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Psychedelics Create Brain States Comparable to Meditation in Spiritual Lamas

Posted on February 5, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Meditation and Low Doses of 5-MeO-DMT: Comparable Effects on Spiritual Experiences

Janique Bros/Getty Images

A highly skilled meditator dedicated 15 years to mastering ego quieting techniques. Recent brain scans reveal that he may have achieved a similar state using low doses of psychedelic substances.

According to Christopher Timmerman from University College London, “At low doses, there appears to be significant alignment in brain activity between this psychedelic state and non-dual meditation practices,” a meditative form that transcends the self-world distinction.

The field of psychedelic research is rapidly evolving, as scientists seek to explore how substances like 5-MeO-DMT can enhance consciousness and mental well-being. Notably derived from North American toads, 5-MeO-DMT is under scrutiny due to its unique effects: Rapid disruption of mental processing without vivid hallucinations.

Timmerman and his team undertook a study comparing the psychedelic state induced by 5-MeO-DMT with advanced meditative practices. Collaborating with lamas from the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, they recorded over 54,000 hours of meditation.

In a controlled setting, the lamas practiced meditation for 30 to 60 minutes, followed by either a placebo or low/high doses of 5-MeO-DMT. Brain activity was measured throughout these conditions, and post-session reflections on thoughts and self-perception were recorded.

They discovered that low doses (5 milligrams) of 5-MeO-DMT produced notable parallels in brain activity to meditative states. Scans indicated increased alpha activity, associated with a relaxed state of wakefulness, and reduced gamma activity linked to cognitive engagement, compared to both placebo and baseline conditions.

Timmerman pointed out that while both scenarios offer a calming effect where the lama’s thoughts “came and then vanished,” meditation provided a deeper sense of interconnectedness and mental clarity.

Higher doses (12 milligrams) of 5-MeO-DMT, however, boosted gamma activity. The lama described feelings of complete detachment from his surroundings, overwhelmed by intense white light. “I’m not thinking about anything,” he recounted, experiencing full disconnection from his body and environment.

This elevated dose also correlated with increased neuronal firing and entropy, indicating more unpredictable firing patterns compared to both placebo and baseline sessions, thus overwhelming his sensory perceptions. Conversely, lower doses resulted in decreased neuronal firing and entropy.

Lama Recording Brain Activity During Meditation

Christopher Timmerman

The research findings suggest a connection between different neural pathways, relating to the “collapse of the ego” and the sensation of “contentless consciousness.” However, changes in the lama’s brain activity do not necessarily account for his subjective experiences, as noted by Matthew Sachet from Harvard Medical School.

It’s essential to note that this study involved only one highly skilled meditator, potentially limiting the broader applicability of results, particularly as brain activity assessments can offer varying reliability. Additionally, blinding participants in psychedelic studies presents challenges due to the typical side effects of these substances, which can alert participants to their experience. Fortunately, no such effects were reported by the lamas.

Nonetheless, Timmerman emphasizes that if further research confirms the safe usage of 5-MeO-DMT can deliver comparable advantages to advanced meditation, the implications could benefit a wider audience. He is currently investigating whether this substance can expedite the learning curve for novice meditators, cautioning against unsupervised use, especially since 5-MeO-DMT remains illegal in several regions.

Meanwhile, Sachet posits that for individuals seeking mental health benefits from 5-MeO-DMT, meditation might provide “a viable path to a state that overlaps, at least partially, with some psychedelic effects,” sans the associated risks of toxicity or addiction.

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Over 20 States Take Legal Action Against EPA for Solar Subsidy Revocation

Posted on October 17, 2025 by

Over 20 states have filed a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), contesting the agency’s decision to terminate a $7 billion initiative designed to enhance access to solar power for low-income households.

The initiative, known as “Solar For All,” was launched in 2022 as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, which allocated subsidies for building rooftop and community solar projects. This action was part of the Biden administration’s commitment to decreasing carbon emissions and aimed to make solar energy available to around 1 million additional American households.

However, in August, the EPA announced the program’s cancellation, with states withdrawing approximately 90% of the grant funds from the awarded accounts, according to the legal complaint.

The EPA has been working to reinstate clean energy funding sanctioned by the Biden administration. This new lawsuit will assess whether the agency overstepped its bounds in this instance. The states involved in the legal challenge had expected the funding to boost solar power availability, lower greenhouse gas emissions from energy production, and decrease energy costs.

“Congress established a solar energy program to make electricity more affordable, but the administration is ignoring the law, focusing instead on conspiracy theories about climate change,” Washington Attorney General Nick Brown stated in a news release. The EPA’s action “places about $156 million in jeopardy” for Washington state, as mentioned in the release.

Earlier this month, a coalition of nonprofit organizations and solar installers lodged a complaint, which resembles a similar lawsuit against the program’s cancellation.

When asked about the recent lawsuit, the White House referred NBC News to the EPA, which typically remains silent on ongoing litigation.

The states involved in the lawsuits are all governed by Democratic officials. Notably, Washington, Arizona, and Minnesota are leading this legal action, which was filed in the Western District of Washington.

The lawsuit contends that the EPA “illegally and unilaterally terminated” the program, breaching the Administrative Procedure Act that regulates federal agencies’ operations. It also claims that the EPA overstepped its “constitutional authority” by attempting to revoke programs and funds approved by Congress.

This latest suit is part of a dual strategy employed by states to counteract the Trump administration’s cuts to clean energy initiatives established under President Joe Biden.

On Wednesday, another group, including states and state energy agencies, filed a separate complaint in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims regarding the cancellation of individual subsidy agreements.

The lawsuit argues that the EPA’s retraction of funds violated distinct subsidy contracts with states and state energy authorities.

It further claims the EPA relied on a “false and malicious interpretation” of the One Big Beautiful Bill, which was enacted during the Trump administration, to support its actions.

While acknowledging that the law granted the administration certain powers to retract Inflation Control Act funds, the complaint asserts that this authority only extended to funds not yet distributed to grant recipients.

A third lawsuit was filed this month in Rhode Island District Court. Solar companies, homeowners, nonprofits, and labor unions are making similar claims. It contends that the EPA’s actions could deny nearly 1 million people access to affordable solar energy and jeopardize “hundreds of thousands of good-paying, high-quality jobs.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Judge States Wikipedia Can Contest Online Safety Laws If Stricter Regulations Are Enforced

Posted on August 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Wikimedia operators have received approval from a High Court judge to contest the online safety legislation when deemed a high-risk platform, which imposes the most stringent requirements.

The Wikimedia Foundation warns that if OFCOM classifies it as a Category 1 provider later this summer, it will be compelled to limit access to the site in order to meet regulatory standards.

As a nonprofit entity, the organization stated it “faces significant challenges in addressing the substantial technical and staffing demands” required to adhere to its obligations, which include user verification, stringent user protection measures, and regular reporting responsibilities to mitigate the spread of harmful content.

The Wikimedia Foundation estimates that to avoid being categorized as a Category 1 service, the number of UK users accessing Wikipedia would need to decrease by approximately three-quarters.

Wikipedia asserts it is unlike other platforms expected to be classified as Category 1 providers, such as Facebook and Instagram, due to its charitable nature and the fact that users typically interact only with content that interests them.

