A robotic hand with vibration sensors in the fingertips can grasp apples and oranges with just the right amount of forceAnway S. Pimpalkar et al. (2024)/CC BY 4.0A robotic hand inspired by human skin can sense how hard an object is with a single digits touch and work out how much force is needed to grip it before the rest of the hand closes its grasp.Gripping an object firmly enough to secure it, but softly enough that it doesnt break, is something that humans learn as infants, but robots still struggle with.

HealthIn the first two years of the covid-19 pandemic, numerous New Scientist covers were dedicated to the global emergency caused by the virus. Together, they tell a story of resilience and scientific achievement 1 January 2025 In the first two years of the covid-19 pandemic, New Scientist published almost two dozen editions with reports about the virus and related matters on the cover an unprecedented run in our nearly 70-year history. They tell a story about our evolving understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, beginning with our 8 February 2020 magazine (above), when it was still known only as the novel coronavirus.Just a month later, we went with a bold declaration: this was now a global pandemic. It wasnt an easy decision, given the World Health Organization wasnt yet ready to use the word, but the strength of our reporting and the need to inform readers meant we felt we had to. A week later, the WHO finally took the same line.AdvertisementEven so, it was still unthinkable then that the virus would claim a million lives, a brutal toll that was flagged up on the front of our 19 September 2020 edition. The design of this was a deliberate reference to our earlier pandemic issue, a testament to the scale of the loss in such a short time span.Likenesses of the virus, with its infamous surface spike proteins that put the word corona (Latin for crown) in coronavirus, became emblematic. We examined its lingering impact with our special on long covid on 31 October 2020 and our Generation covid cover on 18 September 2021.For me, looking back at these dredges up a strange mix of emotions, from fear to pain to disbelief at what we all lived through. But I am also proud that the team at New Scientist was able to bring readers the information they needed, and hopefully some light in dark times.Topics:covid-19

ALABAMA: Kool Korner Sandwiches in Vestavia HillsCuban sandwich from Kool Korner Sandwiches. Owen C./Yelp What to order: Cuban sandwichWhat customers say: "I think they do a good job with what they serve, what more can you ask for? We ordered a Classic Cuban Sandwich and a Hot Cuban Tamales. Both were fresh and hot when we got it. The sandwich bread was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, so how a good sandwich should be. The Cuban tamales are not served with sauce like Mexican tamales, but it's very flavorful on its own and not dry at all. I would definitely recommend you trying it if you haven't before," wrote Yelp user Virginia H.Learn more about Kool Korner Sandwiches here. ALASKA: Mike's Alaskan Eatery in HomerThe Mariner sandwich from Mike's Alaskan Eatery. Allie N./Yelp What to order: The MarinerWhat customers say: "Oh my goodness this sandwich (The Mariner) was good!!! It was the perfect way to start the day being a tourist in Homer. The chicken was so tasty, and the texture was perfect for the sandwich. The sauce tied all the veggies, chicken, and bacon together. I think my ONLY complaint was that it was really small and a little confusing that we had to sit in the next-door Boba place," wrote Yelp user Allie N.Learn more about Mike's Alaskan Eatery here. ARIZONA: Frank's New York Style Deli in PhoenixFrank's New York Style Deli Italian sandwich. Kyle B./Yelp What to order: The TonyWhat customers say: "Great sandwiches, nice to find good Italian meats in the desert. Had the Tony, tasted just like out east," wrote Yelp user Nathan P.Learn more about Frank's New York Style Deli here. ARKANSAS: American Artisans Eatery & Gallery in MenaSpicy chicken wrap and the bisque soup from American Artisans Eatery & Gallery. Anita T./Yelp What to order: Funky ChickenWhat customers say: "Very cute local restaurant! We stopped here while doing a scenic fall drive in the area. I had the Big Cheese with bacon and my husband had the Funky Chicken. The service is good, the prices are average and everyone that was working was nice to us. Both of us enjoyed lunch and the ambiance," wrote Yelp user Monica E.American Artisans is temporarily closed, but reopens on January 22, 2025.Learn more about American Artisans Eatery & Gallery here. CALIFORNIA: Prunedale Market in PrunedaleTri-Tip Sandwich from Prunedale Market. Megan M./Yelp What to order: Tri-tip sandwichWhat customers say:"Tri-tip sandwich was delicious, meat cooked to perfection and well seasoned. Owner offered the best customer service super nice and kind! The little sitting area had a map where you can pin where are you from too! For sure will come back," wrote Yelp user Pia M.Learn more about Prunedale Market here. COLORADO: European Market & Bistro in LakewoodProsciutto basil sandwich from European Market & Bistro. Matt C./Yelp What to order: Prosciutto basil sandwichWhat customers say: "Ordered the small prosciutto basil sandwich and I would order it again and again. Reasonable prices too," wrote Yelp user Emma S.Learn more about European Market & Bistro here. CONNECTICUT: The Dilly Duck Shop in NorwalkRoast beef sandwich from The Dilly Duck Shop. Haleigh K./Yelp What to order: Roast beef sandwichWhat customers say: "The roast beef sandwich was the best one my wife ever had. That is saying a lot as she gets roast beef everywhere. I had the tuna sandwich with arugula and Swiss it was also fantastic," wrote Yelp user Sergio P.Learn more about The Dilly Duck Shop here. DELAWARE: Gaudiello's Italian Hoagies in WilmingtonGaudiello's Italian Hoagies cheesesteak sandwich. Kimberly A./Yelp What to order: Philly cheesesteak sandwichWhat customers say:"Absolutely the best, fresh sliced to order for the best cheesesteak you'll ever have, and I grew up in Philly and AC eating nothing but cheesesteaks. So give it a try," wrote a Yelp user.Learn more about Gaudiello's Italian Hoagies here. FLORIDA: Franky's Deli Warehouse in HialeahFranky's Deli Warehouse Italian sandwich on wheat bread. Franky's Deli Warehouse/Yelp What to order: Italian sandwichWhat customers say: "The sandwiches at Frankie's are nothing short of exceptional. Whether you opt for a classic Italian sub bursting with flavors or a creative vegetarian option, each bite is a testament to their commitment to quality ingredients and skilled craftsmanship," wrote Yelp user Beatriz A.Learn more about Franky's Deli Warehouse here. GEORGIA: Java Saga in DoravilleABC sandwich from Java Saga. Mary Y./Yelp What to order: ABC (The "American Born Chinese")What customers say: "I ordered their famous ABC sandwich. It was a huge portion and the flavor was very unexpected. It was sweet, smoky, and crunchy! This particular sandwich came with a slaw and sweet pickles on it. It was an interesting flavor combination, unlike anything else that I've ever tried," wrote Yelp user Nisha B.Learn more about Java Saga here. HAWAII: No Name BBQ Sandwich in HonoluluVietnamese sandwich from No Name BBQ Sandwich. Corina Q./Yelp What to order: Vietnamese sandwichWhat customers say: "My go-to all the time is the Vietnamese sandwich. The bread hit the spot! Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Packed with pork, Vietnamese sausages, and lots of veggies. It's super juicy and don't forget to add the spicy sauce to add that kick of spiciness," wrote Yelp user Pamela P.Learn more about No Name BBQ Sandwich here. IDAHO: Midtown Deli in Post FallsReuben sandwich from Midtown Deli. Mora C./Yelp What to order: Reuben sandwichWhat customers say:"Wow, wow, wow! Tried this place for the first time today and was not disappointed. The Reuben sandwich is amazing. A half is plenty large enough for one person. Not to mention the gals that work here are the sweetest! Home-made soups and desserts as well. I'll be back to try all the things," wrote Yelp user Becca P.Learn more about Midtown Deli here. ILLINOIS: Firenze Italian Street Food in ChicagoSpicy soppressata sandwich from Firenze Italian Street Food. Rostam Z./Yelp What to order: Spicy soppressata sandwichWhat customers say: "I ordered the spicy soppressata sandwich for lunch. The ingredients were fresh and I loved the bite of spiciness followed by the creaminess of the ricotta spread. The flavors really melded well," wrote Yelp user Samuel A.Learn more about Firenze Italian Street Food here. INDIANA: Subito in IndianapolisBrisket French dip from Subito. Erik T./Yelp What to order: The DipWhat customers say: "Our company ordered in Subito for lunch and the brisket French dip was delicious! Tender and thinly sliced it was not chewy at all. The provolone and mayo made for almost a cheesy sauce, and the ciabatta was hearty enough not to fall apart when devouring this mighty sandwich! Even the Caesar side salad was tasty and well crafted," wrote Yelp user Erik T.Learn more about Subito here. IOWA: Charlotte's Kitchen in JohnstonCharlotte's Kitchen crab rangoon chicken sandwich with fries. C C./Yelp What to order: Crab rangoon chicken sandwichWhat customers say: "I got the crab rangoon sandwich, let's start with the chicken itself. The breading is tasty, the chicken is juicy. It's good all on its own. Then you add the extras. A lovely cream cheese spread, a wonderful sweet chili sauce with wonton strips and lettuce. It's a surprise from the first bite and a wonderful one. One of the best chicken sandwiches in town," wrote Yelp user Eric C.Learn more about Charlotte's Kitchen here. KANSAS: Tanya's Soup Kitchen in WichitaTomato bisque and club sandwich from Tanya's Soup Kitchen. Elaine M./Yelp What to order: Chef's ClubWhat customers say:"We ordered the Chef's Club sandwich, Cindy the Boy sandwich, chicken curry soup, and the tomato curry, they were amazing," wrote Yelp user Jill K.Learn more about Tanya's Soup Kitchen here. KENTUCKY: Heavens To Betsy! Bakery in LawrenceburgGrilled cheese and tomato soup from Heavens To Betsy! Bakery. Michelle K./Yelp What to order: Italian sandwichWhat customers say: "My husband and I split the spicy Italian sandwich, he had a side of potato salad. It was delicious! Piping hot upon delivery, if you are splitting a sandwich, let them know, and they will cut them in half for you," wrote Yelp user Veronica B.Learn more about Heavens To Betsy! Bakery here. LOUISIANA: The Milk Bar in New OrleansRoast beef sandwich from The Milk Bar. Tim C./Yelp What to order: Occidental OrientalWhat customers say: "Milk Bar has hearty sandwiches with flavorful combinations from simple to unusual made with love by a lovely local couple who love and know their community. Offerings have vegetarian options and great salads, too," wrote Yelp user Cynthia C.Learn more about The Milk Bar here. MAINE: CERA in PortlandNashville Samurai sandwich from CERA. CERA/Yelp What to order: Nashville SamuraiWhat customers say:"My husband loved his Italian sando, and we also split the Nashville Samurai, which was made with Japanese karaage and local honey it was perfectly sweet and spicy," wrote Yelp user Naomi S.Learn more about CERA here. MARYLAND: Full On Craft Eats & Drinks in AnnapolisCrab cake sandwich from Full On Craft Eats & Drinks. Shanel S./Yelp What to order: Crab cake sandwichWhat customers say: "The crab cake sandwich has some big lumps of crab throughout, which is nice to see because a lot of restaurants will spread the lumps down. The cobb salad is also another one of my favorites," wrote Yelp user Lia H.Learn more about Full On Craft Eats & Drinks here. MASSACHUSETTS: Mae's Sandwich Shop in MarshfieldRoast beef sandwich from Mae's Sandwich Shop. Daniel L./Yelp What to order: Lazy SusanWhat customers say: "One of the better sandwiches I've ever had. Was staying in Plymouth for a weekend with some local friends and they couldn't have recommended a better spot just up the road. Fresh bread and fresh ingredients made the sandwich a knockout. Highly recommend the orzo salad too," wrote Yelp user Ian M.Mae's Sandwich Shop is currently closed for its winter break, but reopens on January 24.Learn more about Mae's Sandwich Shop here. MICHIGAN: Ernie's Market in Oak ParkMonster sandwich from Ernie's Market. Daniel H./Yelp What to order: The MonsterWhat customers say: "I had the Monster sandwich and it was pure heaven on an onion roll! So much flavor! Certainly worth the drive from the Eastside," wrote Yelp user Adrian G.Learn more about Ernie's Market here. MINNESOTA: Zuppa Cucina in ShakopeeCiabatta tuna and vegetable minestrone soup from Zuppa Cucina. Lexi L./Yelp What to order: Tuna CiabattaWhat customers say: "Everything always goes well consistent for the many years I've been enjoying their menu. The food is fresh and of higher-than-average quality. Service is as good and professional. Ambiance clean and overhead menu. Daily specials. Don't miss this place," wrote Yelp user Rickie G.Learn more about Zuppa Cucina here. MISSISSIPPI: The Grind Coffee and Nosh in BiloxiKathys Kickin' Reuben sandwich and chips from The Grind Coffee and Nosh. Orlando L./Yelp What to order: Kathy's Kickin' ReubenWhat customers say:"Great