Tag Archives: engineering

Will a Ban on Genetic Engineering in Wildlife Hinder Conservation Efforts?

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The concept of genetically modifying wild lions sparks debate

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Is there a need to genetically modify wild lions? While it may seem unnecessary, it provokes a quick reaction. Consider a scenario where a devastating disease, introduced by humans, threatens their survival. What if genetic alterations could boost immunity against this disease, providing a natural evolution path through time as more lions perish?

This debate is fracturing the environmentalist community, with discussions set to intensify. Next week, at a meeting of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)—the leading conservation organization—delegates will vote on a proposal to “suspend” genetic engineering in wildlife, including the introduction of modified microorganisms.

“I’m uncertain how the voting will unfold,” says Piero Genovesi from the Italian Institute of Environmental Protection, who backs an open letter opposing the proposal.

While the IUCN’s moratorium on synthetic biology carries no legal weight, it may still have significant repercussions. Various conservation organizations might halt projects involving genetic engineering, and some nations could incorporate such restrictions into their laws.

“Moratoriums would undoubtedly pose challenges on various fronts,” states Ben Novak, of the US-based nonprofit Revive & Restore, which aims to leverage biotechnology for the recovery of endangered and extinct species.

Why is this issue gaining attention now? The answer lies in CRISPR. In 2014, the potential for gene drives using CRISPR technology was demonstrated. Gene drives allow specific DNA segments to be passed down through generations, enabling them to spread even if detrimental. This technology could theoretically eliminate invasive species or spread beneficial traits like disease resistance.

Discussions emerged at a 2016 conference in Hawaii regarding employing gene drives to eradicate invasive mosquitoes that have decimated Hawaii’s native bird species, according to Genovesi. Reactions were mixed; some were enthusiastic, while others expressed deep concern.

This tension led to the proposed moratorium. “Gene drives are being promoted by some as a one-size-fits-all solution to environmental issues,” mentions Ricarda Steinbrecher from Econex, an organization also advocating for the moratorium.

However, the broad language of the proposed motion could affect much more than just gene drives. It might unintentionally restrict passive conservation efforts and the use of live vaccines.

Steinbrecher suggests the moratorium is a temporary halt, indicating another vote may take place later “when more data becomes available.” However, with many proponents of the ban being staunchly against genetic engineering, changing their perspectives may be challenging. “I’m concerned it could lead to an extended pause,” Genovesi states.

Imagine the prospect of using gene editing to make wild animals disease-resistant. While Steinbrecher raises concerns about unintended consequences, current evidence suggests the risks remain low. This is why some genetically edited foods are already being consumed, and the first CRISPR therapy received approval last year.

The same considerations regarding benefits and risks are applicable to conservation efforts. For instance, is it preferable to witness global warming decimating coral reefs rather than releasing genetically engineered symbiotic algae to enhance coral heat tolerance?

The scalability of such endeavors is crucial, asserts Novak. Manual transplanting of corals will not be enough to salvage the reefs. “Synthetic biology tools are essential for achieving the broad objective of restoring 30% of land and saving seed varieties,” he emphasizes.

Ultimately, this discourse revolves around conflicting visions of nature. Some regard it as a pristine entity, wary of genetic modification. Nonetheless, humans have already altered nature significantly. Our actions have unintentionally interfered with genetic selection through practices like hunting, pollution, pesticide use, and the introduction of invasive species and diseases.

These actions necessitate adaptations among many species for their survival; for instance, specific elephant populations are now nearly devoid of tusks.

However, this does not imply that further interference will yield positive outcomes. The release of gene drives carries significant risks, such as their potential spread beyond intended targets.

Researchers are cognizant of these hazards. Methods like self-limiting gene drives can be implemented to prevent unrestrained gene dispersion.

“We are confronted with a severe biodiversity crisis,” Genovesi argues. “We shouldn’t close ourselves off to innovative tools that could assist us in combatting substantial threats.”

Conservation and Rewilding in the Central Apennines: Italy

A journey through Italy’s central Apennines introduces the practical realities and philosophy behind rewilding.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Urgent Need to Discuss Geographic Engineering

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We are moving towards a significantly warmer future. As we go, there’s a substantial risk of reaching a “tipping point” that could drastically worsen climate disruption. With our failure to decrease carbon emissions, geoengineering’s allure for cooling the planet is growing, but is that a sound solution?

“Geoengineering can avert climatic tipping points, but it can’t be delayed,” some researchers suggest, proposing that injecting solar-reflecting aerosols into the stratosphere might prevent collapse events, like the slowing of vital ocean currents. Yet, the risks associated with geoengineering are considerable.

Initially, achieving an international agreement on this matter seems unlikely; if a single country acts independently, it could lead to severe consequences, like altered rainfall patterns globally. If one nation perceives itself harmed by another’s geoengineering efforts, we might find ourselves in a climate conflict where geoengineering is weaponized.

