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World’s First Satellite with Wood Paneling Launched into Space

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The world’s first wood-panelled satellite has been launched into space to test the potential of timber as a sustainable building material for future space exploration, particularly to destinations like the Moon and Mars.

Developed by researchers in Japan, the small satellite, named LignoSat, weighs just 900 grams and is en route to the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX mission. After reaching the ISS, it will be released into Earth’s orbit. Kyoto University forest science professor Koji Murata explained to Reuters, “Wood is more durable in space than on Earth because there is no water or oxygen to cause decay or combustion.” He also noted that early 20th-century airplanes were made from wood, suggesting that a wooden satellite could be just as viable.

The research team hopes that if trees are someday grown on the Moon or Mars, wood could become a key resource for building colonies in space.

In addition to its wood panels, LignoSat features traditional aluminum structures and electronic components. Equipped with sensors, the satellite will monitor how the wood performs in space’s harsh environment over its six-month orbit.

The panels are crafted from magnolia wood using a traditional technique that avoids screws or glue, aligning with the satellite’s sustainable design. Kyoto University researchers are optimistic that one day wood might replace some metals in space exploration, offering a renewable alternative.

Dr. Simeon Barber, a space scientist at the Open University in the UK, emphasized that while the satellite is not entirely made of wood, the concept is intriguing. “Wood is a renewable material that can be grown,” he said. “The idea of growing wood on another planet to aid exploration or to build shelters is exciting—explorers have always used wood for shelter in new lands.”

Dr. Barber also pointed out that wood has been used in spacecraft before, such as cork, which helps protect vehicles during re-entry. “Using wood in space isn’t a new idea,” he explained. “It’s all about using the right material for the right task.”

However, he noted that wood can be difficult to work with in engineering applications due to its unpredictable properties. “It’s challenging to predict how strong wood will be, making it tricky for critical spacecraft structures.”

The Kyoto University team also hopes that using wood in space could reduce the environmental impact of space exploration. Metal spacecraft often burn up upon re-entry, releasing pollutants. As concerns over space debris grow, LignoSat’s potential to reduce harmful emissions could be a step toward more sustainable space missions.

While Dr. Barber acknowledged the potential environmental benefits of using wood in spacecraft, he expressed some skepticism. “While wood could reduce metallic contaminants during re-entry, we may end up taking more material with us, only to burn it up later,” he noted.

Nonetheless, LignoSat represents a bold experiment that could one day reshape the materials used in space exploration, advancing sustainability while broadening humanity’s reach beyond Earth.

Elon Musk left off the guest list for major UK investment summit

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Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, has not been invited to the UK government’s International Investment Summit due to his social media activity during last month’s riots, according to the BBC. The violence erupted following a stabbing in Southport that claimed the lives of three children attending a dance class. Musk posted on X (formerly Twitter), predicting civil war in the UK and criticizing the prime minister. The October summit is crucial for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who aims to secure tens of billions in foreign investment from major global investors. Musk attended last year’s event and participated prominently in November’s AI Summit, where he had a fireside chat with then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. During the riots, Musk shared and later deleted a conspiracy theory alleging that the UK was constructing “detainment camps” for rioters on the Falkland Islands. Ministers described his comments as “totally unjustifiable” and “pretty deplorable,” which the BBC understands is why he hasn’t been invited to the October 14 event. Scheduled just two weeks before the Budget, the summit is seen as a significant opportunity to attract foreign investment to bolster the UK economy. The Labour Party had committed to holding this event within its first 100 days in office. Under the previous Conservative government, Musk, who owns X, Tesla, and SpaceX, was discreetly shown potential UK sites for a gigafactory for cars and batteries. He has indicated that Brexit influenced his decision to open a site in Germany instead. Musk is a familiar face at similar French summits; in July, he participated in a three-hour lunch with top executives and President Emmanuel Macron ahead of the Olympics. Since taking over X, Musk has lifted the ban on far-right figures, including the Britain First group. The UK government is now considering a tougher Online Safety Act in response to misinformation’s role in the riots. As for Musk’s background, he has built a considerable fortune, with Bloomberg estimating his net worth at around $228 billion, largely from his Tesla shares. Musk’s entrepreneurial journey began in South Africa, where he sold homemade chocolate Easter eggs and created his first computer game at the age of 12. Despite previously identifying as “half-Democrat, half-Republican” and politically moderate, Musk has recently aligned more with Donald Trump, officially endorsing the former president for a second term in 2024 after his attempted assassination.

