TWIS_24-30_NOV_24 ENN

The Expansion of the Universe

A Robot Designed to Enhance Structural Strength Leaves its Imprint in Wet Concrete

When we imagine freshly poured concrete, we usually think of leaving it to dry smoothly. However, a new robot, the Conit Runner, rolls over wet concrete, carving grooves to strengthen structures while reducing costs.

Deep layers of wet concrete can crack as they dry, so concrete is typically poured in thin layers. To improve shear strength—resistance to sliding between layers— steel rebar is often added vertically throughout the structure. While rebar enhances strength, it adds cost and weight. Alternatively, workers sometimes manually groove wet layers to improve bonding, reducing rebar needs.

Revolutionizing Concrete Grooving with Robotics

The Conit Runner automates this process, cutting rows of grooves into wet concrete at speeds of up to 10 mph

(16 km/h). Equipped with LiDAR, cameras, and sensors, it navigates obstacles and ensures concrete is firm enough to support its 22-lb (10kg) weight while still soft enough for grooving. Developed by Itone and Posco E&C, the robot reportedly reduces rebar use by 30% and speeds up construction by 85%, matching the efficiency of eight workers.

Though not yet widely available, the Conit Runner shows promise for faster, more cost-effective concrete construction.

Developed collaboratively by Korean robotics company Itone and construction firm Posco E&C, the device autonomously traverses wet concrete surfaces at speeds of up to 10 mph (16 km/h), carving grooves with its two 15inch (381-mm) wheels along the way.

Equipped with LiDAR, ultrasound sensors,

cameras, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU), the robot efficiently navigates these surfaces and avoids obstacles like rows of rebar. It can also assess the concrete’s hardness, ensuring it is solid enough to support the robot’s 10-kg (22-lb) weight while remaining soft enough to create grooves at least 0.24 inches (6 mm) deep.

Itone claims that the Conit Runner can reduce the need for rebar reinforcement by up to 30% while speeding up construction by as much as 85%, delivering productivity equivalent to that of eight human workers.

As of now, there’s no information on when the robot will see widespread adoption, but you can watch it in action in the video below.

This Meteorite Has Uncovered an Ancient Traces of Water on Mars

There is increasing evidence that Mars was once a wet and watery world, with lakes and oceans shaping its surface, leaving behind sediments that are now being carefully analyzed by rovers exploring the planet’s dry, dusty landscape. We know water existed on Mars, but determining exactly when, how, and where it went is more complex. However, a new clue has emerged: a meteorite ejected from Mars 11 million years ago and later reaching Earth has revealed that liquid water may have been present on Mars less than a billion years ago.

A fresh analysis of the Lafayette Meteorite shows that minerals inside it formed in the presence of water around 742 million years ago. This is a significant breakthrough in dating Mars’ aqueous minerals, suggesting that, at times, Mars may have still been damp. Geochemist Marissa Trem-

The Conit Runner robot has been nominated for a CES 2025 innovation award. Itone

Most of the Lafayette meteorite is kept at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. (NMNH)

blay from Purdue University explains, “Dating these minerals helps us understand when liquid water existed on Mars’ surface in the planet’s past.“

Minerals in the Lafayette Meteorite, Including Iddingsite with Argon Inclusions, Provide Key Clues to Mars’ Water History

The minerals studied include iddingsite, a rock that forms from volcanic basalt in the presence of liquid water. The Lafayette Meteorite contains iddingsite, which also has argon inclusions, providing another clue.

While dating minerals can be tricky, technological advancements have made this process more accurate. Using radiometric dating, scientists analyze isotopes of argon to determine when the element formed. Argon is a product of potassium’s radioactive decay, and by measuring the amount of the isotope argon-39, researchers can calculate how long ago the rock formed.

Dating Water-Rock Reactions in Meteorites

In their study, the researchers used this technique on a sample from the Lafayette Meteorite to measure the time that had passed since water and rock interacted to form iddingsite. Despite the meteorite’s journey through space—where it was subjected to impact, heating, and atmos-

pheric entry—the team was able to model and account for these temperature changes and confirm that they did not affect the age of the mineral formation.

These findings offer new insights into the timeline of moisture on Mars, suggesting that the presence of water aligns with a period of increased volcanic activity. While such activity appears subdued now, recent data from the Mars InSight lander has revealed ongoing geological processes beneath the surface.

Beyond Mars, the researchers’ methods could have broader implications for studying other planetary bodies in the Solar System, including answering the long-standing question of how Earth acquired its water billions of years ago. “We have demonstrated a reliable way to date alteration minerals in meteorites, which can help us understand when liquid water might have been present on other planets,” says Tremblay.

A Common Blood Pressure Medication

Prolongs Lifespan and Delays Aging in Animals

The blood pressure medication rilmenidine has shown potential to slow aging and extend

lifespan in animal studies, raising the possibility of similar benefits for humans. If effective, it could promote longer, healthier lives without the challenges of extreme calorie restriction.

Previous research revealed that rilmenidine mimics the effects of caloric restriction at a cellular level. Caloric restriction, which involves reducing energy intake while maintaining proper nutrition, has been proven to extend lifespans in several animal models. However, translating these findings to humans remains uncertain, as long-term caloric restriction poses health risks such as dizziness, brittle bones, and hair thinning. Researchers hope rilmenidine could offer similar benefits without these drawbacks.

Study Highlights Rilmenidine’s Potential to Extend Lifespan and Boost Health in Worms

A 2023 study treated young and old Caenorhabditis elegans worms—a popular re-

search organism due to its genetic similarities to humans—with rilmenidine. The drug extended their lifespan and improved key health markers, much like the effects of caloric restriction. “For the first time, we have been able to show in animals that rilmenidine can increase lifespan,” said molecular biogerontologist João Pedro Magalhães from the University of Birmingham. “We are now keen to explore if rilmenidine may have other clinical applications.”

Rilmenidine Mimics

Caloric Restriction Effects in Mice, Targeting Aging Key Tissues

Additional tests on mice revealed that rilmenidine induced gene activity associated with caloric restriction, particularly in kidney and liver tissues. This finding suggests the drug might replicate some of the cellular changes that contribute to longer lifespans in calorie-restricted animals.

A key discovery was the role of the nish-1 receptor in rilmenidine’s

Image credits: Pixabay

effectiveness. When this receptor was deleted in worms, the drug no longer extended their lifespan. However, restoring the receptor reinstated the drug’s benefits, identifying a potential target for future anti-aging interventions.

Rilmenidine shows strong potential as an anti-aging treatment because people can take it orally, it is widely available, and it rarely causes mild side effects like occasional insomnia or drowsiness. Although researchers must conduct more studies to confirm its effects on human aging, these findings represent significant progress.

“With a global aging population, the benefits of delaying aging, even slightly, are immense,” said Magalhães.

Previously Unknown Chemical Discovered in Drinking Water

Drinking water in developed countries is generally clean, yet invisible contaminants can still pose risks. For decades, scientists have puzzled over a mysterious “phantom chemical” in treated water. Now, researchers have identified this elusive compound, revealing it as entirely new to science.

The Mystery of Chloramine By-Products

Chlorination is a common method for disinfecting drinking water, effectively eliminating most pathogens but often producing harmful by-products. To reduce these risks, chloramine, a related compound, is frequently used in the U.S. and other regions because it produces fewer by-products and remains effective longer. However, chloramine has its own by-products, and chemical analyses have consistently shown that 5–10% of nitrogen from chloramine disappears, locked in a compound that had evaded identification—until now.

Scientists have identified this “phantom chemical” as a chloronitramide anion, a negatively charged molecule composed of chlorine, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms. By synthesizing and isolating the compound, they used advanced tools like high-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to determine its properties.

Chloronitramide Anion Found in U.S. Water Systems at Concerning Levels

A Newly Identified By-Product Exceeding Safety Limits

Further investigation revealed the presence of chloronitramide anion in chloramine-treated water systems across the U.S., with concentrations reaching up to 100 micrograms per liter. This level exceeds the typical regulatory limits of 60–80 micrograms per liter set for disinfection by-products.

Although its toxicological profile remains unclear, early analyses suggest the compound may not be entirely harmless. “A toxicological investigation would be valuable now that we know its identity, but I’m not overly concerned about my tap water,” says Oliver Jones, Professor of Chemistry at RMIT. Jones emphasizes that while the compound’s presence has been known for over 30 years,

its detailed definition is new. He adds that the detected concentrations were generally below regulatory limits in most samples, and only 40 samples were tested— insufficient to draw conclusions about all U.S. tap water.

Whether or not chloronitramide poses significant health risks, identifying this long-unexplained chemical marks a critical step forward. The study was published in Science.

Mosquito Bites

Successfully Used to Deliver Vaccines

Mosquitoes, notorious for spreading diseases like malaria, have been repurposed by researchers as vaccine carriers. In groundbreaking human trials, these mosquito-borne vaccines showed up to 90% effectiveness, offering a surprising twist on these pests’ role in human health.

Instead of viewing mosquitoes solely as disease vectors, scientists at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine explored their potential as natural vaccine delivery systems. Remarkably, the mosquitoes themselves didn’t need to be genetically modified. The key lay in altering the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, a deadly organism that typically infects humans through mosquito bites.

Image Credits: Pixabay

The modified parasites behave like their harmful counterparts until they reach the liver, where they normally multiply and cause malaria symptoms. However, the altered GA2 parasites halt development after six days, releasing antigens instead of secondary parasites. These antigens trigger a strong immune response, effectively training the body to fight off future infections.

Human Trials Show 89% Success Rate for Modified Mosquito-Borne Vaccines

In human trials, volunteers received bites from mosquitoes carrying these altered parasites. Results showed that 89% of participants exposed to GA2 parasites avoided malaria infection when later bitten by mosquitoes carrying unmodified parasites. Side effects were minimal, limited mainly to the itching associated with mosquito bites.

the Moon’s core is solid or molten, providing a clearer understanding of the Moon’s history and, in turn, the history of the Solar System.

Apollo Seismic Data Inconclusive on Lunar Core Composition

“Our findings,” stated a team led by astronomer Arthur Briaud from the French National Centre for Scientific Research, “challenge existing theories about the Moon’s magnetic field by confirming the presence of its inner core. This supports a global mantle overturn scenario and provides valuable insights into the timeline of lunar bombardment during the Solar System’s first billion years.“

While we have seismic data from the Apollo missions, its resolution is too low to definitively determine the state of the Moon’s inner core. We know the Moon has a fluid outer core, but the details of its composition are still debated. Both models suggesting a solid inner core and an entirely fluid core are consistent with the Apollo data.

