If your child is fascinated with spies, you’re in luck – there are many spy toy sets available. A love for secret agents indicates that your child is inquisitive and starting to show interest in exploration and technology. There are various toy sets on the market that can aid in developing these skills while providing entertainment and nurturing imagination.
Here are some recommended spy toys for curious kids.
The best spy toys and gear for inquisitive kids
KidzLabs Spy Science Secret Message Kit
This comprehensive toy kit from 4M is packed with everything needed to send secret messages. Kids can hone their spy skills with various items included, such as an invisible message writer, a Morse code torch, and materials to create a 20-page spy journal.
The kit also includes a developer, stick code, and message capsule for discovering secret messages, while the cipher wheel and secret code library aid in learning essential skills. A Super Spy ID card is also part of the package for kids to enjoy. It’s an interactive and educational way for kids to engage in a new interest.
Long Range LCD Screen Walkie Talkie
No spy kit is complete without communication devices. Walkie-talkies are ideal for accompanying your child on their adventures. They allow you to stay connected as they uncover secrets and even role-play a spy headquarters.
Toy Zee walkie talkies are designed with kids in mind, featuring a simple and lightweight design suitable for little hands. With a VOX feature for hands-free calling, these walkie talkies have 9 main channels for private communication, reducing the risk of eavesdropping by others on the same channel.
Thames & Cosmos Master Detective Toolkit
BrightMinds kids’ toys aim to make learning fun and accessible, and this kit from Thames & Kosmos introduces children to science and lab work. The detective toolkit includes tools and documentation for learning about crime scene investigation and analyzing evidence like fingerprints, footprints, and tire tracks.
SpyX MicroSpy Gear Set
This spy gear kit encourages kids to explore their surroundings. It includes a utility belt with 4 micro tools – a spy light, invisible ink pen, motion alarm, and micro listener – to elevate kids’ imaginations. Prepare to venture into the outside world with your child using their new gear.
LOGIBLOCS Secret Recorder Kit
The Secret Recorder kit from LOGIBLOCS helps children explore while developing STEM skills. This gadget allows kids to build 7 innovative systems, featuring a voice recorder, message box, light sensor, Morse code, and more to kickstart their tech projects.
A to Z 9300 Spy Set
This A to Z secret mission set brings kids as close as possible to being real-life spies. They can observe their family using spy glasses, binoculars, and periscopes while sending secret messages using a special transmitter. Suitable for children aged 5 and above.
Kasachoy Night Vision Goggles
These spy goggles feature two pop-out LED lights, allowing kids to see in the dark up to 25 feet away. The battery-powered lights emit a cool blue glow, providing a realistic night vision experience and igniting your child’s imagination.
When it comes to choosing gifts for teenagers, gift cards are often the go-to option. With new technology constantly emerging, it can be challenging to find products that are both worth buying and will be loved by your teen.
Our list features a variety of fantastic tech gifts for teenagers, from cutting-edge gadgets for amazing selfies to popular items that can transform a regular bedroom into the ultimate teen hideaway. These products cater to every budget and level of tech knowledge – you don’t have to be a tech expert to enjoy these innovative devices.
These tech gifts are truly inspiring.
If you know a teenager who’s into science, don’t miss out on these amazing science gifts for teens.
Best Tech Gifts for Teens
TP-Link Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Multi-Color Light Strip
Adding a color-changing LED light strip can instantly elevate a dull bedroom into a vibrant, multi-colored space. Perfect for adding a touch of excitement to a sleepover, gaming session, or just a relaxing night at home. This LED light strip may be one of the best tech gifts for teenagers.
Philips Hue Series Tapo is a well-known name in smart LED strips, and this version of Tapo is a great budget-friendly choice.
Setting up is easy – simply stick the strips on shelves, screens, or other bedroom furniture. The strips are five meters long and can be cut to any desired size. Use the Tapo app to select preset lighting moods, effects, and timers to automatically control the multicolored LEDs. It works over standard home Wi-Fi and is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
For more gift ideas, check out our guide to the best sci-fi games.
Latest Philips Hue Lightstrip deals:
Tapo Light Strip Latest Deals:
Insta360 X3
At first glance, this small gadget may seem expensive, but its impressive features speak for themselves.
The Insta360 X3 features a 5.7K 360° camera with useful functions like image stabilization, horizon lock, and HDR mode. With the extended selfie stick, the camera intelligently edits your footage to provide a unique third-person perspective, almost like having your personal videographer.
Don’t miss out on the best instant cameras for more photo gift ideas.
While the camera captures the action in 360°, you have the freedom to choose the best angle for your video.
Additional features include:
8K quality 360° time lapse video
Automatically saves 15 or 30 seconds of footage before hitting the shutter button
Convenient automated editing and live 360° streaming allow viewers to see from every angle
Focus on a single person, animal, or moving object and keep it centered in the frame.
Waterproof up to 10m, extendable to 50m with a diving case (sold separately)
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Crosley Voyager Portable Turntable
A portable record player like the Crosley Voyager makes a fun and unique gift for teenagers. Music enthusiasts will appreciate having a stylish turntable in their room.
This turntable’s portability is a standout feature – easily pack it up and take your music with you to parties, vacations, and other gatherings.
Despite its vintage look, the turntable is equipped with modern features: Built-in stereo speakers and Bluetooth for streaming music from your phone, plus a headphone jack for private listening. The turntable also offers three speed settings for playing traditional records.
The Crosley Voyager is an affordable turntable option. If you’re unsure about it, explore our top record players currently available.
While you’re here, check out the best sunrise alarm clocks too.
Mini projector
A portable projector is a must-have for sleepovers or movie nights at home. Whether your teen has a TV in their room or not, this gadget will enhance their viewing experience with a projection size of up to 210 inches.
This is also perfect for PlayStation and Xbox enthusiasts.
While projectors can be pricey, this one offers a balance of affordability and quality. Highly rated by customers, it supports Full HD with 7500 lumens and allows you to choose your preferred projection size from 35 inches to 210 inches, from a distance of 3.7 feet from the wall.
Featuring built-in Hi-Fi speakers, it also has an audio-out port for connecting external speakers or headphones. Once set up, you can connect your phone, tablet, laptop, or gaming console to enjoy TV shows, movies, and photos (some devices may require an HDMI cable).
Explore our guide for the best projectors for your home for more options.
Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
There are few speakers that deliver both style and sound quality, but the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 manages to do just that. With its unique “unicorn” appearance, this speaker stands out from the crowd. It also boasts impressive technical specifications.
The Boom 3 is fully waterproof, allowing you to play music underwater for 30 minutes, and it floats to the surface when released, making pool parties even more enjoyable. Moreover, if your recipient or their friends own other Ultimate Ears speakers, you can link up to 150 of them to synchronize music in one location.
This speaker delivers 360° sound and is made with a highly elastic material used in motorcycle jackets and firefighting gear. Ultimate Ears has conducted over 25 durability tests, ensuring it can withstand even the most energetic users.
The rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of playtime on a full charge. Power Up Dock for a seamless charging experience. For speaker options, explore our selection of portable speakers, shower speakers, or noise-canceling headphones.
Auraglow LED USB Wall or Tabletop Word Clock
Looking for a great gift under £25? Consider this unique clock from Auraglow. Instead of traditional numbers, this clock displays the time in 5-minute intervals. LEDs light up the relevant letters on a black panel to indicate the time.
The clock comes with a USB cable for connecting to various power sources, and you can add an adapter for more flexibility. It can be wall-mounted with a hanging slot or propped up on a desk or shelf thanks to its flat base.
If black isn’t your style, the clock is also available in copper. Explore our guides for the best wireless phone chargers, power banks, portable chargers, and charging stations for more useful tech ideas.
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Apexel 10-in-1 Cell Phone Camera Lens Kit
For Instagrammers, photographers, or selfie enthusiasts, a smartphone lens attachment is an ideal choice if you want to enhance your phone’s camera capabilities without investing in a new camera. This set, with 10 different lens attachments stored in a convenient pouch, is compatible with most smartphones and tablets, including iPhone, Samsung, Huawei, and Sony models.
The kit includes macro, wide-angle, and telephoto lenses, along with fun accessories like a fisheye lens, a star filter, a kaleidoscope attachment, and even a polarizing filter to reduce glare and reflections for sunny days.
Despite the focus on modern technology like virtual reality and artificial intelligence, it’s important not to overlook the simple joy of traditional entertainment. Remote-controlled helicopters, a classic favorite, now come with a range of new features to enhance the experience.
If you’re in the market for a remote control helicopter, check out our list of top models below. We’ve curated this list based on extensive research and user reviews to cater to every budget.
What to Consider When Buying an RC Helicopter?
With various helicopter options available, it’s crucial to think about these aspects before making a purchase:
Flight Stability is key, so look for helicopters equipped with a gyroscope or stabilization system.
Consider the range of the remote control, especially for outdoor flights, and the battery life to determine how long you can fly before recharging.
Easy access to replacement parts is essential in the event of a crash, which can happen while you’re still getting used to the helicopter.
Top RC Helicopter Models
Blade Nano RC Helicopter S3 RTF
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The Blade Nano S3-RTF is designed for indoor flying, featuring a lightweight yet durable carbon fiber frame and high-performance rotor blades for stable and agile flight.
Equipped with a six-axis stabilisation system and coreless motors, this helicopter offers power and versatility. It also includes a 2.4GHz DSMX transmitter, rechargeable battery, and spare parts available online.
Syma X9 Flying Car
This innovative hybrid can switch between driving and flying modes. During flight, it can perform acrobatic flips using its four blades and features a six-axis gyroscope for smooth flying.
The aircraft also includes red and green LEDs for better visibility in the dark, with a flight time of approximately 6 minutes and USB charging. It has dual-speed modes, extra blades, and a driver for emergencies.
Syma 2nd Edition S107 S107G
The Syma S107G is a mini indoor helicopter with a metal frame, built-in gyro stabilization, and precise three-channel control. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, it offers up to eight minutes of flight time and a 10-meter remote control range.
Laka Walkera V450D03
The Walkera V450D03 is an intermediate RC helicopter with a brushless motor for stability and agility. Its six-axis gyro stabilization system allows for precise maneuvers, with a carbon fiber frame for durability.
This helicopter features a three-bladed main and tail rotor, long flight times up to 16 minutes, and a 100-meter range with its 2.4GHz transmitter.
This SkyRover helicopter features a unique voice command system for firing missiles and controlling the flight. With eight plastic missiles, wireless headsets, and dual blade control, it offers an immersive experience.
Syma TF1001
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This medium-sized Syma helicopter boasts drone-like design and stunt capabilities, including 3D flips and rolls. It features altitude hold technology, dual-speed modes, USB charging, and a durable metal alloy body.
I I am a person who believes in laughter. I work in the live arts. My primary medium is performance. In my art making I respect the heritage of border crossers, rebellious sexuality, witches and scoundrels. I am known as a sex clown and I am proud to make people laugh.
The best laughter comes from the absurd. It explodes and it spreads. It rumbles and it mutters. It invades rigid, rational, top-down thinking. It mysteriously appears even when you think you shouldn’t. My grandmother Betty used to tell my brother and me, “You’re laughing now, and soon you’ll be crying!” We need tears and hope. I wouldn’t laugh so much if it weren’t for something so serious.
1. Solid Gold Dancer Workout
I grew up watching my mom teach aerobics classes; it’s in my blood. As part of my artistic endeavors, I teach “Grumble Boogie,” a mentally stimulating dance class with a very nerdy ethos. I’ve even taught a 24-hour boogie.
I love this Solid Gold Dancer workout and I encourage you to give it a try, adapt it to your body, and move it. Just look at those outfits and those faces! (I’m obsessed with Darcel.) Dance and laugh, laugh and dance. Today is a healthy day. Thank you, body.
2. Linda Gibson, Judith Lucey, Denise Scott
In this flashback to the 2000 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, three legendary women in comedy show us how they prepare before taking to the stage: Judith Lucey, Denise Scott and the late Linda Gibson (my beloved auntie).
When I was about 15, my mom asked me, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” I said, “I want to act.” She said, “Whatever you do, have fun doing it.”“ Linda performs here despite having ovarian cancer. She’s funny, strong, defiant, and authentic. A golden gibbo.
3. Flutterby catches fire
A classic. I had this device as a kid too. It’s so pure to see your parent scream “Oh noooo” at the end. We must return to the cleansing fire one day. Fairies are real.
4. Take full control
Lockdown has taken hold of us. During the pandemic, I was living in the legendary Queer House in a stationary caravan in my backyard. In one of the windows where we could gather, a group I was part of called Working Bitches,I made the track with my gay uncle Paul Mac and Johnny Seymour (aka Stereogamus), and it’s so much fun to see the scenes in the music video of my friends, mentors and fellow artists dancing in my backyard.
5. Sacred David
This is the perfect video to refresh your mind. I’ve been lucky enough to see David Hoyle live on stage a few times in London. I love their stream of consciousness. Their charm. Their simmering, intense and welcoming intelligence. You can binge watch their other videos too. Please do! It’s just divine.
I’ve been very careful with my use of social media because I know it can feel like gambling. I feel how it changes my brain. But there are some things like Recess Therapy that give me real hope. Kids get it. Kids are having a great impact on my brain.
7. Dog in the water
You know who else gets it? Dogs. Dogs in wigs, dancing dogs, tricky dogs, laughing dogs – picking just one dog video was hard. I don’t anthropomorphize dogs, in fact, they bring me back to who I am and I’m grateful for that. Dog memes are constantly being passed around among my closest friends. Dogs are gods.
8. Young people dancing to Vogue
Just like the aerobics class, you can imitate their movements, invent your own movements, and enjoy the dramatic developments. Ecstatic dance helps us. The gaze in this girl’s eyes gives me energy.
9. Sammy Obeid
Some of the best laughter I’ve experienced has been produced by people who have overcome some of the most difficult times in their lives. Joy in the face of oppression is a powerful antidote to the pain of domination. Laughter can be a weapon. It can build solidarity and dismantle power.
RDust off your cream polo shirts and put away those Bruce Springsteen football chants whose lyrics have absolutely no relation to reality. Euro 2024 is over. Apart from the actual football (which is probably the best), this is a total first for the tournament. The level of interest in what actually happened on the pitch was easily rivalled by the debate over the pundit podcast commentary.
Well, maybe “expert commentary” isn’t the exact word to use, considering Gary Lineker made a lot of headlines when he said England’s match against Denmark was “terrible”. The rest is soccerBut it was worth noting that the podcast caused a furor (albeit one that relied on out-of-context quotes) culminating in the England captain being cornered at a press conference. There were articles trying to create a “Battle of the Garrys” pitting Lineker’s podcast against Gary Neville’s. There were also articles analysing how much money was being made from making nasty comments about England into people’s earpieces (imagine that! Being paid to be an honest pundit about bad football!).
This time, what was happening on the Euro 2024 podcast was more interesting than what was happening at Euro 2024. And as podcasts grow, the importance of shows about soccer tournaments will become more prominent. Maybe the next England manager’s goal is to build a team that’s more entertaining than what you can listen to on Spotify. It might be harder than they think…
In other podcast news, this week we have some truly outlandish stories, including members of ZZ Top impersonating another band for money and an extortion plot involving Charlie Sheen’s former bodyguard. We also have the second season of a fantastic show introducing us to a London life coach who convinced a number of women to betray their families, and inspiring people who tried to make a difference in the early days of the AIDS epidemic.
Alexi Duggins Deputy TV Editor
This week’s picks
(Real) zombies. Photo: Pictorial Press Ltd/Alamy
The truth about fake zombies Widely available, with weekly episodes
In 1969, St. Albans-based band The Zombies had a hit single in the US and began playing gigs around the country. But they’d split up years earlier, never known success, and never really toured. This show is both a fanboy homage and a deep dive into how two separate groups (including two members of ZZ Top) ruthlessly pretended to be The Zombies for money. It’s a vibrant slice of pop history set against the backdrop of a wild story. Alexi Duggins
The lawyer who defended Matthew McConaughey after he was caught playing the bongos naked at 2 a.m. An FBI informant. Charlie Sheen’s former bodyguard. There’s a wealthy Texan who was the target of blackmail for having an affair with an escort, and who ended up spiraling out of control and leaving two people dead. advertisement
Welcome to the dark side of healing. This podcast delves into the world of upper-class young women in London who all turn to the same “self-help coach.” But as Grace Hughes-Hallett discovers, a pattern soon emerged in which these women were turning their backs on their families. Holly Richardson
The second season of Dane Stewart’s podcast focuses on pioneers who tried to make a difference in the early days of the AIDS epidemic but were thwarted by prejudice. It’s fascinating to hear the story of Dr. Joseph Sonnabend, who cured the mysterious disease that was affecting gay men in New York at the time. Hannah Verdier
Super psychotherapist Esther Perel has compiled some of her best observations about love with beach listening in mind. She sits down with couples in therapy as they air their feelings about big questions about love, including dilemmas around polyamory, reproduction, and divorce. Perel’s thought-provoking questions will get you into the therapy room, and her wise asides will take you out of it. HV
There is a podcast
Kathy Burke, host of “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Wake.” Photo: Linda Nylind/The Guardian
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Weather apps were a staple of the first iPhone in 2007, and their popularity hasn’t waned since. Forecast accuracy and options may have improved dramatically, but forecast results often vary widely from app to app.
Most weather services start with roughly the same data, because weather agencies tend to use networks of instruments to record their observations and share them freely. But there are differences in how each agency analyzes and models the data to create forecasts, and the chaotic nature and complexity of the weather system means that small changes can create big fluctuations.
A good weather app might not be able to brighten up the currently lackluster British summer, but it can help you prepare for the drizzle and occasional sunshine. Here are our picks for the five best weather apps.
Most accurate: UK Met Office
Founded in 1854, the Met Office is one of the world’s oldest national weather services, and its app is the UK’s most popular. Its supercomputers analyze 215 billion weather observations every day, at a speed of 14 quadrillion calculations per second. The resulting models are then fine-tuned by meteorologists to create forecasts. The process seems to work well, as the app was named most accurate in the World Meteorological Organization’s Weather App Awards. In addition to hourly and daily forecasts, the app features long-range forecasts for up to a month, and maps showing rainfall and cloud cover for the past six hours and the next five days.
