The world is trying to kill you, this much is true.Planes are crashing on a near weekly basis. Forever chemicals and microplastics are in our water, embedded in our beauty products and clothing, and even burrowed in our brains. Your kitchen utensils might be poisoning you and perhaps your food is, too. Mysterious diseases and not-so-mysterious diseases seem to be forever threatening another global pandemic. Alarming news coverage of violent crime has people on edge, concerned for their safety.With all these anxieties coursing through modern life, you might suspect the world is a fundamentally menacing place. In 2023, 40 percent of Americans said they felt unsafe walking home alone at night, the highest rate since 1993, according to a Gallup poll. Ongoing research suggests Gen Z sees more risk around them than other generations. You would, however, be wrong to assume that danger is everywhere. Violent crime has been down, air travel is as safe as its ever been, mortality from infectious disease largely fell throughout the 20th and 21st centuries (even the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic was blunted by the swift development of effective vaccines). While much more can be done to ensure the safety and well-being of people, animals, and the earth, Americans live longer, safer, wealthier lives than centuries past. Nothing is without risk, but fixating on certain perils may be misplaced, experts say. Risk and danger are non-negotiables in the great project of human existence. The line between sufficient self-preservation and excessive vigilance is thin and our own miscalculations on what actually constitutes a risk may only muddy the waters. But a life without risk is one without joys and excitements. Generations ago, risks were largely evaluated by the scientific and cultural knowledge of the day. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, some of the greatest risks came from natural causes: fires that razed homes and cities, infectious diseases, and unpredictable weather conditions. Absent any kind of data or expert guidance, people largely relied on their own experience and the experiences of others to weigh risk. If your cousin embarked on a transcontinental ocean voyage only never to return, your perception of such a trips risk would have been swayed.But as technology advanced, around 150 years ago, the risks also proliferated. New transportation, like railroads, held hazards for both passengers and workers. Mines, factories, and other industrial-era workplaces were hotbeds of danger. In order to assess the risks of industrial labor, states began collecting data about accidents and deaths.It was collected to make an argument about you should pay attention to this kind of risk, that the government should step in and try to manage the risk, says Arwen Mohun, a history professor at the University of Delaware and author of Risk: Negotiating Safety in American Society. The first widely collected data is about public health and about workplace accidents, and those were both big political issues. The numbers were meant to shift peoples perceptions of risk.People use both numbers and stories to build a narrative around what is safe and what isnt.These days, especially as mass media makes it possible to stay informed about all the bad and scary happenings the world over, data and statistics are in no short supply, documenting everything from the number of flu infections in a given year to the likelihood of winning the lottery. But the power of experience still shapes how individuals weigh risk. People use both numbers and stories to build a narrative around what is safe and what isnt. The problem is were not good at parsing either. Trust plays a huge role in what data, experts, and firsthand accounts we take into consideration, says Jens Zinn, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Melbourne. For instance, if youre sick and worried about the risk of getting sicker, you usually seek more information from a trusted source: perhaps a doctor. However, when people believe a source of information is trying to deceive them, theyre less likely to trust the information, even if they know it to be true.In a time when trust in institutions is at an all-time low, some might turn to sometimes misleading belief systems when weighing risk, Zinn says. Those who are skeptical of science or expertise may feel like subject-matter experts are corrupt and speaking in a language they dont understand and instead turn to what they know to be true, because theyve seen it themselves or heard it online from someone who did. Perhaps theyll turn to a content creator peddling so-called wellness cures or, a leader with convincing, but unfounded, claims about health and safety. When these messages align with your personal experiences and beliefs, theyre all the more compelling.Embodied truth is something [that] is much more convincing thanabstract reasoning, Zinn says. Unfortunately for scientists or academics who wish to sway skeptics based on facts, facts arent always convincing. If all of your car rides occurred without incident, you may incorrectly believe driving carries less risk than air travel, based purely on your own history.Although data appears objective, were not very good at interpreting this information, says Dirk Wulff, a senior research scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development. The human brain is ill-equipped to process large numbers. While a one-in-a-million chance of developing a rare cancer is hard for our brains to digest, people often think its more likely than it in reality is, Wulff says. The same goes for evaluating risk based on our own experiences. Its just objectively often wrong because we havent made enough experiences to see some of the bad things that could happen, Wulff says. If all of your car rides occurred without incident, you may incorrectly believe driving carries less risk than air travel, based purely on your own history.The most accurate assessment of risk, Wulff says, is to marry experience with data and expert-driven advice. But human miscalculations continually threaten that delicate balance. People tend to misjudge the risk for rare and extreme events they choose to gamble despite the low likelihood of winning, or opt out of swimming in the ocean due to the potential of a shark attack. The more information people have about the probability of experiencing a certain negative event, even if its high-risk, the less likely they are to perceive it as a risk. When it came to Covid-19, people considered their personal risk low, but saw the virus as posing a greater threat to others.The more in control you feel, the more comfortable you are with risk. People fear cancer more and heart disease less because they think they have control over heart disease, says David