Apple’s artificial intelligence lead, John Gianandrea, is departing the company. This decision comes as the Silicon Valley titan trails behind competitors in launching generative AI features, especially regarding the voice assistant Siri. Apple made the announcement on Monday, expressing gratitude for Mr. Gianandrea’s seven years of service.
CEO Tim Cook noted that his fellow executives played a crucial role in “building and advancing the company’s AI initiatives,” paving the way for continual innovation. Amar Subramanya, a seasoned AI researcher, will take over Gianandrea’s role.
In June 2024, Apple launched its significant AI product suite, Apple Intelligence, but it has been slow to integrate generative AI into its offerings compared to rivals like Google. While Apple has added features such as real-time language translation on its new AirPod earbuds—a capability Google introduced in 2017—and an AI-driven fitness app that uses AI-generated voices during workouts, substantial updates are still forthcoming.
The company has been hinting at AI-powered enhancements for Siri for over a year, yet the release has faced multiple delays.
“For Siri, we required additional time to achieve that high quality,” remarked Craig Federighi, Apple’s vice president of software engineering, during the company’s developer conference in June.
In a subsequent earnings call, Cook emphasized that Apple was “on track to create a more personalized Siri” with a launch targeted for the following year.
The appointment of Subramanya indicates a stronger focus on Apple’s AI strategy. Previously, he was Vice President of AI at Microsoft and spent 16 years at Google, where he led engineering for Gemini AI Assistant, recognized as a benchmark in the industry. Subramanya will report to Craig Federighi, who has expanded his involvement in the company’s AI initiatives in recent years.
On Monday, Cook shared that Federighi is “helping us advance our AI efforts, including overseeing our initiatives to deliver a personalized Siri experience to our users starting next year.” In their announcement, Apple stated that this marks a “new chapter” for the company as it “intensifies its efforts” in AI.
David Richardson, who served as the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, tendered his resignation on Monday after approximately six months in the role, as confirmed by two administration officials to NBC News.
Richardson’s short tenure as FEMA administrator occurred during a challenging period for the agency. Under President Donald Trump’s administration, significant budget cuts were proposed, and Trump publicly suggested the agency be phased out following the end of hurricane season in late November.
In a statement released Monday, FEMA along with the Department of Homeland Security, which governs the agency, expressed their “sincere appreciation” for Richardson’s “dedicated service.”
A DHS spokesperson announced that Karen Evans, currently serving as FEMA’s chief of staff, will take on the position of acting administrator effective December 1st.
Richardson mentioned on Monday that he had agreed to serve as acting superintendent during this critical period, indicating that his resignation stemmed from a desire to return to the private sector.
“I took on the role of acting administrator during hurricane season when no one else was available,” Richardson stated. “Hurricane season concludes on December 1st. The threats are nearly over, so it’s time for me to explore another opportunity.”
The White House directed all inquiries regarding Richardson’s resignation to the Department of Homeland Security.
During his time at FEMA, Richardson faced significant criticism for his delayed response to the catastrophic floods in July that struck the Texas Hill Country. He was unreachable for more than 24 hours after over 130 individuals, including 27 girls and their counselors, perished at Camp Mystic, a Christian youth summer camp, on July 4.
Texas Department of Public Safety personnel assess debris at Camp Mystic following flash flooding in Hunt, Texas. Julio Cortes / AP File
It was later disclosed that Mr. Richardson lacked experience in emergency management prior to his role as acting FEMA administrator. I was on a weekend vacation.
Richardson, a former Marine Corps officer, was appointed to lead FEMA on an interim basis in May after the previous acting administrator, Cameron Hamilton, was removed from the position following a brief tenure. During his time at FEMA, Richardson also served simultaneously as assistant secretary for the Office of Weapons of Mass Destruction Countermeasures at DHS.
This year, FEMA has faced increased scrutiny regarding its effectiveness in responding to hurricanes, floods, and other disasters, particularly as climate change has heightened the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
In a phone interview on Monday night, Richardson remarked that he understood his role at FEMA was to “shut things down” upon his arrival.
However, he noted that the agency’s experiences dealing with flooding in Texas and severe flooding in western Alaska underscored the agency’s necessity, albeit on a smaller scale.
“We need to empower states,” he asserted. He believes states can accomplish more but also trusts that Trump will implement reforms to the agency.
In an open letter issued in August, around 200 FEMA employees criticized the Trump administration’s disaster preparedness and emergency management effectiveness after the Texas floods.
The signatories expressed that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s request for the office to evaluate FEMA spending exceeding $100,000 impeded the agency’s response to the deadly disaster. They also pointed out that both Richardson and Hamilton lacked the “legal qualifications, Senate confirmation, and proven background” required for the role of FEMA administrator.
Following the publication of the letter, at least 21 FEMA employees faced suspension for signing it.
Richardson stated on Monday night that the $100,000 spending cap would not hinder FEMA’s response.
“If lives were in danger, we wouldn’t have surpassed the $100,000 limit,” he asserted.
Richardson succeeded Hamilton shortly before the commencement of hurricane season, after Hamilton testified on Capitol Hill claiming he believed it was not in the American people’s best interest to abolish FEMA.
This stance opposed President Trump’s proposal to dismantle FEMA and instead allow states to manage disaster responses.
Kristi Noem informed NBC News’ “Meet the Press” in June that President Trump aimed to reform the agency rather than eliminate it altogether.
Some of Richardson’s detractors, including former FEMA communications director Rafael Lemaître, expressed relief at his resignation on Monday. Lemaître is a member of the advisory board for Sabotaging Our Safety, an organization focused on disaster preparedness and emergency management issues.
“Choosing someone with no disaster management experience to lead FEMA is akin to putting a person in the cockpit of a plane during a hurricane who has never flown,” he commented in a statement.
Democratic members of the House Homeland Security Committee also welcomed the news of Richardson’s resignation.
“David Richardson was incompetent, inexperienced, and ill-suited to lead FEMA,” the group stated. “He will be remembered for vanishing when Texas families needed him the most. Thank you for your service.”
Gentle exercises, like walking, can enhance brain health
Gordon Scammell/Loop Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
Older adults, particularly those at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease, might slow cognitive decline by walking just 3,000 steps daily. The underlying reasons for this effect remain unclear; however, it could be linked to how regular exercise influences inflammation and blood circulation in the brain.
Earlier studies connecting regular physical activity to reduced cognitive decline often depended on individuals recalling their activity levels, with limited exploration into why staying active might offer such benefits.
To overcome these constraints, Wai Ying Wendy Yau and colleagues at Harvard University objectively tracked the physical activity of 296 cognitively healthy adults aged 50 to 90 through step-counting devices over a week.
Most participants also underwent brain imaging to assess baseline levels of misfolded proteins known as tau and beta-amyloid, which are believed to contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. These levels were typically evaluated every 2 to 3 years over a follow-up duration spanning 3 to 14 years. Participants took annual cognitive tests measuring memory and processing speed.
The research team estimated exercise’s impact on cognitive decline by feeding data from step counts, brain imaging, and cognitive evaluations into a statistical model. They discovered that participants with elevated levels of misfolded beta-amyloid who walked between 3,000 to 5,000 steps daily considerably slowed tau accumulation, but not beta-amyloid.
“[Exercise is] somehow hindering the spread of tau protein, which is more closely linked to symptom onset in individuals with [Alzheimer’s disease] than amyloid beta,” remarked Charles Marshall at Queen Mary University of London.