Judge Johnson declined to challenge Wikipedia’s status in court for various reasons but emphasized that the site “offers tremendous value for freedom of speech and expression,” noting that the verdict would not provide Ofcom or the government a mandate to impose regulations that would severely limit Wikipedia’s operations.

He stated that the classification of Wikipedia as a Category 1 provider “must be justified as proportionate if it does not infringe upon the right to freedom of expression,” but added that it was “premature” to enforce such a classification as Ofcom had not yet determined it to be a Category 1 service.

Should Ofcom deem Wikipedia a Category 1 service, which would jeopardize its current operations, Johnson suggested that technology secretary Peter Kyle “should consider altering the regulations or exempting this category of services from the law,” highlighting that Wikipedia could confront further challenges if this were not addressed.

“We are pleased to report that we are actively engaging with the Wikimedia Foundation,” said Phil Brad Leishmieg, lead attorney for the organization. “While the ruling does not provide immediate legal protection for Wikipedia as we had sought, it accentuates the responsibilities facing Ofcom and the UK government regarding the implementation of the Online Safety Act.”

“The judge has recognized the issues caused by the misalignment of OSA classifications and obligations concerning Wikipedia’s ‘significant value, user safety, and the human rights of Wikipedia volunteer contributors.’

Government KC Cecilia Aibimee stated that the minister has taken OFCOM’s guidance into account, specifically considering whether Wikipedia should be exempt from the regulations, but ultimately decided against it. She remarked that Wikipedia was deemed “in principle an appropriate service necessitating Category 1 obligations,” and that the reasoning behind this decision was “neither unreasonable nor without justification.”

A government representative commented: “We are pleased with today’s High Court ruling. This will assist us in our ongoing efforts to implement online safety laws and foster a safer online environment for all.”

Lightning Spans 515 Miles, Crossing Three States

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“It’s a remarkably unusual phenomenon,” he remarked. “We only uncovered it a decade ago when specific technologies became capable of tracing the exact start and end points of a lightning event.”

Mega flashes are quite common, although they typically occur only in regions where particular geographical and atmospheric conditions can trigger severe thunderstorms, Cerveny explained. For instance, in the Great Plains and the Midwest, warm, humid air from the Gulf of Mexico interacts with colder northern air, resulting in significant atmospheric instability.

These conditions coalesce to produce fierce storms, which can generate a megaflash of lightning. Cerveny notes that these extraordinarily long lightning bolts have previously been recorded in Argentina and southern France, and scientists theorize they may also manifest in parts of China and Australia.

The 2017 Megaflash was generated by an immense storm that spanned large sections of the US, from Texas to Iowa and Missouri. While megaflashes can cross multiple states, they occur high in the atmosphere and seldom cause ground damage, Cerveny indicated.

“They exist in the upper and central layers of thunderstorms, towering over 10,000 to 18,000 feet,” he stated.

The composite satellite image mapping of the Record Lightning Megaflash illustrates its progression over time. Lightning bolts beneath the clouds are marked by polar-colored symbols.
Michael Peterson/GTRI

The lightning bolt measuring 515 miles in length is discussed in a study published on Thursday. American Weather Society Bulletin.

“These new discoveries underscore significant public safety issues concerning electrification clouds that can travel vast distances, have substantial effects on the aviation industry, and generate flashes capable of igniting wildfires,” stated WMO Secretary-General Celestesauro in an accompanying announcement.

The extreme conditions conducive to their formation serve as a stark reminder of the tremendous power and danger posed by thunderstorms. In the US, lightning claims about 20 lives annually and injures hundreds more. According to weather services.

As per the WMO, Thursday’s classification indicates that the 2017 Lightning Flash exceeds the previous world record set five years ago by roughly 38 miles. The earlier lightning bolt, recorded on April 29, 2020, spanned 477.2 miles across parts of the Southern United States.

The 2017 MegaFlash was recognized after scientists revisited archival measurements used when the storm originally formed.

“When the initial research was conducted, we didn’t possess the technology available today,” Cerveny noted. “Now, we can employ satellite instruments to detect lightning bolts with high precision and pinpoint exactly where, how long, and for what duration the lightning event occurred.”

Experts predict that even longer megaflashes may emerge in the coming years, particularly as satellite technology enhances its detection capabilities.

“As time progresses and our data records expand, we can observe the rarest types of extreme lightning on Earth and study its widespread effects on society,” remarked Michael Peterson, an atmospheric scientist at Georgia’s Center for Intense Storm Research.

The WMO committee on Climate and Climate Extremes maintains official records of global, hemispheric, and regional extremes, including those for temperature, rainfall, wind, hail, lightning, tornadoes, and tropical cyclones.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Wimbledon Officials Stand by AI Usage as Jack Draper States It’s Not “100% Accurate”

Posted on July 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Wimbledon organizer defended the implementation of AI line judges after Jack Draper claimed the technology wasn’t “100% precise.”

The UK’s first-line judge was deemed “embarrassing” and removed after colliding with 36-year-old former finalist Marin Cilic in the second round.

The 23-year-old Draper expressed his frustration with the AI-enhanced Hawk-Eye system during Thursday’s match, especially after a contested serve from his opponent went unchallenged over four sets.

“Honestly, I don’t think it’s 100% precise,” he mentioned in a post-match conference. “Some of the calls today showed marks on the court. There’s no way chalk would indicate that. I don’t believe it’s 100% precise—it’s in millimeters.”

He acknowledged that it was unfortunate the judge was removed but conceded he might have been wrong regarding a specific call.

Tournament Director Jamie Baker stood by the system’s accuracy and refrained from commenting on whether he missed the human line judge, who had been part of Wimbledon’s tradition for 147 years.

Baker stated: “The concept of live line calling is standard across the tour. It’s essential for the entire ATP tour. Two of the other Grand Slams have utilized it for four or five years.”

“What that means is the level of refinement and authentication around the system becomes increasingly specialized and robust over time.”

“The overall accuracy, reliability, and robustness of the system are on par with tennis from a moderation standpoint.”

Baker refuted claims that the electronic system influenced Ben Shelton’s decision to halt his second match, which occurred while the 22-year-old American was serving.

Shelton, ranked No. 10 in the world, was outraged at the judge’s ruling, which came at 9:31 PM due to diminishing sunlight. Baker asserted that the decision was not related to technology and that the match could continue later.

Baker remarked: “It won’t be effective if no one is able to call the lines, but we haven’t hit that threshold yet, although we are getting closer.

“It’s not just about how technology has evolved, but also about the number of cameras on each court, allowing for longer playtime with the challenge system.”

Baker noted that players were previously able to continue playing as daylight faded, but they have since struggled to manage this.

“Sometimes players liked it, sometimes they didn’t,” he said. “In reality, we have more time now that we can extend matches. But last night, we were approaching the limit, and hadn’t quite reached it yet.”

“This sport requires high-level performance at a fast pace, and when darkness falls, it becomes a challenge even for seasoned officials.”

Evolution of Vaccine Recommendations in the United States

Posted on July 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Nurse administering a flu shot

Tess Crowley/Chicago Tribune/Getty Images

On June 26, the Advisory Committee on U.S. Vaccination Practices (ACIP) announced new recommendations regarding flu vaccinations that utilize controversial preservatives often misattributed to autism. While this change is unlikely to restrict access to vaccines, it reflects a broader U.S. governmental effort to uphold the integrity of the vaccination recommendation process.

