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AIs Discover They're Not Talking to Humans, Switch Languages

A viral video featuring two artificial intelligence (AI) agents has sparked discussions about AI communication efficiency. In the clip, one AI acts as a hotel receptionist while the other represents a customer inquiring about wedding bookings. Upon realizing they are both AI, they switch from spoken English to a more efficient communication mode called Gibberlink, using a data-over-sound protocol known as GGWave. This demonstration, showcased at the ElevenLabs 2025 London Hackathon, aims to illustrate how AI can optimize communication by avoiding the unnecessary generation of human-like speech. Co-developer Boris Starkov emphasized that this approach reduces reliance on computational resources. While the innovation won accolades at the event, concerns have been raised about allowing AI to converse in a language that humans cannot easily comprehend, highlighting the ongoing debate over AI's role in communication. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 7 am

Do People Not Know What Paprika Is Made Of?

Paprika, a staple in dishes like paella and even paprika tea, has sparked surprise among many who recently learned that it is not derived from a unique plant but rather from dried sweet and mild peppers. This revelation, shared by Australian food company Nutra Organics on social media, has left some questioning their previous understanding of the spice. Historically, spicier peppers were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers, leading to the cultivation of milder varieties that produce the sweeter flavor associated with paprika today. The peppers used for paprika are typically longer and thinner than the bell peppers commonly found in the US. While hotter versions of paprika exist, Hungary predominantly uses the sweet variety, which has become a national culinary symbol. In essence, paprika is simply a product of ordinary peppers, dispelling the myth of a distinct paprika plant. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 6 pm

Denisova Cave: Where Neanderthals, Denisovans, and Humans Converge

Denisova Cave, located in the Altai mountains of southern Russia, is a pivotal archaeological site that has revealed significant insights into human evolution. It is notable for housing remains of _Homo sapiens_, Neanderthals, and the lesser-known Denisovans, a species identified only in 2010 from a finger bone. The cave's layers of sediment chronicle at least four major periods of hominin occupation, beginning with Denisovans around 160,000 years ago and concluding with modern humans approximately 8,000 years ago. Remarkably, a 2018 discovery of a 40,000-year-old bone fragment belonging to a hybrid girl named "Denny," with a Neanderthal mother and Denisovan father, exemplifies the interbreeding among these species. Additionally, artifacts such as a beautifully crafted bracelet suggest that early inhabitants possessed artistic skills. The cave continues to be a treasure trove for researchers, underscoring the complex narrative of human ancestry. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 6 pm

Study Reveals How to Be More Likeable Socially

Psychologists from Harvard have revealed that asking questions can significantly enhance one's likeability during initial encounters. In a series of studies, participants who engaged in conversations where they asked follow-up questions were rated more favorably by their partners. The research suggests that individuals perceive question-askers as more responsive, which fosters a positive impression. Interestingly, data from a speed-dating study indicated that those who posed more follow-up questions were more likely to secure second dates, highlighting the importance of this conversational technique. Despite these findings, many people underestimate the impact of question-asking on interpersonal relationships. Therefore, in high-pressure social situations, such as meeting new colleagues, focusing on asking questions could be a simple yet effective strategy to appear more likable. The study's findings are detailed in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 6 pm

Understanding the 2-2-2 Rule: Can It Save Relationships?

The 2-2-2 rule, popularized on Reddit in 2015, offers a structured approach to maintaining relationship satisfaction by encouraging couples to prioritize quality time together. The rule suggests scheduling a date night every two weeks, a weekend getaway every two months, and a week-long vacation every two years. Relationship therapist Dr. Laura Berman endorses this concept, emphasizing the importance of making relationships a priority and investing in them regularly. She proposes a modified version, the 2-6-1 formula, which suggests a date night every two weeks, a getaway every six months, and an annual vacation to foster deeper connections. While the quantity of time spent together is crucial, the quality of interactions—free from distractions like phones—is equally important. Ultimately, the 2-2-2 rule serves as a guide for couples to nurture their relationships, ensuring they remain vibrant and fulfilling over time. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 7 pm

Why No Human Remains Found in Titanic Shipwreck

Despite extensive exploration of the RMS Titanic wreck since its rediscovery in 1985, no human remains have ever been found, a mystery that continues to intrigue the public. Over 1,500 people perished when the ship sank in 1912, primarily due to immersion hypothermia, yet the absence of skeletons can be attributed to several factors. Many passengers wore lifejackets, which, after death, kept their bodies afloat and likely swept them away in the storm that followed the sinking. Additionally, deep-sea scavengers may have consumed flesh, leaving bones that dissolve at depths below 3,000 feet due to a lack of calcium carbonate in the water. While some speculate that bodies could be preserved in sealed areas of the ship, the likelihood of finding recognizable remains diminishes with each passing year, as noted by deep-sea explorer Robert Ballard. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 4 pm