Ropeik, author of How Risky Is It, Really?: Why Our Fears Dont Always Match the Facts, because the risk factors are [things] they think they can control, and the cancer fear is higher because the risk factors of things they feel they cant. Its wrong. The inevitability of riskIn todays hyper-connected world, were inundated with stories of danger. As a part of ongoing research into Gen Zs perception of risk, Gabriel Rubin, a professor of justice studies at Montclair State University, has found that an onslaught of information about a plethora of threats, like crime from small-town kidnappings to mass shootings and climate change has led to young peoples increased fears. A lot of people say that I could be kidnapped, I could be attacked, or crime is the worst its ever been, Rubin says. Which isnt true. Watching extravagant safety routines on TikTok videos that outline ways to intruder-proof a hotel room or home can add to young peoples beliefs that the world is a dangerous place. In the threat literature, they would call it availability bias, Rubin says, which is your bias towards something that you can imagine. With crime, they can imagine it happening to them.This tendency to assume highly publicized incidents, from plane crashes to true crime, pose more of a risk to you, personally isnt limited to young people. Constant news and noise about risks, real and imagined, raise alarm bells for all audiences. Persistent news coverage of plane crashes, violent crime, and toxic chemicals may lead readers and viewers to assume these events are more of an imminent danger than they actually are. Non-expert commentators and content creators also peddle misinformation about nonexistent risks on TikTok such as the supposed dangers of sunscreen in order to further their own agenda or to sell products. The popularity of true crime could contribute to peoples fear of violence despite evidence of decreasing crime rates. Persistent news coverage of plane crashes, violent crime, and toxic chemicals may lead readers and viewers to assume these events are more of an imminent danger than they actually are.This mismatch between what the evidence says is risky and the appropriate level of fear is what Ropeik calls the risk perception gap. When our fears dont match the evidence, he says, the gap between our fears and the facts becomes a risk all by itself. For instance, vaccine skeptics who fear the side effects of immunizations create a greater risk of illness or death by forgoing the shots. Their anxieties are simply centered around the wrong thing.A wealth of information may seem beneficial in allowing people to learn and gird themselves against dangers, but our system starts to short-circuit with too much data.Were not built for all the inputs that were getting, Rubin says. We have so much information flooding us. Our brain tries to keep us alive by emphasizing via our emotional system that this or that is scary, you should stay away from it. But in a world where seemingly everything poses a risk, how can you discern the imminent dangers from statistical anomalies? Living and coping with riskFeeling constantly threatened can lead to perceiving more threats and increased anxiety. All this stress has profound effects on the body, from increased risk of heart disease to suppressed immune system function. Our radar screens are more constantly filled with boogeymen, Ropeik says. That has a biological impact. It makes every blip on the radar screen look bigger.The result is a culture that highly regards safety. Generational shifts in child-rearing have given rise to helicopter and bulldozer parents who emphasize protecting kids from lifes difficulties and dangers at all costs. From a young age, children learn from the adults in their lives the dangers of certain behaviors running too fast at the playground, sleeping over a friends house and start to craft a risk-free life as they grow up. The tendency to assume if something bad happens to you, its your fault sends the message that one must be on-guard at all times. How to more accurately weigh risk in two stepsAvoid forming an opinion based on gut feelings: Do some research and read scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals or reports from trusted sources about the rates of the specific risk.Ask yourself why youre frightened: Is the topic capturing your attention because of news coverage or conversations on social media? Are you distrustful of the people or institutions involved? Do you feel at greater risk because of your gender or identity?Ask yourself questions about what psychological or emotional filters youre seeing the risk through, Ropeik says. Theyre like stained-glass windows. What kind of stained-glass windows are in the way between the risk and me that are making it feel the way it does?Meanwhile, virtual worlds and entertainment provide a supposedly risk-free alternative. Video games and social media provide safe environments to have vicarious experiences without the risk of physical harm. You cant break a bone or get kidnapped if you never leave your room, never log off. Of course, social media use carries risk for negative mental health consequences for adolescents and adults alike. And opting to spend more time alone binge-watching, doomscrolling adversely impacts mental and physical health. Especially this Covid generation, they think that being home is a safe space and it has no risk, Rubin says, and theyre suffering mentally which is a risk.Risk-aversion may be a lingering hangover effect from the pandemic. Research has found that Americans who lived through the Great Depression and the 2008 economic recession were less likely to take financial risks. The pandemic might have had a similar effect on risk-taking overall, says Wulff, the research scientist. Because nothing in this world is without risk its possible to die from loneliness or in your bed, fast asleep we must learn to live with it. Some perceived risks do have positive payoffs. Exploring the world, falling in love, and changing careers are among lifes richest experiences, but theyre far from safe. Taking chances and bouncing back from setbacks help build resilience and perhaps the chronically risk-averse need to feel comfortable with the possibility of short-term hurt for long-term gains. It used to be said that [challenges] built character, Mohun, the historian, says. That you needed to fall off, metaphorically or literally, because you needed to know that you could get up and walk away.Of course, theres no need to put yourself in dangerous situations. But with the help of a mental health professional, slow exposure to fear-inducing activities can help reduce anxiety. With each incident-free subway ride, you may be less avoidant, less likely to see danger in public spaces.Just because danger could lurk at every turn doesnt mean life is inherently unsafe. Risk is inescapable, as are death and taxes. But avoiding it means cutting ourselves off from everything pleasurable, too. And that isnt living its limbo. See More:

