Tag Archives: woman

Batman Inspires Kindness: Passengers Stand Up for Pregnant Woman on Public Transport

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Feedback is New Scientist A well-known source for the latest in science and technology news. To share feedback on items that may interest our readers, please reach out via email at feedback@newscientist.com.

Crusaders in Capes

It’s been a while since Mrs. Feedback was pregnant, yet she vividly recalls the discomfort of trying to sit on public transport with a belly the shape of a volleyball. Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that other passengers will yield their seats.

But imagine if Feedback had boarded the bus dressed as Batman? Surprisingly, this could have made a difference. Researchers led by Francesco Panini conducted an experiment and published results from a study on Milan’s subway system in npj Mental Health Research in November 2025. I tried this experiment.

A female team member, donning a prosthetic bump, boarded a train with a lifeguard. Some tests also included a third individual in a Batman costume. The costume featured a distinctive cape, logo, and pointed cowl for easy recognition, although the mask was omitted to avoid scaring passengers.

From photo reviews published in newspapers, it’s clear the costume is more charming than frightening, reminiscent of George Clooney’s outfit in Batman & Robin.

Notably, passengers relinquished their seats to “pregnant” women 67% of the time when Batman was present, compared to only 38% without him. The researchers suggest that “unexpected events may foster prosocial behavior.” Remarkably, many passengers were often unconscious of Batman’s presence; 44% who gave up their seats reported not seeing him.

Feedback posits that perhaps Batman, a lifelong champion of social justice, encourages others to reflect on fairness and decency. However, researchers caution that experiments on social priming often don’t yield consistent results, highlighting the “replication crisis” in social sciences. They emphasize the importance of Batman’s unexpectedness.

The researchers speculate that “psychologists could explore ways to weave ‘positive disruption’ into daily life,” through artistic or theatrical interventions in public spaces that temporarily break routines and foster connections. All of this suggests that impactful feedback “guides” people toward better behavior, but as with social priming, results can be unreliable. Regardless, crafting an eye-catching costume may just be key.

Interestingly, if someone dressed as Batman boarded a train, many would hardly glance twice. Perhaps the Milanese cosplay scene lacks vibrancy compared to other locales.

Please Read

In Feedback, we’ve discussed the trend of academics using pop culture references in paper titles, attempting to draw readers in. It’s a tricky balance, but when successful, it shines. Kudos to Rebecca White and Anna Remington for their 2018 study, “Object Anthropomorphism in Autism: You’ll Be Very Sad If You Don’t Read This Paper.”

This study explores how often autistic and non-autistic individuals anthropomorphize inanimate objects and its emotional consequences. Initially, the feedback made me question our household; our vacuum cleaner remains nameless. However, I recollected that we do name our cars (we sold “Carol” because it was faulty, now we drive “Kitty”).

Clearly, we aren’t alone. When a paper was shared on social media, one user remarked, “We just had a serious debate about whether the robot vacuum is a boy or a girl and what we should name it.” Feedback suggests that the ideal name might be inspired by an iconic character, like Mario’s nemesis, Goomba.

Another commenter said: “I always grab another croissant if there’s nothing left, so no one feels neglected…” Feedback operates similarly but for distinct reasons.

Reviewer 2 Strikes Again

Before academics can publish their work, they must navigate the challenging peer review process, where fellow researchers critique their submissions (often anonymously). Scholars refer to “Reviewer 2” much like ordinary folks talk about infamous figures.

Historian Andre Pagliarini took to social media to report a particularly egregious example of peer review: “First, when rejecting a paper I submitted, Reviewer 2 noted that I had no involvement with a man named Andre Pagliarini.”

As others quickly pointed out, this is a hypothetical scenario. If Pagliarini had cited more of his work, he might have faced accusations of self-promotion or had his paper rejected for lack of originality.

When we hear feedback, we often echo the lines other reviewers wrote in response. “But sir, I am Pagliarini.” If you’re unfamiliar with this joke, count yourself fortunate, as there’s no room for further explanation.

Have a story for Feedback?

You can submit your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week’s and previous Feedback editions are available on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient DNA Study Uncovers ‘Beach-Headed Woman’ from Southern England: New Insights into Early History

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The skeletal remains of the individual known as ‘Beachy Head Woman’ were rediscovered in 2012 within the collection of Eastbourne Town Hall. Since then, her story has garnered significant public interest. Radiocarbon dating reveals that she lived between 129 and 311 AD during the Roman occupation of Britain. Over the last decade, researchers have sought to uncover her geographic origins and ancestry. Initially believed to originate from sub-Saharan Africa or the Mediterranean, groundbreaking DNA research now indicates she shares strong genetic connections with the local population of Roman-occupied Britain and modern-day Britons.