Best for simplicity: BBC Weather
The BBC Weather app used forecasts from the UK Met Office until 2018, but is now provided by DTN (formerly MeteoGroup). Its output is based on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMRWF) model as well as their own in-house model. Simple and basic, the app features a 14-day hourly forecast including temperature, wind, humidity, and visibility. The BBC recently revealed that they choose the most pessimistic outlook when choosing a symbol to represent the day’s forecast, a good choice for those looking for a pleasant surprise.
On July 11th, unexpected heavy rain hit Warsaw, Poland. Photo: Xinhua/Rex/Shutterstock
Best for extensive data: AccuWeather
US-based AccuWeather claims to have the most data in its forecasts, incorporating over 190 climate models, including those from the Meteorological Agency. The company’s app provides minute-by-minute forecasts and “feels like” temperatures that factor in sun intensity, wind, humidity, cloud cover, and elevation. It also offers a detailed air quality index and a range of other variables, including dew point temperature, indoor humidity, and cloud ceiling height. To use many features, such as hourly 10-day forecasts and longer-term 90-day forecasts, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid version.
For weather enthusiasts, FlowX lets you compare forecasts from different weather agencies, including ECMRWF, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Canadian Meteorological Centre. Select a forecast and it will be displayed on a map that you can scroll through in time. Choose whether to see precipitation, cloud cover, temperature, and even wave height and surface ozone levels, allowing you to make your own informed decision about the chances of rain or shine.
Best for aesthetics: Yr
The lesser known Yr app is a joint venture between the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation and the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, the latter of which was founded in 1866 and is almost as old as the Meteorological Office. It’s one of the easiest to use apps to scroll through a photorealistic sky to see what the sky will look like for the next 48 hours. It’s also perfect for off-grid adventures, as it provides accurate forecasts based on your coordinates, rather than searching for the weather in your nearest area like most apps do.
Peppa Pig Play-Along Podcast All episodes available now on Audible The Pig Queen has been an icon to toddlers around the world for 20 years, so it’s about time she entered the world of podcasting. Kids and their parents can enjoy together as Peppa Pig explores big emotions, long drives, and what to do when you’re not tired at bedtime. From the creator of hits like Peace and Harmony, it’s packed with catchy tunes and, of course, some digging into Daddy Pig. Hannah Verdier
Hysterical Wondery+, weekly episodes When a group of girls at an upstate New York school started experiencing convulsions, tremors, and other mysterious symptoms, doctors were baffled. Was it all in their imagination? Or was social media to blame? Now Dan Taberski (Missing Richard Simmons) is investigating the outbreak, which he’s dubbing “mass hysteria,” to uncover links to other unexplained occurrences. HV
Mummy Pig, George Pig, Daddy Pig and, best of all, Peppa Pig will be making their podcast debut. Photo: Everett Collection/Alamy
Pop Culture Debate Club BBC Sounds, weekly episodes If you still miss Call Your Girlfriend, Aminatou Saw’s show puts two pop culture fans head-to-head in a fun debate about important issues. Would you rather spend time with the cast of New Girl or Community? Which is the better sports movie, Space Jam or D2: The Mighty Ducks? Saw has the final say. HV
Coatbridge: The disappearance of Moira Anderson All episodes available now on Audible In 1957, 11-year-old Moira Anderson disappeared during a snowstorm in Coatbridge, a small town near Glasgow. Journalist Rachel Rebes helps Moira’s old neighbour Sandra Brown share her memories. What begins as grief for a missing schoolmate unravels as Brown worries about her own father and discovers a cycle of abuse. HV
The Master: An Indictment Against Neil Gaiman Tortoise, all episodes now available The four-part series reveals the facts that two women have alleged sexual abuse against the author, juxtaposing the accusers’ testimonies, Gaiman’s denials, and conflicting accounts of events (based on consensual relationships) to create a confusing and sometimes difficult story to listen to. Alexi Duggins
There is a podcast
Author and critic Maggie Nelson is a guest on the Commonplace Poetry Podcast. Photo: Deirdre O’Callaghan/The Guardian
this week, Amar Kalia select The 5 Best Poetry PodcastsFrom exploring classic works to the creative secrets of contemporary authors Poetry exchange The easiest way to become familiar with poetry is to listen to it read aloud, analyzed, and explained. Interesting people reading poetry This show does just that, as artists and writers share their favorite poems and briefly discuss their emotional resonance. If you want to dig a little deeper, you can also try this fascinating podcast, where hosts Fiona Bennett and Michael Shaffer first ask their guests to share a meaningful poem, then delve into the poem’s personal meaning and importance to the reader. Hear everyone from actors Brian Cox and Andrew Scott to poet Sarina Godden talk about the power of poetry in everyday life.
commonplace In this long-running series, author Rachel Zucker not only talks about the magic of poetry itself but also interviews poets about their craft and how their everyday encounters influence their creativity. In conversations that can last more than two hours, Zucker offers insight into life and how to navigate it, asking questions about everything from writers’ morning routines to how much sleep they get. Among the poets interviewed are former US presidential candidate Eileen Myles, best-selling author Maggie Nelson, and US Poet Laureate Ada Limon. Perfect for a long journey or a lazy morning, Zucker’s passion for art in all its forms is captivating.
A mouthful of air For an in-depth analysis of a university lecture, check out poet Mark McGuinness’ series, “A Mouthful of Air.” Weaving together interviews with contemporary poets about their work and original explorations of classics such as Chaucer, Emily Dickinson, and D.H. Lawrence, McGuinness doesn’t shy away from textual analysis but rather walks his audience through concepts and teases out myriad meanings from the pages. For a more comprehensive analysis, check out The Poetry Foundation’s Poetry Talk The podcast is also rigorous with roundtable discussions between a group of scholars and writers analyzing classic works and forgotten greats.
Poems that fell off the shelf Focusing on contemporary poetry, this Poetry Foundation series is packed with amazing work by living authors you’ve probably never heard of. Striking the perfect balance of analysis and freewheeling conversation about a writer’s life and inspiration, host Helena De Groot’s episodes include everything from interviews with authors to in-depth reviews of new anthologies to tributes to recently deceased poets. With over 100 episodes to choose from, recommended primers include translator Emily Drumsta’s look at the rhythm of different languages, Hawaiian poet No’u Revilla’s importance of place in one’s work, and Mahogany L Browne’s attempted censorship of the children’s book “Woke: A Young Poet’s Call to Justice.”
Slow down With each episode only five minutes long, The Slowdown has created a genre of its own across 1000 episodes. Combining ASMR relaxation with poetry lessons, the show features a daily reading of a new work by host and poet Major Jackson, accompanied by a brief introduction to the subject. Jackson strays from Western staples to take a broader look at world literature. Read in his soothing baritone, the episodes are incredibly relaxing and meditative, but thankfully, they’re so short they can easily be replayed for fresh insights.
Please try…
From Jameela Jamil to former News of the World editor Andy Coulson, Rylan Clark’s new BBC podcast has some seriously interesting guests. How to get noticed.
The Economist’s new series boom! It examines how the Baby Boomer generation has influenced politics, including the current U.S. presidential election.
With England taking part in the Euro 2024 final this weekend, now’s the perfect time to listen to the Guardian’s Football Weekly podcast, which is turning into Football Daily for the duration of the tournament.
This month is packed with big names in science fiction, including the release of Keanu Reeves' debut novel, the latest from one of Britain's top science fiction writers, Adam Roberts, and a quantum novel from Pen Shepherd.
The one I'm most excited about is Mateo Askaripour This great hemisphereBut it's a mix of science fiction and political thriller, and highly recommended. Perfect holiday reading for late July. Zero stars, not recommendedmany vacationers go a little Lord of the Flies When the sun shines at a luxury resort, it's the perfect time to relax.
According to the publisher, this is a collaboration between “two pioneers across genres,” with Keanu Reeves BRZRKR A comic book immortal soldier wants to die – “a tall, thin man who peers at them from beneath his long dark hair” – and is clearly a Reeves likeness – and a US covert operations group says they'll grant his wish to die if he helps the team first.
I’m a big China Miéville fan, so I’ve already read a few of them (if you haven’t already, Embassy Town Grab a copy as soon as you read it, it's a very clever, moving piece of sci-fi, and of course, I’m a huge Reeves fan, because… Keanu Reeves.
But I had to put the book aside because it was too glamorous for me to continue reading. I might start reading it again though, because if I can't believe in Neo, who can I trust? Maybe I need to get in the zone.
Okay, I'm definitely going to do this. Not only does it sound super interesting, but Roberts' acting is undoubtedly great. This time around, we have two spaceships orbiting a black hole. The crew of both ships are killed within the same afternoon by Captain Alpha Rayne, who is told to do so by a voice emanating from the black hole. This voice is the rather charmingly named “Mr. Modo.” Of course, no one believes Rayne, but something seems to be emanating from within the black hole.
Set in the future, this novel tells the story of a young woman who, after being relegated to second-class citizenship, sets out to find her brother, whom she believed to be dead but is now a suspect in a high-profile murder case. Publishers have compared it to works by N.K. Jemisin and Naomi Alderman, and an early review on book trade site Kirkus called it “an engrossing page-turner about a future made all too real by an unsettling present.” It sounds interesting, and I’m definitely interested to give it a read.
This sounds very interesting. It is set in a near-future world where cancer is on the verge of being eradicated thanks to a new technological cure in which all the cells in the body are replaced with “nanites” – robotic cells that cure the sick, in fact making the patient nearly immortal.
We follow Young-hoon, a literary scholar who has not only created a machine that can think, but is also undergoing a new form of nanotherapy and much more. The book promises to explore “the nature of intelligence and the unexpected consequences of progress, the meaning of humanity and life, and what we should really fear about technology and the future.” It's a lot for a novel, but I’m up for the challenge.
The Edge of Solitude is set on a ship heading to Antarctica.
Shutterstock/Vadim_N
The eco-thriller is set “in a time of severe climate crisis” on a ship heading to Antarctica to hopefully save the region. On board is Ivy Cunningham, a disgraced environmental activist trying to salvage her reputation but also beginning to question the motives of her fellow passengers and the project as a whole.
“Unprofessional underachiever” Dan Foster is vacationing at an island resort when the sun suddenly explodes. As temperatures drop and a revolution begins, he must choose between saving himself and the other guests. Paradise coming to an end? I'll be there!
Marsh, 45, wasn’t happy with where her life was headed, from her career to her marriage to her relationship with her teenage daughter. So when she got the chance to be the star of a TV game show, she was stunned. All this and moreIn “Happy Happiness”, a game that uses quantum technology to allow participants to travel back in time, she gets it. But as you can imagine, even though she gets everything she wants, it all starts to feel a little strange and Marsh begins to ask herself if it was worth it. This is another one for my holiday reading. I love a “live happily ever after” story and when you add time travel and quantum magic dust to the mix, it's amazing.
This new novella is The Red Scholar's Trail is a space opera with a twist of martial arts. Set in an outer space known as the Hollow, home to the mysterious and terrifying Tanglers. When the Tanglers escape, they must be captured before they destroy a civilian city. Two young men from rival clans tasked with stopping the Tanglers find themselves developing feelings for each other.
Featuring characters ranging from a boy trying to bring the natural world back into urban life to a ballet dancer trying to inhabit the consciousness of a mouse, the collection offers us a “kaleidoscopic view of the climate crisis,” the publishers promise (why, at the moment, it’s unclear, but I’d like to know).
Gravity Lost is the second book in the space-based Ambit's Run series.
Shutterstock/Corona Borealis Studios
This is the second installment in the Ambit's Run series of sagas. Cascading FailuresIt sees the crew of the Ambit, having just prevented the destruction of a planet, attempting to break out of prison a man they'd just handed over to one of Spiral's major forces.
Agent Gregory Roark is tasked with finding a teleportation portal on a faraway colony planet, but the former bounty hunter finds himself facing off against better-equipped rivals and the killing begins… in the latest installment of the series.
Michael Mac Liamoir’s 1960 solo show intertwined the private and public life of Oscar Wilde with excerpts from the great Irish wit’s work. Alastair Whatley, who directed The Importance of Being Earnest a few years ago, recently performed Mac Liamoir’s monologues in reading repertory. A recording of the production, directed by Michael Fentiman, is available from the original online. From July 1st.
How did we get here?
Melanie C, of the Spice Girls, has always shied away from contemporary dance: “I found it scary,” she said last year on the eve of a show at Sadler’s Wells with Jules Cunningham and Harry Alexander. But of the contemplative work the trio have devised, she urged, “Look at it with an open mind, it will make you think.” Free to watch until July 25th.
Shakes Against the Machine
In the run up to the July 4th general election, Rob Miles and the Chronic Insanity troupe Web Series combined news headlines from the last 14 years of Conservative governments with Shakespeare’s speeches to show that “the challenges we face are on the same tragic scale as some of his darkest plays”.
Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical
In a sign of continuing tough times for the theatre world, a tour of the Depression-era musical about a robbery was recently cancelled due to poor ticket sales, but a version filmed at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane starring Jeremy Jordan and Frances Maeli McCann is currently running. on demand.
Schwartz’s Song
This album is a collection of 16 carefully selected tracks from the band’s back catalogue spanning half a century, all newly recorded. Introduction to Stephen Schwartz There are three numbers from Godspell, Pippin’s Empty Horn, and The Baker’s Wife’s Meadowlark (due for a revival in 2008). Menier Chocolate Factory) and Defying Gravity will be sung by the four Elphabas from Wicked: Kerry Ellis, Rachel Tucker, Lucie Jones and Alice Fearn.
Hamlet at Elsinore
How about a location-specific play? In 1964, the BBC broadcast a film of Hamlet, shot entirely on location. Kronborg Castle It was produced in Denmark and starred Christopher Plummer as the Tragic Prince, Michael Caine as Horatio, Steven Berkoff as Fortinbras, Lindsay Kemp, and the late Donald Sutherland. On iPlayer.
Starlight Express
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express in London Bard – is the perfect introduction to musicals for children. Yotois an audio platform where you play “cards” using a cheerfully designed cube machine. Starlight Song card released from 1984 (each of which displays colorful graphics on the machine’s screen), with story explanations interspersed between them.
Dub
French-Senegalese choreographer and former hip-hop dancer Amara Dianore’s show is an explosive hour that explores urban dance styles from around the world. Competitive, collaborative and engaging, the free-flowing show will tour Europe this summer but has already Arte and YoutubeThe photo was taken at the Maison de la Culture in Grenoble.
Until the stars come down
Nottingham playwright Beth Steele is going from strength to strength. Following the huge success of House of Shade at the Almeida, this wedding play delighted audiences at the National’s Dorfman Theatre earlier this year. Directed by Bijan Shaybani, NT Home.
Through the cracks
Created by the Office of Everyone and English Touring Theatre, the app uses augmented reality to peel back the floorboards and see the drama unfold beneath your feet, with each story revolving around a character who, in some way, has disappeared through the cracks. In timeis a queer romance written by Sonali Bhattacharya, narrated by Ian McKellan, and starring the always-stellar Sophie Melville. Available Now.
Fantasy is loved by all: it’s fun, intriguing, and messes with our minds.
There are various types of optical illusions, and science often struggles to explain why they deceive human perception. Our brains interpret information from our eyes and fill in the gaps to create what we see in our minds. However, this interpretation is not always accurate.
We’ve compiled some of our favorite visual tricks to challenge your brain.
Checker Shadow Illusion
Photo credit: Edward H. Adelson/Wikipedia
In the image above, rectangles A and B are the same color, although it seems impossible. To demonstrate this fact, here is a rectified image.
Photo credit: Edward H. Adelson/Wikipedia
It’s an example of a contrast illusion where two areas of the same color appear different based on circumstances.
In the checkered shadow illusion, the shadow cast by the green shape seems to darken light areas, creating a surprising effect. Vision scientists created this illusion, and it was developed by Edward Howard Adelson in 1995 to showcase the capabilities of the human visual system in interpreting image information.
Instead of being a flaw, this illusion highlights the effectiveness of our visual perception.
Cafe Wall Illusion
The Cafe Wall illusion. Straight lines appear to be non-straight. Photo credit: Fibonacci/Wikipedia
The Café Wall illusion is a geometric optical illusion where the straight boundaries between dark and light blocks appear curved.
Our brains perceive white areas as larger than black areas in a phenomenon known as the radial illusion. This perception can be changed by swapping white and black colors for lower-contrast colors.
When the color is changed, the lines appear straighter. Photo from Fibonacci/Wikipedia
This illusion, known by various names, was named “café wall illusion” by scientist Richard Gregory, inspired by the design on a café in Bristol, England.
Richard Gregory standing outside the café that inspired the name behind the café wall illusion. Photo by Stephen Battle/Wikipedia
Penrose triangle
3D illustration of the Penrose triangle. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
The Penrose triangle is a geometric optical illusion paradox as it is an impossible 3D object that cannot exist physically. Scientist Lionel Penrose popularized it in the 1950s, and similar versions existed earlier, such as the Reutersvard triangle illusion.
One of the well-known impossible objects, it features prominently in the works of artist MC Escher, like “Relativity” and “Belvedere.”
The Penrose Triangle sculpture in East Perth, Australia, showcases its shape from different perspectives. Photo credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen/Wikipedia
Motion-induced blindness
Observing the green dot in the center animation can make the stationary yellow dot appear to vanish. Animation: Mlechowicz/Wikipedia
The Bonnet illusion, known as “motion-induced blindness,” is a recently discovered optical illusion. A moving pattern rotates around a flashing green dot in the center of the screen, causing yellow dots within the pattern to disappear and reappear at random intervals if stared at for about 10 seconds.
The reasons behind this illusion are complex, but the lack of focus while viewing a moving image plays a significant role.