At Vox, I specialize in writing and editing all sorts of stories about animal agriculture and the future of food, from the strange ritual of eating turkeys on Thanksgiving to the policy debates around the fate of mother pigs in the pork industry. But the lives of Americas 9.4 million dairy cows have always been especially close to my heart, and to many people who care about farm animals, for reasons that will become clear as you read this comic. Id written a bit about dairy cows before, but to truly do the story justice, I knew I needed to narrate and illustrate, in depth, a dairy cows life from birth to death (and even then, there was so much from my research that had to be left on the cutting-room floor). Once you really see it, its impossible to look at milk the same way again.Sources and further reading: Spoiled: The Myth of Milk as Superfood, by Anne Mendelson The Cow with Ear Tag #1389, by Kathryn Gillespie Americans are drinking more cows milk. Heres why thats a problem. (Vox) 9 charts that show US factory farming is even bigger than you realize (Vox) Big Milk has taken over American schools (Vox) The truth about organic milk (The Atlantic) What happens at livestock auctions? (Vox) I just want to leave with the calf: The US activist befriending farmers (The Guardian) Newborn dairy calves endure long, grueling journeys across the United States (Animal Welfare Institute) Regrouping induces anhedonia-like responses in dairy heifers (JDS Communications, a journal of the American Dairy Science Association) Dont mind milk? The role of animal suffering, speciesism, and guilt in the denial of mind and moral status of dairy cows (Food Quality and Preference journal)

If youre not familiar with Minecraft as a game then this film, notionally a big screen version of same, wont necessarily solve that. Minecraft, even more than most computer games, is what you make of it, an experience generated by the player. So in a way, the idea of making a film set in the Minecraft world is counterintuitive, because it can never replicate what is good about Minecraft, it can only tell you what is good about Minecraft. In addition to that, this comedy-fantasy takes aspects of the Minecraft world and uses them as building blocks in a rollicking adventure suitable for almost all ages, giving Jack Black and Jason Momoa carte blanche to wild out and be deeply silly. Your affection for and/or tolerance of this latter prospect will dictate to a large extent your enjoyment of this film.Black plays Steve, a crafter who in the game was the original default player, although that doesnt especially matter here. Momoa is Garrett The Garbage Man Garrison, a washed-up video game champ with an aesthetic stuck permanently and delightfully in the 1980s: pink leather fringed jacket and luscious locks flowing down past his prodigious shoulders like the first snowmelt off a mountain range. As this is kinda-sorta an ensemble film, we also have Henry (Sebastian Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers) and Dawn (Danielle Brooks) rounding out the good guys squad. Its not the fault of any of the three latter actors, but its hard for them to make an impression alongside Black and Momoa going full-throttle and it would become an exhausting experience if they tried. That does mean their storylines feel like downtime, a chance to relax and catch your breath, rather than providing the emotional core that the writers presumably intended.Used more sparingly, but also firing on all cylinders is a hilarious and when is she not? Jennifer Coolidge, whose teacher character is exactly the kind of breathy over-sharer that Coolidge has made her speciality. She immediately tells Henry, a child in her care, that she stuck it out in a dead marriage for 20 years for the sake of the dogs. Coolidge is, quite simply, a genius at this, and can do this stuff in her sleep, without the slightest suggestion of effort.Black is a very different type of performer; you can see effort in every swivel-eyed tic and line delivery, but thats the whole point: its funny (mostly) to see someone commit that wholeheartedly to the bit. Its a shame the film as a whole doesnt work quite as well as its standout performances, with a tendency to ping pong along from scrape to scrape with little sense that it would matter much if you rearranged the various monster attacks or obstacles to be overcome in a different order. A little more craft on the storytelling side could have elevated this to something special a la Dungeons and Dragons from 2023, but its an enjoyable if hectic experience nonetheless.

Xbox Game Pass is getting a cracker of a new title here on day one as South of Midnight offers a brilliantly fresh console hit combining several classic gameplay tropesTech17:00, 03 Apr 2025South of MidnightThe art style of South of Midnight is worth the cover price alone, and thats not even considering the brilliantly unique storyline and wonderfully realised world.Built by Compulsion Games, this instant Xbox classic brings to life the mythology of the American Deep South like no title before it.Article continues belowAs such, it feels fresh and compelling, with a wonderful emotional exploration of love and loss, pain and healing.This is a third-person action-adventure game set in a fantastical version of the US South.As protagonist Hazel, the game tells a modern folktale that starts with a storm and your mum being lost as high waters wash away the family mobile home downriver.Its up to a determined Hazel, a bit of a prize runner as it happens, to chase after mum and try to save her.Then it gets all kinds of Alice in Wonderland, with our hero slowly learning shes a weaver who can heal the tangles of pain that create havoc just outside of normal vision.Youll meet weird and wacky talking creatures, as well as the unique locals, a giant meanie bosses - all to a beautiful backdrop of Southern-inspired lyrical music.There are elements of Infamous and Uncharted in the gameplayREAD MORE: Mario Kart 9: All we know about latest Nintendo racer ahead of Switch 2 eventGameplay combines various elements from other titles.Theres the puzzle platforming of Uncharted, complete with ledge traversing and wall climbing.Then theres the magic-inspired combat, which gave me Infamous vibes, as you battle dark monsters using a series of RPG-lite cool-down attacks mixed with a little Returnal.And the swordplay combos can feel like something mixed between an Assassins Creed and Soulslike game.Theres even wall running straight out of Titanfall.It all works really well together and the difficulty ramps up at a nice place so - while you will die - its not