TWIS VOL 3: ISSUE 1 -Sales

TWIS SCIENCE THIS WEEK IN

01-07 DEC 24

the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Also Inside!

Fossil Fuel CO2 Emissions Rise Once More in 2024

A Galaxy Collision at 3.2 Million km/h

“

Discover the Future, One Innovation at a Time!”

Scitke LLC, 112 Capitol Trail, Suite A303, Newcastle, US DE

SUBSCRIBE

NOW

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Image Credits: 4K Wallpapers

Advertisement

Find out more

Page. 2

This Week in Science

Climatology, Astronomy

Fossil Fuel CO2 Emissions Rise Once More in 2024

Image Credits: Pixabay

Global carbon emissions from fossil fuels hit a record high in 2024, according to the latest research from the Global Carbon Project.

Fossil CO2 emissions are projected to reach 37.4 billion tonnes, a 0.8% increase from 2023. Despite the urgent need to cut emissions to combat climate change, researchers say there is no sign yet of a peak in global fossil CO2 emissions.

fossil and land-use change emissions are on the rise, partly driven by drought and increased forest fires linked to the El Niño climate event.

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Rising Emissions Despite the overall increase in emissions, there are signs of progress. For example, renewable energy and electric vehicles are displacing fossil fuels, and deforestation emissions have decreased in recent decades. However, Dr. Glen Peters of CICERO cautioned that while some countries are reducing emissions, others are still increasing them, highlighting the need for faster, more global action to drive emissions downward toward net-zero.

Other key findings from the 2024 Global Carbon Budget include: •

Currently, more than 40 billion tonnes of CO2 are released into the atmosphere annually, pushing global temperatures higher and intensifying climate impacts.

Including emissions from land-use change, such as deforestation, total CO2 emissions are expected to rise to 41.6 billion tonnes in 2024, up from 40.6 billion tonnes in 2023. Over the past decade, fossil fuel emissions have steadily increased, while emissions from land-use change have decreased on average, leaving overall emissions relatively stable.

The research team, which includes experts from institutions such as the University of Exeter, University of East Anglia, and CICERO Center for International Climate Research, underscores that “time is running out” to meet Paris Agreement targets. Professor Pierre Friedlingstein, who led the study, warned that without rapid, deep cuts in emissions, global temperatures will continue to rise, causing severe consequences.

However, this year both

Signs of Progress Amid

•

Fossil Fuel Emissions: Coal emissions are projected to increase by 0.2%, oil by 0.9%, and gas by 2.4%, making up 41%, 32%, and 21% of global fossil CO2 emissions, respectively.

Coal emissions could still decline, depending on uncertainties in the projections.

Regional Emissions: China, which accounts for 32% of global emissions, is projected to see a slight increase of 0.2%. The US (13% of the total) is expected to decrease emissions by 0.6%, while India’s emissions (8% of the total) are projected to rise by 4.6%. The European Union’s emissions (7% of the total) are expected to decrease

•

•

by 3.8%.

Land-use Change: Emissions from deforestation are set to rise in 2024, reversing a decade-long decline, although reforestation efforts are offsetting about half of these emissions.

Global CO2 Levels: Atmospheric CO2 is projected to reach 422.5 ppm in 2024, 2.8 ppm higher than in 2023, and 52% above pre-industrial levels.

In summary, while some positive steps are being made, the research underscores the urgent need for accelerated global action to reduce emissions and mitigate the worsening effects of climate change.

A Galaxy Collision at 3.2 Million km/h Astronomers have observed a massive galaxy collision in remarkable detail, triggered by a galaxy traveling at 2 million mph (3.2 million km/h), using one of Earth’s most powerful telescopes.

The dramatic event occurred in Stephan’s Quintet, a galaxy group discovered nearly 150 years ago, and sparked a shockwave resembling a “sonic boom from a jet fighter.” This shock was triggered by NGC 7318b, a galaxy moving through the group, reigniting the debris from past galaxy collisions.

Page. 3

This Week in Science

Astronomy, Earth Science

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

A Growing Threat to Ecosystems and Human Health These particles are present in all marine organisms, from microalgae to top-of-the-chain fish, posing threats to marine ecosystems and raising alarms about their potential impact on human health.

Image credits: Pixabay

Astronomers Uncover Cosmic Collision with Advanced Tools

omers gain new understanding of galactic dynamics.

The team of over 60 astronomers used the William Herschel Telescope’s WEAVE spectrograph in La Palma, Spain, to uncover the collision.

WEAVE’s advanced capabilities, along with data from the James Webb Space Telescope and radio instruments like LOFAR, revealed key insights into the shock’s behavior.

This marks just the beginning of what WEAVE’s full operation will reveal over the next five years, promising to revolutionize our understanding of galaxy formation and the universe.

The team found that the shockwave moves through cold gas at hypersonic speeds, stripping electrons from atoms and leaving behind glowing charged gas. In contrast, when the shock passes through hot gas, it weakens, compressing the gas and emitting detectable radio waves.

A Gateway to Galactic Discovery Stephan’s Quintet remains an ideal laboratory for studying galaxy collisions. WEAVE’s first observations have provided unprecedented details, helping astron-

An Expert Discusses the True Impact of Microplastics on Human Health It’s well-known that enjoying a tasty fish fillet or a seafood platter provides essential nutrients like omega-3s and vitamin D. However, these meals often come with an unwelcome side: numerous micro- and nano-plastics.

Plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters find their way into oceans through human waste, infiltrating the food chain. An Ifremer study estimates about 24,400 billion microplastics float on the ocean’s surface.

What do we currently understand about how these pollutants accumulate in marine life and the risks they may pose to humans?

Plastic production has surged dramatically since the 1950s, with Europe alone producing 58 million tonnes in 2022, resulting in vast quantities of waste.

From Waste to Widespread Pollution Larger plastic waste gradually breaks down into microplastics (1–5 mm) and nanoplastics (smaller than 100 nanometers) due to exposure to wind, waves, sunlight, and microorganisms.

These tiny particles now pollute every part of the

environment, including air, soil, and water.

The accumulation of these plastics in organisms at various levels of the food chain is called “bioaccumulation.”

Our laboratory’s research shows that in aquatic ecosystems, micro- and nano-plastics are consumed by a variety of species, ranging from microalgae at the bottom of the food chain to top predators such as eels.

The ingestion of microplastics has significant consequences. Research indicates that these particles can have toxic effects on marine animals.

In mussels, for example, microplastics can obstruct digestive systems, trigger immune responses, cause DNA damage, and disrupt the expression of genes vital to various cellular functions.

The Complex Impact of Size, Composition, and Chemical Additives

Image credits: Pixabay

Page. 4

This Week in Science

Earth Science, Brain

The impact depends on factors such as the size, composition, level of degradation, and harmful chemical additives present in the plastics.

Many plastics contain high concentrations of phthalates, known endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormonal systems, posing threats not only to marine organisms but also to human health.

reduce plastic use and enhance recycling technologies are crucial to slowing this growing environmental and health challenge.

Plastics consumed by marine animals ultimately enter the human food chain.

Do you favor Black Friday or Cyber Monday? The January sales or Amazon Prime Day? Or maybe you prefer waiting for a traditional clearance event with deep discounts.

Frequent seafood eaters are estimated to consume thousands of microplastic particles each year. While the exact health effects on humans remain under study, some concerning possibilities have emerged.

Once inside the body, these particles may cause harm similar to that observed in fish.

Research on human cells suggests that micro- and nano-plastics can disrupt cellular functions, mirroring effects seen in marine life. Scientists are particularly worried about the toxic effects of plastic additives.

A Specialist Explains the Effects of Black Friday on Your Brain

No matter your shopping preferences, it’s likely that you enjoy the thrill of scoring a good deal.

The weeks leading up to Black Friday showcase this eager desire for discounts. Online, you’re constantly hit with ads and promotions for exclusive deals ahead of Christmas.

The Tradition of Post-Christmas Sales Physical retailers also embrace the sale season.

Joining a crowd of eager shoppers outside major stores on the day after Christmas has become a holiday tradition in itself.

However, it’s not always a peaceful affair. Recently, when the premium French kitchenware brand Le Creuset held a flash sale in Andover, England, police had to step in to manage the overwhelming crowds.

Shoppers traveled from far and wide, waiting for hours to grab discounted luxury cookware.

Past Black Friday sales have seen shoppers involved in physical altercations over in-demand items. In the U.S., a website was even created to track injuries—and fatalities—during the event.

It seems that discounted products, whether it’s electronics, kitchenware, or designer bags, are highly coveted in today’s culture.

The Science Behind Bargain Hunting: How Our Brains React to Discounts This obsession with bargains is partly driven by a chemical response in our brains that pushes us to buy when we encounter reduced prices. When we spot a deal, the pleasure center of our brain (the nucleus accumbens) lights up.

This means that people experience a strong sense of satisfaction when they find and purchase a bargain. The nucleus accumbens, along with other brain areas linked to reward, also plays a part in processing emotions, often in conjunction with the neurotransmitter dopamine.

Dopamine is a chemical that regulates the brain’s reward and pleasure centers and is tied to feelings of happiness.

When people view items they want to purchase, the part of the brain with dopamine receptors becomes activated.

This results in a dopamine “rush” while shopping, which makes people feel good about their actions. Add to this the fact that dopamine also makes people more impulsive in their decisions, and it becomes clear why discounts trigger such excitement in consumers.

Moreover, micro- and nano-plastics can serve as carriers for pathogens or bacteria, potentially heightening the risk of infections.

Addressing plastic bioaccumulation in the food chain is a pressing issue. Swift measures to

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Image Credits: Pixabay

Retailers and the Psychology of Shopping

Page. 5

This Week in Science

Brain, Archaeology,

If consumers enjoy feeling rewarded and satisfied, it’s up to retailers to deliver those feelings, and they use various strategies to help customers get their dopamine fix. Understanding the psychology behind shopping gives stores, big and small, a powerful set of tools for persuasion.

One such tool is offering deals for limited times, which creates a sense of urgency. This heightens adrenaline levels, making customers feel excited about the possibility of scoring a bargain. This is why sales are often tied to specific days, weeks, or months.

A countdown timer on a website works in a similar way, pushing consumers to act quickly before they miss out.

The good news is that consumers can resist these biological urges and avoid falling for the lure of a deal, though it requires some self-control.

When you come across a low-priced product, avoid the impulse to buy it immediately. Take your time to think it over.

If you’re in a physical store and worried that someone else might snatch it up, carry the item with you and walk around for a bit. As the initial urgency fades, you’ll likely feel less compelled to buy.

The same strategy works online—take a break, step away from your screen, and let the urge to grab a deal lessen.

No matter how great the discount or how tempting the item, you may eventually realize it’s not as necessary to your life as you initially thought.