This was associated with an approximate 40 percent reduction in cognitive decline over a nine-year average follow-up, compared to participants taking fewer than 3,000 steps daily, categorized as inactive. Researchers, however, did not have data on whether any participants were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s during the follow-up.
Conversely, walking between 5,000 and 7,500 steps daily further slowed tau buildup, leading to a 54 percent reduction in cognitive decline compared to inactivity. However, exceeding 7,500 steps daily did not result in additional cognitive improvements. “The benefits with tau and cognition eventually reach a plateau,” Yau noted.
While the exact mechanisms through which regular exercise yields these effects remain uninvestigated, potential causes may include: Physical activity that diminishes inflammation purportedly caused by beta-amyloid and tau misfolding, disrupting neural connections, and damaging cells. Moreover, exercise could enhance blood flow or boost levels of protective hormones in the brain.
Nonetheless, this study does not conclusively establish that walking 5,000 steps daily directly contributes to slowing cognitive decline. Unidentified or unnoticed pre-existing conditions might impact individuals’ capacity and enthusiasm for exercising, according to Marshall. Various lifestyle and socio-economic factors that the research team considered may also affect activity levels and tau counts.
Nevertheless, given that regular exercise offers numerous health advantages, is inexpensive, and generally has few side effects, individuals should be encouraged to aim for at least 3,000 steps daily, even if the exact impact on cognitive function remains uncertain. “I always advise people not to obsess over numeric goals for step counts. It’s merely a target,” said Marshall. “What truly matters is maintaining regular physical activity, which doesn’t have to be at large volumes or high intensity.”
Prior research suggests that consistent lifestyle alterations, including exercise, can reverse cognitive decline. However, Yau emphasizes the necessity for further studies that randomly assign participants to distinct daily step counts to differentiate the effects of exercise from other lifestyle modifications and determine whether it genuinely slows tau accumulation.
On Tuesday, Spotify announced that its founder, Daniel Ek, will be stepping down from his role as CEO to take on the position of executive chair.
The streaming giant based in Stockholm revealed that Ek will be succeeded by two executives who will serve as co-CEOs. These two, currently recognized for their shared vision, will assume their new roles starting January 1st.
In a press release, Spotify explained that this transition “formalizes” the operational dynamics that have been in place since 2023, with Söderström and Norström leading the company’s strategic development and operational execution.
Ek mentioned that he has already “taken charge of a significant portion of daily management and strategic direction.”
“This change aligns our titles with our existing operational structure,” he noted. Ek further stated that he would focus on Spotify’s “Long Arc” in his capacity as executive chair.
During an online Q&A following the announcement, Ek clarified that his new role is not the ceremonial position that investors with a “US perspective” might expect.
In Europe, executive chairs typically take on “very active roles in business” and represent “specific stakeholders,” including government entities.
Ek emphasized that there are still growth opportunities ahead, pointing to “significant portions of the global market yet to embrace streaming,” spanning from Asia to Africa, as well as advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence.
“We are committed to pushing ourselves to move forward and maintaining focus on long-term goals,” he stated.
Since Ek founded Spotify nearly 20 years ago, the platform’s rise has fundamentally changed the music industry, ushering in the era of modern streaming. Currently, Spotify boasts a library of over 700 million subscribers, more than 100 million songs, 7 million podcast titles, and 350,000 audiobooks.
Tracking your daily step count is a straightforward method to assess your activity levels
Volkerpreusser/Alamy
While the widely accepted goal is to aim for 10,000 steps per day, research indicates that reaching just 7,000 steps daily can considerably lower the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, dementia, and depression.
The 10,000-step benchmark reportedly originated from a Japanese marketing initiative. Nevertheless, studies reveal substantial health benefits associated with this goal.
Standard exercise guidelines typically omit specific step counts. For example, the UK recommends moderate activity for a minimum of 150 minutes weekly, while the average adult should engage in being active for at least 75 minutes each week.
As Melody Ding from the University of Sydney remarks, “If you ask someone on the street about their steps, they might struggle to answer. How is ‘moderate to vigorous’ even defined?”
Tracking step counts using a wrist pedometer or smartphone may offer a practical solution for measuring activity levels. Therefore, Ding and her team aimed to determine how many steps are necessary for maintaining good health.
The researchers examined a total of 57 studies published between 2014 and 2025, encompassing a diverse group of adults, most of whom had no severe health conditions at the beginning of the studies.
Generally, increased physical activity correlates with better health outcomes. While walking 10,000 steps is superior to 7,000, the latter still offers significant health advantages. On average, individuals who walked 7,000 steps daily had a remarkable 47% lower likelihood of dying from any cause during the study period. Additionally, there was a 25% reduction in the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, leading to a 47% lower death risk.
This step count is also linked to a 37% decrease in the risk of cancer-related fatalities, a 38% lower risk of dementia, and a 22% reduction in depressive symptoms.
Ding emphasizes the importance of not deterring individuals from striving for 10,000 steps, noting, “While 7,000 steps are likely more achievable, it doesn’t imply it’s harmful to exceed that.”
“Targeting 7,000 steps feels far more attainable for many individuals compared to 10,000,” says Laura Fleming from Teesside University.
However, Ding cautions that if the goal of 7,000 steps still feels overwhelming, individuals should aim to increase their overall movement. Remarkably, the research indicated that even achieving 4,000 steps a day could reduce mortality risk by 36% compared to just taking 2,000 steps.
X CEO Elon Musk’s social media platform revealed on Wednesday that he would step down.
“Two years ago, I chose to resign as CEO of 𝕏,” stated Linda Jaccarino.
Musk replied to her announcement: “Thank you for your contributions.”
The departing CEO remarked, “When @elonmusk and I first discussed his vision for X, I realized that executing this company’s remarkable mission would be a lifelong opportunity. I am truly thankful for his commitment to protecting free speech, revitalizing the company, and allowing me to oversee the transformation of X into all my applications.”
Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 for $44 billion, subsequently rebranding it to X. Before her role at X, Jaccarino held a long-standing position at NBCUniversal, concentrating on advertising and partnerships. In March, Musk’s artificial intelligence firm, Xai, took over the social networking platform.
Throughout her time as CEO, Jaccarino often found herself managing public relations crises and addressing Musk’s contentious behavior. Shortly after her appointment, Musk publicly urged advertisers to exit the platform due to their involvement with anti-Semitic content, claiming they would “harm themselves,” which Jaccarino defended in an interview.
Jaccarino’s own outputs on X typically highlighted a more positive aspect of the platform, featuring significant retweets celebrating celebrity birthdays and events. However, CEOs often revert to damage control, including refusals. Reports from the Wall Street Journal earlier this year indicated that X, under her leadership, took aggressive measures against brands by threatening lawsuits. Under Jaccarino’s stewardship, the company initiated a lawsuit against an advertiser recovering ad spending post-Musk’s acquisition.
Issues on the platform persisted until Jaccarino’s announcement of her departure. The day prior to her resignation, Musk’s chatbot began posting support for controversial topics, leading the company to intervene by tagging the post with “Mecha Hitler” before apologizing for the “inappropriate” tweet.