A depiction of Beachy Head Woman’s face. Image credit: Face Lab, Liverpool John Moores University.

The journey of Beachy Head Woman began with her rediscovery in 2012, although uncertainty still surrounds her life. Radiocarbon dating placed her death between 129 and 311 AD, during the Roman occupation of Britain.

Analysis of her remains suggests she was aged between 18 and 25 at the time of death and stood just over 1.5 meters tall. A healed leg wound implies she endured a serious but non-fatal injury during her life.

Dietary analysis of her bones indicates a high seafood diet, revealing insights into her lifestyle.

“Using advanced DNA technology, we have made significant strides in uncovering the origins of this individual,” stated researcher Dr. William Marsh from the Natural History Museum in London.

“Our findings show that her genetic ancestry is most closely aligned with other individuals from the local population of Roman Britain,” he added.

The Beachy Head Woman’s remains were unearthed from a collection at Eastbourne Town Hall. Initial findings indicated that her skeleton was discovered at Beachy Head, a nearby geographic landmark, during the 1950s, though details of the excavation remain elusive.

Interest in Beachy Head Woman intensified when initial morphometric analyses suggested potential sub-Saharan African origins. This captivating narrative was exhibited at Eastbourne Museum, capturing widespread media attention.

In 2017, unpublished DNA findings implied a Mediterranean origin, possibly from Cyprus, rather than Africa. However, these conclusions are drawn from limited data, leaving many questions about Beachy Head Woman’s life unanswered.

“As our scientific knowledge continues to expand, it is our mission as researchers to seek further answers,” commented Dr. Selina Brace, also from the Natural History Museum in London.

“Thanks to technological advancements over the past decade since Beachy Head Woman’s reemergence, we are thrilled to share new comprehensive data and insights into her life,” she concluded.

For more details, you can refer to the team’s paper published this month in the Archaeology Journal.

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Andy Walton et al. Beachy Head Woman: Uncovering her origins using multi-proxy anthropological and biomolecular approaches. Archaeology Journal, published online on December 17, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.jas.2025.106445

Source: www.sci.news

Ancient Figurine Possibly Represents Sexual Encounter Between a Woman and a Goose

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A 12,000-year-old clay figurine and artistic restoration showcasing a woman with a goose from Nahal Ein Geb II

Laurent Davin

A diminutive 12,000-year-old clay figure featuring a goose on the back of a woman might illustrate an animistic ritual linked to mating between a gander and a human.

Measuring just 3.7 centimeters tall, this sculpture was uncovered in 2019 at the archaeological site of Nahal Ein Geb II in Israel, though its importance wasn’t fully appreciated until 2024.

The site was inhabited by the Natufians, a group of Paleolithic hunter-gatherers who established settlements in the region. Known as the direct ancestors of the Neolithic farming communities, the Natufians are credited with early agriculture throughout the Middle East.

To the casual observer, it might be challenging to discern the figure’s components; Laurent Davin, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, expressed certainty, stating it clearly depicts a goose on the woman’s back.

“Upon extracting this small clay form from its packaging, I instantly recognized a human figure with a bird resting atop,” Davin recalls. “What I held was an extraordinary artifact, 12,000 years old, notable for both its subject and craftsmanship.”

There are ancient sculptures and paintings illustrating human-animal interactions, in addition to even older hybrid sculptures dating back 40,000 years, like the “Lion Man” discovered in Germany. Davin asserts this elegant piece is “the earliest figurine representing human-animal interaction” ever found.

Geochemical analyses indicated the statuette was heated to around 400 degrees Celsius. Davin notes the artist skillfully modeled the clay, showcasing a keen awareness of anatomy and how light and shadow play into the scene.

He and his team do not propose that the figure represents a literal event, such as a female hunter with a captured goose. Instead, Davin believes the goose was artistically rendered in a mating position.

“We view this portrayal as an imaginative interaction between animal spirits and humans,” he explains. “Such themes are prevalent in animistic cultures globally, particularly reflecting erotic dreams, shamanistic visions, and mythology.”

Researchers also found fingerprints on the figurine, likely made by its creator. Due to its small dimensions, it likely belonged to a young adult or an adult female of any gender.