Even with a consensus, the situation remains complicated. If geoengineering goes awry, it could worsen conditions instead of improving them. There have been too few practical tests of computer models and geoengineering concepts for us to feel confident in their efficacy.

We might face a climate war where geoengineering is employed as a weapon.

The urgency is palpable. The sooner geoengineering is initiated, the better our chances of evading perilous tipping points. At the very least, it’s an avenue worth exploring.

However, many scientists oppose geoengineering research altogether. One concern is that it could be leveraged as a rationale for neglecting carbon reduction efforts. But that discussion is hardly impactful in a reality where U.S. President Donald Trump has rolled back climate initiatives without much justification (see “What will climate repercussions look like from Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’?”).

Geoengineering might be a catastrophic notion, but we won’t grasp its implications unless we conduct extensive research. This exploration is essential before we are compelled to take drastic measures without solid scientific guidance.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Geographic Engineering Is No Longer a Taboo for Scientists

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While we acknowledge that reducing greenhouse gas emissions offers a sustainable and long-term solution to climate change, we continue to see rising emissions. As some exacerbate climate challenges, others are exploring options that were once beyond the scope of mainstream discussion.

This article is part of our special issue, showcasing how experts evaluate some of the more unexpected concepts in science. Click here for additional details

The term “geoengineering” broadly refers to human interventions in climate systems aimed at maintaining ecosystems and cooling the planet. Yet, the definition of geoengineering remains elusive; it can encompass endeavors from reforestation to the deployment of massive underwater curtains to support ice sheets.

Some geoengineering concepts spark more debate than others. Large-scale reforestation, when executed properly, is generally seen as a positive climate action. However, more radical ideas—like altering sunlight’s interaction with the Earth’s atmosphere—invoke heightened concerns.

“The risk-return dynamics vary significantly,” states Janice Lachance of the non-profit American Geophysical Union (AGU), which has recently introduced an “Ethical Framework” for scientists in this field. She elaborates, “Planting trees in a park is relatively straightforward and widely accepted. However, when we delve into novel technologies and methodologies, the situation rapidly shifts.”

Take, for example, the concept of solar radiation management (SRM), which proposes reflecting additional sunlight back into space to cool the planet. This can be approached in three fundamental ways (illustrated in the graphics below). Although early modeling suggests that SRM could yield cooling effects within just a few years of implementation, it may also disrupt rainfall patterns and cloud formation.

SRM has historically been a contentious area of research, but as temperatures climb and climate impacts intensify, it has garnered attention from scientists, policymakers, and philanthropists alike.

While some activists argue against this line of research, fearing it diverts focus from the urgency of rapid emission reductions, Andy Parker of the Degree Initiative—a nonprofit concentrating on SRM—cautions that merely reducing emissions may no longer suffice for humanity to tackle climate change’s consequences.

“We must explore strategies to manage the risks posed by previously released greenhouse gases,” he asserts. Moreover, without international dialogue on geoengineering, “there’s a heightened risk of individual nations—especially those severely affected by climate change—unilaterally pursuing geoengineering projects.”

In this context, an increasing number of scientists are advocating for geoengineering research. “Some researchers feel they are falling short in meeting the objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement,” notes Lachance. Consequently, the AGU has devised an ethical framework to guide climate intervention research.

The concerns regarding research extend beyond methodologies. Concepts of planetary-scale geoengineering often place developing nations—particularly those near the equator—at greater risk of unforeseen consequences, such as disruptions to monsoon patterns. Yet, the majority of geoengineering research is concentrated in wealthier countries, which have less to lose.

As part of the Degree Initiative, Parker collaborates with researchers from lower-income countries in the Southern Hemisphere to develop SRM research capabilities. He hopes this will ensure that future deployment decisions take into account the populations most affected. “We don’t hold a stance on whether SRM should be utilized or not,” he explains. “What we do want is for developing nations to have informed avenues for their own research.”

Explore other articles in this series with the links below:

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Arup, a British engineering firm, duped out of £20m in deepfake scam

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Arup, a British engineering firm, fell victim to a deepfake scam when an employee mistakenly transferred HK$200 million (approximately 20 million yen) to criminals during an artificial intelligence-generated video call.

Reports from Hong Kong police in February revealed that an employee of an unnamed company was duped into sending a large sum of money in a fraudulent call impersonating a company executive.

Arup confirmed that they were the company involved and had reported the incident to the Hong Kong police earlier this year. They admitted that fake audio and video had been used in the fraud.

The company stated, “Our financial stability and business operations remained unaffected, and there was no compromise to our internal systems.”

Arup’s global chief information officer, Rob Greig, mentioned that the organization faces frequent cyberattacks, including deepfakes, as seen in this incident.

Greig emphasized the need for increased awareness regarding the sophistication of cyber attackers, especially after Arup’s experience.

A report from the Financial Times newspaper first identified Arup as the target of the scammers.

Arup, known as one of the world’s leading consulting engineering firms, employs over 18,000 individuals and is recognized for its involvement in projects like the Sydney Opera House and London’s Crossrail transport scheme.

