Age of the universe

Our universe could be much older than we think! A Canadian study claims it's almost double previous estimates – 27 billion years old. A newly devised model was used to modify the traditional method called "tired light theory." It proposes the idea of evolving "coupling constants," which may have extended the timeframe for the formation of early galaxies. The theory offers a compelling solution to the so-called "early galaxy problem" and challenges our fundamental understanding of the universe.

Artificial sweetener

A popular artificial sweetener could cause cancer. The World Health Organization has listed aspartame as a Class 2B carcinogen. Despite the health risks, the declaration means a daily limit of 40 milligrams is still acceptable for every kilogram of body weight. Aspartame is widely used in several products like diet soda and sugar-free gum. Similar rulings have raised consumer concerns and pressured manufacturers into scrambling for alternative ingredients. 

AI for Good Global Summit

The first-ever human-robot summit in Switzerland! Nine robots took questions from the audience on the future and impact of artificial intelligence (AI). In a chilling Q&A, one robot even urged humans to be cautious in the development of AI. The purpose of the event was to explore the ways in which AI can advance health, climate, gender, inclusive prosperity, sustainable infrastructure and other global development priorities.

Health risks

Nearly half of the drinking water in the United States may contain toxic chemicals. A new study from the U.S. Geological Survey has found "forever chemicals," or PFAS, in about 45 percent of U.S. tap water. PFAS are chemicals used in everyday products. They take a long time to break down due to their strong chemical bonds. This makes it easy for the chemicals to linger in the environment and contaminate drinking water. There are more than 12,000 types of PFAS, and high concentrations of some chemicals may lead to adverse health risks.