that electrification or hydrogen fuel could decarbonize aviation. However, electrification is practical only for short-haul flights; battery weight makes it unfeasible for long distances. Hydrogen poses its own challenges due to its bulky storage requirements, even when compressed to 700 times atmospheric pressure.

On a brighter note, there are significant opportunities that haven’t garnered enough attention.

Potential solutions for greener aviation have been overlooked until recently. The high, wispy trails produced by aircraft exhaust – which account for over 60% of the climate impact of flights – carry even more weight when considering their short-term influence over the next two decades.

These contrails reflect Earth’s heat back into the atmosphere and function somewhat like a blanket. However, their overall impact is complex. They can not only trap heat but also reflect sunlight on clear days, creating a cooling effect that mainly occurs during the day, particularly over dark surfaces like oceans. Unfortunately, the warming effect tends to dominate during warm nights over dark surfaces.

By making small adjustments to flight paths, we can manage contrail formation. Changing an aircraft’s altitude or trajectory in specific weather conditions can be beneficial. Deliberate modifications while flying over sunny waters could yield positive results. A slight alteration in flight routes—just 1.7%—could potentially reduce contrail warming impacts by almost 60%. Real-time modeling is essential for integrating this into flight planning, similar to current practices for avoiding storms and managing air traffic.

This presents a relatively cost-effective solution that requires industry leadership. Once contrail management becomes established, the role of SAF might shift significantly, allowing it to contribute to cleaner burning and mitigate the worst impacts of contrails on more challenging flights.

Does this imply we can ignore the climate ramifications of flying? Unfortunately, no. Yet, understanding these factors provides a legitimate reason for optimism.

Mike Berners-Lee is the author of True Climate: Why We Need It and How to Get It

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Zombie Cell Killers: The Ultimate Solution to End Your Back Pain for Good

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Innovative treatments may transform the management of lower back pain by addressing the root causes associated with inflammatory “zombie” cells. Recent research conducted using mice.

A group of scientists, led by researchers from McGill University in Canada, found that a combination of two medications, O-Vanillin and RG-7112, effectively eliminates zombie cells from mouse spinal tissues, alleviating pain and inflammation symptoms.

“Our results are promising because they indicate that by eliminating cells that not only obscure pain but also contribute to issues, we can approach lower back pain treatment in a novel manner,” stated the senior author, Professor Lisbet Haglund from McGill’s Ministry of Surgery.

Zombie cells, also referred to as senescent cells, do not function like typical cells. Rather than undergoing division and death to make way for new cells, they persist in the body.

As we age, these zombie cells can build up, leading to inflammation, pain, and spinal damage.

For the hundreds of millions of adults globally suffering from back pain, the impact of zombie cells is often masked and inadequately addressed by current medications.

This new treatment, however, aims to alleviate back pain by targeting and eliminating these lingering zombie cells, thereby addressing the underlying issues.

Aging or zombie cells accumulate in the shock-absorbing discs between each spinal vertebra, releasing inflammatory molecules that damage discs – Credit: Nemes Laszlo/Science Photo Library via Getty

The McGill research team discovered this promising new treatment while working with mice genetically engineered to develop spinal injuries and lower back pain over seven months.

The researchers administered varying doses of O-Vanillin and RG-7112 to these mice. Some received only one of the drugs, while others received a combination of both.

RG-7112 is a medication already established to remove zombie cells in various contexts, though it hasn’t been applied to lower back pain treatment until now.

O-Vanillin, a natural compound sourced from turmeric, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but had not been previously tested against zombie cells.

After 8 weeks of treatment, mice receiving both drugs at higher doses exhibited the lowest levels of zombie cells, inflammation, and pain.

Those treated with a single drug showed some improvement, but the results were not as significant as those achieved with the combination therapy.

“The pressing question now is whether these medications can produce the same effects in human subjects,” Haglund remarked.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is This the Solution to the Housing Crisis? YouTube Series Spotlights Chic, Compact Abodes

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I received invitations to experience the homes of an architect in Buenos Aires, a Vogue designer in Hong Kong, a community organizer in Sydney, and a writer in Paris.

In reality, I spend my time watching episodes of “Never Too Small” on YouTube. Never Too Small is a media company that produces magazines and online documentaries focused on “designing and living with small footprints.” For me, “Never Too Small” equals “the source of my favorite TV shows.” I enjoy watching while snacking on toast.

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New episodes are released every week, totaling over 100. Their duration, usually under 10 minutes, is just right. The calming visuals of historic architecture and busy urban streets exude charm. The gentle background music envelops you like a warm bath. As you dive into these videos, you realize you can’t have just one; suddenly, over 100 episodes feel like just a handful. It’s reminiscent of that moment when you first taste chocolate and are told it’s simply an “occasional” treat.


At its core, this series aims to illustrate that one doesn’t need a grand cathedral to feel comfortable as a human being. This appeals to the Australian mindset, often suggesting that without property—taking up a day and a half of each day—we might as well be dead. (Just blame Banjo Patterson or McLeod’s Daughters.) Even a participant in “Grand Designs” hinted that his fixation on grand Aussie homes was somewhat rebellious! He might not have used those exact words, but you get the drift. Rarely do we see people worldwide transforming tiny townhouses and pint-sized apartments into remarkably cozy homes—more so than the dreams spun by the girls from McLeod’s.

Now, I’ve come to love the concept of “too small.” I adore compact spaces. I dream of curling up to the 16th, slipping into an envelope, and surrendering myself to a petite mail slot belonging to a small beret-wearing rabbit. That said, I must admit: some of these dwellings don’t feel small at all!

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“Is this small?” I sometimes ask my partner while enjoying toast. “Is this truly small?” he returns, as we both get lost in the ambiguity. Which one is “smaller”? Is it simply a trick of perception? These spaces even feature courtyards!

The viewing area—so crucial at the start of each episode—is undeniably charming. “I live in a tiny house, and I don’t complain about it,” you might think, but do you have a Wes Anderson-inspired décor? Or perhaps a community library with great ventilation? What about a cabin where you can sleep under the stars (while still in bed; after all, you’re not a caveman)? If not, then these diminutive homes are uniquely special.

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It’s intriguing how these spaces evolve. (It’s disheartening when an owner describes their previous space as “monotonous,” as it resembles their current apartment closely.) The bus is often the first to go, and I find myself in the way. If they enjoy dining out, the oven might also be sacrificed. Occasionally, there’s neither a bathtub nor an oven, but rather a climbing wall instead.

The hosts are always impeccably dressed, stylish sneakers on their feet, engaging in fascinating activities. Even their pets seem to have a deeper understanding of life (you can just tell by the raised eyebrows). “When hosting dinner parties, we pull out this custom bench seat to accommodate 8-10 guests,” they boast. Can you imagine being someone who hosts a dinner party? Picture knowing 8-10 people!

The renowned writer, scientist, and sage Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once mused about life’s complexities. Yet, I find tranquility in observing others’ clever homes via video. We’re all just a recycled wooden dining table or a small piano away from pure bliss. Let’s not shy away; embrace the beauty of being too small.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Australian Mom Considers “Cryogenic” Solution for Son After Heartbreaking Loss

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Australian actress Claire McCann aims to raise funds to “freeze” her 13-year-old son’s body following his tragic passing from suicide. McCann shared insights with NBC News’ Gaddy Schwartz regarding the future possibilities of cryogenic science, especially in light of her son’s experiences with bullying.May 29, 2025

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Are Slate Auto Electric Trucks the Solution to High Car Prices?

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Social media buzzed with reactions when startup Slate Auto unveiled its electric pickup truck priced at approximately $25,000 last month. The vehicle’s simplistic design features a silent body and nostalgic hand crank windows.

