Science and Technology

Once celebrated, an inventor’s breakthroughs are now viewed as disasters — and the world is still recovering

Once celebrated, an inventor’s breakthroughs are now viewed as disasters — and the world is still recovering

En el curso de la historia, se reconocen numerosas mentes brillantes cuyas innovaciones cambiaron la sociedad de formas imprevistas. Un ejemplo de esto es una persona que, en un principio, fue celebrada como un pionero visionario. Este individuo creó tecnologías que prometían cambiar radicalmente la vida contemporánea, pero que al final dejaron un legado ambiguo que sigue influenciando nuestro mundo actual. La historia de este inventor actúa como una advertencia sobre la naturaleza ambivalente de la innovación y las consecuencias imprevisibles del avance tecnológico.During their lifetime, this individual stood at the forefront of scientific advancement, receiving widespread acclaim for groundbreaking…
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Meet the new species of giant stick insect that weighs about the same as a golf ball

Meet the new species of giant stick insect that weighs about the same as a golf ball

Researchers have identified a previously unknown species of stick insect that stands out for its surprising weight among its typically lightweight relatives. This remarkable creature, discovered during an expedition in a Southeast Asian rainforest, weighs approximately the same as a standard golf ball, making it one of the heaviest known members of the stick insect family.The newly documented insect displays several unusual physical characteristics that distinguish it from other phasmids. While most stick insects evolved slender, lightweight bodies to enhance their camouflage among twigs and leaves, this species developed a thicker, more robust physique. Entomologists believe its unique body structure…
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Everyone hates wasps. But this scientist wants us to love them

Why do we hate wasps? This scientist wants us to appreciate them

While most people instinctively swat at or flee from wasps, a growing number of scientists are advocating for a more nuanced understanding of these often-feared insects. Dr. Sarah Lawson, an entomologist specializing in hymenoptera, has dedicated her career to changing public perception about wasps, arguing they play crucial ecological roles that deserve our appreciation rather than our hostility.El desagrado habitual hacia las avispas surge principalmente de experiencias personales dolorosas y su reputación de ser más agresivas en comparación con sus primas, las abejas. No obstante, la investigación del Dr. Lawson muestra que de las decenas de miles de especies de…
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Plastics 'crisis' is costing .5 trillion in global deaths and injuries, report says

Plastics ‘crisis’ costs $1.5 trillion in global deaths and injuries, new report finds

A recent in-depth analysis has underscored the significant human and financial burden resulting from plastic pollution globally, estimating its effects to be around $1.5 trillion in casualties and harm each year. This number illustrates the extensive repercussions of plastic waste on public health, security, and economic steadiness, highlighting the urgent need to address this escalating worldwide issue.Plastic substances, now found everywhere in today's world, present both benefits and drawbacks. Although they provide ease, long-lasting use, and cost-effectiveness, their extensive use has resulted in vast ecological degradation and negative health impacts. The study highlights that plastic waste is not merely an…
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Scientists say they've found out what killed over 5 billion sea stars

Experts reveal cause behind death of 5 billion sea stars

Marine researchers have recently uncovered the factors responsible for a catastrophic decline that wiped out more than five billion sea stars along various coastlines. This unprecedented event, which has had profound ecological consequences, puzzled scientists and conservationists for years. The new findings shed light on the underlying causes of this marine die-off and offer important insights into ocean health and ecosystem stability.Starfish, commonly known as sea stars, are essential parts of marine ecosystems. They act as significant predators and influence the habitat's structure. Their rapid and extensive die-offs have not only disturbed the local biodiversity but also emphasized the susceptibility…
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Is an AI backlash brewing? What 'clanker' says about growing frustrations with emerging tech

Is an AI backlash brewing? The story behind ‘clanker’ and tech pushback

The swift progress of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has ignited extensive discussion regarding their effects on society, the economy, and daily life. Amidst the expanding dialogue is a clear surge of doubt and critique frequently referred to as an emerging "AI backlash." This feeling represents a blend of worries, including ethical challenges and apprehensions about job loss, privacy concerns, and the diminishing human oversight.A key voice in this conversation comes from individuals who identify as “clankers,” a term used to describe those skeptical of or resistant to the adoption of AI and automation technologies. This group raises critical questions about…
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s Design software company Figma more than triples share price in NYSE debut

Design software leader Figma triples share price in NYSE opening

A software design company, Figma, had a remarkable debut on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), with its stock ending at over three times its starting offer price on the first day of trading. This launch marks a significant resurgence in investor interest for tech-centric firms following a phase of prudence in public markets.Figma’s initial public offering (IPO) was closely watched by industry analysts and investors alike, especially given the company’s role in reshaping how teams collaborate on digital product design. The strong opening-day performance not only highlights the market’s confidence in Figma’s business model but also raises expectations for…
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Less staff, even less trust: Some states say they can't rely on Trump's DHS for election security

With less staff, states lose trust in Trump’s DHS for election security

The United States is nearing a significant election period, and various state officials are voicing increasing concern over the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)'s ability and dependability, especially due to reduced personnel and persistent distrust stemming from the policies of the Trump administration. Though DHS continues to be a vital federal agency responsible for supporting states in securing elections against both internal and external dangers, doubts have arisen about its perceived trustworthiness and operational efficacy.In recent months, several state election officials have expressed concerns about depending on DHS’s cybersecurity and infrastructure protection branches. These worries arise from both organizational changes…
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Fields of worms and snowy microbial mats: Deep-sea submersible discovers flourishing ecosystem

Fields of worms and snowy microbial mats: Deep-sea submersible observes flourishing ecosystem

In the vast, dark depths of the ocean, a remarkable ecosystem has been uncovered, showcasing life forms and natural phenomena previously hidden from human view. Using advanced deep-sea submersibles, researchers have explored remote underwater environments where they found thriving communities of worms and extensive mats of microorganisms resembling snowy landscapes. This discovery offers new insights into the diversity and resilience of life in some of the most extreme places on Earth.Beneath the sea's surface, the environment presents demanding conditions. High pressure, very cold temperatures, and total darkness define this habitat. Nevertheless, some species have managed to adjust, thrive, and prosper.…
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A shocking record: Lightning bolt stretched 515 miles, crossed three states

515-mile lightning bolt sets new record across three states

Lightning ranks among nature's most potent and unpredictable occurrences, capable of both amazing visual spectacles and significant destruction. Not long ago, an exceptional incident drew the focus of both weather experts and the general audience: a lightning strike spanned an incredible 515 miles, traversing the airspace over three distinct states. This occurrence has established a new benchmark and provides valuable understanding into the behavior and potential of lightning in extreme weather scenarios.The lightning strike occurred during a large storm system that swept across a significant portion of the region. What makes this bolt extraordinary is its unprecedented length — a…
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