so frustrating that youll be throwing a controller against the wall.Over 10-12 hours, youll find your hero upgrading her weaver powers slowly with a Spider-Man style skills tree which results in epic boss battles occasionally with giant monsters, like crocs.But while the gameplay is good, its the storytelling and visual style that really elevates South of Midnight.Over 10-12 hours, youll find your hero upgrading her weaver powersREAD MORE: GameSir Super Nova review: An easy-to-use cable free versatile video game controllerThis is one of the very best looking games in Xbox, running at 4K 60FPS, with a stop-motion style of animation I dont think Ive ever seen before.Its done so well you cant help but fall in love with this amazing, lush part of America.Article continues belowPair that with incredible modern fairytale storytelling and a cast of excellent heroes and villains, all voiced to perfection by the actors - it really is something to see.Different, fun to play, with loads of collectibles to find and a deep story that pulls at the heart, South of Midnight is THE video gaming gem of the year so far.VERDICT 5/5

Nintendo Switch 2 battery life almost identical to original consoleMichael BeckwithPublished April 3, 2025 5:08pmUpdated April 3, 2025 5:08pm Be aware of which Switch 2 games you choose to play while undocked (Nintendo)In the wake of the big Nintendo Switch 2 showcase, further details about the console have been shared, such as its battery life and improved controllers.While yesterdays Nintendo Switch 2 showcase unveiled a lot of information about the upcoming console, including its release date and price, there were still a few details left unexplained.Some time was spent on the Switch 2s specifications, such as how it can run certain games at upwards of 120 frames per second, but one thing Nintendo didnt comment on was the consoles battery life.A more detailed breakdown of the Switch 2s technical specifications has since been shared on Nintendos website, revealing how long the consoles battery will last when undocked and its pretty much identical to the original Switch model.Over on the Japanese Nintendo Switch 2 website, a section on the consoles specs says that it comes with a 5220mAh lithium-ion battery. In laymans terms, this is a higher capacity battery than the ones housed in the original Switch and its alternate models.So, does this mean Switch 2 play sessions in handheld mode and desktop mode will last for much longer? Unfortunately, no. Its battery is better but the console uses more power, so things end up balancing out almost the same as they were before.According to Nintendos own estimates, the Switch 2 can last for anywhere from two hours to six and a half hours, which is just how it was with the original Switchs battery life.As detailed on Nintendos support website, the Switch can last from two and a half hours to six and a half. More modern models, including the OLED model, improved this approximation to four and half hours to nine hours.The portable-only Switch Lite also has a superior battery life, capable of running for three to seven hours. Maybe dont save Cyberpunk 2077 play sessions for long train journeys (CD Projekt)This is, of course, entirely dependent on what games you happen to be playing. Something more graphically intensive, like the Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077 ports, will drain the battery quicker than a game with simpler visuals.Games built for Switch 2 need more power than original Switch games, so thats part of the factor too. With any luck, thisll mean Switch 1 games wont be as demanding when running on Switch 2 through backwards compatibility.Additionally, the amount of time it takes to charge up the Switch 2 is identical to the Switch 1, at approximately three hours as long as the console is docked and in sleep mode.More TrendingAlthough the battery situation is back to square one, the Switch 2 shouldnt suffer from any Joy-Con drift issues. This became such a widespread problem for the Switch 1 that Nintendo had to start offering free repairs, especially in the first year or so.It was suspected that Joy-Con drift would be a thing of the past thanks to the Switch 2s new Joy-Con controllers. In a recent roundtable interview, design lead Tetsuya Sasaki highlighted how the wireless connection between the Switch 2 and its controllers is an improvement over the original Switch.The new Joy-Con 2 controllers for the Nintendo Switch 2 have really been designed from the ground up, from scratch, to have bigger movement and smoother movement, explained Sasaki.He also suggested the Switch 2 has bigger wireless antennas, adding, The bigger the antenna, the better the connection. And as weve been able to do that, I think youll find the connection is improved. Aside from new Joy-Cons, the Switch 2 is getting a new Pro Controller and a webcam accessory (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.ArrowMORE: How to pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2 in the UKGameCentralSign up for exclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

Samus goes psychic (Nintendo)The long-awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is coming soon to Nintendo Switch 2 and weve already played it and experienced its impressive new control options.As predicted, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond didnt feature prominently in Wednesdays 60 minute-long Nintendo Direct, as it had already been one of the highlights of the previous weeks showcase. There it was revealed that bounty hunter Samus Aran gains psychic powers during the game, but none of that was shown in the demo we played this week, which seemed to be from the very start of the game.The version shown last week was for the original Switch but Wednesdays Direct confirmed that there will also be a native Nintendo Switch 2 edition of the game, with improved visuals and optional mouse control. We didnt see the Switch 1 version to compare but on the Switch 2 Metroid Prime 4 was probably the most graphically impressive game we played, despite that not being the Switch 2 upgrade we found most interesting.Metroid Prime 4 is also the best advert for mouse controls on the Switch 2 and we particularly liked how it is not only optional (we assume you can just use the Pro Controller if you prefer) but that you can switch back and forth instantly, as the situation dictates.Theres a very strong whiff of Halo in the games intro, as Samus (who never actually seems to do any bounty hunting, because apparently Nintendo didnt originally understand what the term meant) is called in to help out a Federation outpost under attack from Space Pirates, who are trying to steal some kind of special artefact.The original reveal trailer is from the same section of the game, with both it and the demo ending with