INSIDE
TWIS SCIENCE THIS WEEK IN
The Amazing Biology of Bats
DIVE AND FIND
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Early Peanut Exposure Slashes Allergy Risks by 71%
Watch Live: EarthCARE Satellite Reveals Cloud Secrets
Wheat gene discovery might lead to higher yields and climate change resilience
Protein-Fortified Microalgae Gets a Nutritional Lift from an Unexpected Source
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This Week in Science
Biology
The Fascinating Biology of Bats
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of similar size. Disease Resistance Bats are reservoirs for many serious viruses like Hendra virus, Ebola, and SARS-CoV-2. Despite carrying these deadly pathogens, bats seldom suffer from the diseases themselves. Even rabies, usually fatal if untreated in other mammals, often does not kill bats. Their ability to live healthy lives while hosting dangerous viruses adds a layer of intrigue to vampire legends.
Bats possess extraordinary biological traits that enable them to thrive in ways that seem almost impossible for other mammals. Their rapid heart rates during flight and their impressive longevity challenge common mammalian biology assumptions. Insights into these traits could potentially extend human health and lifespan.
Lifespan and Aging Contrary to the trend where larger mammals live longer, bats, despite their small size, can live up to 41 years. This defies the rate of living theory, which links slower metabolisms to slower cellular damage accumulation. Evolutionarily, larger animals often have fewer predators, allowing them to invest more in fewer offspring over longer periods. Bats, however, manage remarkable longevity despite their small size.
Bats in Flight During flight, bats’ bodies enter a state of intense hyperactivity. Their wings can flap up to 15 times per second, and their heart rates can exceed 1,000 beats per minute, raising their core body temperature to about 41°C. This level of exertion and temperature would normally cause severe metabolic damage in most mammals, yet bats not only survive but also live significantly longer than other animals
Cellular Resilience Bats show negligible senescence, exhibiting minimal aging signs. This resilience is partly due to their cells’ ability to prevent damaged cells from reproducing and becoming cancerous. Unlike humans, who accumulate “zombie cells” that cause inflammation and age-related diseases, bats seem to avoid these issues, contributing to their longer, healthier lives.
Image credit: unsplash.com, James Wainscoat
Flight as Fever The “flight as fever” theory suggests that the high body temperatures bats reach during flight act as a natural defense against infections by effectively “cooking” pathogens. However, some research indicates that bats’ ability to handle high viral loads is also due to their unique immune system. Unique Immune System Bats possess an immune system that is always active, continuously producing antiviral components that humans only generate in response to infections. This makes their immune responses more effective and less prone to overreaction, unlike humans who can suffer severe damage from conditions like cytokine storms due to overactive immune responses. Human Health Implications Researchers are studying bats’ unique biological traits to apply them to human medicine. Gene silencing therapies, inspired by bats, aim to reduce harmful inflammation in patients with acute diseases without weakening the overall immune system. Such therapies could offer new treatments for conditions like sepsis or liver disease. Conservation Efforts Despite their valuable insights, bat populations are threatened, especially by habitat loss. Protecting their habitats is crucial for both preserving these fascinating creatures and
continuing to learn from their unique biology. Organizations like Planet Wild work to restore ecosystems and protect wildlife, including bats, through various innovative projects. Remarkable Mammals Bats are remarkable mammals with unique adaptations that allow them to live long, healthy lives while carrying viruses deadly to other species. Understanding and potentially replicating these traits could revolutionize human health and longevity. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure bats continue to thrive and contribute to scientific knowledge. Studying bats can help us better manage diseases and improve our own health, making these incredible creatures even more valuable to us and the ecosystem. Image credit: unsplash.com, David Clode
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This Week in Science
Healthcare
Early Peanut Exposure Slashes Allergy Risks by 71%
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against peanut allergies. This simple yet effective measure could dramatically reduce peanut allergy rates in future generations. Professor Gideon Lack, the lead researcher from King’s College London, remarked that past recommendations against early peanut introduction had caused unnecessary fear among parents.
Image credit: unsplash.com, Ashton Huang
A comprehensive study from King’s College London has revealed that introducing peanuts into infants’ diets as early as four months significantly reduces the likelihood of developing a peanut allergy during adolescence. The study demonstrated that early and consistent peanut consumption lowers the allergy risk by 71% compared to avoiding peanuts. Children who consumed peanuts regularly from infancy until age five experienced a 71% reduction in peanut allergy rates during their teenage years, despite varying peanut consumption afterward. Strong Evidence for Early Peanut Introduction The study provides solid evidence that early peanut introduction fosters long-term tolerance and protects
Long-Term Benefits of Early Peanut Introduction The research underscores that early peanut exposure promotes lasting tolerance, significantly reducing allergy rates well into adolescence. This intervention is expected to greatly diminish peanut allergies in future generations. The results of the LEAP-Trio trial, published today (May 27) in NEJM Evidence, were conducted by King’s College London researchers with support from the US National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Rising Peanut Allergy Rates and Conflicting Advice With peanut allergies affecting about 2% of young children in North America, the UK, Western Europe, and Australia, even trace amounts of peanuts can provoke severe reactions. Mixed messages on peanut introduction have led to hesitancy among parents and caregivers.
The LEAP-Trio study builds on the Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP) trial, which found that early peanut introduction significantly cuts allergy risk.
mending that peanuts be introduced as a soft pureed paste or peanut puffs once infants are ready for weaning. The study noted that while children who ate peanuts early consumed more peanuts overall, the protective effect remained even with varied peanut consumption patterns.
Key Findings from the LEAP Study In the LEAP study, participants were divided into two groups: one introduced peanuts early and the other avoided them. The early introduction Assessing Peanut Allergy in group saw an 81% reduction in peanut Adolescents allergy risk by age five. To assess peanut allergies in adolescents, the LEAP-Trio study employed By age 12, 15.4% of those who avoided oral food challenges, where participeanuts developed an allergy, compa- pants gradually consumed increasing red to only 4.4% of those who conamounts of peanuts in a controlled sumed peanuts early on, indicating setting. The team also surveyed a 71% reduction in allergy risk from recent peanut consumption and early peanut exposure. checked peanut residue in bed dust, confirming self-reported data. Safe and Effective Introduction Methods Professor Lack, head of the Children’s Professor George Du Toit, Co-Lead Allergy Service at Guy’s and St ThoInvestigator, confirmed the safety and mas’ NHS Foundation Trust, highlighefficiency of this intervention, recom- ted that early peanut consumption mending that peanuts be introduced could potentially prevent over 100,000
Image credit: unsplash.com, Vladislav Nikonov Page. 3
This Week in Science
Healthcare, Astronomy, Earth Science Unveiling Cloud Secrets
Earth Science
“EarthCARE: Joint ESA-JAXA Project Launching May 28th”
Introducing ‘Hakuryu‘ – The White Dragon of EarthCARE
This project, a collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), is set for launch on May 28th.
Protein-Fortified Microalgae Gets a Nutritional Lift from an Unexpected Source
Following the Japanese tradition of satellite nicknames, JAXA has named EarthCARE ‘Hakuryu,’ meaning ‘White Dragon,’ symbolizing its white exterior In the quest for sustainable protein alternatives to traditional livestock, and solar panel resembling a tail. insects and microalgae are emerging as strong candidates. Scientists have The name is particularly apt since now developed a method that uses 2024 is the Japanese Year of the Drainsect waste to nourish microalgae. gon (tatsu-doshi), adding an auspicious element to the mission. The United Nations’ Food and Agricultural Organization reports that Scientists will leverage data from EarthCARE to explore the interactions meat production is responsible for about 14.5% of global greenhouse gas between clouds, aerosols, and radiation, resulting in more precise climate emissions, primarily methane, ammonia, and carbon dioxide, which come models and forecasts. from cattle burps, livestock feed fertilizers, and manure decomposition. EarthCARE: A Collaborative Effort Between ESA and JAXA Additionally, vast forest areas are frequently cleared for pasturelands The satellite, also known as ‘White Dragon,’ will be launched by a SpaceX or feed crop cultivation, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions. Trees capFalcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg ture carbon dioxide, but when they Space Force Base in California at are cut down, they release this stored 00:20 CEST on May 28th. The official live broadcast can be viewed on ESA’s gas.