Remarkable Fossil Reveals a 12-Million-YearOld Crocodile

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

ing relative is the Indian gharial.”

The discovery was a collaborative effort between Peru’s Geological, Mining, and Metallurgical Institute and La Union School.

The Ocucaje Desert is a treasure trove of fossils. Previous finds from the Miocene period (5 to 23 million years ago) include remains of four-legged dwarf whales, dolphins, sharks, and other ancient species.

bacteria from severely injured, infected war patients. Using samples from 141 individuals, including 133 adults and 8 newborns with pneumonia, the study revealed widespread resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics. Alarmingly, 6% of the samples were resistant to all antibiotics tested.

The findings, recently published in the Journal of Infection, focused on Klebsiella pneumoniae, a bacteria capable of causing urinary tract

On Wednesday, paleontologists revealed the fossil of a young marine crocodile, estimated to be 10 to 12 million years old, uncovered in a Peruvian desert.

The three-meter-long (nearly 10-foot) gharial, or fish-eating crocodile, was discovered in late 2023 in the Ocucaje Desert, about 350 kilometers (190 miles) south of Lima, in near-perfect condition.

“This is the first juvenile specimen we’ve found,” said vertebrate paleontologist Mario Gamarra during a news conference. “It hadn’t yet reached its full size when it died.”

Gamarra, who led the fossil’s reconstruction, noted that the skull and jaws of this ancient crocodile differed from modern crocodiles and alligators. “It had an elongated snout and fed exclusively on fish,” he explained. “Its closest liv-

The almost complete skeleton of a young marine crocodile. (Ernesto Benavides/AFP)

Pandrug-Resistant Bacteria Emerging From the War in Ukraine are Highly Pathogenic Kristian Riesbeck, a professor of clinical bacteriology at Lund University, was approached by Ukrainian microbiologist Oleksandr Nazarchuk for help in assessing antibiotic resistance in

infections, pneumonia, wound infections, and sepsis. Researchers analyzed samples from 37 patients previously found to carry resistant strains. Whole-genome sequencing confirmed that all bacteria contained genes linked to antibiotic resistance. Notably, a quarter of these strains were completely resistant to available antimicrobial drugs (pandrug-resistant), making

Page. 6

This Week in Science

Astronomy, Computer & Electronics

In its newest series of short-throw projectors, Panasonic has boosted the brightness. One model offers 7,000 lumens, while the other provides 6,200 lumens, making them the company’s most powerful fixed, short-throw LCD laser projectors to date.

Image Cedits: Pixabay

them nearly impossible to treat with current medicines.

To explore the bacteria’s potential for further spread, the team conducted experiments on mice and insect larvae.

They discovered that the most antibiotic-resistant strains were also the most virulent, causing severe pneumonia in mice and rapidly killing insect larvae. Genetic analysis confirmed that these strains carried virulence genes in addition to resistance genes.

Ukrainian Strains Defy Expectations: Highly Resistant and Virulent “Typically, bacteria lose their ability to cause disease as they become more resistant,” explains Professor Riesbeck.

“But these strains from Ukraine defy that pattern, remaining both highly resistant and highly virulent.” He warns that these bacteria will likely continue to spread and cause severe infections as long as proper isolation and treatment are unavaila-

ble.

Riesbeck describes the results as alarming but unsurprising, highlighting the collapse of healthcare infrastructure in war zones like Ukraine.

“This isn’t unique to Ukraine; similar issues arise in other conflict-affected areas. Pandrug-resistant bacteria remain equipped with genes that allow them to thrive and cause disease, posing a significant threat to global health.”

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a leading cause of bacterial mortality worldwide, responsible for an estimated 20% of deaths linked to antimicrobial resistance. The study received support from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, Swedish Research Council, Swedish Heart Lung Foundation, and ALF funding from Region Skåne.

Panasonic’s New Short-Throw Projectors are Designed to Deliver Sharp, Bright Visuals

The VMZ7ST Series models are from Panasonic Connect, the company’s business-oriented division, and both are designed to enhance “corporate and immersive museum environments.”

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

ed in museums, where the wide-range vertical and horizontal lens shift will help reduce visitor shadows. Regardless of the environment, the 1.2x optical zoom with powered focus ensures sharp WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200) images. The projection tilt can be monitored remotely with the Angle Monitor feature, and geometric correction functions allow projection onto various surfaces.

Advanced Features for Optimal Image Quality

Ideal for Museums and Diverse Environments

The laser light source is rated for 20,000 hours of maintenance-free use.

In addition to its impressive brightness during standard operation, the projectors also offer eco and quiet modes for less intense settings.

Panasonic has integrated Daylight View Basic technology, allowing image quality adjustments based on ambient lighting. Users can also modify the hue, saturation, and color value to suit the environment.

These projectors are likely to be ceiling-mount-

These projectors are not smart models, so users

Both models are essentially identical, with the main difference being their brightness output.

Therefore, we’ll focus on the features and specs of the VMZ7ST model, which includes a throw ratio of 0.797-1.01:1. This allows users to project 100-inch diagonal visuals from approximately 5.6 feet (1.72 meters) away from the display surface.

Image Cedits: Panasonic

Page. 7

This Week in Science

Computer & Electronics, Astronomy, Earth Science

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

must connect them to a computer via a 15pin D-sub, a network through Ethernet, or wirelessly with an optional dongle.

ergy particles. The study exemplifies OPAL’s goal of uncovering atmospheric dynamics across the solar system’s gas giants.

Sustainability features include a chassis made partly from recycled resins, an energy-efficient auto power-on function that activates the projection engine when a signal is detected, and a nearly 53% improvement in power efficiency compared to competing models. The dust filter is also washable and reusable up to two times.

“Understanding connections between atmospheric layers is crucial for all planets, including exoplanets and Earth,” Wong explained. “These findings reveal processes linking Jupiter’s internal dynamo, its satellites, plasma environment, ionosphere, and stratospheric hazes, helping us view the planet as a cohesive system.”

The new VMZ projectors are expected to be available in Europe starting in the first quarter of 2025, though pricing has yet to be announced.

A Magnetic Vortex is Churning the Haze at Jupiter’s Poles Jupiter’s Great Red Spot has long been a planetary icon. However, UC Berkeley astronomers have now identified equally massive, Earthsized dark spots at the planet’s poles. These UVdark ovals, which appear within the stratospheric haze at the poles, come and go unpredictably.

Notably, they sit just below the auroral zones and absorb more ultraviolet light, making them stand out as dark features in images from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Between 2015 and 2022, Hubble images showed southern UV-dark ovals (SUDO) 75% of the time.

In contrast, northern UV-dark ovals (NUDO) appeared in only one out of eight images.

Unusual Magnetic Activity at Jupiter’s Poles Moreover, these ovals point to unusual magnetic processes at Jupiter’s poles that extend deep into the atmosphere, far below the aurora-producing magnetic activities seen on Earth. The findings, published in Nature Astronomy, highlight research led by UC Berkeley undergraduate Troy Tsubota and senior astronomer Michael Wong.

Tsubota analyzed Hubble images, identifying eight SUDOs between 1994 and 2022, while only two NUDOs were spotted in the same period.

The images, part of the Outer Planet Atmospheres Legacy (OPAL) project led by NASA’s Amy Simon, track at-

mospheric dynamics on Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Tsubota described the data as a “gold mine,” enabling detailed analysis and new discoveries.

Magnetic Vortices May Drive Haze Formation at Jupiter’s Poles In fact, the team, including experts Tom Stallard and Xi Zhang, studied the cause of the dense hazes. However, Stallard proposed that a vortex, created by magnetic field interactions in Jupiter’s ionosphere and plasma, stirs the atmosphere, forming the dark ovals. This vortex weakens with depth, like a tornado lifting dust, though it’s unclear whether it draws haze from below or creates new haze.

The ovals appear to form in about a month and dissipate within weeks.

Zhang noted the haze in these ovals is 50 times thicker than normal, driven more by vortex dynamics than chemical reactions from high-en-

Air Fryers Found to Be the Least Polluting Cooking Method Air fryers emit significantly less indoor air pollution than other cooking methods, such as pan and deep frying, according to a new study.

While cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution, much of the research has focused on air fryers’ energy efficiency, leaving their environmental benefits less explored. Since most people spend over 80% of their time indoors, exposure to indoor pollutants is a serious health concern, linked to conditions like cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and respiratory diseases.

Cooking Methods and Air Quality

Page. 8

This Week in Science

Healthcare, Entertainment

Researchers from the University of Birmingham’s School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences conducted experiments in a controlled research kitchen. This setup bridged the gap between lab-based studies and real-world domestic environments.

Their findings, published in Indoor Air, compared five cooking methods: pan frying, stir-frying, deep frying, boiling, and air frying. They measured emissions of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Peak particulate matter concentrations (µg/ m³) were as follows: pan frying (92.9), stir-frying (26.7), deep frying (7.7), boiling (0.7), and air frying (0.6). For VOCs (ppb), pan frying recorded 260, deep frying 230, stir-frying 110, boiling 30, and air frying 20. The re-

searchers also identified the specific VOCs most strongly emitted during cooking.

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Advertisement

A Key to Reducing Cooking Pollution Lead author Professor Christian Pfrang noted that pollution levels depend on factors like oil quantity and stove temperature. He emphasized the importance of ventilation, recommending open windows or extractor fans to disperse pollutants and lower exposure.

Pollutant levels remained elevated for over an hour after cooking, despite the process lasting only about 10 minutes. Professor Pfrang advised keeping extractor fans on or continuing to ventilate after cooking to prevent pollutant buildup and reduce exposure throughout the home.

Thunderbird is a powerful, privacy-focused email app.

Effortlessly manage multiple email accounts from one app, with a Unified Inbox option for maximum productivity. Built on open-source technology and supported by a dedicated team of developers alongside a global community of volunteers, Thunderbird never treats your private data as a product. Supported solely by financial contributions from our users, so you never have to see ads mixed in with your emails again.

What you can do Ditch multiple apps and webmail. Use one app, with an optional Unified Inbox, to power through your day.

Enjoy a privacy-friendly email client that never collects or sells your personal data. We directly connect you to your email provider. That’s it!

Take your privacy to the next level by using OpenPGP email encryption (PGP/MIME) with the “OpenKeychain” app, to encrypt and decrypt your messages.

Choose to sync your email instantly, at set intervals, or on-demand. However you want to check your email, it’s up to you!

Find your important messages using both local and server-side search.

Compatibility Thunderbird works with IMAP and POP3 protocols, supporting a wide range of email providers, including Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, iCloud, and more.

Why use Thunderbird The trusted name in email for over 20 years - now on Android.

Thunderbird is fully funded by voluntary contributions from our users. We don’t mine your personal data. You are never the product.