Musk has been embroiled in controversy outside of X in recent months. His political rapport with Donald Trump, which emerged during the 2024 campaign, culminated in Musk being designated as a special government employee and the formation of the “Government Efficiency Bureau,” fully disclosed in June. The duo clashed over the U.S. president’s drastic taxation proposals, which Musk deemed as “hate.” The tech mogul has pledged to establish an independent political party aimed at ousting Republican members from Congress who supported the bill. Meanwhile, Tesla, the primary source of Musk’s wealth, has seen its sales plummet in reaction to his political involvement, distancing future buyers and existing owners from the controversial CEO. SpaceX is also struggling with its latest spacecraft, which has failed multiple launches.
In 2021, Google established an ambitious target to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Nevertheless, since that time, the company has taken a contrary path by investing in energy-demanding artificial intelligence. According to its latest sustainability report, Google’s carbon emissions surged by 51% between 2019 and 2024.
The intent behind the new research is to challenge even the vast statistics, contextualizing Google’s sustainability report and presenting a more somber outlook. A report from nonprofit advocacy group Kairos Fellowship revealed that, between 2019 and 2024, Google’s carbon emissions increased by 65%. Additionally, from the first year public data on Google’s emissions became available in 2010 to 2024, the total greenhouse gas emissions soared by 1,515%, according to Kairos. The report noted that when Google upped its emissions by 26% from 2023 to 2024, this was the largest increase within that timeframe.
“Google’s own data supports this assertion. Companies are accelerating climate crises, and key metrics—including emissions and water usage—are trending in a concerning direction for both us and our planet.”
The authors of the report found that they discerned Google’s energy consumption and the bulk of the figures used to calculate rising carbon emissions within the appendix of Google’s Sustainability Report. Many of these figures were not prominently featured in the main body of Google’s report, they claim.
Google did not respond promptly to inquiries regarding these figures.
The authors of the report, titled Eco Fail, attribute the discrepancies between the calculated figures and Google’s sustainability report to several factors. Google employs market-based emissions metrics, while researchers use location-based emissions. Location-based emissions represent the average energy consumed from the local electricity grid, while market-based emissions include the energy procured to offset total emissions.
“[Location-based emissions] Franz Ressel, lead researcher and co-author of the report, stated. Businesses may pollute in one area while trying to ‘settle’ those emissions by purchasing energy contracts from elsewhere.”
According to a Kairos survey, the energy demand from Google’s data centers has surged by 820% since 2010. Emissions from electricity purchases for data centers increased by 121% between 2019 and 2024, according to the report’s authors.
“This increase is equivalent to adding 6.8 TWh of energy consumption, comparable to the total energy used by the state of Alaska over a year,” Sugerman explained.
Based on the current trajectory, the Kairos Report authors assert that it appears unlikely Google will meet the 2030 deadline without considerable public pressure. Since 2019, Google has tracked three categories of greenhouse gas emissions, referred to as Scopes 1, 2, and 3, and has made significant reductions in Scope 1 emissions. According to the report, Scope 1 emissions, which include emissions from Google’s own facilities and vehicles, represent merely 0.31% of its total emissions. Scope 2 emissions primarily consist of indirect emissions associated with the electricity purchased to power its facilities, while Scope 3 encompasses indirect emissions from various other sources, including suppliers, the usage of Google’s consumer devices, and employee business travel.
“Continuing to expand at current rates is unsustainable,” Sugerman added.
Thirsty, power-hungry data centers
Amid the construction of resource-intensive data centers across the country, experts are scrutinizing Google’s water usage as well. Google’s sustainability report reveals a 27% increase in water withdrawal to 1.1 billion gallons between 2023 and 2024.
Kairos indicates that this volume is “sufficient to meet the drinking water needs of 2.5 million residents and 5,500 industrial users in Boston and its surrounding areas.”
Tech companies are facing both internal and external pressures to enhance the sustainability of their data centers with clean energy. Recently, Amazon employees proposed a series of shareholder proposals which compelled the company to disclose its overall carbon emissions and assess the impact of its data centers on the climate. This proposal was ultimately voted on. Multiple organizations, including Amazon’s Employees for Climate Justice, the Conservation Voters Federation, Public Citizens, and the Sierra Club, published an Open Letter in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Seattle Times, urging the CEOs of Google, Amazon, and Microsoft to “refrain from committing to new gas and delaying coal plants to power their data centers.”
“In just the last two years, your corporation has constructed data centers across the United States that could consume as much electricity as 4 million American households,” states the letter. “Within five years, these data centers alone will use enough electricity for more than 22 million households, comparable to the consumption of several medium-sized states.”
In its sustainability report, Google cautions that the company’s “future trajectory” may be influenced by the “evolving landscape” of the tech industry.
“We are at a significant inflection point due to the rapid growth of AI, which affects not just our company but the entire tech sector,” the report explains. “The unprecedented pace of development and potential nonlinear growth driven by the uncertain availability of clean energy and infrastructure needed to support this growth may affect our capacity to project future emissions and reduce them.”
The Kairos report criticized Google for its “heavy reliance on speculative technologies, especially nuclear power,” in pursuit of its 2030 zero carbon emissions goal.
“Google has concentrated on nuclear energy as a ‘clean energy solution’, despite the prevailing consensus among scientists and industry experts that achieving successful large-scale deployments will not happen in the near or medium term,” the report states.
Furthermore, the Kairos report contends that Google’s presentation of certain data can be misleading. For instance, in discussing data center emissions, Google claims a 50% improvement in energy efficiency over 13 years. The report’s authors argue that focusing on energy efficiency figures rather than sharing absolute emissions numbers obscures Google’s total emissions.
“Since 2010, the company’s overall energy consumption has increased by 1,282%,” the report concludes.
Email accounts have evolved beyond a traditional communication method; they are now central to the digital experience, as users access countless services ranging from shopping to social media. Therefore, forgetting a password or having your email compromised can lead to significant issues.
If you find yourself in such a situation, follow these steps to regain access to your email and secure other linked accounts.
What to do as soon as you discover your account has been compromised
Attempt to change your password from a device where you are still logged in.
Utilize familiar devices that you often use to access your email, such as your home computer or Wi-Fi-connected phones. It’s advisable to use the same browser if you have multiple installations.
Follow the account recovery process provided by your email service: Google or Microsoft. If possible, leverage your account or phone to access.
Even partial answers to recovery questions can be helpful, so provide as much information as you can, including any old passwords you may recall. Both Google and Microsoft offer guidance for this process. It may take up to 24 hours for account verification for recovery.
If all else fails, create a new email account to facilitate swift migration of your logins across various platforms and services.
Once you regain access to your account or create a new one, take the following steps
Create a unique, strong password for your email account. It should contain a minimum of 12 characters, with a mix of letters, numbers, and special symbols. Consider using Random Word Combinations or memorable lyrics and quotes, avoiding simple or easy-to-guess combinations. Use a password manager to keep track of it and other vital information.
Enable two-step verification using an app for generating codes instead of SMS text messages. Ensure you store the backup code securely.
Consider using a PassKey for authentication, which leverages devices or biometrics instead of traditional passwords, making it harder to compromise.
If you encounter issues logging in, set up a recovery email address and phone number to assist in regaining access.
It’s advisable to establish as many security questions as your account permits and answer them comprehensively. Make a note of your answers in a secure location.
RNA is believed to have been crucial in the initiation of life
Shutterstock/nobeastsofierce
The quest to decipher how dormant molecules might have sparked life brings researchers closer to their goal. A team has developed a method using partially replicable RNA molecules, suggesting that genuine self-replication could eventually be achieved.