Astronomy
Watch Live: EarthCARE Satellite to Unveil Cloud Mysteries Clouds remain a poorly understood element of our atmosphere. The upcoming launch of the EarthCARE satellite, equipped with cutting-edge technology, aims to shed light on their complexities, thereby enhancing climate prediction accuracy. While cloud formation is generally
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Outfitted with sophisticated instruments such as lidar and radar, EarthCARE will deepen our knowledge of how clouds influence the Earth’s
The EarthCARE satellite will unravel the mysteries of clouds using advanced tech, ESA
understood, the detailed interplay between clouds and the aerosols essential for their formation is still a mystery. EarthCARE, short for Earth Cloud Aerosol and Radiation Explorer, seeks to provide crucial insights.
atmospheric heating and cooling processes. A video below explains how clouds impact our climate and the advanced technology EarthCARE will use for data collection.
EarthCARE is a joint venture between ESA and JAXA, who’ve nicknamed the satellite ‘White Dragon’, ESA
Environmental Impact of Deforestation Deforestation disrupts habitats and causes soil erosion, leading to sediment build-up in nearby water bodies. Farmed insects present a solution. Page. 4
This Week in Science
Healthcare
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Columns of Chlorella vulgaris microalgae, some grown with frass-based fertilizer NORCE The addition of frass fertilizer to the liquid medium for growing Chlorella vulgaris microalgae resulted in growth rates comparable to those achieved with conventional chemical fertilizers. The protein production in frass-fed algae remained at about 40% of their dry weight.
Scientists have been fertilizing microalgae “crops” with feces from farmed mealworms DALL-E
They are rich in protein, minerals, and fatty acids and can be reared in smaller spaces compared to cattle pastures. Insects require much less food and water than traditional livestock and produce less waste. However, insects still generate some waste, known as frass, which consists of excrement and shed exoskeletons. Already used as plant fertilizer, researchers from Norway’s University of Bergen and the Norwegian Research Centre (NORCE) are now using frass to fertilize microalgae. Frass powder before liquefaction NORCE Despite the tiny size of individual
Image credit: pexels.com
However, the researchers note that this experiment is preliminary and further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of frass fertilizer on a commercial scale. They also emphasize the need to find a use for the non-soluble particles extracted from the frass, which are currently waste.
microalgae cells, large-scale cultivation can produce a substantial protein yield. This protein can enhance the nutritional value of various foods, including meat substitutes. Additionally, oils from microalgae can be used in biofuel production.
Different versions of the frass-fertilized growth media used in the study NORCE The research, led by NORCE’s Pia Steinrücken, was recently published in the journal Bioresource Technology Reports.
Using Frass Fertilizer for Microalgae Growth In a recently funded EU study, scientists used powdered frass from Larveriet, a Norwegian company that breeds mealworm larvae for food. They mixed the powder with water to extract nutrients, then centrifuged the mixture to remove insoluble particles and sterilized it to kill harmful bacteria.
The Amazing Health Benefits of Planking Planking might look simple, but maintaining a rigid position for 30 seconds or more can be quite challenging. Nonetheless, the effort is well worth it, as planks offer numerous health benefits. Here’s why you should include this exercise in your
routine: Enhanced Balance Planking engages multiple muscle groups to stabilize your body. Balancing on your forearms or hands and toes requires maintaining a straight line from head to heels. Regular practice significantly improves balance by strengthening the core muscles responsible for stability. Increased Flexibility Holding a plank stretches and lengthens the hamstrings, as well as the Page. 5
This Week in Science
Fitness, Healthcare
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posture prevents discomfort and enhances overall well-being. In summary, planks are a powerful exercise with amazing health benefits. Incorporate them into your fitness routine to enjoy these advantages. Start with shorter durations and gradually increase the time as your strength improves. Happy planking!
In summary, planks are a powerful exercise with amazing health benefits. Incorporate them into your fitness routine to enjoy these advantages. Start with shorter durations and gradually increase the time as your strength improves. Happy planking! arches and balls of your feet. This dynamic stretching improves your overall range of motion. Over time, you’ll notice increased flexibility and better joint mobility. Injury Prevention A stable core is crucial for preventing injuries. Planks activate deep abdominal muscles, obliques, and lower back muscles. A strong core efficiently transfers force from your torso to your limbs, reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and other common injuries.
goodhousekeeping.com, MIKE GARTEN
Recent research from Curtin University unveils that capturing images of food serves a purpose beyond social media content—it may hold the key to enhancing dietary habits.
Reduced Lower Back Pain Poor posture and a weak core often contribute to lower back pain. A weak core causes other muscles to compensate, straining the lower back. Regular planking strengthens the core, alleviating stress on surrounding muscles and promoting a healthier spine. Improved Posture Core muscles are essential for supporting your spine. Practicing planks strengthens these muscles, helping you maintain proper posture. Good
Study Suggests Food Photography Could Benefit Health
In the feeding trial, researchers assessed meal weights, which were subsequently distributed to participants throughout a day, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Image credit: freepik.com
The study, titled “Accuracy of energy and nutrient intake estimation versus observed intake using four techPage. 6
This Week in Science
Healthcare
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derway to streamline this process. The team is collaborating with Purdue University in the US to implement artificial intelligence for automatic food analysis from photos.
nology-assisted dietary assessment methods: a randomized crossover feeding study,” appeared in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Assessing Technology-Based Methods for Dietary Recall Participants evaluated various technology-based approaches to recollect their dietary intake from the preceding 24 hours. One approach involved participants using the Food Record app on their mobile devices to capture images of their meals.
Subsequently, a research dietitian analyzed these meal photos.
we document dietary habits across populations.
The study revealed significantly greater accuracy in nutritional intake among participants who had taken photos of their meals compared to those who relied on memory recall.
“Having precise, dependable data regarding dietary habits is crucial for promoting optimal health,” Whitton stated. “Individuals often struggle to recall their food intake, but our study demonstrates that dietary assessment can be highly accurate, especially when individuals are tasked with simply photographing their meals.”
Impact of the Study on Documenting Dietary Habits Clare Whitton, the lead author and Ph.D. candidate, emphasized that this study, the largest of its kind employing the mobile Food Record app, could significantly influence how
Although experts analyzed the food photos in this study, efforts are un-
Excitement Over Advancements in Dietary Pattern Analysis Professor Deborah Kerr, the lead researcher and co-creator of the mobile Food Record app, expressed excitement about this advancement in comprehensively understanding dietary patterns. “Simplifying the process for individuals to track their food intake through photo documentation is key,” Kerr remarked. “As we move towards fully automated food analysis using AI, this process will become even more effortless.” Kerr highlighted that as technology evolves, it could not only enhance the assessment of population-wide dietary trends but also provide more precise dietary guidance for individuals aiming for healthier eating habits. “This research underscores the value of visual data; it sets the stage for a more accurate depiction of dietary behaviors,” she concluded. Page. 7
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This Week in Science
Biology
Veo: Our Most Advanced Video Generation Model
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Inviting Filmmakers to Explore Veo’s Creative Potential In order to explore how Veo can enhance the creative workflow of storytellers, we’re inviting filmmakers and creators from diverse backgrounds to engage in experimentation with the model. These partnerships also serve to enhance our approach to designing, constructing, and implementing our technologies, ensuring that creators play an integral role in their development.
Screenshot by Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET
Veo produces top-tier 1080p resolution videos in various cinematic and visual aesthetics, extending beyond one minute in duration. Leveraging a sophisticated grasp of natural language and visual semantics, it crafts videos that faithfully reflect a user’s artistic concept—aptly capturing the tone of the prompt and meticulously rendering details, even in lengthier prompts. This model offers unparalleled creative authority and comprehends cinematic terminology such as “timelapse” or “aerial shots of a landscape.” Veo ensures consistency and coherence in footage, ensuring that individuals, animals, and objects move convincingly across shots.
Here’s a sneak peek into our collaboration with filmmaker Donald Glover and his creative studio, Gilga, who utilized Veo for an upcoming film project. Augmented Understanding of Language and Visuals Enhanced comprehension of both language and visual cues is essential for generative video models to construct cohesive scenes. They must accurately decipher textual prompts and integrate them with pertinent visual elements. Utilizing sophisticated natural language processing and visual semantic understanding, Veo crafts videos that faithfully adhere to the provided prompt. It adeptly captures the subtleties and mood conveyed in the text, skillfully depicting intricate details within multifaceted scenes.