Necker Cube
The Necker Cube Illusion: Multiple possible interpretations. Photo credit: Getty Images
The Necker Cube is a shape with multiple perspectives, known as “multistable,” rather than an illusion itself. It lacks visual clues about its orientation, allowing for various interpretations by the brain.
Most individuals perceive the bottom left face of the cube as the front, likely due to our inclination to view things from above straight on, leading to this preferred interpretation.
Similar to Rubin’s Vase Illusion, where a single image can appear as either two faces or a vase, the Necker Cube demonstrates multistability.
An example of a Rubin vase. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Sparkling grid illusion
The shimmering grid illusion. Dark dots appear and disappear where the grey lines intersect. Photo credit: Tó campos1/Wikipedia
The shimmering grid illusion challenges your brain by making black dots appear on a grid where white circles intersect, only to quickly disappear. This effect, known as the Hermann grid illusion, is a more recent version of a discovery made by Rudimar Hermann in 1870.
Peripheral drift illusion
Peripheral drift illusion – Colorful magenta dots grow larger and drift outwards as you move your eyes from one dot to another. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
The peripheral drift illusion, seen most clearly in circular designs, was described in 1999 by Jocelyn Forbert and Andrew Herbert. They found that the effect intensifies when the eyes are in motion or blinking.
Forbert and Herbert suggest that a combination of factors, including eye movements, light intensity differences, and depth perception, contribute to this illusion.
The motion illusion of spinning snakes created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka. Photo credit: Trent Steele/Wikipedia
Rabbit and duck illusion
The oldest known example of the rabbit-duck illusion (1892). Photo by Fliegende Blätter/Wikipedia
The rabbit and duck illusion is a type of ambiguous drawing where two objects can be seen, known as a “figure-ground configuration.” Originally published in a German humor magazine, this illusion had the caption “Which animals are most similar? A rabbit and a duck.”
Our brain’s perception is influenced by various factors, including creativity, leading to different interpretations. Another example of this phenomenon is the classic painting of two faces that can also be seen as a vase.
Color constancy
The Roman Originals dress demonstrates how humans perceive color differently. Photo by PA/Alamy
In 2015, a viral debate arose over the colors of a dress in a Cheshire store – some saw it as black and blue, while others as white and gold.
The differences in color perception can be attributed to the brain’s response to different colors under varying lighting conditions, as proposed by neuroscientists Bevil Conway and Jay Knights. Your perception of the dress’s color may vary based on whether you believe the image was taken in natural or artificial light.
Despite the dress manufacturer confirming it as black and blue, the white and gold interpretations made it a well-known example of human color vision discrepancies.
Ponzo illusion
In the Ponzo illusion, both blue horizontal lines are the same length. This illusion shows how the human mind judges the size of an object based on its background. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
The Ponzo illusion is a geometric optical illusion named after Italian psychologist Mario Ponzo, though he did not claim its discovery.
There are several explanations for why the top line appears longer than the bottom one, including the brain perceiving the top line as further away due to converging lines towards a vanishing point.
The Earth is home to many extreme temperatures, from the frigid Arctic to the scorching Sahara Desert. But where is the hottest place on Earth?
Below are the 10 hottest places in the world based on the highest temperatures recorded.
The places on the list may not always be as hot as stated, but the record temperatures suggest high average heat, so be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat if you visit each spot.
If you want to cool down afterwards, check out the 10 coldest places on Earth.
10. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: 52°C (125.6°F)
Photo credit: Getty
Topping the list of hottest places on Earth was Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a temperature of 52°C (125.6°F). Recorded June 22, 2010.
The heat was the highest on record for the region, beating the 51°C recorded in nearby Al Ahsa three days earlier.
This ancient port city is located in western Saudi Arabia, has a population of over 4.6 million and serves as the main gateway to Mecca.
9. Mexicali, Mexico: 52°C (125.6°F)
The temperature is 52°C (125.6°F). Recorded It was recorded in the Mexicali Valley, Mexico, on July 28, 1995. It is the ninth-warmest temperature on Earth. The valley also recorded the coldest temperature ever, −7.0ºC (19.4°F).
Located in the northern part of Mexico's Baja California state, this region is known for its heat, earning it the nickname “The City that Captured the Sun.” It has one of the harshest climates in Mexico, with an average high temperature of 42.2 °C (108 °F) in July and 21.1 °C (70 °F) in January.
8. Al Jazeera Border Gate (UAE): 52.1°C (125.8°F)
In July 2002, a temperature of 52.1°C (125.8°F) was recorded at the Al Jazeera border gate in the United Arab Emirates.
In July 2013, the region again nearly matched its highest ever temperature record (51.2°C).
These temperatures only last about 15 minutes. Temperatures above 50 degrees are almost unbearable. In the UK it reached 40.3°C (Coningsby) In July 2022, temperatures in the UAE rose by more than 10 degrees.
7. Turbat, Pakistan: 53.7°C (128.7°F)
Photo credit: Getty
The seventh hottest on this list is 53.7 °C (128.7 °F), recorded in Turbat, Pakistan on May 28, 2017.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Confirmed The 53.7°C recorded in Turbat was the fourth highest temperature ever recorded at the time.
Turbat is known as one of the hottest cities in Asia and is located on the Kech River in the southwestern part of the country's Balochistan province.
6. Basra, Iraq: 53.9°C (129°F)
The Middle East is one of the warmest regions in the world, with many record-breaking days when temperatures exceed 50 degrees Celsius. Basra, Iraq, is one of those areas. recording The highest temperature reached was 53.9 °C (129 °F) on July 22, 2016.
This matches the heat recorded in Kuwait just one day earlier (more on that below).
Basra is located along the Shatt al-Arab River in the Arabian Peninsula and is a city with a population of approximately 1.5 million.
5. Mitriba, Kuwait: 53.9°C (129°F)
Badr Al-Ma’ilam Mosque in Kuwait City. Photo courtesy of Getty
The fifth-highest temperature on record Verified The maximum temperature was recorded at the Mitriba weather station in Kuwait, where it reached 53.9°C (129°F), according to the WMO.
This incredible temperature was recorded on 21 July 2016 and was confirmed as the hottest place on record in Asia. It was also the hottest officially recognized temperature in 76 years (at the time).
4. Tirat Zvi, Israel: 54°C (129°F)
The highest temperature ever recorded was 54°C (129°F) in Tirat Zvi, Israel, on June 21, 1942. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) classifies Israel as Europe, so depending on where you place the country, this is officially the highest temperature ever recorded on the European continent.
Tirat Zvi, located near the Israeli-Jordanian border, is on the west side of the Jordan River. Population: only 975 As of 2021.
3. Ahvaz, Iran: 54°C (129.2°F)
The highest continental temperature recorded was 54 °C (129.2 °F). Measured Occurred in Ahvaz, Iran between 4:51pm and 5pm on June 29, 2017.
Ahvaz, the capital of Iran's Khuzestan province, has a population of about 1.3 million and a history dating back to the Achaemenid period. The city is known for its nine bridges, including the Black Bridge and the White Bridge.
2. Kebili, Tunisia: 55°C (131°F)
Photo credit: Getty
The highest temperature ever recorded in Africa was measured at 55°C (131°F) in Kebili, Tunisia, on July 7, 1931. This is the second-highest temperature ever recorded on Earth.
Besides the continental record-breaking heat, Kebili The oldest example Settlement site of people who inhabited Tunisia during the Early Palaeozoic Era, about 200,000 years ago. Ancient stone tools have been found near the city.
1. Furnace Creek, Death Valley (USA): 56.7°C (134°F)
Photo credit: Getty
The hottest place on Earth is Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California (USA), where a temperature of 56.7 °C (134 °F) was recorded on 10 July 1913. During summer, the average daily maximum temperature in Death Valley is 45 °C (113 °F).
This is only the air temperature; ground temperatures are much higher. On July 15, 1972, the ground temperature was 93.9 °C (201 °F). Recorded In Death Valley, water is only a few degrees away from boiling temperature.
There have been subsequent claims of higher temperatures, but these have not been proven. One of the hottest places on Earth was recorded in 1922 in what is now Libya, at 58 °C (136 °F).
However, in 2012, the World Meteorological Organization Conclusion This was “improperly recorded” and was off by about seven degrees Celsius, they said.
It backfired Audible, weekly episodes Slow Burn, Think Twice, Fiasco – Leon Neyfakh has produced several high-quality podcasts in the past. Currently, he is focusing on e-cigarettes and his struggles to quit smoking. These podcasts narrate the journey of finding a cigarette that is less harmful. It’s interesting to note the difference in approach between the UK, where e-cigarettes are promoted as a tool to quit smoking, and the US, where there are efforts to ban flavored e-cigarettes. Hannah Verdier
A better paradise Widely available, with weekly episodes An atmospheric near-future podcast from the creators of Grand Theft Auto. Featuring a talented cast, Andrew Lincoln plays Dr. Mark Tyburn who tries to create an addictive video game but abandons the project halfway. Years later, when he is rediscovered, will the game finally see the light of day? HV
Leon Neyfakh’s “Backfired” explores the rise of e-cigarettes. Photo: Nicholas T Ansell/PA
Because the boss is ours Widely available, with weekly episodes Bruce Springsteen may not be the first person you think of when it comes to queer pop idols, but hosts Jesse Lawson and Holly Cascio, “two queer nerds” who are fans of the Boss, delve into this fun and insightful podcast to explore Springsteen’s status as a queer icon. Holly Richardson
Pulling the Thread: Wild Life Widely available, with weekly episodes This captivating series from Drake’s production company follows investigative journalist Lunako Serena and the spy known as “Wolf” as they uncover the truth about Africa’s largest wildlife trafficking ring. The journey takes them from an environmental conference in The Shard in London to infiltrating criminal networks involved in the ivory trade in Uganda. Alexi Duggins
Festival Hall Widely available, with weekly episodes A new series from the creators of the confessional-based X Account, featuring a range of content from ranking secrets of the week to insightful interviews with Philippa Perry about the psychology behind anonymous sharing of secrets. advertisement
There is a podcast
Afua Hirsch, host of “We Need to Talk About the British Empire.” Photo: Suki Dhanda/Observer
this week, Rachel Aroesti Pick the top 5 PodcastsUnited KingdomFrom Armando Iannucci’s irreverent take on Westminster to Afua Hirsch’s reflections on the complex legacy of the British Empire London Grad London is clearly a cosmopolitan city, but there are moments in this darkly fascinating podcast from Tortoise Media’s Paul Caruana Galizia that make you wonder which country has the most influence over our capital. The first series of the show focused on Russian money flowing into London through real estate and, in the case of the Lebedev family, the purchasing power of its ultra-rich investors in multiple newspapers, while in series two the focus shifted to Iran and the government-mandated “death squads” that have repeatedly attempted to assassinate London-based critics of the regime on British soil.
We need to talk about the British Empire Afua Hirsch’s 2018 book, Brit(ish), is both a deeply personal memoir and an insightful analysis of British history, making it essential reading for anyone wanting to gain a deeper understanding of black history and politics in the country. In this podcast series, the author broadens the perspective even further, using her guests’ personal stories to illuminate the legacy of colonialism from different angles. Anita Rani offers insight into Partition, the late Benjamin Zephaniah talks about the Windrush, Diana Rigg talks about growing up at the end of the British colonial era, and musician Emma Lee Moss (formerly Emmy the Great) reminisces about her childhood in Hong Kong under British rule.
Rethinking Westminster Armando Iannucci is one of Britain’s leading satirists, and he’s spent his career lampooning the country’s follies and weaknesses, from the chaos of government with The Thick of It to the banality of mid-level broadcasting via Alan Partridge. In this podcast series for the New Statesman, he and the magazine’s UK editor Anoush Chakerian (who also hosts the magazine’s flagship podcast) take a slightly less-than-modest look at Britain’s most pressing political issues. Topics range from Britain’s “ramshackle” constitution and the old, machismo energy of party politics to the shortcomings of lobby journalism and the deterioration of our supposedly special relationship with the US.
Northern News Edinburgh Award-nominated stand-up comedians Ian Smith and Amy Gledhill are northerners who moved to London but are still keen to hear news from their home town – Gledhill is originally from Hull, Smith from nearby Goole. For Northern News, the pair combine easy-going chatter with local newspaper readings, focusing on the weirdest, most ridiculous and sentimental news they can find. They also host a host of guest comedians who share their own quirky local anecdotes.
The rise and fall of Britpop The story of Britpop is much more than the tabloid-shattering rivalry between Oasis and Blur. It’s a story that has much to say about the traditions and history of British pop culture from the 1960s to the present day. Steve Lamacq and Joe Whiley, co-hosts of Radio 1’s hip show The Evening Sessions when the scene first took off 30 years ago, are perfectly suited to tell the tale. With help from guests including Stuart McOnie and Alex James, the pair take a trip down memory lane to trace Britpop’s journey from an unpopular alternative to trendy US grunge to a cultural force that redefined our national identity.
Please try…
Alexander Skarsgård’s new pod explores startups taking innovative approaches to environmental and social issues How to solve this.
From remote work to immigration, The Atlantic Good on Paper It raises the big questions behind the inevitable topics.
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TThere's a reason why many websites devote huge virtual pages to the question of whether and when a new movie is on Netflix. For many casual viewers, the biggest streaming sites are almost synonymous with streaming itself, with even big brands like Disney+, no longer HBO Max, Peacock, and Paramount+ essentially battling for second place. But at some point, you might have to admit that this is, at best, a battle for third place: last month, all of the aforementioned glitzy non-Netflix services lost out to Tubi in viewership numbers.
While premium streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video are experimenting with ad-supported versions to boost revenue (either by lowering the price of their ad-supported subscriptions, hoping that customers will pay more to avoid the ads, or by making revenue from the ads themselves), Tubi offers a rotating lineup of ad-supported movies and TV shows at an unbeatable price. It's a free service that doesn't even require you to sign in (I know this firsthand: I've been a regular Tubi user for years, but I've yet to create an actual account). Tubi combines the thrilling browsing experience of an old-school video store, the instant gratification of Netflix, and the old-school channel flipping of cable (when everyone embraced the built-in ad breaks that came with watching a movie). Apparently, viewers don't mind a little retro in their streaming experience. Tubi is still growing viewership and ad revenue; in the most recent quarter, the latter increased by 22% (the CEO says the service is growing viewership and ad revenue by 22%). There is no profit yetBut growth in such a competitive and fickle industry is still remarkable.
Even before those numbers were released, Tubi was no longer a timid upstart. The part of the media conglomerate that wasn't sold to Disney, Fox Corporation, which owns the various Fox-branded TV stations, acquired the service in 2020. But its basic approach seems to be much the same: offering viewers a wide range of ad-supported choices (even shows that might have been offered recently or at the same time on other, more premium streaming services) without pumping too much money into flagship originals aimed at subscribers. Tubi's original programming is indeed plentiful, but it also has a retro feel, more in keeping with what you'd expect from cable or direct-to-video exploitation movies of the '90s or early 2000s than, say, HBO. The company has begun experimenting with star-studded, high-profile originals, such as a new series starring TV mainstay Lauren Graham, but they're unlikely to outweigh the appeal of a virtual video store.
In fact, a secret weapon that sometimes goes unmentioned when describing Tubi's rise is the fact that it has a ton of movies older than 30 years ago, which is relatively uncommon for many paid streaming services. At the moment, Netflix has about two dozen movies from before 1990, which is up from the last few months thanks to a recent anniversary effort that promoted movies from 1974 and 1984 together. Max does a little better on average because it owns Turner Classic Movies, but it doesn't have the depth or variety of actual TCM (or a good streaming app that's exclusive to cable TV subscribers). For other services, it's easy to find what's on offer by searching for genres that are less common today, like westerns or musicals. For example, Peacock has one musical from before 1990. Tubi's choices in this department include the original West Side Story, Seven Brides, The Royal Wedding, The Pajama Game, The Jazz Singer, Fiddler on the Roof, Yentl, The Music Man, and High Society. Of course, it won't tell you everything you need to know about the genre, but it's a better start than what more expensive services offer.
That makes Tubi seem like an option for older people who want to complement their MeTV viewing and take a peek into the past. But the company says Tubi has the youngest average age of TV viewers, at 39. The “TV” moniker probably rules out TikTok and YouTube, which are attractive to the youngest media consumers, but Tubi CEO Anjali Sood said: Recent Interviews The company is eyeing a younger audience and sees itself competing with major alternatives to traditional movies and TV, rather than as a future version of cable channels with particularly rich content.
YouTube’s reach (and creators’ endless supply of attractive, algorithmically refined thumbnails) will likely be hard to beat, but for now at least, the two services are impressive contenders. While YouTube lets you rent movies and shows, the platform owes its explosive growth to its original content and creators, who aren’t always immersed in anything more than other YouTube videos and the fickle whims of the algorithms that serve them. This material can combine in many ways: sketch comedy, talk shows, reality TV, visual essays, animated shorts, and more, but much of it has its own parameters and genres, and to outsiders it often seems untethered from history. Tubi, on the other hand, can offer a surprisingly decent crash course in classic movies, if you’re willing to endure a few ad breaks (again, most of us who grew up on cable TV in the ’80s, ’90s, and ’00s were). Even in months when a particular “classics” section is on the wane (or when a particular public domain title's transition is less than optimal), there's an eclecticism that stretches beyond the very recent past and can actually satisfy your curiosity on a tight budget. If streaming is rotting our brains and keeping us indoors, maybe streaming can offer at least a little breadth.
Maybe it's a middle-aged fantasy. The culture would return to a richer sense of history that actually makes entertainment from different eras more enjoyable to connect. But now the brand that streaming stands for is hostile to theatrical releases, funding writer-driven projects, and churning out shows that are increasingly removed from the craft of TV production. Netflix has inadvertently created a new, worse kind of monoculture, one where choice is scarce and binge-watching is encouraged, insatiable and unsatisfying. Imagine a future where you lounge on Tubi instead.
