Judge Finds Government Acted Illegally in Russian Scientist Case

A new COVID variant called NB.1.8.1 is gaining traction in Australia, and a virologist breaks down what we know so far. Early signs suggest it might spread faster than previous strains and could dodge some of the immunity people have built up from past infections or vaccines.

Editor’s Note: While we’re not back to square one, this variant is a reminder that COVID hasn’t disappeared—it’s just evolved. If NB.1.8.1 is indeed more transmissible or better at slipping past defenses, it could mean a bump in cases, especially for vulnerable folks. Staying informed (without panicking) is key—knowing what’s out there helps us make smarter choices about precautions.

Doctors have created an AI tool that can pinpoint which prostate cancer patients are most likely to benefit from abiraterone, a powerful drug that cuts the risk of death by half. This could help tailor treatments more effectively, avoiding unnecessary side effects for those who won’t respond as well.

Editor’s Note: Prostate cancer is a huge global health issue, and while abiraterone is a major breakthrough, it doesn’t work equally well for everyone. This AI tool could be a gamechanger by ensuring the right patients get the right treatment faster—saving lives and reducing wasted time, money, and hope on ineffective therapies. It’s another step toward precision medicine, where tech helps doctors make smarter, more personal decisions.

Scientists taught seals to play a simple video game to study how they navigate murky waters. Turns out, tiny particles in the water—like floating plankton or sediment—act like underwater "breadcrumbs," helping seals track their movements and find their way. It’s a clever adaptation for an environment where visibility is often terrible.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a cute story about seals gaming—it’s a window into how animals solve real-world problems. Understanding their navigation tricks could inspire better underwater tech or conservation strategies, especially as human activity messes with ocean conditions. Plus, who doesn’t love a seal with a joystick?

A new study using satellite data shows that over a fifth of the world's oceans have grown noticeably darker, which is bad news for marine life. The darkening affects the "photic zone"—the upper layer where sunlight penetrates—disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems that rely on light for photosynthesis and survival. Researchers are sounding the alarm about the cascading effects this could have on everything from tiny plankton to the larger food chain.

Editor’s Note: Darker oceans might sound like a minor shift, but it’s a big deal. Less light means less energy for phytoplankton, the tiny organisms that form the base of the marine food web. If they struggle, everything else—from fish to whales—could feel the ripple effects. This isn’t just an ocean problem; it’s a global one, tied to climate-driven changes in water composition and circulation. In short, it’s another warning sign that human activity is reshaping the planet in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

DJI’s Mini 4K drone—a compact but powerful 4K filming tool—is currently on sale at a rare discount. The lightweight design means you can fly it without FAA registration, making it a hassle-free option for creators. If you’ve been eyeing this drone, now might be the time to grab it before the price goes back up.

Editor’s Note: Drones like this are usually pricey, so a discount on a high-quality model is a big deal for hobbyists and content creators. The no-registration perk adds extra appeal, making it a smart buy for anyone wanting pro-level footage without the usual red tape.