How wild is it? According to Cox Automotive, average monthly payments for new vehicles surged to $739 in March, up from $537 in January 2019. The average cost of a new car is now $47,400, while electric models are around $59,200. The high interest rate, currently about 9.4% on a 72-month loan, has further strained finances for buyers.

“Prices and interest rates are exceptionally high,” stated Mark Schirmer, director of industry insights at Cox Automotive. “For consumers who haven’t been in the market since 2018, the cost of a vehicle might seem shocking.”

President Trump’s 25% tariffs on imported automobiles and parts have prompted consumers to buy now, fearing further price increases. Cars priced below $30,000 are particularly vulnerable, with nearly 80% facing these tariffs. This includes popular models like the American-made Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The supply of budget-friendly models is expected to dwindle as automakers may cease the importation of certain vehicles entirely.

Enter Slate, a suburban Detroit startup backed by venture capital and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

Former Fiat executive Chris Berman, now CEO of Slate, mentioned that their trucks won’t be available until late 2026 but are intentionally designed to alleviate sticker shock.

True to its name, the truck serves as a blank canvas, enabling buyers to customize with over 100 accessories, such as power windows and heated seats, as their budgets allow or needs evolve. While it lacks built-in stereo or touchscreen display, it features a dock for phones and tablets, which saves costs and helps avoid the digital obsolescence often seen in car entertainment systems.

“I believe hardworking Americans are seeking value for their money,” Berman expressed in a recent interview.

This message resonated with 41-year-old Liv Leigh, who secured a slate truck reservation during its public debut at Long Beach Airport in California last April, paying $50 to do so.

She observed Slate employees convert the two-seat pickup into a five-seater SUV in just about an hour. Lee values the compact size of the truck, which is smaller than a Civic, along with its moderate 150-mile range.

“I love the concept of a utilitarian truck, a basic model that can handle dogs, muddy bikes, and plywood easily,” Lee remarked. “We don’t need a massive vehicle for our needs.”

Berman emphasized that efficient design and manufacturing are critical to maintaining the low price of their trucks. The grey plastic composite body panels eliminate the necessity for costly steel body stamping facilities or paint shops.

Just as the Ford Model T was available only in black, the Slate grants buyers a choice of 13 colors of vinyl body wraps for an additional $500. Customers can also opt for larger factory-installed batteries that extend the range to 240 miles.

“This approach keeps costs down while offering customers the freedom of choice,” said Berman. “They can customize their vehicles as per their preferences rather than adhering to manufacturer standards.”

Slate anticipates that its US-based supply chain, including batteries produced by South Korea’s SK On, will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit. However, some Republican lawmakers recently introduced a budget bill that removes this incentive and dismantles other Biden-era climate and energy policies.

Success hinges on Slate’s ability to navigate the treacherous landscape of electric vehicle startups, as several young manufacturers like Fisker, Nikola, and Canoo have sought bankruptcy protection.

Regardless of subsidies, Berman remains optimistic about Slate’s business strategy.

The company aims to price the truck around $20,000 before any government incentives, hoping to become a contender against the Nissan Leaf, which is the most affordable electric vehicle at $29,300 but no longer qualifies for tax credits. Chevrolet is set to release a redesigned Bolt SUV for roughly $30,000 by year-end, which will qualify for a tax credit, reducing its effective price to about $22,500.

Erin Keating, executive analyst at Cox Automotive, has praised the slate truck’s originality. However, she noted that the two-seat pickup’s short range and minimalistic interiors might not attract American buyers accustomed to high-tech features and comforts.

“There’s no harm in attempting to resolve the affordability crisis, but I question whether this will become a high-volume seller,” Keating commented. “Ultimately, this is a compact EV that offers very little. It doesn’t improve the array of affordable options with longer ranges.”

The Ford Maverick poses a potential challenge to the Slate, as its compact pickup is two feet longer, seating five passengers and featuring even more amenities. The hybrid version achieves 40 miles per gallon, with over 500 miles of range on a full tank.

Ford sold 131,000 Mavericks last year, indicating substantial demand for small, fuel-efficient trucks. The company has raised the starting price for hybrid versions to $28,150 as of 2024 due to tariffs on trucks assembled in Mexico. Ford confirmed that it would not pass on the entire tariff burden to consumers, offering vehicles at a price equivalent to employee sales until early July.

As with all vehicle types, American pickups have morphed dramatically over the years, with some extravagant models costing as much as luxury European sedans. Electric trucks from Tesla, Rivian, and Ford range from $70,000 to $100,000 or even higher.

Berman is keeping an eye on market opportunities for personas such as entry-level truck enthusiasts, families seeking a second vehicle, empty-nesters, landscapers, contractors, and delivery personnel. The company anticipates selling more trucks to customers who would typically opt for used cars, with an average price point estimated at $26,000.

A significant hurdle for Slate and other firms aiming to sell more affordable vehicles is that many Americans don’t appear to be purchasing such offerings, despite their stated preferences.

Keating highlighted that around 20 models currently available start below $25,000, predominantly small cars or SUVs, including the $18,300 Nissan Versa, the lowest-priced car on the market.

Almost all mid-sized family sedans start below $30,000, including popular models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata. Yet, many Americans favor larger vehicles; SUVs, pickups, and minivans now comprise over 80% of the market.

Trump’s trade policies remain unpredictable. Analysts hope tariffs will add thousands to new car prices, subsequently increasing demand and prices for used vehicles.

In April alone, Americans purchased 1.5 million new cars, 400,000 more than in April 2024. However, analysts have noted that buyers are acting now to avoid being caught in a crunch later. Jonathan Smoke, chief economist at Cox Automotive, mentioned that new car inventories have reached their lowest point in two years, indicating potential price increases as dealerships sell out ahead of impending tariffs. Meanwhile, S&P Global Mobility has reduced its forecasts for new car sales, anticipating a 4% decline this year.

For those seeking refuge amidst financial uncertainty, electric vehicles present a sound investment, according to Keating. New electric vehicles received an average discount of 13.3% in March, translating to savings of nearly $8,000.

Lee recently leased a Chevrolet Equinox for two years, paying $5,500 upfront, resulting in a monthly payment of $230. The electric SUV boasts a 319-mile range. “Many people aren’t aware of the extensive incentives available,” she noted.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Research suggests we have found a quick solution to eliminate wrinkles and grey hair forever.

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A recent study has discovered several potential anti-aging treatments that could help prevent wrinkles and gray hair development.

Published in the journal Endocrine review, this research suggests that certain naturally occurring hormones might be able to slow down the aging process in the body.

“Our study sheds light on key hormones that play a role in regulating pathways associated with skin aging, including connective tissue degradation (which leads to wrinkles), stem cell survival, and pigment loss (which causes graying of hair),” explained Professor Markus Böhm from the University of Munster, Germany.

“Some of these hormones have shown anti-aging properties and could potentially be used as treatments to prevent skin aging in the future.”

The primary focus of this research was to examine the connection between hormones and aging, with a particular emphasis on hormones like estrogen, growth hormone, and melatonin, all of which can impact skin aging.

One hormone that stood out in the study was melatonin. While commonly known for its role in regulating sleep, melatonin was found to also play a role in maintaining youthful skin. Its powerful antioxidant effects help protect skin cells and slow the aging process.

Other hormones, such as melanocyte-stimulating hormone and oxytocin, were also identified as potential contributors to maintaining youthful skin and hair and protecting against UV damage.

The skin, being the body’s largest organ, is prone to damage from environmental factors, especially UV rays from the sun.

“The skin not only responds to various hormones that impact skin aging pathways, but it is also a significant site for hormone production, aside from the traditional endocrine glands like the pituitary gland,” added Böhm.

