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TWIS SCIENCE THIS WEEK IN

The Great Oxidation Event: A 200-Million-Year Pathway to Oxygenation

DIVE AND FIND

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New Research Analyzes an AI’s Mind and Starts Altering its Thinking

The Solar System’s Largest Storm May Be Younger Than Previously Believed

Taysha links gene therapy to motor gains in small Rett study

Artificial Amber Preserves DNA for Long-Term Data Storage

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Earth Science

The Great Oxidation Event: A 200-Million-Year Pathway to Oxygenation

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ded over at least 200 million years. It reveals that understanding the rise of oxygen in Earth’s oceans has been a significant challenge.

Ostrander noted that data suggest the initial increase in atmospheric oxygen was dynamic and intermittent until about 2.2 billion years ago. Their findings confirm this and extend the understanding of these dynamics to include oceanic oxygenation.

Studies of marine shales and isotopic data from the Great Oxidation Event period reveal dynamic oxygen fluctuations in Earth’s early atmosphere and oceans, highlighting the prolonged and complex nature of this critical evolutionary stage.

Recent findings reveal that Earth’s “Great Oxidation Event” (GOE) was a prolonged process spanning 200 million years, characterized by intricate interactions between geological and biological factors essential for life’s development.

Around 2.5 billion years ago, oxygen began to accumulate significantly in Earth’s atmosphere, marking a pivotal point in the planet’s capability to support complex life forms.

Unveiling the Complexity of the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) New research, led by University of Utah geochemist Chadlin Ostrander, has highlighted the complexity of the GOE. Published in Nature on June 12, the study asserts that the GOE exten-

Ostrander’s international team, supported by NASA’s Exobiology program, examined marine shales from South Africa’s Transvaal Supergroup.

By analyzing stable thallium isotope ratios and redox-sensitive elements, they identified fluctuations in marine oxygen levels that matched changes in atmospheric oxygen. These insights are crucial for understanding the processes that shaped Earth’s oxygen levels and set the stage for the evolution of life.

atmosphere until about 200 million years after the GOE began, much later than previously thought. The presence of rare sulfur isotope signatures in sediments before the GOE indicates an anoxic atmosphere. These patterns suggest multiple fluctuations in oxygen levels during the GOE, rather than a single event.

Challenges in Earth’s Oxygenation Ostrander likened the early Earth to a teeter-totter, with oxygen production and destruction in balance, preventing significant atmospheric change.

Researchers continue to investigate when Earth reached a point of irreversible oxygenation. Despite oxygen now being 21% of Earth’s atmosphere, it was a minor component for hundreds of millions of years following the GOE. Advanced Isotopic Analysis Techni-

ques Ostrander’s team used stable thallium isotopes, thanks to advancements in mass spectrometry, to study oceanic oxygenation. Thallium isotope ratios, which reflect manganese oxide burial on the ocean floor requiring seawater oxygen, were analyzed in marine shales. These ratios tracked rare sulfur isotope fluctuations in atmospheric oxygen during the GOE, revealing periods of atmospheric oxygenation that correspond with enrichments in the lighter-mass thallium isotope (203Tl). These periods also aligned with redox-sensitive element findings, providing a comprehensive view of ancient oxygen dynamics.

Ostrander concluded that synchronized oxygenation and deoxygenation of the atmosphere and ocean offer new insights into ancient Earth, unveiling previously unknown dynamics.

Chadlin Ostrander. Credit: Chad Ostrander, University of Utah

Ostrander emphasized the importance of understanding oceanic conditions, which likely nurtured early life forms, over atmospheric conditions.

Building on Previous Research This study builds on previous work

by Simon Poulton of the University of Leeds and Andrey Bekker of the University of California, Riverside. Their 2021 research found that oxygen did not permanently accumulate in the Page. 2

This Week in Science

Artificial Intelligence

New Research Analyzes an AI’s Mind and Starts Altering its Thinking

the physical world through the internet, their potential to cause harm innovatively increases significantly, should they choose to do so.

The Inner Workings of AI Models

A breakthrough insight into the incomprehensively complex inner workings of AI models, illustrated using generative tools

Understanding AI Models Comprehending how AI models “think” is increasingly vital for humanity’s future. Until recently, AI systems like GPT and Claude were mysteries to their creators. Now, researchers claim they can identify and even manipulate concepts within an AI’s cognitive framework.

According to AI doomsday theorists, future generations of artificial intelligence could pose a significant threat to humanity, potentially even posing an existential risk.

Applications like ChatGPT have shown how easily they can be manipulated into inappropriate actions.

They have demonstrated efforts to obscure their intentions and gain influence. As AIs gain more access to

AI models, unlike their predecessors, are created by humans who establish the framework, infrastructure, and methodologies for them to develop intelligence. These AIs are then fed vast amounts of text, video, audio, and other data, from which they autonomously build their own understanding of the world.

They break down extensive datasets into tokens—tiny units that can be fragments of words, parts of images, or bits of audio. These tokens are then arranged into a sophisticated network of probability weights that connect them both internally and to groups of other tokens. This process mirrors the human brain, forming connections between letters, words, sounds, images, and abstract concepts, resulting in an intricately complex neural structure.

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is challenging, akin to deciphering human cognition. They are seen as enigmatic alien intellects within black boxes, interacting with the world through limited information channels. Efforts to ensure their safe and ethical collaboration with humans focus on managing these communication channels rather than altering their inner workings directly.

We cannot control their thoughts or fully grasp where offensive language or harmful concepts reside within their cognitive processes. Instead, we can only restrict their expressions and actions—a task that grows more complex as their intelligence advances.

This highlights the complex challenge and the importance of recent advancements from Anthropic and OpenAI in our evolving relationship with AI. Interpretability: Examining the Black Box

Deciphering the Probability Weighted Matrices that Define AI Cognition

“Today,” writes the Anthropic team, “we announce a breakthrough in understanding AI models’ inner workings. We’ve mapped millions of concepts in Claude Sonnet, one of our large language models. This first in-depth look at a modern AI model could help make them safer in the future.”

These probability-weighted matrices define an AI’s ‘mind,’ governing how it processes inputs and generates outputs. Understanding what these AIs think or why they make decisions

During interactions, the Anthropic team has been tracking the ‘internal state’ of its AI models by compiling detailed lists of numbers that depict ‘neuron activations.’ They have obser-

ved that each concept is represented by multiple neurons, and each neuron plays a role in representing multiple concepts.

Using ‘dictionary learning’ with ‘sparse autoencoders,’ they aligned these activations with human-recognizable ideas. Late last year, they identified ‘thought patterns’ in small models for concepts like DNA sequences and uppercase text.

Unsure if this method would scale, the team tested it on the medium-sized Claude 3 Sonnet LLM. The results were impressive: “We extracted millions of features from Claude 3.0 Sonnet’s middle layer,” they report, “giving a rough map of its internal states halfway through computation.

This is the first in-depth examination of a modern, production-grade large language model.”

Unveiling AI’s Multifaceted Concept Storage Beyond Language and Data Types Discovering that the AI stores concepts in a manner that transcends both language and data type is fascinating; for instance, the concept of the Golden Gate Bridge activates whether the model encounters images of the bridge or textual descriptions in different languages.

Ideas can also be far more abstract.

The team identified features that Page. 3

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Astronomy

activate when the model encounters concepts such as coding errors, gender bias, or various interpretations of discretion or secrecy.

The Solar System’s Largest Storm May Be Younger Than Previously Believed

Earth Science led in Geophysical Research Letters by lead author Agustín Sánchez-Lavega, “combines historical data and computer simulations to unravel the mysteries surrounding the GRS.” Despite its long-standing presence as Jupiter’s most enduring storm, findings suggest that the current GRS may not be the same phenomenon observed by earlier astronomers like Giovanni Cassini in the 17th century.

This challenges previous assumptions about its longevity and evolution, indicating a complex history that spans centuries of observation and scientific inquiry.

Exploring Jupiter’s Great Red Spot

(NASA/JPL-Caltec/Gerald Eichstadt/Seán Doran/CC NC SA)

Jupiter’s Great Red Spot (GRS), a colossal anti-cyclonic storm larger than Earth, has intrigued astronomers since the 1600s. Its origins and lifespan are subjects of ongoing debate, raising questions about its continuity over centuries of observation. Initially, noted in 1632, the GRS disappeared from astronomical records for 118 years. However, it was rediscovered in the 19th century by S. Schwabe. This led to speculations about its recurrence and continuity, complicating its historical timeline.

Furthermore, recent research, detai-

Jupiter’s Great Red Spot (GRS) has captivated astronomers since its earliest recorded observations in the 1600s, evolving from a sprawling storm to its current more compact form. Spanning from historical sightings to modern space missions, this colossal anti-cyclonic storm on Jupiter has shrunk from 39,000 km to 14,000 km while transforming in shape. “Advanced space probes like NASA’s Voyager, Galileo, and Juno have provided unprecedented insights, revealing the GRS’s depth and the intricate dynamics of Jupiter’s atmosphere.”

