Category Archives: science

AI code means more critical thinking, not less

Secure Code Warrior empowers development teams by enhancing their skills to protect companies against potential cybersecurity threats.

By upskilling developers, organizations can build more secure software and reduce vulnerabilities from the ground up.

Connect with Matias on LinkedIn to learn more about how Secure Code Warrior can help your team stay protected in today’s evolving cybersecurity landscape.
https://stackoverflow.blog/2025/11/11/ai-code-means-more-critical-thinking-not-less/

Google Project Suncatcher plans to build space-based solar-powered AI infrastructure systems

This week, Google revealed detailed plans for an ambitious initiative to build “scalable ML compute systems” in space. Dubbed **Project Suncatcher**, the company aims to research and develop facilities for its AI TPU (Tensor Processing Unit) systems outside of Earth’s atmosphere. The primary goal is to harness the sun’s solar energy more directly, addressing the growing power requirements of its expanding AI infrastructure.

In an extensive blog post outlining the details and intentions of Project Suncatcher, Google shared additional insights from CEO Sundar Pichai. As part of this initiative, Google will collaborate with Earth-imaging company Planet to launch two prototype satellites by 2027.

Inspired by a history of moonshot projects — from quantum computing to autonomous driving — Project Suncatcher explores the possibility of building scalable machine learning compute systems in space. By tapping into the vast and largely untapped solar power available beyond Earth, the project aims to harness energy at levels far exceeding terrestrial capabilities. The sun emits more power than 100 trillion times humanity’s total electricity production, presenting an enormous opportunity to fulfill the energy demands of AI technology.

This ambitious project seeks to address a persistent and increasingly urgent problem in AI development: the high cost and environmental strain of powering these advanced systems. The energy demands of AI have grown so significant that environmental groups have criticized companies like xAI for the impact their facilities have on local environments and power supplies — notably in Memphis, Tennessee.

Project Suncatcher represents Google’s effort to pioneer a sustainable and scalable path for powering AI, pushing the boundaries of technology beyond our planet while addressing critical energy challenges here on Earth.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146711/google-project-suncatcher-sundar-pichai-ai-solar-energy

Prescribed burn planned at Sedgwick Reserve in November

Efforts to restore what was lost to the Lake Fire are underway at Sedgwick Reserve. The fire charred approximately 3,000 acres of the conservation and education facility, impacting habitats, wildlife, trees, research plots, cameras, and other vital resources.

Despite the extensive damage, restoration teams are committed to rehabilitating the affected areas and preserving the reserve’s important ecological and educational functions.

Stay informed with the latest updates by signing up to receive headlines directly in your inbox!

| Local Sports | Daily Headlines | Local Obituaries | Weather | Local Offers |
https://santamariatimes.com/news/local/prescribed-burn-planned-at-sedgwick-reserve-in-november/article_f1e651f5-ffb0-4849-8aec-672e66e4eeba.html

Skywatch: Interstellar comet on track to pass by sun

Multiple Mauna Kea observatories have been closely observing 3I/ATLAS, an interstellar comet that originated from beyond our solar system. This remarkable object was discovered by the ATLAS survey telescope in Chile. Notably, 3I/ATLAS is only the third known object confirmed to have come from interstellar space — hence the “3I” designation in its name. (The first known interstellar object, ‘Oumuamua, was discovered and named in Hawaii.)

Throughout the summer, several observations of 3I/ATLAS were conducted from Mauna Kea. However, in November, the comet will pass too close to the Sun for ground-based observatories to study it effectively. Fortunately, 3I/ATLAS will become visible again in December, allowing astronomers to continue their study of this fascinating visitor from outer space. Eventually, the comet will leave our solar system, never to return.

For more information, visit: [gemini.edu/news/press-releases/noirlab2522](https://gemini.edu/news/press-releases/noirlab2522)

### Special Events

Through November, the spectacular Leonids meteor shower will light up our night skies with shooting stars. These meteors originate from the tail of comet Tempel-Tuttle, a periodic comet that last passed through Earth’s orbit in 1998. The peak of the Leonids shower will occur on November 17-18, during which observers may see up to 10 meteors per hour.