The Apple iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4 have made their global debut

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Apple welcomed customers worldwide on Friday for the launch of the iPhone 16, Apple Watch Series 10, and AirPods 4. These new products were announced earlier this month and became available for pre-order on September 13. At the Fifth Avenue Apple Store in New York City, the iconic glass cube was illuminated in celebration of the enhanced Siri, which will light up the borders of the new iPhone’s screen when the feature is rolled out next month. The latest iPhones represent Apple’s push into artificial intelligence, introducing new features—set to launch in October—that will allow users to rewrite text, remove objects from photos, and interact with an improved Siri. However, these advancements will only be available on the iPhone 16 and last year’s iPhone 15 Pro models. Despite the excitement, Apple’s shares dipped on Monday following analyst reports suggesting lower-than-expected demand for the new devices. TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted that first-weekend sales were down about 12% compared to the iPhone 15 last year. Analysts from Barclays, JPMorgan, and Bank of America also observed that shipping times could indicate weaker demand for the pricier iPhone Pro models this year. In a conversation with CNBC’s Steve Kovach outside the Fifth Avenue store, CEO Tim Cook commented on the sales outlook, saying, “I don’t know yet. It’s only the first hour, so we’ll see.” UBS analysts cautioned investors against overreacting to what appears to be slower sales, pointing out that wait times for new iPhone models were longer last year due to supply chain issues. They noted that ahead of the iPhone 16 launch, the absence of a standout feature and a somewhat underwhelming introduction of Apple Intelligence could dampen demand. The analysts highlighted that while data from various models and regions a week after launch suggests that a sales super-cycle is not imminent, the Apple Watch Series 10 boasts a larger screen and new features, including Sleep Apnea detection. The AirPods 4 come with a redesigned smaller charging case and an option for noise cancellation.

TikTok to start appeal process to avoid US sale or ban

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TikTok will begin its appeal on Monday against a law that could ban the app in the US unless its Chinese owner, ByteDance, divests it within nine months. The law, signed by President Biden in April, addresses concerns about US user data being potentially exploited by the Chinese government. TikTok and ByteDance deny any connections to Chinese authorities and argue that the law is a severe infringement on free speech rights. The company, which claims over 170 million US users, will present its case before a three-judge panel in a Washington DC appeals court. Joining them are eight TikTok creators who depend on the platform for their livelihoods. The Department of Justice (DoJ) will argue that TikTok poses risks beyond data security, including the potential for spreading Chinese government propaganda. However, critics of the law argue that it could set a dangerous precedent for free speech globally. Xiangnong Wang of Columbia University’s Knight First Amendment Institute, which has filed an amicus brief, warns that the law could be used by repressive governments to justify restrictions on free access to information. Wang also criticized lawmakers for not providing specific national security threats linked to TikTok. In contrast, James Lewis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies believes the law is robust and likely to withstand judicial review. He noted that courts typically defer to presidential decisions on national security matters. Experts agree that the case will likely extend for months and may ultimately reach the Supreme Court. “Nothing will be resolved quickly,” said Mike Proulx of Forrester. “This is a complex, high-stakes issue with potential for a prolonged legal battle.”

Maze Singer Frankie Beverly Passes Away at 77

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Maze singer Frankie Beverly has passed away at the age of 77, his family has confirmed. The renowned soul artist, celebrated for hits like “Before I Let Go” and “Can’t Get Over You,” died on Tuesday. The cause of death has not been disclosed. In a statement shared on social media, Beverly’s family described him as living his life with “pure soul.” They requested privacy during this time of mourning, emphasizing their need for space to grieve. The family expressed deep sorrow, stating, “This period for us is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly, known to the world as Frankie Beverly.” Beverly’s music career began in the 1960s with the doo-wop group The Blenders, and he later formed The Butlers. In 1970, he founded Maze in Philadelphia, originally named Raw Soul. The group, influenced by Marvin Gaye, changed their name and went on to release nine albums between 1977 and 1993. Some of their notable hits include “Happy Feelings” and “While I’m Alone.” In 2019, Beyoncé’s cover of Beverly’s “Before I Let Go” on her album *Homecoming: The Live Album* was a significant moment for him. Beverly remarked that the cover made him “feel bigger than ever,” and he described it as “one of the high points of [his] life.”