Paul Tacon, a professor at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, not involved in the research, presents an alternative interpretation of the statue. “Having grown up in Canada and recalling Canada geese, [it] “It reminds me of their aggressive behavior. They often charge and leap onto one’s back, pecking at the head or neck,” he observes.

“The tale of a woman being pursued by a goose could represent an altercation rather than an intimate union, though the exact significance may remain elusive.”

Ancient caves, the origins of humanity: northern Spain

Explore the world’s oldest cave paintings in this picturesque region of northern Spain. Journey back 40,000 years and learn about the lives, play, and work of our ancestors. Every cave, filled with ancient Paleolithic art and awe-inspiring geological wonders, narrates a unique and timeless tale.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Man Fined $340,000 for Creating Deepfake Porn of a Prominent Australian Woman in Landmark Case

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The individual who shared deepfake pornographic images of a well-known Australian figure has been heavily fined in the initial legal case for sending a “strong message.”

On Friday, a federal court mandated that Anthony Rotondo, also known as Antonio, pay a penalty of $343,500 along with legal costs after the online regulator, Esafiti Commissioner, filed a lawsuit against him nearly two years ago.

Rotondo was responsible for posting the images on a website named Mrdeepfakes.com.

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Regulators maintained that substantial civil penalties were essential to underscore the severity of violations against online safety laws and the harm inflicted upon women who are victims of image-based abuse.

“This action sends a strong message regarding the repercussions for individuals who engage in image-based abuse through deepfakes,” the watchdog stated late Friday.

“Esafety is profoundly concerned about the creation and distribution of non-consensual explicit deepfake images, as these can lead to significant psychological and emotional distress.”

Commissioner Julie Inman Grant filed a case against Rotondo in federal court in 2023 due to his non-compliance with a deletion notice, which was ineffective as he is not an Australian resident.

“If you believe you’re in the right, I’ll secure an arrest warrant,” he said.

Following the court’s order for Rotondo to remove the images and refrain from sharing them, he sent them via email to 50 addresses, including the Esafety Commissioner and various media outlets.

Commissioners initiated federal court proceedings shortly after police ascertained that Rotondo had traveled from the Philippines to the Gold Coast.

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He eventually acknowledged his actions as trivial.

The images were removed after Rotondo voluntarily provided passwords and necessary details to the Commissioner’s officers.




Source: www.theguardian.com

Rayner Calls Farage a “Failed Young Woman” Over Proposal to Repeal Online Safety Law

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Angela Rayner has stated that Nigel Farage has “failed a generation of young women” with his plan to abolish online safety laws, claiming it could lead to an increase in “revenge porn.”

The Deputy Prime Minister’s remarks are the latest in a series of criticisms directed at Farage by the government, as Labour launches a barrage of attack ads targeting British reform leaders, including one featuring Farage alongside influencer Andrew Tate.

During a press conference last month, reform leaders announced initiatives that encourage social media companies to restrict misleading and harmful content, vowing not to promote censorship and avoiding the portrayal of the UK as a “borderline dystopian state.”

In retaliation, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle accused Farage of siding with child abusers like Jimmy Savile, prompting a strong backlash from reform leaders.


In comments made to the Sunday Telegraph, Rayner underscored the risks associated with abolishing the act, which addresses what is officially known as intimate image abuse.

“We recognize that the abuse of intimate images is an atrocity, fostering a misogynistic culture on social media, which also spills over into real life,” Rayner articulated in the article.

“Nigel Farage poses a threat to a generation of young women with his dangerous and reckless plans to eliminate online safety laws. The absence of a viable alternative to abolish safety measures and combat the forthcoming flood of abuse reveals a severe neglect of responsibility.”

“It’s time for Farage to explain to British women and girls how he intends to ensure their safety online.”

Labour has rolled out a series of interconnected online ads targeting Farage. An ad launched on Sunday morning linked directly to Rayner’s remarks, asserting, “Nigel Farage wants to make it easier to share revenge porn online,” accompanied by a laughing image of Farage.

According to the Sunday Times, another ad draws attention to Farage’s comments regarding Tate, an influencer facing serious allegations in the UK, including rape and human trafficking, alongside his brother Tristan.

Both the American-British brothers are currently under investigation in Romania and assert their innocence against numerous allegations.

Labour’s ads depict Farage alongside Andrew Tate with the caption “Nigel Farage calls Andrew Tate an ‘important voice’ for men,” referencing remarks made during an interview on last year’s Strike IT Big podcast.