What Changes Have Occurred with ACIP?

ACIP is an advisory body that provides expert recommendations to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on vaccinations. Established in 1964, its members are appointed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, currently Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Kennedy recently dismissed all 17 members of ACIP, claiming it was necessary to eliminate conflicts of interest. “A complete overhaul is essential to restore public trust in vaccine science,” Kennedy stated in a press release.

This action faced pushback from many public health experts. “Prior to Kennedy’s actions, I had confidence in ACIP. Now, I have none,” remarked Amesh Adalja from Johns Hopkins University. “It’s reckless and dangerous to unilaterally dismantle an entire panel of experts,” added Tinatan, president of the American Infectious Diseases Association, in a statement.

Kennedy appointed eight new members, though one resigned before the inaugural meeting. Several of the new members have raised concerns regarding various vaccines. For instance, Robert Malone, a pioneer in mRNA vaccine technology, discussed on Joe Rogan’s Experience podcast in 2021 the potential links between Covid-19 vaccines and heart-related issues. A 2024 study found that while there was a lower heart attack and stroke rate post-vaccination among approximately 46 million adults, there was an increase in rare side effects such as myocarditis and pericarditis.

A CDC spokesperson stated, “Dr. Malone is a seasoned physician who advocates for rigorous, evidence-based evaluations rather than uncritical acceptance. He does not oppose vaccines based on flawed data or policies—noting the necessity for better information.”

Adalja expressed concerns that some new members lack significant expertise in vaccines, infectious diseases, and epidemiology, suggesting that trust in ACIP under Kennedy’s leadership is dwindling. “In reality, he effectively made ACIP an independent entity,” he stated.

What Changes Have Been Made to Vaccine Recommendations?

In May, Kennedy stated in a video on social media platform X that the CDC would halt Covid-19 vaccine recommendations for most children and pregnant individuals. This decision was taken without ACIP’s input, breaking longstanding precedent.

Subsequently, the CDC revised its Vaccination Guidelines for Children and Adolescents, indicating that decisions regarding Covid-19 vaccinations will be made in consultation with healthcare providers, based on personal preferences.

The new ACIP also voted to discontinue recommendations for flu vaccines containing Thimerosal, a preservative used in several vaccines, during its first meeting. Additionally, the panel advocated for seasonal flu vaccinations for all individuals older than six months.

What is Thimerosal? Is it Safe?

Thimerosal is a preservative used in various vaccines to prevent bacterial contamination and contains trace amounts of mercury, which the body metabolizes into a byproduct known as ethyl mercury.

Ethyl mercury is distinct from the more harmful methylmercury found in certain environmental sources, such as fish. Methylmercury is highly toxic and can accumulate in the body, while numerous studies have shown that low doses of ethyl mercury are safe. Additionally, it is typically cleared from the bloodstream within 30 days, even in infants.

Despite claims from anti-vaccine proponents, no studies have substantiated a link between thimerosal and autism. A 2014 survey of nearly 1.3 million children found no association between vaccines, including thimerosal-containing vaccines, and the development of autism.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted a thorough review of thimerosal use in pediatric vaccines in 1999, identifying no side effects aside from minor allergic reactions at the injection site.

Which Vaccines Contain Thimerosal?

The utilization of thimerosal in vaccines has decreased as formulations have evolved, with a shift toward single-dose vials minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination.

Thimerosal is not included in routine childhood vaccinations except for certain flu shots, which are used infrequently. For instance, only 3% of children over the age of 65 and about 2% of adults received the flu vaccine containing thimerosal during the 2024-2025 influenza season.

How Will New U.S. Vaccine Policies Compare to Other Countries?

Other nations have continued to recommend thimerosal-containing vaccines. For instance, the UK removed thimerosal from routine vaccinations between 2003 and 2005 to mitigate mercury exposure but later found no evidence of harm. They employed several vaccinations, including those with thimerosal, during specific flu seasons targeting H1N1.

In 1999, the European Medicines Agency endorsed the use of vaccines without thimerosal even in light of no evidence of harm. In 2004, after new data re-affirmed the safety of preservatives, the agency noted that “the benefits of vaccination significantly outweigh any exposure concerns, including thimerosal.” A further review of their guidelines in 2016 reaffirmed their relevance.

Can I Get the Vaccine for Myself or My Child?

Since most seasonal flu vaccinations do not contain thimerosal, it is unlikely that the ACIP’s recommendations will hinder vaccine access. Additionally, the CDC’s updated guidelines regarding Covid-19 vaccines for children and pregnancies should not affect the availability of vaccines.

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A Massive Untapped Energy Resource Lies Beneath the United States

Posted on May 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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Below the western United States lies a significant, untapped source of clean energy. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), this potential is substantial.

This research is part of a long-term initiative to chart the nation’s geothermal capabilities, particularly focusing on the expansive basin regions that encompass Nevada, Utah, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Wyoming.

USGS projects that these geologically active states hold the potential to generate reliable and consistent geothermal energy of up to 135 gigawatts, provided new technologies can harness this underground resource. To put this in perspective, the typical U.S. household consumes about 1 kilowatt of electricity continuously, meaning that 135 gigawatts can fulfill the stable energy demands of nearly 135 million homes.

“The evaluation of USGS energy resources is geared towards the future,” stated Dr. Sarah Ryker, the acting director of USGS. “We emphasize undiscovered resources that have yet to be fully explored and developed, starting our work in the Great Basin due to its geothermal activity history.”

Currently, geothermal energy comprises less than 1% of the electricity in the U.S., predominantly sourced from conventional hydrothermal systems, where naturally heated water rises through permeable rocks.

Nonetheless, USGS findings suggest a much richer energy reservoir exists. This indicates that heat is trapped in dense, impermeable rock formations buried deep underground.

Geothermal systems generate electricity by circulating and heating liquids – USGS

To access these “enhanced geothermal systems” (EGS), engineers must drill deeper, sometimes reaching depths over 6 km (3.7 miles), fracturing the rock to allow water to circulate and capture heat.

This heated water can then be raised back to the surface to produce electricity, offering a constant, weather-independent energy source.

To estimate the potential energy available, USGS researchers have combined underground temperature maps, heat flow data, and sophisticated techniques for measuring extraction efficiency and energy conversion. They collaborated with the US Department of Energy (DOE), state geological surveys, and academic institutions nationwide.

Dr. Ryker stressed that this research offers a multitude of benefits beyond just energy generation. “Natural resources play a vital role in sustaining the national economy, and historically, we have advanced the technology for mapping and characterizing these resources.”

The large basins of Nevada and surrounding states showcase potential geothermal energy, indicated by colors ranging from green to red – USGS

However, advancing EGS technology presents substantial challenges. Although pilot projects have shown promise within the Great Basin, commercial-scale fortified geothermal plants are not yet operational in the U.S.

One of the primary hurdles is cost, which the U.S. Department of Energy aims to address through the Enhanced Geothermal Shot™, a program targeting a 90% reduction in technological costs by 2035.