Lava Music says that the Genie “empowers you to play along with singing, spark ideas, and explore sounds in seconds”. Lava Music

Made by a team that is as efficiency-minded as you are. We want you to spend minimal time using the app while getting maximum in return.

With contributors from all over the world, Thunderbird for Android has been translated into more than 20 languages.

Supported by MZLA Technologies Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Mozilla Foundation.

Page. 9

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Climate & Environment

Scientists question “tipping point” metaphor in climate talks

Image Credits: AP

Image Credits: AP

Did COP29 achieve progress on climate change?

The latest UN climate conference highlighted urgent financial needs to address climate change. Delegates set a $300 billion annual funding goal, with plans to reach $1.3 trillion by 2035, but uncertainties over funding mechanisms persist. A UN-backed carbon credit trading system could generate $250 billion, though concerns about over-reliance on credits remain. Experts criticized the outcomes as insufficient, warning that emissions must drop 7.5% yearly to avoid severe global impacts. The shift to renewables is hindered by upfront costs and subsidies for fossil fuels, which totaled $7 trillion in 2022. To drive progress, market reforms are needed to attract investment and phase out fossil fuel support.

Image Credits: Pixabay

China urges World Court to include climate obligations in UN treaties China told the ICJ that existing UN treaties should guide its advisory opinion on states’ climate responsibilities, aligning with its support for the UN’s climate negotiation mechanisms. This request follows a campaign led by small island nations like Vanuatu, which has urged the court to recognize climate harm and require reparations.

Though ICJ opinions are nonbinding, they hold political and legal influence and could shape climate lawsuits globally. Over 100 states will share views, with the US addressing the court next.

The final opinion is anticipated in 2025, marking a critical step in global climate governance.

Scientists from Rutgers, Princeton, and Carleton argue the term “tipping point” is vague and unhelpful in motivating climate action. While originally a warning metaphor, its broad application to uncertain phenomena and social issues risks confusing the public and obscuring the urgency of present-day climate harm.

Image Credits: Nick Romanenko via rutgers.edu

Top UN court hears landmark climate case amid island nations’ sea level fears The U.N.’s top court is hearing a historic case on global climate responsibilities, prompted by vulnerable nations like Vanuatu. The proceedings aim to clarify legal obligations to combat climate change and its impacts on small island states and future generations. Although non-binding, the decision could influence domestic and global climate litigation.

Amid rising sea levels and insufficient funding from wealthy nations, the ICJ will examine states’ duties under international law and potential consequences for inaction.

Page. 10

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Artificial Intelligence I’s high energy demand could also boost energy production The growing energy demands of AI-driven data centers require faster permitting for clean energy infrastructure. Federal officials, like Emma Nicholson of FERC, highlight AI’s potential to streamline this process. Goldman Sachs predicts a 160% rise in data center power needs by 2030, straining current regulatory frameworks.

DOE is investing $20 million in AI tools, including VoltAIc, to expedite permitting by analyzing NEPA reviews.

Image Credits: Pixabay

AI technology solves 500-year-old art mystery AI is revolutionizing art authentication by analyzing datasets to identify intricate stylistic details, with 98% accuracy in works like Raphael’s Madonna della Rosa.

Researchers use convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and deep learning models to classify artworks, improving historical understanding.

AI is also expanding into authenticating works by other artists and analyzing global art styles. While challenges like scarce training data remain, AI complements traditional methods, offering faster assessments and reshaping art studies.

Image Credits: Museo Nacional del Prado_PA

Micron (MU) adapts to U.S.-China semiconductor restrictions while AI expands

Should Jews use AI to revive the dead?

Micron Technology (NASDAQ:MU) ranks 3rd in trending AI stocks this weekend, as AI and a resilient economy boost the S&P. The Biden administration is considering restrictions on semiconductor and AI chip sales to China, which could affect Micron.

Imagine creating an AI simulation of a deceased loved one using their digital presence, such as texts and videos, allowing conversations with a facsimile of their personality. This is becoming possible, with advancements in AI technology, including companies in China already working on video and audio simulations.

AI is helping improve crop resilience, such as in cranberry production, by identifying heat-resistant varieties. Our research suggests that mimicking hedge fund picks can outperform the market, with our strategy returning 275% since May 2014.

As families navigate mourning, they may soon choose how to remember their loved ones, with AI offering a new, personal way to connect. This raises important ethical questions about the role of AI in death rituals and remembrance.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: David Zvi Kalman_DALL-E

Page. 11

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Entertainment

Image Credits: MSI

Claw 7 AI+: MSI’s refreshed Image Credits: REDMAGIC gaming handheld on GadNova: REDMAGIC gaming get Flow tablet with Snapdragon 8 The MSI Claw 7 AI+ and Claw 8 AI+ Gen 3 on Gadget Flow deliver next-gen mobile gaming powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 processors (Series 2). With ergonomic designs, Cooler Boost HyperFlow cooling, and AI-enhanced visuals, these devices support over 150 AAA titles and ensure comfortable, high-performance gameplay on vibrant 7-inch or 8-inch displays.

Equipped with dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and an extensive game library, they double as Mini PCs with Copilot+ capabilities. Offering longer battery life, optimized power, and superior FPS, the Claw series sets a new benchmark in portable gaming. Full specs are at www.msi.com.

The REDMAGIC Nova Gaming Tablet, powered by the 3rd-gen Snapdragon 8 Leading Version chip, delivers 3.4GHz CPU and 1GHz GPU frequencies for top-tier performance. Its 10.9-inch 2.8K display with a 144Hz refresh rate ensures stunning visuals and precise touch response, while DTS-X Ultra Sound and 4 symmetrical speakers provide immersive 3D audio. Advanced cooling with a 20,000 RPM fan and a massive 10,100mAh dual-cell battery with 80W fast charging ensure hours of smooth gameplay. Built for power and speed, the REDMAGIC Nova Gaming Tablet redefines mobile gaming excellence.

Image Credits: Redemption Road via store. steampowered.com

Kingmakers: Early Access launch window announced Kingmakers is an action-strategy sandbox game where players travel back to medieval England in 1400 AD to prevent an apocalypse. Players can fight for England, Scotland, or Wales, with multiple endings based on their choices.

The game combines third-person shooter and strategy modes, allowing players to use modern weapons and command medieval units.

Fortnite OG: Chapter 1 Season 1 Image Credits: Fortnite

Fortnite OG, launching on December 6, is a permanent mode that brings players back to the game’s early days, starting with Chapter 1: Season 1. It will run alongside Chapter 6: Hunters and include a full-sized, recreated map from the original Fortnite Island.

The OG Battle Pass includes 45 reward tiers, featuring updated classic skins. Players can progress through the pass by earning XP in any Fortnite game mode, adding a fresh twist to nostalgic gameplay.

Page. 12

This Week in Science

Material & Energy, Biology

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

World’s Largest Gold Deposit Discovered, uncertainty.

Valued at Over US$80 Billion

While experts remain divided on whether we’ve reached “peak ore,” the latest discovery suggests there may still be significant, untapped gold reserves. This finite resource, formed in the intense heat of stars long before Earth existed, takes millions of years to become accessible for mining.

Image Credits: (bodnarchuk/Getty Images)

Scientists have discovered a high-quality gold deposit in central China containing approximately 1,000 metric tons (1,100 US tons) of the precious metal, according to Chinese state media.

Valued at around 600 billion yuan (US$83 billion), this find could be the largest and most lucrative gold reservoir ever uncovered, surpassing the 900 metric tons estimated in South Africa’s South Deep mine, the world’s largest known gold reserve.

The Geological Bureau of Hunan Province revealed that researchers discovered 40 gold veins within a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) depth in Pingjiang, a county in northeast Hunan. These veins are believed to contain 300 metric tons of gold, and 3D modeling suggests that additional reserves may extend to 3 kilometers deep.

“Many drilled rock cores

showed visible gold,” said Chen Rulin, a prospector with the bureau.

The core samples indicate that each metric ton of ore could yield up to 138 grams (nearly 5 ounces) of ore—an extraordinary quality, as high-grade ore typically contains more than 8 grams per ton.

China Dominates the Global Gold Market, Holding Over 2,000 Tons in Reserves and Contributing 10% of Global Output China is already a dominant player in the global gold market, holding reserves of over 2,000 tons as of early 2024. The country’s mining industry contributes around 10 percent of the world’s total ore output.

The announcement of this discovery has contributed to a further surge in gold prices, driven by growing global demand and economic

Additional core samples from the Hunan site indicate that the deposit may extend further than initially estimated, potentially making it one of the richest gold reserves on the planet.

A Banner Year for Gold Discoveries: Major Finds in England and Australia This discovery adds to a year already marked by impressive ore finds. In March, a treasure hunter in England uncovered what might be the largest gold nugget ever found in the country. Moreover, just two months ago, Australian scientists discovered a new process that could explain how seismic activity from earthquakes helps form large ore nuggets.

In addition to learning more about the natural formation of gold, researchers are also exploring innovative ways to manipulate this precious metal. A study published in April introduced “goldene,” a new form of two-dimensional gold just one atom layer thick,

which exhibits properties distinct from traditional three-dimensional ore.

While people have prized ore for millennia, these discoveries show that we still have much to learn about this ancient and valuable metal.

Why Preserving Muscle Mass Is Crucial for Healthy Aging We all wish for a longer life—at least, I know I do—but what about ensuring that we enjoy good health during the time we have?

Over the past century, human life expectancy has significantly increased for several reasons, particularly advances in sanitation, public health, nutrition, and medicine. These improvements have reduced mortality, especially among younger people, allowing more individuals to live longer.

For instance, in 2021, Canadians had an average life expectancy of 81.6 years, marking an impressive 24.5-year increase since 1921.

Projections indicate that by 2050, the population aged 85 and older will triple.

While the rise in life expectancy is a remarkable achievement, it is essential to distinguish between lifespan—the total years of life—and healthspan—the years

Page. 13

This Week in Science

Material & Energy,

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

used. This adaptability offers an opportunity to counteract muscle loss with regular exercise and proper nutrition.

Skeletal muscle fibers (multinucleated cells) with their nerve connections. (Ed Reschke/Stone/Getty Images)

spent in good health.

Today, older adults often experience prolonged periods of poor health, placing a significant strain on both individuals and public health systems.

At an advanced age, the ability to maintain independence is critical to quality of life. Thus, it’s not enough to merely extend life; we must also extend the healthspan to match, reducing the gap between the two as much as possible.

The idea of extending healthspan challenges the belief that age-related diseases are inevitable and untreatable.

The Role of Muscle in Extending Healthspan A major challenge for the aging population is the decline in muscle mass, strength, and function, known as sarcopenia. This condition can lead to reduced independence, metabolic disorders, and an increased risk of falls and fractures.

