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Microsoft Posts Strong Earnings Despite Major Azure Outage

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On Wednesday, Microsoft addressed worries regarding excessive spending on AI, showcasing increased profits despite interruptions in its Azure cloud services and 365 office software. This strong earnings report follows a deal with OpenAI that raised the tech leader’s valuation to over $4 trillion.

Following disruptions to both the Xbox and Investor Relations pages, Microsoft issued a statement, noting, “We are actively resolving an issue affecting Azure Front Door, impacting the availability of certain services.”

Despite the service interruption, the company’s financial outlook remained robust. Microsoft reported first-quarter earnings of $3.72 per share, surpassing analysts’ expectations of $3.68, with revenue reaching $77.7 billion against an estimate of $75.5 billion, as per Bloomberg consensus.

This marks an increase from $3.30 per share and $65.6 billion in sales during the same period last year.

The Azure cloud division, closely monitored by Microsoft, exhibited approximately 40% growth, exceeding forecasts. Operating income rose 24% to $38 billion, surpassing expectations, with net income reported at $27.7 billion.

“Our global cloud and AI factory collaborates with co-pilots across high-value sectors to promote widespread adoption and tangible impact,” stated Satya Nadella, Microsoft Chairman and CEO.

“This is why we are continuously enhancing our investments in AI, in both capital and talent, to seize significant future opportunities.”

The company revealed spending a remarkable $34.9 billion on AI initiatives during the quarter, a 74% increase from the previous year.

Microsoft’s earnings report arrives as investors are responding positively to modifications in its contract with OpenAI. This shift will transition the once nonprofit AI organization into a for-profit entity, further integrating Microsoft with the company.

Under the amended agreement, Microsoft will possess 27% of OpenAI Group’s PBC shares, amounting to approximately $135 billion, while OpenAI’s nonprofit division will hold $130 billion in stock of the profit-making enterprise.

The earnings report offers Wall Street an updated perspective on the company’s growth in AI and cloud services. Nvidia recently became the first company to surpass a $5 trillion market capitalization, coinciding with favorable signs for a U.S.-China trade agreement. Earlier this week, the overall U.S. stock market achieved record levels, spurred by substantial investments in AI.

Microsoft’s earnings hit the headlines as the week unfolds with reports from the Magnificent Seven, a group of the world’s most valuable publicly traded companies, including Meta Inc. and Alphabet, Google’s parent company.

Amid growing apprehensions about a potential market bubble in AI-related investments reminiscent of the overinvestment seen in the late 1990s, it is suggested that bubbles may not be apparent until they burst.

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On the earnings call, Microsoft CFO Amy Hood attempted to ease concerns regarding a potential AI investment bubble, stating that the company’s rapid expansion of AI capabilities (up 80% this year alongside a plan to double its data center size in two years) is to fulfill already booked demand.

“The necessity for ongoing infrastructure development is extremely high, driven by business already booked, not new business,” Hood explained, noting that the company had been experiencing capacity shortages for several quarters.

“I hoped to catch up, but it didn’t happen,” Hood remarked. “Demand is escalating, and usage is growing quickly. When demand signs are visible and you know you’re lagging, spending is essential. But we’re investing with assurance based on our usage patterns and reservations, and we feel positive about that.”

Nonetheless, she cautioned that Microsoft is likely to remain “capacity constrained.”

According to Reuters, the collective valuation of AI and cloud computing firms is projected to hit $20 trillion, with the overall market return reaching 18%, or around $3.3 trillion, by 2025. Investors typically look for signs that AI capital expenditures meet expectations as the market continues to hit new highs.

Major tech firms like Microsoft, Alphabet, Meta, and Amazon are anticipated to invest hundreds of billions in capital next year, primarily directed at developing data centers and infrastructure for artificial intelligence. While investors might be unfazed by a lack of robust revenue growth, they may find reassurance in indicators of strong AI adoption. The Dow Jones Industrial Average reached a notable milestone of $47,943 on Wednesday morning.

“As five of the Magnificent Seven report this week, the market is eager for affirmation that all these AI capital investments are being made and that they are ensuring observable revenue and profit from AI,” commented Scott Wren, senior global market strategist at Wells Fargo Investment Institute in St. Louis, Missouri, to Reuters this week.

Elements of the AI economic surge might stem from cost-saving measures. Microsoft announced approximately 9,000 job reductions at the start of summer, while Amazon is reportedly considering cutting up to 30,000 corporate positions, or 10% of its white-collar workforce, to mitigate overhiring during peak pandemic demand.

As AI technology adoption increases, business leaders are increasingly tasked with justifying human hires, including roles in human resources and other executive positions that entail additional costs like health insurance and pensions, particularly when positions could be executed by AI. Consequently, human resources departments are likely to be among the initial areas downsized as AI continues to grow.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Newly Discovered Mongolian Bird-like Dinosaurs boasted Strong, Robust Hands

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Paleontologists have discovered a new species of Dromaeosaurus dinosaur from a nearly complete and unique skeleton found in Mongolia during the 2000s.

Reconstruction of Sri Lapax. Image credit: Connor Ashbridge / CC by 4.0.

This newly recognized dinosaur lived during the Campanian stage of the Cretaceous period, approximately 75 million years ago.

Based on various derived traits of the skull, vertebrae, and overall skeletal structure, this species can be classified within a group of bird-like theropods known as Dromaeosauridae.

It has been named Sri Lapax, marking it as the second species in this genus, following Sri Devi, which was identified in 2021.

“Dromaeosauridae represents a clade of small to medium-sized theropod dinosaurs that have been found in various Cretaceous deposits across North America, Asia, Europe, South America, and extending as far as Antarctica and Madagascar.”

“Remnants of feather-like structures, true pennaceous feathers, and gastrointestinal remains can be observed in well-preserved Dromaeosaurus specimens from the Lower Cretaceous period, such as Daurong Wanggi, Sinornithosaurus millenii, and Micro Raptor Zhaoianus.”

“Together with Troodontids, Dromaeosaurids are generally acknowledged as the closest modern relatives of birds.”

The nearly complete skeleton of Sri Lapax was discovered in the Djadochta Formation in Mongolia.

“This Dromaeosaurus specimen was illegally collected prior to 2010 and subsequently passed through private collections in Japan and the UK before being obtained by a French company,” noted paleontologist Eldonia.

“The precise location of the discovery remains unknown.”

“We plan to propose a tentative origin for it in the Mongolian Ukhaa Tolgod region based on documentation relating to the specimen.”

Holotype of Sri Lapax prior to preparations at the Royal Institute of Natural Sciences in Belgium in 2010. The arrows denote single femurs reconstructed using parts from both original femurs (which were separated during preparation). Image credit: Moutrille et al., doi: 10.1080/08912963.2025.2530148.

Sri Lapax exhibits a unique combination of vertebral and pelvic characteristics along with notably robust hands.

“One of the most distinctive features of Sri Lapax,” the researcher remarked.

“When adjusted for equal length, the phalangeal elements of the Pollex are about 150% more robust laterally compared to homologous elements in other Djadokhtan Dromaeosaurids, and these hands are stockier than those found in other known Dromaeosaurids.”