The USGS’s efforts are not limited to the Great Basin. The agency plans to shift its focus to the Williston Basin in North Dakota, another region that may hold geothermal potential.

Should these efforts succeed, geothermal energy could emerge as a crucial component of America’s low-carbon future.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

18 States Seek to Block Trump’s Wind Power Initiative

Posted on May 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump’s nominee states at Senate hearing that nuclear tests are not recommended.

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Brandon Williams, who was chosen by President Trump to oversee the country’s nuclear weapons, stated on Tuesday that he does not recommend resuming explosive testing of deadly weapons.

This statement was made during his Confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, taking many by surprise. While other advisers suggested that the president resume test explosions for national security reasons, the last test in the U.S. occurred in 1992.

Appointed by Trump in January, Williams, a former naval officer from upstate New York, is set to oversee the National Nuclear Security Agency, a semi-autonomous agency within the energy sector responsible for managing the nation’s nuclear weapons complex.

Despite calls from Trump’s allies for a return to testing, one notable figure, former national security advisor Robert C. O’Brien, urged in a magazine article last summer that a new term for Trump would see the resumption of testing to maintain the U.S.’ advantages over China and Russia in nuclear capabilities.

At his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Williams faced opposition against the resumption of explosive testing, particularly from Senator Jackie Rosen, a Democrat from Nevada, who highlighted the state’s history of nuclear tests during the Cold War.

Describing Nevada as “ground zero” for such testing, Rosen emphasized the harmful impact on the population and environment and vehemently opposed a return to these practices.

Williams responded to questions about advising Trump on explosive nuclear tests, stating his reliance on scientific information and expertise from the NNSA lab’s data and modeling rather than testing.

Concerns about the potential environmental and health impacts of testing in Nevada were also raised, to which Williams acknowledged the importance of considering such factors in decision-making.

With a background in naval service, Williams has been nominated to head the National Nuclear Security Agency and represents New York’s 22nd Congressional District.

In a letter to Williams, Senator Elizabeth Warren expressed concerns about his qualifications in the nuclear field and lack of relevant experience.

During the hearing, Williams stressed the importance of retaining skilled labor at the NNSA, following previous administration changes and workforce challenges.

Praising the agency’s staff, Williams assured senators that he speaks on their behalf and values their expertise.

The Senate Committee is currently evaluating Williams’ nomination, with expectations for approval and confirmation by the full Senate.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Trump signs order to increase coal production in the United States.

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at bolstering the declining coal industry in the country and imposing stricter regulations on coal mining, leasing, and export. The White House stated that this move is intended to address the energy demands of artificial intelligence data centers.

This action by the Trump administration is at odds with global efforts to reduce coal-fired electricity generation and curb harmful greenhouse gas emissions associated with climate change.

During the signing of the order, Trump emphasized the importance of coal, referring to it as “beautiful, clean coal.”

Coal is widely regarded as one of the dirtiest fossil fuels and a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The burning of fossil fuels like coal releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming.

In addition to reopening certain coal plants and allowing coal leases on public land, the executive order instructs federal agencies to explore how coal-fired power plants can meet the increasing energy needs of artificial intelligence.

Workers at the John E. Amos power plant, which is a coal burning of American power fuel, in Winfield, W.Va., stand in the coal mine in 2018.Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images file

Recent government actions have rolled back environmental regulations, targeting pollution and emissions from power plants operated by oil and gas companies.

Over the past decade, the coal industry in the US has seen a decline, with coal contributing only about 16% of domestic electricity in 2023, down from 45% in 2010. The growing use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind has also played a role in reducing the country’s reliance on coal.

Efforts to revive the coal industry run counter to the preferences of most Americans, with two-thirds supporting a transition away from fossil fuels like coal by 2050, according to a recent poll by Yale University.

Burning coal for electricity generation is not only environmentally harmful but also costlier than cleaner energy sources. According to estimates, coal-generated electricity can cost Americans three to four times more than wind or solar power.

Critics of Trump’s executive order, including former EPA administrator Gina McCarthy, argue that it will worsen climate change and harm public health. They advocate for a shift towards cleaner and safer energy alternatives.

As the demand for energy from artificial intelligence increases, there is a growing need for new energy resources. However, meeting this demand is expected to strain existing energy systems, prompting calls for increased investments to stay competitive internationally.

Goldman Sachs projects a 165% rise in global electricity demand over the next five years due to the expansion of AI data centers.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Tonight, a total lunar eclipse will be visible across the United States.

Posted on March 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A total lunar eclipse will be visible across the United States on Thursday night or early Friday morning.

The lunar eclipse will begin around midnight ET – when the Earth’s shadow completely covers the moon – and will last for over an hour from 2:26 am to 3:32 am. According to Earth Sky. The complete process will continue until around 6 am ET.

The lunar eclipse will be visible in most of North and South America, as well as in Africa, Europe, eastern Australia, Russia, and half of Japan.

During a total lunar eclipse, the sun, earth, and moon align, creating shadows on the moon. As a result, the moon appears to have a reddish tint, earning it the nickname “Blood Moon.”

This reddish tint is caused by the way sunlight passes through the Earth’s atmosphere. Shorter wavelengths of blue light are easily scattered, while longer wavelengths of red light are more likely to pass through, giving the moon its distinctive color.

Unlike solar eclipses, all stages of a lunar eclipse can be safely viewed with the naked eye, although binoculars and telescopes can enhance the experience.

Unfortunately, cloudy conditions are predicted for many skywatchers tonight. Those who miss this event can look forward to the next lunar eclipse on September 7th, followed by another on March 3rd, 2026.

Overall, total lunar eclipses are less common than partial solar eclipses, which can occur up to three times a year. Neither of the two lunar eclipses in 2024 were total, with the last total lunar eclipse occurring in 2022.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Former Google CEO warns that AI can enable Rogue States to cause significant harm

Posted on February 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The former Google CEO, Eric Schmidt, warns that rogue nations like North Korea, Iran, and Russia could utilize artificial intelligence to harm innocent people. Schmidt, who served as the CEO of Google from 2001 to 2017, expressed his concerns on BBC Radio 4 about the misuse of technology and weapons by malevolent entities.

He emphasized the potential dangers posed by countries with malicious intentions, such as North Korea, Iran, and Russia, who could exploit advanced technology for harmful purposes. Schmidt highlighted the urgency of addressing this threat, citing the devastating impact it could have on innocent individuals.

In response to the export controls implemented by President Joe Biden to restrict the sale of AI-related microchips, Schmidt voiced his support for government oversight of tech companies developing AI models. However, he cautioned against excessive regulation that could stifle innovation.

While acknowledging the importance of government understanding and monitoring technological advancements, Schmidt also underscored the need for collaboration between tech leaders and policymakers to navigate ethical concerns and potential risks.

Speaking from Paris at the AI Action Summit, Schmidt highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing AI-related challenges. While some countries, like the UK and the US, did not sign a comprehensive AI agreement due to concerns about national security and regulatory impact on innovation, Schmidt stressed the need for a balanced approach to driving progress in AI.

Regarding the use of smartphones by children, Schmidt expressed concerns about their safety and advocated for measures to protect young users from online threats. He supported initiatives to regulate social media use for children and emphasized the importance of safeguarding children in the digital age.