The iPhone 16 is expected to be unveiled at Apple’s major event today.

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Apple is anticipated to unveil the iPhone 16 on Monday. While the new model may feature only minor external updates, Apple is betting that significant internal changes will entice customers who have been holding off on upgrades for years. The company plans to showcase its first iPhone lineup designed specifically for generative artificial intelligence (AI), which enables users to create text and images, during its annual hardware event, starting at 1 p.m. ET. The event has been teased with the enigmatic slogan “it’s glow time,” and Apple has yet to reveal its meaning. Apple faces significant pressure to demonstrate that the new AI features and other updates in the iPhone 16 justify an upgrade. The company also needs to reassure investors that it is not falling behind in the AI race, as competitors have already integrated similar technologies. Since the launch of the iPhone 12 with 5G connectivity in 2020, Apple has given customers few compelling reasons to upgrade. Advances in phone cameras and screen resolutions have plateaued, making incremental upgrades less noticeable to users. As a result, iPhone sales, which account for half of Apple’s revenue, have been sluggish. Apple’s stock had been relatively stagnant until the announcement of its AI features, suggesting that investors are pinning their hopes on AI to drive iPhone sales. The stock has risen 14% since the June 10 event and nearly 18% since the start of the year. If Apple succeeds, it stands to gain significantly, as roughly 300 million iPhones worldwide have not been upgraded in over four years, according to Dan Ives of Wedbush. While Apple may highlight updates to other products like AirPods and Apple TV+, the primary focus will be on the iPhone upgrade cycle, according to D.A. Davidson analyst Gil Luria. Here’s what to expect from the Apple event: The AI iPhone Apple has hinted at several new features enabled by its AI technology, including more natural interactions with Siri, email drafting assistance, enhanced photo search, and personalized responses. The goal on Monday will be to demonstrate these features in action. Expect to see demonstrations of AI’s capabilities, such as summarizing text chains and providing context on conversations. “These are the kinds of things that will get people excited,” Luria said. “The new processor chip will be crucial to handle the increased data processing needs of these AI features without sacrificing battery life.” There may also be subtle design updates to the iPhone 16, like a wider screen or updated edges, to signal an upgrade. A dedicated camera button is also anticipated, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Pricing A key question is how Apple will price the iPhone 16 lineup. The starting price for new iPhones has been $799 for the past four years. Analysts like Angelo Zino of CFRA Research suggest Apple might modestly increase prices due to the new AI features and associated costs. However, any price hike is expected to be moderate to avoid deterring customers with high costs. Other Devices Apple may also announce updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods. The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to be thinner with a larger screen, and new low-end and mid-tier AirPods could be introduced. These updates will follow new software features announced at Apple’s June developers conference, including the ability to answer or decline calls with a nod or shake of the head for AirPods, and new health tracking features for the Apple Watch, such as detecting potential illness based on body temperature and heart rate.

Why do alcohol and caffeine tend to affect us more negatively as we age?