Muscle plays a crucial role in posture, movement, and metabolism.

It serves as a storage for glucose and lipids and helps regulate blood sugar. It also acts as a “buffer” of amino acids during times of stress, such as illness.

Research shows that muscle health at the time of hospital admission can predict outcomes like ventilator-free days and mortality. Unfortunately, muscle loss begins around the age of 50, with a decline of about 1% in muscle mass and 3% in strength annually. Periods of inactivity, such as during illness or hospitalization, accelerate this decline.

Even short-term reductions in physical activity—such as a few weeks of decreased walking— can lead to muscle loss, decreased strength, and worsened blood glucose control in older adults.

Maintaining Muscle Health with Age The good news is that muscle tissue is highly adaptable, responding to physical activity by growing stronger and shrinking when not

At McMaster University, my research team investigates how exercise and nutrition impact muscle health, with a focus on aging. Our findings show that even light resistance training can be effective in combating muscle loss, particularly when combined with a higher intake of protein.

Older adults, in particular, require more protein than current guidelines suggest. Research from our lab recommends consuming 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily—up to 100% more than the current recommendation—derived from a mix of animal and plant-based sources.

By engaging in consistent physical exercise and consuming adequate high-quality protein, you can enhance muscle health and close the gap between healthspan and lifespan. In doing so, you can maintain your independence and improve your quality of life as you age.

Study Finds Traffic Noises Boosts Stress and Anxiety Levels Manmade noises, like vehicle traffic, can reduce the stress-relieving effects of natural soundscapes, according

to a November 27, 2024, study in PLOS ONE by Paul Lintott and Lia Gilmour.

Previous research shows natural sounds, such as birdsong, lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress. In contrast, human-made noises like traffic negatively affect health.

In this study, 68 students listened to three 3-minute soundscapes: natural sounds alone, mixed with 20 mph traffic, and with 40 mph traffic.

Participants rated their mood and anxiety levels before and after each session using self-reported scales.

Nature’s Sounds and Stress The findings revealed that listening to the natural soundscape significantly reduced stress and anxiety, while also boosting mood recovery after a stressor. However, the calming effects were less pronounced when traffic sounds were added.

The pure nature soundscape resulted in the lowest stress and anxiety levels, while the version with 40 mph traffic led to the highest levels of distress.

The Case for Reducing Urban Traffic Speeds The researchers suggest that lowering traffic speeds in urban areas could improve public health, not only by en-

Page. 14

TWIS 01-07 17-23 NOV DEC 24 24

hancing safety but also by preserving the therapeutic effects of natural soundscapes.

They conclude, “Our study demonstrates that natural soundscapes can reduce stress and anxiety, but these benefits are masked by traffic noise.

Reducing urban traffic speeds is a crucial step toward allowing more people to experience nature’s positive impact on their health and well-being.”

Image Credits: Depositphotos

Advertisement

Samsung OLED 4K S90D TV 65 Inches, 165 cm, TV with Neural Quantum 4K AI Gen2 Processor, OLED HDR+, 4K AI Upscaling, Smart TV, AI TV, 65S90D, [2024]

If you want the best TV overall, I recommend the Samsung S90D. This midrange OLED delivers deep black levels that disappear into a dark room, along with vibrant colors and an infinite contrast ratio. Shoppers who want to spend less should consider my budget pick, the Hisense U6N. Unlike other displays in its price range, the U6N has a Mini LED backlight, which gives it better picture quality than its competitors. The 65-inch model is often on sale for as low as $500.

Visit Page. 15

w TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Leading Decades of Stealth Innovation

Leading Decades of Stealth Innovation

Learn More

For three decades, the B-2 Spirit, built by Northrop Grumman, has been the backbone of stealth technology for the U.S. Air Force and has been commemorated in the Pioneers of Stealth Memorial at the National Museum of the United States Air Force Memorial Park, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

Page. 16

TWIS TWIS03-09 01-07NOV DEC24 24

Did you know

Page.

Page. 17 20

Advertisement

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Nine Sols Nine Sols is a story-driven, hand-drawn 2D action-platformer game with Sekiro-inspired defense-based combat. Embark on a journey through Asian fantasy worlds, explore a land once ruled by an ancient alien race, and follow a vengeful hero on his quest to defeat the 9 Sols—the powerful rulers of this abandoned empire.

Visit now

Term of the Week

“

Kangaroo Care A method of holding a preterm infant skin-to-skin to promote bonding and health.

Page. 18

Advertisement

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

Buy now

COMING UP NEXT

A Beautiful Planet 3D (U)

Important information before booking: • All children under 12 must be accompanied by a paying adult •To book a wheelchair space/accessible seat, please call our Contact Centre team on 033 0058 0058.

Book Tickets

Page. 19

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Cars & Gadgets

Jaguar unveils bold Type 00 concept

In 2020, amid Covid-induced uncertainty, Jaguar’s design team launched the ambitious Vision concept Type 00. Symbolizing a fresh start, this car reflects a bold gamble to revive the brand and lead in innovation.

The rebranding faced criticism, but the Type 00 car now provides substance to Jaguar’s aspirations.

Combining cutting-edge design and performance, it represents a high-stakes effort to reclaim Jaguar’s legacy.

Image Credits: Sensibo

The Sensibo Air The Sensibo Air upgrades traditional air conditioners with smart features like geolocation, automated temperature triggers, and smartphone control. Priced at $169, it reduces energy use by up to 50% and offers voice control with Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa.

Features like Climate React and smart scheduling make it ideal for maintaining comfort and efficiency. Easy to install and use, the Sensibo Air is a cost-effective solution for modernizing ACs while significantly lowering energy costs.

Image Credits: Jaguar Image Credits: Activision

Beats by Dre Studio Pro

The Lola wind tunnel

The Beats by Dre Studio Pro headphones offer advanced features like voice-targeting mics for clear calls, lossless audio, and two adaptive listening modes: ANC and Transparency. They provide an immersive 360-degree audio experience with Personalized Spatial Audio and dynamic head tracking.

The Lola wind tunnel, famed for aiding motorsport legends and top manufacturers, is now available for sale. Offering precision aerodynamics testing with its advanced six-component balance system and Cosworth software, it remains vital for validating CFD models and optimizing performance.

Highly versatile, the modular facility can be relocated worldwide and supports testing for EVs, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.

With its ability to reduce drag and enhance battery efficiency, it provides a cost-effective solution for carmakers seeking to refine next-generation designs while ensuring data security and privacy.

Image Credits: Freepik Page. 20

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Mathematics

Image Credits: Pixabay

How math improves you as a person

Image Credits: JASON SOLO_THE JACKY WINTER GROUP

AI struggles with “brutal” math test, but human experts succeed AI models like ChatGPT excel at math tests but still lack real mathematical skill, as evidenced by their poor performance on the latest benchmark created by Epoch AI. Despite solving common problems, AI struggles with research-level math and faces challenges like data contamination, which inflates their perceived capabilities.

Experts predict that AI models will eventually improve but caution that access to these tools and their societal impacts need consideration. Some, like Jeremy Avigad, view AI as a valuable companion for mathematicians, while others, such as Maia Fraser, worry about AI’s potential to create an exclusive research ecosystem.

Mathematics education has evolved to consider sociocultural factors, with East Asian countries outperforming others, partly due to Confucian Heritage values like collectivism and respect for education. Research on motivation shows that Western students are more intrinsically motivated, while students in Confucian cultures tend to focus on extrinsic goals like fulfilling family expectations.

For me, the value of mathematics lies not in solving everyday problems but in cultivating critical thinking and the pursuit of truth.

Mathematical model reveals how exercise suppresses tumor growth

Image Credits: Pixabay

First woman earns PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana Dr. Botchway’s journey from humble beginnings to earning a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana highlights her resilience. Facing significant challenges, including poverty and frequent relocations, she persevered with the support of her mother and a passion for Mathematics, ultimately becoming the first woman to achieve this milestone in 2024.Dr. Botchway’s story serves as an inspiration for women in STEM, showcasing how determination, education, and support can overcome barriers. She now aims to improve Mathematics education for girls and aspires to become the first female Professor of Mathematics at the University of Ghana.

A research team from the USA and India developed a mathematical model to study how exercise impacts immune function and cancer. The model shows that exercise intensity and duration influence tumor suppression by activating natural killer cells, which kill tumor cells. The results suggest that greater intensity, duration, and frequency of exercise enhance tumor suppression.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Page. 21

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Quantum Realm

Image Credits: NTU Singapore

Scientists find method to shrink quantum computer components by 1,000x NTU researchers have developed a method to produce entangled photon pairs using 1.2-micrometer-thick materials, making quantum computing components significantly smaller and simpler.

This breakthrough eliminates the need for bulky optical equipment, opening the door to compact and scalable quantum technologies.

By using niobium oxide dichloride and a unique stacking technique, the team has made it possible to create quantum systems that are both more efficient and capable of enabling faster, more powerful quantum computing and secure communication.

Quantum vortices validate the superfluidity of supersolids

Quantum battery developed to store energy using particle spin

Researchers have created quantum vortices in a two-dimensional supersolid, a material that is both solid and superfluid. Using ultra-cold erbium atoms, they manipulated the gas into a supersolid phase and applied magnetic fields to induce rotation without destabilizing the structure, leading to the formation of quantized quantum vortices.

A research team at the University of Genova has developed a spin quantum battery that stores and releases energy using the spin properties of particles. The battery charges without the need for an external field, offering a new approach to quantum energy storage. The team’s breakthrough extends their research into spin quantum batteries, exploring a system with many elements. Their method, which uses time-dependent modulation, promises more efficient and stable quantum batteries, with further studies on factors like temperature and interactions influencing the charging process.

This breakthrough confirms that superfluidity can coexist with solid rigidity in supersolids, challenging existing theories and offering potential applications in superconductors and simulating astrophysical phenomena like neutron star glitches caused by superfluid vortices.

Image Credits: Freepik

Image Credits: Pixabay

China creates first quantum engine: Fuel-free and defies physics China’s quantum engine uses quantum entanglement to produce energy without traditional fuels, challenging conventional thermodynamics. Researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology demonstrated this engine’s ability to generate energy through entangled particles, showing greater efficiency than previous models.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Page. 22

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Page. 23

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Exploring genetic roots of rare Alzheimer’s mutations

Biotech & Genetic Gene-edited pig kidney transplanted into monkey survives over 6 months

Images Credits: VIB

Images Credits: Pixabay

Minority genetic variation in tuberculosis offers new outbreak tracking insights Images Credits: Pixabay

China’s first gene-edited pig kidney survived for over 184 days in a monkey, following a successful pig liver transplant into a human earlier this year. This breakthrough could accelerate human trials and future organ transplantation research, particularly with pig organs, which are genetically edited to reduce rejection risks.