rival bounty hunter Sylux turning up. Before that though, the game introduces you to the basics of Samus abilities, which will be very familiar to existing Metroid Prime fans (or those that have only played Metroid Dread, since the fundamentals are the same, despite the Prime games using a first person view). Perfect with a mouse (Nintendo)For the demo we were given two Joy-Cons and you can play the game with them held in the normal fashion, moving with the left analogue stick and aiming with the right one. What you can also do though is turn the right Joy-Con on its side and use it like a mouse, for faster and more accurate aiming, which works very well.We ended up alternating between the two modes often, sometimes on a whim and sometimes depending on what we were doing, as turning it away from mouse mode gives you easier access to your special visor modes and makes more sense when transforming into a morph ball.By design, Metroid Prime 4 has a lot of auto-aim built in, if you lock onto specific enemies, but you still have to lead your targets or aim at specific weak spots when fighting larger opponents. So the fine aiming is very useful- as well as adding to the immersion, considering Samus armour has a giant transforming gun on her right arm.The nods to Halo begin with the intro, as Samus fights through a battle in the upper atmosphere, and continue as you fight Space Pirates and see Federation troops utilise a giant mech that looks like much more serious military tech than youd expect from a Nintendo-made game.More TrendingThe demo ends with an enjoyable boss battle, that forces you to use the morph ball to avoid incoming energy attacks and learn how to use a dash dodge to move rapidly left and right around a target. Its no pushover for a first boss and we found the demo as a whole very encouraging for the final game.The wait for Metroid Prime 4 has been an unusually long one, with the whole project having been started again from scratch, when Nintendo wasnt happy with it, but it seems well worth the wait and the only disappointment so far is that its not a launch title.Formats: Nintendo Switch 2 (previewed) and Nintendo SwitchPrice: TBAPublisher: NintendoDeveloper: Retro StudiosRelease Date: 2025Age Rating: 12 Its certainly a looker (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralSign up for exclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

By Ed Cara Published April 3, 2025 | Comments (0) | Even a single shot of the MMR vaccine provides substantial protection against measles, but two doses are standard. SamaraHeisz5 via Shutterstock Measles has been making an unwelcome comeback in the U.S. and world lately. Its resurgence might be enough to make many of us reasonably wonder: Just how protected am I from measles? And should I think about getting a booster vaccine shot? Its important to emphasize that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effectiveproviding 97% protection from measles with the standard two-shot series. Most Americans have and are still getting vaccinated with the MMR vaccine, thanks to routine childhood programs that were established nationwide starting in the 1980s. These programs require children to receive several vaccines to attend public school, but families can obtain medical or personal exemptions depending on the state. As of the 2023-2024 school year, roughly 93% of school-age children in the U.S. have received their MMR shots. That said, this percentage has slightly dipped in recent years and is now below the threshold of herd, or community, immunity needed to prevent the highly contagious virus from spreading widely in any given area. Hence the recent outbreaks. The current measles outbreaks in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, now officially over 500 cases, are occurring almost entirely among pockets of unvaccinated people, and its the unvaccinated who are much more vulnerable to measles, particularly very young children. But there are certain situations in which you might want or need a catch-up vaccination.Walter Orenstein, a professor at the Emory University School of Medicine and former director of the U.S. immunization program at CDC, notes that there were two types of measles vaccine that first became available in the U.S. in 1963. One was a live, weakened virus vaccinethe same type used today, though later modified to be milderand the other was an inactivated, or killed, measles virus vaccine. Unfortunately, the inactivated vaccine didnt provide lasting immunity and increased the risk of a severe form of measles, known as atypical measles, in people who later caught the virus naturally. It was pulled by 1967but some people who got it are still around today.So if someone was vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 with this vaccine, or an unknown vaccine, its reasonable to get another dose of the measles vaccine thats actually effective, Orenstein told Gizmodo. People who received this vaccine or are unsure of which vaccine they received during this time period are recommended to get at least one dose of the standard measles vaccine. Practically everyone born before 1957 is likely to have contracted measles, which also provides long-lasting immunity, so theyre generally fine. The Centers for Disease Control has said that healthcare personnel born before 1957 with no evidence of measles infection (either in their records or from lab tests) should consider the standard two-dose series. Its also worth noting that Americans born between 1968 and 1989 received only one shot of the MMR vaccine. Even a single shot is highly effectiveabout 93%so most people in this scenario are well protected. But the CDC does recommend that adults at higher risk for measles exposure get their second shot if they havent already. These higher-risk groups include college students, healthcare personnel, people traveling internationally, and anyone else whos deemed to be at risk by public health officials, such as people living near active outbreaks. The nearly 100% protection provided by full MMR vaccination does still leave open some tiny room for vulnerability, of course. Sometimes, a fully vaccinated person, exposed to measles during an outbreak, will get sick. This might happen because the persons immune system didnt mount a full protective response at the time of vaccination, or because a persons immunity has waned over time.Thankfully, waning immunity isnt a major individual concern. Studies have estimated that somewhere between 0.22% and 0.04% of the vaccines effectiveness declines yearly. This means it would take between five and 25 years for the average person to be 1% less protected than they were right after their MMR shots. If you are concerned about your susceptibility to measles, or you dont know your vaccination status, you can always talk to your