Helldivers 2, reminiscent of the sci-fi military satire and hyper-grotesque brutality of Starship Troopers, took the gaming world by storm upon its release in February. This cooperative action game offers immersive and hilarious gameplay, pitting players against terrifying insects and crazed robots in various desolate landscapes. Each battle feels like a part of a grander narrative, amplified by Arrowhead Game Studios’ adept use of social media channels.
Our Review: “Everything about this game is incredible, including the incredible things it sets out to do.” Read the full review
Animal Well
An ethereal joy…Animal Well. Photos: Shared Memories
Animal Well may seem like a niche game where players control a blob trapped in a well, but it surprises with its twisty puzzle-platform mechanics. This atmospheric and dreamy adventure features visuals reminiscent of a lost 1980s arcade game peeked through a window. Navigate the well, acquire new skills, and encounter charming creatures in this unique experience.
Our Review: “In an age where major video game companies are focusing on developing video games that are designed to function like sports, what a treat to see a game this complex and restrained on offer.” Read the full review
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
A skilled warrior…Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown. Photo: Ubisoft
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown marks the return to the roots of Ubisoft’s iconic adventure series. Straying away from modern 3D exploration, this game offers precise 2D platforming as players embody the skilled warrior Sargon on a mission to rescue Prince Ghassan. Traverse labyrinthine fortresses, master jumps and dodges, and engage in intense boss battles in this new classic of the “Metroidvania” genre.
Our Review: “It’s been 13 years since the last all-new Prince of Persia game, so if this is a new direction, I’m excited to see what the results are.” Read the full review
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Capcom’s epic role-playing adventure, Dragon’s Dogma 2, may seem like a standard genre offering at first glance. However, this quirky and sometimes awkward game is filled with unique lore and quirky characters, offering a fun and hilarious experience reminiscent of a 1980s fantasy film.
Our Review: “To sum up this game in one sentence, it prioritizes fun over functionality. What you need to understand is that Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a very silly game.” Read the full review
Crow Country
Horror ride…Crow Country. Photo: SFB Games
Embark on a creepy survival horror adventure in Crow Country, where something sinister lurks in an abandoned theme park near Atlanta. This game takes inspiration from classic horror titles of the mid-90s, offering a spine-chilling experience reminiscent of games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
Our Review: “Crow Country is more than a collection of PS1-era classics; it’s a true triumph in itself.” Read the full review
Lorelei and the Laser Eye
Immerse yourself in a mysterious and bizarre adventure with Lorelei and the Laser Eye. Navigate through an abandoned hotel, unraveling a twisted mystery that intertwines art, film, and perhaps even murder. Each room presents a new puzzle to solve, offering hours of cerebral and stylish gameplay.
Our Review: “An engaging puzzle game that uses creepy visuals and a puzzling storyline as an essential part of the experience, not just a design gimmick.” Read the full review
Cinematic…Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. Photo: Xbox Game Studios
Embark on a dark and chilling journey with Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, as troubled warrior Senua navigates through the frozen and terrifying landscapes of ancient Iceland. Dive into Viking legend and explore themes of pain and determination in this extraordinary cinematic experience.
Our Review: “Hellblade II is a work to be cherished. Who knows how many more intelligent masterpieces this risk-averse industry will produce in the future?” Read the full review
Baratoro
A fascinating card game…Balatro. Photo: LocalThunk/Playstack
Balatro is an indie gem that combines poker, solitaire, and deck-building gameplay into an addictively fun experience. This roguelike card game features special abilities and a challenging gameplay loop that keeps players coming back for more.
Our Review: “A trippy take on poker that seamlessly blends different game elements. Read the full review
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Enter the world of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the middle installment in Square Enix’s revered Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. Join eco-hero Cloud on a quest to defeat his nemesis Sephiroth after recovering from a climactic battle with the malevolent Shinra Corporation. Immerse yourself in detailed storytelling, strategic combat, and a captivating RPG experience.
Our Review: “Longtime fans will devour every morsel of sweet fan service here and savor every moment spent with this much-loved cast.” Read the full review
Tekken 8
The technique that shakes the monitor…Tekken 8. Photo: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Tekken 8 emerges as the preeminent fighting game among a resurgence of iconic titles like Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1. With a diverse roster, powerful moves, and innovative fighting mechanics, Tekken 8 captures the essence of classic PlayStation 1 fighting games, delivering an exhilarating combat experience.
Our Review: “Familiar yet innovative, quirky yet intuitive, Tekken 8 provides a satisfying gameplay experience with its dynamic fighting system.” Read the full review
Honorable Mention
Hauntii, Sea of Thieves (PS5 version), Botany Manor, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, and Supermarket Times.
Where everyone knows your name Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson ( sometimes) Widely available, with weekly episodes
The two Cheers stars reunite and rekindle their friendship while chatting with their interviewees, and as you’d expect, there’s plenty of laughs. Starting with Will Arnett, the host is questioned about his comedic prowess just as much as his guests, including a great anecdote about Harrelson and Arnett playfully upsetting Bono at a celebrity dinner party. Alexi Duggins
Steve Fishman was an intern at a local Connecticut newspaper in the ’70s when he was hitchhiking with a man named Robert Carr III. While writing his story, he discovered that the man was the murderer of three people. Fishman uses confession tapes and interviews with detectives to recount what happened. Holly Richardson
New podcast “Animal” features stories of hamsters, puffins and more. Photo: Irina Vasilevskaya/Getty Images
animal Widely available, all episodes available now
A warm and personal look at the beauty of the animal kingdom, the show is full of magic, from helping a baby puffin escape a cliff and back into the sea to the charming tale of a dog rescuing a lost hamster. Come see the adorable animals and hear their amazing stories. advertisement
Sam Smith’s new podcast is named after their childhood bedroom, the haven they retreated to after so many hard days. Now they’re sharing those feelings with celebrity guests. The first guest is Elliot Page, who gives a moving talk about coming out, the joy (and anger) of being trans, and not feeling shame. Hannah Verdier
American satirist Jon Stewart is releasing a news-heavy podcast to coincide with the turmoil of the US election. The first episode is about corruption, which naturally brings up Donald Trump, and Stewart hosts thoughtful monologues with knowledgeable guests about the dysfunction of democracy, economic reform and challenging conventional wisdom. HV
There is a podcast
Coco Khan and Nish Kumar, hosts of the pod “Save the UK”. Photo: Lucy North/PA
this week, Hannah Verdier 5 best podcasts election From open-minded analysis of the US elections unfolding on both sides of the Atlantic to Nish Kumar and Koko Khan asking the all-important questions in the UK
Election dysfunction Just in time for an election-packed year, Beth Rigby guides Conservative MP Ruth Davidson and Labour’s Jess Phillips (with special guests on the campaign trail). With their feet firmly in the thick of British politics, the trio can offer real insight into the US and UK election campaigns. With an informed, gossipy approach, they share perks like theories on why Rishi Sunak chose the 4th of July, how leaders are preparing for TV debates, and a chat with Angela Rayner.
Run Up On all things related to the US election, host Astead W. Herndon takes a measured approach and covers a wide range of opinions in this New York Times show. Some of the opinions may surprise you. Is Donald Trump “over-prosecuted”? Yes, that’s the accusation that Conway made when Herndon asked Kellyanne Conway and Serinda Lake what women voters really want. What do the youngest voters think of the oldest president? Can celebrities help swing the election? And what’s next? If you want to catch up on all the dramatic developments in the election campaign in a 30-minute episode, this podcast is for you.
Oh God, what’s next? Every Tuesday and Friday, the political podcast modestly promises to “make the unbearable bearable with the highest quality guests, analysis and bad jokes” (“Gloomy people on the dance floor,” “What’s the story? Conservatives in mourning,” and “Things are only getting wetter, anyone?). There will also be bonus episodes in which the team will respond quickly to the latest election campaign gaffes and surprises, starting with Rishi Sunak’s pesky national service scheme for lazy young people. Additional panel shows are scheduled during election week, ensuring lively debate.
Pods will save the UK Crooked Media’s Save America features four former Barack Obama aides offering insider insight, while Nish Kumar and Koko Khan (above) provide laughs in the UK version. If you’re into the left, the hosts are relentless, with Khan especially delivering some scathing criticism in his heavyweight interviews. Important questions are asked, like “Would you kiss a Conservative?” With the countdown to the election on, a thoughtful episode addresses the human side of policy, asking what trans and non-binary people need now.
Politics Weekly UK Could Sunak lose his seat in the election? That’s just one of the questions posed by John Harris on The Guardian’s politics podcast as the election looms. Harris cleverly describes the election as “the political equivalent of a 12-hour wait at the emergency room” and asks why Sunak’s campaign is so chaotic and bleak. The conversation is candid and features quality guests from across the political spectrum, so the show doesn’t have to rely on comedy to make the election fun. Guests include reporters in the middle of the election, such as The Guardian’s Pippa Crerar and The Spectator’s Katie Bowles. The Guardian also has short election episodes every weekday on its Today in Focus feed.
Please try…
New series from former Invisibilia presenter Yowei Show ProxyIt’s about honest, human conversations with strangers.
Comedian Chloe Petts delves into the big history of small rooms in a Radio 4 series. Toilet Humor.
As a human, you will play a crucial role in identifying whether a photo or video was created using artificial intelligence.
Various detection tools are available for assistance, either commercially or developed in research labs. By utilizing these deepfake detectors, you can upload or link to suspected fake media, and the detector will indicate the likelihood that it was generated by AI.
However, relying on your senses and key clues can also offer valuable insights when analyzing media to determine the authenticity of a deepfake.
Although the regulation of deepfakes, especially in elections, has been slow to catch up with AI advancements, efforts must be made to verify the authenticity of images, audio, and videos.
One such tool is the Deepfake Meter developed by Siwei Lyu at the University at Buffalo. This free and open-source tool combines algorithms from various labs to help users determine if media was generated by AI.
The DeepFake-o-meter demonstrates both the advantages and limitations of AI detection tools by rating the likelihood of a video, photo, or audio recording being AI-generated on a scale from 0% to 100%.
AI detection algorithms can exhibit biases based on their training, and while some tools like DeepFake-o-meter are transparent about their variability, commercial tools may have unclear limitations.
Lyu aims to empower users to verify the authenticity of media by continually improving detection algorithms and encouraging collaboration between humans and AI in identifying deepfakes.
audio
A notable instance of a deepfake in US elections was a robocall in New Hampshire using an AI-generated voice of President Joe Biden.
When subjected to various detection algorithms, the robocall clips showed varying probabilities of being AI-generated based on cues like the tone of the voice and presence of background noise.
Detecting audio deepfakes relies on anomalies like a lack of emotion or unnatural background noise.
photograph
Photos can reveal inconsistencies with reality and human features that indicate potential deepfakes, like irregularities in body parts and unnatural glossiness.
Analyzing AI-generated images can uncover visual clues such as misaligned features and exaggerated textures.
An AI-generated image purportedly showing Trump and black voters. Photo: @Trump_History45
Discerning the authenticity of AI-generated photos involves examining details like facial features and textures.
video
Video deepfakes can be particularly challenging due to the complexity of manipulating moving images, but visual cues like pixelated artifacts and irregularities in movements can indicate AI manipulation.
Detecting deepfake videos involves looking for inconsistencies in facial features, mouth movements, and overall visual quality.
The authenticity of videos can be determined by analyzing movement patterns, facial expressions, and other visual distortions that may indicate deepfake manipulation.
Crypto experts reveal that Polkadot (DOT), Polygon (MATIC), Litecoin (LTC), and ETFSwap (ETFS) are altcoins that can offer 100x returns
A renowned crypto expert has exclusively revealed the top 4 altcoins he believes have the ability to deliver up to 100x returns.Experts recommend Polkadot (DOT), Polygon (MATIC), Litecoin (LTC), and ETFS Wap (ETFS) It has the ability to deliver 100x returns to investors who get in early, indicating significant upside potential within the crypto ecosystem.
Polkadot (DOT) is one of the top 4 altcoins
Polkadot (DOT)is a prominent open source blockchain protocol and is recognized as one of the 100x altcoins with potential for investors. The network is designed to securely connect and facilitate cross-chain transfer of data and assets, enhancing blockchain interoperability.
Aiming to establish a decentralized blockchain internet, Polkadot (DOT) is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving crypto ecosystem. Classified as a layer 0 meta-protocol, Polkadot (DOT) supports a network of layer 1 blockchains called parachains.
Currently, the DOT token price is $6.93, reflecting an increase of 3.83% in the past 24 hours, and Polkadot holds the 14th place on CoinMarketCap with a market capitalization of $9.9 billion.
Polygon (MATIC): Strengthening the scalability of cryptocurrency blockchains
Polygon (MATIC) is known for enhancing Ethereum's scalability and interoperability. Its framework improves Ether's functionality without changing its core structure. Polygon (MATIC) leverages sidechains to significantly increase the scalability of the Ethereum mainnet, reduce transaction costs, and benefit users.
Polygon has a market capitalization of $6.72 billion and remains one of the top 20 digital currencies. The potential for profit within the rapidly evolving blockchain ecosystem makes it one of the best options for investors looking to maximize their profits.
Polygon token price is currently $0.679, up 3% in the last 24 hours. Over the past year, Polygon (MATIC) has shown a notable upward trend, increasing in value by 104%.
Litecoin (LTC)is a modified Bitcoin codebase launched in 2011 and containing 84 million tokens. This altcoin is known for fast transactions and is suitable for everyday use.
Litecoin (LTC), also known as “Silver Coin,” offers more reasonable fees and faster processing than Bitcoin. In two months, LTC has grown by 38% and experts believe it can break further barriers.
However, Litecoin (LTC) price has experienced significant price movements in recent weeks, resulting in a 25% decline in profits, while this week's data shows sales volumes jumped 23.89% to $372.25 million. It is shown that
ETFSwap (ETFS) Leads Altcoin with 100x Return Potential
Compared to Polkadot (DOT), Polygon (MATIC), and Litecoin (LTC), the ETFSwap (ETFS) project stands out as a more attractive investment opportunity for crypto investors. 100x return to their portfolio.
The ETFSwap (ETFS) ecosystem offers 100x return potential by providing access to a diverse range of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) across different asset classes and investment strategies through ETF tokenization. Masu.
As a DeFi project built on the Ethereum (ETH) network, ETFS Wap (ETFS) It offers users and investors a variety of opportunities within the DeFi ecosystem, including providing liquidity, participating in staking, and earning rewards.
It is a fully audited, non-KYC cryptocurrency exchange that allows investors to trade between cryptocurrencies and ETFs and vice versa without leaving the security and privacy of the blockchain. This makes the platform a leader in the blossoming real-world asset story.
The ETFSwap project includes: Raised over $1.5 million This is a very remarkable achievement in the cryptocurrency field. A private funding round raised $750,000 in a matter of hours, and a public sale raised over $500,000 in a week, highlighting the strong interest and confidence of investors.
To ensure fairness and inclusivity, the project will allocate 40% of its token supply to public pre-sale, 24% to the ecosystem, 12% to liquidity and listing reserves, and 4% to the community. Secured.
Stage 1 of the ETFSwap (ETFS) presale is currently underway and over 65 million tokens have already been sold. Price per token is $0.00854. This has caused considerable excitement among early investors as the upcoming pre-sale stage 2 is expected to increase the token price to his $0.01831.
For more information on the ETFS presale, please see below.
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) has announced the winners of this year’s Scientific Image Competition, which celebrates the hidden beauty of scientific research.
The contest is divided into four categories: “Subjects of Research,” “Locations and Equipment,” “Women and Men Scientists,” and “Video Loops.”
The winning entries include an image of the transparent abdomen of a glass frog taken by Francesca Angiolani-Larrea, a doctoral student at the University of Bern, who won first place in the “Research Subject” category.
Check out the winners and standout images from this year’s contest.
Distinguishing between locations and instrument categories – organized chaos
This operating room image was taken before pig surgery began. The purpose of this surgery was to evaluate the in vivo performance of a new vascular graft for aortic replacement. This treatment has the potential to improve patients’ life expectancy and quality of life after intervention. Photo credit: Georgios Lovas
Distinguishing research target categories – maize root microbiome
This image visualizes the corn root microbiome (the collection of microorganisms that live in or on the roots) and how they process the plant’s secondary metabolites. Photo credit: Lisa Tennen
Winners in the Research Subject Category – In Search of a Good Father
This image shows Hyalinobtrachium valerioi, a type of glass frog with a transparent stomach. Although child rearing in the animal kingdom has traditionally been seen as the job of the mother, it takes on a more diverse form in amphibians. This species is a good example. The female’s role is to select the best mate and lay eggs. Males stay close to their children and take care of them. Sometimes they hold up to seven animals at once. Photo credit: Francesca Angiolani-Larrea
Differentiating between video loop categories – Smapshot
“Smapshot” is a crowdsourcing project that allows citizens to localize historical photos using a virtual globe. Participants can georeference the image by clicking on points that appear within the image and on the virtual globe. Georeferenced images are of interest to researchers and the general public because they help visualize phenomena such as climate change and urbanization. Video stills by Jens Ingensand
Video Loop Categories Distinction – Tumor Cells…
A still image from a video showing how tumor cells extracted from patient tissue grow within a three-dimensional matrix. Video stills by Michele Gallioni
Male and female science winners – more than just wearing lab coats
In this photo, a veterinarian is auscultating a mini pig’s heart to make sure it’s healthy. Photo credit: Mariafrancesca Petrucci
Winner of the Video Loop Category – Wingtip vortex…
This shows the flow pattern in a wind tunnel test section that occurs downstream of an aircraft arched wing located near a solid surface. In classic flight conditions, high above the ground, a single vortex develops at the wing tip. In this case, a complex spiral system is seen. Video stills by Cyprien de Sepibus
Distinguishing research subject categories – Cerebrospinal fluid…
This supercomputing simulation shows how cerebrospinal fluid flows around the optic nerve. Cerebrospinal fluid flows from the brain to the optic nerve, nourishing it and removing toxic metabolites. Photos by Diego Rossinelli, Jatta Berberat, Jill Forsti
Location and Equipment Winner – Bees and Chips
This photo shows a close-up of a robotic device inhabited by bees, developed within the Mobile Robot Systems Group at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL). Trials were being carried out in Austria in collaboration with biologists from the University of Graz as part of the EU-funded Hiveopolis project. Photo credit: Raphael Balmak
Scientists Women and Men by Category – Wheat Harvest
Hundreds of research wheat fields must be threshed to study crop growth using sensors and high-tech equipment. This includes manual labor such as bagging and collecting seed samples for drying and further processing. Photo credit: Andreas Hund
Distinguishing between locations and equipment categories – UV reactors…
The photo shows the UV reactor used for photopolymerization. Photopolymerization is a process in which light induces the chemical assembly of short monomer molecules to form long polymer chains. The reactor is built with a 5-meter strip containing 300 LEDs wrapped inside an aluminum cylinder. Photo credit: Deborah Toney
Distinguishing women from men in science – the big stakes in the history of medicine
This photo was taken at the historic library and museum of the Saint-Louis Hospital in Paris, France. It has a collection of books on the history of medicine and dermatology, many of which are out of print and extremely rare. Photo by Alexandre Wenger and Radu Suciu
Video loop category differentiation – tumor growth simulation
This computer simulation shows how a malignant tumor grows from a single cell to a million cells. Each cell is colored according to its relative age, from red (young) to blue (old). Video stills by Roman Vetter
Classification of research subject categories – My voice in the video…
My Voice in Images is a photo-based participatory research method that gives children and young people the opportunity to express their views on social issues and public policies that interest them. The children who created this photo emphasized the need for a solid roof over their heads. Photo by Sylvia Garcia Delahaye and Lavinia Johnson.