Researchers are hopeful that these findings will lead to the development of a new anti-aging therapy known as Senotherapeutics, which targets and eliminates senescent cells. By doing so, these drugs may help slow down or even reverse the signs of aging that result from the accumulation of these cells in the body over time.

“Further research on these hormones could pave the way for the development of new treatments to address and prevent skin aging,” concluded Böhm.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Diamond Wafers for Electronics: A Thin and Adhesive Solution

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Ultra-flexible thin diamond wafer

This thin diamond wafer is also very flexible

Nature, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-08218-x

A new method of using adhesive tape to create ultrathin diamond wafers could aid in the production of diamond-based electronics, which may one day provide a useful alternative to silicon-based designs.

Diamond is an excellent insulator, and at the same time has unusual electronic properties that allow electrons with a certain energy to move with little resistance. This means it can handle high energy with higher efficiency than traditional silicon chip designs.

However, manufacturing practical diamond chips requires large, very thin wafers, similar to the thin silicon wafers used to make modern computer chips, which have proven difficult to create.

now, Chu Zhiqing and colleagues at the University of Hong Kong have discovered a way to use adhesive tape to fabricate extremely thin and flexible diamond wafers.

Chu and his colleagues first embedded nano-sized diamonds in a small silicon wafer and then sprayed methane gas at high temperatures onto them to form a continuous, thin sheet of diamond. Next, we made a small crack on one side of the pasted diamond sheet, and then used regular adhesive tape to peel off the diamond layer.

They say that this exfoliated diamond sheet is extremely thin, less than a micrometer, much thinner than a human hair, and smooth enough to use the kind of etching techniques used to make silicon chips. I discovered.

“This is very reminiscent of the early days of graphene, when cellophane tape was used to produce the first monolayers of graphene from graphite. I never imagined this concept would be applied to diamond. “I did,” he says. julie macpherson At the University of Warwick, UK.

“This new edge-exposed delamination method will enable numerous device designs and experimental approaches,” he says. Mete Atature at Cambridge University. One area that could be particularly useful is increasing control over quantum devices that use diamonds as sensors, he says.

Chu and his colleagues say the diamond films they can produce are about 5 centimeters in diameter, showing that the method works as a proof of principle. andrea ferrari But that’s smaller than the 20 to 30 centimeters that are standard in many wafer processes, and it’s not clear whether the new method can be scaled up, he says.

The manufactured wafers also appear to be polycrystalline, but they are not as smooth and regular as single-crystal diamond, which may limit their use in some applications, McPherson said.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Researches have created a sustainable and eco-conscious fashion solution

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The textile and leather industries pollute water through dyeing and tanning, and plastic pollution from synthetic fibers. In particular, the chemicals used by synthetic chemical manufacturers to dye clothing, especially black dyes for leather, pollute the environment. To solve this problem, researchers at Imperial College, London, bacteria produced Eco-friendly, self-pigmenting, animal-free leather.

Researchers studied a group of bacteria called . Komagata Eibacter We produce an environmentally friendly leather alternative called . bacterial cellulose. They explained that bacterial cellulose is advantageous because it is durable, long-lasting, easily grown from waste materials such as fruit juice, and biodegradable. It is also cheap to produce and is used in many industrial applications, including electronic equipment and wound dressings to cover and protect wounds. Designers love it because it's sustainable and uses more natural materials instead of petroleum-based materials.

The researchers wanted to modify the bacteria's genes so that they could produce both bacterial cellulose and a black pigment that protects from sunlight and absorbs harmful substances. melanin. They hypothesized that melanin could make cellulose more versatile by making it stronger and protecting it from sunlight, allowing it to be used in new applications such as environmentally friendly sunscreens and pollutant-absorbing materials. I did.

To do this, the researchers Komagata Eibacter 2 types of liquid food, or culture media: One was made from glucose and the other from coconut water. They sterilized these fluids to make sure they were clean and sterile. They introduced new genetic material into the bacteria's DNA using a process called . electroporation. The new genetic material contained a special type of circular DNA that enabled the bacteria to produce melanin.

First, the genetically modified bacteria are grown normally. They then added ingredients that “start” melanin production, such as L-tyrosine, the building block of melanin, and copper sulfate, a catalyst that accelerates the process. To see how much melanin the bacteria produced, they measured how dark the culture medium became. This was a good indicator of melanin levels. To see if different conditions change the amount of melanin produced by bacteria, the researchers experimented with different pH levels, amounts of salt, and metals that can affect the amount of melanin produced by bacteria. I tried.

Next, the researchers Komagata Eibacter They produce a special type of melanin called melanin that produces a dark brown to black color. eumelanin. To force the bacteria to produce eumelanin, the researchers further modified the bacteria's genes. Specifically, they added a gene that causes the bacteria to produce an enzyme called Tyr1, which helps stimulate melanin production. They used this genetic change to create a unique bacterial strain that could continuously produce eumelanin.

Once they had these genetically modified bacteria, they conducted experiments to control the amount of eumelanin produced by the bacteria. They used a method called pyrolysis, which allows scientists to use light to control the behavior of cells. optogenetics. In this case, exposing the bacteria to blue light caused them to produce more eumelanin. The light also caused some bacteria to produce another protein that turned red. The researchers used this red color to track how well the light-induced process worked. The researchers looked at how much eumelanin these engineered bacteria produced under different conditions so they could better control melanin production.

Researchers discovered that when bacteria produce melanin, they form a mat-like layer that retains moisture. They interpreted this result to mean that adding melanin to different materials can change their surface properties. To demonstrate how melanin can be used in leather-based products, researchers created sample items such as wallets and shoe uppers from a mixture of bacterial cellulose and melanin. It was confirmed that adding melanin to cellulose increases durability. The researchers found that the melanin remained stable even after treatments such as high-pressure steam and ethanol cleaning, meaning it was strong enough to withstand real-world use.

The researchers suggested that future work should discover enzymes that can produce melanin under acidic conditions, requiring less water for production. Especially when melanin is used in large-scale production, the process becomes more environmentally friendly and efficient if less water is used. Finally, they encouraged scientists and designers to continue working together to develop innovative ways to create sustainable textiles that make fashion more environmentally friendly.


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Source: sciworthy.com

The solution to the mysterious link between clouds and climate

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Eric S. Neitzel Fireground Communications LLC/AdobeStock

Central Park Reservoir is one of the few places in New York City to get a good view of the clouds. Looking north from the reservoir’s edge, there’s a large gap between the buildings that lets you see the clouds rolling in from the harbor. Meteorologist Kara Lamb suggested we try our hand at cloud watching here.

At the time, the sky is full of fluffy cumulus clouds beneath a ceiling of altostratus. One of them looks a lot like a whale. But Lam, who studies clouds at Columbia University in New York, doesn’t think they’re so strange. “Clouds are fascinating because they’re cool to look at,” he says. “But I think about clouds in terms of climate” – understanding how the sunlight they reflect and the heat they trap beneath them affect the Earth’s temperature.

What the casual cloud watcher might not know is that clouds are the biggest unknown in predicting future climate change to determine how this balance will change in a warming world. If we double carbon dioxide from pre-industrial levels, will the world get a manageable 1.5°C warming or a hellish 4.5°C warming? The biggest source of this uncertainty is our lack of understanding of clouds.

But researchers are making progress. Lamb is looking at ice crystals in the clouds, which play a surprisingly large role in influencing the climate. Some researchers are using cloud chambers, and are planning to set up cloud chambers…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Possible solution to long-standing breastfeeding mystery discovered

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This may solve one of the mysteries of breastfeeding.

Svetlana Lepnitskaya/Getty Images

A newly discovered hormone discovered in mice may solve a long-standing mystery about how adult bones stay strong under the stress of breastfeeding, a discovery that could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle.