RNA is a pivotal molecule in the discussion of life’s origins, as it can store information like DNA and catalyze reactions akin to proteins. While neither function is perfect on its own, the dual capability has led many scientists to theorize that life originated with self-replicating RNA molecules. “This was the molecule that governed biology,” says James Atwater from University College London.
Nonetheless, engineering self-replicating RNA molecules is a challenging task. RNA can form double helices similar to DNA, which can also be copied in a similar manner. By separating the two helices and adding RNA nucleotides to each strand, one could theoretically produce two identical helices. However, the binding between RNA strands is so strong that it complicates their separation for replication.
Recently, Attwater and his team found that a trio of RNA nucleotides (triplets) can be tightly bonded, preventing the strands from re-zipping. “Three is the sweet spot,” Attwater elaborates, noting that longer combinations are prone to errors. Thus, in their methodology, the team mixed RNA enzyme double helices with the triplet sequences.
By acidifying the solution and heating it to 80°C (176°F), the helices can be separated to allow for triplet pairing. When the solution is then made alkaline and cooled to -7°C (19°F), the highly concentrated liquid remaining as water freezes activates the RNA enzymes, which then bind the triplets together to form new strands.
Currently, researchers have succeeded in replicating RNA enzymes of up to 30 nucleotides in length from an original strand of 180 nucleotides. They believe that enhancing enzyme efficiency could lead to full replication.
Attwater highlights that this “very simple molecular system” possesses intriguing characteristics. One is the potential correlation between triplet RNA sequences and the triplet code that dictates protein sequences in modern cells. “There may be a connection between the biological mechanisms employed for RNA replication and the way RNA is utilized in present-day biology,” he explains.
Additionally, the team has identified that the triplet sequences most likely to facilitate replication exhibit the strongest bonding. This suggests that the earliest genetic code may have consisted of this set of triplets, which adds another layer of interest.
Researchers contend that the conditions required to support this process might naturally occur. Given the need for freshwater, it’s likely that such processes transpired on land within geothermal systems.
“The materials we see today can be found on Earth. Icelandic hot springs display a mixed pH, similar to what we use,” Attwater notes.
“RNA nucleotide triplets convey highly specific functional information in every cell,” remarks Zachary Adam from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “This research is captivating as it may indicate a purely chemical role (rather than informational) for RNA nucleotide triplets that could predate the emergence of living cells.”
Following Elon Musk’s exit from his role in overseeing the “Government Efficiency” initiative (DOGE), numerous governance analysts express concerns that Doge failed to enhance the quality of services provided by the government to American citizens.
“Across various efforts, we’ve observed significant attempts to influence public policy at the University of Michigan,” noted Donald Moynihan, public policy professor at the university. “Indeed, we have seen a decline in the quality of several government services.”
The world’s richest individual, Musk, was appointed by Donald Trump in January to lead the efficiency initiative but was restricted from serving as a “special government employee” for over 180 days due to his own business challenges.
While Musk claims that Doge has saved $150 billion during his tenure, many budget analysts have raised doubts about the validity of these figures. Musk has repeatedly been accused of exaggerations and false claims regarding savings, which represent just a fraction of the intended $1 trillion cuts.
Moynihan and other experts lament that Musk and Doge predominantly focus on the interests of business leaders aiming to maximize profits, rather than adopting a holistic strategy to enhance service efficiency.
Martha Guin Bell, executive director of Yale Budget Lab, emphasized Musk’s apparent disinterest in service improvement: “They referred to it as the ‘Governmental Slavery Ministry,’” said Gimbel. “There doesn’t seem to be a comprehensive plan to identify areas where government services can genuinely improve. Enhancing these services requires time, investment, and a commitment to building effective solutions.”
When inquired about whether Musk and Doge had improved government services, Zimbel burst into laughter. “Absolutely not,” she remarked. “There’s undeniably a decline in government services.”
Public policy analysts and citizens highlight numerous ways in which the Doge reductions have worsened government services, including longer appointment waits at veterans’ hospitals, extended holding times when calling the IRS, and increased wait times at Social Security offices. The departure of numerous experienced Social Security staff has resulted in much less assistance for welfare inquiries.
During a White House press conference on May 1, Musk defended Doge’s contributions: “I believe we have been effective overall. It may not be as effective as I had hoped, and we could achieve more,” Musk stated. “However, we’ve made advancements.”
Musk conceded that his $1 trillion goal proved to be more challenging than anticipated. “It’s truly about the discomfort the Cabinet and Congress are experiencing,” he remarked. “We can accomplish this, but we must address numerous complaints.”
The White House has not responded to inquiries regarding the decline in certain government services or how Doge has improved them.
Gimbel cautioned that many Americans may not realize the impending decline in government services as tens of thousands of ordered job eliminations unfold. “It’s certainly going to worsen,” she noted. For instance, the government is set to reduce 80,000 positions within the Veterans Affairs Department.
Numerous public policy experts believe Trump and Musk are greatly exaggerating claims of rampant waste, fraud, and abuse within the government, although Zimbel acknowledged that inefficiencies do exist. “There’s definitely room for improvement, and we can pursue it,” she stated. “Government officials are aware of where these inefficiencies lie. Much modernization of technology is needed. Yet, Doge seems uninterested in pursuing these concerns, as well as issues with Medicare and Medicaid over-expenditures.”
Max Stier, president of the Public Services Partnership, a nonprofit research organization, criticized the approach taken by Musk and Doge, likening it to actions of business executives like Jack Welch known for prioritizing cost-cutting over understanding organizational intricacies. Stier lamented that Musk and his team made abrupt cuts without adequate comprehension of the roles and responsibilities of those affected.
“Jack Welch would disapprove of the approach Doge has taken,” Stier remarked. “It’s not solely about saving costs; it disrupts organizational capabilities. Welch never let go of staff without understanding how the organization functions and the competencies of those laid off.”
Stier highlighted Musk’s assertion that Doge was meant to cut costs and enhance organization, stating, “It’s difficult to find a rational basis for the decisions being implemented. Americans certainly witness no improvements.”
“We are compromising the government’s capabilities,” he continued. “It’s evident that people are being let go aggressively, disrupting government services without any comprehension of the outcomes and results. It’s broken. It’s broken. This mindset is not prevalent in Silicon Valley.”
The claim of $150 billion in savings attributed to Musk appears to be a substantial overestimation, as it disregards significant costs associated with the Doge initiative, Stier argued. His group has indicated that due to layoffs, reemployment, retirement benefits, paid leave, and decreased productivity linked to over 100,000 workers, taxpayers are likely to incur $135 billion this year. Several public policy experts believe increased wait times and frustration should also count against the purported $150 billion in savings from Doge reductions.
Moynihan stated that Musk’s vision fundamentally misunderstands the role of government efficiency. “His perspective suggests that government officials are incapable of delivering value,” Moynihan commented. “Consequently, the notion of tools to enhance government services is completely foreign to Musk.”
“It appears he thinks civil servants lack competence, so there’s no harm in cutting their positions,” Moynihan added. “This perspective fails to recognize the importance of public services, their existence, and the benefits they provide to society.”
Liz Scheller, president of the AFL-CIO, the leading U.S. labor federation, remarked that Doge’s cuts adversely affect workers. She referenced the rapid reductions at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, indicating that the agency plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of personal protective equipment for firefighters.