Distinguishing between locations and instrument categories – Wandering eye
An ophthalmic microsurgeon practices surgical techniques for artificial eyes. The development of educational materials aims to create realistic conditions for surgical training workshops before it is possible to safely operate on live patients. Photo credit: Julien Boussette
Distinguishing research object categories – thin layer chromatography plates…
Thin layer chromatography plates in fluorescent dye synthesis. Chromatography is a technique for spatially separating the components of a mixture. This example image was generated during the purification of a complex fluorochrome, or fluorescent compound. Photo credit: Salome Puntenar
America is often described as the land of the free and the home of the brave. However, some parts of the country grapple with issues surrounding violent crime.
According to data from the FBI, dangerous cities are ranked based on the number of serious felonies reported per 100,000 people in a year. These felonies include murder, manslaughter, assault, and robbery.
Recent data indicates a general decline in violent crime across the United States. Technological advancements, such as real-time crime maps and gun detection software, are being utilized to enhance safety in urban areas. However, here are some of America’s most dangerous cities.
10. Indianapolis, Indiana
An aerial view of the downtown area of Indianapolis looking east-northeast. The Indiana State Capitol is visible in the foreground.Photo credit: TpsDave/Wikipedia
Indianapolis, known for hosting the Indy 500, boasts museums and green spaces. However, the city also struggles with a high incidence of violent crime, with 1,333.96 violent crimes per 100,000 people reported in 2019.
Efforts to lower violent crime rates include initiatives like the Indiana Crime Gun Task Force, which aims to combat the flow of firearms into the city.
9. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Monsoon season in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. This is the view from the Sandia Mountains of the Embud His Canyon Trailhead.Photo by Mona Makela/Getty Images
Albuquerque, known for its culture and history, faces a violent crime rate of 1,369.14 felonies per 100,000 people, placing it as the 9th most dangerous city. The number of crimes continued to rise from 2019 to 2023.
To address the high crime rate, funding has been increased for local law enforcement agencies to implement technology like video surveillance, live mapping, acoustic monitoring, and gunshot recognition technology.
8. Stockton, California
Stockton has one of the highest crime rates in California.Photo by Luis Cinco/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images
Stockton, a port city, with a relatively small population, faces a high violent crime rate of 1,414.56 felonies per 100,000 people, ranking it as the 8th most dangerous city.
The city declared bankruptcy in 2012, mainly due to real estate value decline and high unemployment rates from the 2008 financial crisis. Efforts to combat crime include additional taxes for police enforcement and anti-gang programs.
7. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland waterfront on the Cuyahoga River, USA. Photo by Kenneth Sponsler/Getty Images
Cleveland, located on Lake Erie, is known for its port, heavy industry, and advancements in the medical field. Unfortunately, the city faces a violent crime rate of 1,556.76 crimes per 100,000 people.
While crime had been decreasing, there was a significant rise in crime rates in 2020 and 2021, attributed to increased poverty rates and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on local police forces.
6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
A police car drives down Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Milwaukee. Photo credit: Vincent Desjardins/Wikipedia
Milwaukee, famed for its beer and cheese, suffers from a declining population and a violent crime rate of 1,597.36 felonies per 100,000 people.
The city aims to attract residents back through new investments and building developments.
5. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City skyline. Photo by Tony Dezenzio/Getty Images
Kansas City, famous for its barbecue and jazz, faces a rising crime rate with 1,724.31 violent crimes per 100,000 people recorded in 2019.
To combat crime, the Kansas City Police Department collaborates with community organizations to implement citywide strategies, addressing poverty, mental health, and violence prevention.
4. Memphis, Tennessee
A Memphis police car is parked on Beale Street in Memphis, USA. Photo courtesy of Zodebala/Getty Images
Memphis, known for blues and rock music, struggles with a high violent crime rate, recording nearly 400 murders in 2023.
Efforts to combat crime include federal funding and the Violent Crime Initiative, aiming to revitalize the city and improve safety.
3. Baltimore, Maryland
Contrast between residential and industrial areas on President Street in Baltimore, USA. You can see the downtown skyline in the distance. Photo credit: Alex Potemkin/Getty Images
Baltimore, a vital port city, faces a high violent crime rate of 2,027.01 felonies per 100,000 people.
New strategies implemented in 2021, treating violent crime as a public health issue, have significantly reduced crime rates and offer a promising future for residents.
2. Detroit, Michigan
An abandoned building on Franklin Street in downtown Detroit, USA.Photo by Ayman Heikal/Getty Images
Detroit, once thriving with industrial history, faces a violent crime rate of 2,056.67 crimes per 100,000 people due to population decline and economic challenges.
Recent improvements in wages, poverty levels, and crime rates are leading to a potential resurgence in Detroit.
1. St. Louis, Missouri
Goodfellow Boulevard (shown in this image) forms the boundary of what is known as “Hayden's Rectangle.” This is a rectangular piece of land in the northern part of the city, an area of high crime and poverty.Photo by Jahi Chikwendu/Washington Post/Getty Images
St. Louis is the most dangerous city, with 2,082.29 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2019, attributed to high poverty and racial disparities.
Efforts to combat crime include new camera technology to help reduce crime rates and create a safer environment for residents.
R game marks an important milestone in the gaming world with the launch of the $RGAME token, scheduled for April 8, 2024 at 10am UTC.
This big step for R Games will launch on platforms such as DAOMaker. pools financeListed on top exchanges such as , Finceptor, and Paragen. Gate.io, mexico globalPancakeSwap, Raydium, BingX.
A strong community at Fabwelt Studios and WEMIX Play supports this release.
$RGAME is poised to transform the blockchain industry with artificial intelligence, precision engineering, and racing.
Ferrum Network, BMW Capital, Lavender Capital, Qu Ventures, Odiyana Ventures, IBC Group, Mario Nawfal, Sky Wee, Yuen Wong, Robbie Jo, Rajan Raj.
Main features of R game include
interoperable NFTs
User-generated content feature
Design using AI
This unique combination sets R Games apart as a frontrunner in the Web3 AI and gaming space, catering to both experienced gamers and beginners.
As the countdown to TGE and IDO begins, R Games invites gamers, investors, and enthusiasts alike to join us on a journey to revolutionize the gaming industry and unlock new possibilities in the Web3 world.
The future of R games
Looking to the future, R Games has ambitious plans in place.
Development work is focused on implementing upgrades such as an advanced upgrade system, virtual garage, and AI integration.
These additional features are designed to provide users with different opportunities to earn money using models such as:
develop and acquire
Watch to Earn
PLAY AND EARN
Players can tweak and electronically upgrade all vehicle models in the game within the Workshop, providing a customizable experience.
The integration of AI technology allows users to easily design car characters without any technical expertise.
Roadmap also includes diverse modes such as F1, Street Racing, Story Mode, and Off-Road Racing to cater to a wide audience.
About RGames
R game is a highly customized platform offering diverse game modes aimed at building the largest blockchain-based racing ecosystem.
The R Games team comes from the successful studio venture Gyros Studios LCC, formerly known as Fabwelt Studios LLC, which built numerous successful blockchain games.
Loet de Hooge, Abhishek Pegada, and Rubina Naaz are the visionary founders of R Games, bringing together diverse expertise and passion for gaming and blockchain technology.
Loet de Hooge is known for its technical capabilities and innovation.
Abhishek Pegada will contribute strategic leadership and business acumen, while Rubina Naaz brings a creative, user-centric approach to the team.
In The Truth of Areke, the last remaining free city in the Eternal Desert has been under siege for centuries.
Shutterstock / Liu Zishan
This month we have new works by several big name authors. Cixin Liu and Ann Leckie both have easy-to-read collections of short texts. It also depicts a dystopian future by award-winning Thea Obret, and a world where woolly mammoths have been brought back from the world. Douglas Preston's bestseller.He also loves the sound of Scott Alexander Howard's debut song another valleya town where past and future versions exist in the following valleys, and the space adventures of Sofia Samatar. Practice, horizon, and chain. There are so many things I want to read and not enough time…
This is a collection of short stories by science fiction author Liu, who is currently on the rise thanks to a new Netflix film. three body problem, from essays and interviews to short stories. I love this excerpt from an essay about science fiction fans. In it he calls us “mysterious aliens in the crowd.” They “jump like fleas from the future to the past and back again, floating like gas clouds between nebulae. In an instant we can reach the edge of the universe or tunnel into quarks.” or swim inside the core of a star.''Aren't we lucky to have a world like this on our shelves?
Leckie is a must-read author for me, and this is the first complete collection of her short stories, ranging from science fiction to fantasy. On the sci-fi side, we'll be able to dip in again. imperial latch And we're also promised to “learn the secrets of the mysterious Lake of Souls” in a brand new novel.
In the disastrous future, an 11-year-old girl arrives in Morningside with her mother. Once a luxury high-rise, Morningside is now another crumbling part of Island City, half submerged under water. Obrecht won the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2011 for her debut novel. tiger's wife.
Samatar won all kinds of awards for his first novel. Stranger in Olondria. Her latest work depicts the story of a boy who grew up working on a mining ship in the stars, but whose life changes when he is given the opportunity to receive an education at the ship's university. Sounds interesting.
A boy grows up working on a mining ship surrounded by starry skies in The Practice, Horizon, and The Chain.
Getty Images
It's set in a Rocky Mountain valley, where guests at the luxury resort can see woolly mammoths, giant ground sloths and Irish moose brought back from extinction through genetic engineering. But then a series of murders begins, and the two investigators must find out what's really going on.this is what it looks like Jurassic Park-It looks like a lot of fun. And if you want more mammoth-related reading, try my colleague Michael Le Page's excellent explanation of why they won't be coming back anytime soon.
The award-winning author we have to talk about kevin Reflecting her thoughts on the so-called “culture wars” in her fiction, she imagines a world where the “spiritual equality movement” is at its peak, and “the worst thing you can do is call someone 'stupid'.” There is.
This speculative novel alternates endlessly through the wilderness, with the same town to the east 20 years ahead of its time, and the same town to the west 20 years behind. Border crossings are only allowed on “memorial tours,'' which allow people to see the dead in towns where they are still alive. Odile, 16, will take a seat on the Conseil Commission, which can decide who can travel across borders. I love this sound.
Many may wonder if Marvel's superhero stories are really science fiction, but I'm leaning toward the multiverse aspect of this here and including it because it seems kind of interesting. This is the first installment in a new series that reimagines the origins of some of our biggest heroes. Here, Thor died defending Earth from Loki's pranks, and the Norse trickster god, exiled to our planet, is now dealing with the consequences.
the second book of eternal desert The series is set 500 years in the future. Ajungo's lie, which follows a junior peacekeeping force in the last remaining free city in the Eternal Desert, which has been under siege for centuries. It was actually released in March, but I missed it then, and science fiction contributor Sally Addy introduced it as a title to watch this year, so I'm introducing it now.
abnormality Written by Andrei Nikolaidis, translated by Will Firth
On New Year's Eve, the last year of humanity, various stories unfold, from a high-ranking minister with blood on his hands to a nurse with a secret. Later, in a cabin in the Alps, a musicologist and his daughter, the last people left on Earth, try to make sense of this catastrophe.according to independent personNicolaidis makes “Samuel Beckett look aggressively cheerful,'' and I admit that I sometimes want to see stories like that.
In this techno-thriller, Mal is a free AI, unconcerned with the conflicts going on between humans, but is trapped inside the body of a cyborg mercenary and is responsible for keeping the girl she died protecting. It will be.
The standard chicken egg available in stores is a remarkable natural gift, filled with nutrients and incredibly versatile for cooking. However, they all look the same, even the chocolate ones have the same size and shape.
Fortunately, there are numerous fascinating examples of eggs in nature. From baby toads emerging from their mother’s back like in a sci-fi movie to strange spiral structures washing up on shorelines, eggs have evolved unique methods for various creatures to reproduce and safeguard their offspring.
So, which animal lays the most peculiar eggs? Take a look at our collection.
1. Surinam toad
Surinamese toad eggs formed on the back of a female – Image courtesy of Getty
The Surinamese toad, a fully aquatic frog species primarily found in South America, exhibits a fascinating reproductive process. During breeding, the female releases 60 to 100 eggs, each of which is fertilized individually by the male. These eggs are then formed into a honeycomb structure and attached to the female’s back ensuring their protection until hatching, which typically occurs between 4 to 6 months later.
2. Stink bug
An adult female Antytheuchus stink bug guarding her eggs – Image courtesy of Getty
Stink bugs, also known as shield bugs, are insects with sharp teeth and a defensive spray. Female shield bugs lay eggs of various colors to aid in camouflage. This species produces colorful and intriguing eggs.
3. Whelk
Whelk egg case on the beach – Image courtesy of Getty
Whelks, large sea snails found around the UK coast, lay up to 2,000 eggs in a spongy ball or spiral structure. Once hatched, these unique structures float to the water surface and often wash up on beaches.
Check out the rest of the list for more bizarre eggs!
serial Wide range of weekly episodes available The OG of podcasting returns for an amazing Season 4 with Sarah Koenig and Dana Chivis’ History of Guantanamo. This is a story they’ve wanted to tell for years, but haven’t been able to move much beyond the official boundaries until now. Today, staff and detainees are ready to talk. While the former report partying “pissed off,” the latter, whose response costs each $13 million a year, discuss their fears. Hannah Verdier
die for Widely available, all episodes now available Seduction and “sexual exploitation” may sound like the stuff of male fantasy, but Neil Strauss gives a Russian woman a chance to talk about the trappings of surveillance and love. First, he has to figure out if she’s the real deal, since she claims to be a “victim who was brainwashed into thinking I’m a hero.” HV
hidden heroes of history Wide range of weekly episodes available There’s nothing better than hearing Helena Bonham Carter (pictured below) tell the story of Ida and Louise Cook. In an archival interview with Sue McGregor, Mills & Boon novelist Ida talks about romance, then Bonham Carter talks about the pair’s relationship with opera stars and helping Jews escape from Nazi Germany. Explore the lives of the sisters. HV
Helena Bonham Carter. Photo: Theo Wargo/FilmMagic
It’s like a joke Wide range of weekly episodes available Hearing Katie Kershaw, Tien Tran, and ER Fightmaster talk about “all things queer, trans, and pro-women in sports” is a workout for your gossip muscles. The trio of friends talk about bad coaches, being called dykes by rival teams, and sports moments that made them gay, and they say some funny and outrageous things. HV
murder in hollywood hills Wide range of weekly episodes available Christy Johnson was 21 when a man made a charming advances on her at a Los Angeles shopping mall, saying he was a film producer looking for the next Bond girl. He took her to a photo shoot in his sports car, but his girlfriend was never seen alive again. The series, hosted by NBC’s Keith Morrison, tells the story of women who band together to find and trap a smooth-talking predator. Holly Richardson
There’s a podcast for that
Quest love. Photo: Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust
this week, Ammar Kalia Our picks for the 5 best podcasts on hip hopfrom The Roots founder’s interviews with rap stars to Romesh Ranganathan’s ode to the genre.
questlove supreme Questlove, the Oscar-winning director and founder of the hip-hop group The Roots, has become something of a rap authority. His Instagram profile includes a treasure trove of tributes to lesser-known and recently deceased artists, while his series of podcasts asks living greats to share the highs and lows of their careers. I’m interviewing you about time. Eschewing the aimless chatter of other hip-hop celebrity podcasts, Questlove Supreme always brings selected anecdotes from his guests, keeping the content scholarly without losing its enthusiastic flair. Highlights include a deep dive into LL Cool J’s superstardom, the genius of producer J Dilla by writer Dan His Charnas, DJ Marley’s commentary on his ’80s hip-hop with Mar, and more. included.
