New Cell Phone Law Explained as Triad Students Head Back to School

New Law Restricts Cell Phone Use in North Carolina Schools

As students across the Piedmont Triad return to school, a new law is changing the way they interact with technology. Governor Josh Stein recently signed House Bill 959 into law, which places restrictions on the use of cell phones and other devices in public schools. The legislation also mandates that students receive education on social media literacy.

Restrictions on Mobile Devices

The law requires all public school districts in North Carolina to submit policies restricting wireless devices to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction by September 1. These policies must be implemented by January 1. The goal is to reduce distractions and improve student focus during instructional time.

Research supports these restrictions, showing that mobile devices can negatively impact learning. Some school systems have already implemented similar policies. For example, Lexington City Schools requires elementary and middle school students to turn off their phones for the entire school day, while high school students may use them during lunch.

Superintendent Nakia Hardy of Lexington City Schools noted that students are more focused in class when devices are not allowed. “It's a difficult thing for students and even adults to detach from their devices, but they can be a major distraction,” she said.

Other districts, like Rockingham County Schools, are still determining how to implement the new rules. Superintendent John Stover mentioned that some middle schools have had success with no-cell-phone policies, and others are considering adopting similar models.

Impact on Students

While some parents have expressed concerns about being unable to contact their children in emergencies, experts like psychologist Mitch Prinstein believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Prinstein, who studies the effects of technology on child development, says fewer distractions lead to better focus and safety.

He also highlighted the "second-hand screen effect," where students sitting near those using devices can also be distracted. Additionally, he warns about the exposure of students to harmful content online, such as cyberbullying or misinformation.

Prinstein emphasizes that when these policies are first introduced, there may be an adjustment period. However, many students eventually feel relieved, reporting that they can be more present and form real connections without the pressure of constant device use.

Social Media Literacy Education

In addition to limiting device usage, House Bill 959 requires schools to teach social media literacy. This includes lessons on the social, emotional, and physical effects of social media use. Each district must provide instruction at least once in elementary school, once in middle school, and twice in high school.

The curriculum covers eight key topics:

• Negative effects of social media on mental health, including addiction.
• The spread of misinformation on social media.
• How social media can manipulate behavior.
• The permanency of online information.
• Maintaining personal security online.
• Identifying cyberbullying, predatory behavior, and human trafficking.
• Reporting suspicious online activity.
• Developing personal and interpersonal skills to reduce risky behavior.

Prinstein believes this education helps students navigate both online and offline environments. He encourages teaching critical thinking, how to identify misinformation, and how to handle conflicts on the internet.

Ongoing Research and Adaptation

As schools implement these changes, Prinstein stresses the importance of continued research and legislative efforts. With the rapid advancement of AI and other technologies, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt policies accordingly.

The new law aims to create a safer and more focused learning environment for students, balancing the benefits of technology with the need for responsible use. As districts roll out these policies, the focus remains on supporting student well-being and academic success.

New radar reveals hidden underground city

Breakthrough in Radar Technology

Recent advancements in radar technology have led to a remarkable discovery beneath the Giza Pyramids in Egypt—a massive underground city. This groundbreaking find has drawn attention from archaeologists and scientists around the world, igniting discussions and prompting further exploration. As researchers and enthusiasts delve into this monumental discovery, it promises to reshape our understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization and its architectural achievements.

The breakthrough was made possible by the innovative use of quantum radar technology. Unlike traditional radar, which relies on radio waves to detect objects, quantum radar utilizes quantum entanglement to achieve unprecedented levels of resolution and penetration. This technology allows for more precise detection of underground structures, which has long been a challenge for archaeologists trying to explore beneath the Earth’s surface without invasive digging.

Quantum radar's technical advancements have opened new avenues for exploration. Its ability to penetrate deeper layers of the earth while maintaining high resolution has made it an invaluable tool in discovering hidden structures. The technology’s sensitivity is attributed to innovations in quantum physics, which allow it to distinguish between different materials with high accuracy. These capabilities not only facilitate archaeological discoveries but also have broader applications. For instance, in geology, it can be used to map mineral deposits, while in urban planning, it can help in the design of underground infrastructure. Its potential uses in military operations for detecting underground bunkers also highlight its strategic importance.

