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Data generated by AI models can contain subliminal signals that “train” other large language models (LLMs) on certain traits and biases. These preferences can be benign – a favorite animal, for example – but they can also cause LLMs to promote violent or dangerous behavior. The biases were conveyed even when the researchers asked the preferential LLMs to generate responses on a completely unrelated topic, cleaned the data of clues about the original trait, and used the filtered output to train student models. But such transmission only occurs when the “teacher” and the “student” share the same LLM base.
An analysis of DNA evidence from more than 15,000 ancient humans has revealed that human evolution has accelerated over the past 10,000 years. The researchers identified almost 500 Gene Variants Evolved by Natural Selection in Ancient Europeans and Near Easterners after the dawn of agriculture. Many of these variants are associated with resistance to diseases such as tuberculosis. The accelerated evolution may reflect an increase in lifestyle changes that began in the Neolithic period, such as new foods and pathogens, says population geneticist David Reich.
The structure of sperm whale communication has close parallels with the phonetics of some human languages. The whales (Physeter macrocephalus) communicate through a series of clicks called codes. Animals can distinguish sound by changing the length of the click or using rising and falling tones, researchers found follow patterns that resemble those used in human languages such as Mandarin and Slovenian. “We’re starting to see that these signals are organized in ways that we haven’t fully appreciated before,” says behavioral ecologist Mauricio Cantor.
The Keeper | 5 minutes of reading
Reference: Proceedings of the Royal Society B paper
Features and opinion
China’s Three Northern Protected Belts Program, also known as the Great Green Wall of China, is one of the nation’s largest programs to repel encroaching deserts. The project involves the creation of a vast mosaic of forests in northern China to act as a shield against the movement of sand. Efforts are succeeding where others have failedlargely thanks to the evolving strategy and long-term financial plan, writes a group of environmental researchers. Other countries could learn from the Great Green Wall’s promise — and mistakes — when planning future greening projects to replicate China’s success, the authors write.
nature | 10 minutes of reading
source: https://go.nature.com/41SWANZ
Decades after the world’s worst nuclear disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in northern Ukraine, the area “feels like the most picturesque nature reserve on Earth,” writes science journalist Matthew Sparks. But long-lived radioactive contaminants remain. And after the Russian attacks, the site bears new scars: vandalized laboratories, huge minefields and serious damage to the giant building that protects the reactor ruins. however the scientists who work there see its potential. “The Chernobyl zone is a unique place for researchers,” says radioecologist Sergiy Obrizan. Agricultural radiologist Katerina Shavanova agrees. “You need to understand our experience and use it. You can practice here. We can use it for something good.”
New Scientist | 16 minutes of reading
Sandalwood, vanilla, lavender – just the names of these plants remind of their unique smells. but they, along with countless others, are threatened by climate change. Another is frankincense, an example of a scent with deep cultural value. “It’s not just a smell, it’s 3,000 years of history that we’re losing,” says Cecilia Bembibre, a scent preservation researcher. Meanwhile, “increased pollution, increased ozone, etc. actually cause damage to the peripheral olfactory system and our ability to smell,” says cognitive neuroscientist Rachel Hertz.
Today I wonder which animal I would choose to represent me. I could play it safe with the usual mascot options like a lion, tiger, or bear (oh my!). Or, like the US state of Maryland, I can choose an epic, missing killer. Ratification Bill the megalodon (Otodus megalodon) as the official state shark currently working its way through the Maryland government.
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