Louder Than riot Hip-hop has existed for the past 50 years as an important means of social and political expression, alongside a reputation for excess and controversy. Louder Than a Riot explores how this vibrant artistry born in some of America’s most neglected communities is being policed, coinciding with the rise of mass incarceration and… is examining in detail whether they have expressed prejudice within their own ranks. Hosts Rodney Carmichael and Sidney Madden combine fascinating reporting and interviews to explore how rappers have often run afoul of the criminal justice system, before dissecting misogyny and homophobia within hip-hop. I’ll explore.
blog era Brothers Jeff and Eric Rosenthal host this fascinating series that dissects a niche but pivotal year in hip-hop history. After the birth of the Internet, but before the streaming era took off, blogs could make or break a rap artist, and the frenzied writing of blogs began to influence the very type of music that was made. Some people do. In “The Blog Era,” the Rosenthal brothers cover the music he made between 2007 and 2012 (after which SoundCloud became a dominant force), featuring appearances from J. Cole to Kid Cudi. It features people and depicts the fate of the editor who ran the site. .
dissect This long-running series from host Cole Cucina takes a break from the genre’s larger history and focuses on hip-hop one album at a time. In each series, by revealing the lyrics, music, and contextual information of a different record, Cucina draws on her songwriting training to explore how artists like Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West work on beats. It explores the details of the flow and explains the intent of the lyrics. Dissect has already covered everything from Lamar’s “To Pimp a Butterfly” to West’s “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” to Tyler, the Creator’s “Igor.” , an exhaustive but essential listening experience for existing fans, and an ideal entry point for casual listeners as well.
hip hop saved my life Hip-hop may have started out as a distinctly American genre, but 50 years after its creation, it now has a legacy that spans the globe. The series by comic Romesh Ranganathan takes a tongue-in-cheek yet encyclopedic approach to hip-hop fandom, exploring his love for hip-hop while interviewing British celebrities and artists. Masu. Grime star Kano talks about her uniquely British spin on the genre, Mercury Prize winner Little Simz talks about her rise as a woman in hip-hop, and the late Jamal Edwards talks about pioneering grime. He talked about the establishment of the platform SBTV.
Why not try it…
Chameleon: Gallery of Lies is a six-episode tale into a world of deceit, deceit, and the possibility of redemption.
The Mediator actor James Buckley and his wife Claire discuss the nitty-gritty details of marriage and non-negotiable relationships Both when sick and when healthy.
Professional wrestler Ashley Massaro died by suicide in 2019. Ashley vs WWE, Tracing the events leading up to her death and investigating allegations of abuse during her time at the company.
According to a study by Harvard Business in 2023, data breaches in the US have reached an “all-time high”, with a 20% increase in the first three quarters of 2023 compared to 2022. This trend was seen globally, with concentrated attacks in the UK, Australia, and Canada. In the Middle East, ransomware gang activity increased by 77% in the same year.
Exploring the dynamic global cybersecurity landscape gives us an understanding of the level of threats faced by countries worldwide.
In response, governments are implementing new laws and policies to safeguard data and infrastructure. Additionally, national Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and Cyber Instance Response Teams (CIRT) are being established, along with reporting channels for breaches.
ExpressVPN delves into the impact of cybercrime on individuals and economies in this blog post, highlighting which countries excel or lag in cybersecurity.
5 countries with the best cybersecurity
Earth in outer space with network connections and sunlight. (City Lights 2012 – Flat Map – https://images.nasa.gov/details-GSFC_20171208_Archive_e001589 – Software: 3dsMax, Adobe After Effects, Photoshop)
US
The United States has been a frontrunner in cybersecurity, but recent challenges like a real estate information leak in 2023, which exposed financial details of 1.5 billion individuals, have been concerning. In March 2023, the Biden administration introduced a national cybersecurity strategy focusing on safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Denmark
Denmark, with a high cybersecurity score of 92.6, faced a major cyberattack in 2023 by Russian hackers targeting 22 electricity companies, despite its Nordic region’s generally high cybersecurity rating.
England
The UK ranks 5th globally in cybersecurity and has initiated a cyber intelligence hub, the Cyber Coordination Centre, as part of its 2022 Cybersecurity Strategy to combat cyber threats.
Poland
Poland leads in cybersecurity readiness according to the National Cyber Security Index, attributing its success to public awareness campaigns and education about cyber threats.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, ranking second in the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index, has made significant strides in bolstering its cybersecurity infrastructure, spending $1.2 billion on cybersecurity education for young people.
Global cybersecurity: Which countries are failing?
System hacking warning alert on notebook (laptop). Cyber-attacks on computer networks, viruses, spyware, malware, or malicious software. Cybersecurity and Cybercrime. Compromised Information Internet.
Namibia
Namibia faces increased cyberattacks due to inadequate cybersecurity regulations and infrastructure, prompting calls for stronger network and data security measures.
Tajikistan
Central Asia, including Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, is vulnerable to cyber threats, with Tajikistan experiencing a high rate of malware attacks.
China
China, despite decent rankings, has a significant number of malware-infected mobile phones and IoT-based attacks originating from the country.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh struggles with cybersecurity, with a high percentage of malware-infected mobile devices and recent breaches exposing citizen data.
Iran
Iran faces major cybersecurity challenges, including a high rate of mobile phone infections with malware and vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure exposed through cyberattacks.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has recently published a detailed report titled Current status of global climate in 2023, which synthesizes the latest scientific knowledge on climate change from the past year.
This report contains significant findings that shed light on the impact of human-induced climate change on the Earth. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of reading through lengthy UN reports, fear not! We have highlighted some of the most fascinating and surprising discoveries for you.
1. Switzerland has lost 10 percent of its glaciers in the past two years
Glaciers are vital ecosystems formed when snow solidifies into ice in cold mountain regions. They flow slowly downhill, shaping the landscape as they move. Glaciers play a crucial role in the ecosystem by melting in the summer and nourishing rivers, providing essential water resources globally.
According to the WMO report, the unprecedented glacier loss in 2022-2023, primarily in North America and Europe, marks a record decline. Switzerland, in particular, has witnessed a distressing scenario with a 10 percent reduction in glacier volume over the past two years.
“The planet is warming, and the ice is melting, but seeing parts of the Alps lose 10 percent of their glacier volume in just two years is astonishing,” stated Professor Jonathan Bamber, Director of the Bristol Glaciology Center.
2. On any given day in 2023, a third of the oceans experienced a heatwave.
The record-breaking sea surface temperatures in Florida are just one example of ocean warming trends. The report highlights that a significant portion of the Earth’s stored energy since 1971 resides in the oceans, leading to increased heat content.
In 2023, ocean warming reached its highest level on record, with ocean heat content at a depth of 2,000 meters peaking. This trend is expected to persist for centuries, if not millennia.
As ocean temperatures rise, water expands and contributes to sea level rise. Ocean heatwaves are becoming more frequent, with marine heatwave coverage averaging 32 percent in 2023, compared to 23 percent in 2016.
3. The cost of inaction on climate change could be staggering.
Addressing climate change and adapting to its costs will require substantial investments. The WMO estimates that annual climate finance investments need to increase more than sixfold to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C, amounting to nearly $9 trillion by 2030 and an additional $10 trillion by 2050.
However, the report emphasizes that the cost of inaction would far exceed these figures. Failing to take action between 2025 and 2100 could incur a massive cost of $1,266 trillion.
The cost of inaction on climate change will exceed $1,000 trillion by 2100. – Image courtesy of Getty
Dr. David Lippin stressed the urgency of taking action, citing the report’s warning that inaction on climate change is more costly than proactive measures.
“The time to act is now, and the need for action is urgent,” emphasized Dr. Lippin, a professor at the School of Environmental Geography at York University.
4. Antarctic winter sea ice was 1 million km2 below the previous record
The vulnerable polar regions experienced unprecedented changes in Antarctica this year. The report revealed that Antarctic sea ice extent hit a record low in February.
While Antarctic sea ice typically peaks around September, it reached a record low this year, falling up to 1 million km2 below any previous level recorded – equivalent to the combined area of France and Spain.
Senior Researcher at the National Center for Atmospheric Science, Dr. Till Kuhlbrodt, described the findings as alarming, reflecting extreme climate and weather conditions unprecedented in modern records.
Despite these challenges, Professor Tina van de Flierdt, Head of Geosciences and Engineering at Imperial College London, emphasized the importance of immediate action to mitigate the loss of the West Antarctic ice sheet and reduce global emissions.
About our experts
Jonathan Bamber: A physicist specializing in Earth Observation data, particularly on the cryosphere. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications, he is recognized as a leading researcher in his field.
David Lippin: Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography at the University of York, focusing on glacier dynamics and ice sheet research using advanced techniques.
Till Kuhlbrodt: Senior Research Fellow at the University of Reading, leading models to support climate change mitigation efforts. His recent work on sea temperature extremes was published in the American Weather Society Bulletin.
Tina van de Flierdt: Dean of the School of Geosciences and Engineering at Imperial College London, with research interests in paleoceanography, paleoclimate, and Antarctic ice sheet dynamics.
British Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award has been won by a remarkable image of a football covered in invasive goose barnacles. Photographer Ryan Stoker’s images highlight the dangers of waste polluting our oceans and the impact on native wildlife.
“The soccer ball traveled across the Atlantic and ended up on the shores of Dorset,” Stoker explained. “Increased debris in the ocean could result in more organisms reaching our coasts, raising the risk of invasive species.”
The RSPB Young British Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024 Award was given to Max Wood for his evocative image of a coot crossing a misty lake at sunrise. This award aims to inspire young individuals to engage in wildlife conservation.
The British Wildlife Photographer of the Year showcases the diverse and stunning wildlife of Britain. The 2025 competition is now open for entries, welcoming photographers of all levels to submit their images.
Animal Behavior Category Runner-Up – Dancing in the Dark
A pair of Crested Grebes (Podiceps cristatus) Touch the beak of Killingworth, North Tyneside, England, United Kingdom.Photo credit: Matthew Glover/British Wildlife Photography Award
Coastal/Ocean Division Runner-up – Fire in the night
Fireworks anemone (Pachycerianthus mulplicatus) shows fluorescence in Loch Fyne, Scotland, UK. These sea anemones live in very still water and are sensitive to the slightest movement. When disturbed, they quickly withdraw.Photo by Dan Bolt/British Wildlife Photography Award
Black and White Category Winner – Raven on Alan
A crow flies high over the top of Goatfell, the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran in Scotland, UK.Photo by Robin Dodd/British Wildlife Photography Award
Winner of Botanical Britain – Little Forest Balloons
A group of slime molds (comatrica nigra) Photographed in Essex, England, United Kingdom. The width of each head of these fruiting bodies is approximately 1 mm.Photo by Jason McCombe/British Wildlife Photography Award
Habitat Category Winner – Tightrope Walker
Red fox (Vulpes Vulpes Vulpes) walks across tree branches in Sherwood Pines Forest Park, Nottinghamshire, England, United Kingdom.Photo by Daniel Valverde Fernandes/British Wildlife Photography Award
Runner-up in the urban wildlife category – what’s all the fuss about?
In this photo, the Arctic walrus (Odobenus rosmarus) is resting on a dock in the port of Scarborough, England, after landing.Photo by Will Palmer/British Wildlife Photography Award
Hidden UK Winner – Three’s a crowd
Three common blue butterflies (Polyommatus icarus) Photographed at Beeland Farm, Devon, England, United Kingdom.Photo by: Ross Hoddinott/British Wildlife Photography Award
Winner of the 12-14 year old category – Mother and Fawn
Mother and young roe deer (capreolus capreolus) Forest, Sherfield-on-London, England, United Kingdom.Photo credit: Felix Walker-Nix/British Wildlife Photography Award
Wild Forest Category Winner – Empty Beech
Beech crown (Beech) in East Lothian, Scotland, UK.Photo credit: Graham Niven/British Wildlife Photography Awards
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Urban Wildlife Category Winner – Day Walker
This bitch (Vulpes Vulpes Vulpes) began living in an electrical substation after being evicted from their parent’s territory of Bristol, England.Photo by Simon Withyman/British Wildlife Photography Awards
11 years old and under division winner Spring Treasure
pheasant(Fasianus colchicus) I’m sitting on a fence on a cold, foggy morning in Mid Wales, England.Photo by Jamie Smart/British Wildlife Photography Award
Habitat Category Runner-up – Crop Thief
brown rabbit (lepus europe) munching on crops in the evening in Nantwich, Cheshire, UK.Photo by Steven Allcock/British Wildlife Photography Awards
Botanical Bulletin Category Runner-up – Rainbow at Dawn
A type of bushy seaweed known as rainbow rack (Cystoseira Tamarisfolia) is below the water’s surface and photographed as the sun rises. Photographed in Falmouth, Cornwall, England.Photo by Martin Stevens/British Wildlife Photography Award
Hidden Britain runner-up – Daisy Danger
Flower crab spider (Mismena Vatia) and bees (Western honey bee) are very close together and both live in oxeye daisy flowers. This photo was taken on his A30 property in Devon, England, which has remained untouched for many years. This makes it a paradise for wildflowers and the wildlife that lives there.Photo credit: Lucien Harris/British Wildlife Photography Award
Winner of Animal Behavior Category – Three Frogs in amplexus
A trio of ordinary frogs (Lana Temporaria) floats on the surface of the water with its abdomen open. In this mating position, the male frog uses his legs to grab the female from behind. Photographed in Perthshire, Scotland, England.Photo by Ian Mason/British Wildlife Photography Award
Youth Division Overall Winner – Water Running
coot(Furika Atlas)Skip-fly over Frensham Little Pond in Surrey, England, United Kingdom.Photo by Max Wood/British Wildlife Photography Award
brown rabbit (lepus europe) looking straight into the camera in Nottinghamshire, England, United Kingdom.Photo by Spencer Burrows/British Wildlife Photography Award
Black and white category runner-up – squirrel silhouette
red squirrel (vulgaris ciirus) Taken during a jump in Cumbria, England, United Kingdom.Photo by Rosamund MacFarlane/British Wildlife Photography Award
Animal Portrait Winner – Starling at Night
Starling (vulgaris vulgaris) Garden, Solihull, West Midlands, England, UK.Photo credit: Mark Williams/British Wildlife Photography Award
Overall Winner – Ocean Drifter
Soccer ball covered with goose barnacles (chest) below the waterline. A soccer ball washed up on the coast of Dorset, England, after a voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. Barnacles are not native to the UK, but can be washed up on beaches during strong Atlantic storms.Photo credit: Ryan Stalker/British Wildlife Photography Award
In Sierra Greer’s novel Annie Bot, a female robot is created to be the perfect girlfriend for her owner.
alamy stock photo
From Adrian Tchaikovsky to Hao Jingfan to Natasha Pulley, many of the biggest names in science fiction are releasing new releases this month. We, the readers, can choose whether we want to peer into the ruins of an alien civilization, follow the possibility of the coming singularity and its aftermath, or enter the world of sex robots. To each of them, I would say, yes, please come join us. But I think it’s Stuart Turton’s new high-concept thriller that I’m most excited about. This thriller depicts crime and science fiction, with a murder taking place on an island surrounded by the fog that has destroyed the rest of the planet, and is one of my favorites. Blend.
If all these new titles aren’t enough to keep you busy this March, you might want to revisit Cixin Liu’s epic. three body problem, in anticipation of Netflix’s upcoming adaptation. Or please join us. new sciencet Book Club, I just started reading Martin McInnes’ novels Ascension in progress. The story from a mysterious trench at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean to deep space has just been published in paperback and is an amazing read.
Is Tchaikovsky single-handedly supporting the science fiction industry? I think he might be, since he’s really prolific and definitely brilliant. alien clay This novel, the first of two new novels to be published over the coming months, is set on the faraway world of Kiln, where the ruins of an alien civilization have been discovered. Professor Arton Dagdev, who has always wanted to study extraterrestrial life, is exiled to the Kiln for his political activities and has to work in a concentration camp. Can he uncover the world’s secrets before he is killed?
I’m a big Turton fan. I’ve loved his smart, high-concept murder mysteries ever since his debut. The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle From his latest historical crime novel. devil and dark water. His latest outings have a decidedly sci-fi tinge. The setting is a world destroyed by a murderous fog that has attacked the planet. The only thing that survives is the island, where 122 villagers and 3 scientists live happily together, until one of the scientists is found stabbed to death, when the island’s security system is degraded and the fog disappears. Everyone on the island will die as a result. It will take 107 hours if the murder case is not solved. That’s already a lot to accept, but everyone’s memories have also been wiped by the security system. Sounds complicated, but I believe Turton is great, so I’ll put it next on my list.
Mars is the setting for Natasha Pooley’s new novel
Pulley is a relatively recent discovery for me, ever since my mother finally convinced me to find time to read her historical and fantasy novels. Filigree Street Clockmaker (That made me happy). This latest installment is set after an environmental catastrophe. January, a refugee from Earth who is now a second-class citizen on Mars because her body has not yet adapted to low gravity, enters into a marriage of convenience with xenophobic Martian politician Aubrey Gale. However, Aubrey Gale turns out to be very different from their methods. Featured in Mars news. I love a good romance combined with his sci-fi setting, so this is a must-read for me.
2054: Novel Written by Elliot Ackerman and James Stavridis
Mr. Stavridis is not just a novelist, but also former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Admiral James Stavridis.He and Ackerman are bestselling authors 2034. In this follow-up study, 20 years after the U.S. Nuclear War, the president of the United States collapsed and died while addressing the nation. Conspiracy theories spread and civil war breaks out. Meanwhile, computer scientists and intelligence experts believe they know what’s behind the assassination: a major advance in AI. This sounds thrilling and provocative, and is something you should devote a fair amount of your time to reading.
Hugo Award-winning Jing Fan’s new sci-fi thriller is set in a future where a mysterious, highly intelligent alien race comes into contact. His three scientists, unconvinced that aliens are a threat, join forces to thwart a potentially disastrous military response.
Our science fiction columnist Emily Wilson gives this novel very high praise.It is said to be perfect for fans of never let me go and my dark vanessa, which I definitely count among them, is the story of Anniebot, a female robot created to be the perfect girlfriend for her owner, Doug. The problem is that she’s starting to think about what she really wants from her life.
high voltage Written by Chris Sugden and Jen Sugden
By the author of the podcast drama series victorio city, this novel is described as perfect for fans of Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams – Hello, it’s me. The setting is 1887 “Even Greater London,” an “urban plane” that covers the entire lower half of England, where Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s “Legion of Engineers” builds and destroys anything they deem necessary. There is. Meanwhile, Archibald Fleet and Clara Entwistle establish the country’s first private detective agency and take on a series of impossible bank robberies that keep the police busy and one kidnapping case after another.