### Evening Observing

Near the center of the sky, look for **Kalupeakawelo**, also known as the “Kite of Kawelo.” This is one of the four great navigational starlines identified by the Polynesian Voyaging Society. At the heart of this starline lies the famous **Great Square of Pegasus**, symbolizing the body of a kite flying high overhead.

To the north of the Great Square are the “W” shape of **‘Iwakeli‘i** and the houselike shape of **Kamo‘i**. The starline also connects with some of the brightest stars visible in the southern fall sky.

According to legend, Kawelo was a Kauai chief and hero known for excelling in many athletic competitions. In a kite-flying contest with his cousin, Kauahoa, Kawelo skillfully twisted, turned, and leapt his kite, causing both kites to become entangled. Kauahoa’s kite string broke and was carried away by the wind. Although Kawelo feared punishment from his larger cousin, Kauahoa instead blamed the wind. Spectators interpreted this event as a sign of Kawelo’s supernatural power.

### Morning Observing

Before sunrise, behind Jupiter, you can observe the Milky Way along with the navigational star family called **Kekaomakali‘i**, known as the “Bailer of Makali‘i.”

Enjoy the wonders of the night sky this season!
https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/10/26/hawaii-news/skywatch/skywatch-interstellar-comet-on-track-to-pass-by-sun/

Microsoft’s Windows 10 decision could lead to a wave of e-waste and cyber threats

Microsoft’s decision to stop supporting Windows 10 has sparked major concerns among environmental and cybersecurity experts. The company recently announced that it will end updates for Windows 10, leaving about 40% of all Windows users with few good options.

While some people can upgrade to Windows 11, hundreds of millions of computers cannot because they don’t meet the technical requirements. This means many users may either have to throw away working devices and buy new ones or continue using outdated and unsafe systems.

### Environmental Impact: A Growing E-Waste Problem

Experts warn that this move could lead to a huge increase in electronic waste—known as e-waste—and leave millions of people exposed to cyberattacks. Researchers from Georgia Tech estimate that as many as 240 million old computers could end up in landfills.

Cindy Lin, a professor at Georgia Tech, explained that this issue is tied to what is called “planned obsolescence.” This means that companies design products to have a short life span so that people are forced to buy new ones.

> “These technologies are made to become obsolete quickly,” Lin said. “That increases both consumption and waste.”

When e-waste is dumped, the materials inside can break down and release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. At the same time, producing new computers requires mining, refining, and processing raw materials, all of which consume large amounts of fossil fuels and energy.

### Cybersecurity Risks Loom Large

The environmental impact isn’t the only concern. Cybersecurity experts warn that once Microsoft stops sending security updates, users who continue running Windows 10 will become easy targets for hackers.

Mustaque Ahamad, a cybersecurity professor at Georgia Tech, said that new security flaws in Windows 10 will remain unpatched, leaving users vulnerable.

> “Hackers will take advantage of these weaknesses, leading to more ransomware and data theft,” he explained.

### A Sustainable Alternative: Linux Mint

For people who can’t afford to buy a new computer, there may still be hope. Josiah Hester, also a professor at Georgia Tech, suggests installing Linux Mint, a free, open-source operating system that works well on older machines.

> “So much perfectly good hardware is being thrown away by force,” he said. “Linux Mint gives these computers a second life.”

Linux Mint comes with built-in security and its own software, including a word processor. It requires only 2GB of memory and 20GB of storage, making it suitable for many older computers.

### Supporting a Repair Culture

Experts also encourage users to support the “right to repair” movement, which promotes making devices easier to fix and helping them last longer.

Lin emphasized that encouraging a repair culture and passing laws against planned obsolescence could make technology more sustainable, reducing waste and environmental harm.

In summary, Microsoft’s end of support for Windows 10 raises important questions about sustainability and security. While some users can upgrade, many face tough choices—either contributing to e-waste or risking exposure to cyber threats. Alternatives like Linux Mint and stronger repair rights offer promising solutions for a more sustainable tech future.
https://knowridge.com/2025/10/microsofts-windows-10-decision-could-lead-to-a-wave-of-e-waste-and-cyber-threats/

The Science-Backed Confidence Booster Every Leader Needs to Succeed

The research is in: Affirmations work.