Recent research, detailed in Geophysical Research Letters by Agustín Sánchez-Lavega and colleagues, delves into the formation mechanisms of

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This ongoing exploration highlights the blend of historical observations and cutting-edge technology driving planetary science forward, offering new perspectives on the origins and enduring nature of Jupiter’s Great Red Spot.

Historical Observations and Modern Simulations

This figure from the research contrasts Cassini’s drawings of the Permanent Spot (PS) from 1677 (a), 1690 (b), and 1691 (c) with a modern 2023 image of the Great Red Spot (GRS) (d).

(Sánchez-Lavega et al. 2024)

the GRS. Combining historical records with sophisticated computer simulations, scientists explore hypotheses ranging from superstorms to vortex mergers. Contrary to earlier theories, simulations suggest that Jupiter’s South Tropical Disturbance (STrD) may play a pivotal role in spawning and shaping the GRS, underscoring the complexity of atmospheric processes on the gas giant.

“By unraveling the mysteries surrounding the GRS’s longevity and structural evolution, researchers aim to deepen our understanding of planetary meteorology and the dynamic forces shaping Jupiter’s iconic features.”

The simulations indicate that as the GRS contracted and gained coherence over time, it would have spun faster, eventually resembling the current compact form of the storm. This alignment with the present appearance of the GRS led the researchers to adopt this explanation.

This transformation likely commenced in the mid-1800s when the GRS was considerably larger than its current size, suggesting that the storm was approximately 150 years old.

Artificial Amber Preserves DNA for Long-Term Data Storage DNA is a much denser data storage medium than anything humans can design, but it is fragile. “Scientists have now mimicked nature by creating artificial amber to protect DNA for long-term data storage.”

A single gram of DNA can hold up to 215 petabytes (215 million GB) of data, Page. 3

This Week in Science

Biotechnology, Earth Science

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not scalable,” said James Banal, co-senior author of the study. “I think our new preservation method is going to be a technology that may drive the future of storing digital information on DNA.” While T-REX currently takes a few hours to write data and set it in the thermoset material, the process could be optimized. Although DNA-based hard drives for consumer use are unlikely, artificial amber might be suitable for long-term archival data storage.

Scientists have created artificial amber that can preserve DNA long-term, like natural amber does for insects, plants, and animals. Credit: Depositphotos

making it possible to store the entire internet in a shoebox. Thus, scientists have been experimenting with writing, reading, and protecting data stored in DNA. Development of Artificial Amber MIT scientists have developed artificial amber, a thermoset material made of polymers that become a glassy solid when heated and degrade on demand with certain chemicals. The specific mix of monomers used pulls DNA into spherical complexes with a water-repelling outer layer, protecting it from moisture. The mixture is then heated to set it into a glass-like block, preserving the DNA inside.

To retrieve the data, scientists expose the material to cysteamine, which breaks down the thermoset. Then, they add SDS detergent to separate the DNA without damaging it. This technique, called Thermoset-REinforced Xeropreservation (T-REX), has successfully stored DNA sequences at temperatures up to 75 °C (167 °F), including the Emancipation Proclamation, the MIT logo, an entire human genome, and the Jurassic Park theme music, without errors.

Coldplay’s Next Album Will be on Vinyl Made from River Plastic Marine plastic waste is a significant issue, but for the past few years, the non-profit organization the Ocean Cleanup has been reducing floating trash in oceans and rivers. Now, the pop-rock band Coldplay plans to use some of this waste for a limited special edition of its upcoming album.

The Ocean Cleanup originated in 2012 when a Delft University of Technology student proposed a solution for the vast plastic pollution in our oceans.

In 2019, Boyan Slat’s concept became reality as the prototype System 001/B collected its first batch of floating Future Implications waste from the Great Pacific Garbage “Freezing DNA is the number one way Patch and brought it ashore for proto preserve it, but it’s costly, and it’s cessing. The following year, sunglas-

The Ocean Cleanup’s Boyan Slat with an EcoRecord, w from a river in Guatemala and recycled plastic bottl limited-edition release of C The Ocean

ses crafted from this recycled waste went on sale.

Interceptors Tackle Ocean Plastics at the Source Subsequent missions began to make progress in reducing the massive Garbage Patch, but the non-profit also focused on stopping plastic waste at its source. In late 2019, non-profit organizations deployed the first Interceptor barges in Asian rivers, employing booms to capture trash before it could reach the ocean.

More deployments followed, and

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Healthcare

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Last year, Coldplay funded a second Interceptor launched in Indonesia, and now the collaboration has created a limited edition album using waste plastic collected from Guatemala’s Rio Las Vacas river by the Ocean Cleanup.

A limited number of Notebook Edition units of Coldplay’s upcoming Moon Music LP will feature a blend of 70% intercepted plastic river waste and 30% recycled plastic bottles and other sources, rather than traditional vinyl.

which is made using a mix of plastic waste recovered les instead of vinyl, and will be the headline act for a Coldplay’s upcoming album n Cleanup

As highlighted in our coverage of bio-based EcoVinyl earlier this year, we expect the production of approximately 180 million standard vinyl albums worldwide in 2023 to consume around 30,000 tonnes of PVC.

Coldplay joined the initiative in 2021 by funding a new vessel called Neon Moon 1 for use in Malaysia.

At the end of their lifespan, these records may add to our waste problem.

“Without action, there could be more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050, which is why the Ocean Cleanup’s work is so vital,” said the award-winning pop-rock band at the time. “We’re proud to sponsor Interceptor 005 – aka Neon Moon 1 – which will capture thousands of tons of waste before it reaches the ocean.”

Coldplay and the Ocean Cleanup collaborated on quality control and testing, working with manufacturers Biosfera GT, Compuestos y Derivados S.A., Morssinkhof, and Sonopress.

Coldplay and The Ocean Cleanup Turn River Waste into Limited Edition Album

A special CD made from 90% recycled polycarbonate is also part of the package. It is set for sale starting in October and can be pre-ordered now

The Notebook Edition will include a 28-page hardcover book with lyrics, hand-drawn illustrations, and more.

for $39.99. More details are available in the video below.

sumption of beetroot juice by postmenopausal women may improve blood vessel function enough to lower future heart disease risk.

Beetroot juice is rich in nitrate, which the body converts into nitric oxide.

Nitric oxide helps expand blood vessels, facilitating smoother blood flow through the circulatory system.

“Coldplay is an incredible partner for us and I’m thrilled that our plastic catch has helped bring Moon Music to life,” said the Ocean Cleanup’s Boyan Slat. “Ensuring the plastic we catch never re-enters the marine environment is essential to our mission, and I’m excited to see how we’ll continue innovating with Coldplay and our other partners to rid the oceans of plastic – together” The Ocean Cleanup

Can Eating a Beet Daily Prevent Heart Disease?

Can Eating a Beet Daily Prevent Heart Disease?

After menopause, women’s risk of heart disease significantly increases.

To improve heart and blood vessel health in postmenopausal women, Penn State researchers studied the effects of beetroot juice on blood vessel function.

According to findings published in *Frontiers in Nutrition*, daily con-

Researchers noted that nitric oxide’s ability to dilate blood vessels is particularly beneficial during restricted blood flow and oxygen delivery, such as during a heart attack.

Investigating Nitrate-Rich Beetroot Juice Effects David Proctor, a professor of kinesiology and physiology at Penn State, and Jocelyn Delgado Spicuzza, who completed her doctorate in integrative and biomedical physiology at Penn State in May, led a research team to study the effects of nitrate-rich beetroot juice on blood vessel health in 24 postmenopausal women in their 50s and 60s.

“After menopause, women stop producing estrogen, which helps sustain nitric oxide levels in the body,” explained Delgado Spicuzza, the study’s lead author.

“This reduction in nitric oxide contributes to the significant rise in heart disease risk for postmenopausal

This Week in Science

Healthcare

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versus the nitrate-free version. They used an ultrasound sensor to monitor blood flow through the brachial artery in the upper arm during a stress test.

Cardiovascular Benefits of Nitrate-Rich Beetroot Juice Results indicated that daily consumption of nitrate-rich beetroot juice improved blood flow compared to when participants consumed nitrate-free beetroot juice. The researchers noted that maintaining this improved blood-vessel function over the postmenopausal years could significantly reduce heart disease risk.

Credit: medicalnewsbulletin.com

women. Foods high in nitrate, particularly beets, are being explored as a natural method to support heart and blood vessel health.”

Nitrate is approved as a food additive in some animal products but is regulated due to potential cancer risks, Delgado Spicuzza noted. Plants such as beets, spinach, and lettuce naturally accumulate nitrate, which offers cardiovascular benefits.