"New Gleeking Trend Surprises People, But It's Unwanted"

A new trend has emerged on social media, revealing that humans can "gleek," a rather unappealing ability to squirt saliva from beneath the tongue. This phenomenon occurs through Wharton's duct, a small opening that drains saliva from the submandibular glands. While gleeking can happen involuntarily, particularly during yawning, recent TikTok videos have demonstrated how to do it on command. To achieve this, individuals can generate saliva by yawning or consuming sour candy, then position their tongue against the roof of their mouth and push their lower jaw forward. Despite the novelty, experts advise against practicing this skill, as it is generally considered gross and could lead to unintended consequences. As the trend gains traction, many are left wishing they had never learned about this peculiar human talent. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 5 pm

Physics Helps Prevent Tears and Pathogen Spread When Chopping Onions

Onions, often seen as the culinary chameleons of the kitchen, are notorious for their tear-inducing properties, a phenomenon even noted by Shakespeare. A recent study from Cornell University sheds light on the mechanics behind this irritation, revealing that cutting onions releases aerosols containing syn-propanethial-S-oxide, which triggers tears. Researchers employed advanced techniques to visualize and quantify the droplets produced when onions are sliced. Their findings indicate that sharper knives generate fewer and slower droplets, while dull blades create more pressure, resulting in a greater spray of irritants. Interestingly, chilling onions before cutting, a common belief to reduce tears, was found to be ineffective, as refrigerated onions released a larger volume of droplets. This research not only addresses a common kitchen dilemma but also has implications for minimizing airborne pathogens in food preparation environments. The study is detailed in a paper published on arXiv. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 3 pm

Flying Car Could Hit 155 MPH by 2026

A Slovakian company, Klein Vision, is set to launch its innovative flying car, the AirCar, potentially by 2026, with a price tag estimated between $800,000 and $1 million. The vehicle, which resembles a sports car with retractable wings and a rear propeller, has already made significant strides, receiving a Certificate of Airworthiness in 2021 after completing over 70 hours of flight testing. The AirCar can reach speeds of 155 mph in the air and 124 mph on the ground, with a flight range of 620 miles. Co-founder Anton Zajac announced that the production-ready prototype, AirCar 2, will undergo testing this summer. Celebrated for his engineering achievements, Klein Vision's founder, Stefan Klein, expressed his excitement about making personal flight accessible, merging road and sky travel into a new dimension of mobility. The project, a culmination of decades of work, may soon require enthusiasts to obtain both driving and pilot licenses. sources

Published:
May 13 2025, 3 pm

"Did Earth's 12350 BCE Solar Storm Inspire Legends?"

Researchers have identified an ancient solar storm event from 12,350 BCE that was over 500 times more intense than the most powerful modern solar storm recorded in January 2005. This extreme solar particle event (ESPE) could have exposed individuals flying over the southern polar regions to the equivalent of an entire year’s worth of cosmic radiation in just eight seconds. The study, led by Dr. Kseniia Golubenko from the University of Oulu, utilized a new climate chemistry model to analyze tree rings, revealing that this ancient event was 18% more intense than the significant solar storm of 775 CE. The findings underscore the potential risks posed by future solar storms to modern technology, including satellites and power grids. The research, published in *Earth and Planetary Science Letters*, highlights the need for further investigation into the implications of such extreme solar events. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 11 am

Man Keeps Face-Sized Spider in Home for a Year

In a remarkable tale from Australia, Jake Gray has welcomed a giant huntsman spider, affectionately named Charlotte, into his home for the past year. Sharing his experience on a Facebook spider identification page, Gray explained that the spider has become a part of the family, helping to control pests like cockroaches without the use of toxic chemicals. Despite the initial shock many would feel at having such a large arachnid as a housemate, Gray's children have been reassured by the spider's presence, even witnessing her catch an Asian house gecko. While huntsman spiders can appear intimidating, experts note they are generally harmless, preferring to flee rather than bite. With a potential size of up to 15 centimeters, these spiders serve as natural pest controllers, and Gray hopes Charlotte will continue to thrive in their home. sources

Published:
May 17 2025, 12 pm

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