When provided with an input video along with an editing directive—such as incorporating kayaks into an aerial view of a coastline—Veo can execute this directive on the original video, resulting in a new, edited video. Furthermore, it facilitates masked editing, allowing alterations to specific regions of the video by adding a mask area to the video and text prompt. Image-Driven Video Generation with Veo Veo also possesses the capability to generate a video based on an image input in conjunction with a textual prompt. By presenting a reference image alongside a text prompt, Veo is conditioned to generate a video that adheres to the style of the image while following the instructions provided in the user prompt. The model is capable of creating video clips and extending them to durations of 60 seconds or longer. It achieves this by either utilizing a single prompt or by receiving a sequence of prompts that collectively narrate a story. Prompts: 1.
2.
A rapid-moving shot traversing a vibrant dystopian urban area adorned with vivid neon signage, hovering vehicles, misty ambiance, nighttime setting, lens flare, and volumetric lighting. A swift-moving shot through a
futuristic dystopian urban expanse featuring radiant neon signs, starships soaring above, nocturnal atmosphere, and volumetric lighting. 3. A holographic depiction of a car racing at maximum velocity, evoking cinematic flair, intricate detailing, and volumetric lighting. 4. The cars emerge from the tunnel, reentering the bustling cityscape of Hong Kong.
Veo: A Product of Extensive Generative Video Model Research Veo represents the culmination of years of development in our generative video model research, drawing from projects such as Generative Query Network (GQN), DVD-GAN, Imagen-Video, Phenaki, WALT, VideoPoet, and Lumiere. This incorporates a blend of architecture, scaling laws, and innovative techniques aimed at enhancing quality and output resolution. With Veo, we’ve refined methods for the model to comprehend video content, generate high-definition images, simulate real-world physics, and more. These advancements will drive progress across our AI research efforts and empower us to create even more impactful products that facilitate novel forms of interaction and comPage. 10
This Week in Science
Biology
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munication.
for further research into PMDs and improved support for those affected.
Starting today, Veo is accessible to a select group of creators through a private preview in VideoFX by joining our waitlist. Additionally, we plan to integrate some of Veo’s capabilities into YouTube Shorts and other products in the future. Drawing from extensive research in video generation, Veo is built upon years of development in generative video models, including projects such as Generative Query Network (GQN), DVD-GAN, Imagen-Video, Phenaki, WALT, VideoPoet, Lumiere, as well as our Transformer architecture and Gemini. In order to enhance Veo’s ability to comprehend and accurately respond to prompts, we have enriched the captions associated with each video in its training dataset with additional details. Additionally, to enhance efficiency and performance, the model utilizes high-quality, compressed representations of video, known as latents. These optimizations not only elevate overall video quality but also streamline the video generation process.
Credit: Pixabay
Study Highlights Elevated Suicide Risk Among Young Women with PMDs Led by Marion Opatowski, the study suggests women with PMDs don’t face a higher overall risk of early mortality but do have an elevated risk of suicide, especially among young women.
Menstruation frequently entails discomfort as the uterus readies for shedding. However, for certain individuals, the effects can be severe.
This underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and the development of suicide prevention strategies for all women with PMDs.
Approximately 5 to 8 percent of women endure moderate to severe symptoms that significantly impair their daily lives, mental well-being, and normal functioning.
On average, individuals who menstruate experience around 480 menstrual cycles throughout their lifetimes, typically occurring on a cycle lasting between 23 to 38 days. The premenstrual phase spans roughly one week before menstruation commences, constituting approximately a quarter of the entire cycle.
These conditions, known as premenstrual disorders (PMDs), affect millions of women worldwide. Surprisingly, there is limited understanding of their long-term effects. A recent nationwide observational study conducted in Sweden reveals that women diagnosed with premenstrual disorders (PMDs) face a heightened risk of suicide.
Premenstrual Disorders Linked In fact, they are more than twice as to die by suicide compared to to Higher Risk of Specific Tragic likely women without PMDs. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need Death
This prolonged duration results in significant time spent experiencing premenstrual symptoms, particularly for individuals with PMDs. Among these disorders, premenstrual dysphoric disorder stands out for its severe symptoms, including intense depression, anxiety, anger, and mood swings. Research Explores Link Between Premenstrual Disorders and Mortality Through Cohort Study
Earlier research has indicated that women with premenstrual disorders (PMDs) face an elevated risk of accidental injury and are more prone to exhibiting suicidal behaviors. Seeking deeper insights, Opatowski and her team delved into the connection between PMDs and mortality through a cohort study. This type of study involves tracking a specific group of individuals over time to observe changes within that population. Using various Swedish population registries, they monitored mortality outcomes for 67,748 women diagnosed with PMDs between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2018. Each patient was randomly matched with five women without PMDs, resulting in a total of 406,488 women. Subsequently, they examined mortality rates and causes of death within these groups. Women with PMDs accounted for 367 deaths, resulting in a rate of 8.4 deaths per 10,000 person-years. Conversely, women without PMDs experienced 1,958 deaths, yielding a rate of 9.1 deaths per 10,000 person-years. Women with PMDs Face Higher Risk of Non-Natural Deaths, Especially Accidents and Suicide Overall, women diagnosed with PMDs did not exhibit a higher risk of Page. 11
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Biology
mortality. However, they did face an increased risk of death from non-natural causes, particularly accidents and suicide.
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Assassin’s Creed Now Takes us to a New Scenario, Japan
The incidence of suicide among women with PMDs was 2.3 deaths per 10,000 person-years, while among those without PMDs, it was 1.06 deaths per 10,000 person-years. Previous research has shown a strong link between premenstrual disorders (PMDs) and psychiatric conditions, which are often tied to higher mortality rates. Despite adjusting for this connection, the heightened risk persists. The study’s main focus was to determine whether such an association existed for any cause of death, without delving into its underlying reasons. Interestingly, women with PMDs had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular causes. This could be due to more frequent healthcare monitoring or the effects of medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants, commonly used for PMDs, or hormone replacement therapy. Further investigation is necessary to comprehend the mechanisms underlying the correlation and to identify preventive measures.
“So there’s a lot of people involved,” he states. “We’re looking at certain past projects, future projects, and we felt that, this time, it was the perfect moment for Japan.” A first look at Shadows
Naoe and Yasuke have been introduced as dual protagonists in the game
In the 17 years since its inception, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series has transported fans to various historical periods, from Ancient Greece and Egypt to Victorian London and even the Civil War period of the United States, and now we go to Japan. Despite numerous requests from fans, the series has never ventured into Japan. Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, known previously by its project name Assassin’s Creed: Red, finally dives into Japan’s 16th-century Sengoku Period. So why the wait? In an interview with the BBC, Game director Charles Benoit explained that each new Assassin’s Creed game involves assessing potential settings and considering fan feedback.
Last week, fans got a first look at the game through a cinematic trailer featuring dual protagonists Naoe, a female ninja, and Yasuke, based on the historical figure known as “the African samurai.“ Charles explains that having these two distinct characters allows the team to implement two gameplay styles: a stealthy approach with Naoe, akin to Assassin’s Creed: Mirage, and a combat-focused style with Yasuke, familiar to those who have played the Viking-themed Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla. Fans were significantly excited when they first saw Shadows. Developers at Ubisoft are hoping for success after the lukewarm reception of its earlier 2024 release, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown. Another major release, the pirate-themed Skull & Bones, which originated as an Assassin’s Creed spin-off, received generally low review scores.
However, the trailer also sparked controversy among some gamers, who criticized the choice of Yasuke over a native Japanese protagonist. People opposing this have accused critics of racism and emphasize that Yasuke is a very popular and respected historical figure in the Japanese community. The quest for authenticity Charles emphasized the developers’ commitment to authenticity in depicting Japan and its culture for the upcoming Assassin’s Creed trailer. He mentioned the inclusion of a historian from the project’s inception, consultations with weapons experts, and on-site visits to Japan. The series has been increasingly focusing on authenticity, as seen in the meticulous recreation of Golden Age Baghdad in last year’s Mirage installment. Despite Mirage’s departure from the open-world format of Valhalla, it still faced criticism. Charles assures that the upcoming Shadows will introduce new features like a prone ability and dynamic weather, impacting gameplay elements such as noise and perception.
