Author: Andrew Rogers

Asia leads the expansion of cryptocurrencies, while the US has sped up under Trump’s second term. Europe instead places emphasis on strict rules. Since its launch in 2009, Bitcoin has risen from cents to nearly $120,000, symbolizing crypto’s move from experiment to mainstream. Once seen as an alternative to state systems, digital assets now draw the full attention of investors, institutions, and regulators. The EU introduced MiCA, demanding fund segregation, audits, licensing fees, and identification of transfer participants. Regulators argue this builds trust and stability. Industry players counter that the measures raise costs and risks, particularly for smaller firms, and…

Duolingo issued an apology after a German lesson portrayed J.K. Rowling as mean. The content has since been removed. The exercise asked learners if they liked Harry Potter books. The suggested answer criticised Rowling rather than staying neutral. The platform explained it never intended offence and promised to keep lessons focused on language learning instead of personal opinions. Rowling’s stance on trans rights continues to spark division, with widespread criticism voiced by fans, activists, and former Harry Potter actors. Daniel Radcliffe shared sadness about her comments and stressed his ongoing effort to defend LGBTQ rights and equality. Broader Reactions and…

Arctic sea ice loss has nearly stalled since 2005, puzzling scientists who expected faster decline as global emissions kept increasing. Despite more trapped heat from fossil fuels, natural ocean current shifts appear to have temporarily reduced the pace of melting. Experts caution this lull is short-lived. Within five to ten years, melting is likely to return at an accelerated speed. Still a Serious Decline Satellite data show September sea ice levels are already half of what they were in 1979, proving long-term decline is severe. Scientists stress the Arctic is not recovering. Ice-free summers remain probable this century, threatening ecosystems…

Scientists are raising alarms over a global decline in sperm counts, warning that plastic additives such as phthalates and bisphenols are key contributors. Research shows sperm counts have fallen by about 1% per year for 50 years, with recent studies indicating the decline is accelerating to more than 2% annually. This trend, observed worldwide, aligns with the rapid rise of plastic production since the mid-20th century. Hormone Disruption and Health Risks Phthalates, which soften plastics, lower testosterone, while bisphenols, which harden plastics, mimic estrogen. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals are particularly harmful to developing fetuses, leading to altered sexual development and reduced…

Chocolate can have many flavors – from fruity and floral to strong and bitter. Now researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the fermentation of cocoa beans. An international team led by Prof. David Salt from the University of Nottingham studied beans from three cocoa-growing regions in Colombia and showed how specific microbes active during fermentation strongly shape the final taste. Nine microbes as the “secret ingredient” While beans from Santander and Huila developed fruity and floral notes during fermentation, beans from Antioquia lacked these flavors due to the presence of different microbes. Through genetic analysis, the team identified nine…