primary care doctor. Your doctor might run a blood test to check for measles antibodiesor even proactively recommend an MMR dose. While no one likes a needle, the MMR vaccine is perfectly safe, so getting an extra shot is fine even if you might already be well-protected. One of the pluses, if someone happens to be already immune, is that nothing would happen because their bodies would kill the vaccine virus before anything can happen, Orenstein said.Outside of a few corner situations, though, measles remains a more serious threat to the unvaccinated, including people who are too young or medically unable to get vaccinated, such as people with severely weakened immune systems. The best way to keep the virus contained, he notes, is to make sure everyone who can get vaccinated does. Thats why its so critical that we get very high immunization levels in our communities. Because for the measles virus to survive, it needs to be transmitted from an infectious person to a susceptible person. And if the infectious person only comes in contact with immune people, that chain of transmission is broken and indirectly protects people who cant be vaccinated because they have legitimate medical contradictionstheyre all protected if theyre not exposed, Orenstein said. Children are recommended to get their first MMR shot between 12 and 15 months of age, and their second shot between 4 and 6 years of age, though children at risk of exposure during an outbreak or international travel may receive them earlier and/or an extra dose. Measles is no jokeits highly contagious and can be dangerous especially for kids and people who cant get vaccinated. If youre at risk, or uncertain about your status, you may want to talk to your doctor sooner rather than later.Daily NewsletterYou May Also Like By Ed Cara Published April 2, 2025 By Ed Cara Published March 26, 2025 By Ed Cara Published March 14, 2025 By Ed Cara Published March 13, 2025 By Ed Cara Published March 12, 2025 By Ed Cara Published March 11, 2025

Need a new smartphone? It can feel a lot like needing a new laptop, camera, and phone all in one with all the features you have to shop around for. The line between smartphone and professional camera keeps getting blurrier, and Googles Pixel 9 pushes that boundary even further. Combining their most advanced camera system yet with cutting-edge AI features, the Pixel 9 isnt just taking photos its reimagining whats possible with mobile photography.See at AmazonFrom being able to put yourself in group shots youve taken to completely transforming photo backgrounds with Magic Editor, this is the closest thing to having a professional photographer and photo editor in your pocket.Amazon has slashed $200 off the Google Pixel 9, bringing it down to $699 from its regular price of $899. This 22% discount makes Googles latest flagship more accessible than ever.Your new favorite smartphone, evolvedThe heart of the Pixel 9 is its revolutionary camera system. The 50MP main sensor delivers exceptional detail and color accuracy, while the new 48MP ultrawide camera with Macro Focus capabilities lets you capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intricate close-ups with stunning clarity.Googles AI features transform good photos into extraordinary ones. The new Add Me feature lets you jump into group photos youve taken, while Best Take ensures everyone looks their best by combining multiple shots. Magic Editor takes photo manipulation to new heights, allowing you to reframe, resize, and even reimagine entire scenes with just a few taps.Gemini, Googles latest AI assistant, makes the Pixel 9 more than just a camera powerhouse. The new Gemini Live feature follows your conversations naturally, understanding context and switching topics seamlessly. Its like having a personal assistant who actually understands you. Gemini is capable of doing so much more with the photos you take, and it runs so snappily thanks to the tech under the hood.Being unlocked means freedom to choose your carrier and plan. The Pixel 9 works with all major US carriers, including Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Google Fi, ensuring youre never locked into a specific network. Thats especially useful if youre someone who likes to shop around for new phone service should your old provider get too pricey, as they often do.At $699, the Pixel 9 offers incredible value for anyone seeking a premium smartphone experience. Whether youre a photography enthusiast, a multitasking professional, or someone who wants the latest AI features at their fingertips, this deal makes Googles most advanced phone yet surprisingly attainable.See at Amazon

Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge / Rmulo Neto ArquitetosSave this picture! Ivo Tavares StudioInstallations & Structures, Pedestrian BridgeVagos, Aveiro, PortugalArchitects: Rmulo Neto ArquitetosAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:375 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 ManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: MWT Metalworking Technologies, Pavidren, R6 LivingMore SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. The local government challenged us to design a new pedestrian and cycling crossing between the banks of Vagos and Sousa. The old bridge, built on June 27, 1855, and closed in 1978, is currently in ruins and should be preserved as an integral part of the landscape and the historical memory of the site. However, being aware that the ruins may eventually disappear over time, the main challenge was to design a "museum bridge" that would enhance the existing structure, while simultaneously having its own identity and being capable of enduring and functioning autonomously in the future.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!After analyzing and studying the possible solutions for the location, we identified that a crossing with a curve and counter-curve would be the ideal option, as it would allow continuous visual interaction with the ruin along the route. The new bridge was conceived as a true "museum bridge," providing a unique experience: the view of the ruin is permanent while it still exists, and it can be appreciated both during the crossing and directly below the new structure.Save this picture!Save this picture!We chose a clean design approach, using materials with colors and textures that complement the surrounding environment, such as corten steel and wood. The organic nature of the shape was a key element in minimizing the visual impact of the structure on the landscape, ensuring that the new bridge harmoniously integrates into the natural environment, even in the future absence of the ruin.Save this picture!Save this picture!Given that the projects budget could not exceed 180,000 + VAT, we had to find solutions that were both functional and economical. Thus, the construction method was designed to optimize resources: the bridge was designed in five parts, with each segment not exceeding 14 meters in length. This approach eliminated the need for special transportation, reduced logistical costs, and allowed for an agile and efficient assembly on-site. Furthermore, the scale was carefully adjusted to the program, ensuring a minimum width of 2.50 meters to accommodate both the cycling track and pedestrian traffic.