The Discovery of the Underground City

The initial signs of the underground city were detected when radar images revealed unusual patterns beneath the sands of Giza. These anomalies piqued the interest of researchers, leading to a more focused investigation. As exploration continued, the radar data unveiled a sprawling network of tunnels and chambers, confirming the existence of a vast subterranean complex. The architectural features identified within the underground city are nothing short of fascinating. Researchers have mapped out intricate passageways and chambers that suggest a well-organized urban layout. Some areas appear to have been used for residential purposes, with evidence of living quarters and communal spaces. The complexity of the construction indicates advanced engineering skills, challenging previous assumptions about the capabilities of ancient Egyptian society.

The discovery provides a new perspective on the architectural ingenuity of the civilization that built the pyramids and raises questions about the purpose and function of the underground city. It challenges existing historical narratives and suggests that ancient Egyptians may have been more advanced than previously thought. This newfound complexity in their urban planning and architecture could significantly alter our perception of their societal structure and cultural achievements.

Implications for Archaeology and History

Excavating and studying the underground city presents numerous challenges for archaeologists. The delicate balance of preserving the site while conducting thorough research requires advanced techniques and technologies. There are concerns about causing potential damage to the structures, which have remained hidden for millennia. Furthermore, ethical considerations must be addressed, as the site holds significant cultural and historical importance. Ensuring that the exploration respects the cultural heritage and traditions of Egypt is paramount to maintaining the integrity of the discovery.

As scientists and historians continue to study the site, they may uncover new insights into the daily lives and spiritual practices of the civilization. The revelation of such an expansive underground city has profound implications for our understanding of ancient history. It challenges existing historical narratives and suggests that ancient Egyptians may have been more advanced than previously thought. This newfound complexity in their urban planning and architecture could significantly alter our perception of their societal structure and cultural achievements.

Scientific and Public Reaction

The scientific community has been abuzz with debates and discussions regarding the implications of the underground city. Some experts argue that the discovery could rewrite sections of ancient history, while others call for cautious analysis before drawing definitive conclusions. The varying opinions reflect the complexity of interpreting such a monumental find.

Media coverage of the discovery has captivated the public’s imagination, sparking widespread interest in ancient civilizations and their mysteries. Reports from various outlets have brought the story to a global audience, increasing public engagement with archaeological research. The fascination with the unknown and the allure of uncovering hidden secrets beneath iconic landmarks like the Giza Pyramids have contributed to a renewed enthusiasm for historical exploration. As public interest grows, it may lead to increased funding and support for future archaeological endeavors.

Looking Forward: Potential Discoveries

The discovery of the underground city beneath the Giza Pyramids is just the beginning. As technology continues to advance, new tools and methods will likely emerge to aid in the exploration of hidden sites. Predicting future technological innovations, such as enhanced quantum radar systems with even greater precision and depth capabilities, could revolutionize the way we study ancient structures and their environments. These advancements will be crucial in uncovering other potential sites that lie hidden beneath the surface.

The global implications of similar discoveries are vast. If other ancient civilizations also constructed underground cities, we may need to reevaluate our understanding of history on a broader scale. These findings could provide insights into the commonalities and differences among ancient cultures, offering a more comprehensive view of human development throughout the ages. The potential for new discoveries highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together technologists, archaeologists, historians, and other experts to share knowledge and expertise. Such partnerships will be essential in unlocking the mysteries of our past and preserving them for future generations.

Ultrack and inTRACKtive: A Dynamic Duo for Tracking Cells in Embryonic Development

Advancements in Cell Tracking Technology

With today's advanced microscopes, scientists can capture videos of entire embryos developing in real time. However, converting these stunning images into accurate trajectories of each cell's journey is a complex challenge. Cells move, divide, and sometimes disappear as they form tissues and organs, making the process of tracking them extremely difficult.

Scientists often use the nuclei of cells as landmarks to identify boundaries within each video frame—a process known as segmentation. They then track these cells from one frame to the next. Accurate cell tracking is not only crucial for understanding developmental processes but also for studying how diseases develop and how diseased cells respond to treatments.

In Nature Methods, scientists at the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub San Francisco have introduced Ultrack, a cell-tracking platform that can handle everything from a few cells in a lab dish to whole embryos in 3D videos. Ultrack has shown superior performance in whole-embryo cell tracking compared to other tools in the Cell Tracking Challenge, an international benchmarking initiative.

"It's easy to do tracking in 2D or on a few cells, but Ultrack pushes the limits on very hard scenarios, like 3D or full embryos," says Loïc Royer, director of imaging AI at the San Francisco Biohub and senior author of the paper. "It's very fast and scales well but also has a lot of practical features to make it easy to use."