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In your 20s, a few glasses of wine or cups of coffee might not give you a second thought. But as you age, those same habits can start to feel less appealing as their effects become more pronounced. So why do alcohol and caffeine seem to impact us more negatively as we get older? Here’s what the experts have to say: Liver Efficiency Declines According to Clare Thornton-Wood, a dietitian and BDA spokesperson, “Drinking excessively, binge drinking, and exceeding guidelines are always harmful, regardless of age.” She explains, “Both alcohol and caffeine are metabolized in the liver. As we age, our liver becomes less efficient at this process due to a decrease in the number and effectiveness of the enzymes needed to break them down. Consequently, alcohol is metabolized more slowly, remaining in the body longer and increasing the likelihood of a hangover. The same goes for caffeine—it stays in your bloodstream longer, prolonging its stimulating effects.” Changes in Body Composition “Body composition changes with age,” Thornton-Wood notes. “We lose muscle mass and gain fat. Muscle tissue is about 75% water, while fat is only about 10% water. This decrease in body water means alcohol is absorbed more quickly. Lower water levels also increase the risk of dehydration, which, when compounded by alcohol consumption, can lead to headaches and more pronounced hangovers.” Impact on Sleep Aging often brings sleep disturbances, and both alcohol and caffeine can make things worse. “Alcohol disrupts REM sleep, which is crucial for mental health, concentration, and memory. As we age, sleep issues can be exacerbated by alcohol,” Thornton-Wood explains. “And caffeine? It’s a stimulant that blocks adenosine receptors responsible for promoting sleep. This increases dopamine and other neurotransmitters, making you feel more alert. But excessive caffeine can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.” Both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, potentially causing frequent nighttime bathroom trips, further disrupting your sleep. Stomach Sensitivity If you’re noticing more acid reflux or stomach irritation from alcohol or coffee, it might not be a coincidence. “As we age, our stomach lining becomes more sensitive, and alcohol can increase stomach acid production,” Thornton-Wood says. “Additionally, aging weakens the muscles, including the sphincter at the top of the stomach, allowing acid to flow back into the esophagus and cause heartburn. Both alcohol and coffee relax this sphincter muscle, worsening heartburn.” Genetics Age isn’t the only factor at play. Genetic differences can influence how we metabolize caffeine. Research from the University of Bath found that variations in the CYP1A2 gene can affect how quickly caffeine is cleared from the body. “Some people are ‘fast’ metabolizers of caffeine, while others are ‘slow’ metabolizers,” explains lead researcher Harry Smith. “Caffeine’s half-life can range from 1.5 to 9.5 hours, so if you’re a slow metabolizer, coffee later in the day could disrupt your sleep or heighten anxiety.” Other Considerations Other factors such as sex, body composition, and lifestyle choices like smoking and diet can also affect caffeine metabolism. “Heavier individuals generally tolerate more caffeine,” says Thornton-Wood. “Also, if you’re stressed or anxious, caffeine can exacerbate these feelings, potentially leading to ‘caffeine-induced anxiety.’” Moderation is Key To mitigate the effects of alcohol, the NHS recommends that both men and women limit their intake to no more than 14 units per week, spread over three or more days. For alcohol, moderation is essential—consider watering down drinks or opting for lower-alcohol options. For caffeine, the NHS advises consuming it in moderation, with a maximum of 200mg per day during pregnancy. “Intersperse coffee with water or decaf, and consider the caffeine content, as ground coffee generally contains more caffeine than instant,” suggests Thornton-Wood. Both alcohol and caffeine can impact existing conditions, so it’s wise to consider how you’re feeling before indulging.

Nvidia’s shares drop despite hitting record sales

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Nvidia, the leading AI chip manufacturer, reported a record revenue of $30 billion (£24.7 billion) for the three months ending in July, more than doubling its revenue from the same period last year. Despite this impressive performance, Nvidia’s stock fell over 6% in New York following the announcement. As a major beneficiary of the AI boom, Nvidia’s market value has surged to over $3 trillion, and its shares have risen more than 160% this year alone. However, Matt Britzman, a senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, noted that the market’s sky-high expectations may have contributed to the stock’s decline, as the actual results, while strong, did not surpass the extreme predictions. The company’s valuation has increased ninefold in under two years due to its dominance in the AI chip sector. For the latest quarter, Nvidia’s operating income soared by 174% to $18.6 billion, marking the seventh consecutive quarter of surpassing both sales and profit expectations. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated that “Generative AI will revolutionize every industry,” and the company’s results have become a major event on Wall Street, often leading to significant trading activity. A “watch party” had been planned in Manhattan, and Huang, known for his signature leather jacket, has been compared to the “Taylor Swift of tech.” Alvin Nguyen, a senior analyst at Forrester, remarked that both Nvidia and Huang have become synonymous with AI. While this association has been beneficial, Nguyen warned that Nvidia’s valuation could suffer if AI fails to meet expectations after substantial investments from companies. He emphasized the need for AI to deliver on a massive scale, noting that having a thousand use cases is not enough—there needs to be a million. Nguyen also pointed out that Nvidia’s first-mover advantage and established software ecosystem are significant assets. However, he cautioned that competitors like Intel could gradually erode Nvidia’s market share if they develop superior products, although this would take time.