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CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT
US government backs the carbon credit industry’s push to fix itself
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The Biden administration throws its weight behind the industry’s attempts to boost integrity in the beleaguered market https://www.climatechangenews. com/2024/05/29/us-government-backs-the-carbon-credit-industrys-push-to-fix-itself/
Wheat gene discovery might lead to higher yields and climate change resilience Scientists have revealed the pivotal role of a key wheat gene in boosting wheat yield, aiding in farm productivity and climate adaptation in major grain-growing regions. https://cosmosmagazine.com/ news/wheat-gene-discovery-might-lead-to-higher-yieldsand-climate-change-resilience/
Climate-Smart Tools to Protect California’s Freshwater Biodiversity California’s freshwater ecosystems and the native plants and animals that rely on them have been in decline for decades. Roughly half of California’s native freshwater species are highly vulnerable to extinction within this century. But efforts to protect and recover native species now face an additional serious https://www.ppic.org/publication/climate-smart-tools-to-protect-californias-freshwater-biodiversity/
Water Quality Report: Climate change, doom and gloom, and a reality check Back in graduate school one of the toughest assignments I ever had to do was nothing. https://news.wgcu.org/section/environment/2024-05-30/water-quality-report-climate-change-doom-and-gloom-and-a-reality-check Page. 13
Kilnam Chon, computer scientist: ‘AI will be smarter than us in 30 years at most’
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
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Known as the father of the Internet in South Korea, the expert warns of the consequences of AI by comparing humans to monkeys: ‘We can control monkeys, but they can’t control us. If the AI becomes smarter, it will become the human being and we will become the monkey’ https://english.elpais.com/technology/2024-05-27/kilnam-chon-computer-scientist-ai-will-be-smarter-than-us-in-30-years-at-most.html
Google Rolls Back A.I. Search Feature After Flubs and Flaws
AI is bridging the gap between physical and digital engineering In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the convergence of physical and digital realms is no longer a distant vision—it’s a reality unfolding before our eyes. Nowhere is this more evident than in the field of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE). As we stand at the precipice of this transformation, let’s explore the implications and possibilities in this future. https://eandt.theiet. org/2024/05/31/ai-bridging-gap-between-physical-and-digital-engineering
Apple’s Highly Anticipated Artificial Intelligence (AI) Reveal Could Be Only 14 Days Away. Should You Buy the Stock Now?
Google appears to have turned off its new A.I. Overviews for a number of searches as it works to minimize errors.
In the movie Home Alone, Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin McCallister, was left behind to fend for himself. Some might see Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) in a similar role in the race to develop artificial intelligence (AI) technology. https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/apples-highly-anticipated-artificial-intelligence-ai-reveal-could-be-only-14-days-away.
https://www.nytimes. com/2024/06/01/technology/google-ai-overviews-rollback.html
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ENTERTAINMENT
5 Years Ago, the Original Quest Reinvented Video Games With a New Dimension
The Hottest Video Games Coming in the summer of 2024
https://www.inverse.com/tech/oculus-quest-5-year-retrospective
https://www.redbull.com/mea-en/ the-hottest-video-games-coming-in-the-summer-of-2024
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How LVMH, Loro Piana, Dior, and Bulgari are harnessing AI
Erevan’s Guide to Death and Beyond - A 5e Tome https://www.kickstarter.com/ projects/archvillaingames/ere-
https://jingdaily.com/posts/how-lvmh-loro-piana-dior-and-bulgari-are-harnessing-ai
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COMING UP NEXT
TERM OF THE WEEK TESSERACT A tesseract, also known as a hypercube, is a four-dimensional cube, or, alternately, it is the extension of the idea of a square to a four-dimensional space in the same way that a cube is the extension of the idea of a square to a three-dimensional space.
Global Discoveries In Mathematics Explored At King’s College London Opening on 4 June 2024, It All Adds Up: Global Discoveries in Maths will explore and celebrate the ingenuity of the human mind, and world-wide contributions to mathematics as we know it today. https://indiaeducationdiary.in/ global-discoveries-in-mathematics-explored-at-kings-college-london/
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This Week in Science
Biology
DARPA Aims to Wirelessly Charge Drones Mid-Flight with Power-Beaming
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Wireless Charging Technology You may know about wireless charging in cell phones, using near-field technology and low-frequency electromagnetic waves over short distances. Though seemingly magical, wireless charging operates on a simple principle: a charging unit generates an electromagnetic field via a coil, while the receiving end (like your phone’s coil) captures these waves to create an electrical current, charging the battery.
An MQ9-Reaper drone, while using a 950-shaft-horsepower (712-kW) turboprop engine in it’s current configuration, could be a future-use candidate for being battery powered with the power-beaming technology Dr. Ifana Mahbub is developing General Atomics
DARPA has boosted funding for far-field wireless power transfer, or power-beaming, for in-flight drone charging. This eliminates the need for mission interruptions for recharging or battery replacement, potentially saving critical missions. Dr. Ifana Mahbub, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at The University of Texas, received DARPA’s Young Faculty Award in 2021, granting $500,000 over two years for her project. She has now been awarded an additional $250,000 fellowship to further develop power-beaming technology.
Mahbub and her team are exploring far-field technology to extend the range over which electromagnetic waves can be transmitted. However, their aim is to completely eliminate the necessity for drones to return to base (RTB) for a battery swap or recharging, which can consume valuable time and resources, and may even compromise the ongoing mission. Instead of recalling a UAV, why not charge its battery while it remains airborne? One significant challenge for Mahbub is maintaining the integrity of electromagnetic beams over extensive distances to prevent power loss. Phased-Array Antennas for Precision Charging To address this, Mahbub has devised an ingenious solution involving
phased-array antennas, which consist of a network of transmitters and smaller antennas to precisely guide the electromagnetic beam along a designated trajectory. Her technology leverages real-time UAV telemetry to ensure continuous line-of-sight connectivity, thereby maximizing charging efficiency.
To conclude, Radio broadcasting, television broadcasting, cell phone service, radar, Wi-Fi, and even GPS all rely on electromagnetic waves.
“The signal can propagate in unintended directions,” explains Mahbub. “Our objective is to manipulate the waveform to reduce path loss.”
Impending Crisis: By 2100, 66% of the Global Population to Face Water Scarcity
Military drones, such as Medium Altitude, Long Endurance (MALE) UAVs, are engineered to reach altitudes of up to 25,000 ft (7,620 m), while High Altitude, Long Endurance (HALE) drones frequently operate at a ceiling of 50,000 ft (15,240 m). Tactical drones typically fly within the range of 2,000 ft (610 m) to 5,000 ft (1,524 m).
A new study anticipates a worsening global water scarcity scenario, projecting that by 2100, as much as 66% of the population could be impacted, particularly in regions of the Global South.
Applications Beyond Drones This technology has numerous potential applications. Imagine electric cars being charged while traveling on the highway. Mahbub is developing safe, low-frequency wireless charging technology, potentially capable of charging medical implants in humans, approved by the FCC. While the concept of transmitting electromagnetic waves to charge a small aircraft might seem daunting, similar methods have been employed for years.
However, it would likely be unwise to stand between the transmitter and the drone during the charging process.
This highlights the urgent necessity to address both the quantity and quality of water in forthcoming water management strategies. Conducted by researchers at Utrecht University and recently published in Nature Climate Change, the study utilizes an advanced global model to forecast the exacerbation of water scarcity, attributed to climate change and socioeconomic shifts. The findings indicate an increase in shortages of clean water throughout the remainder of the century, with a disproportionate impact on populations in the Global South. Page. 19
This Week in Science
Biology
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The Multi-faceted Importance of Clean Water Clean water is essential not only for drinking and sanitation but also for agriculture, energy production, and industrial processes.
across different regions worldwide. For example, in regions like Western Europe and North America, projected increases in water scarcity concentrate within specific months of the year, primarily driven by water quantity factors.
As communities and policymakers grapple with on-the-ground water scarcity challenges, the researchers at Utrecht University strive to provide insights into the escalating global crisis concerning clean water availability.