“We propose that frequent interactions with the Serratopsians, along with aggressive behaviors from those species, may have driven the development of more robust forelimbs and stockier hands in several Djadokhtan velociraptorines.”

“Assuming that Sri Lapax shared predatory habits with its close relative Velociraptor mongoliensis, the more robust construction of its hands suggests an adaptation for hunting larger and sturdier prey compared to typical Velociraptor diets.”

A study detailing this discovery was published online in the journal Historical Biology on July 13, 2025.

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Léa Moutrille et al. New bird-like dinosaurs from the Mongolian Upper Cretaceous period indicate niche diversification among belosirapthrins with particularly robust hands. Historical Biology published online on July 13th, 2025. doi:10.1080/08912963.2025.2530148

Source: www.sci.news

Inactive NASA Satellites Emit Surprisingly Strong Radio Pulses

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Illustration of NASA’s Relay 1 satellite, in front of Relay 2

NASA

A long-dormant satellite unexpectedly emitted a powerful radio pulse, momentarily surpassing all other celestial signals. Astronomers speculate that this flash may have resulted from a rare micrometeoroid impact or a spontaneous discharge.

NASA’s Relay 2 satellite was among the earliest operational satellites, launched as an experimental communications tool in 1964. Its use was discontinued the following year, and by 1967, the satellite’s electronic components had ceased functioning, leaving its metal frame orbiting indefinitely.

So Clancy James from Curtin University in Australia and his team were puzzled nearly 60 years later when they detected a burst of short, intense radio waves emanating from the satellite’s suspected location.

Utilizing the Australian Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), an array of 36 telescopes in Western Australia, James and his colleagues were searching the sky for signs of a mysterious radiation pulse from other galaxies.

On June 13th, they received a signal that seemed to originate from within our galaxy. “If it’s in close proximity, studying it through an optical telescope becomes quite feasible, so I was thrilled at the prospect of discovering a new pulsar or some other object,” Clancy remarks.

However, upon closer examination, the signal appeared to be quite close to Earth, which meant that ASKAP couldn’t focus on everything simultaneously. This indicated the source was likely within 20,000 kilometers of our planet, according to Clancy. The signal was notably short-lived, lasting less than 30 nanoseconds. “It was an exceptionally potent radio pulse that briefly outshone everything else in the sky,” Clancy explains.

When they traced the signal back to its source and compared it to known satellite positions, they concluded the only plausible explanation was Relay 2. Since that satellite is inoperative, Clancy and his team suspect that the signals may result from external events such as electrostatic discharges or micrometeoroids striking the satellite, creating clouds of charged plasma.

“It’s quite challenging to differentiate between these two scenarios,” says Karen Aplin from the University of Bristol in the UK. This difficulty arises because the radio emissions from both phenomena appear comparable. Yet, monitoring future electrostatic discharges from satellites could prove beneficial, she adds. “In an environment filled with space debris and numerous smaller, cost-effective satellites that lack sufficient protection from electrostatic discharges, this radio detection could ultimately lead to innovative technologies for assessing such discharges in space,” she concludes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Tech Stocks Climb Following Strong Nvidia Results, Despite Concerns Over Chinese Competitors

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Even though leaders in the AI chip industry have raised concerns about the emergence of Chinese competitors, tech stocks experienced an upswing on Thursday, buoyed by robust results from Nvidia.

The Stoxx Europe Tech Index increased by 0.8% on Thursday, leading to a 2.4% rise in Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML. Meanwhile, in the US, tech-focused NASDAQ futures surged by 2%, alongside a 6% pre-market gain for Nvidia’s shares.

The uptick in tech and artificial intelligence stocks followed Nvidia’s report that surpassed Wall Street expectations, with quarterly revenues jumping 69% to $44 billion (£32.6 billion). The company also expressed optimism that business transactions in the Middle East could offset losses from China.

In April, former US President Donald Trump announced restrictions on AI chip exports to China, effectively cutting off a significant revenue stream, although Nvidia continues to sell H20 AI chips to Chinese firms.

Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang cautioned that Chinese competitors are capitalizing on the vacuum left by US trade barriers. “Chinese rivals have adapted,” Huang stated to Bloomberg TV. He noted that Huawei, which has been blacklisted by the US government, is “extremely formidable.” “Like everyone, their capabilities are multiplying each year,” Huang remarked. “The volume has also significantly increased.”

While US government policies aim to shield AI technology from Chinese influences, Huang indicated that domestic businesses are simply exploring alternative options. “The importance of the Chinese market should not be underestimated,” Huang noted. “It’s home to the largest population of AI researchers globally.”

Nvidia mentioned that it anticipates losing out on $8 billion in revenue for the second quarter due to Trump’s trade restrictions.

Tech investors felt positive after a recent judicial ruling that might challenge the president’s aggressive trade regime, as the US trade court opposed Trump’s severe tariff policies. Nonetheless, uncertainty looms since the White House has already appealed this decision from the International Trade Court based in New York.

In other news, shares of Tesla, another key player in AI technology, climbed by 2.6% after CEO Elon Musk confirmed his decision to step down from his role in the Trump administration.

Musk has been “at the helm of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) since January, ruthlessly cutting expenditures across various public sectors and institutions. He announced in April his intention to resign following a decline in Tesla’s revenue and his failure to secure a Supreme Court position, which had consumed millions in support of Republican candidates.

Source: www.theguardian.com

What Defines a Kentucky Derby Champion? A Big Heart, Powerful Lungs, and Strong Legs

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Horses have honed their abilities, such as running, jumping, and pulling, as humans have bred and trained them for various purposes over thousands of years. The 151st Derby, the most-watched horse racing event, not only highlights the skills of these animals but also raises concerns about their treatment and well-being. Advocates have long voiced worries about injuries and fatalities, especially after twelve horses died at Churchill Downs two years ago.

There’s no doubt that the relationships between humans and horses have transformed warfare, agriculture, and society.

Timothy Winegard, a historian at Colorado Mesa University and author of the recent book, The Horse, remarked, “We’ve combined our intellect with the horse’s size, strength, stamina, and speed to create the most unstoppable animal coalition.”

Why Are Horses So Powerful?

The horse’s heart and lungs contribute significantly to its remarkable power.

Hearts typically weigh between 10-12 pounds (4.5-5.4 kg), roughly 1% of the horse’s body weight, compared to about 0.5% for a typical human heart. The famous horse Secretariat, who won the Triple Crown in 1973, was later found to have a heart weighing over 20 pounds (9.1 kg).

A horse’s heart is designed for exercise, with a resting heart rate around 34 beats per minute that can rise to 220 or 240 during a race—much faster than a human’s maximum during intense exertion.

Derma Sotogake training on the mornings of the 2023 Kentucky Derby.
Andy Lions/Getty Images

“One unique aspect of horses is their incredible capacity to circulate blood throughout their bodies. They can achieve high heart rates while remaining safe,” explained Sarah Reed, a researcher at the University of Connecticut.

Additionally, horses possess a lung capacity of 60 liters, ten times that of a human.

“This extensive lung capacity allows oxygen to efficiently transfer from the air to the blood, which is essential for sustaining aerobic energy,” noted Farmer.

Recent research published in the journal Science indicates that genetic mutations enable horses to mitigate the adverse effects associated with ultra-high energy production.