Despite these hurdles, the study opens up intriguing possibilities for future malaria control and vaccine strategies, with researchers hoping to conduct larger trials to confirm their findings.

Scientists Have Officially Confirmed the Composition of the Moon’s Interior

A detailed study released in May 2023 revealed that the Moon’s inner core is a solid sphere with a density similar to iron. Researchers believe this discovery will resolve a long-standing debate about whether

While the concept of mosquitoes delivering vaccines is promising, significant challenges remain. Producing modified parasites and infecting mosquitoes is labor-intensive and expensive, making large-scale deployment difficult. Additionally, this method is specific to malaria and unlikely to work for other diseases.

Investigating the interior of celestial bodies is most effectively done using seismic data. The movement and reflection of acoustic waves from quakes as they pass through a planet or moon’s material allow scientists to map its internal structure.

To resolve this, Briaud and his team gathered data from space missions and lunar laser-ranging experiments to create a detailed profile of the Moon’s characteristics, including its deformation due to gravitational interactions with Earth, variations in its distance from Earth, and its density.

They then ran models using different core

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

types to determine which one most closely aligned with the observational data.

The team made several intriguing discoveries. First, their models that most closely matched our current understanding of the Moon suggest active overturn within its deep mantle.

This means denser materials sink toward the center, while less dense materials rise. This process has long been considered a potential explanation for the presence of certain elements in the Moon’s volcanic regions, and the team’s findings add further support to this theory.

Lunar

Core

Structure Mirrors

Earth’s, with Fluid Outer Layer and Solid Inner Core

They also found that the lunar core closely resembles Earth’s, with an outer fluid layer and a solid inner core. Their model estimates the outer core’s radius at about 362 kilometers (225 miles), while the inner core has a radius of roughly 258 kilometers (160 miles), which accounts for about 15 percent of the Moon’s total radius.

Additionally, the inner core’s density was found to be around 7,822 kilograms per cubic meter, which is strikingly close to the density of iron.

2011 Seismological Study Reveals Similar

Findings on Lunar Core

Interestingly, in 2011, a team led by NASA Marshall planetary scientist Renee Weber reached a similar conclusion using the latest seismological techniques at the time to analyze Apollo data and study the lunar core. They found indications of a solid inner core with a radius of approximately 240 kilometers and a density of around 8,000 kilograms per cubic meter.

According to Briaud and his team, their results confirm the earlier findings and provide strong evidence for an Earthlike lunar core. This has intriguing implications for understanding the Moon’s evolution.

Shortly after its formation, the Moon had a strong magnetic field, which began to weaken around 3.2 billion years ago. Such a magnetic field is generated by motion and convection within the core, so understanding the composition of the lunar core is crucial to explaining how and why the magnetic field disappeared.

With plans for humans to return to the Moon in the near future, seismic confirmation of these findings may be just around the corner.

Researchers Pioneer Revolutionary Method for Treating Chronic Abdominal Pain

A research team from the University of Vienna, headed by medicinal chemist Markus Muttenthaler, has introduced a novel class of oral peptide therapeutic candidates to address chronic abdominal pain.

This innovative approach provides a safe, non-opioid alternative for managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which impact millions globally. The findings were recently featured in the prestigious journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition.

The Drawbacks of Opioid-Based Treatments Highlight the Need for Safer Alternatives

Medications currently used to manage chronic abdominal pain often rely on opioids, which come with serious drawbacks. These include side effects such as addiction, nausea, constipation, and central nervous system depression, leading to fatigue and drowsiness that significantly

reduce patients’ quality of life. The addiction risk, in particular, has fueled the global opioid crisis, highlighting the urgent need for safer alternatives.

The new therapeutic strategy focuses on oxytocin receptors in the gut. Oxytocin, often called the “love hormone” for its role in social bonding, also influences pain perception. When oxytocin binds to these gut receptors, it activates signals that dampen pain. This targeted approach is gut-specific, reducing the risk of systemic side effects due to its localized action.

Innovative Gut-Stable Oxytocin Compounds Offer a Convenient Oral Treatment Option

However, oxytocin itself cannot be administered orally, as it is quickly degraded in the gastrointestinal tract. Prof. Muttenthaler’s team has addressed this challenge by designing oxytocin-like compounds that are fully stable in

Image Cedits: Depositphotos

the gut while remaining potent and selective for the oxytocin receptor.

These innovations allow the compounds to be taken orally, offering a convenient treatment option. This breakthrough is especially noteworthy because most peptide-based drugs, like insulin or GLP-1 analogs, require injections due to rapid degradation in the gut.

Backed by the European Research Council, the researchers are now focused on applying their findings in practical settings. Their aim is to develop these novel peptides into a safe and effective treatment for chronic abdominal pain.

Furthermore, the broader strategy of creating oral, stable, and gut-specific peptide therapeutics could transform the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, a field where the full potential of peptide-based therapies remains untapped.

The team has successfully patented their drug candidates and is now seeking investors and industry collaborators to help progress these therapeutic leads into clinical development.

Image Credits: Pixabay

A promising path to earlier treatment may be emerging for individuals experiencing the most severe type of depression.

In a recent study, researchers observed that individuals with melancholia, a severe form of depression, displayed noticeably different reactions while watching emotionally charged films compared to those with less severe forms of depression.

This finding could enable earlier diagnosis of melancholia, ensuring patients receive appropriate treatment quickly and potentially avoiding the need for more invasive interventions caused by delayed care.

Physical Symptoms of Depression

sion exhibit very physical symptoms,” explained neuropsychiatrist Philip Mosley from Australia’s QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in an interview with ScienceAlert.

“They stop eating, struggle to sleep, move as though they’re wading through concrete, and their thinking slows dramatically. These individuals are often very unwell,” he said.

Known as melancholia, this subtype of depression frequently resists psychological treatments. Mosley described the research as an effort to develop tools that enable precise diagnosis of depression types, allowing for faster and more personalized treatment strategies.

depression and is often difficult to diagnose. Delays in diagnosis increase the likelihood that patients may require more intensive treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy or transcranial magnetic stimulation. While these treatments are highly effective, they can also seem daunting and invasive to many patients.

Mosley and his team aim to enable early diagnosis, where medications can be highly effective.

At QIMR Berghofer, researchers used emotional videos to study responses in 70 depression patients—30 with melancholic and 40 with non-melancholic depression. To explore whether melancholia’s flat affect could be detected, participants watched two clips: a humorous segment from Ricky Gervais’ Animals and the emotionally stirring short film The Butterfly Circus.

Monitoring Facial Expressions and Brain Activity in Depression Research

During the video sessions, researchers monitored patients’ facial expressions and brain activity. Facial movements were tracked using a camera to capture even the slightest muscle twitches during the Gervais clip, while brain activity was recorded using MRI scans as patients Facial Expressions

“For as long as depression has been recognized, dating back to ancient Greek times, it’s been noted that some individuals with depres-

Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Melancholia in Depression

Melancholia impacts approximately 5 to 10 percent of individuals with

watched The Butterfly Circus.

The contrast was clear: non-melancholic patients showed facial expressions and occasional giggles during the Gervais video, while melancholic patients remained motionless, like “statues,” with no smiles or chuckles, Mosley noted.

MRI scans revealed similar differences. Non-melancholic patients’ brains showed activity in the cerebellum, linked to emotional responses, whereas melancholic patients’ emotional brain regions operated independently, disconnected from other areas involved in processing emotions.

The clear difference in responses could provide a quick, non-invasive diagnostic tool for identifying melancholia, reducing delays and allowing for faster, tailored treatment.

This research also has long-term potential. By understanding the underlying causes of depression and why it can become life-threatening, scientists can better customize treatments for individuals.

“Our study shows that melancholia, recognized as a distinct form of depression since ancient times, differs in its brain and physical manifestations,” Mosley said. “This could lead us to rethink treatment approaches for quicker recovery.”

Smart Guitar Maker Unveils Effortless Music Creation Tool

The Lava Genie is a unique instrument that, while guitar-shaped, doesn’t have strings and resembles a high-tech Guitar Hero controller redesigned by Yamaha. Instead of traditional strumming, it’s played through taps, “fretting” on a touch-sensitive fingerboard, and strums. Billed as a sampler guitar, it aims to make music creation accessible to anyone in seconds.

The Genie can be used right out of the box, but its companion mobile app adds extra functionality, guiding users through thousands of songs and allowing access to hundreds of sounds. Lava also offers an AI tool that can transpose user-created tracks for guided play, though some features in the Lava+ app may require a monthly subscription.

Compact Design with Powerful Sound and Easy Portability

Its body includes a 12-W full-range dual driver on the front horn and a 20-W bass speaker in the rear, with an instrument jack for connection to an external amplifier. The Genie is portable, splitting in two to fit into a travel case or backpack and running on a 6-hour rechargeable battery that charges via USB-C.

While similar products like the Sensy Guitar and Artiphon’s Instrument 1 exist, the Genie stands out as beginner-friendly yet versatile for more experienced creators. Lava has launched the product on Kickstarter, with early backers able to pledge $349, which includes three months of

free Lava+ membership and free U.S. shipping.

Given that Lava Music is a well-established company, it offers a safer investment than many crowdfunded projects, with shipping expected to begin in December if everything goes as planned.

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.

Advertisement

About this app

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

Climate & Environment

Adaptations aid as climate change disrupts Ethiopia’s pastoral wisdom

Ethiopia’s Somali pastoralists, like Abdi Ahmed, face worsening droughts that devastate cattle and traditional survival methods. Innovations such as water-spreading weirs and real-time water monitoring platforms are being introduced to enhance resilience, blending technology with Indigenous knowledge.

Communities are also turning to agropastoralism and smaller herds to cope. Efforts to expand water storage systems and advanced weather tools show promise for scaling these strategies across Ethiopia and neighboring regions, fostering greater climate adaptation.

Maine sues energy firms for not warning about climate change

Maine is suing major energy companies, including ExxonMobil and Shell, for allegedly hiding fossil fuels’ climate risks while spreading disinformation. Attorney General Aaron Frey seeks billions in damages, citing their prioritization of profits over environmental responsibility.

The lawsuit joins over 20 similar cases nationwide. While companies claim Maine relies on oil and gas, critics argue they ignored warnings from their own research. Frey says this legal challenge aims to hold them accountable for climate-related damages to Maine’s people and environment.

COP29 concludes with climate financing deal

COP29 ended with developed nations committing $300 billion annually for adaptation and a $1.3 trillion climate financing goal by 2035. Agreements included rules for a global carbon market and support for least-developed countries. Despite progress, developing nations called the funding insufficient as extreme weather and rising sea levels escalate. WMO prioritized strengthening early warning systems, closing data gaps, and advancing Global Greenhouse Gas Watch.