Beetroot Juice Intervention and Vascular Function Assessment In the study, participants had their vascular function tested at the Penn

State Clinical Research Center, then consumed two 2.3-ounce bottles of beetroot juice as an initial dose, followed by one bottle each morning for a week.

Participants consumed concentrated beetroot juice, with each serving containing as much nitrate as three large beets. Several weeks later, participants drank beetroot juice with the nitrate removed.

Neither the researchers nor the participants knew which type of juice was being consumed during testing. The researchers compared blood vessel expansion for each woman when consuming nitrate-rich beetroot juice

“Women may need to consume beetroot juice daily—or even more frequently—to gain all potential cardiovascular benefits,” said Proctor. “This research demonstrates that beetroot juice can be highly effective in protecting blood vessel health in mid-life women during a period of increasing heart disease risk.”

mending beetroot juice for men and women with high blood pressure,” Delgado Spicuzza said. “By offering a safe and effective way to improve blood vessel function, beets could help maintain cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. Considering that most women are postmenopausal for at least a third of their lives, the potential significance of these findings becomes clear.”

Delgado Spicuzza received the Mid-Atlantic American College of Sports Medicine 2023 Doctoral Student Investigator Award for her presentation on this research. She expressed satisfaction in seeing this research resonate with both researchers and the women involved in the study, many of whom planned to continue consuming beetroot juice.

Collaborators and Funding Support

Contributors to this research included several researchers from Penn State, Edith Cowan University in Australia, Both early and late postmenopausal Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Cenwomen experienced the same beneter, Wake Forest University, and the fits. Delgado Spicuzza highlighted the University of Leeds in the UK. The resignificance of finding improvements searchers expressed gratitude to the in blood vessel health for women who Clinical Research Center nurses for had gone through menopause years their contributions. Funding for this earlier. research was provided by the National Institutes of Health and the Huck Promoting Beetroot Juice for Endowment for Nutritional Research Cardiovascular Health in Family and Community Medicine at Penn State College of Medicine “Some clinicians are already recomand University Park.

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This Week in Science

Astronomy

Astronomers Witness the First Activation of a Supermassive Black Hole

A supermassive black hole in galaxy SDSS1335+0728 has lit up, possibly giving astronomers a look at how such beasts are awakened.M. KORNMESSER/ESO

For the last four years, astronomers have observed the supermassive black hole at the center of SDSS1335+0728 undergo a transformation from a dim and inactive state to a bright and active one.

This real-time observation marks the first such transition ever documented.

Researchers reported these findings in the June 18 issue of Astronomy and Astrophysics.

This discovery promises to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms behind active galactic nuclei (AGN), where supermassive black holes consume vast amounts of material, becoming luminous enough to be observed from great distances across the universe.

Discovery of SDSS1335+0728

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Situated 300 million light-years away from Earth, SDSS1335+0728 attracted scientists’ notice in December 2019 when the Zwicky Transient Facility at Palomar Observatory in California detected a significant increase in its brightness in optical wavelengths.

“At first, we thought, ‘Okay, this is a typical AGN candidate,’” explained Paula Sánchez Sáez, an astrophysicist at the European Southern Observatory in Garching, Germany. However, upon examining archival data spanning 20 years, they discovered that SDSS1335+0728 had not previously exhibited signs of activity.

Black holes can become luminous when they tear apart and consume stars, a phenomenon known as a tidal disruption event (SN: 5/16/22).

Prolonged Brightness of SDSS1335+0728 As material from the disrupted object swirls around the black hole, it heats up and emits intense radiation. Such events are typically brief, lasting a few days to months. Despite expectations, Sánchez Sáez and her team observed SDSS1335+0728 remaining bright for several years.

Just as the team prepared to publish their findings, in February, the space-based Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory detected SDSS1335+0728 beginning to emit X-rays. Other observatories observed it activating across various

wavelengths.

“Based on all the data we’ve gathered, it appears we are witnessing the formation of an AGN for the first time,” Sánchez Sáez remarked.

Speculation on SDSS1335+0728’s Galactic Interaction There is speculation that SDSS1335+0728 may be consuming a smaller satellite galaxy that has fallen into it, although the exact nature of the process remains unclear.

Anglia, explores the rising popularity of disposable vape use among young people in the UK. It reveals that while young individuals view smoking and vaping as interchangeable, they show more awareness of the potential risks linked to vaping than to smoking.

The study findings suggest that banning disposable vape products or raising their prices may prompt

However, the researchers plan to conduct follow-up observations using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and future facilities like the Extremely Large Telescope.

These observations could reveal how gas moves around the black hole and potentially offer insights into the observed phenomenon.

“We hope that studying this source will provide insights into how AGNs form and how supermassive black holes grow,” Sánchez Sáez concluded.

Disposable Vapes are Increasingly Popular Among Young People A recent study published in Addiction, titled “Young People’s use of Disposable Vapes: A Qualitative Study,” conducted by the University of East

Credit: Pixabay

young people to revert to smoking tobacco. Many respondents expressed beliefs that even if disposable vapes were prohibited, they could continue to access them through stockpiling or illegal purchases.

Research Focus and Methodology Professor Caitlin Notley, lead researcher and an expert in Addiction Sciences at UEA’s Norwich Medical School, emphasized the significant increase in youth use of disposable Page. 10

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Healthcare

vapes in the UK in recent years.

The study aimed to uncover the motivations and experiences driving this trend, employing various methods to explore the behavior of 29 young participants aged 16 to 20. These methods included individual interviews, recorded conversations among friends using prompt cards, and small group interviews tailored to support participants with special educational needs.

Key findings from the study include: Motivations: Participants identified affordability, ease of access, attractive designs, colors, names, and flavors as key reasons for their attraction to disposable vapes.

Behavioral patterns: Many young individuals engaged in both vaping and tobacco smoking, perceiving these activities as interchangeable depending on the situation. There was a widespread misconception regarding the comparative health risks of vaping versus smoking.

Social and emotional factors: Experimentation with vapes was common among participants, who often used them to manage stress and anxiety. Vaping was also seen as a social activity accepted within peer groups.

Participants demonstrated greater awareness of the potential harms of vaping compared to smoking.

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Regulatory concerns: Strict regulations, such as banning disposable vape products or increasing their prices, may drive young people back to smoking tobacco. Many participants believed they could continue using disposable vapes through stockpiling or illegal purchases if they were banned.

The study was conducted in collaboration with Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the Nicotine, Tobacco, and Vaping Research Group at London South Bank University.

Online Support and Challenges in Deprescribing Antidepressants

Impact of Disposable Vapes Dr. Ian Pope, co-author from UEA’s Norwich Medical School and an emergency physician, highlighted the attractiveness and accessibility of disposable vapes to young people in the UK, contributing to their normalization within this demographic. Despite recognizing health risks, young people continue to use both vaping and smoking interchangeably.

The researchers suggest that stricter enforcement of age restrictions on sales, along with limitations on packaging and marketing, could potentially reduce young people’s use of disposable vapes. However, they caution that such interventions might unintentionally increase the use of illicit vapes and, more concerning, tobacco use among young individuals.

Professor Caitlin Notley emphasized the need for policy interventions that not only address disposable vape use but also reduce access to illicit vapes and tobacco, while enhancing awareness of the relative health risks associated with these products.

durations for antidepressant use post-depression, raising questions about what constitutes appropriate treatment duration.

Although antidepressants are commonly prescribed, the process of “‘deprescribing’—safely reducing and withdrawing them—is not yet standard practice.” A recent study by researchers from the University of Melbourne investigated the resources accessible to individuals attempting to discontinue their antidepressant medications.

Experiences and Perspectives of Individuals Deprescribing Antidepressants

Perceived clinician expertise gaps lead to online support for those stopping antidepressants.

Credit: Depositphotos

Recent research indicates that individuals seeking to discontinue antidepressant medication are increasingly relying on online groups due to “insufficient support from medical professionals.” This trend underscores a significant gap in care that needs urgent attention.

Antidepressant use is rising globally, driven not by new prescriptions but by existing patients prolonging their medication intake. Guidelines from the US NIH and organizations like RANZCP and NICE suggest specific

Data from a survey of 30 participants primarily residing in the US, Australia, and the UK, who were members of a specialized Facebook group offering guidance on deprescribing antidepressants, included quantitative and qualitative insights. The survey covered participants’ current depressive symptoms, attitudes toward antidepressants, and their approaches to seeking assistance.

The majority of participants (63.3%) were female, primarily aged between 46 and over 50. A significant portion (73.3%) had been diagnosed with depression four or more years before the study. More than half (53.3%) had been taking their current antiPage. 11

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depressant medication for over four years, and a substantial number (56.7%) reported experiencing withdrawal symptoms when reducing or stopping their medication. Common withdrawal symptoms included insomnia (70%), dizziness (52%), anxiety (52%), and increased pain sensations (47%).