For decades, it was unclear how bones maintain their strength during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding removes calcium from bones to produce nutritious breast milk. Breastfeeding also reduces levels of estrogen, a hormone essential for bone health. Temporary loss of bone mass This will resolve within 6-12 months after breastfeeding ends.

While conducting research unrelated to this conundrum, Holly Ingraham Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco have found that targeting receptors in the hypothalamus of the brain to inhibit estrogen production actually strengthens the bones of female mice.

“It's a bit of a paradox that we're eliminating estrogen signaling, which is thought to be beneficial for bone, and then creating women with extremely dense bones,” Ingraham said.

To find out why, they bred female mice that lacked estrogen receptors and had unusually strong bones, then surgically mated these animals with other female mice that had the receptors, linking their circulatory systems.

After 17 weeks, the mice that had been attached to the strong-bone mice had an average 152 percent increase in bone mass, suggesting that a bone-strengthening substance was circulating in the blood and being transferred from the mice that didn't have the receptor to the ones that did. Subsequent experiments revealed that this substance was a brain hormone called CCN3.

The researchers then measured CCN3 in the brains of female mice before and after pregnancy and found that it is only produced during lactation. Moreover, blocking the hormone caused bone loss in lactating mice, suggesting that it may be the mysterious molecule that prevents bone loss during lactation. This finding suggests that CCN3 may be used to repair bone in other situations as well.

To explore this further, the researchers placed patches containing CCN3 on four male mice that had suffered fractures. An equal number of animals received patches that did not contain the hormone. All rodents were 2 years old. 69 years in humans.

After three weeks, mice with the CCN3 patch had an average of 240% more bone mass than mice without the patch, suggesting that CCN3 may be useful in treating or preventing osteoporosis, which affects more than one million people. 12 percent Among U.S. adults age 50 and older.

But it's unclear whether these findings apply to humans, Ingraham said. She and her colleagues are developing a blood test for CCN3 that will allow them to test whether levels of the hormone increase in breastfeeding women.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Technology: Can AI truly be the solution to our ailing healthcare system?

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What if AI isn’t as great as we thought? What if its potential has been exaggerated to the point of being dangerous? Leading cancer experts in the NHS are raising concerns that the health service’s excessive focus on new technology is jeopardizing patient safety. As reported in our recent article:


Cancer experts warn that “innovative solutions” like new diagnostic tests are being falsely hailed as a “magic bullet” for the cancer crisis, but fail to address the root cause of cancer as a systemic issue.

The authors note that a common misconception among NHS leaders is that new technologies can eliminate inequalities, when in reality, technologies like AI can create additional hurdles for those with low digital and health literacy.

“We advise against adopting a technology-centric approach without a thorough evaluation of equity,” concludes the paper.

The Lancet Oncology publication argues for a back-to-basics strategy for cancer treatment. Their suggestions include increasing staff numbers, refocusing research on traditional areas such as surgery and radiation therapy, and establishing dedicated units for technology transfer to ensure proven treatments are integrated into routine care.

AI may divert attention from these critical improvements. While the technology holds much promise for the future, experts are concerned that hype about future advancements may detract from necessary present-day changes.

The paper describes AI as the latest iteration of “bionic duckweed,” a concept introduced by Stian Westlake in 2020 to highlight the use of future technologies to oppose current investments.
(Read More)

Source: www.theguardian.com

Artificial turf equipped with self-cooling technology offers solution for cities facing extreme weather

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At a test site in Amsterdam, self-cooling artificial turf was tested against regular artificial turf.

Joris Forten

By absorbing rainwater and allowing it to evaporate on hot days, artificial turf stays much cooler than regular artificial grass. Self-cooling turf protects athletes from burns and heat stroke and helps cities manage stormwater.

Such surfaces are already in use in Amsterdam, London and Kobe, Japan, he said. Marjolein van Huygevoort At the KWR Water Resources Institute in Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.

“A normal lawn stays cool because the grass itself evaporates,” she says, “so this system mimics that natural situation by letting the water rise and evaporate.”

Van Huygevoort says many cities and sports venues are installing artificial turf fields because overuse can damage natural grass. Even in warm climates like those in Northern Europe, the sun can heat the plastic surface to about 70°C (158°F), not only damaging the health of athletes but also warming the air in urban areas, a situation that will only get worse with global warming, he says.

Inspired by A “blue-green roof” that collects rainwater for a cooling effectVan Huygevoort and her colleagues built a toy-sized mock-up of the playground in a climate-controlled lab, with a water-retention unit below the surface topped with a two-centimeter-thick cushioning pad with thin irrigation cylinders embedded inside.

Filled with mineral wool fibres that act like a sponge, these “capillaries” slowly wick water up into a thin layer of sand at the bottom of the artificial turf surface. In a heated laboratory environment, the irrigated water evaporates from the sand, creating a cooling effect on the surface.

Encouraged by these results, the team built a 25-square-metre test site in Amsterdam containing irrigated natural grass. During a heatwave that recorded a maximum temperature of 29.8°C (86°F), the conventional artificial grass reached 62.5°C (145°F). The researchers found that Self-cooling lawnBut the temperature never rose above 37°C (99°F), just 1.7°C warmer than on a natural grass field. Even the air above the water-cooled turf was cooler, which helped keep temperatures down across the city, van Huygevoort said.

The system is based on a design in which the rate at which the water level rises and the evaporative cooling process depend on various natural factors, such as weather conditions. “So water only evaporates when there is a demand for cooling,” says van Huygevoort.

A reservoir beneath the grass can store about 512,000 litres of rainwater beneath the floor of a standard 100-metre by 64-metre football pitch, she says, and capillaries in the buffer pad can store another 96,000 litres, meaning the field should be useful for absorbing large amounts of water during storms, van Huygevoort says.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Meta conveys that news does not serve as a solution to misinformation on its platform, according to Australian Media.

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Meta maintains its stance against paying media companies for news in Australia, arguing that it does not address the issue of misinformation and disinformation on Facebook and Instagram.

In March, Meta announced that it would not engage in new agreements with media organizations to pay for news fees after the expiration of contracts signed in 2021 under the Morrison government’s media bargaining code.

Deputy Treasurer Stephen Jones is exploring the possibility of the Albanese government using powers under the News Media Bargaining Code Act to “designate” Meta under the code. If designated, the tech company would be compelled to negotiate payments with news providers or face a fine of 10% of its revenue in Australia.

The Treasury Department is also exploring other options, such as mandating the company to distribute news or leveraging taxation to influence the company. The government is concerned that designating Meta under the code could result in a ban in Australia, similar to what occurred in Canada since August last year.

Experts in Canada have noted that where news content has disappeared, it has been replaced by misleading viral content.

In a submission to a federal parliamentary inquiry on social media and Australian society, Meta stated that they are “unaware of any evidence” supporting claims that misinformation has increased on their Canadian platforms due to the news ban, and that they have never viewed news as a tool to combat misinformation and disinformation on their platform.

“We are committed to removing harmful misinformation and reducing the distribution of fact-checked misinformation, regardless of whether it is news content. By addressing this harmful content, we aim to maintain the integrity of information on our platform,” stated the submission.

“Canadians can still access trusted information from various sources using our services, including government agencies, political parties, and non-government organizations, which have always shared engaging information with their audiences, along with news content links.”

www.theguardian.com

Solution found for mysterious deaths of black-headed gulls in Denmark

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Pet participation

What exactly can dogs offer cities? The answer is coming soon.

Reader Dorothy Sheckler informed Feedback that Brad D. Lee of the University of Kentucky will be presenting his views at the Soil & Water Conservation Association conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on July 22, 2024. What will Lee’s presentation topic be?Nutritional contributions of pet dogs in urban peri-urban environments” “.

Tensions may be palpable during the talks, as the host city announced that dogs will only be allowed on beaches this summer before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m., and owners “must pick up and properly dispose of their feces.”