“Doge essentially cuts line items from a spreadsheet, which has real-life implications for real people,” Shuler said. “Federal workers have been treated with blatant indifference, exhibiting nothing but dehumanization and humiliation.”
Gimbel of Yale Budget Lab cautioned about another significant flaw in Doge’s cuts. “One of the government’s responsibilities is to mitigate risks,” she stated. “Ensuring food safety is one such example. Government inspectors help prevent threats like Listeria or Salmonella. Reducing the number of food inspectors won’t lead to immediate increases in illnesses, but it may enhance the chances of outbreaks like Listeria and Salmonella in the ensuing years.”
Jason Citron, co-founder of popular social chat app Discord, resigned as the company’s chief executive on Wednesday.
Citron said in a statement that the new CEO is Humam Sakhnini, a 15-year veteran of the video game industry. Sakhnini was previously vice-president of Activision, the game publisher behind titles such as Call of Duty and Candy Crush.
Discord was released as early as this year and is valued at around $15 billion by private investors in 2021. The app is particularly popular among gamers, with over 200 million users.
Citron will remain on the company’s board of directors and will become Sakinini’s advisor, he said in a statement. Sakhnini helped oversee Activision when Microsoft bought it for $69 billion in 2023 and resigned from the company shortly after the acquisition.
in Interview Using VentureBeat, a game publication that previously reported on management changes, Citron said he was “a more builder, an early stage guy” and “hiring someone like Humam is a step in that direction.”
Discord was founded in 2015 by Citron and Stanislav Vishnevskiy.
The company grew over the years and gained particularly popularity during the pandemic, when interest in video games reached its peak. In 2021, Discord discussed acquisitions in the $10 billion range with Microsoft, but no deals were made.
Last year, Citron testified at an online congressional hearing on child safety, where the senator grilled him and Chief Executives of Meta, Tiktok and X on safe lapses on social media platforms.
Discord makes money primarily from premium subscription services, but in recent years it has expanded its advertising by people using the app and revenue from so-called microtransactions.
Smartphones are essential in today’s modern life, containing everything from photos and messages to credit cards and bank accounts. Losing or having one stolen can be a nightmare beyond the monetary value of the device.
If this unfortunate event happens to you, taking the following steps can help safeguard your data, prevent fraud, and possibly even lead to the recovery of your phone.
Losing or having your smartphone stolen can be a major inconvenience. Photo: Chris Root/Aramie
Steps to Take as Soon as You Realize Your Phone is Missing
Locate and track your phone using Apple’s Find My iPhone or Google’s Find My Device feature if it’s turned on. You can do this from a computer, tablet, or another smartphone.
Use the tracking feature to remotely lock and mark your phone as lost, protecting your data and preventing unauthorized transactions. You can also remotely erase the device if necessary.
Contact your network provider to block the SIM card and suspend any billing activities. Make sure to disable any payment features linked to your phone.
Notify your credit card company to disable any cards stored on your phone for Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Report the theft to the police and provide them with your phone’s IMEI number, which can be found in your Apple or Google account settings.
Contact your insurance provider if you have coverage for lost or stolen phones.
Change the passwords for your important accounts, starting with your email to prevent unauthorized access.
Remove your phone from all accounts and services to prevent unauthorized access to your personal information.
Actions to Take When You Acquire a New Phone
Setting up security features on your new phone can prevent future incidents of loss or theft. Photo: VladySlav Yushynov/Alamy
When you get a new phone, take the following precautions to ensure the safety of your data and device:
Set strong PINs, short screen lock timeouts, and enable biometric authentication to secure your phone from unauthorized access.
Familiarize yourself with the phone’s settings to enable remote tracking, locking, and erasing in case of loss or theft.
Activate theft protection features such as Stolen Device Protection for iPhone or Theft Protection for Android to safeguard your sensitive data.
Secure your SIM card with a PIN to prevent unauthorized use or transfer to another device.
Make note of your phone’s IMEI number for identification purposes.
Utilize biometric authentication for banking and sensitive apps to enhance security.
Disable certain settings and features to prevent unauthorized access to your phone and data.
Backup your device’s data and settings using cloud services to protect your information.
Marce Gutierrez-Glaudis was thrilled to participate in a historic event last month when over 170 countries gathered in Busan, South Korea, to negotiate a binding global agreement to reduce plastic pollution.
“We were hopeful that this would mark the end of our meetings,” shared a marine conservation expert from California who was part of the U.S. delegation, speaking to NBC News.
However, a global agreement did not materialize as countries failed to reach a consensus during the fifth and final round of the UN Intergovernmental Negotiating Commission.
“I am planning to engage in at least one more round in late spring or summer,” Gutierrez-Growdish mentioned. Instead of delaying potentially problematic treaties for years, he emphasized the importance of investing more time in exploring methods to oversee funding, transparency, and national accountability.
Marce Gutiérrez-Graudiche founded Azul, a nonprofit organization that protects marine resources, after witnessing the decline of fish in her work in commercial fishing and aquaculture.Provided by: Azure
Wrapping up the year, a Mexican-American environmental leader shared insights. As the Founder of Azure, they are committed to safeguarding marine resources through positive and forward-thinking actions.
Researchers project that without effective measures, plastic pollution could double by 2050, while a global treaty could potentially reduce it by 91%.
Despite challenges like the recent deadlock and the uncertain future in South Korea, concerns linger about the next Trump administration potentially causing a breakdown. Gutierrez-Groudish emphasized the need to focus on collaboration rather than political affiliations when it comes to international agreements and environmental protection, stating, “We must set aside our political or federal preferences.”
Experts in marine conservation stressed the bipartisan nature of environmental issues, finding resonance among the Latin American community. “People are becoming more aware that things are changing and crises are on the rise.”
For instance, in California, residents are witnessing escalating temperatures, water scarcities, and increased wildfires, while across the nation, devastating impacts from recent severe hurricanes are evident.
Regarding plastic use, Over 70% of Latino voters backed bans on single-use plastics, while 75% supported regulations on plastic manufacturing chemicals. The majority favored an international treaty to eliminate plastic pollution, even if it meant adhering to challenging and costly regulations in the U.S.
While recent headlines have focused on microplastics’ presence in humans, Gutierrez-Groudish advocates for a comprehensive approach targeting plastic production’s root causes and impacts.
Highlighting the need to address the entire plastic production lifecycle and its repercussions, she and her team are formulating a comprehensive plan for forthcoming international conferences.
Witnessing the Impact Directly
Before establishing Azul in 2011, Gutierrez-Graudish began her career in commercial fishing and aquaculture, overseeing logistics and operations—experience that sensitized her to environmental degradation due to dwindling fish supplies and rising fuel costs. “I observed it firsthand,” she shared. “It was a profound moment that steered me towards conservation.”
As she gears up for global negotiations, her nonprofit Azul is actively spearheading three campaigns in her state. The Deja el Plastico (No Plastic) initiative endeavors to mitigate plastic pollution in California, leading to a state-wide ban on single-use plastic bags in 2016.
Gutierrez-Glaudis noted that Latina grandmothers can offer practical examples of reducing plastic consumption, alluding to the “Abuela Bag.” “My grandma had reusable bags, not the trendy eco-friendly ones you find at stores, but the concept remained the same,” she reminisced.
Azul’s Vamos a La Playa (Let’s Go to the Beach) campaign centers on coastal accessibility, seeking to ensure Californians can enjoy shoreline access granted under the more than 40-year-old California Coastal Act. She accentuated the importance of clear communication at local levels to inform communities of their rights.