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!At the transitions of the bridge ramps, leisure spaces with flat areas were created, where benches were installed. These spaces provide resting points, fishing spots, and the opportunity to enjoy the view, making the crossing not only functional but also a place for socializing and contemplation. The volume of the bridge appears subtly, without interfering with the surrounding landscape. The structures placement evokes the undulations and curves characteristic of the marine environment, strategically positioning itself to visually integrate with the existing ruin. However, the new bridge was designed to be independent, ensuring that its relevance and functionality remain intact even in the future absence of the ruin, perpetuating its value as an element of connection, experience, and design.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:Vagos, Aveiro, PortugalLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officeMaterialWoodMaterials and TagsPublished on April 03, 2025Cite: "Cycle and Pedestrian Crossing Over the Fareja Bridge / Rmulo Neto Arquitetos" [Travessia Ciclvel e Pedonal Sobre a Ponte de Fareja / Rmulo Neto Arquitetos] 03 Apr 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028683/cycle-and-pedestrian-crossing-over-the-fareja-bridge-romulo-neto-arquitetos&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Rethink the Power of Daylight: Redefining Horizontal Spaces with Vertical LightSponsored ContentSave this picture!Let the Children Play. Image Courtesy of VELUXArchitecture goes beyond its fundamental function of defining spaces and providing protection; it shapes the user experience, influencing sensations of comfort, spaciousness, and well-being. Among the many elements that make up a building, openings play a crucial role in connecting the interior and exterior, balancing privacy with transparency, and allowing the entry of natural light and ventilation. In particular, natural light transforms environments, defines atmospheres, and enhances architectural details, making spaces more dynamic and inviting.Windows, once simple openings in walls, have evolved through advancements in materials and technology, maximizing efficiency and expanding their role in architectural design. If Gothic architecture showcased marvelous glazing through towering stained glass windows, modern architecture shifted toward horizontal forms and fully glazed facades, transforming how daylight is integrated into spaces. However, relying solely on facade glazing presents a limitationnatural light is often confined to the building's perimeter, leaving central areas in shadow. Overhead openings, such as skylights and flat roof windows, overcome this challenge by channeling daylight deep into interior spaces, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.Beyond their functional benefits, these openings serve as powerful aesthetic tools, sculpting interiors with light and shadow to define central spaces. This dynamic interplay enhances spatial perception, adding depth and visual interest. Additionally, roof windows contribute to natural ventilation, improving air circulation and overall indoor environmental quality. As a result, they have become essential elements in contemporary design, seamlessly merging efficiency with architectural expression.Below, we explore some key aspects to consider when specifying flat roof windows, highlighting their benefits and strategic applications for different projects.1. Understanding the Importance of Natural Light for Spaces and UsersBeyond enhancing spaces and reducing dependence on artificial lighting, natural illumination plays a crucial role in user comfort and health by regulating circadian rhythms and improving the experience of performing household tasks. To ensure adequate lighting levels, specific regulations establish guidelines on the sizing and distribution of openings in buildings. The European standard EN 17037, for instance, recommends that at least 50% of occupied areas receive sufficient illuminance during half of the daylight hours of the year.Save this picture!Illuminance is measured in lux (lx), an International System unit representing the amount of luminous flux incident on a surface, equivalent to one lumen per square meter. Its analysis can be performed through lux meter measurements, computer simulations, manual calculations, and qualitative assessments, considering factors such as solar orientation, window size and positioning, glass light transmittance, and impact on visual comfort. Different spaces require different lighting levels: kitchens and dining rooms demand 500 lux; bedrooms and bathrooms, 300 lux; home offices and study areas, 500 lux; while hallways and staircases need 100 lux for safe navigation.2. Expanding New Horizons with Flat Roof WindowsIn this context, flat roof windows stand out as efficient architectural solutions, maximizing light entry and ensuring a more uniform distribution of illumination, even in deeper areas far from conventional windows. In buildings with flat roofs, traditional faade windows limit light penetration to about 3.5 meters from the exterior wall. However, overhead windows overcome this limitation by allowing natural light to enter directly from above, ensuring consistent daylight throughout the space.Save this picture!In addition to their lighting benefits, overhead windows also improve indoor air quality. By facilitating natural ventilation, they increase the air renewal rate from 1.5 to up to 2.5 per hour, reducing pollutant concentrations and providing greater thermal comfort. This enhanced airflow creates healthier environments, benefiting both occupant well-being and the building's energy efficiency.Save this picture!3. Choosing the Most Suitable Type for Each ProjectVELUX, a Danish company specializing in roof windows and skylights, is known for its innovative solutions that enhance natural light and ventilation in residential and commercial buildings. While best known for its sloped roof windows, VELUX also offers a range of flat roof windows, modular skylights, and smart home integration systems designed to improve indoor comfort and energy efficiency. Here are the main types available:VELUX Curved glass rooflight: Its unique curved glass top ensures efficient water drainage, even on roofs with a 0 pitch, while