Working Smarter, Not Harder

Traditional cell tracking algorithms follow two steps: first, segmenting the cells in each frame of the video, and then linking the same cells across frames. The main issue with this approach is the initial step, where defining all the cells in a large, blurry, 3D microscopy image is challenging. It's difficult to determine whether a single large cell in a frame is actually multiple cells passing by or two cells that recently divided.

Ultrack takes a different approach by solving both tasks—segmentation and linking—simultaneously. Each time Ultrack inspects a candidate region in a frame, the algorithm creates something called an ultrametric contour map—a hierarchy of boundaries, with possible cell outlines represented as a composition of coarser to finer partitions.

To decide which cell boundary is correct, Ultrack considers all frames, identifying the most consistent cell boundaries over time when connecting to neighboring frames. This method is similar to how the brain determines whether a cloud in the sky is one large structure or two smaller clouds passing each other.

Ultrack simplifies this further by considering only segmentation scenarios that align with the rules of cell biology, such as the fact that cells divide but generally don't merge or make sudden jumps from one place to another. This efficient approach reduces computation time and minimizes tracking errors, allowing researchers to spend less time manually correcting mistakes.

"In images of dense tissue, where every correction requires considerable manual labor, Ultrack roughly halves the time scientists spend fixing segmentation and tracking mistakes," says Biohub SF scientist Jordão Bragantini, first author of the paper. "It does all this without the need for retraining deep-learning models on each new dataset, which is a major hurdle for many labs."

From Zebrafish to Sea Squirts

To evaluate Ultrack's performance in tracking organ development, the team used the zebrafish neuromast—a mechanosensory organ that helps fish navigate—as a model system. Using guidelines from the Cell Tracking Challenge, Ultrack achieved near-perfect accuracy.

The Royer team also used Ultrack to reconstruct the entire developmental trajectories of multiple embryos for Zebrahub, a zebrafish cell atlas published in Cell. Other Biohub scientists are using Ultrack to study the zebrafish immune system.

To explore the massive cell-tracking datasets from Ultrack, Royer's team, in collaboration with colleagues at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative led by Chi-Li Chiu, developed an innovative tool called inTRACKtive, also published in Nature Methods. At the Biohub, this work was led by Teun Huijben.

Using inTRACKtive's intuitive browser-based interface, users can rotate embryos in 3D space, select groups of cells, and follow their trajectories for deeper analysis. They can speed up or slow down developmental processes and even see events run backward.

Royer's team also uploaded datasets from five other model species—including mouse, C. elegans, and sea squirt—to create the Virtual Embryo Zoo, where users can explore the datasets using inTRACKtive. Since inTRACKtive runs in any browser, users can interact with datasets from laptops, desktops, and even phones.

"We encourage researchers to contribute to the Virtual Embryo Zoo by submitting their own whole-embryo datasets from other species. Contributions will help the resource grow, creating a comprehensive repository of embryonic development across different organisms," says Huijben.

"Next, we plan to expand inTRACKtive's capabilities by integrating imaging data alongside cell tracking results. This would allow for even richer visualizations by layering cell behavior and tissue development with live microscopy."

Why Nova Twins Thrive on the Live Pedal Challenge

Challenging Stereotypes in the Music Industry

British alt-rock duo Nova Twins have opened up about the sexism they encounter as female musicians who are passionate about using pedals to create unique sounds. Despite their ability to produce all their music live, many people still accuse them of miming. This issue highlights a broader problem within the music industry, where women often face unnecessary scrutiny and doubt.

Amy Love and Georgia South, the dynamic guitar and bass duo behind Nova Twins, have become one of the most innovative rock acts to emerge from the underground scene in recent years. Their creative approach involves combining the sounds of their instruments with unconventional stompboxes, which has captivated many listeners. However, their success hasn't come without challenges, as they also face detractors who question their authenticity.

As Love shared in an interview, being a woman in the music industry means constantly proving oneself. "You have to be exceptional to meet a man's average," she said. South echoed this sentiment, adding that it's "crazy" how much effort is required just to be recognized for one's talent.

The duo keeps their pedalboards a closely guarded secret, but their live performances are known for their complexity and creativity. They take pride in playing everything live without relying on synths or pre-recorded tracks. "Men love to come along to our shows and say, 'They're miming! They're not playing live!' but the sounds we make are all live," Love explained.

South mentioned that they often have to win over audiences who aren't sure what to expect from their sets. This challenge extends beyond the stage, as even backstage interactions can be difficult. She recounted a time when a person asked their guitar tech, "What guitars do you have?" The tech responded, "Oh, no, those are the girls' guitars..." but the person didn't believe him, assuming the tech was joking. The idea that the guitars could genuinely belong to the band completely escaped the person's understanding.