“Horses are exceptional athletes because they can deliver significantly more oxygen to their muscles than elite Olympic athletes. They have larger energy reserves and more efficient systems…and these mutations play a role in both aspects.”

What Contributes to a Horse’s Speed and Skills?

Various biological characteristics enhance a horse’s abilities.

Horses store excess red blood cells in their spleens, which are released to enhance oxygen transport during intense exertion.

“During exercise, adrenaline triggers the spleen to circulate these excess red blood cells,” said veterinarian Hillary Clayton. “Essentially, what a horse accomplishes is a form of ‘natural blood doping.’”

Honoring Marie at Churchill Downs in 2024.
Charlie Riedel / AP

Furthermore, a horse’s brain is adept at processing sensory information and reacting swiftly. Although their frontal lobe—the section associated with thinking and planning—is proportionally smaller than that of humans, horses are hardwired for play and independent running without fear, as explained by Dr. Scott Bailey, a veterinarian at Clayborne Farm. This focus is critical for athletic performance.

The bone structure and muscle makeup are also advantageous. The ligaments and tendons in their hind legs function like springs, and as Farmer noted, like other large prey animals, they possess “long, slender legs designed for running.”

What Are the Risks for Horses?

Adjustments that enhance a horse’s speed also increase the risk of injuries. Their slender legs endure the impact of each stride, and over time, repetitive stress during racing and training can lead to tendon and ligament damage, Reed stated.

In 2023, fatalities occurred not only at Churchill Downs but also at other major racecourses, affecting public perceptions of the sport and prompting changes. No specific cause of death was identified. However, in 2024, Churchill Downs improved the equipment used on its racing surfaces and added a veterinarian dedicated to horse safety and integrity.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

RFK Jr. offers strong support for measles vaccine

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During a rare sit-in interview with CBS News, National Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recommended getting a measles vaccine and stated that he was “unfamiliar” with reducing state and local public health programs.

The conversation took place after a visit to West Texas, where he attended the funeral of an eight-year-old girl who succumbed to measles. An intense outbreak in the area has resulted in over 500 illnesses and the deaths of two young children.

In a clip from the interview released on Wednesday, Kennedy emphasized the importance of the measles vaccine. He stated, “People should receive the measles vaccine, but the government shouldn’t mandate it.”

However, he also expressed concerns about the safety of the vaccine, as he has done previously.

Kennedy has been heavily criticized for his handling of the West Texas outbreak by health professionals who believe that lack of full support for vaccinations is hindering efforts to control the virus.

Additionally, he has promoted unproven treatments for measles like cod liver oil. Physicians in Texas have linked its use to signs of liver toxicity in some children admitted to local hospitals.

Throughout the outbreak, Kennedy has often combined his support for vaccines with discussions about safety concerns and an alternative “miraculous” treatment.

Recently, he took to social media to declare that measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines are the “most effective way” to prevent the spread of measles. This statement has relieved infectious disease experts but angered vaccine opponents.

That evening, he posted again, this time praising “two extraordinary healers” who claim to have successfully treated around 300 children with measles using antibiotics.

Scientists argue that there is no cure for measles and promoting alternative treatments undermines the importance of vaccination.

In a CBS interview, Kennedy was questioned about the recent suspension of over $12 billion in federal grants to state programs addressing infectious diseases, mental health, and childhood vaccinations.

(The cuts were temporarily blocked after a lawsuit was filed by a state coalition against the Trump administration.)

Kennedy claimed to be unaware of the suspension and suggested it was primarily aimed at cutting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs targeted by the administration.

Dr. Jonathan Lapook, a medical correspondent for CBS, inquired about specific research cuts at universities, including a $750,000 grant for diabetes research in adolescents at the University of Michigan.

Kennedy responded, “I was not aware of that, and that’s what we’re seeing. There were many research projects that caught our attention and did not deserve to be cut, and we are reinstating them.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

British Starlink User Disables Elon Musk’s Political Conspiracy Due to Strong Disapproval

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ESLA sales have fallen, and X has seen users leave, but now it appears that a crack is appearing among those who have turned to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite system as a way to maintain connections in remote areas.

The number of Starlink users is growing, but some subscribers have said they are venting their complaints about Musk’s political plot and will no longer use the high-speed satellite internet system.

Barry Nisbett, a Scottish fiddler Shetland Business Combining the music with a sailor, Musk’s controversial salute at Donald Trump’s inauguration event was one of the last straws that made him leave Starlink, citing whether he left Starlink, even if it put him at a disadvantage.

“For a while I’ve been deeply uncomfortable with the role he played in the US election and the monopoly he has that really bothers me,” he told The Guardian.

While Starlink controls the sector, signs of user anxiety will raise excitement among European tech enthusiasts and bring about the prospect of a homemade alternative that will eventually emerge. The value of Eutelsat, the French owner of OneWeb, London-based Starlink rival, has increased 500% since Trump’s oval office line with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Eutelsat’s chief executive told Bloomberg that the company could replace Starlink in a few months in places like Ukraine.

Viasat, which owns the UK network Inmarsat, is also in talks with the European government Regarding the replacement of Mask Star Link.

In the UK, Starlink is primarily used by people and businesses in rural areas with inadequate broadband access, but some buy “prepers” and technology.

StarLink installers for businesses and housing in the southern part of England told the Guardian that for now there is no better alternative to StarLink for those who need quick access to the internet.

“In the industry, we are stuck between rocks and difficult places. On the one hand, the necessary tools and solutions that exist in many rural areas, especially due to insufficient investment in infrastructure. But on the other hand, we now had to deal with Elon – to put it in politeness – the genitals,” he said.

“The majority of people who use it are those who need it because it’s remote, but there are also a few “chinfoil hats” brigade elements. ”

Richard Opie, a consultant living in a semi-rural Northumberland area, said BT hadn’t had enough and got Starlink during the pandemic, but now he was “wrestling” to decide whether to stay with the company or not.

“It’s a godsend, especially in remote areas, but things have developed politically ever since. Elon Musk is a very different person, and Tesla’s showroom is burned to the ground. I’m uncomfortable with how he gets into bed with Trump and how he throws his weight,” he said.

“It’s something we wrestled and saw alternatives, but we’re kind of stuck for now.”

However, Nisbet’s comments on Facebook’s “Starlink UK User Group” — he couldn’t justify supporting Starlink any further — sparked lively debate among users.

“I refuse to go to Trump’s hotel because I won’t give him a penny. Another StarLink user, Mel Sayer, said:

“I share your thoughts, but for now I’m stuck with Starlink,” says another user, Mike Brown. “Amazon is planning to launch rival services, but it probably won’t be until next year. We’ll jump the ship as soon as possible.”

Others are stuck with StarLink. “We’re looking forward to seeing you in the future,” said Paul Feekins, a consultant at West Sussex. “People use Starlinks because they can’t get an internet connection in any other way, but I think these idiots are making a statement by cancelling because they’ve come to oppose Yelon about something.”

Starlink has been requested for comment.

Starlink grew rapidly in the UK. This has gone from 13,000 subscribers three years ago to 87,000 last year.

This is Starlink’s popularity in some parts of the UK, with the company charging extra “crowd charges” in areas in high demand.