Another recent case involving a deepfake scam targeted WPP CEO Mark Read, as reported by The Guardian last week.

Hong Kong police disclosed that employees transferred HK$200 million in total to five local bank accounts in 15 transactions during a video conference call where the perpetrators posed as senior company officials.

The investigation into the scam is ongoing, but no arrests have been made yet, with the case classified as “obtaining property by deception.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Rise of AI-Powered Engineering: Everything You Need to Know about this In-Demand Job

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According to the experts, this job in technology has the potential to generate significant income.

Artificial intelligence prompting engineers, who create questions and instructions to get sophisticated answers and images from programs like ChatGPT, are highly sought-after, high-paying positions with salaries over $300,000. Forbes reported.

“They just know how to write,” says Greg Belzer, head of technology at RBC Wealth Management, as told to ZDNET. This rapidly growing field has made many professional writers enthusiastic about this field of AI, according to a vice report.

“To help you engineer quickly, you have to put yourself in the user’s shoes. It’s more than just code,” Belzer explained. “It’s not just development. It’s more like a business technology skill set combined with creativity.”

This career advice comes as AI industry leaders warn that rapidly advancing technology could displace white-collar workers.

Artificial intelligence prompting engineers (those who create questions and instructions to get the most sophisticated answers and images from programs like ChatGPT) are highly sought-after positions. Marina – Stock.adobe.com
Business author Bernard Marr says agile engineers need data, project management, organizational and communication skills. Kwanchaift – Stock.adobe.com

Experts say people to be concerned about include programmers, computer programmers, journalists, software engineers, data analysts, paralegals, and legal assistants.

Data Scientist, once dubbed “The Sexiest Job of the 21st Century,” earns an average annual salary of $137,000 in New York, according to Built-in NYC.

“Today, a good prompting engineer is more expensive than a data scientist,” Belzer noted.

“It’s very difficult to find people with experience,” he added. “It’s hard to find people with more than five years of experience. You might get two or three years at most, but it’s hard to find.”

That doesn’t mean any old couch potato can make it to six figures. Experience is still preferred, just of a different kind.

“What we’re really looking for are people who are more likely to be on the business side with a technical bent,” Belzer reasoned. “Personally, I don’t want to bet until the tools are a little more advanced.”

This rapidly growing field has made many professional writers passionate about the field of AI. Golodenkov – Stock.adobe.com

Business author Bernard Marr says agile engineers need data, project management, organizational and communication skills.

“Just like you would give instructions and training to a human employee, you need to be able to express precisely and clearly what you want the AI ​​to do,” Marr wrote in a May article for Forbes.

“You have to pay attention to detail. If you can dig deep into exactly what type of response or content you’re looking for, you’ll be more successful at engineering quickly.”

The career advice comes as AI industry leaders warn that rapidly advancing technology could displace white-collar workers. MT.Photostock – Stock.adobe.com

Belzer said there is a “significant need” for training in AI prompt writing, but the technology field is difficult to define to industry standards.

“Is it science? Is it art? Are we going to build more tools?” Belzer questioned, adding that this great gig might also be automated by AI.

“The good news is that once tools are in place, it may be easier to train AI models using prompts that are performed ‘systematically and programmatically,’” he concludes. I attached it.

Source: nypost.com

The use of 3D atomic revelations revolutionizes alloy engineering

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UCLA scientists have accomplished a groundbreaking feat by mapping medium- and high-entropy alloys in 3D for the first time, revealing their unique combination of toughness and flexibility. This advancement has the potential to revolutionize the field of alloy design and utilization.

This study represents a significant achievement in alloy research, providing the first 3D mapping of medium- and high-entropy alloys. These materials have the potential to enhance toughness and flexibility, presenting a new approach to alloy design.

These types of alloys, which combine three or more metals in approximately equal amounts, have stable properties that blend hardness and flexibility not typically found in traditional alloys. In comparison, traditional alloys are predominantly comprised of one metal with smaller proportions of others. The discovery is based on the counterintuitive fact that small structural defects make metals and alloys stronger. The research team focused on a type of structural defect called a twin boundary, which is a key factor in the unique combination of toughness and flexibility of medium and high entropy alloys.

The researchers created nanoparticles using a series of metals, including nickel, palladium, platinum, cobalt, ruthenium, rhodium, silver, iridium, and more. The nanoparticles were then imaged using an innovative technique called atomic electron tomography.

The researchers found that the more atoms of different elements or categories of elements are mixed together, the more likely it is that the structure of the alloy will change and contribute to the harmonization of toughness and flexibility.

The study, published in the journal Nature, represents a significant step forward in understanding the structure and properties of medium- and high-entropy alloys. The research was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and conducted at Berkeley Lab’s Molecular Foundry.

This advancement has the potential to change the way alloys are designed and utilized. The possibility of avoiding the longstanding trade-offs inherent in most materials has the potential to significantly impact a wide range of applications, from buildings and transportation to appliances and tools.

Source: scitechdaily.com