In 2025, such attitudes are troubling, especially considering the number of inventive non-male musicians who are making waves across various genres. Artists like Yvette Young, Grace Bowers, Lari Basilio, The Warning, and Molly Tuttle are proof that women are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a musician.

Nova Twins, set to release their third album, Parasites & Butterflies, later this year, are challenging sexist stereotypes through their music. South has cited her love for heavy electronic music and dubstep as inspiration for her unique guitar sound. The balance of their instruments leans more toward electronic textures than traditional rock n' roll, which has helped them gain a wide audience.

Their innovative approach has led to performances at major festivals across Europe and the U.S., as well as collaborations with notable artists like Bring Me The Horizon and Ho99o9. Through their music, Nova Twins continue to push boundaries and inspire others to embrace creativity without limits.

Chemists Create Four-Charge Storage Molecule for Artificial Photosynthesis Breakthrough

Breakthrough in Artificial Photosynthesis Research

A team of researchers from the University of Basel has made significant progress in developing a molecule inspired by the natural process of photosynthesis. This new molecule is capable of storing two positive and two negative charges simultaneously when exposed to light. The ultimate goal of this research is to convert sunlight into carbon-neutral fuels, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.

Photosynthesis is a vital biological process that enables plants to transform carbon dioxide into energy-rich molecules like sugar. This process not only sustains plant life but also forms the basis of the food chain for animals and humans. Through respiration, organisms break down these carbohydrates, releasing energy and producing carbon dioxide again, thus completing the cycle.

Inspired by this natural mechanism, scientists are working on creating artificial systems that mimic photosynthesis. These systems aim to produce high-energy compounds such as hydrogen, methanol, and synthetic gasoline using sunlight. If burned, these fuels would emit only the same amount of carbon dioxide that was used to create them, making them carbon-neutral.

A Molecule with Unique Properties

In a recent study published in Nature Chemistry, Professor Oliver Wenger and his doctoral student Mathis Brändlin introduced a groundbreaking molecule designed to store multiple charges at once. This molecule can hold four charges—two positive and two negative—when exposed to light. The ability to store multiple charges is crucial for converting sunlight into usable chemical energy, as these charges can drive various reactions, such as splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen.

The structure of the molecule consists of five distinct parts arranged in a sequence, each with a specific role. One side of the molecule contains two components that release electrons, resulting in a positive charge. On the opposite side, two other components absorb electrons, leading to a negative charge. In the center, a component captures sunlight and initiates the electron transfer process.

Two Steps Using Light

To generate the four charges, the researchers employed a stepwise approach involving two flashes of light. The first flash triggers a reaction that creates one positive and one negative charge. These charges then move toward the ends of the molecule. A second flash of light causes the same reaction again, resulting in two positive and two negative charges being stored within the molecule.

This method allows the use of significantly dimmer light than previously required, bringing the technology closer to practical applications under natural sunlight conditions. Earlier methods relied on intense laser light, which was not feasible for real-world implementation. Additionally, the charges generated in the molecule remain stable long enough to be utilized in further chemical processes.

Potential for Sustainable Energy

While the current molecule does not yet form a complete artificial photosynthesis system, it represents an important milestone in the field. "We have identified and implemented an essential piece of the puzzle," says Wenger. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of the electron transfer processes critical to artificial photosynthesis.

Researchers hope that this advancement will contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions. By mimicking the efficiency of natural photosynthesis, future technologies could provide clean, renewable energy sources that reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Future Implications

The research conducted by the University of Basel team highlights the potential of molecular engineering in addressing global energy challenges. As scientists continue to refine these systems, the possibility of creating efficient, carbon-neutral fuels becomes increasingly viable.

This breakthrough underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between chemistry, biology, and engineering. With continued innovation and investment, the vision of artificial photosynthesis may soon become a reality, paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.

Terumo Acquires OrganOx for $1.5 Billion

Terumo Acquires OrganOx in $1.5 Billion Deal

Terumo, a leading medical device company, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire OrganOx, a company specializing in organ preservation devices. The transaction is valued at approximately $1.5 billion and marks a significant step in the expansion of Terumo’s presence in the field of transplant technology.

As part of the deal, OrganOx will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Terumo. This follows an earlier investment by Terumo through its venture capital arm in March of this year, indicating a long-term strategic interest in the company's innovative approach to organ preservation.

By combining Terumo's extensive experience in medical device design with OrganOx's cutting-edge expertise in normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), the two companies aim to enhance the global availability of advanced organ preservation solutions. This collaboration is expected to bring about meaningful improvements in the quality and accessibility of transplant procedures worldwide.

A Commitment to Patient Care

Terumo CEO Hikaru Samejima emphasized the importance of addressing unmet needs in the field of organ transplantation. He stated, “Organ transplantation represents a last resort for patients with limited treatment options, and addressing the unmet needs in this area carries significant social value.”

He further highlighted that donated organs are a precious medical resource, and he praised OrganOx’s mission to deliver transplantable organs in optimal condition. “This aligns with our unwavering commitment to patients—Our Promise,” Samejima added.

Innovation in Organ Preservation

Founded in 2008 as a spin-off from the University of Oxford, OrganOx has developed NMP devices that significantly extend the preservation of organs. These devices circulate nutrient-rich solutions at near-body temperature, enabling real-time monitoring during transport. This technology allows for better assessment and maintenance of organ viability, which can improve transplant outcomes.

One of OrganOx’s most notable products is the metra liver NMP device, which received FDA approval in 2021. It has already been used in over 6,000 liver transplant procedures globally. The company is also developing a kidney NMP device, which is expected to be commercialized by 2030.

Expanding Access to Transplant Technology

OrganOx executive chairman Oern Stug described the company as a pioneer and leader in organ transplantation technology. He noted that the acquisition by Terumo will help expand the adoption of their platform, leveraging Terumo’s global infrastructure to benefit more patients around the world.

The deal is expected to address several critical challenges in the field of organ transplantation, including improving organ utilization rates, increasing the use of marginal donor organs, and enhancing post-transplant outcomes. By integrating these technologies, the combined entity aims to make a lasting impact on patient care and healthcare systems globally.

Addressing Key Challenges in Transplantation

The acquisition underscores the growing need for innovative solutions in the transplantation sector. With the demand for organs far outpacing supply, technologies like NMP offer a promising way to maximize the use of available organs and improve patient outcomes.

Terumo and OrganOx are well-positioned to lead this transformation, combining their respective strengths to create a more efficient and effective system for organ preservation and transplantation. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of such technologies could play a crucial role in saving more lives and reducing the burden on healthcare systems worldwide.

Uncover This Secret iPhone Feature to Boost Call Clarity

Understanding Voice Isolation on iPhone

Apple recently released the fourth public beta of iOS 26, which introduced several new features and improvements for developers and beta testers. Among these updates is call screening, a feature that enhances user experience during phone calls. However, one hidden gem that can benefit all iPhone users is Voice Isolation. This feature, designed to make calls clearer for the person on the other end, doesn't require you to be a developer or beta tester to use.

Voice Isolation was first introduced by Apple in 2023 with the release of iOS 16.4. The feature was initially added alongside Wide Spectrum for FaceTime calls in iOS 15 back in 2021. However, at this time, only Voice Isolation is available for regular phone calls.

When enabled, Voice Isolation works by muffling distracting background noises that might interrupt your conversation. Whether you're having a business call or catching up with friends, this feature ensures that external sounds like a barking dog or construction work nearby don’t interfere with your communication.

To activate Voice Isolation, you must be on an active phone call since the feature isn’t found in the Settings app. Once activated, it will remain enabled for all future calls unless you manually turn it off.

How to Enable and Disable Voice Isolation

Here’s a step-by-step guide to activating and deactivating Voice Isolation:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. While on a call, swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to access the Control Center.
3. Tap on Phone Controls near the top of your screen.
4. Select Voice Isolation to enable it.

To disable Voice Isolation, follow the same steps and tap on Standard in Phone Controls. This action will revert your microphone to its default setting.

Exploring Other Mic Modes: Wide Spectrum and Automatic

In addition to Voice Isolation, you’ll find two other mic modes in Phone Controls: Wide Spectrum and Automatic.

Wide Spectrum is different from Voice Isolation as it amplifies background sounds without affecting your voice. This mode is particularly useful for calls involving multiple people, ensuring that everyone is heard clearly. Currently, Wide Spectrum is only available for FaceTime calls. However, its presence in Phone Controls suggests it might become available for regular phone calls in the future.

Automatic mode allows the system to choose the best mic setting for your call. For instance, it uses Voice Isolation to block ambient noise during calls using the receiver and switches to Standard mic mode when using speakerphone.

For those interested in exploring more about iOS 26, there are several resources available. These include insights into the beta version, how to enable call screening, and a comprehensive list of new features Apple plans to introduce later this year. Additionally, an iOS 26 cheat sheet provides an early look at upcoming iPhone features.