With only twenty recorded cases of long-term survival in monkeys after gene-edited pig kidney transplants, this research could address the global organ shortage.

A study in The Lancet Microbe explored within-host variation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) to improve transmission inferences. Researchers found that MTBC isolates from epidemiologically linked individuals exhibited higher variation compared to unlinked pairs, suggesting minority variants can provide valuable epidemiological insights.

The study showed that shared within-host variation could enhance transmission prediction accuracy.

Research led by Prof. Wim Annaert at VIB-KU Leuven uncovered how PSEN2 mutations accelerate Alzheimer’s in Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD). Their study showed that both loss and mutation of PSEN2 in mice led to faster amyloid plaque accumulation and significant cognitive impairments. The findings highlight the role of PSEN2 in maintaining cellular processes, and suggest that targeting these cellular dysfunctions could offer new treatments. Restoring endosomal and lysosomal function or normalizing γ-secretase activity might slow disease progression in FAD patients.

How tech is defying biology IVG (in-vitro gametogenesis) is advancing beyond IVF, allowing any cell to be transformed into sperm or egg cells, potentially enabling infertile individuals or same-sex couples to have genetically related children. This technology could even allow someone to have a baby with themselves, challenging the concept of infertility and raising ethical questions.

As IVG progresses, it may require artificial wombs to support embryos outside the body.

Images Credits: Pixabay

Page. 24

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

TWIS 07-14 SEP 24

Images Credits: Freepik

NJINGA-1 CubeSat Nginga-1 is a CubeSat designed to demonstrate cutting-edge small satellite technology. Compact and efficient, it embodies the innovation of CubeSats, providing a low-cost platform for advanced missions. Nginga-1 is equipped to perform [specific mission, e.g., Earth observation, communication, or scientific research], leveraging miniaturized components to deliver impactful results in space.

By joining the CubeSat revolution, Nginga-1 showcases the potential of small satellites to contribute to space exploration and research, democratizing access to space for more players.”

Page. 25

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Wellness

Images Credits: Alpas Wellness

Alpas Wellness Centers Alpas Wellness Centers in Maryland provide individualized, evidence-based treatment for substance use and mental health challenges. Their serene facility offers medical detox, inpatient care, and tailored support, empowering clients to focus solely on recovery.

With 24/7 medical monitoring, holistic treatments, and specialized care for conditions like diabetes or chronic pain, Alpas ensures a safe and comprehensive healing process. The center’s amenities and tranquil environment promote recovery for the mind, body, and spirit.

Natural Grocers’ top 2025 trends focus on full-body wellness

Why sleep is key to health; free 1:1 sleep coaching available

Natural Grocers’ Top Trends for 2025 spotlight Health and Wellness, Body Care, Food, and Ecological Thoughtfulness. Key highlights include blood sugar-friendly habits, ocean-inspired body care, high-quality proteins, and reducing omega-6 oils. These trends inspire healthier, more sustainable lifestyles and practical gift ideas.

The forecast also emphasizes ecological actions, like regenerative agriculture and eliminating forever chemicals. With a Bonus Trend focusing on biodiversity, Natural Grocers connects these insights into a comprehensive vision for promoting health and sustainability.

With the busy holiday season ahead, prioritizing sleep is crucial for both mental and physical well-being. Inadequate sleep can impact cognitive function, increase the risk of chronic health conditions, and reduce your ability to perform daily tasks. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep to recharge your body and mind. Good sleep supports hormone regulation, immunity, and mental health.

Image Credits: storebrands.com

Image Credits: Claudio Scott from Pixabay

The Chenot Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessment The Chenot Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessment evaluates cardiovascular and respiratory health using advanced, non-invasive testing. It measures key fitness indicators like VO2 max and recovery rates to provide personalized insights for optimizing endurance and overall health. With tailored recommendations based on your unique results, this assessment helps enhance stamina, prevent overtraining, and achieve fitness goals. It’s an ideal tool for improving physical performance and long-term well-being.

Image Credits: Alex Teuscher via chenot.com

Page. 26

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Nutrition

Mums may influence their child’s IQ with a simple diet change before birth

Image Credits: Unsplash

Study suggests more plant protein may improve Image Credits: Photographer_ Victor Protasio, Food Stylist_ Sally McKay, Prop Stylist_ Hannah Greenwood

Cozy winter dinners for better blood sugar These comforting dinners feature winter produce and focus on whole grains and fiber to support healthy blood sugar levels. With low saturated fat and sodium, they’re ideal for those managing diabetes. Recipes like Chicken Parmesan Soup and Lemon-Garlic Sheet-Pan Salmon with Potatoes & Green Beans offer delicious, easy-to-make meals.

Image Credits: Pixabay

A Harvard study reveals that higher plant-to-animal protein ratios may reduce the risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart disease, primarily by replacing red and processed meats with plant proteins. The ideal ratio for preventing CVD is at least 1:2, while for CHD, a ratio of 1:1.3 or higher is recommended.

Participants who consumed more plant protein and overall protein saw greater risk reductions—28% lower for CVD and 36% for CHD. The findings suggest that replacing meat with plant sources, particularly nuts and legumes, can improve heart health and cardiometabolic risk factors.

A study reveals that maternal diet during pregnancy positively affects children’s IQ and brain structure. The research found that a better prenatal diet, especially in the first trimester, was linked to larger brain volume and improved cognitive outcomes, with stronger effects up to age 10. Children of mothers with healthier diets had higher IQs and stronger reasoning and vocabulary scores. However, by age 14, these effects weakened as the child’s own diet became more influential.

Image Credits: Pixabay

An anti-inflammatory diet can improve health Stress eating often involves foods that increase inflammation, which contributes to both physical and mental health issues. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, can reduce inflammation and support overall well-being. This approach, while not a quick fix, can offer long-term benefits for both physical and mental health.

Page. 27

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Fitness

Image Credits: Pixabay

Meta Quest 3 adds my top 2024 workout app to kickstart New Year fitness goals Quell, a top fitness app of 2024, will soon offer its gamified routines on Meta Quest headsets in January 2025. Shardfall, the app’s original fantasy adventure game, offers full-body workouts with resistance bands, and now it’s available as Shardfall: FitQuest VR for $19.99 / £14.99. While the VR version lacks resistance bands, it still provides an engaging boxing sim with full-body routines, including dodging and jogging sections. It’s a great option for those looking for a fun and effective way to start their 2025 fitness journey.

GoXPro Digital Challenges launch at Fitness First and Celebrity Fitness in Southeast Asia GoXPro’s Digitalised Challenges are now available at Fitness First and Celebrity Fitness across five Southeast Asian countries, enhancing engagement through gamified fitness challenges. These challenges allow members to compete in real time with progress tracked via leaderboards, offering multiple winner categories for inclusivity. The challenges have energized clubs, with a stronger sense of community and increased member motivation.

With wearable integration soon to be added, Evolution Wellness is keeping members engaged with innovative, seamless solutions that set the standard in fitness experiences.

Boost cardio with ankle weights Ankle weights add resistance to walking by engaging stabilizer and larger muscles, increasing workout intensity and burning more calories. Starting with short durations and weights under three pounds ensures safety and avoids altering gait.

Beyond walking, ankle weights can be used in strength training and Pilates for added muscle activation. While useful, they’re best complemented with other intensity-boosting techniques like speed intervals or a weighted vest for broader benefits.

Image Credits: Technavio

Image Credits: GOXPro

AI and the future of fitness AI is revolutionizing fitness with highly personalized workouts, offering deep customization through platforms like FitnessAI. Walsh envisions further advancements in AI, enhancing workout plans, nutrition, and recovery strategies.

AI will empower trainers rather than replace them, assisting in scaling their businesses and improving client progress tracking.

Privacy concerns remain, requiring transparency, user consent, and data security practices as AI’s role in fitness grows.

Image Credits: Pixabay Page. 28

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Women Health

Image Credits: Getty Images

Can mammograms detect heart disease risk?

Some mammography centers now use AI to detect breast arterial calcifications (BACs), a potential marker for cardiovascular risk. While BAC screening offers an opportunity to discuss heart health, its reliability as a predictor remains unclear, as many cardiovascular events occur without BAC presence.

Experts recommend further studies to confirm whether BAC detection improves outcomes.

Still, programs like those at the Lynn Women’s Health Institute offer BAC screening to encourage preventive care, providing a pathway for early discussions about cardiovascular risk and lifestyle changes.

Microbiome Influences on HIV Treatment and Prevention HIV treatment and prevention face challenges from microbiome interactions that affect drug metabolism and efficacy. ART has transformed HIV into a manageable condition, but microbiome-mediated drug metabolism in the gut and vaginal tracts contributes to subtherapeutic drug concentrations in critical tissues.

This leads to persistent viral reservoirs and immune activation.

Research links inflammatory bacterial communities, such as those influenced by bacterial vaginosis (BV), to increased HIV susceptibility and reduced PrEP efficacy, highlighting the importance of addressing microbiome-related factors in treatment strategies.

Microbial dysbiosis, driven by HIV and ART, exacerbates inflammation and complicates treatment.

While gut microbiome studies reveal inconsistencies due to confounders like sexual practices and ART regimens, inflammation-inducing bacteria are consistently linked to worse outcomes. Similarly, BV-associated microbes metabolize PrEP drugs, undermining their effectiveness for women. Tailoring interventions like probiotics and microbiome modulation offers potential to optimize ART and PrEP while reducing inflammation and improving outcomes for people living with HIV. Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Gray_s Compounding Pharmacy

Supporting Women’s Health Michelle Gray, owner of Gray’s Pharmacy, highlights the importance of addressing vaginal health, often affected by hormonal changes. Shifts in pH levels, particularly during peri-menopause or menopause, can lead to issues like UTIs and yeast infections.

Maintaining gut health through probiotics and diet, managing stress, and considering hormone therapy are simple yet effective ways to support vaginal health.

Addressing emotional eating in young women

Image Credits: Pixabay

Obesity in women, especially those in their 30s and 40s, is linked to cardiovascular issues, worsened by poor diet, hormonal changes, and stress. Sugary drinks and processed foods contribute to excessive calories, fat storage, and insulin resistance, increasing risks for heart disease and diabetes.

To combat obesity, women should focus on healthy eating, regular exercise, mindful eating, and stress management.

Page. 29

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Men Health

Image Credits: Pexels from Pixabay

Understanding How Men Grieve: A Different Path to Healing

Image Credits: Sophia Hsin_Stocksy

Plant-Based Protein Linked to Reduced Risk of Heart Disease, Study Finds Image Credits: Pixabay

Grief manifests differently in men and women, with men often internalizing their sorrow and experiencing physical symptoms like back pain. According to grief counselors Thomas Achenbach and Roland Kachler, men are more likely to resist their grief, particularly when they feel responsible for keeping the family together. They typically avoid group discussions, preferring less formal settings to open up about their loss.