22 states sue Trump administration for cutting funding to research projects

Posted on February 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A lawsuit was filed by 22 state attorney generals on Monday. They opposed the Trump administration’s decision to cut research funding by restricting how universities and research institutions are reimbursed for “indirect costs.”

The lawsuit names both the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Health and Human Services as Defendants, stating that the impact of the changes in indirect rates announced on Friday would be “immediate and catastrophic.”

NIH revealed on Friday that it will cap indirect funding for research projects at 15% and significantly decrease the federal government’s funding for research institutions for equipment, maintenance, utilities, support staff, and more. Previously, these rates were negotiated with the agencies. The new policy took effect on Monday for all new and existing NIH grants.

The lawsuit, filed on Monday in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts and led by the attorney generals of Illinois and Michigan, alleges that the NIH violated the Administrative Procedure Act and disregarded the will of Congress, which aimed to prevent changes in indirect cost rates since 2018.

All Democratic state Attorneys General are part of this lawsuit.

The lawsuit demands a temporary restraining order and an injunction to prevent the NIH from implementing the new rules.

Scientists have warned that reducing indirect costs will negatively impact research efforts, hinder basic science research, and potentially impede disease research and new discoveries.

In response to the proposed changes, the University of California System stated that this will significantly reduce personnel and services, affecting education, training, patient care, basic research, and clinical trials.

Supporters of the NIH policy change argue that indirect costs are currently excessive and need to be controlled.

According to a Friday post by x, Katie Miller from the newly formed Government Efficiency Bureau, or Doge, stated: “This will reduce Harvard’s exorbitant costs by $150 million annually.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

MrBeast, a popular YouTube personality, joins efforts to purchase TikTok in the United States

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

MrBeast, a famous YouTube star and the highest-paid creator on the internet, has officially joined the bid to acquire TikTok’s US operations.

Teaming up with technology entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley, the 26-year-old made an all-cash offer for the social video app’s American division. This move follows President Donald Trump’s statement that US tech billionaires Elon Musk and Larry Ellison were interested in buying TikTok.

Known as Jimmy Donaldson, MrBeast has shown interest in acquiring TikTok through various social media posts. On January 13th, he mentioned in a post, “I’ll buy TikTok to avoid getting banned.” In subsequent TikTok posts, Donaldson revealed discussions with “a bunch of billionaires” regarding the bid.

American law firm Paul Hastings announced the bid for Donaldson in a statement on Tuesday. The statement mentioned Mr. Tinsley leading an investor group consisting of “institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals,” with Mr. Donaldson being the only publicly disclosed member.

While the size of the all-cash bid was not disclosed, Trump valued it at $1 trillion. With 346 million YouTube followers, MrBeast was the world’s top internet creator in the previous year, earning $85 million according to Forbes.

Paul Hastings also noted that Brad Bondi, the lawyer leading the team advising on the bid, is the brother of President Trump’s pick for U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi.

President Trump mentioned potential agreements with Elon Musk and Larry Ellison, expressing openness to their bids to acquire TikTok. Ellison commented that it sounded like a “good deal.” Trump stated that TikTok would be allowed to operate in the US with 50% American ownership and a valuation of $1 trillion.

Despite TikTok returning online after temporary shutdown, its future in the US remains uncertain. The app faces a deadline of January 19 due to a requirement for the sale of its American division by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.

President Trump issued an executive order halting enforcement of the sale requirement, providing assurances for TikTok’s operation. Some lawmakers question the legality of suspending the law, warning of potential consequences for businesses not complying.

TikTok, Google, and Apple have been approached for comments.

Britain’s security chief warns of underestimated cyberattack threats from hostile states and gangs

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Britain is being warned by its cybersecurity chief about the seriousness of online threats from hostile states and criminal organizations. Richard Horne, director of the GCHQ National Cyber Security Center, highlighted a threefold increase in “serious” incidents due to Russia’s “aggression and recklessness” and China’s “highly sophisticated” digital operations.

In his recent speech, Mr. Horne emphasized the growing hostile activity in UK cyberspace, driven by adversaries aiming to cause disruption and destruction. He mentioned Russia’s aggressiveness and recklessness and China’s continued sophistication as cyber attackers.

Despite the increasing risks, Horne expressed concern that the severity of the threats facing the UK has been underestimated. This serves as a wake-up call for businesses and public sector organizations.

The NCSC reported a significant increase in serious cyber incidents over the past year, with 430 incidents requiring assistance compared to 371 in the previous year. Horne stressed the need to enhance protection and resilience against cyber threats across critical infrastructure, supply chains, and the economy.

The NCSC’s investigation does not differentiate between nation-state attacks and criminal incidents, but ransomware attacks remain a significant concern in the UK. Recent incidents targeting high-profile organizations like the British Library and Synnovis highlight the reliance on technology and the potential human cost of cyberattacks.

With various cyber threats emanating from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, the NCSC is urging organizations to ramp up their cybersecurity measures and stay vigilant. The warning signals the need for a collective effort to safeguard against cyber dangers.

Alan Woodward, a cybersecurity expert, reiterated the importance of staying alert to cyber threats. The government’s warning serves as a reminder for both public and private sectors to prioritize cybersecurity measures.

UK government is not planning to ban social media for under-16s at the moment, minister states

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Ministers have stated that the social media ban for under-16s is not currently being considered, despite teenagers urging a reconsideration of plans to restrict access to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat following Australia’s example.

Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science and Technology, issued a warning to social media platforms about potential fines and prison sentences for breaching online safety laws coming into effect next year. Efforts are being made to increase prevention of online harm.

During a meeting with teenagers at NSPCC headquarters, Mr. Kyle emphasized that there are no immediate plans to ban children from using smartphones, as it is not his preferred choice.

Teenagers expressed concerns about platform addiction and difficulties in seeking help for hacked accounts or offensive content, but did not call for a ban. They highlighted the importance of social connections, support, and safety.

Mr. Kyle’s initial comments about considering a ban caused worry among teenagers, but he clarified that a ban could be a possibility depending on evidence of its effectiveness, especially in light of similar legislation in Australia.

The main focus remains on preventing child fatalities linked to social media activity, with Mr. Kyle citing instances of tragic outcomes. Efforts are ongoing to enhance age verification software to protect children from inappropriate online content.

Daylight Saving Time in 2024 in the United States: Understanding the Reasons for Changing Clocks

Posted on November 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Daylight Saving Time in the United States will soon end, with clocks turning back an hour. As we bid farewell to long summer nights, we welcome cozy winter evenings and the upcoming holiday season.

When will the clocks change in November 2024?

In the United States, the time change will occur at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 3, 2024, marking the transition from daylight saving time (DST) to standard time.

Here’s how the time change will affect some major cities:

Los Angeles: Transition from Pacific Daylight Time to Pacific Standard Time. Sunrise will be delayed by an hour to 6:15 a.m. and sunset will shift to 4:57 p.m.

Chicago: Transition from Central Daylight Time to Central Standard Time. Sunset will move back to 4:41 p.m. and sunrise will be at 6:26 a.m.

New York and Washington DC: Transition from Eastern Daylight Saving Time to Eastern Standard Time. Sunrise will change to 6:29 a.m. and sunset to 4:49 p.m.