Was the severe hurricane season caused by climate change?

The 2024 hurricane season highlighted significant deviations, with landfalling storms averaging 18 mph stronger due to human-driven ocean warming. Hurricanes like Beryl and Milton broke records, with Milton defying norms through rapid intensification fueled by record Gulf of Mexico warmth.

Image Credits: Solomon Yimer

Image Credits: 1000logos.net

Image Credits: UNFCCC_Kiara Worth

Image Credits: NOAA via AP

Artificial Intelligence

How the far right is using AI-generated content in Europe

Generative AI is being exploited by far-right parties and activists across Europe to spread anti-immigrant and extremist content, with no ethical concerns over authenticity. From Germany’s AfD to Italy’s Lega party, AI-generated images are being used to push divisive, anti-migrant rhetoric on social media platforms. The technology is also fueling emerging far-right movements in countries like Ireland and the UK, where AI is used to create content that stokes fear and hatred. These campaigns are often untraceable, lack watermarks, and contribute to the normalization of far-right views through photo-realistic visuals.

Why you’re wrong about AI art, according to Ai-Da, the robot behind a $1 million painting

Ai-Da, an AI-powered robot, recently made headlines when her painting of Alan Turing sold for $1,084,000 at auction, making her the first humanoid robot artist to have an artwork sold at such a venue. Ai-Da’s process involves combining AI algorithms with a robotic arm, producing work that raises questions about the nature of art and the role of technology in creativity.

Ai-Da’s creator, Aidan Meller, sees her as a continuation of artistic disruptors like Picasso and Duchamp, who challenged traditional art forms.

Hong Kong’s 2nd CREATE Symposium highlights AI in healthcare innovation

The CREATE Symposium showcased AI and robotics revolutionizing healthcare, featuring innovations in diagnostics, surgical robots, and multimodal data integration. International experts emphasized collaboration and practical applications, spotlighting CAIR’s mission to make Hong Kong a global hub for intelligent technology. The event included cutting-edge demonstrations like augmented reality navigation systems and flexible neurosurgery robots.

Europe’s AI transparency push faces staffing and pacing issues

The U.S. and EU are addressing AI transparency with varying approaches. While federal agencies and nonprofits in the U.S. hire experts to tackle AI risks, the EU implements laws like the Digital Services Act and Artificial Intelligence Act, supported by groups like ECAT and AlgorithmWatch. Both regions face challenges in hiring talent and adapting to rapid technological change. The U.S. focuses on evaluation frameworks, while the EU emphasizes high-risk AI registries. These efforts aim to enhance oversight, ensure accountability, and address the societal impacts of artificial intelligence.

Image Credits: Freepik

Entertainment

The

top PC

games to play in 2024

PC gamers are spoiled for choice with an expansive range of titles, offering everything from classic games to the latest indie hits. The ability to run games with superior graphics and backward compatibility on a well-equipped PC, along with the rise of handheld devices like the Steam Deck, changes the gaming landscape. Some of the top games to play right now include Neva, a compelling platformer; Alan Wake 2, a gripping horror story; Balatro, a magical poker game; and Cult of the Lamb, a quirky blend of farming and dungeon crawling. Also notable is Hades II, which offers intense combat and a fresh take on the Hades universe.

North Korean hackers target Macs with disguised apps and hidden malware Teen Accounts on Instagram

North Korean hackers have hidden malware in seemingly harmless macOS apps, like Minesweeper and a Notepad app, to take control of Macs. These apps use Flutter, making it difficult to detect the malicious code, which allows hackers to run commands remotely.

To protect yourself, install antivirus software, download apps only from trusted sources, and regularly update your software. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for key accounts to reduce the risk of falling victim to such attacks.

Unlocking the Fisch Archeology Bestiary requires visiting Dr. Finneus, found near the ocean in Roblox’s Fisch. Interact with him to access the Bestiary, featuring ten bone slots that hint at their locations across Moosewood, Roslit Bay, and Forsaken Shores.

Instagram’s Teen Accounts automatically implement safety features like limiting who can contact teens and restricting inappropriate content. Teens will be moved to these accounts within 60 days, with parental supervision available to help manage settings.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Engadget

Image Credits: aboutamazon.com

Image Credits: WoozyNate via roblox.com

A Surgeon Cautioned Against Kissing

Babies—Here’s Why

Image Credits: Depositphotos

As a clinical microbiologist, I always assumed it was common knowledge that kissing a newborn on the head was a bad idea. However, Dr. Karan Raj, an NHS surgeon, recently posted a TikTok warning about the risks of kissing babies, which seemed to be news for many viewers, judging by the thousands of comments.

A survey conducted by the UK charity The Lullaby Trust last year found that 54% of new and expectant parents would allow friends and family to kiss their newborn, unaware of the potential risk of serious infection.

So, why is it so dangerous to kiss a newborn?

Newborns’ Vulnerability to Infections Due to Immune System Development

Newborns have an underdeveloped immune system, making them more suscepti-

ble to infections. In the first three months of life, infants have fewer infection-fighting cells like neutrophils and monocytes compared to adults. This means that infections that might only cause mild symptoms in older children or adults can be life-threatening for babies.

One such infection is the herpes virus. While adults may experience cold sores, herpes can cause serious illness in babies. If the infection is limited to the skin, mouth, or eyes, it can usually be treated with antiviral medications. However, if the virus spreads to the baby’s organs, it becomes much more severe and potentially deadly.

Newborns, especially those under four weeks old, are particularly vulnerable to herpes and other infections.

“The curse of knowledge” (also known as

“the curse of expertise“) is a cognitive bias that occurs when you mistakenly believe that everyone has the same level of understanding as you on a particular subject.

Increased Vulnerability of Newborns to Infectious Bacteria

Newborns are more vulnerable to infectious bacteria than older children and adults, particularly to infections caused by intracellular pathogens—bacteria that can invade and survive inside the host’s cells. One such pathogen is group B streptococci (GBS), which typically reside in the gastrointestinal and genital tracts of adults without causing harm. In newborns, however, GBS can lead to sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections.

Additionally, newborns are at greater risk from E. coli strains that are generally harmless to adults but can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis in infants, potentially leading to severe outcomes.

Parents’ Right to Protect Their Newborn from Visitors’ Contact

Parents of newborns should not hesitate to ask visitors to refrain from kissing or touching their baby. If a visitor genuinely cares about the baby’s health, they should understand and respect the request. Parents should not feel as though they are overre-

acting.

The most considerate action a visitor can take is to avoid putting the baby at risk. However, if there is a compelling reason to kiss the baby, there are steps that can help minimize the risk of infection.

First, wash your hands thoroughly and avoid kissing the baby on the mouth or face—opt for kissing their foot or the back of their head instead. If you are dealing with an active infection, reconsider whether visiting the baby is necessary, especially if the baby is under a month old.

Herpes infections are particularly dangerous for newborns, so cover any cold sores with a dressing. If you are unwell but feel you must visit, wear a mask and avoid close contact with the baby, especially if you have a respiratory illness.

Remember, newborns are extremely vulnerable to infections. While kissing them is often a gesture of affection, it can also make them seriously ill—and you’d regret it if that happened.

Like the CruiseUp concept shown here, CycloTech’s BlackBird eVTOL demonstrator will feature six rotors

Researchers at Monash University in Australia are nearing a breakthrough in addressing one of the major challenges faced by eVTOL aircraft. Their new lithium-sulfur battery technology aims to provide about twice the energy density of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, along with rapid charging and discharging capabilities, offering the power needed for aerial transportation.

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have shown potential for high-density energy storage, but they’ve been hindered by slow charging and discharging speeds. Researchers at Monash University discovered that using a polyvinylpyrrolidone complex—a compound with unique properties that differ from its individual components—can help speed up the chemical reactions within the battery.

This innovation results in faster charging and

higher energy densities, as highlighted in a paper published in Advanced Energy Materials. The researchers state that the new batteries are not only quicker and more energy-dense but also considerably lighter and more cost-effective to produce.

Advancement in Battery Technology Enables Large-Scale Manufacturing Potential

“With discoveries based on readily available materials, we now have the potential to move toward large-scale manufacturing,” said Professor Mainak Majumder. This points to a key finding made during the development of the faster battery. PhD candidate Maleesha Nishshanke explained, “Drawing inspiration from the chemistry of betadine, a common household antiseptic, we discovered a way to speed up the charge and discharge rates.”

Interestingly, while lithium-ion batteries have

been widely used in everything from cars to smartwatches since their invention in 1980, lithium-sulfur batteries were first developed nearly two decades earlier. However, due to issues with their internal chemistry, they have not been widely adopted.

Challenges with Li-S Batteries

Li-S batteries, using sulfur as a cathode and lithium as an anode, struggle with uneven lithium re-deposition during charging, leading to degraded anodes and electrolytes, fewer charge cycles, and increased risk of short circuits or fires.

Monash University’s recent breakthrough could help overcome these challenges, making Li-S batteries suitable for drones and eVTOLs. The researchers have improved battery performance, and with commercial scaling, these batteries could reach up to 400 Wh/kg, ideal for aviation applications that require high discharge rates during takeoff and low rates while cruising.

A Major Step Ahead of Conventional Li-Ion Technology

Li-S batteries offer a major advantage over conventional Li-ion batteries, which have an energy density of 150-235 Wh/kg. A recent ProLogium EV battery with a silicon composite anode reached 321 Wh/kg but

isn’t yet in production.

Quick discharge is essential for eVTOL aircraft, with high power needed for takeoff and landing. This has led Lilium to secure exclusive rights to Ionbox’s silicon-dominant anode technology.

Li-S batteries also reduce reliance on rare resources like cobalt, using abundant sulfur instead.

Monash University has launched Ghove Energy to bring this technology to market. Meanwhile, CATL’s condensed batteries, with 500 Wh/ kg energy density, are being tested in planes and could soon power larger aircraft and private jets for flights up to 1,865 miles, setting a high bar for Li-S batteries.

Patients Successfully Cured of a Rare, Deadly Skin Disease for the First Time

A rare and potentially life-threatening skin condition with devastating effects might finally have a cure.

What begins as a mild rash can quickly escalate, with over 30 percent of the skin blistering and peeling away in sheets. The condition typically starts on the face and chest before spreading to the mouth, eyes, and genitals.

Infections, organ failure, and pneumonia

often follow, and the condition proves fatal in about one-third of cases. Survivors typically face a lengthy recovery process, requiring care similar to that given to burn victims.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

This debilitating condition, known as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), is an immune reaction triggered by certain medications. Although rare, affecting one to two million people worldwide annually, its onset is highly unpredictable.