vibes, friendly staff, and quick service! TheReubenis great, and the potato salad was delicious. Will definitely be back," wrote a Yelp user Ashton D.Learn more about The Grind Coffee and Nosh here. MISSOURI: Blues City Deli in St. LouisRoast beef sandwich from Blues City Deli. Bill S./Yelp What to order: Original roast beef sandwichWhat customers say: "My boyfriend goes back and forth between the roast beef and turkey. Got the beef this time. Long lines often but it goes quickly. Never any complaints other than we wish they were open later," wrote Yelp user Deyna J.Learn more about Blues City Deli here. MONTANA: Tagliare Delicatessen in MissoulaThe megadeath sandwich from Tagliare Delicatessen. Tagliare Delicatessen/Yelp What to order: MegadeathWhat customers say: "New Jerseyans recommended Tagliare, and that was good enough for us. They were spot on and led us to a delicious lunch. All the sandwiches are named for Bands, which was an added kick. We ordered a Zeppelin (turkey, dry salami, pastrami, provolone, greens, balsamic marinated onions, and oil & vinegar) and Pretenders (fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and marinated onions). My Pretenders was scrumptious, a caprese that had gone to college," wrote a Yelp user named Laura S.Learn more about Tagliare Delicatessen here. NEBRASKA: Banhwich Cafe in LincolnThe spicy Thai chicken sandwich from Banhwich Cafe. Banhwich Cafe/Yelp What to order: Spicy Thai chicken sandwichWhat customers say: "A MUST TRY in Lincoln! There are so many options and combinations to try to fit your cravings. My spouse loves spicy and always gets #2 with extra meat and I always get the Korean BBQ, love me some kimchi and spicy mayo. Don't forget your sweet tooth! You have to get a boba tea and try the green waffle," wrote Yelp user Annie S.Learn more about Banhwich Cafe here. NEVADA: Panino in Las VegasThe Muffaletta sandwich from Panino Jeff. B/ Yelp What to order: Italian sandwichWhat customers say: "I found this place driving home from work one day. This should be an extremely busy lunch spot and should be crawling with people. It's definitely a hole in the wall, but one of the best mom 'n pop sandwich places I've been to," wrote Yelp user Randy L.Learn more about Panino here. NEW HAMPSHIRE: Jon's Roast Beef & Deli in LaconiaA small boardwalk sandwich featuring Southwest chicken, lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing with melted cheddar from Jon's Roast Beef & Deli in Laconia. Jon's Roast Beef & Deli in Laconia/ Yelp What to order: The Pilgrim sandwichWhat customers say: "Walking into John's you immediately get the feeling you're entering an old fashioned sandwich shop, not a fast food joint. I got two roast beef sandwiches and they were both delicious. Great service and food. I'll definitely be a repeat customer. Highly recommended!" wrote Yelp user Peter T.Learn more about Jon's Roast Beef & Deli here. NEW JERSEY: Saigon Subs & Caf in MorristownThe Saigon special sandwich. Kat J./Yelp What to order: Braised pork belly banh miWhat customers say: "Saigon Subs and Caf has been on so many top food lists in New Jersey that I had to try it! [...] I would definitely come again for this chicken sandwich. This is one of the top places to eat in Morristown," wrote Yelp user Todd C.Learn more about Saigon Subs & Caf here. NEW MEXICO: Coda Bakery in AlbuquerqueFried Tofu sandwich from Coda bakery. Aram K./Yelp What to order: Fried tofu banh miWhat customers say: "I love everything about this Vietnamese bakery delicious food and great value! The grilled pork is delicious on anything (spring rolls, banh mi, vermicelli bowls, you name it!) and their pastries are so buttery and rich. The tofu is also great, nicely fried and super soft inside. Grilled chicken is also great and flavorful! Portion size is great, and even the salads are delicious," wrote Yelp user Su Yee-L.Learn more about Coda Bakery here. NEW YORK: Tony's Beechhurst Deli in WhitestoneTony's special sandwich with fresh mozzarella. Emily C./Yelp What to order: Chicken cutlet sandwichWhat customers say: "Food, service, ambiance, EVERYTHING about this place screams Italy! The ingredients are so fresh & delicious. I recommend getting a simple panini press. The bread is to die for!!!! Definitely top 2 delis and it ain't 2. (I got ham & muenster cheese with sweet and hot peppers in a panini press) I will be dreaming about it until further notice," wrote Yelp user Nikol P.Learn more about Tony's Beechhurst Deli here. NORTH CAROLINA: Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market in Nags HeadTurkey and feta cheese on wheat bread. Lena M./Yelp What to order: Eddie V sandwichWhat customers say: "Waveriders is a must for breakfast when we're in OBX. The combinations they have are great, and the ability to make modifications is easy. I ordered online for ASAP pickup at 7:45am and the food was ready at 7:56am. This is included 4 sandwiches and two ice coffees. Highly recommend!" wrote Yelp user Tina M.Learn more about Waveriders Coffee, Deli & Market here. NORTH DAKOTA: Magic City Hoagies in MinotThe farmer sandwich topped with crispy jalapenos from Magic City Hoagies. Magic City Hoagies/Yelp What to order: Chicago Italian beefWhat customers say: "I travel for work a lot. When I know I'm passing by Minot I will plan my day to ensure I'm here for lunch. Friendly and courteous staff, clean establishment and a great location downtown. The owner knows her sandwiches and her passion and attention to every detail comes through in the finished product. [...] I would provide a photo of the beautiful monthly special I just picked up, however I inhaled it faster than than my cameras shutter speed could capture... should have gotten the 12"er!" wrote Yelp user Nathan A.Learn more about Magic City Hoagies here. OHIO: Newfangled Kitchen in BexleyThe Chatty Kathy sandwich from Newfangled Kitchen. Taylor B./Yelp What to order: Bella DonnaWhat customers say: "When I say that their Shipyard Tuna Melt is the best tuna melt I've ever had, I'm not lying. Maybe even the best sandwich or best lunch I've ever eaten," wrote Yelp user Jane G.Learn more about Newfangled Kitchen here. OKLAHOMA: The Mule in Oklahoma CityThe macaroni pony sandwich from The Mule. Talara T./Yelp What to order: Macaroni PonyWhat customers say: "The mule is an excellent choice for lunch or casual dining. The restaurant is fun with a good vibe. Good food, varied menu, good service, and moderate prices. My favorites are the Macaroni Pony and the Philly Cheese Steak, but all their sandwiches are hearty and delectable. Their soups are good. Their half sandwich and cup of soup is a good lunch offering. Their fried cheese curds are excellent," wrote Yelp user William Y.Learn more about The Mule here.

