The "And In Other News" Thread After Hours

[Spikey]

Microsoft is reportedly shutting down Skype in May 2025, marking a significant change in its communication approach.

The company is encouraging users to switch to Microsoft Teams, with the goal of merging its communication services into a single, more effective platform.

This choice is influenced by several reasons, such as rising competition from services like Zoom and WhatsApp, the need to adapt to a mobile-focused environment, and the internal competition from Microsoft Teams.

Although Skype was a leader in online video calls and helped make international calling easier, its popularity has declined in recent years.

I didn't even realise people still use Skype?!

 

[Tom]

At the 2025 World Government Summit in Dubai, UAE Minister Mohammad Al Gergawi predicted that over 20 billion robots will reshape societies, economies, and labour markets by 2050.

Reflecting on the past 25 years, he noted shifts in economic power, digital connectivity, and AI-driven warfare threats.

With 10 billion people projected by 2050, advancements in longevity, education, and space exploration will define the future.

 

[Dagmar]

In Japan, the company Ikemeso Danshi offers a unique service where people can hire "Handsome Weeping Boys" to watch sad movies with them and wipe their tears.

Rooted in the concept of "rui-katsu" or "tear-seeking," this service promotes emotional release and helps alleviate workplace stress by creating a safe space for people to express their emotions freely.

 

[Gemma]

People with a sweet tooth often experience higher brain activity in areas linked to pleasure and reward, such as the dopamine system.

Consuming sugar stimulates these regions, triggering feel-good chemicals that enhance mood and satisfaction.

This heightened response may explain cravings for sweets, though it doesn't mean overall brain activity is higher, just more reactive to sugary stimuli.

 

[Franco Pinion]

Colossal Biosciences has announced the birth of two genetically engineered wolf pups—Romulus and Remus —that exhibit physical traits reminiscent of the extinct dire wolf.

This achievement involved analyzing ancient DNA from two dire wolf fossils—a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull—to identify key genetic differences between dire wolves and modern gray wolves.

Scientists then made 20 specific genetic edits across 14 genes in gray wolf cells to incorporate these traits.

The edited cells were used to create embryos, which were implanted into surrogate domestic dogs, resulting in the birth of the two pups.

 

[Gemma]

Studies suggest that eating chocolate, especially dark chocolate rich in cocoa flavanols, can boost memory, focus, and brain function by improving blood flow to the brain.

Regular chocolate consumption has been linked to better cognitive test performance, though it's not a guaranteed way to raise test scores. Moderation is key for the best benefits.

 

[David76]

In China, working as a "panda cuddler" or "panda nanny" is a real job where individuals care for and interact with giant pandas.

These roles are typically based at conservation centres like the Giant Panda Protection and Research Centre in Sichuan province. Responsibilities include feeding, cleaning, monitoring health, and providing companionship to the pandas.

The position offers an annual salary of approximately $32,000, along with benefits such as free meals, accommodation, and transportation. Applicants are generally required to be at least 22 years old, possess basic knowledge about pandas, and have skills in writing and photography.

Sign me up

 

[Bad Gizmo]

A man in Poland was arrested after driving a Soviet-era T-55 tank through the streets while allegedly drunk ⁠
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The 49-year-old reportedly took the decommissioned tank for a spin in the town of Pajęczno, with stunned locals watching it roll through the centre late at night.⁠
⁠
He didn't get far though, as police showed up and arrested him at the scene.⁠
⁠
Turns out the tank had been legally transported for a parade but was left parked with the keys in. Big mistake.⁠
⁠
Authorities are investigating how he managed to fire it up, and if convicted, he could face up to 8 years in prison.⁠

 

[Dylan]

A study has shown that sitting in silence for just two hours a day can stimulate the growth of new brain cells, particularly in the hippocampus- an area linked to memory, learning, and emotion.

Unlike constant stimulation from screens or noise, silence allows the brain to rest and reorganise.

This regenerative process enhances mental clarity, emotional regulation, and cognitive function.

Regular moments of quiet may therefore be essential for overall brain health and long-term neurological resilience.

 

[Hedonistic Blonde]

A Florida man is facing up to 30 years in prison after posing as a flight attendant to book over 120 free flights.

Federal prosecutors say 35-year-old Tiron Alexander used fake airline credentials to access flights reserved for pilots and crew members, flying for free at least 34 times between 2018 and 2024.

He reportedly used around 30 different badge numbers across various airlines to pull off the scheme.

Alexander had prior experience in the airline industry, working in ticketing for Delta from 2010 to 2012 and briefly as a flight attendant for two smaller carriers after that. His past roles may have helped him bypass security and book the unauthorized flights.

He was convicted of wire fraud and unlawfully entering secure areas of airports under false pretenses. The case was investigated by the TSA and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office.