I'm always tired, so I tried a celebrity-loved injectable that promises to boost your energy and make you more productive - but does it work?
I know there are few things more boring than hearing about how tired and busy other people are, but let's just say that, as a full-time working mother with two kids under five, I am more tired and busy than I've ever been before.
So when I had the opportunity to test out NAD+, a molecule that's had the wellness world buzzing with its promise to increase energy, super-charge focus, enhance your mood and improve your sleep, I was definitely interested. After having my second child I've been left with a brain fog that rarely lifts outside of work, and I've always been a terrible sleeper. Who wouldn't want to be a more productive, get-up-and-go version of themselves?
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Geeky Gadgets
4 minutes ago
- Geeky Gadgets
How Robots Are Learning to Think Like Humans, and Why It's So Hard
What makes a robot truly intelligent? Is it the ability to solve complex equations in milliseconds or something more human-like—such as recognizing a misplaced object in a cluttered room or adapting to sudden changes in its surroundings? While robots have long excelled at computational tasks, their struggle to replicate the intuitive, split-second decisions humans make daily reveals a fascinating paradox. Known as Moravec's Paradox, this challenge underscores how tasks we take for granted—like perceiving our environment or adjusting to unexpected obstacles—are among the hardest for robots to master. As we push the boundaries of robotics, the quest for human-like perception and adaptability is not just a technical hurdle but a profound exploration of what it means to interact with the world. This breakdown by Boston Dynamic unpacks the intricate systems that enable robots to perceive, adapt, and thrive in dynamic environments. From advanced sensory technologies like LiDAR and tactile sensors to the integration of foundational AI models, you'll discover how innovative innovations are closing the gap between robotic efficiency and human intuition. But the journey is far from straightforward. What does it take for a robot to not only 'see' but also 'understand' its surroundings? How do they recover from failure or respond to unpredictable challenges? These questions lie at the heart of this exploration, offering a glimpse into the future of robotics—where machines may one day rival the adaptability and resilience of their human creators. Understanding Moravec's Paradox Moravec's Paradox highlights a fundamental challenge in robotics: while robots excel at performing complex computational tasks, they often struggle with basic motor and perception skills that humans execute effortlessly. This paradox stems from human evolutionary development, where sensory perception and physical interaction with the environment are deeply ingrained. For robots, replicating these abilities requires the development of sophisticated systems capable of real-time perception and adaptive responses. The paradox underscores the difficulty of programming robots to perform tasks that humans find intuitive, such as recognizing objects in cluttered spaces or adjusting movements based on subtle environmental changes. Addressing this challenge is critical to advancing robotic capabilities and allowing them to function effectively in dynamic, unstructured environments. How Robots Perceive and Navigate Dynamic Environments Operating in dynamic environments requires robots to process sensory data and adjust their actions in real time. Advanced perception systems are essential for robots like Atlas to navigate unpredictable settings. These systems rely on data from multiple sensors, including: Cameras: Capturing visual information for object recognition, spatial awareness, and environmental mapping. Capturing visual information for object recognition, spatial awareness, and environmental mapping. LiDAR: Using laser-based technology to create precise 3D maps of surroundings, detect obstacles, and measure distances. For example, when Atlas encounters an obstacle, it must quickly identify the object, analyze its properties, and determine the best course of action—all within milliseconds. This ability to process and act on sensory input is critical for effective navigation, task execution, and interaction with the environment. In addition to sensory data, robots must integrate advanced algorithms to interpret and prioritize information. This ensures that they can focus on relevant details, such as identifying a moving object or detecting changes in terrain, while filtering out irrelevant noise. Robot Perception and Adaptability Explained Watch this video on YouTube. Stay informed about the latest in humanoid robots by exploring our other resources and articles. The Challenges of Object Manipulation Object manipulation is one of the most complex aspects of robotic perception and control. Robots must not only identify objects but also interact with them in environments that may be cluttered or obstructed. This involves several key processes: Object Recognition: Using advanced algorithms to identify objects, differentiate between similar items, and filter out irrelevant data. Using advanced algorithms to identify objects, differentiate between similar items, and filter out irrelevant data. Grasp Planning: Calculating the optimal way to grip and manipulate objects with precision, taking into account factors such as shape, weight, and