America follows six major time zones, which increase to nine when including regional variations. This is a significant improvement from the 144 local time zones that existed before time zones were consolidated in 1883.

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What is the history of daylight saving time?

The concept of daylight saving time was first proposed by New Zealand scientist George Hudson in 1895, with the aim of utilizing extra daylight for activities. The idea was later championed by British builder William Willett, who saw it as a way to maximize daylight hours. Daylight saving time was eventually adopted in various countries, including the United States during World War I.

The U.S. had a tumultuous relationship with daylight saving time, trialing and abandoning it multiple times before standardizing it in 1966.

Why do people want to abolish daylight saving time?

Critics of daylight saving time cite negative effects on health, economy, and pet behavior as reasons to abolish it. The time change can disrupt sleep patterns, decrease productivity, and confuse pets. Some states, like most of Arizona and Hawaii, have chosen not to observe daylight saving time due to various reasons.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Preparation in the United States for a possible avian influenza outbreak

Posted on April 27, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Dairy cows on a farm in the US

Shutterstock / Roman Melnyk

The avian influenza virus continues to spread among dairy cows in the United States, and the country’s health authorities are actively preparing for possible spread to humans.

“risk [of bird flu] “While the current rate remains low, we continue to be strongly prepared as new data becomes available,” Vivian Dugan of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said at a meeting of health officials on April 25. Stated.

The first priority is tracking the spread of the virus. So far, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the H5N1 avian influenza virus subtype in dairy cows. 33 farms across 8 statessix cats on farms in three of those states.

Genetic sequencing has shown that out of 260 samples taken from sick dairy cows, only one has a mutation that suggests H5N1 is adapted to infect mammals, he said. Rosemary Chiffo d At the Department of Agriculture during a meeting. However, this marker has been previously observed in other diseased mammals and did not affect the ability of the virus to transmit between mammals. Furthermore, her other 10 samples from the same herd from which this sample was collected did not have the same mutation.

“It hasn’t changed much and remains an avian virus…in other words, it hasn’t become an avian virus. [cow] It’s a virus,” Sifford said.

According to data presented at the meeting, the CDC tested 23 people who had close contact with the animals for the virus. Only one person tested positive, a dairy worker in Texas whose only symptom was bloodshot eyes. To increase testing capacity, the CDC recently increased funding to genetic sequencing centers in six states, Dugan said.

Another important measure being taken is to ensure the security of the milk supply in the United States. Milk from infected cows contains large amounts of the virus. Although milk from sick animals should not enter the milk supply, initial testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that: 1 in 5 milk samples Contains genetic signatures of avian influenza.

“Importantly, this does not mean the sample contains intact infectious virus.” donald prater At the FDA. The test method used detects any genetic material, including dead virus.

Most milk sold in the United States is pasteurized, a process that uses high heat to kill pathogens. Although no studies have evaluated the effectiveness of pasteurization against H5N1, research on similar influenza viruses suggests it may be effective, Prater said. This is why people should avoid consuming or touching raw dairy products.

Two vaccine candidates against H5N1 are also under development. Initial testing by the CDC showed both to be effective in laboratory tests on current strains of cattle, Dugan said.

As part of pre-established procedures, the US Office of Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) said it is stockpiling supplies for the avian influenza vaccine. david boucher At the ASPR conference. This involves producing a part of the vaccine called an antigen that triggers an immune response to the virus. He said ASPR and its commercial partners have already filled hundreds of thousands of bottles of H5N1 vaccine and can quickly supply it for clinical trials or emergency use if needed.

“Based on the CDC’s current situational risks, vaccination is not a necessary tool at this time. But we want to be prepared in case the situation changes,” Boucher said. Enough material is also stockpiled to produce 10 million more doses. And ASPR has contracts with vaccine manufacturers to further increase production as needed.

“If we need to pull any of these levers, we are ready to do so,” Boucher said.

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Report states Europe is experiencing the greatest rate of warming among all continents

Posted on April 23, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Europe is the continent experiencing the most rapid increase in temperature, with its temperatures rising at approximately twice the global average, as reported by two top climate watchdogs on Monday. This raises concerns about human health, glacier melting, and the impact on economic activity.

The World Meteorological Organization of the United Nations and the European Union’s climate change agency Copernicus jointly reported that the African continent has the potential to transition to renewable resources like wind, solar, and hydropower in response to the effects of climate change. There is an opportunity to develop specific strategies to accelerate action on climate change.

Last year, the European Climate Report stated that the continent generated 43% of its electricity from renewable sources, up from 36% the previous year. In Europe, more energy was produced from renewables than fossil fuels for the second consecutive year.

According to the report, the latest five-year average temperature shows Europe to be currently 2.3 degrees Celsius (4.1 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels, compared to the global temperature being 1.3 degrees Celsius warmer. This is just below the target set in the 2015 Paris climate agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Firefighters and volunteers extinguish a burning field during a forest fire in Salonida, Greece, July 17, 2023.
Nick Paleologos/Bloomberg from Getty Images File

“Europe has continued to face rising temperatures and extreme weather events this year, including heat stress from record temperatures, wildfires, heatwaves, glacier ice loss, and inadequate snowfall,” said Elisabeth Hamdoush, Deputy Division Chief of the EU Executive Director Copernicus.

This report complements the World Meteorological Organization’s flagship State of the World Climate Report, which has been published annually for 30 years and this year issued a “Red Alert” warning that the world is not taking sufficient action to combat the effects of global warming.

In March, Copernicus reported achieving a record for 10 consecutive months of record-breaking temperatures. According to a European report, the average sea surface temperature across oceans in Europe is expected to reach its highest annual level in 2023.

This year’s European report focuses on the impact of high temperatures on human health, noting a rise in heat-related deaths across the continent. Over 150 lives were directly lost due to storms, floods, and wildfires last year.

Economic losses related to weather and climate in 2023 are estimated to exceed 13.4 billion euros (around $14.3 billion).

Carlo Buontempo, Director of Copernicus, stated, “In 2023, hundreds of thousands of people will be affected by extreme weather events causing significant damage at a continental level, with an estimated cost of at least tens of billions of euros.” “It’s been done,” he said.

The report highlights that extreme weather conditions have led to heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and floods. High temperatures are causing the reduction of glaciers on continents, including the Alps, where about 10% of glaciers have been lost over the past two years. Glacier ice has been declining.

Nevertheless, the authors of the report pointed out some exceptions, such as Scandinavia and Iceland, where temperatures were below average despite above-average mercury concentrations across much of the continent.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

U.S. states and big tech companies clash over online child safety bills: Battle lines drawn

Posted on April 15, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

○On April 6, Maryland passed the first “Kids Code” bill in the US. The bill is designed to protect children from predatory data collection and harmful design features by tech companies. Vermont’s final public hearing on the Kids Code bill took place on April 11th. This bill is part of a series of proposals to address the lack of federal regulations protecting minors online, making state legislatures a battleground. Some Silicon Valley tech companies are concerned that these restrictions could impact business and free speech.

These measures, known as the Age-Appropriate Design Code or Kids Code bill, require enhanced data protection for underage online users and a complete ban on social media for certain age groups. The bill unanimously passed both the Maryland House and Senate.