HGTV's "The Flip Off" is premiering on January 29, 2025.Christina Haack will compete against Tarek El Moussa and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa.Haack's ex, Josh Hall, was originally supposed to star in the show."Flip or Flop" stars Christina Haack and Tarek El Moussa are reuniting on HGTV nearly three years after their hit show ended."The Flip Off" is a six-episode, competition-style series that will pit Haack against Tarek and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa. It's premiering on HGTV on January 29, 2025.Haack was originally supposed to team up with Josh Hall on the series, but they suddenly split in July, leaving Haack to compete alone.Here's everything we know about the show so far.'The Flip Off' is a competition seriesHGTV announced that Tarek El Moussa, Heather Rae El Moussa, Christina Haack, and Josh Hall were filming "The Flip Off" on May 15, describing the series as "a battle to see who can find, buy, renovate, and flip a house for the biggest financial gain."Tarek and Haack who were previously married and share two kids flipped houses together on "Flip or Flop" for nine years, filming the show even after they separated in 2016. The series ended in 2022.After it wrapped, Tarek continued flipping homes on his other HGTV series, "Flipping 101" and "The Flipping El Moussas." At the same time, Haack turned to renovating homes for clients in "Christina on the Coast" and "Christina in the Country."They were set to team up with their new spouses for the coming show and harness their years of experience in home flipping to compete against each other.However, in July, Hall and Haack filed for divorce less than three years after they got married.HGTV did not immediately announce how the split would impact "The Flip Off," but on July 23, E! News reported that Tarek and Heather told paparazzi "production is still going as planned without Josh" for the series.On December 12, HGTV confirmed Haack would do most of the competition alone."As 'The Flip Off' begins, Christina will start the competition against Tarek and Heather alongside her husband, but a sudden life change will bring a shocking twist," the network said in a press release. "With even more to prove on her own, Christina will turn to her trusted team, stopping at nothing to silence Tarek's endless bragging and beat him at his own flipping game."Heather, Tarek, and Haack serve as executive producers on the series.Haack will discuss her divorce on the showHGTV released a sneak peek of the series on December 12. Rather than spotlighting the flipped homes, the clip featured an intimate conversation between Tarek and Haack at her Newport Beach, California, home.In the clip, Haack told Tarek that her marriage to Hall had ended."Josh and I officially split up," she said."We had a blowup," she added. "Middle fingers in my face."Haack also said things with Hall had "been bad for a long time.""The kids literally asked me to leave," she told Tarek. "They told me he's not nice to me. Why would I stick around?""I feel like I'm in a tornado all the time, and I just can't get out of it," she said.When contacted by Business Insider for this story, a source close to Hall said he "has no public comment on private matters. Once again, Josh has moved on and does not want to live in the past. His life is not a reality show."In the clip, Haack and Tarek's conversation turned to her life since they separated in 2016, and the exes apologized to each other. Tarek El Moussa and Christina Haack starred in "Flip or Flop." HGTV "Everything since, like, 2016 has been so hard and so horrible," Haack said as she cried. "It's really taken a really bad toll on me.""I'm really sorry for shit, too," she said to Tarek. "I really am. I just want you to know.""I understand that feeling of being a little bit lost," Tarek said. "And I acknowledge that I'm a big part, if not the entire part, of all of this."Hall will appear in episode oneHGTV shared another sneak peek of the series on Thursday. The network already indicated that Hall would appear in the premiere in its December 12 press release about the series, and the latest clip gave a preview of his screen time.The video showed Hall and Haack driving to the property they intended to flip together for the series. Haack was largely silent while Hall discussed the show, telling her he would do "whatever it takes to win."He also said, "Halls rule," and seemed irritated that Haack didn't respond or agree with him."Remember, you're a Hall now," he added. "Don't get confused in this competition about what your last name is."He went on to call Haack "rude" and said she annoys him when she speaks."You know how much shit you say and I'm just like, 'I wish you'd shut up already?'" Hall said."My wife's pissing me off already," he added.Other reality stars including another of Haack's exes will appear on the showHaack and the El Moussas will renovate one room of their chosen properties in each episode of "The Flip Off," a format borrowed from other HGTV series like "Rock the Block" and "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge."The El Moussas and Haack also tapped their celebrity community to judge their renovations.According to HGTV, the El Moussas and Haack will "take turns handpicking special guest judges to evaluate the transformed rooms based on design, use of space, quality of work, overall transformation, and added value." Each week's winner will get a $2,000 prize from the losing team to use in the following challenge.The judges include other reality TV stars, such as Amanza Smith from "Selling Sunset" and Heather Dubrow from "The Real Housewives of Orange County," as well as Tarek and Haack's mothers, Dominique El Moussa and Laurie Haack.The most notable guest judge might be Haack's other ex-husband, Ant Anstead. They were married from December 2018 to June 2021. Ant Anstead and Christina Haack in 2019. Noel Vasquez / Contributor / Getty Images Haack and Anstead's relationship was frosty following their divorce, particularly in April 2022 when they had a dramatic custody battle over their 5-year-old son, Hudson. They were able to reach a joint custody agreement in November 2022.The strain on their relationship seems to have mended in recent months, with Haack re-following Anstead on Instagram in August and telling Backgrid she wants to "get along" with Anstead for Hudson's sake, People reported.On November 7, Anstead was photographed on the set of "The Flip Off" with Haack, fueling rumors he was replacing Hall on the series. However, as a judge, he will likely only be in one episode of the show.The two-hour premiere of "The Flip Off" airs on January 29 at 8 p.m.