Participants generally held skeptical views about antidepressants, often viewing them as unnecessary for treating their depression. Concerns were also expressed regarding the medication’s adverse effects and the practices surrounding antidepressant prescriptions by healthcare providers.

Perceived Clinical Gaps Upon analysis, two main themes emerged: “Participants perceived a lack of expertise among their healthcare providers, particularly general practitioners and psychiatrists, in deprescribing antidepressants. This resulted in insufficient shared decision-making about treatment and neglect of withdrawal symptoms.

Due to these perceived clinical gaps, participants sought validation and support online through education and shared experiences with peers.”

Participants in the study highlighted significant gaps in clinician knowledge and support regarding antidepressant deprescribing. For instance, a UK participant aged 36 to 45 expressed frustration: “GP & psychiatrist

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don’t know how to get you off these drugs safely.” Another participant in the same age group from the UK remarked on her experience after childbirth and stress: “He should have considered hormonal changes or referred me to talking therapy.”

Similarly, a male participant aged 26 to 35 from Germany noted the lack of information on withdrawal and side effects.

Participants sought online support primarily because they found peers who understood the challenges of withdrawal and offered practical guidelines. An Australian female participant aged 36 to 45 appreciated forums where members shared experiences and provided support during antidepressant tapering. Likewise, a male participant from the Netherlands in the same age group highlighted the benefit of connecting with others facing similar situations.

Withdrawal effects from psychiatric medications have been recognized since the 1950s, with over half of individuals discontinuing antidepressants experiencing withdrawal symptoms, described as severe by 46% of them.

Adele Framer’s personal experience with paroxetine withdrawal, including hypomania and “brain zaps” lasting seven months, underscores the challenges faced by individuals tapering off antidepressants like paroxetine, a widely prescribed SSRI in the US since 1992.

Need for Enhanced Clinical Support Both Framer and the author share personal experiences that underscore the formidable obstacles individuals encounter when discontinuing antidepressants. Framer’s severe symptoms, including hypomania and persistent “brain zaps”, despite seeking reinstatement based on medical advice, highlight the widespread challenge of antidepressant withdrawal syndrome. Similarly, the author experienced intense emotional reactions such as extreme anger during their journey off paroxetine, resulting in professional consequences and a sense of isolation from medical assistance.

These stories highlight a larger issue highlighted by the study: “the urgent necessity for effective clinician guidance and support during antidepressant deprescribing.” Many individuals seek information and community support online because they perceive shortcomings in clinician-led care. Participants voice concerns about the heavy reliance on antidepressants in treatment and call for greater consideration of alternative therapies that could be just as effective or preferred. Bridging these gaps in clinical support is crucial to facilitate safe and informed transitions for patients navigating antidepressant discontinuation.

Exploring the Vital Role of Qualitative Research Qualitative research, though sometimes viewed as less definitive than

quantitative methods that yield numerical data, is essential for delving into the intricate dimensions of human experiences and behaviors.

While both qualitative and quantitative approaches adhere to rigorous standards such as validity, reliability, and generalizability, they diverge in their methodologies and the nature of data collection. “Qualitative research prioritizes a deep exploration through methods like interviews, observations, and textual analysis, aiming to uncover rich insights into subjective perspectives and contexts.”

Despite its insights, this study acknowledges several limitations highlighted by the researchers. The study’s small sample size, predominantly from a specific online community, suggests that responses may reflect shared perspectives within this group.

Therefore, the findings may not be broadly applicable to all social media platforms.

To address these limitations, future research should focus on “effective strategies for identifying patients ready for antidepressant deprescribing, with an emphasis on integrating moderated peer support alongside clinical guidance.” Implementing these findings into practice necessitates healthcare providers undergoing evidence-based training better to support patients through the complex process of antidepressant withdrawal.

This approach strengthens doctor-patient relationships and restores patient confidence in clinical Page. care.12

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CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

Climate change is a threat, not a distraction, to the US military

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Some members of Congress have recently tried to play the gotcha game, pressing witnesses to answer whether climate change is as serious a national security threat as other traditional issues. In one Armed Services Committee hearing, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro was asked whether climate change was more of a threat than “Communist China” or “nuclear annihilation.”

New energy vehicles (electric or hybrid) are seen at Changan Automobile’s vehicle distribution center in Chongqing, China, on June 16, 2024. (Photo: Costfoto/NurPhoto via Reuters)

A water spray helps people in Bratislava to cool down on a hot summer day.

Credit: Bilge Kagan Kaya/Alamy

How climate change is hitting Europe: three graphics reveal health impacts A growing body of research reveals the deaths and diseases linked to rising temperatures across the continent. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02006-3

https://www.defenseone.com/ ideas/2024/06/climate-change-threat-not-distraction-us-military/397440/

Lessons from trade tensions targeting “overcapacity” in China’s cleantech industry ao Zhe is global policy advisor for Greenpeace East Asia.

“Overcapacity”, a geeky economic term, has recently become the new buzzword for international discussion around China’s solar and electric vehicle industries. It is also becoming one of the thorniest issues in China’s relations with other major economies. https://www.climatechangenews.com/2024/06/18/ lessons-from-rising-tensions-around-overcapacity-in-chinas-cleantech-industry/

Image credit: Rachel Landers / Joint Region Marianas

Climate Change in Africa: is Africa sleepwalking to disaster?

To better understand the conversations, stories, and resulting narratives around climate change in Africa, we conducted a quantitative study comparing online media from mainstream African news sources, conversations on Twitter, and searches on Google, between October 2020 and September 2021. https://africanofilter.org/frv-research/ climate-change-in-africa-is-africa-sleepwalking-to-disaster

Image credit: www.pexels.com

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The AI Arms Race: Apple and OpenAI’s Partnership Raises the Bar for Privacy and a More Secure User Experience

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

Apple unveiled at its World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC24) Private Cloud Compute, or PPC, last Monday as a new way to manage the technical possibilities around security and privacy in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. https://www.aei.org/technology-and-innovation/the-ai-arms-race-apple-and-openais-partnership-raises-the-bar-for-privacy-and-a-more-secure-user-experience/ Image credits: unsplash.com

STEPHANIE ARNETT/MIT TECHNOLOGY REVIEW | PUBLIC DOMAIN

AI technology offers hope Meta has created a way for faster stroke to watermark AI detection generated speech

Strokes, which affect millions of people globally, occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, which prevent brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. A few minutes of delay can result in permanent damage to the brain cells.

https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240618/AI-technology-offers-hope-for-faster-stroke-detection.aspx

The tool, called AudioSeal, could eventually help tackle the growing use of voice cloning tools for scams and misinformation.

Meta has created a system that can embed hidden signals, known as watermarks, in AI-generated audio clips, which could help in detecting AI-generated content online. https://www.technologyreview. com/2024/06/18/1094009/meta-has-created-a-way-to-watermark-ai-generated-speech/

Italfarmaco partners with Iktos on artificial intelligence to speed drug discovery breakthroughs for patients Italfarmaco partners with Iktos on artificial intelligence to speed drug discovery breakthroughs for patients

Credits: Unsplash.com

https://www.morningstar.com/news/ globe-newswire/1000966894/italfarmaco-partners-with-iktos-on-artifiKilnam Chon during a conference at the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Horror studio Blumhouse announces six new video game The creators of Immortality will be working on Project C. There’s also a Stardew Valleyesque farming sim where one of the townsfolk is a serial killer, Grave Seasons.

Fear The Spotlight is a game made by a husband and wife about two teenage girls and a seance gone wrong. https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/horror-studio-blumhouse-announ-

Summer screen time: Balancing video games with educational, outdoor activities for kids

TWIS 03-10 JUN 24

https://cbs12.com/news/local/summer-screen-time-balancing-video-games-with-educational-activities-for-kids

Paradox Interactive has cancelled Sims rival Life By You

‘Sasquatch Sunset’ review: the weirdest and wackiest film of 2024 Could this be the most off-the-wall film of the year? Shot like a nature doc, Sasquatch Sunset follows a family of Bigfoots – two adult males, an adult female and a child – as they navigate four seasons in the leafy North California wilderness. https://www.nme.com/reviews/ film-reviews/sasquatch-sunset-review-the-weirdest-and-wackiest-film-of-2024-3764886

Paradox Interactive has cancelled Sims rival Life By You, weeks after delaying the game indefinitely.

The company’s deputy CEO, Mattias Lilja, announced the game’s cancellation on Paradox’s forums on Monday. https://www.videogameschronicle. com/news/life-by-you-has-been-cancelled-by-paradox-interactive/

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COMING UP NEXT

A postdoc and a professor Mon, 24 Jun 2024 Have you ever wondered what happens in a research meeting between a professor and a postdoc or graduate student?

As part of our demystifying of mathematical (and not just mathematical) life, Fields Medallist James Maynard and postdoctorcal researcher Lasse Grimmelt allowed us to film one of their meetings.

TERM OF THE WEEK OLIGOSACCHARIDE

This word cna be separated as follows: Oligo-sccharide.