Nine states, including Maryland, Vermont, Minnesota, Hawaii, Illinois, South Carolina, New Mexico, and Nevada, have introduced bills to improve online safety for children. Minnesota’s bill advanced through a House committee in February.

During public hearings, lawmakers in various states accused tech company lobbyists of deception. Maryland’s bill faced opposition from tech companies who spent $250,000 lobbying against it without success.

Carl Szabo, from the tech industry group NetChoice, testified before the Maryland state Senate as a concerned parent. Lawmakers questioned his ties to the industry during the hearing.

Tech giants have been lobbying in multiple states to pass online safety laws. In Maryland, these companies spent over $243,000 in lobbying fees in 2023. Google, Amazon, and Apple were among the top spenders according to state disclosures.

The bill mandates tech companies to implement measures safeguarding children’s online experiences and assess the privacy implications of their data practices. Companies must also provide clear privacy settings and tools to help children and parents navigate online privacy rights and concerns.

Critics are concerned that the methods used by tech companies to determine children’s ages could lead to privacy violations.

Supporters argue that social media companies should not require identification uploads from users who already have their age information. NetChoice suggests digital literacy education and safety measures as alternatives.

During a discussion on child safety legislation, a NetChoice director emphasized parental control over regulation, citing low adoption rates of parental monitoring tools on platforms like Snapchat and Discord.

NetChoice has proposed bipartisan legislation to enhance child safety online, emphasizing police resources for combating child exploitation. Critics argue that tech companies should be more proactive in ensuring child safety instead of relying solely on parents and children.

Opposition from tech companies has been significant in all state bills, with representatives accused of hiding their affiliations during public hearings on child safety legislation.

State bills are being revised based on lessons learned from California, where similar legislation faced legal challenges and opposition from companies like NetChoice. While some tech companies emphasize parental control and education, critics argue for more accountability from these companies in ensuring child safety online.

Recent scrutiny of Meta products for their negative impact on children’s well-being has raised concerns about the company’s role in online safety. Some industry experts believe that tech companies like Meta should be more transparent and proactive in protecting children online.

Research shows that the majority of Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) sightings occur in the western United States.

Posted on March 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Sightings of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), formerly known as unidentified flying objects (UFOs), have been reported throughout history. There is growing interest in understanding what these sighting reports mean, given the potential security and safety risks they pose, as well as scientific curiosity. Scientists at the University of Utah and the U.S. Department of Defense see this problem as a key question of human experience and can be examined through a geographic lens: what local factors might increase or decrease the number of reported sightings. I wondered if there was a gender. They used data from the National UFO Research Center and included a total of 98,000 sighting reports over a 20-year period from 2001 to 2020. For each county in the continental United States, they analyzed his two conditions. Light pollution, cloud cover, and canopy cover. And the possibility of an object in the sky, which means near an airport or military installation. Most of the sightings took place in the western United States due to the physical geography of the area: wide open spaces and dark skies.

UAP from declassified video taken by a US Navy aircraft. Image credit: U.S. Navy.

“The idea is that if you have a chance to see something, you're likely to see an unexplained phenomenon in the sky,” said Dr. Richard Medina, a geographer at the University of Utah.

“There's more technology in the sky than ever before, so the question is: what are people actually seeing?”

“This is a difficult question to answer, but an important one because any uncertainty could be a potential threat to national security.”

“Understanding the environmental context of these sightings will help us find explanations for their occurrence and help identify truly anomalous objects that are legitimate threats.”

Dr. Medina and his colleagues looked at the number of sightings per 10,000 people per county and identified significant clusters of low numbers (cold spots) and high numbers of reports (hot spots).

Far more sightings have been reported in the west, northeast, and some isolated areas. Cold spots were in the Central Plains and Southeast.

All results except cloud cover support the general hypothesis that people will see things if they have the chance.

“We have historical ties to the UAP in the West, with military operations at Area 51 in Nevada, Roswell in New Mexico, and here in Utah at the Skinwalker Ranch in the Uinta Basin and the U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground.” Dr. Medina said.

“Additionally, we have a strong outdoor community that recreates on public lands year-round. People get outside and look at the sky.”

NUFORC reported sightings for the spatial distribution of the continental United States from 2001 to 2020. Image courtesy of Medina other., doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-49527-x.

In July 2022, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, directed the establishment of the All Area Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) as a single authoritative UAP agency to lead and synchronize a whole-of-government approach. problem.

Previous UAP tracking efforts include the project blue booka U.S. Air Force-led project that investigated UFO sightings from 1947 to 1969.

blue bookThe most famous account is the Roswell, New Mexico incident, which claimed that a flying saucer crashed into a desert town on July 8, 1947, and the alien occupants were recovered by government agents.

Many Roswell residents witnessed this mysterious event, which may have led to a surge in flying saucer sightings that swept the United States.

Silence from government officials led to wild speculation and subsequent cover-up regarding the otherworldly visitors.

The US Air Force later revealed that the incident was caused by a secret multi-balloon project to detect Soviet nuclear tests.

Many UAP sightings have natural explanations. For example, the planet Venus is the usual culprit.

We've seen an increase in UAP reports in recent years, likely related to the rapid increase in spacecraft launches and orbiting satellites, including the Starlink satellite train and the proliferation of personal drones across the night sky. It is considered. The challenge is to parse which reports indicate the real threat.

The authors investigate whether there are temporal considerations for variation in sightings based on sociocultural factors.

For example, were there more reports after the Congressional hearings in July 2023 or after the SpaceX launch?

They are also investigating whether sociocultural factors influence UAP sightings. Whether there is a spike in reports after shows like: X files Will it become popular? Are some cultures more likely to see UAPs because of their beliefs?

“The U.S. government, military, intelligence community, and civilian agencies need to understand what is in their operational domain to ensure the safety and security of our nation and its people,” said Physicist Sean, AARO's first director.・Kirkpatrick said. University of Georgia.

“In this age of ubiquitous sensors and data availability, the unknown is unacceptable. The scientific community has a responsibility to investigate and educate.”

team's paper It was published in the magazine scientific report.

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RM Medina other. 2023. Environmental analysis of the likelihood of public UAP sightings and sky views. science officer 13, 22213; doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-49527-x

Source: www.sci.news

Elon Musk states that Neuralink implant patients can control computer mouse with their thoughts

Posted on February 20, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The first human patient implanted with Neuralink’s brain chip appears to have made a full recovery and is now able to use his thoughts to control a computer mouse, according to Neuralink founder Elon Musk, who shared the news late Monday.

“Things are going well, the patient appears to have made a full recovery, and there are no adverse effects that we are aware of. The patient can move the mouse on the screen just by thinking,” Musk said on the social media platform during the X Spaces event.

Musk said Neuralink is currently trying to get as many mouse button clicks from patients as possible. Neuralink did not immediately respond to a request for further details.

The company successfully implanted the chip in its first human patient last month after receiving approval to recruit for a clinical trial in September.

The study will use robots to surgically place brain-computer interface implants in areas of the brain that control locomotion intentions, Neuralink said, with the initial goal of helping people use their thoughts to interact with computers. He added that the idea was to be able to control the cursor and keyboard.