“Many people don’t realize that the coast is for everyone, and we need to rectify any sense of exclusion,” Gutierrez-Groudish emphasized. “I’ve witnessed this firsthand.”
Having also launched the Latino Marinos (Latino Mariners) Campaign, an advocacy branch inspired by her experiences, Gutierrez-Graudis aims to foster inclusivity and provide resources for underrepresented groups in maritime conservation.
Marce Gutierrez-Glaudis will speak to students at the GenSea Binational Academy in November.Provided by: Azure
“We are creating an inclusive environment and providing opportunities and tools,” Gutierrez-Groudish shared. “Our mission is to translate potential, not just language but transformative opportunities.”
A couple of years ago, Azul unveiled the Rising Leaders Initiative, offering a chance to visit Washington, D.C. for Ocean Week and interact with elected officials.
Excited about the increasing diversity within conservation fields, Gutierrez-Groudish praised social media for making conservation more accessible. She encouraged enthusiasts to connect virtually and engage with organizations like hers to enter the conservation arena.
For individuals wondering about their environmental impact, Gutierrez-Groudish reassured them by stating that every effort counts, even simple actions like using reusable items and reaching out to elected representatives can make a significant difference.
She advocated that caring for the environment is not limited to specific actions, but rather stems from mindful decisions and actions.“People used to say to me, ‘I don’t drive a Prius.’ If they’re making mindful choices and valuing environmental issues, they too are environmentalists,” she concluded.
If you are not only keeping up with the health news of this year, but also following all its recommendations, you are on your way to a truly healthy life.
First, you have probably adjusted your eating habits. Maybe you have been motivated to go vegan after reading an article that claims a diet can reverse your biological age in just eight weeks, or because scientists have found that in combination with exercise, weight loss can be achieved. You might have experimented with intermittent fasting.
You could have opted for a Mediterranean diet to keep your brain young, or increased your fiber intake to make up for a deficiency that most people supposedly have, according to scientists.
Adopting a vegan diet for just 8 weeks can change DNA methylation patterns and reduce biological age – Image credit: Getty Images
It is equally possible that conflicting evidence has led you in a different direction. After all, one study linked intermittent fasting to a 91 percent higher risk of cardiovascular death, and another warned of cancerous mutations during the post-fasting eating period. Several major studies are also reconsidering calorie restriction as the best way to extend lifespan.
Even the negative reputation of ultra-processed foods was a topic of debate. One study showed that avoiding ultra-processed foods reduced the risk of cognitive decline by 12 percent, but a 30-year Harvard University study suggested that ultra-processed foods are not as harmful as we believe.
If you have given up on your diet altogether, we don’t blame you. Ultimately, it was the new weight-loss medications, including those initially in pill form and an alternative to Ozempic that does not cause muscle loss, that gained significant attention.
Early indications of “exercise drugs” brought hope even to those who are unable to be physically active. While some researchers were encouraged by two studies suggesting that walking alone can improve cardiovascular health and reduce back pain, others found that just one exercise session per week could reduce cognitive decline by 13 percent.
More than 50% of men will be bald by the age of 50. A breakthrough in 2024 could change things – Image courtesy of Getty
Scientists claim that the anti-aging solution is within our bodies, as they have discovered that white blood cells can be reprogrammed to target and eliminate senescent cells. Elsewhere, the Atlas of Aging explains why our muscles weaken as we age and how this process can be halted.
Furthermore, a British study found that a simple intervention dramatically reduced peanut allergy rates by 71 percent.
Meanwhile, new possibilities have emerged in the field of hair removal after researchers revealed that a naturally occurring sugar in the human body can help treat male pattern baldness.
In the medical field, a new breath test that can detect lung cancer early is showing promise, and an Irish research team believes they have developed a way to vaccinate against eczema.
Researchers have developed a respiratory sensor that can detect early signs of lung cancer by identifying specific chemical changes, providing a simple, non-invasive screening method – Image courtesy of Getty Images
In positive news, a survey reveals that life is not solely about money. Some of the world’s poorest regions, which rely on nature rather than income, reported higher life satisfaction scores than countries at the top of the World Happiness Index (such as Finland, Denmark, and Iceland).
There was also one health news item that did not offer any new information. It is already known that spending time with dogs can increase your sense of well-being and brain wave activity. We certainly take that advice to heart…or head to the park to play.
‘I
I think AI is going to change everything,” San Francisco Ballet Artistic Director Tamara Rojo told me earlier this year. “We just don’t know how.” Artificial intelligence’s influence on the creative industries can already be seen everywhere in film, television and music, but dance relies heavily on live bodies performing in front of an audience. As a format, it appears to be somewhat isolated. However, this week, choreographers Ao Nakamura and Esteban Lecoq, collectively known as AΦEis launching Lilith.Aeon, what is billed as the world’s first AI-driven dance production. The performer, Lilith, is an AI co-created with Mr. Nakamura and Mr. Lecoq. “She” appears in an LED cube, which the audience moves around, and their movements trigger Lilith’s dance.
Nakamura and Lecoq argue that they are interested in enhancing storytelling, rather than pursuing cutting-edge technology for its own sake. Working as dancers with the theater company Punchdrunk opened their eyes to the idea of immersive experiences, which led to virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and now AI. Their question is always, “How can we make this technology happen?” But it’s not like robots are going to take over the world.
Lilith.Aeon’s story is inspired by transhumanism (using technology to evolve beyond human limitations) and began as a script written by an AI bot. Nakamura and Lecoq provided all of their research to AI, including images, audiobooks, and discussions. “And we were able to interact with the AI, collaborate with it, and co-create the work together.” The two created a “dictionary-like” step that Lilith was trained on; The AI continued to generate new “words” of its own. They were excited when Lilith did something they never expected, but the choreography is still tailored to their aesthetic. “It’s not random,” Lecoq says. “I’m not interested in looking at things like screensavers.”
“It’s not random. I’m not interested in looking at things like screensavers.” … Lilith.Aeon. Photo: Shaneobenson @Shaneobenson
You can’t talk about AI in dance without talking about Wayne McGregor. Always at the forefront when it comes to technology, I first started researching AI 20 years ago. McGregor developed it in collaboration with Google. Somais a choreographic tool trained on his 25-year archive of work that can analyze thousands of hours of video and derive real-time suggestions, just as dancers improvise in the studio. He used AISOMA to generate a new version of his 2017 work autobiography It varies from performance to performance. His latest project, which opens next year, is on another earthdeveloped with Professor Geoffrey Shaw in Hong Kong, uses a 360-degree screen with sensing technology to allow viewers to build their own experiences.
choreographer alexander whitley We are also developing ways to use AI to integrate audiences into our work. The VR version of The Rite of Spring works on using audience movements as triggers for avatars trained on Whitley’s database of choreography. This technology allows amateur spectators to make their movements more artistic, and even allows them to arrange their movements to the music, like a dance version of Autotune.