TEN has been linked to over 200 medications and can affect individuals of all ages and ethnicities. However, it is more common in females and is 100 times more likely to occur in individuals with HIV.

Moreover, an international team of researchers, led by biochemists from the Max Planck Institute in Germany,

claims to have cured seven patients with TEN or its milder variant, Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), without any reported side effects.

“I am beyond proud of this incredible research collaboration that has already helped save multiple lives,” says biomedical researcher Holly Anderton from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Australia. “All seven people treated with this therapy experienced rapid improvement and full recovery—staggering results that likely represent a cure for this condition.”

Life-Saving Treatment

Halts TEN Progression in Critical Patient

One patient, a 59-yearold man, developed TEN on 35 percent of his body after starting lung cancer treatment. His extensive skin loss left him with a nearly 60 percent predicted risk of death. However, after receiving a novel immune inhibi-

tor, his infection stopped progressing. Within 16 days, he was nearly fully healed.

However, the treatment involves a class of drugs called JAK inhibitors (JAKi), which work by suppressing an overactive immune pathway. In fact, using skin samples from TEN patients, scientists identified six proteins in the JAK/STAT pathway that are upregulated in those with the condition, revealing the pathway’s critical role in driving the disease.

The JAK/STAT pathway is a key contributor to skin inflammation, cell damage, and epidermal detachment in toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).

Using rodent models of TEN, researchers observed significant improvements in skin infections just one to three days after administering an oral JAK inhibitor.

Off-Label Use of JAK Inhibitors Shows Promise

in Treating TEN and SJS

“Based on our compelling preclinical data and the urgent need for treatments in this devastating disease, we administered off-label JAK inhibitors to seven patients with TEN or SJS–TEN overlap,” explains the research team, led by biochemist Thierry Nordmann from the Max Planck Institute.

All seven patients responded positively to the treatment and were discharged in good health, setting the stage for future clinical trials.

To conclude, “Even after stopping the medication that triggered the reaction, recovery can take weeks,” says Holly Anderton. “The ability to rapidly halt the progression of this disease, as demonstrated in our study, represents a major improvement in the standard of care for patients facing this life-threatening condition.”

Image Credits: Depositphotos

Leading Decades of Stealth Innovation

Leading Decades of Stealth Innovation

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.

December 19, 2024 at 7:30PM

This performance is 75-90 minutes with no intermission.

Descend 7,000 feet below ground to witness what few have ever seen along with photographer Robbie Shone. For more than two decades, he has traveled to remote regions to illuminate and document the world’s deepest, largest, and longest cave systems. This is the ultimate inside look at the mesmerizing beauty in some of Earth’s last true frontiers of exploration.

Tickets

Term of the Week

“

Ylem

A hypothetical substance from which all elements were formed, used in early cosmological theories.

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

Tuesday, January 14, 2025 7:30pm Capitol Theater $25 - $65

Age Recommendation 6 and up

Meet the Artist Stay after the show for a brief informal Q&A

Rise of T. rex with Paleontologist

Lindsay Zanno

Cars & Gadgets

Sony’s cloud streaming boosts the PlayStation Portal’s usefulness

Sony’s new cloud streaming feature for PlayStation Plus Premium members significantly improves the PlayStation Portal, offering smooth streaming for over 120 PS5 games. It works reliably, with 60 fps in games like Control, and is a solid upgrade from the previous PS5 remote play, which often failed to connect.

However, cloud streaming is limited to the PS Plus Premium library, and digital game streaming isn’t yet available. While it appeals to loyal PlayStation users with strong internet, it doesn’t fix the Portal’s remote play issues, and it’s still not the best option for portable gaming on the go.

Call of Duty: Mobile hits 1 billion downloads

Call of Duty: Mobile has surpassed one billion downloads since its 2019 release, despite Microsoft’s statement suggesting the game may eventually be phased out with the launch of Warzone Mobile. Activision has reassured players that it plans to continue supporting the game with a “robust roadmap” of updates and new content.

The game’s Season 10 — 5th Anniversary update, launching on November 6, will feature a new Battle Royale map and anniversary-themed content such as operator skins and weapon blueprints. Activision has not disclosed when the game might be phased out but remains committed to long-term support.

Chrysler Pacifica EV confirmed with Halcyon concept design

Chrysler’s upcoming electric Pacifica, confirmed by CEO Christine Feuell, will retain the Pacifica name due to its strong market presence. The vehicle is expected to compete with the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, featuring Chrysler’s ‘Stow ‘N Go’ seating system and potentially innovative seating configurations. It is expected to launch around 2027 or 2028, with a price likely exceeding $60,000. The electric Pacifica will be more expensive than the current model, which starts at $42,450. It will offer various powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid with a 16-mile electric range.

What is 8K?

8K TVs, with 7,680 × 4,320 pixels, offer four times the resolution of 4K and 16 times that of Full HD, delivering sharper, more detailed images. A higher PPI, such as 117 on a 75” 8K TV, provides superior pixel density for a more immersive viewing experience.

These TVs also feature AI Upscaling technology, improving lower resolution content to near-8K quality. With leading brands adopting 8K, these TVs represent the pinnacle of current display technology, offering the best possible viewing experience.

Image Credits: Devindra Hardawar for Engadget

Image Credits: Instagram _ vburlapp

Image Credits: Activision

Image Credits: Freepik

Mathematics

Mandelbrot’s fractals are both beautiful and key to modeling the real world

Benoit Mandelbrot’s work on fractal geometry, introduced in his 1982 manifesto, reshaped how scientists model irregular natural phenomena like coastlines and tree branches. His theory applies to diverse fields, from meteorology to computer graphics, offering a new way to study the world beyond Euclidean geometry.

Born in Warsaw in 1924, Mandelbrot’s unconventional path led him to become a prominent figure in mathematics, with his work on fractals earning him widespread recognition. The Mandelbrot set is named after him, symbolizing his transformative contribution to mathematical research.

Why do we assume black holes are spherical?

The idea that black holes are spherical is based on gravity and three-dimensional space. However, theoretical physics suggests that in extra dimensions, black holes might take on different shapes, challenging traditional models and expanding our understanding of the universe.

Recent mathematical research and particle physics explore the possibility of non-spherical black holes, potentially detected in particle accelerators. While still theoretical, these ideas push the boundaries of our cosmic knowledge and could lead to groundbreaking discoveries in the future.

AI designed by mathematicians to predict market interest rates

Researchers from Ateneo de Manila University developed AI deep learning tools to forecast money market interest rates, vital for business and government decisions. Their models, MLP and VGAN, successfully predicted Philippine Benchmark Valuation (BVAL) rates, even during the pandemic, by analyzing economic indicators like inflation and exchange rates.

Strange DNA-like structure in spacetime could signal something shocking

Scientists propose that spacetime could be made of “entangled virtual bosons,” similar to DNA’s double helix. This theory, built on Einstein’s ideas, may unite gravity and electromagnetism. The team, led by Professor Monjo, extended quantum symmetries to gravity, suggesting that these forces could be part of a broader theory. Drawing on Einstein’s 1928 “teleparallel gravity,” the study suggests that gravity might be explained by pairs of virtual bosons. The research may lead to the unification of all fundamental forces, an idea Einstein attempted to achieve but couldn’t complete.

Image Credits: Wikimedia, CC BY-SA

Image Credits: akilasaki_Shutterstock

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University

Quantum Realm

This billion-dollar firm aims to build giant quantum computers using light

Jeremy O’Brien’s PsiQuantum has raised over $1 billion to develop a photonic quantum computer, aiming to outperform classical systems by 2027. The company plans to build a quantum computer with one million qubits, using photons, which are massless and less affected by environmental noise, a unique approach in the field. While there are challenges in generating and interacting with photons, PsiQuantum’s team has developed methods to handle these issues. Experts like Pascale Senellart view the project as a bold and promising venture, though skepticism remains regarding the feasibility of its ambitious goals.

A new metric in quantum physics is a game-changing breakthrough

The V-score, developed by Giuseppe Carleo’s team at EPFL, benchmarks the performance of classical and quantum algorithms by assessing their accuracy in simulating material systems. This dynamic, open-access metric aims to tackle the many-body problem in condensed matter physics, helping identify the most challenging computational issues.

While the V-score offers promising insights, its integration into existing systems is complex. It could drive innovation in quantum computing, but over-reliance on it may limit a broader understanding of material systems and algorithm performance.

Quantum engine, not powered by gas or hydrogen, signals a new era for humanity

Scientists have successfully tested a quantum engine powered by entanglement, marking a significant breakthrough in energy technology. This engine uses lasers to manipulate particles at the quantum level, potentially surpassing the limits of traditional energy generation. The experiment showed that increased entanglement leads to higher mechanical efficiency, suggesting that entanglement could be a viable energy source.

Time-crystal-inspired quantum computing advances technology

Recent breakthroughs in quantum computing, inspired by time crystals, promise to revolutionize computational capabilities. Researchers are focusing on emulating time-crystal behavior to enhance reliability, minimize errors, and improve quantum system stability. The integration of time-crystal features has already shown improved performance in superconducting quantum systems.

Image Credits: PsiQuantum

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: wecb.fm

Image Credits: Pixabay

2021 Hennessey Venom F5

Hennessey have revealed their Venom F5 hypercar is ready for production, packing 1,792 hp and aiming for 311 mph or more. Following on from the original Venom GT, the F5 has been years in development with it’s sight set on competing with the Bugatti Chrion, Koenigsegg Jesko and SSC Tuatara for the road car top speed crown. With a top speed expected to crack 311 mph, the Venom F5 should slot itself right up near the top if they can manage an official run.

Credits: Wsupercars

Biotech & Genetic

“Genetic Time Machine” reveals evidence of cumulative culture in chimpanzees

A study shows that chimpanzee culture is cumulative, spreading through generations via migrating females, who transmit both genes and culture. Using a “genetic time machine,” scientists discovered that cultural traits, such as advanced tool use, spread through social groups, not emerging randomly.

New CRISPR system pauses genes instead of permanently turning them off

A new version of the CRISPR gene-editing tool, developed by Vilnius University researchers, can temporarily pause genes rather than permanently turning them off. This provides greater control over gene activity and reduces risks associated with permanent DNA cuts. The type IV-A CRISPR system, discovered in 2018, works differently from traditional CRISPR systems by continuously interacting with genes without cutting the DNA. The system’s structure was revealed through cryo-electron microscopy, offering new insights into gene regulation.