Cardiovascular Risk and A Harvard study found that higher Dementia: A Gender Gap in consumption of plant-based protein significantly reduces heart diEarly Onset Redefining Strength: Emsease risk, with a 19% lower chanMen with high cardiovascular risk ce of cardiovascular disease (CVD) bracing Vulnerability and develop dementia about a decade and a 27% lower risk of coronary Challenging ‘Man Up’ Culearlier than women, according to heart disease (CHD). The 30-year ture a study in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.

The research analyzed 34,425 participants, using the Framingham Risk Score and neuroimaging to show that men aged 55–74 are more susceptible to dementia than women aged 65–74.

While the study doesn’t prove cardiovascular risks cause dementia, it emphasizes early intervention, especially before age 55. Addressing modifiable factors like obesity may help prevent neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer’s disease, and reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes.

study involving over 200,000 participants linked higher plant-to-animal protein ratios with better health outcomes, though no benefit was observed for stroke prevention.

Experts emphasized the feasibility of adopting a 1:2 plant-to-animal protein ratio to improve heart health. Simple changes, like replacing red meat with nuts or incorporating quinoa and chickpeas, can provide essential nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats while lowering risks of CVD and CHD.

A back injury forced me out of rugby and left me bedridden far from my family. I was used to pushing through pain and equated strength with enduring alone.

But as I struggled with everyday tasks, I learned to rely on others and found deeper connections through vulnerability. I realized strength isn’t about being self-sufficient, but accepting support.

Image Credits: 16days16films.com

Page. 30

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Page. 31

Find out how our minds and bodies are inextricably linked

Page. 32

Almanac & Aniversary

December 1st 1834 – The birth of Henri Becquerel, French physicist, who discovered radioactivity in 1896.

His discovery of spontaneous radiation from uranium salts laid the foundation for the work of Marie Curie and other scientists in nuclear physics.

1937 – The first successful kidney transplant was performed by Dr. Richard Lawler at the University of Chicago. This was the first step in a long journey toward the development of organ transplantation as a viable medical treatment.

1969 – The first successful Mars mission by NASA’s Mariner 6 launched. Mariner 6 provided important data about Mars’ atmosphere and surface features, furthering our understanding of the Red Planet.

1991 – The discovery of the first cloned mammal, Dolly the sheep, announced by researchers in Scotland. Dolly was cloned using somatic cell nuclear transfer, marking a breakthrough in the field of genetics and raising ethical questions about cloning and biotechnology.

December 2nd 1805 – The birth of Michael Faraday, English scientist renowned for his work in electromagnetism and electrochemistry. Faraday’s discoveries, including the electromagnetic induction principle, led to the development of technologies such as electric generators and transformers.

1891 – The first electric elevator was installed in a building in New York City. This development revolutionized architecture, allowing for taller buildings and significantly improving accessibility in urban environments.

1935 – The birth of the first suc-

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

cessful synthetic dye, mauveine, was created by William Henry Perkin, marking a major step in industrial chemistry. Perkin’s discovery of synthetic dyes led to the development of the modern chemical industry and revolutionized the textile industry.

1960 – The launch of the first weather satellite, TIROS-1, by NASA, revolutionized weather forecasting and contributed to the development of modern meteorology.

December 3rd 1857 – The birth of William Ramsay, British chemist, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1904 for discovering the noble gases, including neon, argon, krypton, and xenon.

Ramsay’s work helped expand the periodic table and deepen our understanding of the atomic structure.

1935 – The discovery of the first synthetic rubber by Bayer scientists in Germany. The invention of synthetic rubber played a crucial role in the development of the modern automobile and manufacturing industries.

1954 – The first successful polio vaccine was developed by Dr. Jonas Salk. His vaccine saved millions of lives and effectively helped eradicate polio in many parts of the world.

1972 – The launch of the Pioneer 10 spacecraft by NASA. Pioneer 10 became the first spacecraft to travel beyond the orbit of Pluto, and it continues its journey into interstellar space, marking a major milestone in space exploration.

fer. This achievement sparked ethical debates on cloning and genetic engineering.

December 4th 1833 – The birth of George Everest, British geographer and surveyor after whom Mount Everest was named. His contributions to the British survey of India led to the mapping and identification of the highest peak in the world.

1861 – The first successful use of chloroform as an anesthetic was performed by Dr. James Young Simpson in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Simpson’s discovery revolutionized surgery, allowing for painless procedures and significantly improving patient care.

1963 – The launch of Mariner 4

by NASA, the first spacecraft to send back images of Mars.

Mariner 4’s success paved the way for the exploration of Mars, providing crucial data about the Martian surface and atmosphere.

1975 – The first artificial human chromosome was constructed by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley. This milestone in genetics and biotechnology opened new possibilities in gene therapy and genetic engineering.

1991 – The discovery of the first cloned sheep, Dolly, was announced to the world. This experiment, performed by scientists at the Roslin Institute in Scotland, demonstrated that adult cells could be reprogrammed to create genetically identical organisms, sparking debates about cloning and biotechnology.

1999 – The first successful human cloning experiment was conducted by scientists at Advanced Cell Technology in the United States, using somatic cell nuclear transPage. 34

Advertisement

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

QATAR AIRWAYS Start planning your next trip Thinking of travelling somewhere soon?

Here are some options to help you get started.

Book now

Page. 40 Page. 39

Page. 35 38

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Gerontology & Life Extension

Image Credits: Pixabay

Revolutionizing Medicine: The Bio-Printed Human Heart Breakthrough

Image Credits: Freepik

Targeting Nup93 for Vascular Health in Aging A study in Aging by Julia Michalkiewicz, Tung D. Nguyen, and Monica Y. Lee highlights the role of Nucleoporin93 (Nup93) in maintaining blood vessel health during aging. The researchers suggest Nup93 as a potential therapeutic target for age-related conditions like heart disease and stroke, emphasizing its protective effect on endothelial cells.

The study also reveals that restoring Nup93 levels can reverse endothelial damage, potentially offering new treatments for vascular aging. The authors call for further research to explore how Nup93 levels decline with age and how restoring them could improve cardiovascular health.

In 2025, researchers achieved a groundbreaking feat by bio-printing a fully functional human heart using advanced 3D bioprinting. The process involved creating a detailed digital model based on CT scans, followed by precision printing with human stem cells and biodegradable materials. The heart matured in a bioreactor, mimicking human conditions, and was successfully transplanted into a pig for testing.

This innovation has major implications, addressing the organ shortage and reducing transplant rejection risks.

Advancing Longevity: Insights from the Founders Longevity Forum The Founders Longevity Forum in Singapore will bring together experts in clinical innovation, research, and investment to explore the growing longevity sector, with a focus on the Asia-Pacific region.

Key speaker David Gobel, cofounder and CEO of the Methuselah Foundation, will discuss strategies to extend healthy human lifespan and explore his foundation’s initiatives. Gobel’s work on biomarkers and longevity protocols, such as the Methuselah Protocol, aims to improve treatments and health outcomes.

Image Credits: Freepik

Biohacking for Longevity: A Journey into Aging Science Liam Rosen, a 37-year-old from New York, avoids alcohol and tracks his sleep with specialized technology. He follows a strict regimen of supplements like spermidine and nicotinamide mononucleotide in hopes of extending his lifespan.

Rosen attended a talk by David Sinclair, a geneticist at Harvard, who advocates for the idea of epigenetic changes controlling aging. While Rosen agrees with much of Sinclair’s ideas, he remains skeptical about some aspects, particularly Sinclair’s claims regarding longevity genes and their effectiveness.

Image Credits: longevity.technology

Page. 36

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Psychology

The psychology behind Elliott Waves

Personality Traits and Their Impact on Health Images Credits: Getty Images via forbes.

Navigating Career Paradoxes Success isn’t as simple as it seems. While we are often told that hard work guarantees rewards, in reality, pursuing career opportunities, managing egos, and seeking validation from others can complicate the journey. Understanding three paradoxes—Opportunity, Persuasion, and Effort—can help navigate this complexity.

Images Credits: Getty Images via forbes. com

The HEXACO model of personality encompasses six dimensions that influence health. A 2023 study in the European Journal of Personality explored how traits like Honesty-Humility, Emotionality, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, and Openness affect mental and physical health.

Elliott Wave International is offering 12 free gifts from December 1-12, providing resources on the Elliott Wave Principle. These gifts, usually paid, aim to help you understand market patterns and apply wave psychology to investment decisions.

This event is for those looking to rethink their investment approach using rational methods, not gut feelings. By the end of the 12 days, you’ll have gained valuable tools to confidently apply Elliott waves to your decisions.

The Opportunity Paradox shows that too many choices can hinder success, while the Persuasion Paradox suggests subtle influence is more powerful than loud displays.

The Effort Paradox emphasizes that tackling harder challenges enhances growth. Embracing these contradictions can lead to more effective career advancement.

Unlocking Calm: Simple Sensory Wellness Hacks

Images Credits: Elliott Wave International

Sensory wellness helps you reconnect with the world through your senses, reducing stress and promoting calmness. It’s free and easy to practice, from appreciating nature’s colours to enjoying a favorite scent or sound.

For instance, Conscientiousness is linked to better physical and mental health outcomes, promoting healthier behaviors, while Emotionality, though associated with stress, encourages cautious actions that prevent risky behaviors. Each trait impacts health differently, suggesting that understanding one’s personality can help improve overall well-being.

Images Credits: Pixabay

To make the most of this, take small moments each day to engage with your senses. Try savoring food, listening to calming sounds, or simply noticing details around you. These micro-escapes help restore balance and improve your well-being.

Page. 37

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Archeology

Possible Discovery of Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat Researchers from Turkey and the U.S. suggest they may have found Noah’s Ark on Mount Ararat. They discovered evidence of human activity near a boat-shaped formation, dating between 5500 and 3000 BC.

Images Credits: Supreme Council of Antiquities

Archaeologists Uncover Gateway to Ancient Greek Temple Alongside the Nile in Egypt Excavations at the Athribis site, 125 miles north of Luxor, have uncovered a 150-foot-wide sandstone temple pylon. This discovery, made by a joint Egyptian-German team, is a key milestone in ongoing digs at the Ptolemaic-era temple.

Hieroglyphic inscriptions inside the gate depict King Ptolemy VIII and the lion-headed goddess Repyt, while a hidden room has been found on the pylon’s second floor. The gate likely dates back to Ptolemy VIII’s reign and could rival the Luxor Temple pylon’s dimensions.