Tech founder Bryan Johnson has become the face of longevity; he's on a mission to live forever.A Netflix documentary details his journey into the world of longevity biohacking.I visited Johnson's home, and it's a bit different from what you see in the new Netflix doc.A new documentary has arrived on Netflix, just in time for New Year's resolution season. It followsBryan Johnson,or "that guy" in longevity, the tech founder who's tried pretty much everything from fasting toinfusing his son's blood plasma all to reverse-age his body.The doc, "Don't Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever," streaming now, attempts to peel back the curtain on Johnson, who's become a cult leader in longevity biohacking.As a reporter covering longevity, I've met Johnson several times over the past couple of years. We first met in September 2023 at the RAADfest a "Revolution Against Aging and Death" near Disneyland in California. I interviewed him in a hotel room to avoid crowds of his adoring fans.In October 2024, I visited him at home the same one depicted in "Don't Die." While the 90-minute doc travels back in time to Johnson's Utah roots in the Mormon church (along the way, we meet his parents, his eldest son Talmage, and his longtime business partner, Kate Tolo, who's largely responsible for Johnson's internet success), in real life, Johnson's home is a bit less picture-perfect than what viewers saw onscreen. Johnson working from home with Kate Tolo, his chief marketing officer. Netflix His house is HQ for a growing longevity brandAs the documentary shows, Johnson's home is a private, shrubbed-in concrete mansion on an unassuming Los Angeles street. It's a big, empty space perfect for filming everything from YouTube shorts to naked photo spreads.It's giving influencer; less of a home than a well-equipped stage with studio lights, sandbags, and social media staffers.Still, the house displays some small but humanizing details of his everyday life, ones we don't see as much of in the film.In addition to being a decent stage, this home is Johnson's safe house, seemingly shielding him from a world of potential pollutants in food, water, and air. The big windows all have UV filters. The water is purified. The fridge is full of nutty pudding prepared by his chef, and the garage has been transformed into a home gym.When I was there, I saw a few subtle signs that Johnson actually lived in the house: a half-empty bottle of ros left in the refrigerator door, some Xbox controllers on the couch, and family photos taped up above the kitchen range.His 'Don't Die' pitch versus scientific realityJohnson is always tweaking his longevity "protocols," but his ethos is consistent.He warns that corporate forces of fast food and institutionalized healthcare are making us sick. He told me he'd started his Blueprint corporation to offer people an alternative, to take control of their health and longevity.In many ways, he echoes Robert F. Kennedy' Jr's call to "Make America Healthy Again," extolling the health virtues of preventive care, clean eating, and hitting the gym.Johnson started his "Don't Die" brand with a specially-labeled olive oil. It now extends to a blood plasma microplastic test, a "Don't Die" app, and a line of powders, supplements, drinks, and prepared meals you can order online.The documentary highlights the deep disconnect between the influencing Johnson is doing online, and actual geroscience and human longevity research going on professionally.The film includes interviews with some of the world's most esteemed longevity scientists, including Dr. Andrea Maier, Brian Kennedy, Matt Kaeberlein, and Steve Horvath, the guy who pioneered the scientific idea of a "biological age."Perhaps the most apt scientific commentary in the film comes from Havard aging researcher, Vadim Gladyshev. "What Bryan does, I guess, brings attention to our field this will be positive," Gladyshev says. "But it has almost no contribution to science, right? It's not science. It's just attention."It's attention that many longevity clinics and elite longevity doctors are seeing drive new business. More than 70% of the 72 longevity clinicians who participated in an ongoing online survey by the websiteLongevity.Technology,said that they feel Johnson "contributes to" instead of "hinders" the progress of longevity medicine. Some say he helps grow awareness for what longevity scientists hope, but can't be sure, will be some real human longevity science advances someday. Johnson with his eldest son, Talmage. Netflix "We are experimenting, and we are trialing out, and I think we will have a revolution in the next coming 10 years of very specific interventions we can apply to humans," Maier says in the film.Whatever real-deal longevity interventions may exist for humans in the future will likely be tightly tailored to each individual, not one-size-fits-all protocols. Leading longevity scientists and doctors already agree on this. So far, not one supplement or drug has been proven to slow down human aging. Instead, longevity experts have said regular exercise and good nutrition can help.His following is growingAs I've covered longevity, I've met Johnson's followers, ranging from curious onlookers to devout copycats of his evolving formula.Onscreen, we watch an eye-popping transformation of a once devout Mormon kid, becoming a new dad in his 20s, then a stressed tech founder operating on minimal sleep, losing his faith and sinking into a deep depression.Johnson now has his own growing cult of followers worldwide. They throw dance parties and organize hikes from California to Singapore.Since filming wrapped, Johnson has traveled to China and India to promote the "Don't Die" movement in new countries. He's also created a new "Don't Die" app for his followers to connect with one another wherever they live. Johnson with his son and his dad, who each participated in a blood plasma exchange with him. Netflix Once the cameras were turned off and the show was over, I left the documentary feeling much like I did when I left his house.Johnson seems to be eagerly wrestling with how to live his healthiest, most fulfilled life. He's a dad of three who cried in the aisles of Target when his firstborn son went off to college. He's a dutiful son according to the documentary, he's the only person who visited his dad in jail.It seems what he's endlessly searching for along with peace and well-being is clicks, follows, and sales. It's a logical next business move for the guy who once ran Venmo: turning the longevity movement into one more thing we can shop for on the internet.