Numerous studies have shown that affirmations can have a positive impact on our mindset and overall well-being. By repeating positive statements about ourselves, we reinforce constructive beliefs and reduce negative self-talk.

Affirmations help to rewire our brain, making it easier to focus on our goals and maintain motivation. They encourage a growth mindset, which is essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success.

Incorporating affirmations into your daily routine can lead to increased confidence, improved stress management, and better emotional health. Whether you say them aloud, write them down, or simply think them, affirmations are a powerful tool for personal development.

The evidence is clear: affirmations work. Try adding them to your day and experience the benefits for yourself.
https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/affirmations-the-science-backed-confidence-booster-every-leader-needs-to-succeed/91251001

The real killer of Napoleon’s army revealed by DNA testing

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**Napoleon Bonaparte’s Catastrophic Invasion of Russia: New Discoveries Challenge Long-Held Disease Theory**

Napoleon Bonaparte’s disastrous invasion of the Russian Empire in 1812 remains one of history’s most infamous military blunders. In the summer of that year, the French emperor led over 615,000 troops of the Grand Army across Eastern Europe’s Neman River, aiming to compel Russia to join a continental blockade against the United Kingdom. However, within less than six months, more than half a million of Napoleon’s soldiers succumbed to starvation, hypothermia, and disease.

The failed campaign is still extensively studied today. Historical accounts have long suggested typhus as a leading cause of death among the French troops. Yet, recent microbial analyses of Grand Army soldiers’ remains reveal that at least two other pathogens were central in claiming thousands of lives.

A new study published in the journal *Current Biology* overturns the long-held belief that typhus was the main killer. Instead, researchers found that enteric fever (typhoid) and relapsing fever played major roles in the deadly toll.

### Why the Typhus Theory Persisted

It is understandable why typhus theory prevailed for decades. French doctors and soldiers’ primary accounts frequently cited typhus as potentially responsible for more deaths than the Russian army itself. Supporting this, the discovery of typhus’s main vector—body lice—on bodily remains, along with trace DNA of *Rickettsia prowazekii* (the bacteria causing typhus), reinforced this narrative.

### New Technologies, New Insights

Recent advances in sequencing technology prompted a team of microbial paleogenomicists led by Nicolás Rascovan from France’s Institut Pasteur to reexamine the causes of death among the Grand Army casualties. Their research focused on remains retrieved from a mass grave in Vilnius, Lithuania—a site along the French army’s retreat route in December 1812.

After DNA was extracted and sequenced from the teeth of 13 soldiers, the team filtered out environmental contamination to search specifically for bacterial pathogens. Surprisingly, none of the samples showed evidence of typhus. Instead, fragments of *Salmonella enterica* and *Borrelia recurrentis* were detected.

*Salmonella enterica* is the bacterium responsible for enteric or typhoid fever, while *Borrelia recurrentis* causes relapsing fever.

### Explaining the Overlap with Typhus

This discovery sheds light on why typhus had been misidentified for so long. Enteric fever’s name derives from its symptomatic similarities to typhus—“typhoid” literally means “resembling typhus.” Notably, enteric fever was not recognized as a distinct disease until later in the 19th century.

Relapsing fever, meanwhile, is also transmitted by body lice, the same vector linked to typhus. This overlap likely contributed to earlier confusion in identifying the exact pathogens involved.

### Reassessing Previous Findings

Rascovan’s team also revisited prior detections of *R. prowazekii* (typhus) and trench fever (*Bartonella quintana*) in the same mass grave. They suggest that earlier identifications may have been affected by different sequencing technologies—namely polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

According to Rascovan, “Ancient DNA gets highly degraded into pieces that are too small for PCR to work. Our method is able to cast a wider net and capture a greater range of DNA sources based on these very short ancient sequences.”

### An Unexpected Historical Connection

The study also revealed an intriguing historical link. The strain of *Borrelia recurrentis* found in Napoleon’s soldiers traces back to a lineage previously discovered in Iron Age Britain, approximately 2,000 years earlier.

Interestingly, all previously sequenced modern *B. recurrentis* strains belong to entirely different lineages. The one uncovered in this study appears to have survived long enough to wreak havoc on the Grand Army.