The company offers ultra-fast broadband speeds through satellite constellations. UK customers typically pay £75 a month over a 30-day period and £299 for hardware.

For non-customers, Starlink may be well known for its Ukraine use, essential to Kiev’s battlefield communication, after the Starlink terminal rushed after the Russian invasion in February 2022.

However, recently the outlook has grown that Ukraine will be cut from Starlink, With Reuters report US negotiators have lost their system and threatened Ukraine. Musk Tweet Weekend: “If I turn it off, their whole frontline will collapse.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Strong evidence of Ozempic and Wegoby reducing alcohol consumption

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People report lower alcohol cravings when using semaglutide

ShutterStock/David MG

According to the first randomized clinical trials of drugs for this purpose, semaglutide appears to help people who are truly obsessed with alcohol reduce their intake.

Semaglutide, sold under brand names including Wegovy and Ozempic, uses the work by mimicking the intestinal hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), so the technical term is GLP-1 receptor It's an agonist. This drug was first used to treat type 2 diabetes, but to reduce appetite, Wegovy is also approved for weight loss 8 countries. Semaglutide also offers tips to help with an extraordinary number of medical conditions.

Regarding alcohol use, there was a 2024 survey that 84,000 people injected Ozempic or Wegovy because of a lower risk of alcoholism. The results were promising and showed correlation rather than causality.

But now, Christian Hendershot The University of Southern California and his colleagues completed the first randomized clinical trial of the effects of semaglutide on alcohol use disorders.

Their trial involved 48 US people diagnosed with the condition, of which 34 were women and 14 were male. Half received a weekly low-dose injection of semaglutide for 9 weeks, and the rest received a placebo injection.

Semaglutide patients no longer consumed drinks per drinking session, reducing their weekly alcohol cravings compared to placebo drinks.

“There was no evidence of any significant adverse effects or safety concerns for drugs in this population. Overall, we found that it reduces the amount of alcohol people consume across several different drinking outcomes,” Hender said. Shot says.

“The results are promising.” Long Xu at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Ohio. “Despite the small sample size, this randomized clinical trial highlights the therapeutic potential of semaglutide in the treatment of alcohol use disorders.”

ziyad al-aly At Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, the study added ” yet another evidence of GLP-1RAS . [GLP-1 receptor agonists] It could help with addiction disorders.”

He needs greater research to answer questions about whether people will increase their drinking, especially when they leave semaglutide, particularly what the long-term impact is, and whether people will increase their drinking. He says. Bone and muscle mass.

The study should be treated as a promising first evidence, says Hendershot, but more research is needed. People should not start taking semaglutide due to alcohol problems, he says.

“This is the first study like this and people are excited about it, but we have approved effective drugs for alcohol use disorders, so more research has been conducted. Until now, people are encouraged to pursue and approve the existing medicines there right now,” says Hendershot.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Amazon’s Year-End Finish Strong, But Weaker Projections for Next Quarter

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Amazon exceeded Wall Street’s expectations by earning revenue in the fourth quarter of 2024, but it anticipates a decline in the coming quarter.

Finishing the year on a high note, the retail giant reported $187.79 billion in revenue and $1.86 per share, surpassing analysts’ revenue estimates of $187.3 billion and $1.49 per share.

The robust revenues reflect a strong holiday shopping season, with online spending increasing by 8.7% year-on-year in November and December, according to Adobe Analytics. Overall, consumers spent $241 billion over the two-month period, as reported by Adobe.

“The holiday shopping season was Amazon’s most successful ever. We are grateful for the support of our customers, sales partners, and employees who contributed to this success,” stated Andy Jassy, Amazon’s CEO. Read the full statement.

Despite beating expectations, Amazon fell short of analyst sales estimates for the next quarter. The company forecasts sales between $151 billion and $15.5 billion, while analysts had estimated $15.85 billion. Stock prices dropped after hours but recovered to previous levels the following day.

Wall Street has acknowledged Amazon’s cost-cutting measures in recent years. Jassy implemented layoffs and cuts across various departments, resulting in a positive financial impact on Amazon’s revenue.

During the revenue announcement, Jassy highlighted Amazon’s new innovations, particularly in artificial intelligence, such as the new AI chip Trainium2. Jassy emphasized the practical benefits of these technologies in the evolving tech landscape.

Amazon’s executive chairman, Jeff Bezos, has reconciled with Donald Trump after years of criticism. Amazon contributed $1 million to the president’s inaugural fund, and Bezos was present at Trump’s swearing-in ceremony.

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Jassy followed Trump’s lead by scaling back Amazon’s DEI efforts, and Bezos withdrew support for the Climate Change and Biodiversity Fund.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Deepseek Mania: Meta to Report Strong 4th Quarter Revenue

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Meta finally reported its fourth-quarter earnings more than 30 minutes after the market closed on Wednesday, exceeding Wall Street’s predictions. The company posted revenue of $483 billion and profit per share of $6.75, topping analysts’ expectations of $46.9 billion and $6.75 per share.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s founder and CEO, expressed his excitement for expanding initiatives in 2025.

The day before, Meta’s stock surged nearly 40% after an internal memo revealed record sales and earnings.

Zuckerberg told analysts, “This will be a significant year, and our long-term initiatives will become clearer by the end of the year.”


A report in the Wall Street Journal revealed that Donald Trump signed an agreement for Meta to pay $25 million to settle a lawsuit filed in 2021 after banning him following the January 6 attack.

Meta did not provide revenue guidance for 2025 but expects first-quarter revenue to be between $39.5 billion and $41.8 billion.

In a Press Release, Meta announced increased investment in AI infrastructure for 2025 and analysts expressed concern over revenue projections.

Meta also announced plans to develop personalized AI assistants, highlighting Meta AI as the most used virtual assistant.

Analysts remain optimistic about Meta AI despite competitors like DeepSeek gaining traction in China.

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Analysts compared DeepSeek with Meta’s AI models and Microsoft’s earnings were reported on the same day as Meta.

Concerns were raised regarding Meta’s decision to remove third-party fact-checking programs, with analysts emphasizing the importance of brand safety and user trust.

Despite criticism, Zuckerberg defended the changes, stating that community notes would enhance information accuracy on the platform.

Meta’s CFO Susan Lee affirmed strong advertiser demand despite content policy changes and the announcement of layoffs.

As Meta faces challenges and changes, analysts predict a momentum shift in the company’s performance in 2025.

Zuckerberg hinted at potential growth opportunities on Instagram and Facebook as Meta explores new possibilities amid industry shifts.


A leadership shake-up in Reality Labs was reported, with Meta reevaluating its focus on core business areas under new leadership.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Maximizing Efficiency: Design Tips from Side Job Experts for Success

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In today’s world, side jobs have become a central part of many people’s lives. Nearly 50% of British individuals are engaging in side hustles. Nine out of 10 individuals under the age of 34 who have a side hustle plan to turn it into a full-time business. Balancing a side hustle along with a full-time job can be challenging, even for the most skilled multitaskers. Here are some tips for managing multiple gigs without disrupting your work environment.

Separate and Support Each Other
View your day job as a source of motivation and insight rather than a hindrance to your side hustle. This approach can make your life more coherent and less draining.

Surprisingly, finding inspiration in both roles can help you focus better on each gig.