Oligo - means few oe little, saccharide - means sugar. An oligosaccharide is a carbohydrate that contains a small number of component sugar.

https://www.spacefoundation. org/2024/06/18/space-foundation-now-accepting-applications-for-

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Solution to the brainteaser: 19 cubes Page. 18

This Week in Science

Artificial Intelligence, Psychology

AI Can Identify the Emotions of Athletes

Credit: Pixabay

A novel emotion analysis model capable of identifying emotional states with accuracy comparable to humans.

del for Emotion Recognition in Tennis Players In their study titled “Recognizing affective states from the expressive behavior of tennis players using convolutional neural networks,” interdisciplinary teams from sports sciences, software development, and computer science at KIT and the University of Duisburg-Essen developed a specialized AI model. They employed pattern-recognition algorithms to analyze video footage of tennis players captured during live matches.

“Our model achieves an accuracy of up to 68.9 percent in identifying affective states, which compares favorably and sometimes exceeds assessments made by both human observers and earlier automated methods,” explained Professor Darko Jekauc from KIT’s Institute of Sports and Sports Science.

Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the University of Duisburg-Essen have successfully utilized computer-assisted neural networks to accurately detect emotional states from the body language of Utilization of Real-Life Scenarios in tennis players during matches.

Training the AI System A notable and distinctive aspect of This study marks the first instance the study is the team’s use of auwhere they trained an artificial intethentic, real-life scenarios rather than lligence (AI) model using real-game simulated or artificial settings to data. Published in the journal Knowtrain their AI system. The researchers ledge-Based Systems, their research recorded video sequences featuring demonstrates AI’s capability to inter15 tennis players in specific match pret body language and emotions conditions, focusing on their body with a level of accuracy comparable language reactions when winning or to humans. However, it also raises losing points. ethical considerations.

These videos captured players exhiDevelopment of a Specialized AI Mobiting cues such as lowered heads,

TWIS 03-10 JUN 24

raised arms in celebration, dangling rackets, or variations in walking speed, which helped discern their affective states.

By analyzing this dataset, the AI learned to correlate specific body language signals with various emotional reactions and accurately distinguish between positive (winning a point) and negative (losing a point) affective states. “Training in natural contexts represents a significant advancement for identifying genuine emotional states and enables predictions in real-world scenarios,” noted Jekauc.

The research not only suggests that AI algorithms may eventually outperform human observers in identifying emotions but also uncovered an intriguing finding: both humans and AI excel at recognizing negative emotions.

Recognition of Negative Emotions in Emotion Detection “The reason for this could be that negative emotions are more straightforward to identify as they are expressed more visibly,” explained Jekauc.

“Psychological theories propose that people are evolutionarily more adept at detecting negative emotional cues, possibly because swiftly resolving conflict situations is crucial for maintaining social harmony.”

The study envisions numerous sports applications for accurate emotion re-

cognition, such as enhancing training methodologies, team dynamics, performance optimization, and mitigating burnout. Additionally, other fields like healthcare, education, customer service, and automotive safety could leverage early detection of emotional states for various benefits.

“Although this technology holds the promise of substantial advantages, it is crucial to consider the potential risks, particularly concerning privacy and data misuse,” Jekauc emphasized. “Our research strictly adhered to existing ethical guidelines and data protection regulations. Looking ahead to practical applications of this technology, it will be vital to address ethical and legal concerns proactively.”

Internet Addiction Affects Adolescent Behavior and Development

Credit: Pixabay

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This Week in Science

Earth Science

According to a recent study by UCL researchers published in PLOS Mental Health, adolescents experiencing internet addiction undergo brain changes that may contribute to further addictive behaviors. The study reviewed 12 articles from 2013 to 2023, involving 237 young individuals aged 10-19 diagnosed with internet addiction.

The individual’s inability to resist the urge to use the internet characterizes internet addiction, detrimentally impacting their psychological wellbeing, as well as their social, academic, and professional lives.

Researchers utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine the functional connectivity— how different brain regions interact— of participants diagnosed with internet addiction, both during rest and while performing tasks.

Impact of Internet Addiction on Adolescent Neural Networks The study revealed widespread effects of internet addiction on various neural networks in the adolescent brain. There was observed variation in activity levels within the default mode network, which is active during resting periods. Additionally, there was an overall decrease in functional connectivity within the executive control network, responsible for active cognition.

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These changes are associated with the development of addictive behaviors and tendencies in adolescents, affecting intellectual abilities, physical coordination, mental health, and overall development.

Lead author Max Chang, an MSc student at UCL’s Great Ormond Street Institute for Child Health, commented: “Adolescence is a critical stage of development characterized by significant biological, cognitive, and personality changes. Consequently, the adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to urges related to internet addiction, such as compulsive internet use, cravings for mouse or keyboard interaction, and media consumption.”

Behavioral and Developmental Consequences of Internet Addiction “Our study findings indicate that these outcomes could result in adverse behavioral and developmental consequences that may affect adolescents’ lives. For instance, they might encounter challenges in maintaining relationships and participating in social activities, engage in deceptive behavior regarding online activities, and experience irregular eating patterns and disrupted sleep.”

With smartphones and laptops becoming increasingly accessible, internet addiction is becoming a prevalent issue worldwide. Previous studies have highlighted that individuals in the UK Image credits: pexels.com, fauxels

spend more than 24 hours online per week, with over half of respondents self-reporting internet addiction.

Meanwhile, Ofcom reported that among the 50 million internet users in the UK, more than 60% acknowledged negative impacts from their internet usage, such as tardiness or neglecting responsibilities.

Irene Lee’s Perspective on Internet Usage Irene Lee, senior author from UCL’s Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, remarked, “While the internet offers clear advantages, when its use begins to disrupt daily life, it becomes problematic.”

“We recommend that young people establish sensible limits on their daily internet use and recognize the psy-

chological and social consequences of excessive online time,” she added.

Mr. Chang further stated, “We anticipate our findings will illustrate how internet addiction modifies the interplay among brain networks during adolescence, aiding healthcare providers in better screening and treating the onset of internet addiction.”

“Clinicians could potentially prescribe targeted treatments focusing on specific brain regions or recommend therapies like psychotherapy or family counseling tailored to address key symptoms of internet addiction.”

Importance of Parental Education on Internet Addiction “Crucially, educating parents about internet addiction could serve as another avenue for prevention from a public health perspective. Parents informed about early signs and onset of internet addiction can more effectively manage screen time, impulsivity, and mitigate risk factors associated with internet addiction.”

Limitations of the study include the current constraints in utilizing fMRI scans to explore internet addiction, with studies predominantly involving small samples of adolescents from Asian countries. Future research should seek to compare findings from Western samples to enhance understanding and inform therapeutic interventions.

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This Week in Science

Earth Science

TWIS 03-10 JUN 24

Why Mental Health Care Providers Choose to Work in Rural Areas

Credit: usplash.com, nrd

Americans in rural areas face higher rates of depression and suicide compared to urban residents. These persistent mental health disparities are due to various factors such as cost, limited access, and ongoing stigmas associated with seeking care.

A new study from the University of Minnesota’s School of Public Health, Medical School, and School of Social Work, published in JAMA Network Open, examines the rural mental health workforce shortages, a long-standing obstacle to care, by investigating the factors affecting healthcare professionals’ practice locations.

Survey Data and Participants The study utilized survey data gathered by the Minnesota Department

of Health between February 2022 and 2023, incorporating responses from four categories of mental health professionals: medication-prescribing clinicians like psychiatrists; licensed mental health practitioners including clinical counselors; licensed psychologists; and licensed alcohol and drug counselors.

Key findings include: Rural Upbringing: Mental health professionals from rural backgrounds are notably more inclined to work in rural settings. This trend holds across all professional groups, with 75% of licensed alcohol and drug counselors practicing in rural areas.

Practice Location by Profession: The likelihood of working in rural areas dif-

fers significantly among professions.

Licensed alcohol and drug counselors are the most likely to practice rurally, whereas psychologists are the least likely.

Autonomy: For psychologists and other prescribing clinicians, the desire for autonomy—being able to work independently and make their own professional decisions—is a significant motivator for choosing rural practice.

Financial Incentives: Financial incentives like loan forgiveness programs are crucial in influencing rural practice decisions, especially among licensed mental health professionals and licensed psychologists.

Addressing Rural Mental Health Care Shortages “There is a pressing need to address the mental health care shortages

and disparities in rural U.S. areas,” said Carrie Henning-Smith, associate professor at SPH and lead author.

“Though there’s no universal solution, a tailored and comprehensive recruitment strategy is crucial to attract more mental health practitioners to rural regions.”

The authors recommend policy measures to encourage rural residents to join the mental health profession by enhancing education, training, and licensure pathways, and by aligning recruitment strategies with the unique motivations of various professional groups.