A new year has begun, and Lego is celebrating in style with absolutely blowing the last few quiet months of the year out of the window with ahuge amount of new sets starting right from January 1. Time to put aside those shiny piles of plastic bricks you just got for Christmas to ogle the next, even newer and shinier plastic bricks on the way this month: from sets big and small to Marvel, DC,Star Wars, and so much more. January is traditionally one of the biggest months in Legos calendar year in terms of the sheer quantity of new sets releasing, whether its across the brick makers stalwart lines like City, Creator,Dreamzzz,Monkie Kid, and more, to the big brand crossovers like Disney, the Marvel and DC Superhero lines, and of course, Lego Star Wars off the back of its blockbuster anniversary year last year. But theres so much more this month beyond that, especially on the gaming front with the long-awaited arrival of the Mario Kart line, and the return of a LegoSpace classic. Check out our breakdown of some of the biggest sets dropping in January 2025 below! Lego Icons Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Legos adults-focused Icons series is starting the year strong with some major releases, including the latest modular city building, inspired by historical British architecture, and something to tickle the nostalgia centers of any classic Space fan with the return of the villainous Blacktron. But theres also a few more down-to-earth sets, like a fancy Fountain Garden display, and a historical replica of Leonardo Da Vincis famous design for a flying machine (which, of course, comes with the first-ever Leonardo Da Vinci minifigure?). Leonardo Da Vincis Flying Machine, $50 Blacktron Renegade, $100 Fountain Garden, $100 Tudor Corner, $230 (Lego Insider access available now, general release 1/4) LegoAnimal Crossing Sets Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow After some big Island additions last year, theAnimal Crossing line is starting things off relatively small in 2025, but with a few keyNew Horizons additions, like the arrival of the Able Sisters clothing shop.Lego Creator 3-in-1 Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Legos 3-in-1 models always have some fun pulls, but the highlights this month for sci-fi and fantasy fans are the great Green Dragon, which feels ripped right out of classic Lego Castle, and the adorable Space Robotwho, more importantly, can also be built into an adorable Space Robot dog! Surprising Spider, $13 Race Plane, $15 Cute Bunny, $20 Playful Cat, $25 Space Robot, $25 Typewriter With Flowers, $30 Panda Family, $40 Medieval Dragon, $50 Lego DC Superheroes Sets Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Legos slowly but surely bringing back the DC superhero line, and sure, itsstill mostly Batman (including a very fun version of the Nolan trilogys tumbler this month), but hey! Theres at least one Superman set this month too!Lego Disney Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Moana 2 means that Moana gets to be the star of a few of this months Disney Princess sets, but theres a few regular staples here, like the latest iteration (amongmany) of Arendelles castles. LegoDreamzzzSets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Legos original animated series continues on with a veritable host of sets big and small, from tiny creative sets to massive mechs.Lego Jurassic World Sets Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Theres just a couple ofJurassic sets this month, including an adorable baby T. rex, and the next entry in the Dinosaur Fossils line: a buildable Triceratops skull. Lego Marvel Superheroes Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow After last month got theBrave New World tie-in sets out of the way, this month is a huge one for Marvel, covering original comics-inspired sets, MCU ones (including literally the Marvel logo!), and even anAcross the Spider-Verse riff with Miles and the Spot.LegoMinecraft Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow This monthsMinecraft theme is apparently houses shaped like animals, and its working for the mammalian architecture aesthetic of it all. LegoMonkie Kid Sets Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Theres just twoMonkie Kid sets arriving this month, but theyre both hefty ones, including a massive new mech and a fantastical Qilin right out of Chinese mythology. Mythical Creature Qilin, $70 Erlangs Celestial Mech, $90 LegoSonic the Hedgehog Sets Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Nothingdirectly inspired bySonic 3 to be found in the latest Sega sets, but you could definitely extrapolate, considering Super Shadow and Metal Sonic both get highlighted among the various minifigures here. Sonics Campfire Clash, $20 Cyclone vs Metal Sonic, $30 Super Shadow vs. Biolizard, $45 LegoStar Wars Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow Begun again, the Clone Wars have! The prequel trilogy andClone Wars are the big focus of this monthsStar Wars sets, as well as a couple of newMandalorian drops, including the latest buildable Grogu, who even comes with a hover pram to sit in. LegoMario Kart Sets Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Lego Click to open Slideshow TheSuper Mario line gives way toMario Kart this month, and as always with this collaboration, its never quite what people expect: out are the electronically enhanced playable figures of the Super Mario sets, and instead are buildable vehicles and riders and nary a minifigure to be found, as usual. Yoshi Bike, $15 Standard Kart, $20 Baby Mario vs Baby Luigi, $30 Donkey Kong and DK Jumbo, $35 Toads Garage, $40 Baby Peach and Grand Prix, $80 Lego Collectible Minifigures Series 27 Lego Finally, the latest wave of blind-boxed collectible Minifigures brings steampunk guys, cutesy monsters, and jetpacked racers to add to your shelf, with 12 new minifigures to find. ($5 per box, available here) Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, whats next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

