Popularity in the lab: a Tom Gauld cartoon

China is changing its doctoral training rules so that PhD students in clinical medicine can earn their degrees without writing a traditional research thesis, according to Nature. The shift, with more degree programmes expected to follow, reflects a move to separate clinical training from research training and could reshape how China educates doctors and clinician-scientists. It matters because China trains a large share of the world's medical researchers, and any change to degree requirements can affect research output and the skills of future physicians.

Roku reported a strong third quarter, with sales climbing 24% year over year, according to Variety. The company credited its fastest growth in media and entertainment advertising spending in four years. The results signal that streaming ad budgets are recovering, a positive sign for the broader connected-TV ad market.

Scientists report finding fossilised red blood cells preserved in a dinosaur bone dated to about 115 million years ago. The discovery suggests some cellular structures can survive fossilisation and may offer new insights into dinosaur physiology.

Researchers reported that electrically stimulating part of the brain can make people try harder on mental tasks, but the effect carries a downside. The finding matters because it could inform debates over cognitive enhancement and the risks of brain stimulation.

OpenAI is increasing bug bounty rewards to encourage security researchers to report vulnerabilities. The move aims to strengthen incentives for defenders and improve security. Bigger payouts may help surface flaws faster and reduce risk.