Mussel-bound Death

Through investigation and international cooperation, two preserved bodies that had long been forgotten were rediscovered.

Keith Moeliker, a biologist who studies surprising animal behavior (he discovered homosexual necrophilia in mallards, according to feedback on February 10, 2024), tells us what happened.

“The fate of Denmark’s black-headed gulls is dramatic.Chroicocephalus ridibundus“In 1952 a seagull stepped on a freshwater clam,” he writes, “and the clam closed its valve and refused to let go. The proof, of the seagull (now dead) with the clam still attached to its right foot, was found in an old photograph I found in the depths of the Internet.”

Mölliker learned that the photo was taken at the Hunting and Forestry Museum in Hörsholm, eastern Denmark. In 2017, the museum moved to and became part of another institution, the Green Museum in Auning, western Denmark. As is often the case with large and diverse museum collections, some treasures were safely stored but largely unnoticed. Mölliker got in touch with the Green Museum curator, who picked up the twin objects (officially named JSH 05542) from their resting place on a long shelf in a heavily refrigerated building.

“In April 2024, I was allowed to observe the black-headed gull in the museum’s collection storage facility and was able to take this photograph,” Moeliker continues (see below). “There I learned more: the gull had not died embracing the mussels, but had been shot together with the mussels near Solo on Zealand. [Denmark]Another special item from the same Danish collection is JHS 05924, the leg of a herring gull that was found trapped inside a half-open tin can in 1954.”

Mustache denial

Feedback consulted with native Iranian (or, in the ChatGPT era, human, if you prefer) translators to solve this puzzling mystery. Several recent studies published in Iranian research journals use strange wording in their titles. Here are three examples:

“Analysis of the economic diplomacy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in international relations with emphasis on the rule of negation of the moustache“, published in Strategic Studies of Jurisprudence and Law.

“A jurisprudential explanation of the show of force and the build-up of Iran’s military defense capabilities, approaching the rule of mustache negation“, published in Protection and Security Research.

“The role of the moustache ban in the Islamic Republic’s foreign policy and international relationsPublished in ” Iranian Journal of Political Sociology.

Each paper is written in a mixture of Persian and Arabic, and includes a synopsis written in English, which includes a reference to “Moustache” as well as each title.

Why the moustache? Feedback’s language consultant was astonished. “Because the translator of the paper is a complete idiot!! The word for “path” in Arabic is [of doing something]’ is sometimes called SavilePersian [Farsi], Sybil It means “mustache.” The translator might just be Google.

The world will now find out what impact these moustache-twirling papers will have on international diplomatic relations.

Mustache measurement

While pursuing the intricacies of mustache negation rules, Feedback stumbled upon a (possibly unrelated) study published in 1982:Survival curves and growth rates of mustache populationsThe paper, written by Cliff Frohlich and Ruth Buskirk, reports measurements of “three previously unstudied characteristics of mustaches: hair length distribution, hair growth rate, and rate of hair shedding or weathering,” all of which were measured on “unshaven mustaches of 30-year-old Caucasian men.”

Eleven years later, Frohlich cited Mustache’s paper, studyPublished in Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earthdiscussed the subtle mathematical aspects of measuring earthquake strength. He noted that, like mustache growth, “earthquakes are just one of many phenomena for which a logarithmic plot of number versus magnitude is approximately a straight line.”

Marc Abrahams is the founder of the Ig Nobel Prize ceremony and co-founder of the journal Annals of Improbable Research. He previously worked on unusual uses of computers. His website is Impossible

Do you have a story for feedback?

You can submit articles for Feedback by emailing feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week’s and past Feedback can be found on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Arbitrum Orbit and Gelato RaaS Join Forces to Create AI-Powered Layer 3 Gaming Solution on Blockchain

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Zug, Switzerland, April 17, 2024, Chainwire

abnormalityannounced the launch of the first AI-powered zero-gas layer 3 gaming platform leveraging play-to-airdrop mechanics to reach Telegram's 900 million daily active users.mounted arbitram orbit and use gelato Rollup as a service, Anomaly’s new Layer-3 fully abstracts the complexity of blockchain while leveraging an AI-enabled game engine to enable developers to create immersive, decentralized gaming experiences at unprecedented speed. We plan to redefine the gaming industry by allowing you to create.

Anomaly streamlines the UX of blockchain games with account abstraction, enables user onboarding through social platforms, and leverages SocialFi for game monetization. At the core of the new game layer 3 are: Abnormal SDKThis enables advanced AI features such as AI-driven matchmaking, decision-making, player model training, automatic quest creation, and asset generation in Web3 games. This aims to save developer time, address the cost challenges of AI integration, and significantly improve user engagement and experience within the Anomaly gaming ecosystem.

“At Anomaly, we are not just launching another gaming platform. We are pioneering a new paradigm for Web3 gaming, which will fundamentally change the blockchain gaming industry,” said Long Do, founder of Anomaly. says. “Anomaly Layer-3 acts as a decentralized gaming layer with a native AI technology stack to facilitate interoperability and platform experience.”

Utilization of Arbitrum anytrust DAC technology, the Anomaly Layer-3 Orbit chain inherits a fast, secure, and scalable execution environment, boasting 250ms block times with near-instantaneous transaction finality, processing thousands of transactions per second, It stands out as one of the fastest EVM Layer-3. Commercial roll-up. The chain features the native gas token $nom, which ensures smooth navigation between game areas.

“Anomaly’s implementation of the Arbitrum Orbit technology stack addresses fundamental problems encountered by blockchain games,” said Cooper Midroni, Product Manager at Offchain Labs. “The Anomaly Layer-3 ecosystem will allow on-chain games to offer the same level of fun and seamless experience as traditional games.”

The chain operates with a gasless user experience designed to provide a Web2-like user experience gameplay. Start with Gelato, Gelato's industry standard Web3 service. relay person, Web3 featuresand VRF. These services enable fully automated and immersive gaming experiences and provide a verified on-chain randomness source for fair gameplay. The chain will also soon be equipped with key infrastructure such as the Blockscout block explorer, which provides easy access to block, transaction, and address data, and a standard bridge UI serviced by Gelato.

“Anomaly came to us looking for a future-proof gaming platform that would support millions of users,” explained Hilmar Orth, founder of Gelato. “We have created a game-centric, full-service, auto-scalable, layer 3 infrastructure that allows Anomaly to attract community and liquidity, and ultimately support distribution.”

Anomaly Layer-3 will also leverage Gelato's latest Node-Sale-as-a-Service solution to sell validation node licenses and enable the community to participate in securing Anomaly's infrastructure. , harden rollup security. Anomaly's launch will feature a private sale of AI-based node NFTs to Telegram's early supporters, highlighting the platform's focus on a community-driven ecosystem. Additionally, Anomaly makes it easy for all users to operate their nodes using a cloud-based subscription that can be done by paying monthly directly within Telegram.

Anomaly is revolutionizing Web3 gaming by working with the Telegram, Discord, and Farcaster communities. This approach provides an in-platform gaming experience that accommodates users wherever they are, avoids onboarding challenges, abstracts blockchain complexity, and provides an experience comparable to Web2 gaming.

About anomalies

abnormality is an avant-garde AI game studio and layer 3 blockchain innovator poised to redefine gaming by fusing Web3 and SocialFi and leveraging AI to create immersive experiences. Anomaly is at the forefront of gaming evolution, focused on leveraging the synergies of AI and blockchain. The studio is dedicated to rapid game development and deployment, community engagement through social platforms, and innovative approaches to gaming, setting new benchmarks in interactive entertainment.