Conversely, developing nations anticipate that water scarcity will spread more widely geographically and persist for longer durations annually.
Using simulations generated by an advanced water quantity and quality model, the researchers evaluate both current and projected global water scarcity. Lead author Dr. Edward Jones emphasizes, “Climate change and socioeconomic factors have complex effects on water availability, quality, and demand in the future.” Understanding changes in these areas is pivotal for assessing future water scarcity. The study indicates that presently, 55% of the global population resides in regions facing clean water shortages for at least one month annually. Jones notes, “By the century’s end, this figure could rise to 66%.“ Regional Disparities in Future Water Scarcity As global water scarcity worsens in the future, the distribution and impacts of these changes will vary
Jones notes, “We anticipate the most significant increases in future exposure in the Global South. These increases generally result from a combination of rapid population and economic expansion, climate shifts, and declining water quality.” Regional Disparities in Future Water Scarcity As global water scarcity worsens in the future, the distribution and impacts of these changes will vary across different regions worldwide. For example, in regions like Western Europe and North America, projected increases in water scarcity concentrate within specific months of the year, primarily driven by water quantity factors. Conversely, developing nations anticipate that water scarcity will spread more widely geographically and persist for longer durations annually. Jones notes, “We anticipate the
An MQ9-Reaper drone, while using a 950-shaft-horsepower (712-kW) turboprop engine in it’s current configuration, could be a future-use candidate for being battery powered with the power-beaming technology Dr. Ifana Mahbub is developing, General Atomics
most significant increases in future exposure in the Global South. These increases generally result from a combination of rapid population and economic expansion, climate shifts, and declining water quality.”
Giant Iceberg Calves Off in Major Event in Antarctica On May 20th, 2024, a 380 square kilometer (~147 mi²) iceberg separated from the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica. This event, known as A-83, marks the third major iceberg calving in this
area in the last four years. In 2021, the first significant event occurred when A-74 separated from the ice sheet, followed by an even larger berg named A-81 in 2023. Sentinel-1 and Landsat 8 Capture Iceberg Breakup The breakup of this iceberg was observed by two Earth Observation satellites: ESA’s Copernicus Sentinel-1 and NASA’s Landsat 8 satellites, providing radar imaging and thermal data, respectively. Page. 20
This Week in Science
Biology
The U.S. National Ice Center officially designated the iceberg as A-83, assigning names based on the Antarctic quadrant where the iceberg was first sighted. Because Brunt is situated in the eastern Weddell Sea, its icebergs are given an ‘A’ designation, with sequential numbers assigned to them. Regular satellite monitoring of ice shelves enables scientists to monitor the impacts of climate change in remote regions such as Antarctica. Specifically, they can observe how ice shelves maintain their structural stability in response to changing ice dynamics and rising atmospheric and ocean temperatures.
TWIS 25-01 JUN 24
McDonald Ice Rumples and Halloween Crack This recent calving event, like previous ones, resulted from the weakening of the ice at the McDonald Ice Rumples and the extension of the ‘Halloween Crack‘ within the ice shelf.
As depicted in the image above, thinner ice appears warmer as it closely aligns with the temperature of open water, whereas thicker continental ice appears darker.
The Copernicus Sentinel-1 mission employs radar imaging, providing imagery year-round regardless of daylight conditions, which is particularly crucial during the six-month Antarctic Night period when sunlight is scarce.
In addition to raising sea levels, causing coastal flooding, and worIceberg Safety sening extreme weather events, the Thankfully, the iceberg poses no reduction of polar ice leads to Earth’s threat to the British Antarctic Survey’s oceans absorbing more solar radiaHalley VI Research Station, an interna- tion, which in turn increases tempetional research facility monitoring Ear- ratures. th, atmospheric, and space weather. To conclude, monitoring polar ice Despite being on the Brunt Ice Shelf, sheets is crucial for implementing the station relocated to the Caird adaptation and mitigation measures, coast in 2017 due to instability in the as outlined in the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (AR6).
Missions like Landsat 8 utilize thermal imaging to assist scientists in assessing ice sheet thickness.
Temperature variances between the ocean and ice sheets aid scientists in pinpointing the calving line’s location.
coast in 2017 due to instability in the outer ice shelf. The continuous decline of Antarctic ice stands as a clear signal of increasing global temperatures and serves as a grave alert.
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CARS & GADGETS
Smart Rings — Will They Change How We Interact With Our Home Tech?
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
The latest wearables are a big change from smartwatches. Could they change the smart home? https://www.livingetc.com/advice/ smart-rings
Shargeek 140: Unrivaled Portable Charging Accessible to All The Shargeek 140 is the latest innovation in portable charging technology, the successor to the successful Shargeek 170. With a sleek and compact design, it offers a maximum power of 140W, https://www.kickstarter. com/projects/shargetech/ shargeek-140-unrivaled-portable-charging-accessible-to-
Unleash your superpower: This gadget lets you detect nuclear radiation
Toyota releasing another sporty coupe? New Toyota Celica concept expected in 2025 packing 300kW 2.0-litre turbo and all-wheel drive to sit between GR 86 and Supra - report
Yes, it’s an ultrafast sensitive scintillation detector for seeking out Gamma, X-ray, and hard Beta radiation, and it fits into a pocket!
Toyota has mentioned another likely sports car revival off the back of the company’s renewed interest in combustion engines.
https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/unleash-your-superpower-this-gadget-lets-you-detect-nuclear-radiation/
https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-news/toyota-releasing-another-sporty-coupe-new-toyota-celica-concept-expected-in-2025-packing
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Math discovery provides new method to study cell activity, aging
MATHEMATICS
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
New mathematical tools revealing how quickly cell proteins break down are poised to uncover deeper insights into how we age, according to a recently published paper co-authored by a Mississippi State researcher and his colleagues from Harvard Medical School and the University of Cambridge. https://phys.org/news/2024-05-math-discovery-method-cell-aging.html
Mechanistic model shows how much gossip is needed to foster social cooperation Dr. Chaya Keller, mother of 11, wins Krill prize for research
Researchers develop mathematical model to Dr. Chaya Keller from the School predict effective dosage of Computer Science at Ariel range of cancer University is an example of a real treatment superhero. Aside from her research, she is also a mother of 11 children which did not prevent her from continuing her significant work. She received the prize alongside nine additional researchers from various academic institutions in Israel. https://www.ynetnews.com/ health_science/article/rjl83aov0
Gossip often has a negative connotation, but imagine you are part of a group deciding on a job candidate to hire or a local political candidate to back. Candidates who get a good reputation by helping others may be more likely to receive help in the form of a job offer or endorsement,
Cancer poses significant challenges due to the development of resistance and the likelihood of relapse. Resistance may arise from permanent genetic changes in cancer cells or non-genetic alterations in cancer cell behavior induced by treatment. https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240528/Researchers-develop-mathematical-model-to-predict-effective-dosa-
https://phys.org/news/2024-05-mechanistic-gossip-foster-social-cooperation.html
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QUANTUM REALM
Quantum ‘arrow of time’ suggests early universe had no entanglement One way to explain why time only moves forward is the quantum arrow of time, and it has major implications for both the universe’s early period and its eventual demise. In the beginning, there was no quantum entanglement. That is the conclusion of a study exploring the so-called entanglement past hypothesis. The finding is part of a quantum reinvention of our notions about why time only flows in one direction.
Are quantum communications truly unhackable? Study suggests otherwise Interest in quantum technologies, particularly quantum communications, is growing as it seeks to improve data security, which is increasingly becoming compromised in the modern world.
https://www.newscientist.com/article/ 2432895-quantum-arrow-of-time-suggests-early-universe-had-no-entanglement/
Reaching absolute zero for quantum computing now much quicker thanks to breakthrough refrigerator design
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Using a more efficient method than current approaches, researchers promise the coldest temperatures in the world at just a fraction of the cost and time. https://www.livescience.com/ technology/electronics/reaching-absolute-zero-for-quantum-computing-now-much-quicker-thanks-to-breakthrough-refrigerator-design
New device, width of human hair, could help investigate physics of light Physicists have produced a tiny device made of a special material called a photonic topological insulator. The device could help in researching the fundamental properties of matter and light.