Technology is developing rapidly. A type of motion capture that was once the province of Hollywood studios is now accessible through an app on your phone (try it) Move.ai), much of the progress is being driven by the gaming industry. However, there are some pitfalls that are worth looking into. Video game performers, including motion capture actors, impressive In the US, due to concerns about being replaced by AI (similar to the actors’ strike in 2023). Dancers are already being recorded by companies that build motion banks (“We’ve done about a million projects that require motion capture, like someone spinning on their head,” McGregor says). And the issue of rights and royalties when using dancers’ movements (and expertise) to train AI is a big one. McGregor said outright acquisitions were common in motion capture deals in the past. “We didn’t understand how the technology would be applied in the future.” He is currently working with Arts Council England on intellectual property (IP), motion data and “ethical AI”. I would like to take action. If done well, this could become a new source of income for dancers. “Coding choreo makes coin,” quotes Jonzi D from a hip-hop show. frayedfeaturing AI-generated dancing avatars.
But what if you want to create coins for others? Dancing is an ever-changing art form, passed down through dance floors, studios, and now social media, and where ideas originate. It can be difficult to know or prove what happened. You can copyright a dance piece, but you can’t copyright a step, as dancers who tried to sue the makers of the video game Fortnite discovered. Files can be copyrighted. Nigerian choreographer Kudus Onyikeku uses AI to recognize and classify movements to build a dance databank and protect intellectual property, especially of black artists, which has often been exploited in the past. We are conducting research.
Artists who are serious about AI are partnering with big companies like Nvidia, Amazon, and Dell. They get technology, and in return companies get ideas, accolades, and importantly, data. Are they selling their souls or just pragmatism? Potentially, it affects both directions. “We don’t want to be an adopter of technology,” McGregor says. “You want to be part of the conversation from the beginning and be the voice. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, otherwise you’ll just be servicing the technology.” Often developing tools Commercial funding is the only way to do so, and some tools have the potential to democratize dance and demystify it. Whitley is working on software that can be used in education, allowing students with no dance knowledge to create their own choreography on screen.
A scene from Wayne McGregor & Co.’s Autobiography (v95 and v96) held at Sadler’s Wells, London, earlier this year. Photo: Tristram Kenton/Guardian
“I think humans and AI can do great things together,” says Jonzi D. But he also notices that most of the AI-generated content he sees has a certain similar look. “It comes down to how creatively you can use it.” Lecoq agrees that if everything is trained on the same content, everything will look the same. Art will undermine itself. “It would be lazy not to push the boundaries further,” he says. AI is not a shortcut when developing technology as we go along, as AΦE does. “It’s a long cut. It’s a very difficult and lonely process.”
Rojo thinks of several useful applications for AI in dance. For example, algorithms that can solve the headache of recasting a ballet when someone is injured can calculate who is available, who knows the role, etc. in seconds. Less useful, she says, “is if the composers were changed, the set and lighting designers were changed,” and the choreography patterns were created by artificial intelligence. “And it’s not outside the realm of possibility.”
However, computer intrusion into creativity is nothing new. “Computers are the future of dance,’’ said the choreographer. Merce Cunningham Back in 1995, he had already been working on the LifeForms program for six years, manipulating avatars on screen and transmitting the results to dancers. The intention was to shed the dancers’ natural habit of one movement instinctively leading to another and find something new, which choreographers have always tried.
So is that good or bad for the industry? “I try to avoid the binary of technology as either a savior or a destroyer,” Whitley says. There will inevitably be disruptive effects on the industry, “but there are also some really exciting possibilities that come with it.” Not all dancers will lose their jobs. “I’m not worried about turnover at all,” McGregor says. For him, it’s about using technology to better understand the complexities of the human body. “And we are far from building a version that somehow replicates the brilliance of the human body. Human virtuosity and ingenuity are what we are most often associated with.”
Watching dance is also about getting to know the limits of the human body and seeing it reach its limits. There’s no point in having an avatar that can do anything. Mr McGregor said: “There is no danger in the digital world.” But even if there is AI intervention in the choreography, “when performed by living, breathing humans, it becomes meaningful and tangible.” says Whitley. “Certainly, live performance cannot replace digital experiences,” Nakamura says. She’s not interested in seeing real people replicated on screen (“What do you mean?”), but with Lilith.Aeon, she wants to create something that couldn’t exist otherwise. I’m thinking. But despite the fact that AΦE is pioneering the latest in artificial intelligence, Lecoq claims that they are not very interested in technology. “The best technology that I like is the washing machine and the microwave.”
As temperatures rise in many parts of the world this summer, staying cool can be a challenge. Imagine wearing a furry coat all day in such heat – not fun, right?
Our furry friends face this reality, which is why they need extra attention when the weather gets hot.
“Dogs rely on panting to cool down, which is less efficient than sweating,” explains Dogs Trust to BBC Science Focus.
“They lack self-control, so they don’t realize when they need to slow down due to heat.”
Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to keep your dog calm and happy when temperatures soar.
1. Walk your dog in the mornings and evenings
Like humans, dogs can overheat if exercised in direct sunlight. Research shows that a significant number of heatstroke cases in dogs are caused by exercise, with walking being a common trigger.
One recommendation from The Kennel Club is to walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the hottest times of the day.
2. Stay hydrated
Just like people, dogs need to stay hydrated in hot weather. Carry water and a bowl for your dog when going out to prevent dehydration.
3. Harness your dog
Harnesses are recommended over collars, especially in hot weather, as collars can restrict airflow and hinder a dog’s ability to cool down through panting.
4. Watch out for symptoms of heatstroke and stroke
Heatstroke can affect any dog, with certain breeds and conditions increasing the risk. Look for signs like excessive panting, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and more.
5. Remember that the sidewalk can be hot for your feet.
Test pavement temperature with your hand before letting your dog walk on it. Hot pavements can burn your dog’s paws, so stick to grass or cooler surfaces.
6. Try paddling
Give your dog access to water for a cool dip. A paddling pool or water play can help them cool off and have fun.
7. Be careful when traveling by car
Avoid leaving your dog in a hot car and take precautions for car journeys to ensure your dog’s comfort and safety.
8. Offer frozen treats
Provide your dog with frozen treats to help them cool down. Avoid harmful foods and opt for ice in their water or frozen toys.
9. Have the person lie down on a damp towel
Use a damp towel to help your dog relax and cool down after a hot day.
10. Get a haircut
Trimming your dog’s hair can help keep them cool, especially in hot weather. Proper grooming can assist in heat dissipation and prevent overheating.
For more tips and information on caring for your dog in hot weather, visit the Dogs Trust website.
About our experts
Victoria Phillips Veterinary Manager at Dogs Trust, with 18 years of experience in the veterinary field.
Walking 9,000 to 10,000 steps a day appears to protect against early death and heart-related events
Pippa Samaya/Getty Images/Cavan Images
Walking 9,000 to 10,000 steps a day appears to reduce the risk of early death and heart-related events, adding legitimacy to an idea that has been criticized as unscientific.
The exact origins of the popular belief that people should aim for 10,000 steps a day are unknown, but it is believed to be related to a marketing campaign promoting pedometers in Japan.
Now, research by Matthew Ahmadi Professors at the University of Sydney in Australia suggest that this number may have some value.
The researchers analyzed more than 72,000 participants in the UK Biobank study, with an average age of 61, who wore movement-tracking accelerometers on their wrists for a week. “We were able to quantify the number of steps we took each day,” Ahmadi says.
Participants were then followed for an average of just under seven years, during which time there were 1,633 deaths and 6,190 heart disease-related events. The researchers found that the optimal number of steps per day is 9,000, after adjusting for other factors that may influence the risk of illness and death during that period, such as diet quality, smoking status, and other physical activity. I calculated it to be ~10,000 steps, after which the benefits begin to gradually decrease.