However, this finding does not prove the Biblical account. Archaeologists affirm the formation is natural, and there is no evidence of a global flood. A long-term joint study by ITU, Andrew University, and AICU is planned to continue exploring the site.

Ancient Footprints Reveal Hominin Coexistence Researchers discovered 1.5-million-year-old footprints on the shores of Lake Turkana in Kenya, providing the first evidence that Homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei coexisted. This rare find offers insight into how these species might have interacted in the same habitat. The footprints were preserved in soft mud, and their analysis revealed distinct differences in anatomy and movement.

Image Credits: Kevin Hatala_Chatham University

Image Credits: Noah_s Ark

Oldest Chinese Inscription Discovered in Jerusalem’s Mount Zion The oldest Chinese inscription ever found in Israel was uncovered in Jerusalem’s Mount Zion, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority. The 16th-century bowl fragment, bearing the inscription “Forever we will guard the eternal spring,” is the earliest evidence of exchange between China and the region.

Image Credits: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

Page. 38

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Space Exploration & Cosmology Satellites deployed to generate artificial eclipses in space Image Credits: ©Collaboration MPIK_H.E.S.S.

On December 5, 2024, two European satellites launched a mission to create artificial solar eclipses, revolutionizing solar research. The satellites will orbit Earth in formation, creating eclipses lasting up to six hours to study the sun’s corona and phenomena like coronal mass ejections. The mission, Proba-3, involves precise flying, with the satellites maintaining a 492-foot separation.

Advancing Neutron Superfluidity in Neutron Stars with Neural Networks Image Credits: Jane Kim, Ohio University

A study using artificial neural networks has advanced the understanding of neutron superfluidity in neutron stars, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. The research focused on low-density neutron matter, predicting quantum phenomena like Cooper pairing and superfluidity without assuming predefined interactions. By introducing “hidden” neutrons to mediate interactions, the model captures complex quantum correlations and naturally reveals Cooper pair formation. This approach provides insights into neutron star behavior, such as cooling, rotation, and glitches, while offering a simpler yet predictive model for nuclear interactions. The study suggests that these findings could enhance our ability to understand the quantum properties of neutron matter at a reduced computational cost.

Image Credits: Alones_Shutterstock.com

A guide to today’s space exploration technologies Space exploration is becoming more accessible thanks to innovations in reusable rockets, advanced propulsion, and life support technologies. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin have pioneered reusable rockets, reducing costs for missions like space tourism and interplanetary exploration. Advanced propulsion systems like ion engines and Nuclear Thermal Propulsion are enabling deeper space exploration, while sustainable habitats and resource utilization technologies are essential for long-term missions to the Moon and Mars.

Primordial black holes may be hidden in planets or everyday objects on Primordial black holes (PBHs) may exist as dark matter, and their presence could be confirmed through rare signatures such as hollow planetoids or microscopic tunnels left in materials like rocks and metal. The study, co-led by the University at Buffalo, suggests that PBHs trapped in rocky objects could leave them hollow, while faster-moving PBHs might leave behind straight tunnels, detectable in ancient materials.

Although the likelihood of detecting PBHs is small, the search is low-cost and could provide significant insights into dark matter.

Theoretical studies like this could challenge existing models, pointing to the need for a new framework in physics to solve longstanding mysteries.

Image Credits: NASA Page. 39

Curiosity

The Expansion of the Universe and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Let’s take a moment to imagine this: you’re floating in a tiny bubble, and the bubble is getting bigger and bigger. You look around, and every object inside that bubble is moving farther apart.

That’s basically what’s happening to our universe right now. It’s expanding, and not just a little—it’s stretching out at an ever-increasing pace, like a cosmic balloon that’s been inflated since the Big Bang some 13.8 billion years ago.

You might wonder, if everything is moving apart, does that mean we’re getting farther away from everything, too? The answer is yes and no. We’re all getting farther away from each other, but the space between everything in the universe is what’s stretching. So, while Earth is still nicely sitting in its orbit around the Sun (thankfully), galaxies, clusters of stars, and all the other distant celestial objects are speeding away from us as the fabric of space-time itself expands. This cosmic expansion is something we’ve known about for nearly a century now, but it’s still one of the most awe-inspiring, mind-bending, and perplexing phenomena in the

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

universe.

The Hubble Law and How We Figured It Out In 1929, astronomer Edwin Hubble made a groundbreaking discovery that forever changed how we look at the cosmos. He found that galaxies, the vast collections of stars and gas that make up the universe, are moving away from us. The farther away a galaxy is, the faster it’s receding. This relationship is called the Hubble Law, and it’s one of the most compelling pieces of evidence that the universe is expanding. It’s like if you were to sprinkle some raisins into a rising loaf of dough: as the dough expands, the raisins move farther and farther apart.

But here’s where it gets weird: space itself is stretching, not the objects within it. Galaxies are not flying through space like spaceships—they are being carried apart as space expands. This means that no galaxy, not even our Milky Way, is the “center” of the universe. Everywhere you look, you’ll see galaxies moving away from you, and you’d observe the same thing from any other galaxy in the universe. It’s as if we’re all in the same cosmic boat, and space itself is pulling the oars.

The Accelerating Universe: It’s Getting Faster, Not Slower!

Now, here’s where things

get even more interesting. You might think that gravity, the force that pulls everything together, should slow down the expansion of the universe over time.

But—plot twist!—the universe isn’t just expanding at a steady pace; it’s expanding faster and faster. In 1998, astronomers discovered that the rate of expansion of the universe is accelerating.

The cause of this mysterious speeding up is a force called dark energy—a theoretical energy that makes up about 68% of the universe. We don’t know exactly what dark energy is, but we do know that it’s making the universe grow faster every day.

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI): Are We Alone?

Now, while the universe keeps getting bigger, there’s one question that humanity has been asking since we first looked up at the stars: Are we alone? The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, or SETI, is the scientific effort to answer that question.

SETI’s goal is simple yet profound: to find signals or signs of intelligent life beyond Earth. After all, with billions of stars and potentially even more planets in our galaxy alone, the odds are pretty high that we’re not the only ones out here, right?

How SETI Works: Listening for a Cosmic “Hello”

SETI has been around since the 1960s, and it’s mainly about listening.

Really, really carefully.

The idea is to use large radio telescopes to listen for radio signals or other forms of communication that might be sent out by alien civilizations. So, how exactly does this work? When a technologically advanced alien civilization sends a signal, it would likely broadcast it through space in the form of electromagnetic waves, including radio waves. These waves travel at the speed of light and could potentially be detected on Earth if they were powerful enough.

To search for these signals, SETI researchers use some of the largest radio telescopes in the world, like the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico (until its unfortunate collapse in 2020) or the Allen Telescope Array in California. These radio telescopes are like giant cosmic ears, scanning the heavens for any unusual patterns in the cosmic static. And here’s the catch: SETI scientists aren’t looking for just any random noise—they’re looking for non-random, structured signals. The kind of signals that would suggest intelligence behind them. Imagine you’re tuning a radio dial, and suddenly, you hear a perfectly clear signal from a station that’s not on any known frequency. That’s the type of signal SETI scientists hope to detect.

The Search for Life Page. 40

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Beyond Our Solar System So far, SETI has not found any definitive proof of extraterrestrial intelligence. But that doesn’t mean we’ve been listening in vain. As technology improves, so does our ability to detect weaker and more distant signals.

What’s more, with the discovery of thousands of exoplanets (planets outside our solar system) in the habitable zone (the region around a star where conditions might be right for life), the possibility that intelligent life exists somewhere in the universe is looking more and more plausible.

In fact, SETI’s efforts are not just about detecting

signals from aliens but also about mapping out habitable zones in the galaxy—places where conditions could support life. With new discoveries like the detection of Earth-like exoplanets, the search for extraterrestrial life has never been more exciting. Scientists believe that there are likely billions of potentially habitable planets in our galaxy alone, and the odds of finding something out there are getting better by the day.

The Drake Equation: How Many Alien Civilizations Are Out There?

One of the most famous mathematical tools used in SETI research is the Drake Equation, developed by astronomer Frank Drake in 1961. The equation is designed to estimate the number of technologically advanced civilizations in our galaxy. It takes into account factors like the number of stars in the galaxy, the fraction of those stars that have planets, and the likelihood that those planets might develop intelligent life.

While the Drake Equation gives us a framework for thinking about the number of alien civilizations out there, it’s far from a precise science. The variables in the equation are filled with uncertainty, and we have little to go on beyond educated guesses. Still, the equation serves as a starting point in understanding just how many advanced

civilizations might exist in our galaxy.

The Fermi Paradox: Where Are They?

If the universe is so vast and the odds of intelligent life so high, why haven’t we found any signs of aliens yet? This conundrum is known as the Fermi Paradox. It was first posed by physicist Enrico Fermi, who famously asked, “Where is everybody?” The paradox points out the contradiction between the high probability of extraterrestrial civilizations and the lack of evidence or contact with them.

There are many potential answers to this paradox.

Maybe advanced civilizations are too far away for us to detect. Maybe they’re intentionally hiding from us (which is a bit unsettling). Or maybe intelligent life is so rare that we’re truly alone in the galaxy. Whatever the answer, the Fermi Paradox remains one of the greatest unanswered questions in SETI. Are We Alone?

Ultimately, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence is more than just a hunt for aliens—it’s a quest to understand our place in the cosmos. If we do find evidence of intelligent life out there, it would be one of the most profound discoveries in human history.

But even if we don’t, the search itself teaches us a great deal about who we

are, what makes a civilization “advanced,” and how we might one day find a way to communicate across the vastness of space.

Why Should We Care About SETI? Whether you’re a believer in extraterrestrial life or not, the search for intelligent life beyond Earth pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. It challenges us to think about the universe in ways we never have before and opens up possibilities for what could lie out there—waiting for us to find it. Plus, it’s one heck of a conversation starter at parties.

In the end, SETI isn’t just about finding aliens; it’s about understanding the fundamental nature of life, intelligence, and existence. The expansion of the universe is a reminder that there’s so much more out there than we can possibly comprehend, and maybe, just maybe, we’re not in this cosmic journey alone.

So, keep your curiosity alive, keep looking to the stars, and who knows— perhaps the next big discovery in science will come from an unexpected message across the cosmos. Keep listening, because you never know when you might hear that cosmic “hello.”

Page. 41

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Advertisement

Tickets

Credits: Wsupercars

Page. 42

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Engineering, Robotics & IT

Shape Shifting Xenon Nuclei in LHC Collisions

Revolutionizing AI Communication: KIT’s ATHENS Project

A team led by You Zhou from the Niels Bohr Institute and Huichao Song from Peking University simulated xenon-129 (129Xe) collisions at the LHC. Their findings suggest that xenon nuclei change shape from soft, oval particles to rigid, spherical ones in extreme conditions, a process called nuclear shape phase transition.