fragility. For instance, when handling a fragile object, a robot must balance grip strength and accuracy to avoid causing damage. Even minor errors in this process can lead to failure, emphasizing the need for precise control mechanisms and adaptive learning systems. Robots also face challenges when interacting with objects in motion or when dealing with unpredictable variables, such as slippery surfaces or irregular shapes. Addressing these challenges requires the integration of tactile sensors, machine learning algorithms, and real-time feedback systems. Adapting to Evolving Conditions Adaptability is a cornerstone of effective robotic systems. Robots must continuously update their understanding of the environment as conditions change. This is particularly important in scenarios where: Objects are moved or repositioned unexpectedly. Tasks are altered or interrupted mid-process. For example, if an object is relocated during a task, the robot must reassess its surroundings, update its internal map, and adjust its actions accordingly. Additionally, failure recovery mechanisms are essential for making sure reliability. These mechanisms enable robots to retry tasks, recover from errors, and continue functioning even in the face of unexpected challenges, such as picking up a dropped item or recalibrating after a collision. The ability to adapt to changing conditions is critical for robots operating in dynamic environments, such as warehouses, disaster zones, or healthcare settings. It allows them to perform tasks with greater efficiency and reliability, reducing the need for constant human intervention. The Role of Foundational AI Models in Robotics Recent advancements in robotics have shifted the focus from task-specific machine learning models to foundational AI models. These models are trained on diverse datasets that include: Perception Inputs: Images, sensor data, and other environmental information. Images, sensor data, and other environmental information. Language Data: Text and speech inputs for understanding instructions and contextual cues. Text and speech inputs for understanding instructions and contextual cues. Video Inputs: Motion analysis and contextual understanding of dynamic scenarios. By integrating these data types, foundational AI models enable robots to develop a more comprehensive understanding of their environment. For example, a robot equipped with multimodal AI can interpret verbal commands, analyze visual cues, and respond appropriately to changes in its surroundings. This integration enhances the robot's ability to perform complex, generalized tasks without requiring extensive reprogramming. Foundational AI models also support the development of predictive capabilities, allowing robots to anticipate potential obstacles or changes in their environment. This proactive approach improves efficiency and reduces the likelihood of errors. Advancing Toward Physical Intelligence The future of robotics lies in the transition from spatial AI, which focuses on navigation and mapping, to physical intelligence. Physical intelligence involves creating robots capable of performing a wide range of tasks using a single, integrated system. Achieving this goal requires the combination of: Advanced Perception Systems: Allowing robots to interpret and interact with their surroundings in real time. Allowing robots to interpret and interact with their surroundings in real time. Adaptability: Allowing robots to adjust to dynamic environments and evolving conditions. Allowing robots to adjust to dynamic environments and evolving conditions. Precision Control: Making sure accuracy and reliability in complex tasks, such as object manipulation and assembly. This shift aims to reduce the need for specialized programming for each new task, allowing robots to handle generalized tasks more effectively. By focusing on physical intelligence, researchers are paving the way for robots that can operate autonomously in diverse settings, from industrial applications to everyday environments. As robotics continues to evolve, the integration of advanced perception systems, foundational AI models, and physical intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping the capabilities of future robotic systems. These advancements promise to expand the potential applications of robotics, making them more versatile, efficient, and reliable in addressing real-world challenges. Media Credit: Boston Dynamics Filed Under: AI, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Sun
39 minutes ago
- The Sun
The anti-ageing Ozempic effect: How weight loss jabs could help you live longer ‘slashing your risk of dying young'
WEIGHT loss, warding off dementia, 'curing' diabetes and now… anti-ageing powers? Is there anything the so-called fat jabs can't do? While a medicine that reverses the clock would be a miracle, we're not quite there, yet. But scientists hope the 'game-changing miracle' weight loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, could be the next best thing, helping us live longer. Just last week, a study found that semaglutide - the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy - could "significantly" slash the risk of the brain-robbing disease dementia, in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers at Case Western Reserve School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, studied 1.7million American patients with type 2 diabetes over three years. Originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, the jabs mimic