Reshmi Bennett, an award-winning chef from Surrey, runs a bakery called Anges de Sucre alongside publishing a recipe book for children to promote creativity in the kitchen. Bennett’s bakery has been thriving since its establishment in 2011, and she successfully manages both ventures, especially during the pandemic. Bennett shared, “During the lockdown, I had some free time, so I started writing a novel and selling it on Amazon.”

“Balancing the two roles can be challenging, so I try to organize my schedule as efficiently as possible. When I’m at my day job, I focus on fulfilling bakery orders and meeting customer needs. I pour all my energy into this. I also try to apply the skills and experiences I gain at the bakery, like recipe testing, to my side hustle. This way, I can continue managing both roles at a realistic pace.”

Work Smarter
Emma Thomson, hailing from Romford, Essex, founded a jewelry business while working as a medical secretary for the NHS. Thomson juggled both roles during her lunch breaks for six years before transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship. She shared, “I unintentionally started this business. It began as a coping mechanism for my anxiety and depression, and gradually, people started asking where they could purchase my jewelry.”

jeweler emma thomson

Her top advice? “Optimize the time you spend in your main job as much as possible. I worked 10 hours a day for 3 days straight at my NHS job instead of the standard 8-hour day. Although it was long, I had four full days to focus on my business and take a day off if needed. This significantly reduced fatigue and stress. Additionally, scheduling and automating social media content proved to be beneficial, as I didn’t have to personally oversee much of my social media presence.”

Enhance Your Visual Identity
Develop a strong visual identity for both your day job and side hustle. Whether presenting internally to your team or creating social media content for your side gig, leveraging your design skills and adaptability can strengthen your personal brand. Improved design skills can benefit you in both roles and help you excel at both. Consider using apps like Adobe Express for creating high-quality content effortlessly.

Candace Mason runs an herbal tea business for women.

Outsource Whenever Possible
Successfully managing a family bus and coach company alongside a women’s herbal tea business requires a diverse set of skills. Candace Mason from Tring, Hertfordshire, emphasizes the importance of good organization. She runs two very distinct and separate businesses, managing her life effectively using online tools like Trello for project management. Having a streamlined calendar and booking system is crucial for efficient operation. Mason acknowledges the value of outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping, recognizing the importance of accepting that one person cannot do everything.

Stick to Your Schedule Strictly
Leanne Alston of Bradford, West Yorkshire, owns a private hotel while working full-time as a mental health team manager in the NHS. Alston attributes her success to strict scheduling in all areas of her life. “I create a weekly schedule, detailing my 9-to-5 job requirements and sleep routine. I then allocate time for meeting private clients, organizing social media, exercising, socializing, and personal projects. Some days require specific planning, while others are more relaxed, but having a written schedule eliminates mental clutter and provides visual clarity. Prioritizing health is crucial; neither your day job nor side hustle can thrive if your well-being is neglected.”

Psychotherapist Leanne Alston

“I meticulously plan my week to accommodate my 9-to-5 responsibilities, sleep, and personal activities, including meetings with clients, social media management, exercise, and socializing. Some days require specific planning, while others are more relaxed. Having everything written down eliminates mental clutter and provides visual clarity, making it easier to follow through on tasks. One important suggestion is to prioritize your health, as neither your day job nor side project will thrive if your well-being is neglected.”

Stay True to Yourself
We often hear about bringing our “authentic selves” to work. While the wisdom of this approach is debatable, aligning your personal and professional personas can simplify your life, especially if you have a side hustle. This consistency reduces the energy spent on adapting between roles and opens up opportunities for cross-pollination.

Charlotte Walsh started a reusable straw business

Try Time Chunking
Charlotte Walsh, an engineer from North Yorkshire, founded a silicone straw company to address the challenge of finding high-quality, reusable straws for her children. Walsh shared, “I launched the business in 2019 and now work full-time, handling everything from order dispatch to securing compliance for high street retail partners. By segmenting tasks into chunks through time chunking, you can prioritize urgent tasks and make significant daily progress without distractions from emails or new requests.”

Be Punctual
Lastly, never compromise on punctuality, even if you’re working late nights. Losing your professionalism can lead to a loss of trust, which may require even more time and effort to regain.

Click here to learn more about Adobe Express.

Source: www.theguardian.com

What your body appears like under an exceptionally strong magnifying tool

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Imagine being able to visualize every aspect of our bodies, from our genes to the smallest cells that make up our organs. Scientists are now working on creating a comprehensive directory known as the Human Cell Atlas.

Think of it as a GPS for cells in the body, containing information on how cells evolve over time. This groundbreaking study, spanning 40 research papers, could potentially unravel major scientific mysteries such as bone formation, arthritis, and Crohn’s disease development.

Researchers have already gathered data on over 100 million cells from more than 10,000 individuals, with hopes of incorporating this information in the final atlas, which could potentially include billions of cells.

Professor Sarah Teichmann, the founding co-chair of the Human Cell Atlas and a researcher at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, stated, “This new level of insight into specific genes, mechanisms, and cell types within tissues lays the foundation for more accurate diagnosis, innovative drug discovery, and advanced regenerative medicine approaches.”

One significant milestone in the project focuses on the digestive system. By compiling data from 1.6 million cells, researchers have created an intricate map of intestinal cells, detailing their types, locations, and interactions within the body – the most detailed map of its kind.

Utilizing sophisticated techniques such as computer analysis and artificial intelligence (AI), researchers isolated individual cells and identified them, demonstrating the potential for AI in disease diagnosis.

A new approach similar to a “reverse image search” is being employed by researchers to aid in disease diagnosis, potentially revolutionizing the field.

Two striking images from the study stand out:

Image credit: Nathan Richoz University of Cambridge

This captivating image displays a magnified view of lung tissue, shedding light on the body’s response to COVID-19.

Image credits: Grace Burgin, Noga Rogel, Moshe Biton, Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute

While it may resemble an artistic beach scene, this image actually depicts the intricate structures of the small intestine, a crucial organ in the digestive process.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

At room temperature, metal-free organic molecules demonstrate strong phosphorescence

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A metal-free organic 3-bromo-2-thienyl diketone exhibits fast and efficient room-temperature phosphorescence with high color purity under a variety of conditions, according to a new study led by chemists at Osaka University.

Artist's impression of fast phosphorescence. A beam of blue light enters the molecule, producing a thick yellow pillar, illustrating the acceleration of phosphorescence due to the mixing of singlet states. Image courtesy of YAP Co Ltd.

“Phosphorescence is a valuable optical feature used in applications such as OLEDs and cancer diagnostics,” said chemist Yosuke Tani of Osaka University and his colleagues.

“Until now, achieving highly efficient phosphorescence without using rare metals such as iridium or platinum has been a major challenge.”

“Phosphorescence, which occurs when a molecule goes from a high-energy state to a low-energy state, often competes with non-radiative processes where the molecule loses energy as heat,” the researchers added.

“This competition can slow down phosphorescence and make it less efficient.”

“Previous studies have shown that incorporating certain structural elements into organic molecules could make them phosphoresce faster, but these efforts have not matched the speed and efficiency of rare-metal-based materials.”

“Our breakthrough with thienyl diketones represents a major advance in this field.”