“It’s very exciting to use a technology we have today to detect and diagnose something that was buried for 200 years,” said Rascovan.

This groundbreaking research not only challenges established historical narratives but also demonstrates the power of modern technology in uncovering hidden truths from the past.
https://www.popsci.com/science/napoleon-army-disease-cause/

Lockheed, NioCorp to develop scandium-based defense technology

**Lockheed Martin and NioCorp to Develop Scandium-Based Defense Technology**

*October 23, 2025 | 7:14 AM ET*

NioCorp Developments Ltd. announced a strategic agreement with Lockheed Martin to collaborate on the development of scandium-based defense technology. Following the news, NioCorp’s shares rose by 3.9% in pre-market trading on Thursday.

This partnership highlights the growing importance of scandium, a rare earth element, in advanced defense applications. The collaboration aims to leverage NioCorp’s expertise in scandium extraction and Lockheed Martin’s technological capabilities to create innovative defense solutions.

**Related Stocks**

– NioCorp Developments Ltd. (Symbol: NB)

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis on this developing story.
https://seekingalpha.com/news/4507385-lockheed-niocorp-to-develop-scandium-based-defense-technology?utm_source=feed_news_all&utm_medium=referral&feed_item_type=news

Common bodybuilding supplement may trigger dangerous heart disease

New Research Reveals Dangerous Link Between Anabolic Steroid Use and Atrial Fibrillation

New research from the University of Birmingham and German scientists has uncovered a troubling connection between anabolic steroid use and an increased risk of a serious heart condition called atrial fibrillation. This discovery raises particular concerns for young men who use steroids to build muscle, often influenced by trends on social media platforms like TikTok.

**What Are Anabolic Steroids?**

Anabolic steroids are man-made versions of the hormone testosterone. They are commonly used in bodybuilding to increase muscle mass and strength. While these substances can lead to rapid changes in physical appearance, the new study led by Dr. Laura Sommerfeld from UKE Hamburg highlights a hidden danger: steroids may cause harm to the heart, especially in individuals with certain genetic predispositions.

**Focus on Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)**

The research focused on a heart disease known as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). ARVC affects the way cells in the heart muscle connect to each other — connections that are vital for maintaining a stable and properly functioning heart muscle. This disease tends to be more common and severe in men.

The study found that using anabolic steroids for as little as six weeks can damage these crucial cell connections and interfere with sodium channels in the heart. These disruptions slow down the heart’s electrical signals, particularly in the upper chambers known as the atria. When these signals are disturbed, it can lead to atrial fibrillation — an irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and even heart failure.

**Expert Insights**

Professor Larissa Fabritz, a co-author of the study, explained that high levels of testosterone can worsen heart diseases such as ARVC. These conditions may lead to dangerous heart rhythm problems and sudden death. This makes steroid misuse a significant risk, especially for young men who might be unaware of their genetic vulnerabilities.

**Implications and Warnings**

This research serves as an important warning for anyone considering anabolic steroids for muscle growth. The risks extend far beyond muscle strain or acne; steroids can directly affect the heart and trigger life-threatening conditions.

With the rising popularity of steroid use—particularly among young people influenced by social media trends—these findings could not be more urgent. It’s a crucial reminder that not all substances are harmless simply because they are available online or widely discussed in fitness communities.

Additional studies have shown that even some herbal supplements may cause irregular heart rhythms. Conversely, certain foods like eggs and yogurt have been linked to better heart health and lower risks of heart disease.

**Protecting Your Heart Health**

Looking good on the outside should never come at the cost of harming your heart. If you are considering supplements or substances to alter your body, it’s always wise to consult a doctor first. Staying informed and making careful decisions is the best way to safeguard your heart and overall health.

For those interested in heart health, it’s also beneficial to read about recent studies on blood thinner drugs that can prevent strokes in people with hidden heart issues, as well as new guidelines on the use of daily aspirin for heart attack and stroke prevention.

Additionally, related research has explored how some diabetes drugs may increase the risk of heart failure, while others can help prevent heart and kidney diseases.