The demand arises from the assumption that communication via quantum technology is theoretically impossible to hack, but it’s suspected that in practice it may not be completely secure. https://www.advancedsciencenews.com/are-quantum-communications-truly-unhackable-study-suggests-otherwise/
https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/physics/device-photonic-topological-insulator/
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Genetic Breakthrough: Disorder causing intellectual disability identified
BIOTECH & GENETIC
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Scientists have found the genetic root of a disorder that causes intellectual disability, which they estimate affects as many as one in 20,000 young people. And they hope their discovery leads to a new diagnosis that can provide answers to families. https://www.newscenter1.tv/news/ genetic-breakthrough-disorder-causing-intellectual-disability-identified/ article_c32f6a06-1f6e-11ef-8ad-
Another Covid-like threat? Scientists in China create virus in lab that can kill in THREE days
Maternal Immune Response Affects Fetal Brain Development via Microglia
Scientists at China’s Hebei Medical University have engineered a virus using parts of the Ebola, apparently to analyse the disease and its symptoms, but raising fears as this pathogen could potentially kill in three days. The genetically modified virus turned out to be a variant that reportedly killed lab hamsters within just three days of exposure.
Fetal brain development can be negatively impacted by an infection that occurs in utero, and the resulting maternal inflammation. Indeed, an illness in a mother is associated with an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders in affected offspring, even in the absence of a brain infection in a fetus. However, the cell types that mediate the fetus’s response to maternal inflammation are largely unknown.
https://www.wionews.com/world/another-threat-scientists-in-china-create-virus-in-lab-that-can-kill-in-three-days-725333
https://www.genengnews.com/ topics/infectious-diseases/maternal-immune-response-affects-fetal-brain-development-via-
Connecting Species-Specific Extents of Genome Reduction in Mitochondria and Plastids Mitochondria and plastids have both dramatically reduced their genomes since the endosymbiotic events that created them. The similarities and differences in the evolution of the two organelle genome types have been the target of discussion and investigation for decades.
https://academic.oup.com/mbe/article/41/6/msae097/7676106 Page. 26
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Myth or real
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Why health trackers can push you off the road to wellness
WELLNESS
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
As we know more about our bodies, from wearable tech to data feedback, so our health anxiety increases. So is it better not to know? https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/article/2024/jun/02/why-health-trackers-can-push-you-off-the-road-to-wellness#img-1
New wellbeing programme launched for young people
Wellness Wonders: Meet the founders of probiotic supplements brand Heights Wellness Wonders delves into the stories and innovations driving the UK’s thriving landscape of health, wellbeing, fitness, and nutrition. Join City A.M. as we meet the visionary minds and passionate entrepreneurs behind leading brands and the impact they’re making on the pursuit of wellness. https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/ news/wellness-wonders-meet-founders-probiotic-121827899. html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMxqSQGcWVgfmd2ArYEcKUrvkADXnnuOpwr80_ uHpoJyMnQf2mMg4QV7iRIg-
Exercising to keep the brain young: Latest research and expert opinions Exercise greatly benefits brain health, improving cognition, mood and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Several new studies have demonstrated the profound impact of exercise on various biological systems, further explaining its ability to enhance health and fight disease. In this Special Feature, we explore the most recent research on how exercise can protect brain health as we age. https://www.medicalnewstoday. com/articles/exercising-to-keep-the-brain-young-latest-research-and-expert-opinions
A new service has been launched to support young people’s wellbeing. The iDiscover programme, from the Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, offers those who are 25 and under free resources to help them manage issues including stress, anxiety and self care. The service includes workshops, courses, and webinars and can be accessed online and in person. Ryan, a young carer aged 18, helped produce the programme and said that “every” course has input from a “young person”.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ c14k79k1eeqo
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NUTRITION
These cereals have the most fiber, protein and other essential nutrients, new report says Cereal is still a breakfast staple for many Americans. The quick and easy meal was among America’s top 10 breakfast foods in 2019, according to a survey conducted by OnePoll in collaboration with Dave’s Killer Bread.
Quantum ‘arrow of time’ suggests early universe had no entanglement
Eating more fruits and vegetables may lead to optimal sleep duration
The old adage, you are what you eat, applies to both our body and mind. “There’s no doubt that food and mood are really closely connected,” says Dr Federica Amati, the head nutritionist for Zoe, the nutrition science company set up by Prof Tim Spector. “For example, we know that food and dietary patterns are really important in helping to prevent mental health disorders, but also in improving their symptoms. We also know they can help with sleep and energy levels, both important markers of mental health.”
Good health depends on a healthy diet and sufficient exercise and sleep. There are clear associations among these components; for example, good nutrition provides energy for exercise, and many people report that getting enough exercise is important to their ability to get enough sleep. So how might nutrition affect sleep?
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/diet/nutrition/nine-foods-that-benefit-brain-body-nutritional-psychiatry/
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
https://medicalxpress.com/news/ 2024-05-fruits-vegetables-optimal-duration.html
New Carb-Inclusive, Dairy-Friendly ‘Atlantic Diet’ Promises Health Benefits Most people are already familiar with the Mediterranean diet — known for being the gold standard of healthy eating. But the world of nutrition is ever evolving; and now there’s a new kid on the block: the Atlantic Diet.
Nutritionists highly recommend starting your morning with foods that will keep you energized throughout the day like protein shakes and whole grain oats, experts told CNBC Make It last January. And cereal doesn’t fit that category. https://www.cnbc. com/2024/05/25/these-cereals-have-the-most-fiber-protein-and-other-essential-nutrients.
https://timesofsandiego.com/health/2024/05/27/new-carb-inclusive-dairy-friendly-atlantic-diet-promises-
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How Body Scanning Tech Helps Fitness Brands Thrive in the GLP-1 Era
FITNESS
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Weight loss drugs help people shed fat but they can also lead to a loss of muscle mass and bone density. Advanced body scanners help mitigate these risks by giving users real-time info on their body composition https://athletechnews.com/body-scanning-tech-fitness-brands-glp-1-era-evolt/
The 30-30-30 method: How TikTok’s latest fitness trend could help you build healthy habits into your day Sency Transforms the Fitness Market With AI Motion Tracking FitBit Launches Gamified Fitness Watch for Kids Fitbit, a wearable tech company that burst onto the scene in 2009 with a clip-on accelerometer gadget to track movement and calories, has now presented the ultimate solution for parents and caregivers: a connected smartwatch for kids ages 7-plus that promotes physical activity while keeping them connected to their families. https://athletechnews.com/fitbit-launches-gamified-fitness-watch-for-kids-ace-lte/
Sency is the first tech company to succeed in bringing the added value of AI motion analysis to more than a million members and many companies. Revolutionizing the fitness industry with groundbreaking artificial intelligence-powered motion tracking technology and redefining global fitness movement benchmarks, Sency helps users understand human movement like never before, heralding a new era in fitness personalization and innovation. https://athletechnews.com/sency-transforms-fitness-market-ai-motion-tracking/
One of TikTok’s latest health trends is the the “30-30-30” method. This involves eating 30g protein within 30 minutes of waking up—shortly followed by 30 minutes of low to moderate-intensity cardio.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/ 2024-05-method-tiktok-latest-trend-healthy.html?deviceType=desktop Page. 32
WOMEN HEALTH
‘Period poverty doesn’t just violate women and girls’ rights – it can pose a serious health concern, too’
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024: Dr. Nighat Arif writes how a lack of sanitary products is both disruptive and dangerous https://www.livingetc.com/advice/ smart-rings
International Day of Action for Women’s Health 2024: Date, history, significance, celebrations International Day of Action for Women’s Health 2024: From history to significance, here’s all that you need to know about this important day. https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/ international-day-of-action-for-womens-health-2024-date-history-significance-celebra-
Why do women sleep worse than men? Having trouble with your sleep? Well, according to a recent study, one factor that affects how well a person sleeps at night is their biological sex. Sleep problems appear to be more common in women than men. Dr Renske Lok from Stanford https://www.bbc.com/reel/video/p0hzjqpb/why-do-women-sleep-worse-than-men-
Heavy menstrual bleeding raises heart disease risk in young women In a recent study published in the journal BMC Medicine, researchers determined the relationship between heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) or menorrhagia and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the presence and absence of irregular menstruation (IM) among females hospitalized in the United States (US). https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240528/Heavy-menstrual-b-
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Increased risk of erectile dysfunction with semaglutide in non-diabetic obese patients
MEN HEALTH
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
In a recent study published in the IJIR: Your Sexual Medicine Journal, researchers assess the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) in obese and non-diabetic men following semaglutide treatment. https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240526/Increased-risk-of-erectile-dysfunction-with-semaglutide-in-non-diabetic-obese-patients. aspx
Mechanistic model shows how much gossip is needed to foster social cooperation Osaka University to pioneer world-first clinical trial for refractory prostate cancer with alpha-ray therapy A research team at Osaka University will start an investigator-initiated clinical trial for refractory prostate cancer patients after the successful development of a new alpha-ray therapeutic agent ([At-211] PSMA-5) and confirmation of its efficacy in animal models. This will be a world-first in-human clinical trial with [At-211] PSMA-5. https://www.news-medical.net/ news/20240527/Osaka-University-to-pioneer-world-first-clinical-trial-for-refractory-prostate-cancer-with-alpha-ray-therapy. aspx
Study Reveals How the HPV Vaccine Benefits Men The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine significantly lowers the risk of developing head and neck cancer in men and boys, according to a new study.