Lila Cunningham, a former magistrate involved in the reform, wrote an article for the Telegraph on Saturday, labeling the online safety law as “censorship law” and pointed out that existing laws already address “revenge porn.”

“This law serves as a guise for censorship, providing a pretext to empower unchecked regulators and to silence dissenting views,” Cunningham claimed.

Cunningham also criticized the government’s focus on accommodating asylum seekers in hotels, emphasizing that it puts women at risk and diverting attention from more pressing concerns.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Sally Review: An Inspiring Documentary on Sally Ride, the First Woman in Space

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Sally Ride during NASA’s seventh space shuttle mission, STS-7 in 1983

NASA

Sally
Christina Costantini
Disney+ (Available from June 17th)

In 1983, Sally Ride made history as the first American woman in space, becoming the third woman overall to achieve this milestone, following Valentina Tereshkova and Svetlana Savitskaya. The new documentary, Sally, directed by Cristina Costantini, delves into her remarkable journey. It captures not just the media attention but also her personal complexities, including a 27-year partnership with science writer Tam O’Shaughnessy.

The film, debuting at the Sundance Film Festival in January, commences with an extensive montage of archival footage, featuring Ride’s television appearances, which serve as an introduction to her role as a beacon of empowerment.

You can sense the determination that fueled her journey. “It’s crucial to not do anything foolish,” she reflects during a segment, encapsulating her pursuit of excellence and the weight of expectations she faced in a male-dominated field.

Ride grew up in the thriving era of the US Space Program. NASA’s 1976 initiative to diversify its astronaut selection process paved the way for women and ethnic minorities. Out of 8,000 applicants for astronaut training, 1,500 were women, leading NASA to employ 40 aspiring astronauts.

The documentary employs a clever blend of interviews and meticulously crafted sequences that smoothly integrate with the archival material. Fellow astronauts like Kathy Sullivan, Judith Lesnick, and Anna Fisher, along with journalist Lynn Sherr and Ride’s ex-husband Steve Hawley, provide valuable insights into her character, enhanced by some archival bits.

For example, Fisher reflects on the pressures faced by female astronauts to downplay their femininity, particularly regarding attire and makeup. The film also portrays Mike Mullane, who initially appeared as a staunch sexist but later acknowledges his past mistakes in a heartfelt letter to Ride—highlighting the professional hurdles she navigated throughout her career.

In 1976, NASA’s decision to diversify its class opened the door for women and ethnic minority groups.

Costantini also tenderly explores Ride’s lifelong bond with O’Shaughnessy, who met Ride on a sunlit tennis court during their teenage years. Their private relationship, upheld for decades, reflects Ride’s reserved nature and the societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community at that time.

The soundtrack features notable tracks such as Lazy Calm by Cocteau Twins, Mr. Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, and Neil Young’s Harvest Moon, adding emotional resonance to Ride and O’Shaughnessy’s narrative.

The narrative takes a poignant turn with Ride’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis in 2011, recounting her personal battle. After giving a speech at a conference in California, she felt a sense of unease, prompting her to seek medical advice the following day. An ultrasound revealed a tumor of golf ball size in her abdomen.

O’Shaughnessy’s testimony vividly illustrates how quickly their lives transformed. Nonetheless, they cherished their time together until Ride’s last moments. Her legacy extends beyond scientific achievements, encompassing the impact of Sally Ride Science’s nonprofit organization.

In summary, Sally presents a heartwarming and insightful tribute to a woman who defied conventions in both her career and personal life. Costantini captures not just Ride’s triumphs but also the sacrifices intrinsic to her groundbreaking journey, ensuring her story resonates with future generations.

Davide Abbatescianni is a Rome-based film critic

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Texas Woman Dies from Brain-Eating Amoeba After Using Tap Water for Sinus Rinse

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that a Texas woman died from an infection linked to an amoeba after using tap water for sinus irrigation, which ultimately led to brain damage Case report.

The 71-year-old woman, who was otherwise healthy, experienced severe neurological symptoms, including fever, headache, and altered mental status, four days after using tap water from the RV’s water system to fill her nasal irrigation device at a Texas campground.

She received treatment for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, an infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, often referred to as the “brain-eating amoeba.” Despite medical intervention, she suffered a seizure and succumbed to the infection eight days post-symptom onset, according to the CDC.

Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the amoeba in the woman’s cerebrospinal fluid.

The CDC noted that while infections commonly occur after recreational water use, using undistilled water for sinus irrigation is also a significant risk factor for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis.