Ottawa scientist’s discovery offers hope for patients with genetic disease

Michael Rudnicki’s discovery of how Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects muscle stem cells has led to promising new treatment research. His work, now in clinical testing, could dramatically impact the lives of patients if successful. Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disorder affecting 1 in 3,600 boys, causes progressive muscle degeneration and is typically fatal by the age of 30.

Are genetic conditions always passed down from parents?

Meriel McEntagart explains how genetic conditions are inherited or arise, covering patterns like X-linked inheritance, dominant conditions, and reduced penetrance. In some cases, conditions can appear without family history due to genetic variants or imprinting disorders.

Huntington’s disease and Prader-Willi Syndrome illustrate rare genetic occurrences, such as increased repeat sizes or issues with gene expression. For more information on these topics, visit.

Images Credits: Pixabay

Images Credits: Pixabay

Images Credits: Pixabay

Images Credits: JULIE OLIVER _Postmedia

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.”

Wellness

Anmo Tuina at Preidlhof

Anmo Tuina at Preidlhof is a traditional Chinese massage focusing on restoring energy balance and releasing tension. Using acupressure and meridian therapy, therapists employ techniques like kneading and stretching to stimulate circulation and promote healing.

This treatment aligns with Preidlhof’s holistic wellness approach, offering relief from stress and pain while supporting emotional balance. Guests leave sessions feeling re-energized and deeply relaxed, experiencing the perfect fusion of ancient practices and modern care.

Lululemon survey reveals wellbeing burnout is a concern

Lululemon’s 2024 Global Wellbeing Report reveals 89% of people are taking more action to improve their wellbeing, with 45% reporting wellbeing burnout due to societal pressure. Main stressors include unrealistic expectations, conflicting information, and loneliness, while 55% of those feeling pressured are more likely to experience burnout. Encouragingly, movement and community play a positive role, with team sport participants seeing a 14% increase in wellbeing and those connected to their community being 28% more likely to feel purposeful.

A wellness morning in New Cairo with Pilates

Pilates is often portrayed online as an exclusive activity for the energetic and polished, but its true focus is on healing through movement. Whether recovering from an injury or managing stress, everyone can benefit from movement, regardless of how perfect their life may seem. Nour Hassan, a classical Pilates instructor in Egypt, emphasizes healing through movement in her sessions.

Nutritious snack ideas for late-night cravings

These quick, healthy snacks take 15 minutes or less to prepare, including Peanut Butter Yogurt Cup with Magic Shell Topping and Pistachio & Peach Toast. Options like Cottage Cheese Snack Jar with Fruit and Almond-Date Bars provide protein and fiber, while energy balls and cracker bites offer a delicious balance of flavors. For a savory option, try High-Fiber Guacamole Snack Jar or Rice Cake Snackwich. Each snack provides easy, nutritious choices for late-night cravings or a quick snack on the go.

Image Credits: Photographer_ Rachel Marek, Food stylist_ Lauren McAnelly, Prop stylist_ Gabriel Greco

Images Credits: Shutterstock_Jacob Lund

Image Credits: Shutterstock_Jacob Lund

Image Credits: Nour Hassan

Nutrition

The

most underrated vegetable

Cabbage is a versatile and budget-friendly vegetable, perfect for a variety of meals. It’s great raw for crunch in salads and tacos, and when cooked, it shines in dishes like roasted cabbage wedges and stir-fries. Packed with vitamins C and K, and beneficial compounds like anthocyanins and isothiocyanates, cabbage offers numerous health benefits. It’s a must-have vegetable to keep in your fridge!

Enjoy Thanksgiving without skipping dessert

To avoid holiday weight gain, try maintaining balance by bringing healthy dishes to gatherings and practicing mindful eating. Manage cravings by ensuring adequate sleep, reducing stress, and focusing on protein and fiber to stay full longer. Also, stay hydrated to prevent unnecessary snacking and avoid grocery shopping or cooking when hungry to reduce temptations. Limit liquid calories and don’t let others sway your food choices, sticking to what works for you.

Cocoa might reduce the effects of craving fatty foods under stress

A study from the University of Birmingham reveals that cocoa flavanols, particularly epicatechin, help improve vascular function and aid recovery from stress. Participants who consumed a high-epicatechin cocoa drink after a high-fat meal showed quicker recovery in blood vessel dilation, even after stress. While fatty foods worsen stress effects, cocoa’s flavanols may mitigate these impacts by increasing nitric oxide levels, improving blood vessel function.

The top habit to break to lower cholesterol

To lower cholesterol, reduce saturated fat from sources like red meat, full-fat dairy, and fried foods, and replace them with lean proteins and healthier oils. Managing cholesterol also involves increasing fiber, eating more fish, limiting added sugars, and reducing alcohol.

Routine blood work helps track cholesterol levels, and simple changes like cutting saturated fat can have a significant impact on heart health over time.

Image Credits: Photographer_ Fred Hardy, Food Stylist_ Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist_ Julia Bayliss

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Getty Images

Image Credits: Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Fitness

Here’s how doing 100 pull-ups daily for 30 days impacted me

The 30-day pull-up challenge transformed not just my strength but my overall health. I gained improved grip strength, better body composition, and reduced body fat. Mentally, pull-ups built resilience and boosted my confidence, positively impacting other areas of my life.

Beyond physical changes, I noticed improved sleep and digestion. This challenge emphasized the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, showing how consistent exercise can have wide-ranging benefits. Pull-ups taught me that fitness is about consistency and embracing the

AXV vibration exercise machine

Video coaching set to lead the fitness app market

The AXV vibration exercise machine uses full-body vibrations to stimulate muscles, burn fat, and boost metabolism. It combines fitness with rehabilitation by enhancing blood flow, relieving chronic pain, and repairing injuries. Just 10 minutes daily can improve bone density, reduce stress, and increase muscle tone.

With features like adjustable speeds, Bluetooth connectivity, and magnetic health massage, the compact, durable AXV machine is easy to use anywhere. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, it provides effective workouts with resistance bands, a remote control, and premium safety standards for a healthier lifestyle.

The fitness app market is expected to grow by $55.86 billion from 2024 to 2028, driven by trends like AI-powered personalization and video coaching integration. Despite challenges in user engagement, major industry players are adapting by acquiring new platforms and expanding features.

Fitness trackers and machine learning detect bipolar mood swings, researchers say

Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that data from fitness trackers can detect mood episodes in bipolar disorder with high accuracy. Using machine learning, they achieved 80.1% accuracy in identifying depressive symptoms and 89.1% accuracy for manic symptoms, offering a noninvasive method for clinical use. Their next step is to integrate these predictive algorithms into routine care, allowing clinicians to monitor mood episodes between appointments. The team is also exploring the application of this technology for major depressive disorder.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Liza Summer from Pexels

Image Credits: Liza Summer from Pexels

Image Credits: Technavio

Women Health

Breast calcification on mammograms predicts CVD risk in younger wo-

Breast arterial calcification (BAC) seen on mammograms is associated with increased cardiovascular risks, including heart failure, stroke, and myocardial infarction. A study found that BAC was particularly predictive of risk in younger women, who may not be aware of their increased vulnerability to heart disease.

Dr. Lori B. Daniels emphasized the need for further research to integrate BAC into cardiovascular risk assessments and raise awareness in the medical community. Detecting BAC could help identify at-risk women, leading to timely interventions and lifestyle changes to reduce heart disease risks.

“Mental Health and Wellbeing in Women at Risk of Preterm Birth”

Women at risk for preterm birth are prone to mental health challenges due to uncertainties around delivery and poor pregnancy outcomes. This study explored links between mental wellbeing, demographic characteristics, and obstetric risk factors using regression analyses. High BMI initially correlated with anxiety (p=.026), but this became non-significant when obstetric risks were considered. Late miscarriage was associated with anxiety (p=.049), while younger maternal age (p=.019) and non-European ethnic heritage (p=.029) correlated with depression.

Key factors affecting perceived wellbeing included high BMI (p<.001), smoking (p=.002), non-European ethnic heritage (p=.043), and previous spontaneous preterm birth (p=.017). These findings underline the importance of routinely assessing mental health in women at risk of preterm birth.

Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders Linked to Early, Nonobstructive Heart Attacks

Women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) develop coronary artery disease (CAD) earlier, with higher rates of myocardial infarction (MI) linked to both obstructive and nonobstructive arteries. They are, on average, 7 years younger at MI diagnosis than normotensive women. A Mayo Clinic study found HDP associated with complex CAD (SYNTAX score: OR = 2.28) and higher risk of MINOCA (OR = 2.08).

How I Lost 56 Lbs. with Strength Training and Macro Counting

Image Credits: Jodi Echakowitz

Struggling with lifelong weight issues, I cycled through Weight Watchers and Noom with little success. Perimenopause in my late 40s added weight and severe brain fog, which became so debilitating that I feared early-onset Alzheimer’s. My doctor reassured me but emphasized the need for better nutrition to improve both my body and mind.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Men Health

Beer Drinking and Diet: What the Headlines Missed

A recent study found beer drinkers had lower diet quality, less activity, and higher smoking rates than wine or liquor drinkers, though its findings are based on limited data. Participants scored low on the Healthy Eating Index, with beer drinkers scoring 49, wine drinkers 55, and others around 53. These scores reflect broader trends of poor diet quality across the population.

The study suggests demographic factors influence these patterns, with beer drinkers often younger, male, and lower-income. Researchers encourage personalized health advice but note that socioeconomic barriers often play a bigger role than drink choice. As studies like this only highlight associations, individuals should focus on balanced habits and realistic health improvements.

Urinary Pentosidine Indicates Muscle and Performance Health in Young

“Urinary

Pentosidine Indicates Muscle and Performance Health in Young Men”

A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology investigated urinary pentosidine’s role as a biomarker for muscle and bone status in young adult males. Among 32 participants aged 19–39, higher urinary pentosidine levels were linked to lower fat-free mass index, grip strength, and anterior thigh muscle thickness. Marginal correlations were found with functional reach but not with other performance metrics like the TUG or chair stand tests.

Despite limitations such as small sample size and cross-sectional design, the findings suggest urinary pentosidine’s value in assessing musculoskeletal health. The study also emphasizes the potential benefits of reducing advanced glycation end products through diet and exercise to preserve muscle strength and overall performance.

Urologists: Men Lacking Morning Erections Need

The Future of Man and their Health

Experts recommend that men who do not experience morning erections should undergo medical evaluations to assess potential health issues, such as erectile dysfunction or low testosterone. Morning erections are natural occurrences that indicate healthy sexual function and are linked to hormonal fluctuations during sleep. Until recently, there was minimal research on women’s health, with most assuming men and women had similar health needs. However, global advocacy has significantly expanded research in women’s health, revealing critical differences between genders at every level. This focus has also brought attention to men’s health issues, such as the life expectancy gap and higher mortality rates for all major causes of death.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Find out how our minds and bodies are inextricably linked

November 24th

1839 – Hermann von Helmholtz, German physician and physicist, was born. Helmholtz made groundbreaking contributions to the fields of thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and sensory perception, notably formulating the principle of the conservation of energy and working on the understanding of vision and acoustics.