a gut hormone called GLP-1. This leads to a reduction in appetite and regulates blood sugar levels. Now, they are prescribed to help melt fat away, and are taking the nation's waistline by storm. And new research is showing that these jabs could reduce the risk of various deadly diseases, from heart disease to Alzheimer's and cancer. They could also prevent deaths from these conditions, according to results of the SELECT trial, published in 2023. Funded by Ozempic and Wegovy manufacturer Novo Nordisk, it tracked 17,600 people either given the jab, or a placebo, for three years. Weight Loss Jabs - Pros vs Cons All of the volunteers taking part were overweight, over the age of 45 and had been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. During the trial, 833 people died. But those who were on fat jabs were 19 per cent less likely to die of any cause, and 15 per cent less likely to die a heart-related death. Levels of inflammation in the body were also reduced, regardless of how much weight was lost. This is one of the key theories behind why fat jabs may have additional benefits. Inflammation, triggered by obesity and associated lifestyle choices, is often what drives heart disease and other major causes of death. 'We know that chronic inflammation speeds up ageing,' Dr Amos Ogunkoya, a GP in London, tells Sun Health. 'It causes DNA damage - and that's the reason diabetes and obesity increase the risk of certain cancers and tissue damage. 'The more inflammation you have, the more DNA damage you have.' Professor Rameen Shakur, a molecular biologist and director of Brighton Integrative Genomics Unit, says: 'We do know that turning down chronic systemic inflammation helps in healthy longevity.' But he adds: 'Ageing is a complicated soup of systems and signals which is, over time, weakening and decaying the cells that keep our body fit and well. 'It's a multi-dimensional complex, not one thing. 'Ageing involves free radicals, telomeres and general decay. If I have Botox, I won't have wrinkles, but it won't positively affect my heart. 'There's no study that says, 'I took Ozempic and now I'm Benjamin Button'. 'We don't understand if it 'reverses the clock'. But it has additional effects because it reduces calories [eaten].' What is certain though is that like all medicines, weight loss jabs do come with a range of side effects, most commonly nausea, diarrhoea and constipation. But there are also more serious risks, including pancreatitis and gastroparesis. So while there are risks, for those Brits who are overweight and either already living with, or en route to a chronic illness that could shorten their life, doctors agree these jabs have huge potential to improve lives. So what does the science say? Here's how Ozempic could extend your life… HEART OF IT 4 LOSING weight has huge benefits on the heart. 'Living with excess weight or obesity can increase the chances of developing cardiovascular disease,' Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, clinical director at the British Heart Foundation and consultant cardiologist, tells Sun Health. 'The SELECT trial, which involved people with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, found that semaglutide can reduce the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, or having a heart attack or stroke by around 20 per cent. 'Plus, it was found that semaglutide can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, even if they didn't lose weight. 'This suggests that the medicines are having other positive effects, such as where fat is stored, and regulation of blood sugar, blood pressure and inflammation.' Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are all associated with obesity, and have a negative impact on the heart and blood vessels. THE BIG C OBESITY is the second most common cause of cancer in the UK, behind smoking. But scientists believe the jabs' influence on inflammation, hormones and chemicals in the blood might add extra protection against cancer. One study compared 3,200 patients who lost weight with GLP-1 injections with 3,200 who had surgery. The jabs were 41 per cent more effective at preventing cancer, the researchers from Israel reported in eClinicalMedicine. Dr Matthew Harris, of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, added: 'Injectable weight loss medications give a genuinely promising possible option for cancer prevention in the future.' Another study found diabetics on GLP-1 drugs were less likely to get 13 types of cancer associated with obesity over 15 years, from pancreatic to bowel and womb, than those on other meds. Everything you need to know about fat jabs Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases. Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK. Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market. Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year. How do they work? The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight. They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients' sugar levels are too high. Can I get them? NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics. Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure. GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss. Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk. Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health. Are there any risks? Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild. Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea. Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at said: 'One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.' Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia. Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients' mental health. Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines. MIND MATTERS STUDIES suggest semaglutide may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's - the most common form of dementia and the leading cause of death in the UK. One, published in the journal Alzheimer's and Dementia, found that type 2 diabetics had a 40 to 70 per cent reduced risk of Alzheimer's when they were on semaglutide compared to other diabetic drugs. Another, published in JAMA Neurology, showed a 33 per cent lower risk. The researchers said it's not clear how the drugs are protecting the brain, but inflammation is thought to play a major role in the development of Alzheimer's. Dr Amos says: 'Inflammation causes damage to neurons (in the brain). 'It's also quite common for people's Alzheimer's or their cognitive decline to get worse when they're ill because inflammation markers are high.' A study by Imperial College London also showed that liraglutide (Saxenda) could reduce brain shrinkage in patients already with Alzheimer's, by 50 per cent. BUT WHAT ABOUT 'OZEMPIC FACE'? 4 WHILE Ozempic-like jabs might have internal anti-ageing benefits, there's a danger they could make you look older. '' Ozempic face ' is a loss of volume in the face, which can visually make wrinkles look worse,' warns Dr Amos. 'When you lose fat in your face, and your skin doesn't follow, you can look saggy and older.' Rapid weight loss also means a loss in muscle mass, which helps define a figure and reduce loose skin. It's also important the more you age to reduce frailty, and protect bones. Dr Amos recommends weight training while on weight loss jabs. He says: 'Lots of people are getting Ozempic privately and they're not aware of the side effects of muscle loss and not training or changing their lifestyle.' 'I've slashed my risk of dying young thanks to fat jabs' FOR Ursula Hirschkorn, 53, the results of Mounjaro have been 'incredible' for her health. The mum-of-four, from London, saw Mounjaro as her 'best bet' of a future without chronic illness, knowing for years that her weight was a key risk factor. She tells Sun Health: 'I've got high cholesterol, I had high sugars, I had high blood pressure, and I've got a dementia risk because my mother and my grandmother both had vascular dementia, which is related to weight. 'I wanted to reduce my risk but knew the only way I could do that is to lose weight. "I had gestational diabetes with my children which means that I'm 50 per cent more likely to develop diabetes over 50.' Ursula had tried to lose weight but it was always the same story since she began yo-yo dieting as a teenager. 'I have lost weight a couple of times in the past naturally but every time I've put it back on again because the minute I stopped dieting I just started eating again,' she said. Her tipping point came when her husband Mike, 49, a trainee therapist, lost 4st 7lbs with Mounjaro. Inspired—and spurred by her own health risks—the freelance content strategist started taking it in February this year. The side effects, particularly constipation, were 'debilitating', she says. She stopped the jabs altogether but determined not to give up, she switched providers, landing with VOY, which offers additional support. Ursula eased back onto Manjaro, and this time, her body adjusted and she suffered no side effects. She is now on a 7.5 mg dose and has lost 15kg (nearly two stone) so far. 'I'm losing weight quite slowly, but it's the health benefits I'm noticing,' she says. 'I had blood tests at the beginning of the year which showed that I'd actually gone into diabetic range. But after Mounjaro, my blood sugar is completely back to normal, it's not even pre-diabetic. 'I was put on blood pressure tablets but since losing weight, I've been able to come off those. 'I had very high cholesterol and that has fallen a little bit, but I think it's more difficult to tackle.' Ursula has even become a runner with the help of the NHS Couch to 5K app, and gives tips to others on her TikTok page (@fatgirlswims6) 'When I started, I couldn't have run for a minute without having to stop, sweating and being out of puff. I found walking up the stairs difficult. 'I just recently ran 6km without stopping and felt amazing. 'I go to the gym all the time and I just feel physically so much better, which may be why my mental health has also improved. 'We were on holiday in Malaysia last week and I was able to do active things I couldn't have before, like walking to the top of temples. 'It's amazing.'
The Independent
39 minutes ago
- The Independent
Photo highlights from T-Rex World Championship Races
Spectators cheered as participants ran down the track cloaked in inflatable Tyrannosaurus rex costumes during the T-Rex World Championship Races at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington. The Sunday event started in 2017 as a pest control company's team-building activity. The actual dinosaur roamed the planet between 65 million and 67 million years ago. A study published four years ago in the journal Science estimated about 2.5 billion of the dinosaurs roamed Earth over the course of a couple million years. Hollywood movies such as the 'Jurassic Park' franchise have added to the public fascination with the carnivorous creature. ___ This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.