Dr. Tani and his co-authors were able to observe efficient narrowband room-temperature phosphorescence from 3-bromo-2-thienyl diketone in solution, amorphous polymer matrices, and crystalline solids.

“We discovered these molecules by chance and initially didn't understand why they performed so well,” Dr. Tani said.

“But as the research progressed, the pieces started to come together and we began to understand more.”

“Our work has led to a clearer understanding of the mechanisms behind the molecule's performance than any other organic phosphorescent material to date.”

“Still, we believe there is much more to explore and are excited about the potential applications.”

“This work provides new design guidelines for developing rare-metal-free organic phosphorescent materials, which have the potential to surpass and replace these materials in a variety of applications,” the authors conclude.

“The results of this research are expected to lead to major advances in areas such as OLEDs, lighting and medical diagnostics.”

This discovery paper In the journal Chemical Sciences.

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Yosuke Tani othersFast and efficient narrowband room-temperature phosphorescence from metal-free 1,2-diketones: rational design and mechanism. Chemical SciencesPublished online June 3, 2024; doi: 10.1039/D4SC02841D

Source: www.sci.news

Strong winds have the power to generate massive waves, scientists reveal

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A rogue wave is a single swell that is much higher than nearby waves and can cause damage to ships and coastal infrastructure. Ocean waves are one of the most powerful natural forces on Earth, and they could become even more powerful as global trends suggest ocean winds will blow even stronger with climate change. there is. Scientists at the University of Melbourne have discovered in a new study that rogue waves are generated by strong winds and unpredictable wave patterns, confirming an idea previously only proven in the lab.

Toffoli other.We report direct observations of surface waves from a stereo camera system and simultaneous measurements of wind speed during an expedition across the Southern Ocean during the Antarctic winter aboard a South African icebreaker. SA Agulhas II. Image credit: Alessandro Toffoli.

“Rogue waves are huge, twice as tall as nearby waves, and appear out of nowhere,” said University of Melbourne’s Professor Alessandro Toffoli, lead author of the study.

Using cutting-edge technology and embarking on an expedition to one of the most unstable ocean regions on Earth, Professor Toffoli and colleagues have introduced a new technique for 3D imaging of ocean waves.

Operating a stereo camera on a South African icebreaker SA Agulhas II During their 2017 Antarctic expedition, they captured valuable insights into the behavior of waves in this remote region.

Their method, which mimics human vision through continuous imaging, allowed researchers to reconstruct the wavy ocean surface in three dimensions, providing unprecedented clarity into ocean wave dynamics. Ta.

The first scientific measurement of a rogue wave was the 25.6 m Draupner wave recorded in the North Sea in 1995. Since the beginning of the 21st century, 16 cases of suspected rogue waves have been reported to him.

“Scientists have long theorized that Antarctica’s rough seas and fierce winds can cause large waves to ‘self-amplify’, resulting in rogue wave frequencies. “However, this has not yet been tested underwater,” Professor Toffoli said.

The team’s observations, using numerical and laboratory studies that suggested the role of wind in the formation of rogue waves, provided validation of these theories in a real marine environment.

“Our observations show that unique sea conditions with rough waves occur during the ‘young’ stage of the waves, when they are most susceptible to wind effects. This suggests that wind parameters are the missing link,” Professor Toffoli said.

“Wind creates a chaotic situation where waves of different dimensions and directions coexist.”

“The wind causes young waves to grow higher, longer and faster.”

“During this self-amplification, waves grow disproportionately at the expense of neighboring waves.”

“We show that young waves are showing signs of self-amplification and are likely to be wind-driven.”

“Once every six hours, we recorded waves that were twice as high as nearby waves.”

“This reflects laboratory models. The theory is that sea conditions are more likely to self-amplify, creating more rogue waves.”

“In contrast, no rough waves were detected in mature oceans that are not influenced by winds.”

The authors highlight the critical importance of integrating wind dynamics into predictive models for rough sea prediction.

“This shows that scientists need to take wind into account thoroughly when developing tools to predict rogue waves,” Professor Toffoli said.

of findings It was published in the magazine physical review letter.

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A. Toffoli other. 2024. Observation of the bad waters of the Southern Ocean. Physics.pastor rhett 132 (15): 154101; doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.154101

Source: www.sci.news

Increase in Stablecoin Supply Indicates Strong Capital Influx into Crypto Market – Blockchain News, Analysis, TV, Employment Opportunities

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Written by Enoch Muthembei

Over the past week, Bitcoin has experienced a bullish rally, topping the coveted $52,000 mark and recouping almost all the losses incurred since the FTX collapse. The milestone is crucial for an industry grappling with a prolonged bear market.

Consistent with Bitcoin’s upward trajectory, there has been a notable increase in the total market capitalization of major stablecoins, including: USDT, USDC, BUSDand Big. The market capitalization of these four stablecoin giants increased from $131.232 billion to $138.993 billion from February 13th to February 20th, indicating growing demand.

Stablecoins play a vital role as a bridge between fiat and crypto markets, making up the majority of crypto trading pairs and, as a result, becoming a major source of funding. market liquidity. The rise in market capitalization highlights the increasing adoption of stablecoins, solidifying their position as the preferred medium for engaging with cryptocurrencies.

Looking at the broader picture, we can see that the supply of the top four stablecoins has surged by 3.475% in the past 30 days. While a variety of factors may be contributing to this increase, it is primarily due to the overall market movement of assets into stablecoins, whether fiat or cryptocurrencies, in anticipation of future trading activity. It shows the trend. This suggests that the market is gearing up for a quick entry or exit from Bitcoin.

Supporting this trend is the notable rise in the stablecoin supply rate (SSR). SSR is a key metric that measures stablecoin supply relative to Bitcoin’s market capitalization, indicating the depth of market liquidity and potential purchasing power. A rise in SSR means a larger proportion of stablecoins compared to Bitcoin, and if these stablecoins are converted to Bitcoin, this could impact Bitcoin price growth.

SSR that exceeds the top bollinger bands This represents an unusual surge in potential purchasing power in February 2024. This suggests that investors may be poised to migrate to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in line with the Bitcoin price increase observed since January 2024.

The soaring price of Bitcoin, combined with the expansion in market capitalization and supply of major stablecoins, signals a significant influx of capital into the crypto market. For stablecoins, these trends highlight their important role in the ecosystem, serving not only as a safe haven during times of volatility, but also as an important means of putting money into Bitcoin. .

The trends observed last week highlight the interconnectedness of the stablecoin market and Bitcoin and highlight how fluctuations in stablecoin supply and market capitalization act as indicators of impending market activity. I am.

Source: the-blockchain.com

Physicists’ Discovery Unveils Distribution of Strong Forces Within Protons

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The physics of proton gravitational form factors and their understanding in quantum chromodynamics have advanced significantly over the past two decades through both theory and experiment.a new paper inside modern physics review We provide an overview of this progress, highlighting the physical insights revealed by studies of the gravitational form factor and reviewing its interpretation in terms of the mechanical properties of protons.