This first contact novel is a sequel to Johnston’s novel. space between us Then we see the alien Enceladon disappearing into the water off the west coast of Scotland. I would like to start with the first one in this series.I highly value Johnston as a crime writer (his Skefus The series is peppered with morbid black humor, so I’d love to try out some of his science fiction work as well.
This cyberpunk satire sounds like fun. Following on from the TV sensation whose title is the novel, the next season will take place in the neo-medieval state organization “Inner Azure”, where the country has been (by its own choice) separated from the rest of the world for almost a century. It has been blocked off…until now. To entertain viewers around the world, the show’s producers must assemble a group of misfits who try to run the country.
Adam Malek’s third collection of short stories explores plant-based skyscrapers, a zombie apocalypse, how time dilation affects marriages, as well as reluctant sex robots and the terrible parenting skills of a billionaire space industrialist. is promised to us.
The history of science is filled with moments of discovery, those “Eureka” moments when a theory is proven or a breakthrough is achieved. The latest image competition at Great Ormond Street Hospital, titled ‘A Moment of Discovery’, celebrates these breakthroughs.
Staff from Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (GOSH) and its partners have submitted images capturing significant milestones in research. The public voted on the three most popular images shortlisted by a panel of experts via social media.
The shortlisted images range from colorful micrographs to cartoon illustrations, offering a glimpse into the research conducted at GOSH. It is hoped that this research will lead to new treatments for rare and complex conditions, transforming the lives of children and young people with serious illnesses.
The winning image, taken by PhD student Giada Benedetti at the Zayed Pediatric Rare Disease Research Center (ZCR), shows exploding intestinal organoids revealing their inner workings.
Organoids are small three-dimensional tissue cultures derived from stem cells that can mimic different organs like the heart and liver in the human body.
In honor of Rare Disease Day on February 29, all winning and shortlisted images will be displayed at an event at the Zayed Pediatric Rare Disease Research Center.
Selected as a finalist – my lungs are on fire
These lung “mini-organs,” or organoids, were grown from stem cells to replicate the complexity of lungs. The image showcases cell nuclei in blue, cell membranes in red, and moving hair-like structures called cilia in yellow/orange. Photo courtesy of Giuseppe Cala at GOSH.
Shortlist – Active Glial Cells
The image showcases nerve helper cells, known as glial cells, with long fibrous structures that transport nutrients and oxygen to surrounding nerve cells. Photo courtesy of Lucien Bonfante at GOSH.
Finalist – Light of Life
The image shows the spinal cord of a zebrafish embryo with different neurons generated through asymmetric division. Photo courtesy of Atachapon Theppichaiyanond at GOSH.
OnePlus' latest top smartphone can't shake the feeling of being left behind by its rivals.
The OnePlus 12 has a sleek look, fast software, and long battery life, but it lacks the much-touted AI tools built into devices from the likes of Samsung and Google. It feels more like a 2020 cell phone than a new era of artificial intelligence.
This may appeal to those looking for a pared-down, relatively clean experience. Its price of £849 (€969/$799) is also less than its £1,000 full-featured rival. But by modern standards, it feels lacking.
The curved glass and aluminum sides make the phone narrower than its competitors, but the OnePlus 12 is still a very large phone. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The design is very similar to last year's OnePlus 11 (which cost £120 less at launch), a sleek metal and glass sandwich that feels as slick as it looks. The huge 6.82-inch OLED screen is crystal clear, smooth, and very bright. The large circular camera bump on the back is a standout design element, along with the fan-favorite alert slider on the side.
Inside the OnePlus is Qualcomm's latest top Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which is 30% faster and 20% more power efficient than its predecessor. This is a very powerful chip that is only found in a small number of new cell phones.
The OnePlus certainly feels fast and smooth in normal operation, but to get maximum performance, i.e. running at full tilt, you'll need to enable the “High Performance” mode embedded in the settings, or when playing games. must be used in mode. The phone is therefore tuned more for power efficiency than raw performance, resulting in extremely long battery life.
It lasts 52-55 hours between charges, and the default settings provide over 9 hours of active screen use. This is significantly longer than last year’s model, making it the best in the industry. OnePlus also charges very fast, reaching 100% within 30 minutes using his included 100W charger.
The aluminum frame has curved corners, but the top and edges of the phone are flat. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
specification
screen: 6.82 inch 120Hz QHD+ OLED (510ppi)
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 3rd generation
Ram: 12 or 16GB
storage: 256 or 512GB
operating system: OxygenOS 14 (Android 14)
sustainability
Oxygen OS 14
OxygenOS is generally smooth to use with a reasonable amount of customization, but it is noticeably lacking in advanced smart features. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The phone runs OxygenOS 14, a modified version of the latest Android 14 software. Overall it's very polished, with plenty of customization options covering everything from gestures, the look and feel of the software, and various multitasking tools. But it lacks the AI tools and smart systems that have become the mainstay of rivals in both the Android camp and his iPhone camp.
electoral dysfunction Wide range of weekly episodes available
Sky News politician and poker star Beth Rigby is sandwiched between Conservative MP Ruth Davidson and Labor MP Jess Phillips in this promising new podcast leading into a ‘prolific election year’. What voters want, leadership, and the sorry state of things are all on the table. This trio offers a refreshing change from the usual daddy cast, valuing heart and insight over political point-scoring. There’s also a story about Priti Patel’s kindness… Hannah Verdier
tard cast Widely available, on sale now “A lot of people actually wanted to listen to the podcast…and you mostly know why.” Joe Lycett announced the poop pod as a campaign prank against sewage leaks, but Gary Lineker’s Thanks to demand for more details on World Cup poop, it’s now actually here. It’s so funny that it makes your stomach hurt, and it also includes the shocking revelation that “Gaza was often left alone in the public bath.'' Holly Richardson
Indira Varma. Photo: Suki Dhanda/Observer
A tiger tamer who went out to sea Wide range of weekly episodes available Victorian superstar Bob Carlyle was fired from the circus for drunkenly walking a tiger around town on a leash, but at least he had the stamina of a pushcart to get back on his feet. This isn’t your typical history podcast where Dave his Dr. Musgrove chronicles Carlisle’s very interesting life.HV
significant other Wide range of weekly episodes available Our new series of podcasts about lesser-known figures in history begins with the story of Peggy Shippen. History books remember American Revolutionary War general Benedict Arnold for switching allegiance, but in reality it was his wife who motivated the rebellion. Host Liza Powell O’Brien examines how “America’s Most Handsome Woman” influenced events. HV
The Spy Who… Wide range of weekly episodes available starting Tuesday Indira Varma (pictured above) hosts a dive into “a dank, murky world full of dark corners, sinister motives and rotten morals” occupied by spies. The first is the story of Dusko Popov, the spy whose playboy ways inspired Ian Fleming’s James Bond. The scenes from that time are dramatically recreated, making it irresistibly cinematic. HV
There’s a podcast for that
Twelve boys and their coach rescued from a cave in Thailand have mourned the loss of a former Navy SEAL who died while taking part in the mission. Photo: AFP/Getty Images
From escaping a grizzly bear attack to a 2018 cave rescue in Thailand. Ella Braidwood Choose 5 podcasts about survival stories
vice versa
Since 2021, Against the Odds has been exploring some of the most famous survival stories from past and present. Adventurers Mike Corley and Kathy de Pecol take turns hosting each story, each told in detail over several episodes. The podcast is based on historical research, but dramatizations are used to bring headline-grabbing stories to life. For example, there is a five-part series about the 2018 cave rescue in Thailand, and a four-part series about the famous Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571 crash in 1972, when 16 people were forced into the Andes Mountains. He survived for 72 days in the camp. He turns to cannibalism.
real survival story The weekly podcast, narrated by actor John Hopkins, launched this year and explores stories of “ordinary people forced into extraordinary circumstances.” Hopkins is a smooth storyteller, and his musings are deftly interspersed with audio excerpts from the survivors themselves. Among those featured is a paraglider caught in a storm. A prospector trapped in a gold mine 100 feet underground. and a couple caught in a wildfire while on vacation. Background music adds suspense, and stories are drawn from around the world, including the Rocky Mountains, Hawaii, and New Zealand.
special live While it’s not just about survival stories, this podcast focuses on the amazing stories of people who have overcome extraordinary circumstances. In each episode, LADbible’s former creative director, Ben Powell-Jones, sits down with an interviewee and reveals what happened to them. Mr. Powell-Jones has a calm demeanor that allows his interviewees to speak candidly about their experiences. Video footage for each episode is available at: YouTube. Highlights include an interview with journalist Sean Langan, who was taken hostage by the Taliban;Park Ji Hyun person who fled from North Korea And now I live in the UK. and Nick Yarris, who was wrongly convicted of murder and spent 22 years on death row.
out alive Backpacker Magazine’s biweekly podcast features short episodes featuring outdoor tips from experts, interspersed with inspiring survival stories. The episodes, hosted by editor Louisa Albanese, tell stories of people who have survived amazing events, from a man who fell 50 feet into a hidden ice cave to a runner who became stranded after falling on a trekking pole. We are featuring interviews. Some of the brief episodes debunk some of the most common questions about survival, and others about the rise in bear attacks. Transcript too You can read it online.
not today Since launching their podcast in 2020, husband and wife team Steph Fitt and Alex Hunt have grown their following. Features It was in the top 1% of most followed podcasts on Spotify last year. Hosted by Fit and Hunt, this podcast features recent and more historical survival stories. In one episode, Fit tells listeners about Lydia Tillman. Her brave escape led to her conviction. travis forbes In 2011, he was charged with crimes against her and the murder of Kenya Monge. A more historical episode is the one about the Titanic.The other is about entertainers Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Horn, the latter of whom was once attacked by a tiger on stage.
sound off Conversation with Katie Henriksen features deep conversations that explore creativity at the intersection of art, music, and literature.
A mix of comedy, tragedy, and everything in between. possession Focuses on the world of professional sports ownership with former NBA player Rex Chapman.
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TThe internet is a place rife with drug addicts and scammers. It has become a completely godless organization, with only a narcissistic malevolent actor at its helm. Honest people come here to lie, but liars come here to be honest. We have to go off-grid and destroy what has become man’s fifth limb because we fear our children will become mentally fragile. They adore skividi toilets, Rachel Finally, we confirmed that idolatry is an unforgivable sin.
Actually, I don’t care. And I just changed my mind too.
Look, you can do that on the internet. You can also share your lived experiences on the internet. How wonderful! And the thing about lived experience is that you can completely make it up – how beautiful. today? I’m Irish and Italian. I’m a DJ. And I’m a total vibe terrorist. tomorrow? A farmer with a missing child. A loving father who lives secretly in Ozempic. Revolutionary. yesterday? broken. lost. club girl hyena. Rabbit rabbit.
So bring your beautiful beluga blue eyes here, hold my hand, and let’s walk together.
1. Who cleans your toilet?
At the kick-on, you say something you think is genius, everyone goes completely silent, breakout rooms form, and suddenly you chain-smoker an entire box of Double Happiness and consider quitting drinking. You’ll know when you’re doing it. Is it really a big way? This video is like that. This captures the experience of saying something completely out of line and immediately falling victim to the reaction. I titled this my Monday monologue after an eventful weekend and waking up in the morning to receive several essay messages about my actions. Homework for therapists.
2. Ed Hardy Fashion Show, Sydney, 2009
Before Uber came along and ruined that, we were horseback riding. And Sydney was once the place where risk-taking kings were crowned. All we know now is a nude beach and a new airport next to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Oh, how empires fall! At 5:30, a group of models will dance to Sydney Samson’s Riverside. black jesus amen fashion!
Wide range of weekly episodes available “Themes are for cowards,” says the outspoken host of this new freeform chat series with three Glaswegian comedy buddies, Frankie Boyle, Susie McCabe and Christopher MacArthur Boyd. There are frank discussions about the ethics of sex with Tories, whether Billy Connolly would have been radicalized had he grown up in the internet age, and whether Boyle’s date with a “neo-Nazi” constituted sexual assault. There is a high possibility that it will develop into love. Alexi Duggins
Wide range of weekly episodes available Delve into the delusions of Daily Mail readers’ brains in this witty, high-spirited piece, where you hear celebrity guests comment on the news stories they’ve covered and guess which one it’s related to. I’ll try. Our first guest is Dani Dyer, who talks about his father’s love of Chinese restaurants, babysitting Keira Knightley and blow-drying fake eyelashes on Love Island. advertisement
Wide range of weekly episodes available Before his death, American filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich was working on an interview podcast. Now, thanks to his ex-wife and collaborator Louise Stratten, the work has seen the light of day. The guest list is impressive, with Quentin Tarantino, Guillermo del Toro, Greta Gerwig, Julie Delpy and more talking about other greats in filmmaking. Hannah Verdier
‘Themes are for cowards’…Frankie Boyle (pictured) has launched a new podcast with Susie McCabe and Christopher MacArthur-Boyd. Photo: Paul Hansen/Observer
I I experience existential fear in three situations. The first is when I meet people. “Fat penguin,” I blurted out. It breaks the ice. The second situation is when someone asks me to name the 10 funniest things he's seen on the Internet. Third, we must recognize that by 2030, climate change will be irreversible and more than 1 million species will be at risk of extinction. In other words, it's not just fat penguins that break the ice even when they're alive.
But that doesn't matter now. The key is to edit the content that loops endlessly in your head. This is where I bring up existential fear number two. have fun.
1. Notice, Senpai, notice!
This guy certainly wants attention, but it's not clear from whom.
You say, “It will be or it won't be,'' but I say, “I hope his eyes look at me and my loyalty is recognized. Realize, Senpai, realize.'' This monologue is, Better than anything Shakespeare could have come up with. It's also a great reference for anyone looking to write science fiction dialogue.
2. Who brings the baby into the mosh pit?
It takes a village to raise a child and it is said that strangers went to great lengths to bring this child to THE Flo Rida. There are many questions, including why the baby was in the mosh in the first place. Why didn't I know the words? What is that retrograde? I can't believe this random baby accomplished one of my bucket list goals before me.
Late fragment Wide range of weekly episodes available This introspective and thoughtful show interviews people in their 80s about politics, religion, sex and money. Its outstanding line-up includes Neil Kinnock, Miriam and Margolyes, and Proulis. The first episode of our latest series is a wide-ranging conversation with humanitarian Terry Waite. This is a thoughtful look at his homelessness situation, his economic situation, and what it was like to spend his five years in chains and in total solitary confinement. Alexi Duggins
drink champion Wide range of weekly episodes available If you're looking for a quick listen, the latest episode of this loud, alcohol-filled series isn't for you. But if he has more than three hours to spend in conversation with the likes of Grandmaster Flash and Ludacris (below) with his MC Noah and DJ EFN of Hip Hop, it's a lively laugh into the Golden Age of Hip Hop. It will be a journey filled with. advertisement
Ludacris, Guest of Drink Champs. Photo: Mario Anzuoni/Reuters
real black history Wide range of weekly episodes available Francesca Ramsey and Conscious Lee shed light on the lesser-known figures who have shaped black culture beyond Martin Luther King Jr., and engage in many fascinating discussions. The excellent first episode focuses on the women of the Black Panther Party, including Assata Shakur, a fugitive targeted by the FBI who maintains her innocence. Hannah Verdier
hidden 20% Wide range of weekly episodes available A neurodivergent mind can lead to great creativity, as evidenced by Seedlip entrepreneur Ben Brunson, who was diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult. He currently hosts a podcast to change people's perceptions of his 20% who don't fit the neurotypical classification. Guests including actor Kit Harington, vocal coach Carey Grant, and athlete Adele Tracy will bring their insights. HV
A history of curbing enthusiasm Wide range of weekly episodes available After 23 years, the final series of Curb has just begun. That's why two of its stars, Jeff Garlin and Susie Essman, are celebrating with a rewatch podcast that rewinds it all the way to the beginning. In fact, in the first episode, Larry David talks about pre-pilot development. A must-listen for avid fans. Holly Richardson
There's a podcast for that
Mary Robinson, host of Mothers of Invention. Photo: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian
this week, nima job Our picks for the 5 best podcasts on climate crisisfrom the positive changes we can make as individuals to combat the crisis, to the impact on Indigenous communities.
Pre-drilled From award-winning investigative journalist Amy Westervelt's exclusive season focusing on Namibia's growing oil reserves to Guyana's oil boom that is creating more economic uncertainty for the general public (not to mention rising sea levels) , which delves into the most pressing issues surrounding the climate crisis. . Amy explores the complexities that arise when a country faces both climate change and poverty simultaneously.
mothers of invention In this fascinating podcast, Mary Robinson (above), Ireland's first female president, shares the microphone with comedian Maeve Higgins and series producer Timari Kodikara. The all-female case leaves no room for debate as to whether men are primarily responsible for the climate crisis. Each episode spotlights a heroic brown, black, and indigenous woman taking on the challenges facing our planet. The trio also give airtime to concerns young people have about how the climate crisis will affect their future prospects. The show features a wide range of guests, from female climate change activists like Diara Tucano to U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders.
I'm curious about the climate If you're feeling confused and unprepared to discuss the climate crisis and its potential impact on your life, this TEDxLondon podcast hosted by Mariam Pasha and Ben Hurst is perfect for you. It's a learning tool. The show demystifies unfamiliar climate terminology, dissects climate issues with expert interviews, celebrates Pride, explores queer ecology, and explores intersex birds and transsexual fish. shed light on the world.
climate of change Climate of Change doesn't have a huge back catalogue, but its six episodes make for a short and sweet listening experience. Guests include Hollywood veteran Cate Blanchett and clean energy economy entrepreneur Danny Kennedy, as well as Prince William, fashion activist Livia Firth and Don't Look Up director Adam McKay. Appear. Despite highlighting the dire challenges facing our planet, this podcast maintains an optimistic tone while providing insight into the important work being done.
good together Hosted by sustainability expert Laura Alexander Wittig, this podcast gives listeners the tools to make a difference in mitigating the climate crisis. In each weekly episode, she learns about terms like “circular economy” and discovers practical tips for incorporating eco-friendly habits into your daily life. Wittig covers a wide range of topics, from sustainable spring cleaning to the environmental impact of her streaming services. If you want to contribute to positive change, this is the perfect podcast to inspire you to channel your inner climate hero.