By Isaac Schultz Published January 2, 2025 | Comments (1) | Commuters in Chicago during a winter storm in December 2022. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images Dont let 2024s record-warm autumn lull you into a fall sense of sweater weatherwinter is upon us, as an imminent polar vortex is set to remind the northern swathes of the United States. According to the National Weather Services Weather Prediction Center, the northwestern United States will experience heavy coastal rains and higher elevation snow, while the central and eastern U.S. will undergo surges of cold Arctic air. States bordering the Great Lakes will get anywhere between 6-12 inches of snow, while areas downwind of the lakes could get more. (An AccuWeather meteorologist stated that parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York will get up to two feet, or 61 centimeters, of snow). You can see a map of the weather prediction here; the NWS short forecast bulletin is valid through Saturday, January 4. Rain and snow showers will expand across the Northwest by Friday, according to the NWS, and a high pressure system over the Great Plains will send frigid air through the central and eastern U.S. into Monday. If youre curious about a specific location, the NWS has a handy tool that allows you to click anywhere in the country and get a short range forecast and writeup of the weather outlook in that area. According to AccuWeather, areas south of those getting snowfrom the Plains to the Ohio and Tennessee Valleyscould face a substantial amount of ice that could cause downed trees and power outages. Tis the season for it; On January 9, 2024, a massive winter storm rolled across the eastern U.S., dumping rain and snow across the affected states and even spawning tornadoes. The same preparation information goes for this storm as with most inclement weather events: Dont travel in hazardous conditions unless you have to, and make sure you have enough supplies at home to hunker down for a few days.The frigid front is a reminder that the polar vortex is not something that simply stays in the Arctic; as climate change occurs, the polar vortex can take on a wavelike pattern. A report published last month in Environmental Research: Climate investigated the trend. In essence, dont expect global warming to always cause temperatures to rise. Shifting climate patterns can disrupt the polar vortex, moving warmer air north and pushing colder air farther south. It seems really counterintuitive, but there will be plenty of ice, snow and frigid air in the Arctic winter for decades to come, and that cold can be displaced southward into heavily populated regions by Arctic heat waves, said Jennifer Francis, a co-author of the paper at the Woodwell Climate Research Center, in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration release.Nevertheless, the impending winter storm is aberrant from the National Weather Services overall predictions for the first quarter of 2025. In a report published in late December, the service predicted that, following a cold start to the new year, the temperature trends suggest warmer-than-normal conditions through March across the southern and eastern United States (below-average temperatures are predicted for the northwestern U.S.) Above-average precipitation numbers are predicted for the northwestern U.S. and the Great Lakes region, while below-average precipitation is expected across most of the the South. Suffice to say bundle up and stay safe if youre on the road! Were nearly two weeks into winter and the season is delivering its a frosty wallop for millions of Americans.Daily NewsletterYou May Also Like By Ed Cara Published December 26, 2024 By Matt Novak Published December 2, 2024 By Angely Mercado Published May 26, 2023 By Angely Mercado Published March 13, 2023 By Angely Mercado Published March 2, 2023 By Angely Mercado Published February 28, 2023

A judge in Florida has allowed a virtual reality simulation to be submitted as evidence during a case over aggravated assault in 2023, according to a local TV news station in Ft. Lauderdale. And it might be the first time the defense in any criminal court hearing in the country has been permitted to introduce VR into evidence. Miguel Albisu owns a wedding venue in Florida and was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly waving a gun at guests during an altercation. Albisus wife and son were allegedly attacked at the venue, with his wife sustaining an injury to her wrist, and Albisu was called to the scene. The question is whether Albisus decision to threaten those at the venue with a gun was a valid form of self-defense under Floridas Stand-Your-Ground laws. The defense attorney in the case, Ken Padowitz, commissioned an artist to concoct a simulation of the incident for the Oculus Quest 2 and Broward County Judge Andrew Siegel will allow it to be introduced at trial. The idea is to give everyone in the courtroom the defendants perspective.We put headsets on the judge, the prosecutors, and the witness and the judge was able to see from my clients own eyes, from his own perspective, what he faced when he was surrounded by intoxicated partygoers, Padowitz told WPLG. They grabbed him, and he felt at that point in time he needed to pull out his weapon to defend his own life and his property. News station Local10 in Florida even aired video from the courtroom in December showing the judge and others in court watching the animation. This isnt the first time an animated simulation has been introduced at trial, just the apparent first using virtual reality. Padowitz takes credit for being the first to see animation upheld as evidence in a criminal case back when he was a prosecutor in 1992.Since that time, we have evolved to this point where our abilities far exceed what we did in 1992, Padowitz told WPLG. So, what we are doing here today is not only did we show the judge a computer animation of what occurred prior to my client having to pull out that gun in self-defense for his life, but we also showed it in a virtual reality. The admittance of the VR simulation was allowed during a pre-trial hearing before a judge who will determine if the case is dismissed or goes to a jury trial. If it does go to trial, court proceedings are expected to resume in February.