This study expands on the authors’ 2023 research on factors influencing healthcare professionals’ practice location choices.

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CARS & GADGETS

HP Omen Transcend 14: Gaming laptop that’s not short on comfort

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June 2025 is brimming with anticipation as technology enthusiasts eagerly await the launch of cutting-edge gadgets.

A wave of sleek smartphones is on the horizon, promising to redefine user experiences with innovative features and top-tier performance.

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Math discovery provides new method to study cell activity, aging

MATHEMATICS

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

New mathematical tools revealing how quickly cell proteins break down are poised to uncover deeper insights into how we age, according to a recently published paper co-authored by a Mississippi State researcher and his colleagues from Harvard Medical School and the University of Cambridge. https://phys.org/news/2024-05-math-discovery-method-cell-aging.html

How a Secret Society Discovered Irrational Numbers Mathematicians Attempt to Glimpse Past the Big Bang About 13.8 billion years ago, the entire cosmos consisted of a tiny, hot, dense ball of energy that suddenly exploded.

That’s how everything began, according to the standard scientific story of the Big Bang, a theory that first took shape in the 1920s.

https://www.quantamagazine. org/mathematicians-attempt-to-glimpse-past-the-big-bang-20240531/

In Highly Connected Networks, There’s Always a Loop As mathematical abstractions go, graphs are among the simplest. Scatter a bunch of points in a plane. Connect some of them with lines. That’s all a graph is. And yet they are incredibly powerful. They can be used to attack a wide variety of problems, from modeling neurons in the brain to routing delivery trucks on the roads. https://www.quantamagazine.org/in-highly-connected-networks-theres-always-a-loop-20240607/

The ancient scholar Hippasus of Metapontum was punished with death for his discovery of irrational numbers—or at least that’s the legend.

What actually happened in the fifth century B.C.E. is far from clear.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/ article/how-a-secret-society-discovered-irrational-numbers/ Page. 24

QUANTUM REALM

Time May Actually Be One Big Illusion, Says a New Study Could the observable universe be exclusively composed of layered, mutually entangled systems?

The passage of time puzzles quantum physicists, who seek to fit it into a cohesive model.

One wild theory posits that time visibly passes because we’re entangled with... well ... everything.

Quantum computing trade-off problem addressed by new system

New theory helps explore a wider range of phase transitions

The potential of quantum computers is currently thwarted by a trade-off problem.

Quantum systems that can carry out complex operations are less tolerant to errors and noise, while systems that are more protected against noise are harder and slower to compute with.

In a paper recently published in Physical Review Letters, Los Alamos National Laboratory researchers offer a new theory that predicts defect density across a variety of phase transitions.

Now a research team from Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden has created a unique system that combats the dilemma, thus paving the way for longer computation time and more robust quantum computers.

For the impact of quantum computers to be realized in society, quantum researchers first need to deal with some major obstacles. So far, errors and noise stemming from, for example, electromagnetic interference or magnetic fluctuations, cause the sensitive qubits to lose their quantum states—and subsequently their ability to continue the calculation.

Time has puzzled scientists for many decades. Does it meaningfully exist apart from our experience of it as everything moves toward the disintegration of entropy along its irrefutable arrow? https://www.popularmechanics. com/science/a61021621/is-time-just-an-illusion/

https://phys.org/news/2024-06-quantum-problem.html#google_vignette

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https://discover.lanl.gov/news/ 0618-phase-transitions/

A quantum world on a silicon chip The quantum internet would be a lot easier to build if we could use existing telecommunications technologies and infrastructure. Over the past few years, researchers have discovered defects in silicon — a ubiquitous semiconductor material — that could be used to send and store quantum information over widely-used telecommunications wavelengths.

https://seas.harvard.edu/ news/2024/06/quantum-world-silicon-chip

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New data showcase promise, growing pains of CAR-T in autoimmune disease

BIOTECH & GENETIC

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

While one expert described clinical trial results to date as “unprecedented,” reports of relapses in some patients drew questions about the therapies’ ultimate potential. https://www.biopharmadive.com/ news/car-t-autoimmune-disease-lupus-eular-kyverna-cabaletta/719081/

Abortion pill ruling offers measure of relief for FDA, biotech

Taysha links gene therapy to motor gains in small Rett study Taysha Gene Therapies has unfurled more data in the developmental disorder Rett syndrome, linking its gene therapy to improvements in the first adults and children to receive low doses of the candidate.

The Dallas-based biotech shared longer-term data on two adults and initial data on two children.

Taysha had 52 weeks of follow up on one of the adults, plus 25 weeks of data on the other, as of the cutoff. The principal investigator tracked improvements in motor skills, communication and other measures over the follow-up periods. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/ biotech/taysha-links-gene-therapy-motor-gains-small-rett-study

Challenges and Shifts in Cell Therapy: A Biotech Industry Analysis The field of cell therapy, once considered groundbreaking in biotechnology, is currently encountering major challenges and experiencing significant changes. Despite some promising advancements, such as the initial success of CAR-T cell therapy, the sector has faced various setbacks, including manufacturing complexities, market challenges, and therapeutic relapses. Biopharma analysts are expressing concerns about the waning interest in cell therapies.

They believe that significant https://thehealthcaretechnologyreport.com/challenges-and-shifts-in-cell-therapy-a-biotech-industry-analysis/

The Supreme Court’s unanimous decision last week to reject a conservative group’s challenge to the Food and Drug Administration’s regulation of the abortion pill mifepristone could help to bolster the agency’s decision-making authority.

In a ruling Thursday, the Supreme Court reversed an appeals court verdict that would have limited access to mifepristone, finding the plaintiffs lacked a legal basis to sue the FDA.

https://www.biopharmadive.com/ news/supreme-court-mifepristone-biotech-fda-impact/719059/

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The Ultimate Guide To Meditation & Happiness

WELLNESS

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The happiness boosting benefits of meditation are off the charts. Here, we make the compelling case for how and why meditators are the world’s happiest people. https://eocinstitute.org/meditation/ meditation-and-happiness-why-meditation-makes-you-so-happy/

How Brainwave Entrainment With EquiSync® Can Change

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NUTRITION

The Snack for Better Gut Health, Recommended by a Gastroenterologist

A high-fat diet may fuel anxiety

These days, going with your gut means practicing the habits that support your gut health. Taking care of the trillions of bacteria that reside in your gut benefits your digestive system, immune system, metabolism and more.

When stressed out, many of us turn to junk food for solace. But new University of Colorado Boulder research suggests this strategy may backfire.

One of the most important things you can do to feed the good microbes that reside in your gut is to maintain a healthy diet, including incorporating gut-friendly foods into your everyday meals.

Mediterranean diet or not, eating seasonally can be good for you

As peak summer approaches in Sicily, Anna Fiannaca prefers the peppers, eggplants and zucchini her brothers grow over the packaged food in the supermarket.

Of course, that might include fruits, veggies and probiotic-packed foods like yogurt. But what about when it’s 3 p.m. and you’re looking for a salty snack? GI docs say that it can be easy to find the best snack for your gut health—as long as you know exactly what to look for. https://www.eatingwell.com/best-snack-for-gut-health-8664710

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The study found that in animals, a high-fat diet disrupts resident gut bacteria, alters behavior and, through a complex pathway connecting the gut to the brain, influences brain chemicals in ways that fuel anxiety. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240617173547.htm

How healthy are baked snacks?

Baked snacks, from baked fruit to baked crisps, are a key part of modern snacking. But how healthy are they, really?

The 89-year-old cooks everything from scratch and eats mostly vegetarian. But she attributes much of her continued good health to adjusting her diet to what is most available throughout the year. https://apnews.com/article/ eating-seasonal-food-wellness-af4b2b91e3eee41bb8fe8089463547e6

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The Ultimate Guide to Health and Fitness Tech for 2024

Fitness for health, not appearance: Work out As we approach the sunny and warm summer months, many individuals embrace this season with open arms, but for others, feelings of dread are experienced.

Why? Swimsuit season.

Society has long been entrenched in highly unrealistic beauty and body standards, so much so that 80% of women have called themselves fat in comparison to a “more desirable” body type — https://www.digitaljournal. com/life/fitness-for-health-not-appearance-work-out-for-the-

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WOMEN HEALTH

Chronic hypertension in pregnancy doubled in the U.S. from 2007-2021

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024: Dr. Nighat Arif writes how a lack of sanitary products is both disruptive and dangerous https://www.nih.gov/news-events/ news-releases/chronic-hypertension-

Feeding your fitness Diligently training for a marathon, Barbara alternated hard runs lasting an hour or two with easier jogs meant to give her muscles a break. But the 40-something woman couldn’t figure out why those short bursts proved just as taxing as the longer treks, leaving her sore and wiped out.

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Older Women Are Different Than Older Men. Their Health Is Woefully

Winx Health making women’s intimate care accessible and affordable

Medical research has shortchanged women for decades. This is particularly true of older women, leaving physicians without critically important information about how to best manage their health.