About Arbitram Foundation

of Arbitrum Founded in March 2023, the Foundation supports and grows the Arbitrum network and community by securely scaling Ethereum. Introduced in March 2023, Arbitrum Orbit is a permissionless path to launch customizable, dedicated L2 and L3 orbit chains using Arbitrum technology. Arbitrum Orbit leverages secure, scalable, and cost-effective blockchain scaling technology to enable features such as custom gas tokens, dedicated throughput, customizable permissions, and interoperability. Over 25 Orbit chains have been officially announced, and over 50 more are in active development to date.

About gelato

gelato All-in-one Ethereum rollup as a service platform Built without limits. Designed to be ultra-fast, incredibly secure, and infinitely scalable, Gelato Rollups provides full-service Layer 2 and Layer 3 chains that are natively integrated with industry-standard Web3 tools and services. Anyone can build, deploy, and launch a production-ready Web3 development environment. One click.

contact

head of marketing
Ella Jonas
Gelato Digital GmbH
press@gelato.digital

Source: the-blockchain.com

Why recycling may not always be the most effective solution for combating climate change

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Recycling is not a silver bullet to stop climate destruction. Far from it. Potential Impact – Savings of approximately 11 gigatons of carbon dioxide (CO2) over 30 years. Even if the world recycled more than 80 percent of its municipal waste, that amount would be overshadowed by the greenhouse gases emitted by fossil fuels and industry – a staggering 36.8 gigatons in 2022 alone.

In the UK, it is estimated that recycling 18 million tons of CO2 annually. This is equivalent to removing five million cars from the road. While promising, it is only a very small fraction of the emissions generated by fossil fuels and industry each year, which are about 200 times greater than those from agriculture and the global fashion industry.

These numbers may be discouraging, but what can an individual do to help?

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

First and foremost, do not give up on recycling. It is a simple way to reduce landfill waste and slow down the depletion of the earth’s resources.

To put into perspective the impact of recycling, dividing the 18 million tonnes by the UK’s population of 67 million, the average Briton is saving about 269kg of CO2 per year through recycling.

According to DEFRA, Britons recycled 44% of household waste in 2021. By recycling 100% of household waste, an individual could save up to 610kg per year.

If you truly want to make a difference, focus on making sustainable choices early on in the consumption process. Opt for loose fruits and vegetables, solid detergents, repair and reuse old clothes, and most importantly, buy less.

Emphasize the Reduce and Reuse aspects of the 3R mantra and resort to recycling only when other options are exhausted.

Let’s Start With One Thing

If you feel overwhelmed, start by making one sustainable change at a time. For example, by using a reusable water bottle instead of plastic ones, you can save 20kg of CO2 per year.

A review of thousands of studies worldwide suggests that changes like taking fewer long-haul flights, using public transport, and improving home energy efficiency are significant in reducing household carbon footprints.

While recycling alone may not be the solution to climate change, it is a step in the right direction. Each individual has the power to make a positive impact.

This article addresses the question posed by Jensen Pitts via email: “Can recycling really make a difference?”

If you have any questions, please email us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out to us via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (don’t forget to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Feeling Anxious About Kids and Cell Phones is Normal, but Banning is not the Solution – Zoe Williams

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I I received a message from a former colleague, a once cheerful person who is now a provocateur of “alt-right” nostalgia to an aging society. Whatever he wanted, I would have told him to get on with it, but it just so happened that I didn't really agree with it: campaign to limit children's cell phone use. It is a bipartisan organization that

As surely as anything bad happens to children, people will blame it on phone use. Perhaps there is a crisis in their mental health, someone is being bullied online, someone is being threatened over an image they have sent, they are part of a criminal organization, part of a murderous enterprise, or they are committing self-harm. You may be doing this. Somewhere in the story, smartphones probably don't play a role. Those affected often wish they had limited their phone use, or at the very least, are keenly aware that they had little knowledge of what was happening to their children, who of course were constantly on their phones. is used. Then politicians and pundits get involved, exploiting the sorrows and trials of others to their discursive advantage, lecturing schools on the measures they are already frequently implementing and forcing parents back to “dumb phones”; Preaching to kids to ban devices completely.

And steadily, it becomes another indicator of reputable parenting. If you're doing it right, your kids will get a Nokia at age 14 and won't know about Instagram until they're 25. And all the kids who have had iPhones since age 6 and can operate them with one thumb, they texted with their eyes closed, well, they were clearly poorly raised. The main reason I dislike such campaigns is that they turn parents into jailers whose authority they must circumvent, which I can't help but think inhibits openness. Beyond hard work, respect, and responsibility, I like to instill the values ​​of “tell me what's going on” above all else. No information is too small. Beef is not trivial. No gossip is too far away. If someone from a completely different age texted another person a shrimp emoji and that person mistook it for a sombrero, I'd love to hear about it. Also, if I want to spend a significant amount of time every day engaging in a fierce battle with a teenager, I want it to be about something important: which is better, a dog or a cat? How many crunches should I eat in a day? – It's not about compulsive phone checking behavior that's just as good as mine, or even slightly better.

But I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel scared multiple times a day looking at the state of modern connectivity. TikTok is basically a never-ending reinforcement exercise. If your hobbies are K-pop or cafes with animals, there's no problem. All you see is a nicer young Korean woman and a piglet drinking a cappuccino. When I was 14, I was so obsessed with trench warfare that I regularly thought I was going crazy. I don't even want to think what my social feed would look like, a combination of self-diagnosed mental illness and military recruitment ads.

Snapchat, on the other hand, works as if someone created the app out of a disturbing dream. What if everyone could see not only who you're talking to most of the time, but also who you're talking to? They are I was able to talk to the most people and rank entire circles by their asymmetrical loyalties and affiliations. Imagine if you could always see where everyone is with Snap Maps. But if you turn it off to avoid detection, you'll look suspicious and he'll probably start people gossiping about you on Snapchat. The level of hyper-surveillance that teens exert on each other is incredible. The last thing you want to do is rush in with an oar and make the situation worse.

But I think so, and I always say one thing: Whatever it is, it's not the end of the world. Today's social apocalypse will be tomorrow's boring anecdote. Yes, the internet has a very long memory, but it also has a lot going on at the same time. I don't have the strength to stay angry forever or even for two weeks. It's strange that no one has proposed a cross-party parenting campaign to help us all maintain a sense of balance. That should be our main job.

Zoe Williams is a columnist for the Guardian

Source: www.theguardian.com

Introducing Merlin Chain: A Native L2 Solution for Blockchain News, Opinion, TV, and Jobs

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New York, USA, January 31, 2024, Chainwire

This week, the long-awaited Bitcoin L2 solution Merlin Chain went live on testnet, with mainnet expected to launch within a month.

Bitcoin network congestion dilemma and scaling solutions

The evolution of Ordinals over the past year has brought renewed attention to the Bitcoin ecosystem after a long period of time. While increasing the excitement in the Bitcoin ecosystem, it is also increasing the depletion of network resources. Increasingly high transaction costs, combined with the rising price of Bitcoin itself, are further congesting the network and discouraging new users from getting interested in Bitcoin.

(Bitcoin daily average transaction fee $: YCharts)

The idea of ​​developing an EVM-compatible L2 network has been recognized as the first to yield results because the implementation path is simple.

Merlin Chain is also one of the EVM-compatible L2 chains and is developed by Bitmap Tech (formerly Recursiverse), the team that built the BRC-420 protocol and Bitmap.game, and is highly sought after by the community due to the team's past success. It is highly rated.

BRC-420

The BRC-420 protocol supports arbitrary file format combinations/recursion to form more complex inscriptions. Character images, game scripts, virtual machines, AI models, and more can all become Bitcoin assets.