**Final Thought**

Your heart health matters. Make choices that support a strong, healthy heart—not just a strong physique.
https://knowridge.com/2025/10/common-bodybuilding-supplement-may-trigger-dangerous-heart-disease/

Nasdaq Embeds AI Capabilities in Surveillance Platform

**Nasdaq Unveils Advanced AI Enhancements to Market Surveillance Platform**

Nasdaq, Inc. has announced a series of significant enhancements to its market surveillance platform following the successful completion of a pilot that embedded advanced AI functionality throughout every stage of market abuse investigation.

The platform, already trusted by financial institutions worldwide—including 50 exchanges and 20 international regulators—offers cutting-edge capabilities that cover the entire investigation spectrum, from anomaly detection to regulatory enforcement.

**Addressing Sophisticated Market Manipulation**

“Manipulative actors are increasingly coordinating sophisticated schemes through indirect relationships that evade traditional detection methods, demanding equally sophisticated tools that can unmask hidden connections and advance at a faster rate than the threats we face,” said Edward Probst, Head of Regulatory Technology at Nasdaq.

With growing adoption of these enhanced functionalities, Nasdaq is uniquely positioned to leverage the collective strength of its client community in upholding the integrity of global capital markets.

**Challenges with Traditional Detection Methods**

As market manipulation schemes become more sophisticated across jurisdictions, reliance on manual detection processes has proven increasingly ineffective and labor-intensive.

Nasdaq’s new AI-driven detection capabilities utilize extensive industry and internal data sets to deliver comprehensive activity assessments and predictive analytics, dramatically improving detection accuracy while reducing false positives. This empowers market operators and participants to more precisely identify high-risk activities and instruments.

These added AI features build upon existing platform functionalities that streamline the triage and examination processes for suspected abuse cases, enabling global regulators to accelerate enforcement actions against market misconduct.

Nasdaq plans to roll out these enhancements to all market surveillance platform customers starting in Q4 2025.

**Transforming Market Abuse Detection, Analysis, and Regulatory Review**

During a strategic partnership with the Capital Markets Authority of Saudi Arabia, the pilot AI-powered anomaly detection tools were employed to identify unusual activity linked to predefined behavioral patterns.

The pilot achieved an 80% identification rate of pump-and-dump schemes using historical data—significantly outperforming traditional detection methods.

“We welcome the opportunity to partner with Nasdaq and demonstrate our relentless commitment to maintaining the trust and integrity of Saudi Arabia’s capital market,” said Saeed Ali Juraybi, Director of Market Surveillance and Analysis at the Capital Markets Authority of Saudi Arabia.

“The dramatic improvement in detection accuracy experienced during the pilot validates the transformative potential of these AI capabilities. Global capital markets face increasingly sophisticated, cross-border threats, and this technology represents a quantum leap in our ability to identify and combat market manipulation.

By working collectively to develop and enhance innovative new tools, we can stay ahead of emerging threats.”

**Tailored Surveillance Across Global Markets**

Nasdaq’s surveillance technology supports the world’s most comprehensive range of asset classes and market structures, connecting to vast data sets throughout the lifecycle of trades and subsequent review processes.

“Each market segment benefits from tailored multi-agent behaviors adapted to specific trading patterns and regulatory requirements,” explained Tony Sio, Head of Regulatory Strategy and Innovation at Nasdaq.

“The platform’s machine learning models continuously learn and adapt to new market conditions and manipulation tactics. This dynamic defense system equips market operators and regulators to stay one step ahead of sophisticated market abuse schemes.”

**Broad Commitment to Fighting Financial Crime**

As part of Nasdaq’s broader mission to combat financial crime, Nasdaq Verafin recently introduced the Agentic AI Workforce—a suite of digital workers designed to revolutionize the efficiency and effectiveness of financial institutions’ anti-money laundering (AML) programs.

Globally, Nasdaq’s technology serves 97% of systematically important banks, half of the world’s top 25 stock exchanges, 35 central banks and regulatory authorities, and over 3,800 clients across the financial services industry.

Leveraging deep industry experience, technological expertise, and cloud-managed services, Nasdaq continues to help financial services firms solve complex operational challenges while driving modernization across the industry.

*Source: Nasdaq*
https://www.marketsmedia.com/nasdaq-embeds-ai-capabilities-in-surveillance-platform/