Who is Pavel Durov, and what is Telegram?

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Pavel Durov, CEO of the messaging app Telegram, has been arrested in France. The arrest, based on a warrant related to alleged offenses involving Telegram, centers on accusations of insufficient moderation and failure to address criminal uses of the platform. Telegram has stated that it is “absurd” to hold a platform or its owner responsible for misuse. Who is Pavel Durov? Pavel Durov, 39, is a billionaire originally from Russia. He founded VKontakte, a popular Russian social media site, before leaving Russia in 2014 due to government demands to shut down opposition groups. In 2013, he launched Telegram and now operates the company from Dubai, where he resides. Durov holds citizenship in both the UAE and France, though Russia still considers him a citizen. He frequently travels across Europe and has publicly stated he would resist requests to remove content that he believes infringes on free speech. What is Telegram? Telegram is a major social media and messaging platform, joining the ranks of Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and WeChat. As of July, Durov claimed it had 950 million monthly active users, with significant popularity in Russia, Ukraine, and among pro-democracy groups in Iran and Hong Kong. Telegram offers encryption for messages, though it is not the default setting, and supports large group sizes of up to 200,000 members, unlike WhatsApp’s limit of 1,000. This has led to criticism that disinformation and harmful content can spread more easily on Telegram. The app has faced scrutiny for alleged failures in cooperating with law enforcement on issues like drug trafficking, child abuse, and fraud. In the UK, it has been criticized for hosting far-right channels linked to recent violent incidents. Telegram claims its moderation meets industry standards and complies with EU regulations, including the Digital Services Act. Reactions to Durov’s Arrest The exact charges against Durov are still unclear, but his arrest marks a rare instance of a social media or messaging platform owner being detained over content issues. Elon Musk has shown support for Durov, posting #FreePavel on X, while Edward Snowden condemned the arrest as an infringement on fundamental human rights and criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for allegedly using the situation to gain access to private communications.

Does eating meat increase the risk of developing diabetes?

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Newspaper headlines suggest that eating “a ham sandwich a day” could increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but experts caution that the issue is more complex than these headlines imply. A study involving nearly two million people across 20 countries has identified a link between both red and processed meats—such as steak, bacon, and sausages—and an increased risk of diabetes. While the study is well-conducted, it does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between meat consumption and diabetes. It is challenging to account for all potential risk factors, including other dietary habits and lifestyle choices. Dr. Duane Mellor of the British Dietetic Association noted that while the study controlled for factors like body weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, and low vegetable intake, some data, such as family history and waist circumference, were missing. Despite this, the researchers remain confident in their findings. The study, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal, highlights the need to balance meat consumption as part of a healthy diet, rather than eliminating it entirely. Prof. Naveed Sattar from the University of Glasgow emphasized that although the evidence is observational, the study supports existing recommendations to reduce red and processed meat intake to potentially lower the risk of both type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The research found that consuming two thick slices of ham daily (50g) or a small steak (100g) may be associated with increased risk, but the effects of chicken and other white meats were less clear. The NHS advises limiting red and processed meat intake to 70g per day due to links with bowel cancer, placing processed meats in a risk category similar to tobacco smoking and asbestos. Processed meats often contain chemicals from preservation methods like smoking, curing, or adding salt, which may contribute to health risks. Although meat provides important nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals, it can also be high in saturated fat, which is associated with elevated cholesterol levels and heart disease. Prof. Nita Forouhi from the University of Cambridge, the lead researcher, underscored the value of the study in highlighting the association between processed and red meats and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. She supports recommendations to limit the consumption of these meats to reduce diabetes incidence. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, ethnicity, and family history. Dr. Mellor advised those reducing meat intake to ensure they still receive essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12 from other sources. Good sources of vitamin B12 include milk, cheese, eggs, fortified yeast extracts (like Marmite), fortified breakfast cereals, and fortified soy products.