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Unlocking the Magic of REM Sleep: Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s have been linked to disruptions in REM sleep. Now scientists have identified the specific receptors responsible for triggering REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep — key to memory consolidation and emotional regulation — offering hope of targeted treatments for those with neuropsychiatric conditions.
Will Harris’ Lead Translate Into Votes? Polls show Kamala Harris taking the lead with 47 per cent to Trump’s 40 per cent. But it could all change. Trump still leads on jobs and the economy with 43 per cent against Harris’ 41 per cent. Their campaign pledges for the economy could be the dealbreaker for voters.
An ‘Anti-Ghosting’ Dating App: After, a new dating app with a difference, is the brainchild of Katie Dissanayake. The app requires users to give a reason for unmatching a person before they can continue browsing. Dissanayake said: Our standout feature is anti-ghosting, which I think holds people accountable. On the flip side, it gives people closure.’
Azerbaijahn’s Cop Out: This year’s COP29 will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 11 November. Azerbaijan is one of the few countries to have reduced its climate targets while increasing gas sales to the EU. Azerbaijan’s emissions from gas extraction are predicted to rise by 20 per cent by 2030, prompting a critical response from campaigners in the face of its dubious commitment to renewables.
A Funding Crisis for Special Needs Children: Since 2016, the number of privately funded special educational needs schools in England has grown by 60 per cent. In comparison, state-funded special educational needs schools have risen by just 8 per cent, creating ‘significant inequalities and gaps in provision,’ for parents and children who cannot afford the private sector.
Is AI Destroying Diversity? Concerns have been raised for the future of cultural diversity and the richness of human communication, which are all language-dependent. A new study finds that people are starting to imitate the neutral and succinct language of AI models such as ChatGPT, suggesting that we may be learning more from them than they are from us.
Did Hay Fever Kill the Woolly Mammoth? A controversial new study claims that a pollen allergy caused the Woolly Mammoth’s extinction. As the planet warmed up and vegetation grew, the mammoths’ keen sense of smell became blocked by pollen, preventing them from sniffing out potential partners and ultimately breeding. One expert rejected the idea as ‘pretty far out there’ and difficult to prove.