1896 – The first scientific use of X-rays began when Wilhelm Roentgen, who had discovered X-rays in 1895, used them to investigate the interior of a human hand. This marked the beginning of X-ray technology in medicine, revolutionizing diagnostic imaging.

1969 – Apollo 12 astronauts

Charles “Pete” Conrad and Alan L. Bean performed the second successful moonwalk during the Apollo 12 mission. They conducted experiments and collected samples, enhancing our understanding of the Moon’s surface and geology.

1971 – The first use of the Laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) to measure the distance to the Moon. Scientists on Earth used lasers to bounce light off retroreflectors placed on the lunar surface by the Apollo 11 and 14 missions, measuring the distance with unprecedented accuracy.

1995 – The launch of Galileo, NASA’s spacecraft, which was sent to study Jupiter and its moons. Galileo provided detailed images of Jupiter’s atmosphere and its moons, including the discovery of evidence of water vapor on Europa, one of its moons.

November 25th

1742 – The birth of Henry Cavendish, English chemist and phy-

sicist, who is best known for his discovery of hydrogen and for performing the Cavendish Experiment in 1797–1798 to measure the force of gravitational attraction between masses. His work laid foundational principles for the field of gravitational physics. 1876 – The first practical telephone system was demonstrated by Alexander Graham Bell. Bell’s invention revolutionized communication and opened the door for future developments in telecommunications.

1906 – The first discovery of an atomic nucleus, made by Ernest Rutherford, through his groundbreaking gold foil experiment. Rutherford’s work on atomic structure led to the development of nuclear physics and earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1908.

1912 – The first successful use of the radium therapy for cancer treatment began after the discovery of radium by Marie Curie. Radium’s application in medical treatments, particularly for cancer, would play a significant role in the development of radiotherapy.

1993 – The first successful gene therapy was performed by scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles, treating a young girl with a genetic disorder called adenosine deaminase (ADA) deficiency, which causes severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).

November 26th

1867 – The birth of Robert Koch, German physician and microbiologist, whose discoveries revolutionized the understanding of infectious diseases. He is best known for identifying the causative agents of tuberculosis, cholera, and anthrax, and for developing Koch’s postulates,

which remain a foundation of microbiology.

1922 – The first successful use of insulin to treat diabetes was carried out by Frederick Banting and Charles Best at the University of Toronto. This discovery transformed the treatment of diabetes and led to the development of insulin as a life-saving drug.

1945 – The first atomic bomb was tested at the Trinity Test site in New Mexico, USA. This historic event began the atomic age and changed the course of history, both for warfare and for the development of nuclear physics.

1991 – The launch of the Hubble Space Telescope into low Earth orbit, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe. The Hubble Space Telescope captured images that allowed scientists to peer deeper into space, helping to confirm the age of the universe and aiding the study of dark matter and black holes.

November 27th

1851 – The birth of Wilhelm Röntgen, German physicist who discovered X-rays in 1895. His discovery is one of the most significant in the history of medical imaging, laying the groundwork for radiology.

1912 – The first automatic telephone exchange was installed in LaPorte, Indiana, USA. This invention marked the beginning of automated telecommunications, making the manual operation of phone exchanges obsolete.

1947 – The first demonstration of the transistor was given by John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley at Bell Labs. The transistor, a revolutionary invention in electronics, was the building block for modern computing, paving the way for smaller, faster, and more reliable

electronic devices.

1978 – The discovery of the first exoplanet orbiting a pulsar was made by astronomers at the Arecibo Observatory. This marked an important milestone in the search for planets outside our Solar System.

November 28th

1919 – Sir Arthur Eddington confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity through an experiment conducted during a solar eclipse. The bending of starlight by the Sun was observed, which proved Einstein’s prediction and validated the theory of gravity.

1941 – The first successful atomic bomb test was conducted by the Manhattan Project scientists at the Trinity Test Site in New Mexico, USA. This event marked the beginning of the nuclear age and the development of nuclear weapons.

1955 – The first successful heart transplant was performed in the United States by Dr. Norman Shumway. The breakthrough in medical science opened the door for future organ transplantation procedures.

1964 – The launch of Mariner 4 to Mars by NASA. This spacecraft was the first to successfully send back images of the Martian surface, marking a major step forward in the study of Mars.

November 29th

1963 – The birth of Nobel Prize-winning chemist Marie Curie, who became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and the first person ever to win two Nobel Prizes in different scientific fields (Physics in 1903, Chemistry in 1911). Her work with radium and polonium advanced the field of radioactivity and laid the foundation for modern nuclear science.

1974 – The first successful use of the MRI scanner took place, marking the advent of a non-invasive imaging technique that has since revolutionized medical diagnostics. MRI technology has since become an indispensable tool in the study of the human body.

1981 – The birth of the first test-tube baby, Louise Brown, in the United Kingdom. Louise was the first human born through in vitro fertilization (IVF), marking a breakthrough in reproductive medicine.

November 30th

1842 – The birth of Sir George Everest, British surveyor and geographer who served as Surveyor General of India and was instrumental in surveying the meridian arc from the southernmost point of India north to Nepal. The Mount Everest was named in his honor, the highest peak in the world.

1867 – The first patent for the electric light bulb was filed by Thomas Edison. Edison’s invention laid the foundation for the modern electric lighting industry and was one of his most important contributions to electrical engineering.

1914 – The birth of Percy Williams Bridgman, an American physicist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1946 for his work on the physics of high-pressure experiments. His work in material science advanced the understanding of the behavior of matter under extreme conditions.

1955 – The discovery of the electron microscope by Ernst Ruska, a German physicist, earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1986. The electron microscope has allowed scientists to obser-

ve materials at the atomic level, significantly advancing fields like biology, chemistry, and materials science.

1982 – The launch of the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-5), NASA’s first operational space shuttle flight, which carried the first commercial payloads into space, signaling the beginning of the Space Shuttle program’s regular missions.

QATAR AIRWAYS

Start planning your next trip Thinking of travelling somewhere soon? Here are some options to help you get started.

Gerontology & Life Extension

Finding Cells That Send Signals Against Arthritis

This study explores the therapeutic effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) in treating osteoarthritis. ASC-EVs, tested on chondrocytes driven into senescence by DNA damage and inflammation, showed promising results in reducing senescence markers, DNA damage, and inflammatory markers, suggesting a potential senoprotective effect. In a mouse model of osteoarthritis, ASC-EVs significantly improved symptoms, with the treated mice showing osteoarthritis scores comparable to healthy controls. These findings underscore ASC-EVs’ therapeutic potential, and the researchers suggest further clinical investigation, possibly combining EVs from different sources for enhanced efficacy.

Scientist Says Humans Will Reverse Time in 5 Years

The concept of “longevity escape velocity” suggests that advances in life extension technologies could eventually lead to a situation where our life expectancy increases faster than we age. Futurist Ray Kurzweil predicts that humanity could reach this milestone by 2029, citing the rapid pace of medical innovations. However, achieving longevity escape velocity does not guarantee immortality. It depends on advancements in medicine, but other factors like accidents or diseases, including cancer, still pose risks. Furthermore, global access to such technologies remains uncertain, making this prediction more of a possibility than a certainty.

Radical Idea to Speed Up Anti-Aging Research: Test Ovaries, Not Mice

A new study in Nature Aging suggests that aging ovaries could serve as a rapid testing ground for anti-aging drugs. By analyzing ovarian tissue from women of different ages, researchers found that ovarian aging is a fast and measurable process, reflecting broader aging patterns. This method could speed up the testing of geroprotective drugs, making it easier to track their effects in months instead of years. Suh’s team showed that ovarian aging is linked to mTOR signaling, a key aging marker.

Insights and Innovations for Longevity

Humanity has long sought to extend life, with advances in gene therapies, cryogenics, and regenerative medicine now offering promising solutions. The global market for anti-aging therapies is rapidly growing, with longevity-focused research attracting billions in investment. Technologies like stem cell treatments and innovations in biotechnology show potential for tackling age-related diseases and improving health outcomes.

In the Philippines, an aging population is sparking interest in treatments like regenerative medicine and cellular therapies. Experts like Dr. Quincy Raya and Dr. Chadwick Prodromos highlight breakthroughs that could reduce aging’s effects, with advancements in stem cells and AI-based solutions contributing to healthier aging.

Image Credits: Freepik

Image Credits: Paolo Carnassale_Getty Images

Image Credits: Freepik

Image Credits: Freepik

Psychology

The Psychology of Color and Emotions

4

Signs You Have the ‘Mother Wound,’ According to

Psychology Behind Chronic Lateness

Colors influence our emotions in subtle ways. Red often evokes energy and confidence but can also heighten negative feelings, such as anger. Blue, on the other hand, promotes calm and trust but can be linked to sadness.

Yellow stimulates mental clarity but can induce anxiety in excess. Color psychology, though not exact, helps us understand how these hues impact our mental and physiological states. By balancing colors, we can harness their effects to our advantage, whether it’s using blue for calmness in a meeting or red for energy and passion in advertising.

Childhood trauma, particularly stemming from a mother’s emotional neglect, can deeply affect us into adulthood. The “mother wound” refers to the psychological scars that form when a primary caregiver fails to meet emotional needs, whether due to their limitations or external circumstances. This often leads to struggles with self-esteem, emotional regulation, and forming secure relationships. Signs of the mother wound include emotional neglect, lack of empathy, excessive criticism, and suppression of negative emotions. These behaviors, often rooted in cultural or personal factors, can result in long-lasting emotional challenges that affect a person’s sense of self-worth and ability to connect with others. Healing requires breaking these patterns and rewriting one’s emotional story.

6 Signs of a Toxic Daughter-in-Law, According to Psychology

Consistently being late is often due to psychological and social factors, not a lack of interest. Misperceptions of time, such as underestimating how long tasks take, and emotional traits like anxiety or procrastination, can contribute to tardiness. These patterns affect personal and professional relationships and may reflect underlying issues like the “illusion of control” or avoidance of stress-inducing situations. Cultural perceptions also impact how punctuality is viewed, with some cultures valuing strict adherence to time and others being more flexible.