Gossip often has a negative connotation, but imagine you are part of a group deciding on a job candidate to hire or a local political candidate to back. Candidates who get a good reputation by helping others may be more likely to receive help in the form of a job offer or endorsement,
HPV is the most common cause of cervical cancer, which claims the lives of about 4,000 American women each year. https://healthnews.com/news/ hpv-vaccine-cancer-men/
https://phys.org/news/2024-05-mechanistic-gossip-foster-social-cooperation.html
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GERONTOLOGY & Single-cell RNA sequencing analy- Turning Back Time: Study LIFE EXTENSION sis provides novel insights into the Links Key Nutrients to Slower role of apoptosis-related genes in muscle aging
Our study identified 22 apoptosis-related genes involved in muscle aging and indicated their potential diagnostic value. These findings offer a novel perspective on the pathogenesis of muscle aging and present potential targets for therapeutic interventions. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167494324001754
15 Best Multivitamins for Men in 2024 Reviewed Maintaining optimal vitamin and mineral levels in men can often be overlooked, especially with ever-growing to-do lists and busy lifestyles. Moreover, getting all the essential nutrients at once can be challenging. This is where multivitamins can be particularly beneficial for men. As you explore the web for the most suitable product, you may stumble upon hundreds of options. To help simplify your search, we have created this in-depth review of some of the best 15 multivitamins for men in 2024. https://healthnews.com/nutrition/vitamins-and-supplements/
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Brain Aging
Participants whose brains aged more slowly had a nutrient profile that was similar to that of the Mediterranean diet. https://scitechdaily.com/turning-back-time-study-links-key-nutrients-to-slower-brain-aging/
An Animal Without an Observed Mortality Increase A darling of longevity The naked mole-rat, an unusually long-lived rodent species that lives in large colonies, has long been a mystery of gerontology, and investigations into its biology have yielded some surprising findings. Despite their small size, these hairless, wrinkled rodents are uniquely resistant to cardiac dysfunction [1] and cancer [2].
https://www.lifespan.io/news/naked-mole-rats-continue-to-defy-aging/ Page. 36
PSYCHOLOGY
Yale psychologist, Jeff Bezos agree too much ‘time blocking’ causes burnout, ‘makes you less happy’ ‘I think we feel strapped for time because we think working... as much as we work all the time is essential for achieving the things we want to achieve in life,’ Yale University psychology professor Laurie Santos. https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/ trends/yale-psychologist-and-jeff-bezos-agree-that-too-much-time-blocking-causes-burnout-as-it-makes-you-less-happy-12733528.html
Many Results in Psychology and Medicine Are False Positives
Comforting Spaces: What Makes Us Feel at Home in the World?
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Personal Perspective: What makes us feel “at home” in a house or a community? https://www.psychologytoday. com/us/blog/live-long-and-prosper/202405/comforting-spaces-what-makes-us-feel-at-home-in-the-world
Uncomfortable heat may interfere with policing and justice Recent analysis of Texan law enforcement data suggests high temperatures may interfere with decision-making in some roles.
Only 27.3% of the results in psychology and only 5.3% of the results in medicine have “strong evidence” for being true. A recent study finds that the likelihood of true findings in psychology is hugely overestimated. The researchers conclude that the presence of a positive effect dropped from 98.9% to 55.7% after controlling for publication bias. https://www.madinamerica. com/2024/05/psychology-medicine-false-positives/ https://www.bps.org.uk/research-digest/uncomfortable-heat-may-interfere-policing-and-justice
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COMING UP NEXT
ALMANAC & ANIVERSARY
Meet Astronaut Norm Thagard May 29, 2024 - Jun 01, 2024 Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Global Discoveries In Mathematics Explored At King’s College London Opening on 4 June 2024, It All Adds Up: Global Discoveries in Maths will explore and celebrate the ingenuity of the human mind, and world-wide contributions to mathematics as we know it today. https://indiaeducationdiary.in/ global-discoveries-in-mathematics-explored-at-kings-college-london/
NASA selects astronauts from a diverse pool of applicants with a wide variety of backgrounds, from scientists to pilots. From the thousands of applications received, only a few are chosen to be a member of the elite NASA Astronaut Corps. Each day at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visitors get the rare opportunity to meet a veteran NASA astronaut.
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Origins of ‘Welsh dragons’ finally exposed by experts
ARCHEOLOGY
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
A large fossil discovery has helped shed light on the history of dinosaurs in Wales. Until recently, the land of the dragon didn’t have any dinosaurs. However, in the last ten years, several dinosaurs have been reported, but their life conditions were not well known. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/05/240530132636.htm
Archaeologists, Sanskrit scholars tie up to decipher Rigveda text The Rigveda’s description of life along the Saraswati river co-relates to the archaeological evidence of Harappan settlements; genetic evidence from a female skeleton and animal bones may also point to such a relationship. Taking forward the research to potentially establish a relationship between the Harappan civilisation and the people of the Vedic age, a group of archeologists are now collaborating with Sanskrit scholars to decipher the text of the Rigveda. https://www.thehindu.com/ news/national/archaeologists-sanskrit-scholars-join-hands-to-decipher-rigveda-text-seeking-evidence-that-harappans-and-vedic-people-were-the-same/ article68240285.ece
Mechanistic model shows how much gossip is needed to foster social cooperation
Iconic Sehti Haveli handed over to Archeology deptt for conversion into heritage Peshawar-An iconic Sehti Haveli also termed as `Architecture Jewel of Peshawar’ has been handed over to Archeology Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for conversion of the historic building into Pakistan’s first `Heritage Adaptive Reuse Museum’. https://www.nation.com. pk/29-May-2024/iconic-sehti-haveli-handed-over-to-archeology-deptt-for-conversion-into-heritage
Gossip often has a negative connotation, but imagine you are part of a group deciding on a job candidate to hire or a local political candidate to back. Candidates who get a good reputation by helping others may be more likely to receive help in the form of a job offer or endorsement,
https://phys.org/news/2024-05-mechanistic-gossip-foster-social-cooperation.html
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SPACE EXPLORAExploring Jupiter’s Icy Moon: NATION & COSMOL- SA’s Europa Clipper Prepares for Launch OGY
Exploring Jupiter’s Icy Moon: NASA’s Europa Clipper Prepares for Launch
Assembled at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, the Europa Clipper spacecraft has arrived at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida to prepare for its mission to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa. It will study the moon’s surface, ocean, and atmosphere using advanced scientific instruments.
Assembled at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, the Europa Clipper spacecraft has arrived at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida to prepare for its mission to explore Jupiter’s moon Europa. It will study the moon’s surface, ocean, and atmosphere using advanced scientific instruments.