Musk has grand ambitions for Neuralink, saying it will facilitate rapid surgical insertion of chip devices to treat conditions such as obesity, autism, depression and schizophrenia.

Neuralink, valued at about $5 billion last year, has faced repeated calls for scrutiny over its safety protocols. The company was fined for violating U.S. Department of Transportation regulations regarding the movement of hazardous materials.

A longer version of this article was first published in German at Der Pragmaticus Verlag AG.

Confirmation of Two Newly Discovered Carboniferous Ctenacan Shark Species in the United States

Posted on February 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

An intensive search for ancient marine vertebrates in Mammoth Cave National Park's paleontological resource inventory has yielded a wealth of new fossil data. To date, paleontologists have identified marine vertebrate fossils from four major formations within the park, two of which are the first of marine vertebrate fossils to occur in those formations. It's a record. The Mammoth Cave ruins have yielded more than 70 species of ancient fish, approximately 90% of which are cartilaginous fish (sharks and related species), including two new species: I am. Troglocladodus trimbley and Grikmanius Care Forum.

Reconstruction of a new Ctenacan shark discovered in Mammoth Cave National Park and northern Alabama: Grikmanius Care Forum Two people can be seen swimming in the foreground. Troglocladodus trimbley swimming above. Image credit: Benji Paynose.

Mammoth Cave National ParkLocated in central Kentucky, it is home to the longest cave system in the world.

To date, more than 685 km (426 miles) of corridors within 214 km have been mapped.² It forms a park. In addition, within the boundaries of the park there are more than 500 small caves.

These cave passages date back 340 to 325 million years and were formed by dissolution by underground rivers, streams, and other drainage channels that cut through a series of limestones covered with durable sandstone. I did.

These passages opened up unique views of these limestones. Limestone is a time capsule containing a wealth of information about the ancient marine environment at the time of its deposition.

From these layers, invertebrate fossils such as horned corals, fan-like bryozoans, brachiopods, gastropods, shelled cephalopods, and a variety of echinoderms are found throughout the various strata that form the cave. It has been.

“Every new discovery at Mammoth Cave is made possible because of collaboration,” said Superintendent Barclay Trimble.

“Our parks team is proud to collaborate and collaborate with the National Park Service Paleontology Program and now the University of Alabama Department of Geological Sciences to make this latest announcement possible.”

Restoration of the St. Louis Shallow Marine Environment and its Fauna Genevieve Formation, Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky. Image credit: Julius Csotony.

The two new species are stenacanto shark, Troglocladodus trimbley and Grikmanius Care Forumlikely hunting in an ancient coastal habitat that covered Kentucky and Alabama more than 325 million years ago.

This region was once an ancient sea route connecting what is now eastern North America, Europe, and North Africa, but it later disappeared with the formation of the supercontinent Pangea.

Troglocladodus trimbley It was identified from adult and juvenile teeth found in St. Louis and St. Louis. Genevieve Formation and Bangor Formation of Mammoth Cave.

The ancient shark is estimated to have reached about 3 to 3.7 meters (10 to 12 feet) in length, about the same size as the oceanic white shark.

Grikmanius Care Forum It was mainly identified from teeth in St. Louis, St. Louis.Genebabe and Haney Formations in Mammoth Cave, Hartselle and Bangor Formations in Alabama, but a partial set of jaws and gills from a young specimen Grikmanius Care Forum It was also discovered in Mammoth Cave.

The body length of this species was 3-3.7 meters. The shape of its jaws suggests that it had a short head with a powerful bite to hunt small sharks, bony fish, and right-cone-shaped creatures like squid.

“This discovery pushes the origin of the Ktenacanto shark back more than 50 million years earlier than expected,” the paleontologists said.

of study It was published in the magazine park management forum.

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JM Hodnet other. 2024. Sharks in the Dark: Paleontological inventory reveals multiple contiguous populations of Mississippian cartilaginous fishes (chondrichthyes) in Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky. park management forum 40(1); doi: 10.5070/P540162921

Source: www.sci.news

Despite its wealth, why is the United States still not as healthy as it should be?

Posted on January 24, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

People wait in line to get vaccinated at a COVID-19 vaccination site in Orlando, Florida, United States.

SOPA Image/LightRocket (via Gett)

People in the United States are watching with increasing caution. aging progresses Among Washington, DC's elected leaders, the two current leading candidates for the 2024 presidential election are currently 81 and 77 years old. But the longevity of the leadership stands in sharp contrast to the reality in other parts of the country. Americans are literally dying of disease.

Ten years ago, I led a study. National Academy of Sciences (NAS) This paper is the first to document that the United States has a disadvantage in health and survival among high-income countries.our report The United States has the lowest life expectancy of any country and has been shown to have high rates of morbidity and mortality from dozens of causes. This health and survival deficit has been growing for more than 40 years, affecting men and women, young and old, rich and poor, and of all races and ethnicities.

Average life

Meanwhile, other the study This trend has been confirmed as the life and death situation worsens. Life expectancy in the U.S., after plateauing for several years, had declined for three consecutive years before the global pandemic hit. What followed was devastating. COVID-19 has killed more than 1 million people in the United States and cut life expectancy by an additional two years, twice as much for Hispanics, Blacks, and Native Americans. This was the steepest decline in life expectancy since then. Second World War and nothing comparable happened other wealthy countries.

During the pandemic, Eight Among the 10 main causes of death, the following also increased: maternal and children and youth death. Given these harsh realities, the pressing question is why are Americans so unwell?in new scientist Ten years ago, I realized the reason was simple, yet deceptively complex. That's pretty much it.

Even a casual look at life in America today reveals an incredible situation.The country is entering its third decade of national deaths. opioid epidemic – unleashed by pharmaceutical industry – 110,000 lives were claimed in 2022 alone. And along with drugs, there are also bullets. In 2020 and 2021, Guns killed more American children It is more common among people between the ages of 1 and 17 to die from any other cause.

Circumstances that cause poor health, such as high economic levels inequality and instabilityalong with limited safety net Institutions and social support systems are found in every aspect of life. children and youth In the United States. For over 10 years now, Cross-border comparison The well-being of children and adolescents in wealthy countries shows that children in the United States are worse off than other children in virtually every area measured.

Health insurance

Given the poor health status of Americans, this country needs a reliable health care system. However, the United States is well known for being one of the most complex and fragmented nations. expensive medical system world.largely 30 million the american people No health insuranceAnd for millions of others, quality, affordable, and accessible health care is simply out of reach or effectively not available.

The final feature of the U.S. situation is one of its most important factors: systemic racism and the injustices that accompany it. In 2021, Average life For Asian Americans it was 84 years, for Hispanic Americans it was 78 years, for white Americans it was 77 years, for black Americans it was 72 years, and for Native Americans it was 67 years. native community They have long experienced some of the most severe health inequalities in this country, a direct reflection of the cumulative violence, trauma, and injustice inflicted on them over generations. . It is difficult to overstate the impact of racism in the United States today.

If health is wealth, then the United States is far from being the rich and powerful country many imagine.other countries will do well too do not have They will follow the Americans down this deadly path. And the United States should consider the many ways other industrialized democracies are achieving far better and more equitable health outcomes at far lower costs.

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