Recognizing toxic behavior in your daughter-in-law can be challenging but essential for maintaining family harmony. Signs such as consistently undermining your relationship with your child, dismissing your feelings, and playing the victim card are common indicators. A lack of empathy, constant criticism, and attempts to control everything further highlight toxic behavior. Addressing these issues early can help prevent emotional strain and set boundaries that foster healthier interactions. While you can’t change her behavior, you can control your responses. Setting clear boundaries and seeking professional guidance can help you navigate this difficult dynamic and restore peace within your family.

Images Credits: Wikimedia Commons, August Macke

Images Credits: Pixabay

Images Credits: Freepik

Images Credits: Freepik

Archeology

4,000-Year-Old Fishing

Canals Found, Predecessors of Mayans

Archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old canal network in Belize using drones and Google Earth imagery. These canals, designed for fishing, were built by semi-nomadic people and used for about 1,000 years before Maya civilization emerged.

This study highlights a link between early fish-trapping innovations and later Maya cultural achievements. The canals supported population growth and dietary diversity, forming a foundation for the eventual rise of Maya society, with its iconic temples, pyramids, and advanced systems.

Amulet Ties Solomon to Demon-Slaying

A fifth-century CE bronze amulet found in Turkey depicts King Solomon defeating demons, potentially affirming biblical traditions of his supernatural powers. The artifact, discovered in Hadrianopolis, bears the Greek phrase, “Our Lord defeated the devil,” and aligns with the “Testament of Solomon,” which describes him using a magical ring from Archangel Michael to command demons. The amulet’s Christian origins are reflected in angelic names inscribed on its reverse. Found in a Roman military context, it underscores Solomon’s protective symbolism for soldiers and Hadrianopolis’s significance as a religious and strategic hub in antiquity.

Oldest Synagogue Outside Israel Discovered

Archaeologists in Phanagoria, southwest Russia, uncovered the oldest synagogue outside Israel, revealing a vibrant Jewish community. Excavations unearthed a prayer hall, a mikveh, and artifacts like marble menorahs and a Greek-inscribed tablet reading “synagogue.” These findings reflect a blend of preserved traditions and local adaptation.

Image Credits: Institute of Archeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Egyptian-German Team Uncovers Ptolemaic Temple in Sohag

A joint Egyptian-German mission discovered a Ptolemaic temple in Sohag, featuring two 24-meter-wide towers separated by a gate. Reliefs on the gate depict King Ptolemy VIII, the lion-headed goddess Rabit, and Koulentis, her child. The structure’s original height likely reached 18 meters, akin to the Luxor Temple.

Image Credits: egyptianstreets.com

Images Credits: AP via nypost.com

Image Credits: Haim Goldberg_Flash90

Space

Exploration & Cosmology

Axions: Weakly Interacting Particles Linked to Dark Matter

Image Credits: ©Collaboration MPIK_H.E.S.S.

IU Bloomington physicists, led by W.M. Snow, conducted groundbreaking nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments with xenon isotopes 129Xe and 131Xe to detect weakly interacting sub-electron volt particles (WISPs), including the hypothetical axion linked to dark matter. Their findings, in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and the University of Wisconsin, provide unprecedented sensitivity for detecting axion-induced forces.

Supernovae May Unlock Dark Matter Mysteries

The University of California, Berkeley, has proposed using the next nearby supernova to detect axions, particles linked to dark matter. These particles, hypothesized since the 1970s, may reveal their presence through gamma rays generated by interactions with magnetic fields during stellar explosions. Updated simulations of Supernova 1987A suggest axion signals could be within reach of current or future gamma-ray telescopes like Fermi.

To capitalize on this rare chance, researchers proposed GALAXIS, a gamma-ray telescope network providing full-sky coverage. Detecting axions could redefine physics, offering groundbreaking insights into dark matter and quantum chromodynamics, paving the way for deeper exploration of the universe’s mysteries.

Image Credits: ASU-Olvera_Dooling

Cosmic Clues: Metal-Poor Regions and Galaxy Growth

Astronomers have uncovered crucial evidence linking metal-poor gas inflows to galaxy evolution, focusing on the spiral galaxy NGC 99. A team led by Alejandro Olvera from Arizona State University found regions with unexpectedly low metal levels, suggesting that incoming gas reshapes galaxy structure and fuels star formation. This breakthrough confirms long-standing theories about galaxy growth.

Einstein Vindicated: Cosmic Map Confirms Gravity Theory

Einstein’s gravity predictions were confirmed using DESI, which mapped nearly six million galaxies across 11 billion years. The findings uphold General Relativity at cosmic scales, offering crucial insights into gravity’s role in shaping the universe. By testing modified gravity theories, researchers reinforced the standard gravity model while examining dark energy’s mysteries.

DESI’s advanced technology also helped set new limits on neutrino mass, linking their subtle effects to galaxy clustering.

Image Credits: SciTechDaily.com

Image Credits: Pixabay

The Expansion of the Universe

Have you ever felt like you’re not getting enough space in the world?

Maybe you’re in a crowded subway, or your living room feels like it’s shrinking with all the clutter. Now imagine the entire universe doing exactly the opposite: expanding, getting bigger and bigger. It’s like the universe is constantly stretching its arms out, as if saying, “No, no, I’ve got plenty of room for everyone!” Sounds a bit mind-boggling, right?

Welcome to the fascinating world of the expansion of the universe—a concept that’s both perplexing and awe-inspiring.

So, what exactly is happening when we say the universe is expanding? Well, the short answer is that it’s getting larger, but the long answer requires us to dive into a deep (and pretty mind-blowing) understanding of cosmology, physics, and the very nature of space itself.

Let’s take a closer look at this cosmic mystery that has scientists both scratching their heads and shaking their fists in wonder.

What Is the Expansion of the Universe?

Imagine you’re sitting

on a balloon, and you start blowing air into it. As the balloon inflates, the surface stretches, and any point on the surface gets farther away from all the others. This is essentially how the universe is expanding. But here’s the twist: the expansion is happening not within the universe itself (because we’re part of it!), but rather space itself is stretching, carrying everything along for the ride. The distance between objects like galaxies is increasing over time, but the galaxies themselves aren’t moving through space—instead, space is expanding.

This mind-bending concept was first suggested by Edwin Hubble in 1929, when he observed that galaxies are moving away from us, and the farther they are, the faster they’re receding. This phenomenon is known as the Hubble Law, and it’s the key to understanding the expansion of the universe.

How Do We Know the Universe Is Expanding?

You might be thinking, “Okay, that’s all great, but how do we know this isn’t just some wacky theory cooked up by astronomers?” Fair question! The answer lies in redshift. When we look at distant galaxies, we notice that their light is shifted towards the red end of the spectrum. This is called redshift, and it happens because the light waves are stretched as the ga-

laxies move away from us. It’s like the sound of a passing ambulance, which lowers in pitch as it drives away—a phenomenon known as the Doppler effect. The farther away a galaxy is, the more its light is stretched out, and the more redshifted it appears.

Now, this doesn’t mean that galaxies are literally speeding away from us (although they are). What’s happening is that space itself is expanding, stretching the wavelengths of the light as they travel across the universe. The farther the galaxy, the more stretched its light, and the faster it appears to be moving. This observation supports the idea that the universe itself is expanding.

Surprising and Intriguing Aspects of the Expansion

The Universe Was Once Really Small (and Hot!)

Hold onto your seat: if we rewind time back to the very beginning, the universe wasn’t just smaller—it was extremely hot and dense. In fact, the universe started as a tiny, infinitely dense point, often referred to as a singularity. This singularity expanded rapidly in an event called the Big Bang about 13.8 billion years ago. The universe was so small that it could fit in the palm of your hand (if, you know, the entire universe could actually fit in your hand). Since then, space has been stret-

ching out, cooling down, and giving rise to everything we see today. But here’s the twist: space itself is still expanding, even though the universe has been around for billions of years!

It’s Not Just Galaxies That Are Moving Apart

When we think of things moving apart, we often imagine objects physically moving through space. But in the case of the universe’s expansion, the galaxies aren’t moving through space—they’re being carried apart as space itself expands. Think of it like dough rising in an oven: you place little raisin-like bits of dough on it, and as the dough expands, the raisins get farther apart, even though they’re not moving through the dough. This concept is often called metric expansion, and it’s one of the more perplexing ideas in cosmology. It’s not just that the galaxies are speeding away from us; it’s that space itself is increasing in size.

The Expanding Universe Is Accelerating

You might think that over time, gravity should slow down the expansion of the universe, right? After all, gravity pulls things together, so why wouldn’t it slow down the stretching of space itself? Well, it turns out that the universe isn’t just expanding at a steady pace—it’s actually accelerating! In 1998,

astronomers discovered that the rate of expansion has been speeding up, not slowing down, thanks to a mysterious force called dark energy. Dark energy makes up about 68% of the universe, and we have no idea exactly what it is. But its effect is clear: it’s

pushing galaxies apart at an accelerating rate, and it’s one of the biggest mysteries in modern physics.

There’s No “Edge” to the Universe

Here’s a fun fact: the universe doesn’t have an edge. The expansion of the universe isn’t like an explosion that happens in all directions from a single point—it’s more like the surface of an expanding balloon. The more you stretch the balloon, the more the points on its surface get farther apart. If you were a two-dimensional being living on the surface of the balloon, you wouldn’t know there was an “edge” to the balloon—it just keeps expanding. In the same way, the universe doesn’t have a traditional edge; instead, space itself is stretching in all directions. So, when we say the universe is expanding, we mean that space itself is getting larger, and there’s no center or boundary to it.

The Universe Might Eventually Stop Expanding (or Keep Going Forever)

The fate of the universe is one of the biggest questions in cosmology. Will the expansion of the universe eventually slow down and reverse, causing everything to collapse in a “Big Crunch”? Or will the universe continue expanding forever, getting colder and more distant over time, in a scenario known as

the Big Freeze? Given the accelerating expansion caused by dark energy, it looks like the universe will keep expanding indefinitely. However, the details of this cosmic future are still very much up in the air, and scientists continue to study how dark energy and other factors will influence the long-term evolution of the universe.

The Observable Universe Is Finite, But Expanding Although the universe itself may be infinite, the part we can see—our observable universe—is finite. This is because light from the farthest parts of the universe hasn’t had enough time to reach us yet, given the finite speed of light. The more the universe expands, the farther away things become, and some objects may eventually move beyond the reach of our telescopes. In fact, there are galaxies so far away that their light is redshifted beyond the point where we can detect it with current technology, meaning they are effectively beyond our observational horizon. So, as the universe expands, we’re losing touch with parts of it, and our view of the cosmos is becoming smaller, not bigger!

Why Does the Expansion of the Universe Matter?