A survey conducted by the agency revealed that although the woman had not been recently exposed to freshwater, she had used non-boiled water from the RV’s drinking water tap for nasal irrigation multiple times prior to her illness.

According to the survey findings, the RV’s drinking water tanks were filled and potentially contained contaminated water before the RV was purchased three months earlier. The investigation concluded that contamination could have originated from local government water systems linked to the drinking water systems and bypassing the tanks.

The agency underscores the importance of using distilled, sterilized, or previously boiled and cooled tap water for nasal irrigation to lower the risk of infection or illness.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

After a record-breaking 130 days, doctor successfully removes pig kidneys from Alabama woman

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An Alabama woman lived with pig kidneys for a record-breaking 130 days before her body began rejecting them, leading to their removal and a return to dialysis, doctors announced Friday.

Following her removal surgery on April 4 at Nyu Langone Health, Towana Rooney steadily recovered and went back to her home in Gadsden, Alabama. Rooney expressed gratitude to the doctors for allowing her to take part in the study.

Rooney stated, “While the outcome was not what anyone would have hoped for, I have learned a great deal from having pig kidneys for 130 days. I believe this experience can benefit and inspire many others on their journey to overcome kidney disease.”

Scientists are working on genetically modifying pigs so that their organs are more similar to human organs, addressing the significant shortage of transplantable human organs. With over 100,000 people on the US transplant list, most in need of kidneys, and thousands waiting and dying, this advancement is crucial.

Prior to Rooney’s transplant, only four other Americans had received experimental xenotransplants using gene-edited pig organs – two hearts and two kidneys – all of which failed within two months. The recipients, who were severely ill before the surgery, did not survive.

Currently, researchers are attempting to transplant these pig organs into patients with less severe illnesses, like Rooney. A man from New Hampshire who received pig kidneys in January is doing well, and a comprehensive study of pig kidney transplants is scheduled for this summer. A Chinese researcher also reported successful renal xenotransplants recently.

Since 2016, Rooney has been on dialysis and was ineligible for conventional transplants due to her body’s predisposition to reject human kidneys. Turning to pig kidneys proved successful for her, allowing her to extend her life significantly. She referred to herself as a “superwoman” and lived longer than anyone with gene-edited pig organs before her body began rejecting them in early April.

Dr. Robert Montgomery, a pioneer of Nyu XenoTransplant and Rooney’s surgeon, stated that the rejection is being investigated. He emphasized that removing the pig kidneys was a safer option than continuing with high-risk rejection drugs.

Montgomery explained, “We took a safe approach. Rooney is not worse off post-XenoTransplant. In fact, she feels better as she had a four-month break from dialysis.”

Prior to the rejection, Rooney experienced infections associated with dialysis, while her immunosuppressive anti-rejection drugs were slightly reduced, allowing her immune system to revitalize after the transplant. These factors likely contributed to the rejection of the new kidneys.

Rejection is a common concern following organ transplants, which can result in the loss of new organs. Doctors must strike a delicate balance between suppressing the patient’s immune system, fighting infections, and maintaining the new organs.

This challenge is even greater with xenotransplants, where patients still require immunosuppressive medications despite modifications made to pig organs to prevent immediate rejection. Researchers are exploring different combinations of medications to find the most effective approach.

Montgomery believes Rooney’s experience will yield valuable insights for future clinical trials. Achieving successful xenotransplants would be a significant achievement with benefits for patients in need of organ transplants.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Alabama woman undergoes surgery to remove rejected porcine kidney

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Health officials at Nyu Langone said on Friday that the surgeon had removed genetically modified pig kidneys from an Alabama woman after experiencing acute organ rejection.

Towana Rooney, 53, lived with her kidneys for 130 days. This tolerate organs from genetically modified animals for longer than anyone else. She has resumed dialysis, hospital officials said.

Rooney’s surgeon and director of the NYU Langon Transplantation Institute, Dr. Robert Montgomery, said so-called explantation is not a setback in the field of xenografting.

“This was the longest of these organs,” he said in an interview, adding that Rooney had other medical conditions that could have complicated her prognosis.

“This all takes time,” he said. “This game is won by progressive improvements, singles and doubles rather than swinging for the fence and trying to score a home run.”

Rooney’s further treatment could have saved the organ, but she and her medical team opposed it, Dr. Montgomery said.

“No. 1 is safe. I had to be sure she was fine,” he said.