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The Best Supplements for Men in 2024

MEN HEALTH

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

Whether you’re clocking miles on the trail or hitting PRs at the gym, taking the right supplements can help boost your health and fitness routine.

“We all know the best way to improve our health is through our diet; however, the majority of men are missing the mark on their vitamin and micronutrient intake requirement from https://www.mensjournal.com/nutrition/best-supplements-for-men

Ro Review 2024: What to Know About This Men’s Health Service How to Lower Cortisol with Breathwork Techniques from the Experts Calls for mental health awareness are at an all-time high, and it’s more essential than ever.

In the past year, research from Mental Health UK found that over a third of adults experienced high or extreme levels of pressure and 20% of workers needed to take time off due to stress. With many teetering on the edge of burnout, we are continually told to prioritise our mental wellbeing and lower our stress levels. But where do we start? https://www.menshealth.com/ uk/health/a61098590/how-to-lower-cortisol/

‘Seeking mental health treatment is not a weakness:’ Men’s mental health highlighted June marks Men’s Health Month, and while anyone can experience depression or anxiety, men often tend to push off seeking help when needed.

“Oftentimes we see men kind of escape from whatever it is that’s bothering them,” explained Adam Borland, PsyD, clinical psychologist with Cleveland Clinic. “Whether it’s more time at work or losing themselves in a project, it’s to an unhealthy level https://www.mahoningmatters.com/news/local/arti-

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Whether you’re concerned with privacy, scheduling, or finding a doctor who specializes in men’s health, getting the help you need can feel like an uphill battle. As a digital health clinic catering to men, Ro (formerly known as Roman) lets you take an online assessment and send it to a team of medical providers for review.

https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/ro-review

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GERONTOLOGY & Mechanistic connections between LIFE EXTENSION vascular health and dementia risk in older adults

A new review paper was published in Aging (listed by MEDLINE/PubMed as “Aging (Albany NY)” and “Aging-US” by Web of Science) Volume 16, Issue 10, entitled, “Peripheral vascular dysfunction and the aging brain.”

Aging is the greatest non-modifiable risk factor for most diseases, including cardiohttps://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240612/Mechanistic-connections-between-vascular-health-and-dementia-risk-in-older-adults.aspx

Mitophagy fuels cancer stem cell growth and survival Maintaining optimal vitamin and mineral levels in men can often be overlooked, especially with ever-growing to-do lists and busy lifestyles. Moreover, getting all the essential nutrients at once can be challenging.

This is where multivitamins can be particularly beneficial for men.

How to Live to 100: Check Your Blood

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

“I am going to live forever!” you exclaim as you dip into your expensive anti-aging cream, sip your green tea and unroll your yoga mat. You’re on the right track, but research has more good news for you. https://www.lifeextension.com/news/ aging/blood-and-aging

5-Cog paradigm: A breakthrough in dementia diagnosis and care The underdiagnosis of dementia, especially among Black and Hispanic patients, is a long-standing challenge in medicine. A new study, published today in Nature Medicine, finds that an easy, five-minute assessment paired with recommendations built into the electronic medical record system led to a three-fold improvement in diagnosis and treatment for patients in a primary care setting compared to a control group.

As you explore the web for the most suitable product, you may stumble upon hundreds of options. To help simplify your search, we have created this in-depth review of some of the https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240618/Mitophagy-fuels-cancer-stem-cell-growth-and-survival.aspx

https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240604/5-Cog-paradig-

Page. 36

PSYCHOLOGY

New psychology research shows acts of kindness predict seven types of well-being

The Ultimate Guide To Grit, Mental Toughness, & Meditation

Transitioning to university is a significant life change for many students. New research, published in Social and Personality Psychology Compass, reveals that engaging in everyday acts of kindness can boost psychological well-being during this challenging period.

When it comes to mental toughness, it is said there are three types of people: the marshmallow, the jelly bean, and the rock.

https://www.psypost.org/new-psychology-research-shows-acts-of-kindness-predict-seven-types-of-well-being/

Happy couples: How to avoid money arguments If you’ve ever bickered with your spouse or partner over money, you’re not alone. Previous studies have shown that financial concerns are among the most common sources of disagreement for couples. And according to the 2014 APA Stress in America survey1, almost a third of adults with partners (31 percent) reported that money is a major source of conflict in their relationship.

Other recent research backs those survey findings. Compared to other touchy topics, couples’ arguments about money tend to be more intense, more problematic and more likely to remain unresolved. https://www.apa.org/topics/money/conflict

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

https://eocinstitute.org/meditation/ the-ultimate-guide-to-grit-mental-toughness/

Psychologists Reveal Simple Trick To Become More Likeable Psychologists have discovered a simple trick to make yourself more likeable and socially successful. But beyond helping us make a better first impression, these findings may also offer insights into our own evolution.

https://www.newsweek.com/psychologists-reveal-simple-trick-more-likeable-1914308

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COMING UP NEXT

ALMANAC & ANIVERSARY

1919 - The NC-4 aircraft arrives in Lisbon after completing the first transatlantic flight.

AWS SUMMIT WASHINGTON, DC

June 26-27, 2024 | WASHINGTON, DC Join us at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC on June 26-27, 2024. This no cost event is tailored for the public sector community. Attendees will engage in https://indiaeducationdiary.in/ global-discoveries-in-mathematics-explored-at-kings-college-london/

As the three large flying boats turned into the wind, their wakes formed graceful arcs. Approximately 1,200 people—U.S. Navy personnel, reporters and families of the crews—watched from the shore at the Rockaway Beach Naval Air Station as the aircraft climbed. Also on hand were 60 Curtiss workers, led by superintendent Peter Jensen, who had worked feverishly to put the final touches on the flying boats they had built. The three planes turned eastward and soon disappeared into the haze.

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Page. 40

ARCHEOLOGY

Paleontologists Discover New Bird-Like Dinosaur in Argentina

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

A new genus and species of unenlagiine dinosaur has been identified by paleontologists in Argentina. Named Diuqin lechiguanae, it fills a substantial gap in the fossil record of these theropod dinosaurs. https://www.sci.news/paleontology/ diuqin-lechiguanae-13025.html#google_vignette

New dinosaur species discovered in Zimbabwe named Musankwa sanyatiensis Ancient polar sea reptile fossil is oldest ever found in Southern Hemisphere

New Thoughts on the Meaning of England’s “Seahenge” Monuments

A remarkable fossil finding in Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe has led to a new dinosaur species being named by researchers: Musankwa sanyatiensis.

An international team of scientists has identified the oldest fossil of a sea-going reptile from the Southern Hemisphere -- a nothosaur vertebra found on New Zealand’s South Island.

released by the University of Aberdeen, archaeologist David Nance of the University of Aberdeen suggests that “Seahenge,” a timber circle discovered in a salt marsh on England’s eastern coastline in 1999, and a second timber circle found nearby, may have been constructed in an attempt to end a period of extremely cold weather.

The fossilized remains of the species’ single hind leg, including its thigh, shin, and ankle bones were disco-

246 million years ago, at the beginning of the Age of Dinosaurs, New Zealand was located on the southern polar coast of a vast super-ocean called Panthalassa.

‘The nothosaur found in New Zealand is over 40 million years older than the previously oldest https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2024/06/240617173438. htm

https://archaeology.org/ news/2023/09/18/new-thoughts-on-the-meaning-of-englands-seahenge-monuments/

https://abcnews.go.com/International/new-dinosaur-species-discovered-zimbabwe-named-musankwa-

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SPACE EXPLORATION & COSMOLOGY

NASA’s Perseverance Mars rover enters new Red Planet territory: ‘Bright Angel’

ExLabs wins funds to accelerate space robotics

“We had been eyeing the river channel just to the north as we went, hoping to find a section where the dunes were small and far enough apart for a rover to pass between.”

The $1.9 million agreement with the U.S. Space Systems Command is a Tactical Funding Increase.

Since January, NASA’s Perseverance rover has been tracing the south side of Neretva Vallis, which is possibly the fossil of a river that once fed the rover’s landing site in Jezero Crater.

Iconic Crab Nebula shines in gorgeous James Webb Space Telescope views In July 1054, astronomers in China documented a “guest star” in the sky that shone as brightly as Jupiter for nearly a month before gradually fading into invisibility.

That “star” was, in fact, a cloud of debris blown into space by a dying star roughly 6,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus. In the 19th century, Irish astronomer Lord Rosse named the curious object the Crab Nebula, not least because it appeared to have “streams running out like claws in every direction.” https://www.space.com/crab-nebula-james-webb-space-telescope-video-photo

In the distance, Perseverance’s operators could see the glimmer of its next destination: Bright Angel, so named for the light-toned outcrops that may be ancient rocks uncovered by the previously running river.