These simulations may lead to the first experimental observations of such transitions. The research could enhance our understanding of nuclear properties and quantum chromodynamics (QCD) under extreme conditions. The team hopes future experiments will confirm these shape transitions and expand studies to other nuclei, improving knowledge of nuclear structure at ultra-short timescales.

The ATHENS project at KIT aims to enhance optical transceivers for AI by using innovative material combinations to boost performance and reduce energy use.

Led by Professors Christian Koos and Stefan Bräse, it is funded by a €14 million ERC Synergy Grant and will explore new solutions for high-speed data transmission, addressing challenges posed by growing data volumes and AI demands. The project combines silicon with organic materials and other advanced technologies, aiming to improve efficiency in optical communication. It will also contribute to the development of quantum technology and medical engineering applications. The research strengthens KIT’s leadership in photonics, with further advancements expected with the opening of the Karlsruhe Center for Optics and Photonics (KCOP).

Image Credits: You Zhou, NBI

Breakthrough in Microrobotics: The Smallest Walking Robot Cornell researchers have developed the smallest walking robot to date, capable of moving and interacting with visible light at microscopic scales. These robots, ranging from 5 to 2 microns, are controlled by magnetic fields and can perform tasks such as imaging and force measurement.

By integrating diffractive optics with microrobotics, the team has created a platform that can measure forces and conduct super-resolution imaging, with potential applications in DNA research and clinical settings. This breakthrough marks a new era in microscopic robotic and optical engineering.

Image Credits: GoogleWang

Advancing Quantum Robotics: Potential and Challenges Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Freepik

Researchers are exploring quantum robotics, which merges quantum computing with AI to improve robotic systems. By leveraging quantum principles such as superposition and entanglement, quantum robots can solve problems like data processing and real-time responsiveness.

However, challenges such as hardware immaturity and quantum-classical integration must be overcome before these robots reach their full potential.

The field holds promise for transforming industries such as manufacturing and healthcare, enabling robots to perform tasks more efficiently.

Page. 43

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Parenting & Relationship

Parenting a strong-willed child can be quite the trip

Boomers vs. Gentle ParenStrong-willed children are indeting: Key Differences and pendent, persistent, and deterBenefits mined, often preferring to make Baby boomers, now between 60 and 78, raised children with a much stricter parenting style than today’s gentle or authoritative approaches. Boomers often saw their role as enforcers of strict rules and consequences, in contrast to the warmth and understanding that modern parents strive for.

This has led to disagreements with the benefits of soft parenting, which focuses on emotional awareness, imagination, and encouraging mistakes for growth.

their own choices. While these traits can be valuable in adulthood, they can also come across as stubborn or oppositional. Dr. Molly Burrets and other psychologists note that such individuals tend to develop leadership qualities, strong communication skills, and a deep sense of fairness.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Holiday Struggle Many grandparents in Massachusetts are primary caregivers for their grandchildren, often stepping into the role unexpectedly due to circumstances like illness, addiction, or death. These caregivers face significant challenges, including financial strain, and the holidays can be particularly difficult.

Image Credits: The Boston Globe

Guiding Through Lighthouse Parenting Lighthouse parenting offers a balanced approach where parents provide love and support while maintaining boundaries. It combines aspects of helicopter and free-range parenting, creating a safe environment for children to grow and explore. Key strategies include setting clear rules, praising effort over outcomes, avoiding mixed signals, and normalizing failure.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Page. 44

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Investiments & Finanace

Top Fintech Founders to Wall Street Dealmakers

AI in diagnostics market to reach USD 8.54 Bn by 2033

Spade, a startup co-founded by Oban MacTavish, Cooper Hart, and Tess Bloch, provides banks with detailed merchant data, crucial for tackling credit card fraud. The company processes over $1 billion in monthly transactions and has raised $16 million in funding.

Several 2025 30 Under 30 honorees are fintech innovators.

The global AI in diagnostics market, valued at USD 1.61 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to USD 8.54 billion by 2033. North America leads the market, with the U.S. expected to see significant growth. The rising demand for AI-enhanced diagnostic tools is fueling the market, with innovations in medical imaging, predictive analytics, and telemedicine integration.

Among them are Mukund Tibrewala of Salient, Anthony Zhang of Vinovest, Shayne Coplan of Polymarket, Cindy Leow of Drift, and David Fershteyn and Evelyn Duan in traditional finance.

Image Credits: biospace.com

Image Credits: forbes.com

Images Credits: ir.aboutamazon.com

Amazon Unveils AI Supercomputer to Rival Nvidia Amazon Web Services (AWS) has unveiled Project Rainier, a new AI supercomputer built with its Trainium chips, aiming to challenge Nvidia’s dominance in AI computing. The supercomputer, set for completion in 2025, is designed to meet the growing demand for powerful AI model training, and AWS plans to offer customers an alternative to Nvidia’s GPUs. The announcement saw Amazon’s stock rise by more than 1%.

AWS has been investing heavily in AI infrastructure, with over $100 billion allocated for the next decade. The company is also working on other projects, such as Project Ceiba with Nvidia, and plans to release an advanced Ultraserver that uses Trainium chips for AI training. AWS’s efforts position it as a strong competitor to other AI giants, including OpenAI.

FinCEN issues alert on AI deepfake dangers

https://bit.ly/3A94M9w

On November 13, 2024, FinCEN issued an alert warning financial institutions about fraud schemes using deepfake media created by generative AI. These deepfakes, which mimic real media, have been increasingly used in fraudulent activities, including creating fake identification and scamming consumers. FinCEN identified red flags such as inconsistent photos, mismatched identity documents, and suspicious transaction patterns to help prevent fraud.

Images Credits: Pixabay

Page. 45

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Retirement

Is New Jersey the ideal place for your retirement?

Retirement planning is essential, whether you’re starting your career or nearing retirement age. It’s too late to start preparing at 50, and careful planning is crucial to enjoy your golden years in comfort and security.

RightLivin’s article on retirement states highlights New Jersey as a popular but expensive retirement destination. While the state offers a variety of amenities and proximity to New York City, the high cost of living and healthcare may pose challenges for retirees.

Image Credits: Coombesy from Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Jennifer Roberts_The Globe and Mail

A former banker overcame retirement shock, and an executive returned to work after a near-death experience Mike Drak retired at 59 after being packaged out by his employer.

Initially enjoying his downtime, he soon faced depression, realizing his work had fulfilled his needs for identity, purpose, and achievement. To help others, he wrote books and offers workshops on the non-financial aspects of retirement. Luke, 58, and Nora, 52, are planning their retirement with significant savings, but 64% of their portfolio is in cash.

The new retirement age begins January 1, 2025

Scientists may have unlocked the secret to living to 100 in centenarian stem cells Researchers studying stem cells from centenarians suggest that longevity may be linked to how stem cells regenerate. By reprogramming blood cells from centenarians into pluripotent stem cells, scientists aim to understand the genetic factors behind aging.

Early results show improved protein management in centenarian-derived neurons, with promising insights into Alzheimer’s protection.

Researchers are also establishing a cell bank to share centenarian-derived cells, which could advance studies on aging.

Image Credits: Alisa Dyson from Pixabay

Starting in 2025, the full retirement age will rise to 66 years and 10 months for those born in 1959, and to 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later. Early retirement at 62 reduces benefits by 30%. A 2.5% COLA increase in 2024 will also raise the Social Security credit and wage cap.

The SSA calculates reductions for early retirement: 0.55% for each month within the first 36 months and 0.42% for additional months.

Page. 46

Advertisement

TWIS 01-07 03-09 DEC NOV24 24

Advertisement

TWIS TWIS 01-07 03-09NOV 10-16 DEC NOV24 24

Empowering Minds with Cutting-Edge Knowledge: Bridging Science and Technology for a Smarter Tomorrow

Click on the link below to join our Whatsapp Community! https://chat.whatsapp.com/Igruy8FOHkdBAKIyV4Svot

Empowering Minds with Cutting-Edge Knowledge: Bridging Science and Technology for a Smarter Tomorrow Get in touch and subscribe! https://scitke.com https://www.instagram.com/sci_tke/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/scitke-llc?trk=organization_guest_main-feed-card_ feed-actor-name

Click on the link below to join our Whatsapp Community! https://chat.whatsapp.com/ Igruy8FOHkdBAKIyV4Svot Page. 48

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

Film

A man meets a clone of himself and stumbles into a grand conspiracy about clones taking over the world.

Watch Here

EMPLOYMENT, CONFERENCES & WEBNARS

Conferences & Webnars

Jobs

Computational Interactions between Algebra, Combinatorics, and Discrete Geometry

Elon Musk seeks people from anywhere in the World to Work from home: Payroll of $270,000 annually

Algebraic and Analytic Methods in Combinatorics What is Particle Theory?

Generalized Symmetries in Quantum Field Theory: High Energy Physics, Condensed Matter, and Quantum Gravity

Why Wait? – Apply

Page. 49

TWIS 01-07 DEC 24

BOOKS

Explore the most intriguing, far-reaching, and pressing concerns in popular science today!

From &;What is consciousness?&; to &;Can we beat bacteria?,&; The Big Questions in Science translates complicated concepts into understandable language. Anyone who has every wondered who we are, why we are here, and what &;here&; actually is, can gain insight into issues such as what makes us human, whether there are other universes, what’s at the bottom of a black hole, and how we can get more energy from the sun. All the questions urgently require practical answers and speak to our sense of wonder and desire to know more.

Buy now

Recommendations Videos

Extra Reading

How do Graphics Cards Work? Exploring GPU Architecture

Quantum computer-powered robots could soon match humans, scientists predict

What Happens When AI Knows TOO MUCH? | Reverse Turing Test w/ Albert Einstein and Nikola Tesla What is Time? Stephen Wolfram’s Groundbreaking New Theory

Study confirms a 40-year-old quantum theory

YUVAL NOAH HARARI: Our AI Future Is WAY WORSE Than You Think | Rich Roll Podcast

Page. 50

TWIS SCIENCE THIS WEEK IN

TECHNICAL DATA Technical Data Sheet Property: SCITKE LLC Telephone: +244 957906038

Chef Graphic Designer: Salomão André

Writing Contributors:

Assistant Designers: Leandro Conceição, Valeriano Ndeyi

Eduardo Paulo, Valeriano Ndeyi, Cumbo Sumbo, Leandro Conceição, Ana Kiesse, Ana Manuel, Evelina Jeremias, Ngoma Manuel

Content Manager: Jorge Paka

Periodicity: Weekly

General Inquery: info@scitke.com Business Inquery: business@scitke.com Chief Editor: Marcílio M. dos Santos

Scitke LLC, 112 Capitol Trail, Suite A303, Newcastle, US DE 19711