Another patient, Tim Andrews of Concord, New Hampshire, has been living with the kidneys of a genetically modified pig since January 25th, according to a doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He has been hospitalized twice for a biopsy.

Just as two patients fed genetically modified pig hearts, two other patients who received similar kidneys in recent years have died.

Rooney, who returned to her Alabama home after coming to New York for treatment, said in a statement that she was grateful for the opportunity to take part in the groundbreaking procedure.

“For the first time since 2016, I enjoyed my time with friends and family without planning dialysis treatments,” Rooney said in a statement provided by Nyu Langone.

“The outcome is not something nobody wanted, but I know I learned a lot from 130 days with pig kidneys. I know this can help and stimulate many others on my journey to overcome kidney disease,” she said.

Hospital officials said Rooney’s kidney function had decreased after experiencing organ rejection. The cause was being investigated, Dr. Montgomery said.

However, the response follows a decrease in immunosuppressive drugs that have been put into treatment of unrelated infections, he added.

The first indication of the trouble was a blood test done in Alabama, showing that Rooney had increased levels of creatinine, a waste product that is removed from the blood through her kidneys. Level elevation signal may be a problem with kidney function.

Rooney was admitted to the hospital, but when creatinine levels continued to rise, she flew to New York. There, the doctor biopsied the kidneys and found clear signs of rejection, Dr. Montgomery said.

Hospital officials said the kidneys were removed last Friday.

“The decision was made by Rooney and her doctors that the safest intervention would be to remove the kidneys and return to dialysis, rather than adding them,” Dr. Montgomery said in a statement.

United Therapeutics Corporation, a biotechnology company that produced the pigs that donated Rooney’s kidneys, thanked her for her courage and said the organs appear to work well to their rejection.

The company plans to start clinical trials for a Butakidney transplant this year, starting with six patients and eventually growing to 50 patients.

Pig organs are considered a potential solution to a lack of donated organs, particularly kidneys. Over 550,000 Americans suffer from kidney failure and need dialysis, of which around 100,000 are on the waiting list to receive their kidneys.

However, there is a sharp need for human organs, with fewer than 25,000 transplants being performed in 2023. Many patients die while waiting.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Warner Bros Cancels Wonder Woman Video Games, Shuts Down 3 Studios

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Warner Bros Discovery has decided to close three video game development studios in order to boost profitability in the gaming sector amidst a slow market recovery.

The studios being closed are Player First Game, WB Game San Diego, and Monolith Productions. Development of the Monolith Wonder Woman game will also be halted after the closure. A spokesperson stated, “Our initial goal was to provide players and fans with the best possible experience for iconic characters. Unfortunately, this is no longer feasible given our strategic priorities.”

The closure of these studios reflects the challenges faced by the video game industry, with gamers opting for established titles over new purchases due to budget constraints caused by inflation. Last month, the company announced the departure of David Haddad, former Chief of the Interactive Entertainment Unit, after 12 years.

Following suit with other industry leaders like Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony, Warner Bros. is aiming to reduce costs by closing offices.

The company will now focus on four major games in November, establishing a new development studio and investment strategy, with a focus on core franchises such as Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC, and Game of Thrones, as per David Zaslav’s comments.

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The company’s previous investment in the suicide squad: killing Justice League did not yield the expected results.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Researchers say a woman may have signed the world’s oldest runestone

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Norwegian researchers have connected the dots from 2,000 years ago, suggesting that a woman could have engraved her name on the oldest dated runestone ever discovered in Norway.

The inscription starts with the word “I” in the Lunic script, hinting that it might be the author’s name. The runestone was unearthed in the Hall cemetery, a small town in southern Norway, towards the east of the capital.

“The text essentially indicates that it is the name of the Rune attendee,” Christel Zilmer, one of the study’s co-authors, told NBC News over the phone. He shared that the script was found by a Rune attendee.

Rune stones appear to be part of the excavation.
Museum of Cultural History

Experts believe that the Germanic alphabet script drew inspiration from the Roman alphabet, with Runes serving as key components in early Scandanavian communication. This form of communication was prevalent in the region until the late Middle Ages.

Rune inscriptions have been identified on items like Danish bone knives, iron knives, and combs, estimated to be around 700 Guangxi around 150 AD, correlating with other runestones discovered by archeologists.

These inscriptions often carried messages involving spells for the deceased and enchanting words.

However, the evolution of Runes over time remains a mystery, and deciphering them without an archaeological context can pose significant challenges.