Doing so was found to reduce the risk of death by 39% and risk of heart-related events by 21% during the follow-up period.
“This paper will help the field take a major step forward in refining the science behind physical activity and sedentary time guidelines. Pardon the pun,” he says. Dale Esliger At Loughborough University, UK. “It seems to support the idea that the 10,000 step goal, which is not evidence-based to begin with, may indeed be about right.”
However, on the other hand nicolas berger Researchers at Britain’s Teesside University said the study was “very well designed” using “rigorous methodology and statistical analysis”, but Esliger said the wrist-worn acceleration It says that the meter is not always the best indicator of step count.
The researchers also didn’t take into account the number of steps taken per minute. “Probably about 6,000 steps performed at a higher cadence may be just as protective of your health as 10,000 steps at a slower pace,” Esliger says.
Let's be honest: Email can be a nightmare. Most of the time, we're all just trying to find that vital needle in a haystack of spam, receipts, and old messages from family members who refuse to start group chats.
This never happened before. In the good old days, email was easy, unintrusive, and frankly boring. That's exactly what it was supposed to be. Now, if every coffee shop you've ever visited in your life is trying to get you, you have two options – sink or swim.
For some people, email means spending hours sorting through, responding to, and fixing the clutter in their inbox. For others, it's easier to ignore everything and reach into his heap of messy emails to get what they need… but you don't have to be like any of these experiences. Actually, there is a better way to email.
we talked Paul LevyA social scientist and digital mastery expert, he helps organize the world's chaotic digital lives, from email to social media. He will give you tips and tricks to get you back on your feet.
1. Ignore the Inbox Zero Myth
Created by productivity expert Marlin Mann, Inbox Zero is a concept that's gotten a lot of attention. The concept is incredibly simple. There are no emails in your inbox (who would have thought!).
However, getting there is much more complicated. To get to this point, you should delete all emails unless they contain ongoing correspondence or important information. After a rather long sorting process, everything that's left is put into a folder and voila! You have reached inbox zero.
Some people swear by this technique, but it’s not a winner for everyone. Entire magazine article about its flaws. So where does Inbox Zero fit in? “It's like fighting a fire or trying to keep your head above water,” Levy says.much evidence suggests The thing is, this drip-feeding system of erasing emails is actually not that efficient.
It’s been about two years since Sheryl Sandberg stepped down from the board of Facebook’s parent company, Meta.
As Chief Operating Officer of Meta, Mr. Sandberg was the lead architect of Facebook’s digital advertising-driven business model.
The 54-year-old announced he would step down from his role in June 2022 and step down from the Meta board after his term ends in May.
“The Meta business is strong and well-positioned for the future, so we feel now is the right time to exit,” Sandberg said in a Facebook post, adding that he has asked the company’s advisors to He added that he will take office.
Sandberg joined Facebook from Google in 2008 and will step down as head of operations at Meta in 2022, a position he held for 14 years.
In response to Sandberg, Meta CEO and founder Mark Zuckerberg said he looked forward to “a new chapter together.”
Sandberg, once Zuckerberg’s second-in-command, was one of the company’s most visible executives.
While serving as chief operating officer of Mr. Zuckerberg’s social media empire, she covered the Cambridge Analytica scandal, the use of the Facebook platform in organizing the 2021 Capitol riot, and Facebook’s massive success. faced a number of controversies, including continued concerns about mining user data to power its advertising business.
Prior to joining Facebook, Mr. Sandberg was vice president of global online sales and operations at Google and served as chief of staff at the U.S. Treasury under former President Bill Clinton.
Sandberg, a Harvard graduate, is the author of several books, including the 2013 feminist manifesto “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.”
Google will soon This allows users to store their location data on their devices rather than on Google’s servers, allowing police and law enforcement to tap into Google’s vast bank of location data to identify potential criminals. We were able to effectively put an end to years of surveillance practices that allowed eavesdropping.
The use of so-called “geofencing warrants” has exploded in recent years, largely due to the proliferation of smartphones and the ability of data-hungry companies like Google to siphon and store vast amounts of users’ location information. This is due to the fact that it is now possible to obtain it by law. Request for enforcement.
Police can use geofence warrants (also known as reverse location warrants) to ask Google to hand over information about whether a user’s device was in a particular geographic area at a particular time.
This week’s Google announcements I didn’t mention geofencing warrants. Specifically, it only says that users will have “more control” over their data by storing location data on their devices. In effect, this move would result in police seeking a search warrant to access that specific device, rather than requesting the data from Google.
Although Google is not the only company targeted by geofencing warrants, it is the largest collector of sensitive location data and the first company to be intercepted.
The act of police eavesdropping on users’ location data to Google is revealed for the first time Google has long relied on user location data to power its advertising business, which generated about 80% of Google’s annual revenue, or about $220 billion, in 2022 alone.
However, in reality, this surveillance technique is believed to be much more widespread. Law enforcement agencies have since expanded location data requests to other companies. Microsoft and Yahoo (which owns TechCrunch) are known to have received geofencing warrants, but neither company has yet disclosed how many requests for user location data they receive.
The number of lawsuits related to geofencing requirements has increased rapidly in recent years.
Police in Minneapolis used geofencing warrants to identify individuals who participated in protests following the killing of George Floyd. The 2022 overturn of Roe v. Wade will allow law enforcement in states where access to abortion care is restricted or where it is illegal to seek an abortion to identify people seeking care. Concerns were raised about the potential use of geofence warrants. Lawmakers later called on Google to stop collecting location data, saying it could be used to identify people seeking abortions.
The companies have said little about the number of geofence warrants they receive, but last year Google, Microsoft and Yahoo supported a New York bill that would ban the use of geofence warrants statewide. This bill failed to become law.
Google has not disclosed how many geofencing warrants it has received in recent years. Google has released its latest (and only) disclosure about the number of geofence warrants it received in 2021, following pressure to release the numbers following growing criticism of its surveillance practices.
According to the data, Google received 982 geofence warrants in 2018, 8,396 geofence warrants in 2019, and 11,554 geofence warrants in 2020. This represents about a quarter of all legal claims received by Google. Although the disclosure is limited, it provides a first glimpse into the surging number of such requests, but Google is concerned about how often the search giant pushes back against legal requests for its users’ location data. Or, if there was, they didn’t mention it.
News that Google will soon move your location data to your devices drew cautious praise.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation, which challenged the constitutionality of geofencing warrants in court, said: in a blog post “At least for now, we intend to take this as a victory.” But EFF pointed out that there are other ways for Google to hand over users’ sensitive personal data. Law enforcement agencies use a similar legal request, called a “reverse keyword” warrant, to identify Google accounts that searched for specific keywords in time, such as before a crime was committed. Google has not said whether it plans to close a loophole that allows police and law enforcement agencies to issue so-called “reverse keyword” warrants for users’ search queries.
Geofencing warrants won’t disappear overnight. Google still maintains a vast bank of historical location data, which law enforcement can access at any time until Google determines it no longer needs to be retained. And while tech companies store large amounts of user location data, they may also be subject to similar legal claims.
But the hope is that by closing the door on geofencing warrants, Google could significantly reduce this surveillance loophole, at least going forward.
in Latest transparency report In 2022, Apple announced that it received 13 geofencing warrants requesting customer location data, but did not provide any data in return. Apple said it has “no data to provide in response to geofencing requests” because the data resides on the user’s device and cannot be accessed.
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