A 2D representation of the quark contribution to the force distribution within the proton as a function of distance from the proton center. Light gray shading and long arrows indicate areas of stronger force, while dark gray shading and short arrows indicate areas of weaker force. Left panel: Normal force as a function of distance from center. The arrows change size and always point radially outward. Right panel: tangential force as a function of distance from center. The force changes direction and magnitude as indicated by the direction and length of the arrow. The sign of the force changes around 0.4 fm from the proton center. Image credit: Burkert other., doi: 10.1103/RevModPhys.95.041002.

“This measurement reveals insight into the environment experienced by the proton's components,” said Volker Burkert, principal investigator at the Jefferson Institute.

“A proton is made up of three quarks held together by a strong force.”

“At its peak, this amounts to more than four tons of force that would have to be applied to the quark to pull it out of the proton.”

“Of course, it is not possible in nature to separate just one quark from a proton because quarks have a property called color.”

“Protons have three colors mixed with quarks, and appear colorless from the outside. This is a requirement for them to exist in the universe.”

“When you try to extract a colored quark from a proton, the energy you invested in separating the quarks is used to create a meson, a pair of colorless quark and antiquark, leaving behind a colorless proton (or neutron).”

“In other words, the number four tons represents the strength of the force inherent in protons.”

The result is only the second of the mechanical properties of the protons to be measured.

Mechanical properties of protons include internal pressure (measured in 2018), mass distribution (physical size), angular momentum, and shear stress (shown here).

This result was made possible by predictions from half a century ago and data from 20 years ago.

In the mid-1960s, nuclear physicists realized that if they could observe how gravity interacted with subatomic particles like protons, such experiments could directly reveal the mechanical properties of protons. It was theorized that

“But at the time, we had no choice. For example, if you compare gravity to electromagnetic forces, there's a difference of 39 orders of magnitude. So it's pretty hopeless, right?” said Latifa El-Adhriri, a staff scientist at the Jefferson Institute. .

This data comes from experiments conducted at the Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) at the Jefferson Research Institute.

A typical CEBAF experiment involves a high-energy electron interacting with another particle by exchanging a packet of energy and a unit of angular momentum called a virtual photon with the particle. The energy of an electron determines which particles it interacts with in this way and how it reacts.

In the experiment, a high-energy beam of electrons interacting with protons inside a target of liquefied hydrogen gas exerted a much greater force on the protons than the four tons needed to pull out the quark/antiquark pair.

“We have developed a program to study deep virtual Compton scattering,” said Dr. El-Adrili.

“This is where electrons exchange virtual photons with protons.”

“And in the final state, the proton stays the same but recoils, and you actually produce one very high-energy photon, and you also get a scattered electron.”

“At the time we acquired the data, we did not know that beyond the intended 3D imaging with these data, we were also collecting the data needed to access the mechanical properties of the protons.”

“It turns out that this particular process, the highly virtual Compton scattering, may be related to how gravity interacts with matter.”

“A general version of this relationship is stated in Einstein's 1973 textbook on general relativity.gravityWritten by Charles W. Meisner, Kip S. Thorne, and John Archibald Wheeler. ”

“In it, they say, “A massless spin 2 field would give rise to a force indistinguishable from gravity, because a massless spin 2 field would couple with a stress-energy tensor in the same way as a gravitational interaction.'' It is written as 'It is from.'.'.

“Thirty years later, theorist Maxim Polyakov continued this idea and established a theoretical foundation linking deep virtual Compton scattering processes and gravitational interactions.”

“This theoretical breakthrough establishes a relationship between measurements of deep virtual Compton scattering and the gravitational shape factor.”

“And we were able to take advantage of that for the first time and bring out the pressure that we gave during the game.” Nature A paper was published in 2018 and now normal and shear forces are being studied,” Dr. Burkert said.

“A more detailed explanation of the relationship between deep virtual Compton scattering processes and gravitational interactions is provided in a new paper describing the first results obtained from this study.”

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V.D. Burkert other. 2023. Colloquium: Gravitational shape factor of protons. Rev.Mod. Physics 95(4):041002; doi: 10.1103/RevModPhys.95.041002

Source: www.sci.news

How a 2,450-Day Snapchat Streak Has Kept Our Friendships Strong Through Heartbreak, Joy, and COVID-19

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I
It's hard to say when it became a daily habit. There were stops and starts. Days when I couldn't think of anything. But little by little, it became non-negotiable. Wake up. Please check the time. Send a snap. Every day for 2,450 consecutive days. I sent fleeting moments spanning almost seven years to a friend on the other side of the world.


Sarah has seen my sleepy eyes and the view of my dresser from my bed more than anyone else on earth. I don't know why I decided my Snapchat streak would be most important, but it became a priority in April 2017, almost four years after I downloaded the app and started using it haphazardly.

We are currently experiencing one of the longest snap streaks in the history of the app. Snapchat doesn't make that information public, so we don't know where they are on the ladder, but they recently ranked among the top 10 sites that collect that data.


Guardian Australia political blogger Amy Lemeikis and her friend Sarah are on a road trip together.
Photo: Amy Lemeikis

Sarah and I met while teaching English in Korea. An American and an Australian, they were excited to be so far away from home. We forged a friendship over BBC's Pride and Prejudice and Korean sheet masks. Eventually, we both returned to real life, me in journalism, she in grad school, but we continued to communicate sporadically. Days, then weeks, then months passed before we spoke.

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She was severely affected by the coronavirus. She kept on ringing until she stood up and her words were breathtaking. She found medical help for her and I sent food and Amazon care packages to her home. This is America's online artery that connects us across closed borders. Her recovery from coronavirus was long and scary, and I woke up in a panic, but it wasn't until I saw her open the app that I felt relieved and went back to sleep.

When I recently asked her what this streak meant to her, she said, “Tangible proof that someone special is thinking of you at least once a day, even on your worst day.” “It's very reassuring to have that,” she said, and it's true. During some particularly difficult moments, that was the only voice I heard outside of my head.

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Source: www.theguardian.com

The Threat of Cool Star’s Strong Winds to Exoplanets

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Artist’s illustration of a stellar planetary system. You can clearly see the stellar wind orbiting the star and its effect on the planet’s atmosphere.Credit: AIP/ K. Riebe/ J. Fohlmeister, editor

A groundbreaking study reveals that cold stars with strong magnetic fields generate powerful stellar winds, providing important information for assessing the habitability of exoplanetary systems.

A study led by scientists at the Potsdam Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics (AIP) uses cutting-edge numerical simulations to systematically characterize the properties of stellar winds in a sample of cold stars for the first time. Ta. They found that stars with stronger magnetic fields generate stronger winds. These winds create unfavorable conditions for the survival of planetary atmospheres, thus affecting the habitability of these systems.

Cool star classification

The Sun is one of the most abundant stars in the universe, known as “cool stars.” These stars are divided into four categories (F-type, G-type, K-type, and M-type) that differ in size, temperature, and brightness. The Sun is a fairly average star and belongs to category G. Stars that are brighter and larger than the Sun belong to category F, while K stars are slightly smaller and cooler than the Sun. The smallest and faintest star is the M star, also known as a “red dwarf” because of the color in which it emits most of its light.

Solar wind and its effects

Satellite observations have revealed that, apart from light, the sun continuously emits a stream of particles known as the solar wind. These winds travel through interplanetary space and interact with the planets of our solar system, including Earth. The beautiful displays of the Northern Lights near the North and South Poles are actually produced by this interaction. But these winds can also be harmful, as they can erode Earth’s stable atmosphere. Mars.