The reconstruction and accompanying illustrations reveal the rune inscription.
Christel Zilmer

Recent research indicates that the fragments uncovered in 2021 belonged to a single slab, aiding scientists in understanding language evolution and the significance of such stones.

Two years later, additional fragments were discovered, and it appears that the inscriptions span across all fragments, suggesting they are part of a single stone.

“By finding two additional pieces that fit perfectly into the existing inscription, it has almost completed the inscription,” Zilmer remarked.

Due to the stone’s deterioration and weathered state, deciphering the exact text containing the names of the attendees poses some challenges, but it is noted that the inscription ends with a “-u”, which peaked researchers’ interest.

Excavation was found at the Swingyad Site, west of Oslo, Norway.
Museum of Cultural History

If confirmed as a woman’s name in ancient runes, it could be the earliest known record of female Runes inscription.

The fragments buried alongside cremated human remains in the pit allow scientists to use radiocarbon dating, tracing the fragments back to a period between 50 BC to 275 AD, providing valuable context.

“There could be a series of interconnected events here involving different individuals. It’s possible that the stone served multiple purposes,” Zilmer commented.

While much of the research is still underway, there remains a conspicuous gap in our understanding, as Zilmer noted.

“It’s akin to a puzzle with missing pieces, but exploring how these individual fragments, some inscribed, could potentially connect is an intriguing prospect,” she added.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Oldest living recipient of pig organ transplant in Alabama is a woman

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An Alabama woman achieved a significant milestone on Saturday by becoming the longest surviving recipient of a pig organ transplant. After receiving a new kidney, she has been healthy and full of energy for 61 days.

Twana Rooney, who jokingly referred to herself as a “superwoman,” shared with The Associated Press her excitement about her recovery as she took a long walk through New York City. She expressed that the transplant has given her a fresh perspective on life.

Rooney’s remarkable progress following the transplant has provided hope in the advancement of animal-to-human organ transplants. While only four other individuals in the United States have received experimental pig organ transplants (including two hearts and two kidneys), none of them survived for over two months.

Dr. Robert Montgomery of Langone Health, who led Rooney’s transplant, expressed that her kidney function is now “absolutely normal.” The medical team is optimistic about her continued progress, enabling her to eventually return to her home in Gadsden, Alabama.

There is ongoing research involving genetically modified pigs to create more human-like organs to address the critical shortage of transplantable human organs in the US. With over 100,000 people on the US transplant waiting list, most in need of a kidney, and thousands dying while waiting, pig organ transplants have been implemented as acts of compassion.

Hospitals conducting these transplants are collaborating to share insights on the outcomes, paving the way for an upcoming formal study. United Therapeutics, the provider of Rooney’s kidney, has recently sought FDA approval to commence a trial.

Rooney’s experience of donating a kidney to her mother in 1999, subsequent pregnancy complications, and eight years on dialysis led her to explore pig organ transplants. Her journey has been closely monitored by medical professionals, demonstrating the possibility of successful long-term pig organ functionality in humans.

As an advocate and source of support for those navigating the transplant process, Rooney aims to inspire and educate others through her unique story. While the longevity of her new kidney remains uncertain, her resilience and determination offer hope for the future of organ transplantation.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

World’s First 3D Printed Trachea Successfully Implanted in Woman

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In a groundbreaking achievement in the field of medicine, a 3D printed organ has been successfully transplanted into a patient for the first time in history. A South Korean patient is currently recovering with a new trachea partially made from someone else’s stem cells.

The pioneering 3D-printed trachea transplant took place at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital in 2023, led by a team of scientists, doctors, and engineers. The recipient was a woman in her 50s who had lost part of her trachea following thyroid cancer surgery.

While 3D printed bones and food have shown some success, the transplantation of organs marks a new frontier in medical technology.

What is the 3D printed trachea made of?

The patient’s new trachea is composed of cartilage and mucosal lining, sourced from nasal stem cells and chondrocytes obtained from other patients. The bioink used also contains polycaprolactone (PCL) for structural support, different from the standard ink used in home printers.

Given its biodegradable nature, PCL has a limited lifespan of about 5 years. However, researchers hope that within this timeframe, the artificial organ will stimulate the patient’s body to regenerate its own windpipe.

According to the hospital, traditional treatments post-tracheal resection do not allow for restoration of the original organ and can be complex and risky. The introduction of 3D printed organs could transform the treatment of patients with thyroid cancer, congenital defects, and tracheal trauma.