For more Guardian reporting on the environment and the climate crisis, sign up here to receive the Down to Earth newsletter every Thursday.
Why not try it…
collection of memories This production takes you on a journey across Canada, from a Viking-era Norse settlement in Newfoundland to the ruins of a sacred Haida village in Gwaii Harnas. Each episode explores new locations and stories that help us understand our complicated past.
Comedians Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Eshild Sears travel across Wales, sampling local food and drink, famous landmarks and talking to local characters. pod of wales.
in Small efforts are prohibitedIn , theologian and professor Lee C. Camp, along with guests including actor Martin Sheen, examines what makes a good life possible.
If you want to read the full newsletter, subscribe to receive Listen Here in your inbox every Thursday.
MThe most memorable examples of the internet are the piracy from LimeWire and Kazaa. It felt so cool to download Guido Hatzis albums and Adam Sandler CD rips. some shitty car But I wanted more. A friend warned me that LimeWire has some crazy porn and that I should be careful because I could get into a lot of trouble if I downloaded it stupidly. I hated being patronized. I still do. That’s why I decided the next day to stake my claim and fearlessly pirate a TV show just to brag to my friends.
I snuck into my family computer, opened LimeWire, and searched for a random sitcom starring Ryan Reynolds, Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place. By then I had become an Internet pro, so I only typed the first half of the title. two men and one woman. I clicked on download. Long story short, my friends were right.
The internet is cool, funny, and scary. Here’s a list of other cool, funny, and scary things:
1. K’s Cooking
I’ve never seen anyone cook so badly. Every video is a work of art as well as a treasure trove of comedy. Either Kay is blissfully unaware that she’s a bad cook, or she’s an Andy Kaufman-level comedic genius. It’s another thing to have rice that’s too dry or too sticky, but Kei managed to burn the risotto black. Finally, she lets her son Lee judge her own food, and the way he munches on this risotto makes me chuckle every time.
2. He looks like Bella Ramsey
The more I look at the photo this tweet refers to, the more I laugh. Doesn’t add anything to the social commentary the original image is clearly trying to encourage, but at the same time makes a bit of an impact? In a diagonal sense? i dunno. Let’s not dissect this frog. I think she looks like Bella Ramsey.
3. Graham Barrett
Graham Barrett is a very good character comedian. You can tell he’s spent hundreds of hours with people like the ones he painted. I also love how much effort he puts into these sketches. I have nothing against low-effort, uproarious comedy. I have a lot of friends who have made careers out of it. Please do what you have to do. On the other hand, it’s always great when you come across an account like Barrett’s that is a little bit more exciting, whatever that means.
4. Beebo
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Vivo always makes me laugh. Firstly, he’s a British food influencer and that’s already hilarious. Also, he basically eats the same thing. He’s British, so his meals almost always come with chips. Another thing I like is his catchphrase. He keeps saying, “Make your ______ bigger.” He tries to give props about the country of origin of the food, but is either too broad or just wrong.
For example, he eats any dish with rice and says, “Good luck Asians.” Or you might say “Good luck Asians” while eating Nando’s. My favorite of his catchphrases is, “You know the rules. If you don’t, make sure you know them.” The genius is that Beavo never states the rules, so it’s fun to watch the comments and watch people try to guess the rules. Something like:
Rule 1: Don’t bite. Swallow food quickly.
Rule 2:Ketchup on everything.
Rule 3:No matter what you’re eating, hot chips should be part of your diet.
Rule 4: Make everything bigger.
Anyway, cheer up Beavo and cheer up Asians.
5. Redfern Electrical
John Cruikshank and Luke Smith are at it again. Their mockumentary Redfern Electrical depicts a semi-fictional version of Cruickshank, a stand-up comedian turned electrician. He’s a little thin, but he has a genius plan to make money. Cruikshank has an entertaining and enviable comedic brain and I can’t wait for the next episode.
I
Is it a phone call? Is it a tablet? A new group of folding devices, with phone-like screens on the outside and large displays that open like books on the inside, are vying to appeal to consumers who want the best of both worlds.
Each is better in different parts of the equation, but which one is better overall? I tested the most promising devices in a round-by-round contest to find the foldable phone champion. Ta.
contestants
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 – Category Definer, now in its 5th generation
Google Pixel Fold – Android manufacturer’s first attempt at a foldable smartphone
one plus open – A first for the brand, built on parent company Oppo’s 3rd generation technology
Honor Magic V2 – The third generation foldable model will be available in Europe from the end of January
The outer screen is important for phone-type uses such as messaging and calling, but it varies greatly from device to device. From left to right: Honor Magic V2, OnePlus Open, Google Pixel Fold, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The dimensions of the outer screen make a big difference in how much the folder resembles a phone, and is where the devices differ the most.
The Z Fold 5’s outer screen is long and narrow, making typing uncomfortable. The Pixel Fold is short and stubby, so the keyboard is full width, but the apps are a little short and stubby. The Open and Magic V2 are more phone-like and much easier to fold and use.
winner: Honor Magic V2 – The thinnest, most phone-like experience available.
When it opens like a book, the large screen inside takes center stage. Top left to bottom right: Honor Magic V2, Google Pixel Fold, OnePlus Open, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian
The size and shape of the inner screen is a bit more consistent between brands. The OnePlus and Honor are the most square when unfolded, while the others are slightly longer on one side, similar to the iPad’s display.
Similarly, all screens have high refresh rates and are crisp and bright. Some products are better at preventing fingerprints and glare from lights, while others, like those from Samsung, support stylus input.
The big difference is the feel of the screen under your fingers and the visibility of the crease in the center of the screen. The Z Fold 5 has the most solid-feeling screen, but the Open has less noticeable creases than the others.
winner: OnePlus Open – Less noticeable creases and the smoothest feel.
Apple overtook Samsung as the world’s top smartphone seller, ending the South Korean tech company’s 12-year reign as the industry leader.
According to statistics from International Data Corporation (IDC), iPhone sold 234.6 million units in 2023, overtaking Samsung’s 226.6 million units.
IDC said Apple’s laurels with the launch of the iPhone 15 in September were due to trends such as the growing popularity of high-end devices, which now account for more than 20% of the market.
“The last time a company other than Samsung topped the smartphone market was in 2010, and in 2023, it is now Apple,” IDC said. “A sort of change in power at the top in the largest consumer electronics market was propelled by Apple’s record market share, putting it on top for the first time.”
The $2.8 trillion (£2.2 trillion) US tech company had a 20.1% market share, ahead of Samsung’s 19.4%, according to IDC. Apple has established itself as the largest smartphone maker in terms of sales and profits, but this is the first time it has led the market in terms of unit sales.
The sales data was released ahead of the launch of Samsung’s latest models on Wednesday, with the South Korean conglomerate expected to launch the Galaxy S24, S24 Plus and S24 Ultra with features powered by artificial intelligence.
Ben Wood, principal analyst at research firm CCS Insight, said the IDC data was a “mental” blow to Samsung, but he expected the competition to remain close this year.
“While I think it will remain a close race throughout 2024, there is little doubt that Apple is on a strong trajectory, and the loyalty that consumers have for Apple devices will continue to grow once they are acquired,” he said. This means that they rarely switch to something else.”
Wood said this data further emphasizes the importance of Samsung’s new product announcements on Wednesday.
“This means Samsung needs to do everything it can to not only attract new customers for its devices, but also to retain existing users.”
IDC also pointed to the increasing fragmentation of the smartphone market running on the Android operating system, citing low-end Samsung rivals such as Transsion, Xiaomi, Honor and Google.
IDC said the success of Huawei products, which were well-received in China, also contributed to Samsung’s sales decline. The data provider added that Huawei remains a competitive threat to Apple in China, the US company’s biggest market.
Global smartphone shipments fell 3.2% to 1.17 billion units in 2023, according to IDC, but the group said the industry is recovering after a downturn.
IDC added: “Growth in the second half of this year solidified the recovery expected in 2024.”
Last week, Apple was overtaken by Microsoft as the world’s most valuable company at $2.9 trillion.
I
He grew up in an era when preadolescent friendships were formed by huddled around a desktop computer and watching YouTube video after YouTube video. unicorn charlie (It was more interesting than I remembered) and harry potter puppet friends (It was less funny than I remember) It was considered the height of comedy. Other than the occasional 6pm viewing of ‘Australia’s Funniest Home Videos’, my comedy diet was limited to his 240p internet videos, passed around like schoolyard contraband.
I have to admit that not much has changed. I still spend a lot of time on the internet, and my friends and I constantly quote obscure pop culture references that have become memes. Sometimes I worry that this has rotted my brain. For now, I will carefully select videos that I found interesting.
1. Would you like to be a guest?
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I love musical theater! I love the thrill of secondary embarrassment! I literally gasped every time I watched this video. Performers, Tay Martinwas involved in 24 hoursbeauty and the beastThe Musical – Casting, direction, costumes and memorization were all done in one day. result? unstable.
2. Shawn Mendes' anxiety failure
This clip of Shawn Mendes 2019 interview It shouldn’t be this funny, but it is. It’s in his choice of words, the way he speaks, and the interviewer’s half-second silence.
3. Homosexuals, straight people, and people in between.
Almost every clip of Tyra Banks feels like a fever dream to me. Making viewers wear slogan T-shirts on national television that color-coded their sexuality? The ’00s were wild. As someone who doesn’t like being in the middle, I appreciate your half-hearted support.
4. Tour of Myra Magdalen's room
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OK, this video is simply iconic. I think about that (and Jimmy Neutron’s father) a lot. For those who don’t know, Myra Magdalene is a TikTok creator and designer who is known for posing in chaotic handmade outfits in front of a wall of keyboards. Here, she takes us on a tour of her bedroom. This is no ordinary bedroom vlog and she is no ordinary girl. You’ll find out soon.
5. I really appreciate it.
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Who among us has not burst into tears or muttered to ourselves at the dinner table? As a water sign, this is relatable, nay, ambitious. Gratitude Diary is afraid of this boy.
6. How to become the #1 fake restaurant on TripAdvisor
If there’s one thing our modern society lacks, it’s a good prank. We need more pranks! Author and filmmaker Uber Butler spent eight months creating a fake restaurant in a bid to steal the number one spot for London’s restaurant on TripAdvisor. This mini-documentary about him is both silly and wise.
'Groundbreaking': Carrie-Anne Moss and Keanu Reeves in The Matrix
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I Professor of Physics at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia He is also the author of 18 popular science books. Although my training was in theoretical physics, particularly the discovery and interpretation of unusual solutions to Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity, I remained a lifelong admirer of his science fiction and fascinated by the phenomena of physics in culture. I'm here. In my latest book, The charm of the multiverse, I apply my experience and interests to the study of scientific debates and popular beliefs surrounding the concepts of parallel worlds and separate parts of reality. Here's a chronological list of my 10 favorite movies on the subject. Each one has been chosen to be thought-provoking and interesting.
It's a wonderful life (1946)
Beyond the key aspects of this issue Christmas classic There are lies worth chewing through, including the question of what the world would be like if we didn't exist. In theoretical physics, the hypothetical anthropic principle cuts off from all reality the realm of possibility that ultimately leads to the conscious observer. Sadly, unlike the film's protagonist George Bailey, we don't have guardian angels to tell us what the universe would be like without humanity. But maybe, in George's spirit, we recognize the fact that we exist as sentient beings on a fragile planet and take that responsibility seriously.
back to the future (1985)
Children dream of changing their parents. Thanks to the mysterious powers of the time-traveling DeLorean, Marty McFly inadvertently does just that. In physics, the feasibility of backward time travel is debatable. Could it be that the paradoxes caused by voyages into the past, such as acts that prevent the creation of time travelers, make them impossible? Marty's Voyage to 1955 He almost prevents his parents from falling in love until he finds a way to convince them. He returns to his 1985 present and finds himself in a parallel reality. His parents are much cooler there. Such a multiverse avoids paradox and gives hope to teenagers.
marmot day (1993)
In quantum physics, reality is a mixture of different particle histories. It's as if the inhabitants of a subatomic world need to try every possibility to make things right. Eastern philosophy similarly emphasizes that reincarnation ultimately leads to perfection. Similarly, funny movies, weatherman Phil Connors seems doomed to repeat the same terrible day over and over again until he sheds his self-centered attitude and becomes more sensitive to others. Along the way, he not only found love, but experienced enough time to master French, ice sculpting, and piano. Thanks to a kind of repeating multiverse, he contains a large number of things.
“Contains a large number of people”: Bill Murray in Groundhog Day
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12 Monkees (1995)
Partly inspired by great things, La Jetée, 12 Monkees It offers plotlines like twisted knots of wire. But does it constitute a single coherent chain, or does it contain loose parts?The protagonist, James Cole, travels back in time from his imaginary 21st century to his 1990s. and tries to gather clues about the origins of a devastatingly deadly pandemic. Although his superiors stress that the past cannot be changed, he sometimes appears to be influencing reality, but only in the face of reality's resilience. His hopes that he can prevent the catastrophe eventually fade, but there are hints of an alternative even in the final scene.
“A surprising juxtaposition of fate”: Gwyneth Paltrow's “Sliding Doors”
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sliding door (1998)
Have you ever missed a train by just a few seconds and cursed the time you lost? But if that delay resulted in an accident being avoided, it would seem more like a blessing. Brilliantly, through the magic of cinema, we see both parts of the many worlds in which the main character, Helen, misses and misses the subway. In the former case, the girlfriend was unable to witness her boyfriend cheating on her and continues to pretend that she didn't know. In the latter, she witnessed the incident and immediately met Mr. Right. However, both elements have something in common that ultimately points the way to a surprising juxtaposition of fate.
Run, Laura, run (1998)
If two versions of reality aren't enough, try three.in This seminal German film, fate gave Laura three chances to save her boyfriend, who had lost a huge amount of cash and needed it to carry out the mission of a crime boss. Each time, she somehow obtains her booty and takes 20 minutes to run across the city with it to her frenetic lover. Reflecting the butterfly effect of chaos theory, small discrepancies can lead to vastly different results. Her first two attempts prove fatal, but the third is the charm. This film shows that our passion for the multiverse reflects our desire for multiple opportunities in life.
matrix (1999)
Movies allow us to imagine entirely new worlds. Artificial intelligence strengthens that illusion. Imagine if an incredibly powerful and malicious electronic entity exploited our ability to be fooled and created a false world for us to experience life. All the while, it sucked energy from our bodies for its own evil purposes.of The film's groundbreaking sci-fi plot And special effects remain relevant to today's debates about AI capabilities and threats. Some thinkers speculate that the observable universe is a simulation. If that were the case, screenwriters elsewhere in the multiverse would win Academy Awards for the most original screenplays.
“The Haunting”: Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Donnie Darko
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donnie darko (2001)
One of the most profound mysteries in theoretical physics is the concept of wormholes. A wormhole is a hypothetical connection between disparate sectors of the universe. Theorists have derived a wormhole solution to Einstein's general theory of relativity and demonstrated how it could potentially be used as a time machine. In reality, no one knows how to assemble the extraordinary amount of mass needed to create such an object, including a special negative mass component called “exotic matter.” Nevertheless, they serve as effective plot devices. this unforgettable movie The story of a troubled teenager who
TNext year's tech industry will be dominated by a new era of spatial computing brought about by upgrades to everything from cathoppers to binoculars to cars, devices that disappear into your home, including transparent TVs, and even very expensive goggles. right.
These are the predictions from the annual CES technology show in Las Vegas, which concluded this week. Unlike previous years, the event was not dominated by big tech and auto companies, with a record 1,400 startups displaying prototypes to capture the attention of consumers and investors.
Despite countless promises to the contrary, many of these novel gadgets may never reach store shelves. But they all show how technology is progressing and give us a glimpse of what's coming next.
disappearing device
LG's Signature OLED T is the first transparent TV to be released later this year.Photo: LG
After years of showing off prototypes of its see-through display, LG is finally turning it into a TV.of Signature OLED T is a 77-inch (196 cm) transparent television that looks like glass. With the push of a button, you can raise the black film to block out what's behind your TV on movie night. LG said it would ship the TV this year, but did not say how much it would cost, which is expected to be in the thousands of dollars.
South Korean rival Samsung also displayed transparent micro-LED panels, but only in prototype form. There was also another type of disappearing technology, using a new Music Frame that hides the speaker behind a picture, similar to Ikea and Sonos' 2021 Symphonisque Frame speakers.
Meanwhile, new GL.i Net Marble Hide your necessary but unsightly internet router in plain sight. Marble hides behind a photo frame that can be placed on your desk or wall, discreetly transmitting broadband throughout your home.
Daily necessities using AI
Oliver Widler and Dennis Widler show off Flappie AI Catflap at CES 2024. Photo: James Atoa/UPI/Rex/Shutterstock
2023 may be the year of AI chatbots, but 2024 is likely to be the year of AI in everything else.
aptly named Swiss startup Flappie It has an AI-powered cat flap that can detect if your furry friend is trying to bring some unfortunate prey into your home. When the camera discovers the mouse in the cat's mouth, it will block the door until the cat friend drops the door. There is an app that allows you to remotely control the cat flap and track your pet's comings and goings. It is priced at CHF 449 (£414) and will ship in the spring.
AI was also applied to binoculars that can identify more than 9,000 bird species when pointed at them. 3,820 pounds ($4,799) Swarovski Optic AX Visio The has a built-in 13MP camera that can also shoot HD video.
One of the most interesting gadgets is rabbit r1: A $199 orange rectangle with a screen, camera, and scroll wheel that allows you to remotely control your phone and free yourself from boring doomscrolling. Rabbit says its AI understands how apps and websites work, so when you tell it to buy something, order a taxi, or edit a photo, it launches the appropriate app. It automatically performs tasks such as clicking the button and pressing all the appropriate buttons. You can also repeat the process hands-free by teaching them how to operate it.
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