We know a lot about the solar wind, thanks in part to missions like Solar Orbiter, but the same isn’t true for other cool stars. The problem is that we can’t see these stellar winds directly, so we’re limited to studying their effects on the thin gas that fills the cavities between stars in galaxies. However, this approach has some limitations and can only be applied to a small number of stars. This has encouraged the use of computer simulations and models to predict various properties of stellar winds without the need for astronomer observations.

Pioneering research on the properties of stellar winds

In this regard, in collaboration with Cecilia Garaffo of the Harvard University Center for Astrophysics, doctoral student Judy Chevely of AIP’s Stellar Physics and Exoplanet Division, and scientist Julián D. Alvarado Gomez Dr. Katja Poppenhager, head of the department, assisted. The Smithsonian Institution conducted the first systematic study of the expected stellar wind properties for F, G, K, and M stars.

To this end, they performed numerical simulations using one of the most sophisticated models currently available, driven by the observed large-scale magnetic field distributions of 21 well-observed stars. I used it. The simulations were performed at the AIP and Leibniz-Rechenzentrum (LRZ) supercomputing facilities.

The research team investigated how star properties such as gravity, magnetic field strength, and rotation period affect the properties of the wind in terms of velocity and density. The results include a comprehensive characterization of stellar wind properties across spectral types and, in particular, challenge previous assumptions about stellar wind speeds when estimating associated mass loss rates from observations. This indicates that it needs to be reconsidered.

In addition, the simulations can predict the expected size of the Alfvén surface, the boundary between the stellar corona and the stellar wind. This information is the basis for determining whether planetary systems are affected by strong magnetic star-planet interactions. This interaction can occur when a planet’s orbit enters or is completely embedded in the Alfvén surface of its host star.

Impact on planetary systems

Their findings show that stars with magnetic fields larger than the Sun have faster winds. In some cases, stellar wind speeds can be up to five times faster than the average solar wind speed (typically 450 km/s). The study revealed how strong these stars’ winds are in their so-called “habitable zone,” defined as the orbital distance at which a rocky exoplanet can maintain liquid water on its surface and provide an Earth-like atmospheric pressure. It was evaluated as being strong. They found milder conditions around F- and G-type stars, comparable to those experienced by Earth around the G-type Sun, and increasingly harsh wind environments around K- and M-type stars. discovered. Such intense stellar winds have a strong impact on any atmosphere a planet might have.

Broader implications for exoplanet research

This phenomenon is well documented in heliophysics between rocky planets and the Sun, but not in exoplanetary systems. This requires estimates of stellar winds to assess processes similar to those seen between the solar wind and planetary atmospheres. This study is important from the perspective of habitability, as no information on stellar winds has been known for main-sequence stars F to M until now.

Although the study presented in this paper was performed on 21 stars, the results are general enough to apply to other cool main sequence stars. This study paves the way for future studies of stellar wind observations and their effects on planetary atmosphere erosion.

References: Judy J Chebly, Julián D Alvarado-Gómez, Katja Poppenhäger, and Cecilia Garraffo, “Quantifying the wind properties of cool main-sequence stars,” July 19, 2023. Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.
DOI: 10.1093/mnras/stad2100

Source: scitechdaily.com

Ford reduces production targets for electric F-150 Lightning in response to strong demand

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Ford plans to cut production of all-electric pickup trucks in 2024 to meet consumer demand.

Ford executives said in October on a third-quarter earnings call that they plan to “adjust” all-electric vehicle production and defer about $12 billion in investments as demand for higher-priced premium electric vehicles slows. suggested.

The automaker did not explicitly mention the Lightning in its earnings call, instead pointing to other examples such as production cuts for the Mustang Mach-E and the decision to postpone a second battery plant in Kentucky.

Note to supplier. viewed, First reported by Automotive Newsplans to produce an average of about 1,600 Lightning trucks per week starting in January at its Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan. Ford had planned annual production capacity for the Lightning at 150,000 units per year, or approximately 3,200 units per week. This means that the production target for 2024 will be halved.

A Ford spokeswoman did not confirm the memo. A spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that the company “continues to align Lightning production with customer demand.”

The move is a reversal from January 2022, when Ford was elated with 200,000 truck reservations and announced it would nearly double production capacity to 150,000 a year by mid-2023 in response to customer demand. be. The company idled its Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Michigan in early 2023 to perform factory upgrades to accommodate new production capacity.

Despite these improvements, demand for EVs was softening across the industry. EV sales in the U.S. continue to grow, at a pace of over 1 million units per year, a 50% increase over the previous year. Still, that growth has lagged behind the ambitious plans of major automakers, causing many to curb investment, delay factory upgrades and new construction, and cut production capacity.

Source: techcrunch.com

Despite strong performance of Dungeons & Dragons, Hasbro to cut 1,100 jobs

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According to one source, Hasbro plans to lay off 1,100 employees. SEC filing. Hasbro, the company behind series such as “Dungeons & Dragons” and “Transformers,” has already laid off employees. 800 employees In January. Some employees will learn the fate of their jobs on Tuesday, while others will be made redundant over the next year. Hasbro told shareholders it wants to cut costs by about $350 million to $400 million by 2025.

Hasbro CEO Chris Cox wrote: Memo to employee — shared in an SEC filing — says he will focus the company’s attention on licensing opportunities, entertainment expansion and “freebies.”[ing] Fund your own content to drive new brand development. He blamed the company’s losses on vague “market headwinds.”

Hasbro’s overall revenue was down 10% year over year. However, Hasbro owns Wizards of the Coast (WoTC), the company that produces Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and Magic the Gathering. 1 billion dollars Every year. The division of the company that operates WoTC and digital games has seen an increase in revenue 40% compared to previous year Operating income was $423.6 million, and operating income was $203.4 million. Despite this significant growth, Hasbro has struggled overall. So Cox seems to be refocusing Hasbro’s efforts on what’s actually benefiting the company.

D&D has become increasingly popular over the past few years. This is largely thanks to the creators of third-party content such as Critical Role and Dimension 20, in which the ensemble cast plays her D&D for the entertainment of viewers. The series also made headlines this year with Baldur’s Gate III, a hugely successful Hollywood movie and video game licensed from the Dungeons & Dragons IP.Just last week, Baldur’s Gate won game of the year At the Game Awards.

Hasbro is at a strange crossroads. Even though the toy business is in decline, he suddenly has an unexpected cash cow in Wizards of the Coast, which he acquired 24 years ago.

“The D&D strategy is a broad four-quadrant strategy, and we have this strong brand with similar recognition, such as ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Harry Potter,'” Cox said. He said it on a program. Call to investors Last December, we received some insight into the company’s plans. But what makes Dungeons & Dragons (a game system where groups of players develop their own plots and characters) something like Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings, where all fans know the same characters and stories? Hasbro’s attempts to change are becoming increasingly painful.The movie “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor of Thieves” received positive reviews when it was released in March, but ultimately poor performance At the ticket office.

“To position Hasbro for growth, we must first ensure our fundamentals are strong and profitable,” Cox wrote in a company memo. “To do that, we need to modernize and become even leaner.”

Source: techcrunch.com