Exploring Jupiter’s Icy Moon: NASA’s Europa Clipper Prepares for Launch Observations made by the Magellan spacecraft in the 1990s include signs of recent lava flows, highlighting possible exploration targets for probes heading to Venus in the 2030s. Recent lava flows spotted on Venus suggest the planet could be much more geologically active than first thought, possibly as active as Earth. https://www.newscientist.com/ article/2433077-active-lava-flows-on-venus-raise-the-stakes-for-future-exploration/
NASA’s Europa Clipper, a spacecraft built to investigate Jupiter’s icy moon Europa and its potential to support life, arrived in Florida on Thursday, May 23. The spacecraft, assembled at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California, landed aboard a United States Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at the Launch and Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. https://scitechdaily.com/exploring-jupiters-icy-moon-nasas-europa-clipper-prepares-for-launch/
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
https://scitechdaily.com/exploring-jupiters-icy-moon-nasas-europa-clipper-prepares-for-launch/
The Future of the Space Industry The privatisation of space travel is cutting the cost of rocket launches and powering innovation. The widely discussed private space missions financed by billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are only part of a far larger development in the space industry, where the focus is shifting from government agencies to private companies.
https://quillette.com/2024/05/26/the-future-of-space-industry-mars-jeff-bezos-elon-musk-nasa/
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Sony Showcases Surgical Precision with Robotics in Recent Microsurgery Demo
ENGINEERING, ROBOTS, IT
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Securities.io is not an investment adviser, and this does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Securities.io does not recommend that any security should be bought, sold, or held by you. Conduct your own due diligence and consult a financial adviser before making any investment decisions. https://www.securities.io/sony-showcases-surgical-precision-with-roboti-
‘World’s purest silicon’ could lead to 1st million-qubit quantum computing chips Scientists engineer the ‘purest ever silicon’ to build reliable qubits that can be manufactured to the size of a pinhead on a chip and power million-qubit quantum computers in the future. Scientists have created an enhanced, ultra-pure form of silicon that could one day be the foundation for highly reliable “silicon-spin qubits” in powerful quantum computers. https://materials.princeton.edu/ news/2024/mapping-brain-function-safer-autonomous-vehicles-are-focus-schmidt-transformative
Aerospace technology for the defence sector Aerospace technology for the defence sector: Introduction We are living in an era where technological supremacy can often determine the outcome of geopolitical conflicts. Ultimately, this makes the acquisition of cutting-edge aerospace technology a strategic imperative for many nations and their defence sectors.
Mapping brain function, safer autonomous vehicles are focus of Schmidt Transformative Technology fund Two projects — one that maps the function of the brain’s neuronal network in unprecedented detail and another that combines robotics and light-based computer circuits to create safe self-driving vehicles — have been awarded funding through Princeton’s Eric and Wendy Schmidt Transformative Technology Fund.
As businesses and professionals within the aerospace and defence technology sphere seek https://www.airforce-technology.com/buyers-guide/aerospace-technology-defence/
https://materials.princeton.edu/ news/2024/mapping-brain-function-safer-autonomous-vehicles-are-fo-
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The Hell with Gentle Parenting. What We Actually Need Is More Gentle Friendshipping
PARENTING & RELATIONSHIPS
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
I’ve been thinking a lot about gentle parenting lately. Maybe it’s because I’m knee-deep in toddler-rearing. Or maybe it’s because every single person (and their mom—definitely their mom!) has an opinion on the matter. https://www.purewow.com/wellness/ gentle-friendshipping
What Exactly Is ‘Sturdy Parenting’ – And Is It A Good Alternative To ‘Gentle Parenting’? Experts dissect the health, emotional and socio-economic impact of a childless marriage DINK allows couples to save their income which otherwise would have been spent on child’s education, health and raring. Photo Courtesy: iStock For Divya Maben and her husband Nithin Koshy, the idea of raising a child in the current scenario is daunting. “The world https://cbainfo.com.ar/lifestyle/ experts-dissect-the-health-emotional-and-socio-economic-impact-of-a-childless-marriage/887/
After 16 years together, my wife suddenly wants children
By now you must have heard of a range of different parenting styles. From gentle parenting to permissive parenting and even authoritarian parenting. These terms have appeared all over the internet in the last few months.
Dear Michael, A few months ago you answered a letter from a guy who wanted a baby but his boyfriend didn’t. I’m in the opposite situation. Carol and I have been together for 16 years (we’re married) and all of a sudden she wants to have a baby. This was never on the table until her dad died last year suddenly of a heart attack. https://www.losangelesblade. com/2024/05/26/advice-baby-relationship-discussion/
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/ entry/if-gentle-parenting-is-not-for-you-try-sturdy-parenting-a-little-k-
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INVESTIMENT & FINANCE
Investing for a long term wealth creation? Make note of 3 key investing mantras If there is something that Indians get more excited about than cricket and their morning cup of tea, it is getting a good deal. In the world of investing, sometimes that shiny, fast-growing company catches one’s eye and makes you sit up and take notice. As a prudent investor, it would be wise to be wary. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167494324001754
Seven Ways To Transform Financial Education For Young Adults If we want the next generation to have financial stability and independence, it starts with financial education for young adults. However, in our increasingly tech-centric world, financial literacy not only includes personal finance basics such as budgeting, saving, investing and managing debt, but also understanding modern banking solutions and fintech. But for a generation of digital natives, why does there seem to be a gap between young and more seasoned investors in today’s financial landscape? https://www.forbes. com/sites/forbesbusi-
Almost 95 percent of Aussie adults are worried about aged care costs — can you afford it?
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Planning during retirement could help ensure you can afford aged care if you need it https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/ talking-aged-care/almost-95-percent-of-aussie-adults-are-worried-about-aged-care-costs-can-you-afford-it
If You’d Invested $1,000 in Starbucks’ IPO, Here’s How Much You Would Have Today Starbucks coffee was founded in 1971 and quickly grew from a one-store shop in Seattle to a global phenomenon, selling millions of drinks per week. Millions of Americans, and indeed consumers around the globe, couldn’t imagine starting their day without their Starbucks coffee.
https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/ if-youd-invested-1000-starbucks-ipo-heres-how-much-you-would-havePage. 47
Plan for retirement
RETIREMENT
TWIS 06-13 APR 24
Apply for your monthly retirement benefit any time between age 62 and 70. We calculate your payment by looking at how much you’ve earned throughout your life. The amount will be higher the longer you wait to apply, up until age 70. The timing is up to you and should be based on your own personal needs. https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirement
Almost 95 percent of Aussie adults are worried about aged care costs — can you afford it? Planning during retirement could help ensure you can afford aged care if you need it. Almost 95 percent of Australians aged between 18 and 54 are ‘concerned or extremely concerned about the cost of aged care,’ according to a survey conducted by Aware Super fund in early 2024. https://www.agedcareguide. com.au/talking-aged-care/ almost-95-percent-of-aussie-adults-are-worried-about-aged-
New visa promotions, retiree insurance reduced The cabinet approved a raft of new visa promotions to attract more tourists on Tuesday, including visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes and longer stays for students, and a reduced level of compulsory health insurance for retirees.
Here’s How You Can Generate an Extra $10,000 in Dividends per Year in Retirement This strategy doesn’t involve much risk and it can provide you with a lot of diversification. Having an extra $10,000 per year can make the difference between a comfortable retirement and a stressful one. That extra cash can help you to stay on top of bills or perhaps even fund a vacation.
The Foreign Ministry proposed the measures to attract as many visitors as possible because the national economy depended heavily on tourism, government spokesman Chai Wacharonke said. https://www.bangkokpost.com/ thailand/general/2800891/new-visa-promotions-retiree-insurance-reduced
https://www.fool.com/investing/2024/06/02/heres-how-you-can-generate-an-extra-10000-in-divid/
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Employment & Conferences, Books, Films , Recommendation
BOOKS, FILMS , RECOMMENDATION THE IMITATION GAME
EMPLOYMENT & CONFERENCES Meet Astronaut Norm Thagard May 29, 2024 - Jun 01, 2024 Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex NASA selects astronauts from a diverse pool of applicants with a wide variety of backgrounds, from scientists to pilots. From the thousands of applications received, only a few are chosen to be a member of the elite NASA Astronaut Corps. NASA astronaut.
Based on the real life story of legendary cryptanalyst Alan Turing, the film portrays the nail-biting race against time by Turing and his brilliant team of code-breakers at Britain’s top-secret Government Code and Cypher School at Bletchley Park, during the darkest days of World War II. During World War II, the English mathematical genius Alan Turing tries to crack the German Enigma code with help from fellow mathematicians while attempting to come to terms with his troubled private life. Watch Here
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