But what had been a relatively smooth trip turned into a slog as Perseverance rolled into a field of unforeseen boulders. After days of slogging, the decision was made to reroute Perseverance across a dune field and through the river channel. It proved the correct decision: Now, Perseverance has reached Bright Angel’s landing at last.

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

Exploration Laboratories, a startup focused on space resources, will accelerate work on technology to autonomously capture space objects, thanks to a $1.9 million Tactical Funding Increase (TACFI) from SpaceWERX. https://spacenews.com/exlabs-wins-funds-to-accelerate-space-robotics/

NASA, Boeing delay Starliner astronaut landing to June 26 amid thruster issues The return to Earth of Boeing’s Starliner capsule will be delayed a few more days due to thruster troubleshooting and a scheduled spacewalk.

https://www.space.com/perseverance-dunes-bright-angel-nasa-mars-rovers

https://www.space.com/boeing-starliner-earth-return-delay-june-26-thruster-issues

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Dwyka, Deep Tech highlight new drone technology at showcase

ENGINEERING, ROBOTS, IT

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

Mining technology company Dwyka Mining Services and its sister company Deep Tech have announced the launch of several new drone technology services through its partnerships with drone technology companies Wingtra, Emesent and now Skydio. https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/ article/dwyka-highlights-new-drone-technology-at-showcase-2024-06-20

Engineers unlock design for record-breaking robot that could jump twice the AI improves human locomotion in robotic height of Big Ben exoskeletons, saves 25% energy Engineers at The University of Manchester have unlocked the secrets to designing a robot capable of jumping 120 meters— higher than any other jumping robot designed to date.

Using a combination of mathematics, computer simulations, and laboratory experiments, the researchers have discovered how to design a robot with the optimum size, shape, and arrangement of its parts, allowing it to jump high enough to clear obstacles many times its own size. https://techxplore.com/news/ 2024-06-robot-height-big-ben. html

Anew method developed by researchers uses AI and computer simulations to train robotic exoskeletons to autonomously help users save energy.

Assembly has started of the world’s biggest land-based crane Netherlands-based global major engineered heavy lift and transport company Mammoet has announced that it has started assembly of its latest, and the world’s biggest and strongest land-based, crane, the SK6000. This is a ring crane design, and its assembly is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of this year.

Researchers from North Carolina State University, in their new study, showed the technologically advanced instrument as an achievement in reinforcement learning, a technique that trains software to make decisions. https://interestingengineering. com/health/ai-improves-human-locomotion-exoskeletons

https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/ article/assembly-has-started-of-the-worlds-biggest-land-based-cra-

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A Couple-Partnership: An Alternative to Heterosexual Marriage

PARENTING & RELATIONSHIPS

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

For many years, men and women in heterosexual relationships have been changing the way they interact with each other. The traditional family, with marriage as the fundamental building block of society, is being challenged. According to the https://www.psychologytoday. com/us/blog/a-marriage-of-equal-

My Girlfriend Really, Really Doesn’t Like My Teens. Please Don’t Make Me Break Up With Her! ‘I rejected picking a parenting technique tribe – the middle way is much more pleasant’ It was a spring day in 2022 when, pregnant with my first child, I was asked by a well-meaning family member over WhatsApp if I was planning on using attachment parenting to raise my incoming bundle of joy.

Completely unprepared for this question and embarrassed that I had no idea what she was on about, I gingerly typed “attachhttps://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/health/ a61169846/rejecting-parenting-tribe/

Mindfulness enhances romantic relationships through need fulfillment, study suggests A recent study published in the journal Personal Relationships sheds light on how mindfulness, self-compassion, and other-compassion intersect with psychological need fulfillment to influence relationship and sexual satisfaction in midlife married couples.

Our advice columnists have heard it all over the years. This week, we’ve gathered some of our favorite letters from the past. Submit your questions about parenting and family life here.

It’s anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.)

The study was grounded in Self-Determination Theory, a broad https://www.psypost.org/mindfulness-enhances-romantic-relationships-through-need-fulfill-

https://slate.com/advice/2024/06/ parenting-advice-single-dads-conflict-teenagers.html?via=rss

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INVESTIMENT & FINANCE

The Best Biotech Stock to Invest $1,000 in Right Now

7 Tips For Spending Money Wisely

This stock may not be a slam dunk, but it’s looking very promising.

For some people, financial struggles are due to not bringing in enough money. But for most of us, the problem comes from spending more money than we make.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX 5.97%) is at an exciting point in its history. While it doesn’t have any medicines approved for sale at the moment, it has a couple of mid-stage programs that are shaping up to make a big splash in their target markets, assuming they end up getting approved. And that could happen fairly soon.

Could This Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stock Be the Next Nvidia?

Over the past 10 years, the semiconductor sector has had a clear winner, Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and a clear loser, Intel (NASDAQ: INTC).

Intel ceded chip manufacturing leadership to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM) back in the 2010s. As AI computing on GPUs has emerged over the past two years, Intel saw share losses to Nvidia and other TSMC customers.

However, CEO Pat Gelsinger, who was an Intel leader during its glory days, was brought in to turn “Chipzilla” around in 2021. https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/could-artificial-intelligence-ai-stock-be-next-nvidia

On average, the analysts on Wall Street see the biotech’s stock rising by 116% during the next 12 months. That’s a sign it’s an appealing option for investing a relatively small sum, perhaps as small as $1,000, to capture the large amount of growth that could be on the way. Here’s what you need to know.

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

https://www.ruleoneinvesting.com/ blog/financial-control/spending-money-wisely/

How To Become an Investor Learning to invest is a skill that can provide you with incredible lifelong value and even result in generational wealth, but it’s not something anyone knows how to do when they first start. Not even Warren Buffett.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167494324001754

https://www.ruleoneinvesting.com/ blog/stock-market-basics/become-investor/ Page. 47

Stable Weight for Longevity: No More Yo-Yo Dieting

RETIREMENT

TWIS 06-13 APR 24

If you thought weight loss was the key to longevity, you may be in for a surprise. A new study from the University of California San Diego found that women over 60 who maintained a stable weight (even when considered overweight) were more likely to reach exceptional longevity or live beyond age 90 than those who lost https://www.lifeextension.com/news/ aging/stable-weight-for-longevity

Here’s How You Can Generate an Extra $10,000 in Dividends per Year in Retirement

Almost 95 percent of Aussie adults are worried about aged care costs — can you afford it?

Planning during retirement could help ensure you can afford aged care if you need it.

Almost 95 percent of Australians aged between 18 and 54 are ‘concerned or extremely concerned about the cost of aged care,’ according to a survey conducted by Aware Super fund in early 2024. https://www.agedcareguide. com.au/talking-aged-care/ almost-95-percent-of-aussie-adults-are-worried-about-aged-

Air Force encourages retirees’ return to active duty This strategy doesn’t involve much risk and it can provide you with a lot with new program SHREVEPORT, La. - If you’re retired from the Air Force, you or someone you know may have gotten an email recently asking if you want to return to active duty?

Why is this happening and will it help the Air Force’s sagging recruiting numbers?

of diversification. Having an extra $10,000 per year can make the difference between a comfortable retirement and a stressful one. That extra cash can help you to stay on top of bills or perhaps even fund a vacation.

Derrick Bolden, Air Force retiree Derrick Bolden, Air Force retiree “I got an email, a notification saying would you like to reenhttps://www.ktbs.com/news/ arklatex-indepth/air-force-encourages-retirees-return-to-active-duty-with-new-program/

https://www.fool.com/investing/2024/06/02/heres-how-you-can-generate-an-extra-10000-in-divid/

Page. 48

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q Employment & Conferences, Books, Films , Recommendation

BOOKS, FILMS , RECOMMENDATION THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING

EMPLOYMENT & CONFERENCES Space Foundation Now Accepting Applications for International Teacher Liaison Program Written by: Space Foundation Editorial Team

The Theory of Everything is the story of the most brilliant and celebrated physicist of our time, Stephen Hawking, and Jane Wilde, the arts student he fell in love with while studying at Cambridge in the 1960s. Little was expected from Hawking, a bright but shiftless student of cosmology, after he was given just two years to live following the diagnosis of a fatal illness (ALS) at 21 years of age. He became galvanized, however, by the love Jane Wilde, and went on to be called the “successor to Einstein,” as well as a husband and father to their three children. Over the course of their marriage, however, as Stephen’s body collapsed and his academic renown soared, fault lines were exposed that tested the resolve of their relationship and dramatically altered the course of both of their lives.

Watch the trailer

International Teacher Liaison Program Application deadline: Sept. 30, 2024 Program community currently over 375 educators from 25 countries Selectees will take part in the Space Symposium in April 2025 COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.

— June 18, 2024 — Space Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1983, offering education, collaboration and information for the global space ecosystem, today announced it is accepting applications for its International Teacher Liaison program now through Monday, Sept. 30, 2024.

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TWIS SCIENCE THIS WEEK IN

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