the slim frame and invisible sash maximize daylight and outdoor views. For added comfort, optional blinds provide heat protection, blackout capabilities, and insect resistance, making it a perfect addition to any space.VELUX Flat glass rooflight: Featuring a slim frame and an invisible sash, it maximizes daylight and outdoor views, even with blinds installed. Designed for roof pitches between 2-15 degrees, this rooflight is available in fixed, electric, and solar-powered versions. The electric model includes a seamlessly integrated motor, a pre-paired wall switch, and a rain sensor for automatic closing. The solar version operates wirelessly, making it ideal for renovations without existing wiring, with reliable battery performance even on cloudy days. To enhance indoor comfort, optional blinds provide heat reduction, blackout capabilities, and insect protection, ensuring a bright, comfortable, and energy-efficient living space.VELUX Dome with glazing: Suitable for roof pitches between 0-15 degrees, it features an insulated base unit with a two-layer insulating glass unit and inner laminated glass. The top unit is available in clear or opaque acrylic or polycarbonate, offering either maximum daylight or increased privacy. Available in fixed, manual, and electric versions, the dome ensures flexibility for different needs. The electric model includes a rain sensor and pre-paired wall switch, with smart home compatibility for seamless control. Manual operation is enabled via a telescopic rod for natural ventilation.VELUX Dome: A durable and practical daylight solution for uninhabited spaces such as warehouses, garages, sheds, and small industrial buildings with flat roofs (0-15 pitch). It features a 2- or 3-layer opaque polycarbonate or acrylic dome without glazing. Available in fixed, manual, and electric versions, it provides flexible ventilation options. The 230V electric model includes pre-mounted brackets for easy motor installation and is compatible with standard electrical outlets and switches. For added safety, a fall-through grid is available.Save this picture!4. Strategically Placing Skylights: Where and How to Install ThemThe effectiveness of flat roof windows depends on several factors, including roof thickness, positioning, glazing type, and technical specifications, all of which directly impact natural light distribution, energy efficiency, and thermal comfort. A single large skylight (e.g., 10001000 mm) generally provides more even and efficient illumination than multiple smaller ones, reducing shadow patterns and abrupt light variations. In open-plan spaces, this can enhance the perception of spaciousness while maintaining a comfortable light level throughout the day. Conversely, multiple smaller skylights can be beneficial in corridors or areas where localized light is preferred. Strategic positioning is equally crucial. Centrally placed skylights help achieve uniform light distribution, while task-oriented placementsuch as above kitchen countertops, workstations, or reading areasimproves functionality and visual comfort.Save this picture!5. Understanding the sun's pathUnderstanding the sun's path is essential when determining the optimal placement of skylights, as it directly influences daylight quality, indoor temperature, and energy efficiency. Unlike vertical windows, which have a fixed orientation, flat roof windows face all directions, allowing for more versatile light exposure. While overshadowing from surrounding elements can affect the amount of light received, the window itself is not limited by a specific orientation.The amount of direct sunlight a flat roof window receives is heavily influenced by latitude. In equatorial regions, flat roof windows will receive direct sunlight year-round. At higher latitudes, sunlight exposure changes with the seasons. A roof window can offset the limitations of vertical windowsfor instance, if a room has a north-facing window (in the northern hemisphere) that receives minimal direct sunlight, adding a flat roof window can introduce natural light from the south at specific times of the year.Save this picture!6. Opt for Smart Glass: Enhancing Comfort, Efficiency, and ProtectionIncorporating advanced glass technologies in skylights enhances thermal performance, energy efficiency, and overall indoor comfort. One of the most effective solutions is low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, which features a microscopic coating that reflects heat while allowing natural light to enter, minimizing heat gain in summer and helps retain warmth in winter, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems. Additionally, skylights with UV protection and solar control coatings serve as a thermal shield, filtering excessive sunlight to prevent overheating and glare. These innovations create a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and visually balanced indoor environment.Save this picture!7. Simulating Reality Through Computer ModelingAssessing whether a design meets daylighting expectations or requirements may not always be standard practice. To support this process, VELUX has developed a free, user-friendly software tool: VELUX Daylight Visualizer. This program accurately simulates light quality in spaces through photorealistic visualizations and mapping, allowing for detailed analysis of luminance, illuminance, and light distribution across different times and climatic conditions. It also enables the simulation of solar control devices, such as light tubes and blinds, while supporting 3D modeling and BIM/CAD imports. Additionally, it generates automated reports to validate compliance with the European Standard EN 17037, ensuring precise, high-quality daylighting analyses.Save this picture!8. Beyond IlluminationA Fundamental Architectural ElementFlat roof windows go beyond being simple light sources; they become essential elements in architectural design. Their strategic use maximizes the benefits of natural light, contributes to defining the building's visual identity, enhances environmental comfort, and reduces energy consumption. By integrating natural light as a design element, architects can create more sustainable, expressive, and healthy spaces. Careful selection of the type, placement, and applied technologies for overhead windows enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of buildings, providing brighter, more efficient, and more pleasant environments for users.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorEduardo SouzaAuthorCite: Eduardo Souza. "Rethink the Power of Daylight: Redefining Horizontal Spaces with Vertical Light" 03 Apr 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028002/rethink-the-power-of-daylight-redefining-horizontal-spaces-with-vertical-light&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream