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New findings from American researchers reveal notable variations in brain structure between boys and girls during developmental years. The information comes from a study overview reported by TASS, highlighting how the brain changes across childhood and differs by gender.

To build a clearer picture, researchers assembled a cohort of nearly 9,000 children aged 9 to 10. Parents were invited to bring their children in for regular MRI scans, enabling scientists to track shifts in gray and white matter over time. The central aim was to understand how developmental trajectories diverge between male and female brains and what those paths might imply for cognitive growth. The team’s observations support a long-standing hypothesis: the ways in which male and female brains mature can follow distinct routes, even when the endpoint is a functional, healthy adult brain. One striking finding concerned the passive mode network, a neural system that becomes particularly active when the mind is at rest and not directed toward a specific task. The study suggests that this network exhibits meaningful gender-related differences in both structure and maturation pace. These differences are tied to how efficiently the brain can manage activity during quiet periods, which has implications for daily functioning and learning, especially in settings that require sustained attention and problem solving. (Source: TASS)

Across the data, girls showed a higher density of connections among neurons within the passive mode network, along with greater white matter density in the brain regions linked to that network. Scientists interpret these patterns as indicators that girls may experience a somewhat faster pace of certain maturation processes in some neural circuits. The research also notes parallels between structural maturation and measures of cognitive development, such as the emergence of more advanced reasoning and processing capabilities during childhood. While these trends do not determine individual outcomes, they help explain observed age-related differences in cognitive performance and learning styles among school-age children and girls specifically. In practical terms, the findings suggest that classrooms and educational approaches may benefit from acknowledging that boys and girls may process information and respond to tasks differently at various stages of development. (Source: TASS)

Experts emphasize that brain development is a dynamic, long-term process shaped by a complex mix of genetics, environment, and experience. The current study contributes to a growing body of evidence showing that gender can be associated with distinct developmental timelines in brain maturation. These insights can inform educators, clinicians, and researchers as they design assessments, interventions, and curricula aimed at supporting all children through critical years of cognitive growth. As science continues to map how male and female brains reach maturity, it remains essential to view each child as an individual with unique strengths and challenges, rather than relying on broad generalizations. (Source: TASS)

Additional historical notes point to a broader interest in the intersection of neuroscience and culture, including how past discoveries about brain function have shaped our understanding of intelligence and learning. While some older hypotheses have evolved with new methods, the current work reinforces the importance of looking at brain development through a nuanced, evidence-based lens. In summary, the study provides robust evidence that gender-related differences exist in the pace and pattern of brain maturation, particularly in networks involved in resting-state activity. These findings help explain why boys and girls may show different cognitive profiles at certain ages and underscore the value of tailoring educational experiences to support diverse developmental trajectories. (Source: TASS)

A 45-year-old man lost his life in a car crash on the N-332 ring road in Torrevieja at dawn on Saturday. The collision occurred near four in the morning and involved a head-on impact between two vehicles at a location close to Nations Park. The incident unfolded as the sky was still pale and the city slowly stirred to the new day, casting a stark light on a road that normally carries steady traffic through the early hours.

Witnesses reported that two vehicles were involved in the wreck. The deceased is identified as a Peruvian driver. The second vehicle involved in the crash was occupied by a man of Irish descent who fled on foot after the collision. The age of the fleeing driver has not been disclosed, and the vehicle he was last associated with was described as a rental car used for tourism purposes, rented a few days prior to the incident. The scene quickly drew the attention of local authorities and emergency services, who began the response as soon as the alarm was raised.

Local police from Torrevieja were among the first units to reach the scene. While the Civil Guard holds primary responsibility along the route, the closest officers were on site and prepared to stabilize the area, secure traffic, and assist anyone in need of medical attention. Their quick positioning helped create a safer environment for responders who arrived shortly thereafter to manage the situation and protect the public from further risk on the roadway.

Medical teams, alerted by the Generalitat Emergency Coordination Center, arrived promptly to provide on-site assessment and care. The coordinated effort aimed to preserve life where possible and to support the investigation by documenting conditions at the time of the crash and the sequence of events as reported by witnesses and responders. The immediate priority was not only life-saving measures but also securing the roadway to prevent additional incidents and to facilitate the ongoing response.

The incident has prompted routine traffic-safety measures on the affected stretch of the N-332 ring road. Authorities emphasized the importance of cautious driving in the area due to its high traffic density, particularly during the early morning hours when visibility can be compromised and drivers may be adjusting to the day ahead. Road users were urged to follow detour instructions and to remain alert for the presence of emergency personnel and vehicular debris that can pose hazards to passing motorists.

Torrevieja’s N-332 ring road in a view from this summer

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The Torrevieja ring road is known for its single-lane, high-traffic segments that experience dense flow at various times of the day. It has long been a noted construction of reduced passing opportunities and regulated traffic patterns, marked by a continuous double-track section that has remained in place since 2014 across its eight-kilometer stretch. Overtaking is prohibited in this zone to maintain safety and smooth traffic progression for all users.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke at a press briefing in Tel Aviv, outlining a plan to depart Israel and travel to Jordan for talks with King Abdullah II. The exchanges would include meetings with Abdullah and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. The statements come as part of a broader diplomatic effort in the Middle East aimed at shaping regional dynamics around the Gaza conflict and securing the release of Israeli hostages. This update reflects a focused push to engage key regional leaders in the coming days as Washington seeks to prevent a wider spillover of the crisis.

Blinken indicated that his itinerary would center on interactions with leaders across the region. He noted potential discussions with officials in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Qatar, signaling an intensified multilayer approach to diplomacy. The aim is to coordinate a strategy that could influence Hamas, reduce violence on the ground, and create channels for negotiations on hostage releases and humanitarian access. The United States emphasizes a unified regional response to the situation in Gaza and the broader security implications for the region.

Recent reports from Israel indicate a significant military operation in response to the Oct. 7 attacks, including actions against Hamas elements believed to have been involved in coordinating the assault. Israeli officials have described incursions into territory linked to the attack and have cited the need to disrupt the organization’s capabilities. Observers note that the fate of hostages remains uncertain, with estimates suggesting a remaining number that could be substantial. The scale of the security challenge has prompted multiple international actors to reassess their positions and seek de-escalation avenues, humanitarian considerations, and a path toward accountability for aggression on all sides. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing military activity and political maneuvering shaping daily developments.

Commentary and analysis in regional media underscore the complexity of securing durable peace while addressing the immediate humanitarian crisis. Many observers stress the importance of coordinated international involvement, credible commitments from all parties, and transparent communication to avoid misinterpretation of intentions. The international community continues to monitor shifts in alliances and leverage potential incentives for restraint, with the ultimate goal of stabilizing the region and protecting civilian lives. This latest round of diplomacy reflects a concerted effort to bridge gaps between competing narratives and to lay groundwork for a sustainable path forward in a conflict that has far-reaching consequences for regional security and global stability.

QUESTION: The manifesto for a radical democracy centers on current populisms and what they mean for democratic life.

ANSWER: The book aims to understand why populism arises. It is closely tied to citizen anger, frustration, disillusionment, and a sense that the system is failing people. For years a narrative about democracy, capitalism, and globalization has been built that doesn’t fully match reality. Globalization has left some groups behind in ways that were not anticipated. There is a notable rise in authoritarianism: only about 8% of the world’s population lives in full democracies. The book explores how and why figures like Trump reached the presidency, why they could return, and why Europe is seeing strong populist currents on both the right and the left. It also considers Putin’s situation. The central claim is that the solution lies in more and better democracy within a context in which Western values face serious questioning. There is worry now about European elections. It feels like Europe is at one of the most critical moments in the past fifty years, and there is a sense that many people are focused on their own concerns.

Earlier it speaks about the European elections on June 9, seen as a moment where the ultraright might play a leading role.

The discussion emphasizes that rather than a sudden rise, it is a consolidation of influence. In Spain, Vox shows neither rapid ascent nor decline. It is clear that those who oppose human rights are not just outside the country; some are within it as well.

It is noted that Podemos has not stabilized and seems on a path toward disappearance, contrasting with Vox.

Populism is said to be contagious, and it is suggested that the Socialists’ party has adopted some populist traits, including a personality cult. For the PP, the same dynamic is observed, where Feijóo’s statements resemble Vox’s positions. In Madrid, the same pattern appears. One characteristic once admired in Spain’s politics, Fraga’s approach of incorporating far-right elements into a party, has faded. The Spanish right remains split into a hard line and an even harder line.

The discussion turns to building a new political alternative. What role should the PSOE play in fighting populism now that it is in government?

There was expectation that after the famous five-day reflection period, Pedro Sánchez would return with a commitment not to cross lines and with proposals to Feijóo for a new set of rules. Yet the underlying issue lies deeper. The PP believes victory comes by dampening PSOE supporters, while PSOE thinks it must provoke the PP to mobilize its voters. That approach is seen as a mistake. A comprehensive catalog of political problems requires broad agreements—from the General Council of the Judiciary, to regional funding, to water management. Without agreements, elections can be won, but underlying problems remain unsolved, fueling citizen anger and discouragement. The government should press forward by proposing a parliamentary and political code of conduct to Feijóo, and publicly list ten topics to start discussions on at the negotiating table.

The populist phenomenon is closely linked to citizen anger, to frustration, to disillusionment, and to a sense of disconnection from the system

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In this political climate, it seems unlikely to picture leaders from the PP and PSOE sitting together publicly to seek consensus. Do you see it that way too?

Civil society movements would play a role, as they have in other contexts. Even large German companies have taken public stands against the far-right, and some argue that businesses should commit publicly to defending democratic values.

Is such a step transferable to Spain?

No, not directly. Yet the speaker still hopes for it. A utopian idea, perhaps, but worth pursuing because the alternative is disaster.

As an economist, how does one explain Spain enjoying positive forecasts despite the political turmoil?

The answer lies in a point reached two decades ago that much of Europe envied in Italy: political crises do not automatically lead to economic or social crises. It is also true that national governments have less influence on economic development than they often claim.

From the Valencian community perspective, how does the speaker see the cycle change in the PSPV with Puig’s departure and Morant rising in Ferraz?

The speaker knows little about Diana Morant and has no strong opinion. It seems promising that she has served as mayor and holds a government role that gives her visibility. She could become a credible alternative, though being new and with a party still dealing with the post-Ximo syndrome does not make the task easy.

We are living in one of Europe’s most critical moments in fifty years, and we keep looking inward

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What about the former prime ministers? Does the speaker find it surprising that Zapatero plays a key role around the 23J elections and continues to influence the political landscape?

It is not surprising that his voice remains influential because he is someone who strongly believes in what he says. Ideally, the country would not rely on that extra boost, but it is understood that leadership sometimes needs reinforcement.

What about Pedro Sánchez’s leadership and the personality-driven style? Is there anxiety about a day after the Sánchez era due to the lack of a clear alternative?

Pedro Sánchez’s presence has become so dominant that imagining a future without him can feel dizzying. A leadership style with a strong personal pull has created an internal dynamic where dissent, even from Lambán, García-Page, or others, is often seen as betrayal.

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