Altos House / OSPA Arquitetura e UrbanismoSave this picture! Gabriel KonrathHousesCanela, BrazilArchitects: OSPA Arquitetura e UrbanismoAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:4015 ftYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2023 PhotographsPhotographs:Gabriel KonrathManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: Arkowood, Casa do Parquet, Deca, Parrilla Brasil, Santa Luzia, Suvinil Lead Architects: Carolina Corra, Manoela Peruzzo More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Located in a condominium surrounded by nature in the city of Canela, in the Serra Gacha region, Altos House was designed to serve as a weekend retreat for a family.Save this picture!On a plot with striking topography, the projects concept is based on the placement of a pure exposed concrete volume at the top of the site, where one can enjoy unobstructed views of the surroundings and privacy from the front street.Save this picture!From this vertical arrangement, the building is aligned with the southern side setback, creating a large outdoor leisure area facing north under the shade of existing Araucaria trees. While the front of the house is dedicated to social areas, the back houses the bedrooms, all of which have direct access to the patio.Save this picture!Save this picture!The main faade stands out due to the large cantilever of the upper volume, which also marks the covered entrance, carved into the topography. At night, the front face, even with the curtains closed, resembles a large backlit screen.Save this picture!A linear staircase divides the social and private spaces, leading to the rooftop terrace, where one can enjoy a lookout point with a low parapet that also serves as a bench. On the access level, in addition to the covered parking area, there is a wine cellar.Save this picture!The materiality of the project is quite elemental, featuring exposed concrete, glass enclosures, wood, and natural stone floors, conveying the idea of elegance through simplicity in the solutions. The interiors aim to use the same materials as the external finishes, creating synergy between the inside and the outside. The project is proposed as a backdrop for a daily life filled with enjoyment of the regions distinctive climate. The generous window frames seek to blur the boundaries between covered and uncovered areas, offering flexibility in layout depending on the external temperature and the residents preferences.Save this picture!Save this picture!Altos House is a residence for those who wish to enjoy the best that the Serra Gacha has to offer: tranquility and contact with nature.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessAbout this officeMaterialConcreteMaterials and TagsPublished on January 02, 2025Cite: "Altos House / OSPA Arquitetura e Urbanismo" [Casa Altos / OSPA Arquitetura e Urbanismo] 02 Jan 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1024709/altos-house-ospa-arquitetura-e-urbanismo&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

Bats are often synonymous with a dark and stormy night mostly for their association with vampires, the fact that theyre nocturnal, and thanks to media like Scooby-Doo. While bats may add an extra layer of eerie to nighttime, their presence in bad weather may actually be due to a migratory advancement.A new study in the journal Science explains how certain bats may use warm storm fronts to aid in cross-continental migration.Bats and Storm SurfingBat migration is notoriously difficult to study because of their nocturnal nature and high-frequency vocalizations. Unable to see or hear bats as they migrated, researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior (MPI-AB) devised a plan.After attaching tiny and lightweight sensors to 71 common noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula), the research team could track the bats as they made their spring migration across Europe.The data pulled from the sensors revealed something incredible. It appeared as though the bats surfed the warm storm fronts as a way to migrate further and use less energy.The sensor data are amazing! said lead study author Edward Hurme, a postdoctoral researcher at MPI-AB and the Cluster of Excellence Collective Behaviour at the University of Konstanz, in a press release.We dont just see the path that bats took, we also see what they experienced in the environment as they migrated. Its this context that gives us insight into the crucial decisions that bats made during their costly and dangerous journeys, said Hurme in the release.Novel Tracking TechnologyEngineers with the MPI-AB developed the novel tracking technology so that it was on 5 percent of the bats body weight and contained multiple sensors for tracking the bats movements and the air temperature around it. The new technology, dubbed ICARUS-TinyFoxBatt tag, also allows researchers to track the bats remotely compared to previous technology, where the research team would need to be close enough to the tagged animal to collect data.The new tags now collect the data daily and compress it into a 12-byte file before transmitting it back to the research team via a novel long-range network. The tags would transmit 1440 daily sensor measurements.The tags communicate with us from wherever the bats are because they have coverage across Europe much like a cell phone network, said senior author Timm Wild, who led the development of the ICARUS-TinyFoxBatt tag in his Animal-borne Sensor Networks group at MPI-AB, in a press release.Surprising Migration PatternsResearchers from MPI-AB decided to track the noctule bats because they are one of four bat species that migrate across Europe, especially the female who are more likely to spend winters in southern Europe before returning north in the spring.The research team attached the trackers to the female bats each spring for 3 years and tracked them for about four weeks during their migration. The results were surprising. It turns out the bats werent following a set path, like most migratory birds do.There is no migration corridor, said senior author Dina Dechmann from MPI-AB in a press release. We had assumed that bats were following a unified path, but we now see they are moving all over the landscape in a general northeast direction.Bats migrate in a sporadic path because they need to stop and feed much more frequently than migratory birds.The other striking observation that researchers noted was the sudden burst of departures.On certain nights, we saw an explosion of departures that looked like bat fireworks, said Hurme. We needed to figure out what all these bats were responding to on those particular nights.The sensors indicated a drop in pressure and a temperature rise these nights, meaning a storm was incoming.They were riding storm fronts, using the support of warm tailwinds, said Hurme.Read More: The Bumblebee Bat: The Smallest Mammal in the WorldStudying Bat MigrationResearchers noted from the collected data that during these storm fronts, the bats were using less energy as they traveled.Though there is still much more to learn about bat migration, this new technology is a great start. Understanding how bats migrate could help prevent unnecessary human-caused deaths, like collisions with wind turbines.Before this study, we didnt know what triggered bats to start migrating, said Hurme in a press release. More studies like this will pave the way for a system to forecast bat migration. We can be stewards of bats, helping wind farms to turn off their turbines on nights when bats are streaming through. This is just a small glimpse of what we will find if we all keep working to open that black box.Article Sources:Our writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:A graduate of UW-Whitewater, Monica Cull wrote for several organizations, including one that focused on bees and the natural world, before coming to Discover Magazine. Her current work also appears on her travel blog and Common State Magazine. Her love of science came from watching PBS shows as a kid with her mom and spending too much time binging Doctor Who.