Significantly, patients undergoing this procedure did not require immunosuppressants. At the six-month mark post-surgery, the patient’s trachea was healing well with the development of new blood vessels.

The research is currently undergoing peer review for publication in a scientific journal.

How do I 3D print a trachea?

The dimensions of the trachea must be customized for each patient based on their CT and MRI data. In this particular case, the trachea’s length needed to be under 5 cm (2 inches).

The printing process took less than two weeks, and the implantation occurred during a half-day surgery.

The successful collaboration behind this procedure involved the Catholic University of Korea, Gachon University, and T&R Biofab, the biomedical engineering company responsible for manufacturing the printer.

This achievement is the culmination of two decades of research, dating back to 2004 with preliminary laboratory studies on animals such as beagles. T&R Biofab’s specially designed printer enabled the creation of personalized, hollow, tubular organs with high precision technology.

Although the printer was tailored for Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, there is potential for future expansion beyond this specific institution.

Dr. Paulo Marinho, Head of Science Strategy at T&R Biofab, expressed optimism about the future of 3D bioprinting technology and its potential to address organ shortages for transplantation.

About our experts

Dr. Paulo Marinho, with a background in chemical engineering and postdoctoral experience in regenerative medicine, plays a crucial role at T&R Biofab in advancing the frontiers of 3D bioprinting.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Woman sues over allegations that robotic device caused burns to her small intestine during surgery

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A woman who was undergoing surgery for colon cancer has been the victim of a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida this week. The lawsuit alleges that a robotic device caused damage to Sandra Sulzer’s small intestine, which led to her death. This happened after she experienced abdominal pain and fever following the surgery in September 2021. The extra procedures to close her lacerations were not enough to save her life, as she died in February 2022 due to small bowel injuries.

Sandra’s husband, Harvey Salzer, is seeking damages from Intuitive Surgical, the manufacturer of the device. The lawsuit claims that the company knew about the insulation problems in the robot that could cause internal organ burns, and yet failed to inform the users about the risk nor to disclose it to the public. It also asserts that Intuitive Surgical doesn’t properly train surgeons who use the device, the da Vinci, and that hospitals lack experience with robotic surgery.

According to the complaint, Intuitive has received thousands of reports of da Vinci-related injuries and defects, but “systematically underreports” injuries to the Food and Drug Administration. The company also stated in a 2014 Financial Report that it was a defendant in approximately 93 lawsuits at the time.

Many doctors support robotic surgery as a safe method, but there are discussions about whether it is more effective than traditional surgery. The technology aims to make procedures precise and less invasive, potentially leading to faster, less painful recovery.

Da Vinci Xi Surgical System.Provided by: Intuitive

A 2018 NBC News analysis revealed over 20,000 da Vinci-related adverse events over the past 10 years, as per reports from the FDA’s MAUDE database. More than a dozen patients spoke to NBC News about burns or injuries during procedures using da Vinci.

Intuitive defended the device’s safety, referring to scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in over 15,000 studies.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Sheryl Sandberg: From Tech Executive to 2 Billion Dollar Woman

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MArc Zuckerberg hired Sheryl Sandberg as Facebook’s chief operating officer in 2008 as the social network grew rapidly and sought to attract investment. Zuckerberg was just 23 when he founded Facebook in his Harvard dorm room, but Sandberg, 38, was considered the “adult in the room.”

The former head of sales at Google and chief of staff at the U.S. Treasury has become one of the most influential people in global technology and one of the few women at the top of the industry. She also made a lot of money – which she is now worth after selling most of her stake in Meta, her Facebook parent company that also owns Instagram and her WhatsApp.
Nearly $2bn (£1.6bn).

Mr. Sandberg, now 54, stepped down from his role a year and a half ago, and announced Wednesday night that he would also step away from Meta’s board. “We feel now is the right time to exit,” she wrote in a Facebook post, noting that Mehta is “well positioned for the future.”

“Sheryl, thank you for your extraordinary contributions to our company and our community over the years,” said Zuckerberg, the world’s sixth-richest man with an estimated personal fortune of $133 billion. “Your dedication and guidance have contributed to our success, and I appreciate your unwavering dedication to me and Meta over the years.”

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Mr. Sandberg was one of six executive officers.
Name as it appears in the prospectus When Facebook filed for an initial public offering in 2012. With her resignation, Zuckerberg is the only one left among the six. She was considered so important to the company’s success that she was named, along with the founder, as one of the key people who posed a potential risk to investors’ funds in the event of their departure.

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Source: www.theguardian.com