Its core asset, Blue Box, has risen from a registration cost of $0.15 to an ATH floor price of $26,000, while other assets such as Minerals and Dis Song About NFT are the most actively traded on the OKX market. It's one of our assets. Today, we have over 1000 developers and 600+ collections, and our prices are only going up, not down, and we've been performing great even in bear markets.

bitmap games

Bitmap.Game is a fully on-chain, fully decentralized, and fair-launched Metaverse project. It is based on the digital matter theory underlying Bitcoin and is open sourced to be run or verified by any client, reflecting the concept of “client agnosticism” in a fully on-chain game.

During this time, Bitmap's market cap rose from $3 million to an ATH of $290 million. With over 30,000 owners, Bitmap has surpassed Sandbox as the metaverse asset with the most owners across all blockchains.

Unleash Bitcoin's potential with innovative magic

Merlin Chain believes that L2 for Bitcoin means more than just cheap transfers or the availability of DApps, it also means further innovation that unlocks Bitcoin's potential through native assets, users, and protocols. I think it should be something.

For example, how to create games based on bitmaps so that bitmap users can participate in different metauniverses at low cost, since bitmaps are fully decentralized assets. Or for DeFi protocols based on BRC-420, how to authorize NFTs and FTs in both directions. For Inscription Minting, we will discuss how to mint his L1 assets on L2 in a more cost-effective and flexible manner. Rather than replicating how Ethereum works, only these “Bitcoin-native” innovations can continue to power the ecosystem.

So far, Merlin Chain has built a strong DApp ecosystem, effectively addressed liquidity concerns, and plans further expansion.

Efficient and secure scaling with ZK-Rollup

Diverse ecosystems and assets also mean higher throughput requirements and some safety risks. To solve this problem, Merlin Chain adopted ZK-Rollup. This allows you to compress large numbers of transaction proofs into simple checksums, improving transaction efficiency and scalability.

Merlin Chain's sequencer nodes are responsible for collecting and batching transactions, generating compressed transaction data, ZK state roots, and proofs via zkEVM. Compressed transaction data and ZK proofs are uploaded to Bitcoin L1’s Taproot via the decentralized Oracle network and made available across the network, ensuring transparency and security.

Decentralized Oracle network nodes are required to stake $BTC to prevent inappropriate activity. Users can start challenging her ZK rollup based on compressed data, ZK state roots, and ZK proofs. If the challenge is successful, it will be rolled back to the last verified state and the Oracle node will lose its locked $BTC, ensuring the security and reliability of the system.

Through the integration of these technologies, Marlin Chain has demonstrated superior technical capabilities and is on track to build an efficient and secure native Bitcoin L2 solution.

Native integration – Merlin Chain’s Bitcoin-centric approach

Compared to other Bitcoin L2 attempts currently being attempted, one of the key features of Merlin Chain is that it is “Bitcoin native.”

Merlin Chain, which has been a strong believer in Bitcoin for many years, is very passionate about the development of the Bitcoin ecosystem, and rather than providing services to other ecosystems in the name of Bitcoin, Through my work, I aim to bring more users and assets to Bitcoin. Therefore, Merlin Chain appreciates the native nature of Bitcoin in its ecosystem of projects and users.

Additionally, Merlin Chain supports most of the major Bitcoin L1 protocols, including BRC-20, Bitmap, BRC-420, Atomicals, SRC20, and Pipe. All inscriptions on L1 will be automatically whitelisted by Merlin Chain, allowing users to trade safely and affordably.

In line with its pursuit of “Bitcoin Native”, Merlin Chain plans to adopt BRC-20 as its governance token. This makes much more sense than the other Bitcoin L2, which currently uses the Ethereum standard token as its governance token. Tokens will be released through a fair launch, with a 48-month release period that does not start within two years, with the exception of a portion that will be distributed to VCs and teams, to prove the interests of teams and investors. Trust in Marlin Chain.

Bridging the Gap – Simplifying Bitcoin Adoption and Accelerating Growth

Another tricky issue for Bitcoin ecosystem builders is the lack of new users and new capital. Ordinals continues to do well, but the number of active addresses has not increased significantly. It's the same group of people involved in different projects. The fundamental reason for this is Bitcoin's complexity. Not only does it require downloading a Bitcoin wallet, writing is also not very easy, the user has to spend at least 2 blocks of time writing, while for confirmation he has to spend 3 blocks of time , which is complex and complex. it takes time.

(Daily active Bitcoin address: Glassnode)

Marlin Chain solves this problem. Currently, Marlin Chain is connected to 40 Ethereum chains, so even users who are not familiar with Bitcoin can use familiar wallets such as Metamask and familiar assets such as stablecoins, $ETH, and $BNB. Masu. . Interact with Marlin Chain. A user doesn't need to know the principles behind Bitcoin, or even what BRC-20 or Atomic is, before he can experience Bitcoin the way it was meant to be in a familiar way.

To this end, Merlin Chain plans to integrate the first multi-chain writing DApp. This will allow users to write assets to other layers, including Bitcoin L1 on Merlin Chain. Only one block of time is required to wait. At the same time, the Launchpad is also available on the Marlin chain, with a mechanism that every inscription fired on it is rated at 100,000 FDV, and more users will be able to use the BRC-20/ BRC-420 You will be able to easily purchase assets such as /. Atomic/Runes at a very low price. Additionally, as part of its decentralization efforts, Merlin Chain plans to release most of its governance tokens to the community.

Users should stay tuned for the upcoming mainnet launch. The future of Bitcoin is about to unfold with Merlin Chain at the helm.

About Marlin Chain

Marlin Chain is a Bitcoin Layer2 that integrates the ZK-Rollup network, a decentralized oracle network, and an on-chain BTC anti-fraud module. Marlin Chain is committed to powering Bitcoin's native assets, protocols, and products on Layer 1 through the Layer 2 network to make Bitcoin fun again. Marlin Chain is a subsidiary product line of Bitmap Tech, his OG team of top-notch players with a combined market capitalization of over $500 million. The BRC-420 “Blue Box” collection under Bitmap Tech has become one of Ordinals’ most popular assets.

Users can start following Marlin Chain twitter For further updates.

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Source: the-blockchain.com

Overcoming the Midlife Spread: It’s Not About Metabolism, But We Have the Solution

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Few life milestones are less glamorous and ritualistic than the arrival of middle age. Our skin becomes visibly looser, we get more gray hair, and of course our clothes usually start to feel a little tighter, especially around the waist.

The last one is known as the midlife spread, and it's a commonly accepted idea that as we get older, we start to gain weight around our abdomen. This extra weight is said to be easier to gain and less stable than when we were younger, and it is thought that our active metabolism may slow down as we age. You can no longer get away with consuming this much, and your efforts to get rid of your stomach through diet and exercise will become a losing battle.

So far so miserable. However, in July last year, A study of more than 6,000 people around the world quickly debunked this idea.. It showed that our metabolism remains remarkably stable as we age, at least until our 60s. “From age 20 to age 60, the amount of calories you burn per day is about the same,” says Herman Pontzer of Duke University in North Carolina. “It turns out we have a much lower ability to control our metabolism than we thought.” This will be welcome news for those approaching the age of 45 (usually defined as those between 45 and 65) and facing a frightening epidemic. But that leaves a burning question: If metabolism isn't to blame, what is? And what can you do?

The spread of middle age is even more…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Concerned about AI voice fraud? Don’t worry, I have a guaranteed solution- Zoe Williams

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a A friend of mine was recently fooled by a fraudulent email purporting to be from her middle school daughter and transferred £100 into her account to cover a mysterious situation, which she described as a very time-sensitive and inconvenient event. That’s it.

You can imagine how the scammers managed to pull it off. Remember the everyday low-level anxiety of parents expecting bad news when their children are further away than the kitchen table? What’s more, the bad news story, which begins with a 19-year-old’s email saying, “I broke my phone,” is completely believable. All the scammer has to do is lean back.