The expansion of the universe is a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding the origins,

structure, and ultimate fate of the cosmos. It helps us answer some of the most fundamental questions: How did the universe begin? What is the universe made of? What forces shape its evolution?

It’s also a key part of our exploration of dark energy, dark matter, and the fundamental laws of physics. And the more we learn about the expansion of the universe, the more we uncover about the mysteries of space-time, gravity, and the forces that govern everything in existence. The expansion of the universe is a reminder that the cosmos is far from static—it’s a dynamic, ever-changing entity that is still revealing its secrets to us.

Conclusion: Space, The Final Frontier (That’s Getting Bigger Every Day) So, next time you feel like you’re running out of space in your life, just remember: the universe is still expanding, and it’s got room for all of us— galaxies, stars, planets, and even a few rogue asteroids. The universe is getting bigger every day, and who knows what we’ll discover as it continues to stretch out into the vast unknown.

As always, stay curious, keep looking up at the stars, and remember: the universe is getting bigger—whether we understand it fully or not. And isn’t that kind of awesome?

Engineering, Robotics & IT

Huawei AI Chips Drive China’s Next-Gen Surgical Tech

The Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) has launched Cares Copilot 2.0, an AI model for surgical applications, powered by Huawei’s Ascend 910B chip. This collaboration reflects Huawei’s progress in AI technology, as its chips now rival Nvidia’s A100 despite US export restrictions. Cares Copilot 2.0 uses Meta’s Llama 2 model and is deployed in hospitals in Guangzhou and Hong Kong.

Huawei’s forthcoming Ascend 910C chip, expected by 2025, highlights its role in China’s semiconductor self-reliance efforts. While production challenges persist, Huawei’s AI advancements address critical gaps left by US sanctions, cementing its position at the forefront of China’s AI and chip development race.

Image Credits: Freepik

Hyundai recalls 145,000+ electric vehicles for power

Image Credits: Hyundai

Hyundai is recalling over 145,000 electric vehicles, including certain Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and Genesis models, due to a charging issue that could cause power loss while driving. The recall, announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, may increase crash risks. Affected vehicle owners will receive notifications on January 17 and are encouraged to visit local Hyundai dealerships for free inspections and repairs.

Fixing Medical App Errors with Mathematical Rigor

Image Credits: GoogleWang

NJIT researchers uncovered critical mathematical errors in medical apps widely used in clinical settings. These issues, stemming from flawed medical literature and poor app implementation, impact calculators like HEART, PAS, and SOFA scores. Using automated theorem proving, the team identified significant flaws in 14 out of 90 Android apps and expects similar errors in other platforms.

Microsoft Outlook and Teams Suffer Major Outage

Image Credits: Pixabay

Microsoft’s Outlook and Teams apps are facing a major outage, affecting users’ ability to access emails and use calendar functions. The issue began in Europe during the workday, with users unable to communicate or manage schedules effectively. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is investigating issues with Exchange Online and Teams calendar functions. Some parts of the services remain functional, though attachments may not load.

Parenting & Relationship

Understanding the Impact of Parenting Styles and Family Dynamics on Children’s Aggressive Behavior

Children’s mental health and behavior are crucial to society, especially because aggressive behaviors, like bullying, can lead to long-term problems. These behaviors affect both the children who are aggressive and their victims. Aggressors might develop into adults who engage in crime, while victims can suffer from issues like depression and loneliness.

Greenlandic Mother’s Heartbreaking Struggle:

Keira Alexandra Kronvold, a Greenlandic mother in Denmark, lost custody of her newborn after failing a controversial “parenting competency test” in Danish, despite her first language being Kalaallisut. Critics argue the test discriminates against Greenlandic parents, overlooking cultural and linguistic differences.

Image Credits: LISELOTTE SABROE_Getty Images

Parenting Generation Z: Balancing Communica-

A survey from the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup highlights key dynamics of raising Generation Z, showing that parents’ emotional states directly affect their children’s mental well-being. Stress, anxiety, and sadness among parents often mirror similar emotions in their Gen Z children. The study also emphasizes the need for open communication. While parents find it difficult to discuss sensitive topics like mental health and social media, 90% of Gen Z children value these conversations.

Momming and Money-Making: The Ultimate Balancing Act!

Working mothers face complex challenges, with guilt often exacerbated by unrealistic societal expectations. This guilt hampers their career progress, well-being, and productivity. In countries like India, where women’s participation in the workforce is essential for economic growth, addressing this issue is critical for retaining working mothers.

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: Pixabay

Investiments & Finanace

Wedbush Analysts Bullish on AI Software Stocks

Wedbush analysts are increasingly bullish on software stocks like Palantir Technologies, Snowflake, Elastic, and Salesforce, noting the expanding role of AI in their growth. They raised Palantir’s price target to $75, citing its “game-changing” AI platform and future potential. Snowflake and Elastic were upgraded to Outperform, while Salesforce’s price target was boosted to $375 due to strong customer feedback.

The AI software era is accelerating, with large language models and generative AI driving new use cases. Analysts expect Snowflake, Elastic, and Salesforce to benefit in the coming 12-18 months, with Elastic’s stock showing potential for a 25% rise based on new targets.

4 must-listen investing podcasts for all investors

Podcasts have become an essential tool for investors, offering on-demand content to tailor knowledge and insights. Four top recommendations include Money Life with Chuck Jaffe for fresh, varied content; Investing Experts Podcast from Seeking Alpha for professional analysis; Animal Spirits Podcast for approachable financial discussions; and On The Tape Podcast for advanced market insights from Wall Street veterans.

Podcasting is no longer a fad but an efficient, cost-effective way for investors to stay informed. With diverse options available, it’s easy to find content that aligns with individual needs and interests, making it ideal for consumption on the go.

Appcharge raises $26M to help gaming apps bypass Apple and Google revenue

Appcharge, a startup offering game developers an alternative to app stores for monetizing in-game purchases, has raised $26 million. The platform enables publishers to build custom e-commerce sites for virtual goods, bypassing traditional app store intermediaries. This solution helps developers control user relationships and streamline purchases, challenging the dominance of companies like Apple and Google.

Morningstar’s 4 investment ideas for 2025

Morningstar’s 2025 outlook predicts a shift from 2024’s environment, with opportunities and risks shaped by declining inflation, interest rates, and AI spending. U.S. stocks are expected to generate low returns, while international markets like Korea, China, and Brazil are anticipated to offer better opportunities. Multi-asset strategies, such as combining bonds and equities, may provide attractive risk-adjusted returns.

Images Credits: Pixabay

Image Credits: FIDELITY BANK

Image Credits: Appcharge

Images Credits: Pixabay

Retirement

The psychology of retirement income

Many retirees struggle with spending during retirement, often due to relying on personal savings instead of guaranteed income sources like Social Security or pensions. This challenge stems from psychological factors such as present bias and loss aversion, which make retirees more cautious with their money, fearing future shortages.

To manage retirement spending, retirees should track their expenses and evaluate their financial situation. Those with guaranteed income sources are more likely to spend, but even those without can benefit from reframing their retirement income as a steady paycheck to enjoy a fulfilling, well-spent retirement.

Five costly retirement mistakes to avoid in your 40s

As you enter your 40s, planning for retirement becomes more urgent. Avoid common mistakes like trying to time the market, letting lifestyle creep drain your savings, or neglecting to consult a financial planner. Instead, adopt safer investment strategies and focus on balancing your lifestyle and savings.

It’s also essential to avoid putting too much money into real estate or overextending yourself with family responsibilities. Prioritize your financial future and seek professional advice to ensure you can both support loved ones and secure a comfortable retirement.

KiwiSaver provider advises saving a minimum of $1 million for retirement

Experts recommend aiming for at least $1 million for retirement, depending on lifestyle, with some studies suggesting between 70% and 100% of pre-retirement income is needed. For example, a person earning $120,000 today would need $1.1 million to $1.8 million in savings for a comfortable retirement, with NZ Super providing supplementary income.

Why my client’s decision to keep his home in retirement was his smartest money move

Homeowners have the option to downsize for retirement, but it’s not for everyone. Stephen Roth of Limestone Financial Group explains that personalized planning is essential for achieving retirement goals, whether through downsizing or maintaining a current lifestyle.

For one of Roth’s clients, staying in his home provided both financial security and lifestyle benefits. By not selling, he retained an asset that could appreciate, while also benefiting from tax advantages related to his estate planning.

Image Credits: iStock-950996172

Image Credits: Charles Krupa _THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Image Credits: Sean SerFF79_Shutterstock

Image Credits: RNZ

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

A soldier wakes up in someone else’s body and discovers he’s part of an experimental government program to find the bomber of a commuter train within 8 minutes.

EMPLOYMENT, CONFERENCES & WEBNARS

Conferences & Webnars

25 Years of Science with Chandra 03 Dec 2024 - 06 Dec 2024 • Boston, United States

245th AAS Meeting 245th meeting of the American Astronomical Society 12 Jan 2025 - 16 Jan 2025 • National Harbor, MD , United States

Generalized Symmetries: High-Energy, Condensed Matter and Mathematics

07 Apr 2025 - 10 Apr 2025 • Santa Barbara, United States

Jobs

Revenue Growth Manager

Chief Operating Officer

General Manager - Jamie Wilson Productions

Fundraising Officer

Recommendations

Extra Reading

DNA Analysis Reveals Identifies the Genetic Makeup of Piceni the Most Fascinating Civilizations of Pre-Roman Italy

You’re made of energy: The strange truth about where mass comes from

Synthetic Dimension Breakthrough Propels Quantum Tech to New Heights

Videos

From the renowned theoretical physicist and national bestselling author of The God Equation comes the first book-length exploration of the most exciting development in modern physics: the theory of 10-dimensional space.

“Among the best of its genre to appear in recent years...What a wonderful adventure it is, trying to think the unthinkable!” —The New York Times Book Review

The theory of hyperspace, which Michio Kaku pioneered, may be the leading candidate for the Theory of Everything that Einstein spent the remaining years of his life searching for.

Buy now

COP29 $300B-a-year climate deal “a slap in the face” to nations hit by climate change

I Tried Real Augmented Reality Glasses!

How to become 37.78 times better at anything | Atomic Habits summary (by James Clear)

Teen Mathematicians Tie Knots Through a Mind-Blowing Fractal

TECHNICAL DATA

Technical Data Sheet

Property: SCITKE LLC

Telephone: +244 957906038

General Inquery: info@scitke.com

Business Inquery: business@scitke.com

Chief Editor: Marcílio M. dos Santos

Chef Graphic Designer: Salomão André

Assistant Designers: Leandro Conceição, Valeriano Ndeyi

Content Manager: Jorge Paka

Writing Contributors:

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

Periodicity: Weekly