Still, the story isn’t complete, as it neglects to ask basic questions like, “But if your phone is broken, why transfer money to someone else’s bank account?” , and for years afterward we called him a fool. He didn’t even call her number to see if he could talk to her. A 100-pound lighter was probably the best place to land. If someone tries to release his life savings, he will concentrate.

But what happens when you hear your child begging for money just like you? Who has strong enough defenses to withstand voice cloning? Members of Stop Scams UK tried to explain this to me last year. Scammers can extract the child’s voice from her TikTok account. Then all they have to do is find the parent’s phone number. I thought I had gotten the wrong end of the stick and had to piece together the message from recorded words available on social media. Good luck getting some soccer tips and some believable havoc from K-Pop, I thought. When it comes to AI, he didn’t think for 10 seconds about whether it could infer speech patterns from samples. In fact, it’s possible.

I think it’s still pretty easy to get around. Kid Machine is seeking urgent assistance. You say, “Precious and perfect being, I love you with all my heart.” Kid Machine will surely reply, “I love you too.” Why can’t we do that? A real child would claim to have been sick in the mouth. You can’t build an algorithm for this.

Zoe Williams is a columnist for the Guardian



Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? Click here if you would like to email your answer of up to 300 words to be considered for publication in our email section.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is aerosol injection a solution to saving ice?

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A recent study from Indiana University’s Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences suggests that utilizing stratospheric aerosol injection to scatter sunlight-reflecting particles in the atmosphere could help slow the rapid melting of West Antarctica. This strategy aims to reduce the risk of catastrophic sea level rise due to climate change. The study shows that even with efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, significant sea level rise is still expected.

The study is one of the first to explore the effects of climate engineering on Antarctica, particularly focusing on the accelerating ice loss in West Antarctica. Researchers used high-performance computers and global climate models to simulate various stratospheric aerosol injection scenarios. The data analysis for the study was conducted on Carbonate, a large-memory computer cluster at IU University Information Technology Services.

The results of the study indicate that releasing stratospheric aerosols at multiple latitudes in the tropics and subtropics, with a larger proportion in the Southern Hemisphere, could be the best strategy for preserving Antarctic land ice. The researchers also emphasize the need for further research to quantify changes in melt rates and stress the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with stratospheric aerosol injection. These risks include changes in regional precipitation patterns and the potential for global temperatures to rapidly return to pre-injection levels if treatment is interrupted.

The study expands knowledge about the potential benefits and drawbacks of intentionally cooling the Earth and contributes to a growing conversation about geoengineering in response to the effects of climate change. While more research is needed, the findings highlight the importance of understanding how stratospheric aerosol injection affects the Antarctic region.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Ancient Mayan water systems: A solution to today’s water crisis

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Water lily symbol Mayan vessel

Mayan ships in Guatemala (c. 700-800 AD). It depicts a king wearing a water lily headdress sitting on a throne. Water lilies (Nymphaea ampla) on the surface of the reservoir indicated clean water and symbolized classical Mayan kingship (ca. 250-900 CE).Credit: Provided by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Ancient Mayan reservoirs, which used aquatic plants to filter and purify water, “serve as prototypes for natural, sustainable water systems to address future water demands,” according to a new paper. There is a possibility.”

Lisa Lucero, an anthropology professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, writes from one perspective that the Maya built and maintained reservoirs that they used for more than 1,000 years. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. These reservoirs provided drinking water for thousands to tens of thousands of people in the city during the five-month dry season and prolonged drought each year.

“Many of the major cities in the southern Maya lowlands arose in areas that had excellent agricultural soils but no surface water,” Lucero said. “They compensated by building reservoir systems that started small and increased in size and complexity.”

Innovative water filtration technology

Over time, the Maya built canals, dams, locks, and dog runs to channel, store, and transport water. They used silica sand to filter water, sometimes importing it from far away to large cities like Tikal in what is now northern Guatemala. Sediment cores from one of Tikal’s reservoirs also revealed that zeolite sand was used in its construction. Previous studies have shown that this volcanic sand can filter impurities and disease-causing microorganisms from water. The zeolite is also believed to have been imported from some 30 kilometers away.

“Tikal’s reservoir can store more than 900,000 cubic meters of water,” Lucero wrote. Estimates suggest that up to 80,000 people lived in and around the city during the Late Classic period, approximately 600 to 800 AD. The reservoir kept people and crops hydrated during the dry season, Lucero said.

LIDAR map of Tikal highlighting several reservoirs. Credit: (Image adapted from his Tankersley et al. 2020). LiDAR-derived hillshade image created by Francisco Estrada-Belli of the PAQUNAM LiDAR Initiative. Used with permission. Graphics modified by Bryan Lin.

Mayan royalty derived much of their status from their ability to provide water to their people.

“Clean water and political power were closely linked, as shown by the fact that the largest reservoirs were built near palaces and temples,” Lucero wrote. Kings also performed rituals to gain favor with their ancestors and the rain god Chak.

Aquatic plants of Maya reservoir

A key challenge was to prevent water in reservoirs from becoming stagnant and undrinkable, and for this the Maya likely relied on aquatic plants, many of which still live in the wetlands of Central America. Lucero said. These include cattails, sedges, and reeds. Some of these plants have been identified in sediment cores from Mayan reservoirs.

These plants filtered the water, reducing turbidity and absorbing nitrogen and phosphorus, Lucero said.

“The Maya would have had to dredge every few years… (and) harvest and replenish aquatic plants,” she writes. The nutrient-rich soil and plants extracted from the reservoir could be used to fertilize urban fields and gardens.

Symbolism and practicality of water lilies

The most iconic aquatic plant associated with the ancient Maya is the water lily. water lily ampuraThey only breed in clean water, Lucero said. Its pollen has been found in sediment cores of several Mayan reservoirs. The water lily symbolized “classic Mayan kingship,” Lucero wrote.

“The kings also wore headdresses decorated with flowers, and they are depicted with water lilies in Mayan art,” Lucero said.

“Water lilies are intolerant of acidic conditions, excess calcium, such as limestone, and high concentrations of certain minerals, such as iron and manganese,” she writes.

The Maya built and maintained self-purifying wetland reservoirs that served urban populations for thousands of years. University of Illinois anthropology professor Lisa Lucero writes that the water-related crises they faced hold lessons for today.Credit: Fred Zwicky

To keep the lily pads alive, water managers would have had to line the reservoir with clay, Lucero said. Plant roots require a layer of sediment. Next, water lilies, trees, and shrubs planted near the reservoir covered the water surface, cooling the water and suppressing algae growth.

“The Maya generally did not build their homes near the edges of reservoirs, so pollution seeping through karst terrain would not have been a problem,” Lucero wrote.

Lessons from Mayan Reservoirs for the Modern Age

Lucero said evidence collected from several southern lowland cities shows that Mayan reservoirs were built as wetlands to provide drinking water to people for more than 1,000 years, and that the region was built between 800 and 900 AD. He said the results showed that it only stopped working during the most severe droughts. She points out that current climate trends will require many of the same approaches taken by the Maya, such as the use of aquatic plants to naturally improve and maintain water quality.

“Constructed wetlands have many advantages over traditional wastewater treatment systems,” she writes. “We offer processing techniques that are economical, low technology, low cost and highly energy efficient.”

Constructed wetlands not only provide clean water, but can also be a source of nutrients to feed aquatic animals and replenish agricultural soils, she wrote. “The next step moving forward is to combine our respective expertise and put into practice the lessons embodied in ancient Mayan reservoirs, combined with what is now known about constructed wetlands.” she wrote.

References: “Ancient Maya Reservoirs, Constructed Wetlands, and Future Water Needs” by Lisa J. Lucero, October 9, 2023. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2306870120

Source: scitechdaily.com