Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Tokyo Unveils 3D Digital Twin Viewer: Real-time Data for Urban Management

2024-12-26

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government launched a beta version of its 'See Tokyo in 3D' digital twin platform. Built using the TerriaJS framework, this 3D viewer integrates real-time data such as traffic, river levels, and shelter information, offering a comprehensive view of Tokyo. The platform aids urban planning and management by providing a clear visualization of city operations. Data conversion tools are also provided to promote the use of CityJSON in Japan's developer community, with parts of the source code being open-sourced.

(info.tokyo-digitaltwin.metro.tokyo.lg.jp)

Tech Digital Twin 3D Modeling City Data Visualization Urban Management

Gondwanaland: An Ancient Supercontinent's Modern History

2024-12-26

Around 400 million years ago, Australia was part of Gondwanaland, a supercontinent encompassing Antarctica, India, South America, and others. About 200 million years ago, it began breaking apart, leading to the continental configurations we see today. The Gondwana/Land project, an international research initiative, explores Gondwanaland's modern history, examining its impact from the remnants we protect to the resources we exploit. The name 'Gondwana' originates from a region in central India, and its modern usage is interwoven with colonial history, the Industrial Revolution, and resource extraction. Gondwanaland's mythical status, appearing in fiction and shaping cultural perceptions, is also investigated. While some Gondwanan remnants, like Australia's Gondwana Rainforests, are protected, their historical links to Indigenous peoples are often overlooked. This multidisciplinary project aims to unravel the complete story of Gondwanaland, revealing its significance in our modern world.

(www.australiangeographic.com.au)

Tech Gondwanaland continental drift geological history

Ocean Carbon Removal: Startups Race to Develop Marine Carbon Capture Technologies

2024-12-26

In the face of the climate crisis, several marine technology startups are developing innovative technologies to remove carbon dioxide from the ocean. The article highlights Captura's electrochemical approach to extract CO2 from seawater, and Ebb Carbon's method of enhancing ocean alkalinity to store carbon. These approaches, while diverse, face challenges in scaling up and quantifying carbon credits. Despite different technical pathways, the common goal is to leverage the ocean's vast carbon sink capacity to accelerate Earth's carbon cycle and combat climate change.

(spectrum.ieee.org)

Tech ocean carbon capture carbon removal

Undersea Power Cable Linking Finland and Estonia Damaged

2024-12-26

An undersea power cable connecting Finland and Estonia, Estlink 2, suffered an outage on December 25th. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo confirmed the incident and stated that the possibility of sabotage cannot be ruled out. Fingrid, Finland's national electricity transmission grid operator, assured the public that Finland has sufficient power reserves. Estonian authorities also reported adequate capacity to meet their energy needs. This incident is the latest in a series of damaging events targeting undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, raising concerns about the security of critical infrastructure in the region.

(www.euronews.com)

Tech Undersea Cable Baltic Sea Infrastructure Damage

arXiv: How Preprints Revolutionized Research Sharing

2024-12-26

From papyrus to preprints, the dissemination of scientific research has undergone a dramatic transformation. This article traces the history of peer review and highlights the emergence of arXiv and its impact on the scientific community. arXiv, as a preprint server, broke down the barriers of traditional journals, enabling rapid and open sharing of research findings. However, it also faces challenges related to quality control and information overload. The author explores the conflict and convergence between preprint culture and traditional academic publishing models, and the profound impact it has on the future direction of scientific research.

(joinreboot.org)

Tech preprints peer review

Super Snowflake Maker: A Winter Technological Wonder

2024-12-26

The 'Super Snowflake Maker' is not just a toy; it's a technological marvel that uses physics to create intricately shaped ice crystals resembling snowflakes. A precise control system sprays water droplets into an ultra-low temperature environment, instantly freezing them into various snowflake forms. Its design blends scientific rigor with artistic creativity, offering a captivating spectacle. Science enthusiasts and art lovers alike will find unique enjoyment and inspiration.

(supersnowflakemaker.com)

Tech Physics Art

Hertz Desperate to Offload Tesla Inventory, Offers Deep Discounts

2024-12-25

Rental car giant Hertz is aggressively selling off its Tesla Model 3 inventory at drastically reduced prices. A Hertz customer posted on Reddit a screenshot showing a 2023 Model 3 with 30,000 miles for just $17,913 – significantly below market value. While buying used rental cars carries risks, the low price and remaining battery warranty are tempting many. Hertz's move is likely a response to high depreciation on its large Tesla fleet and a push to clear inventory before year-end.

(jalopnik.com)

Tech Tesla Hertz Used Cars

Azerbaijan Airlines Crash: Missile Accident Emerges as Probable Cause

2024-12-25

An Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 of the 67 people on board. Initial reports from the investigation suggest the plane may have been accidentally hit by an air-defense missile while approaching Grozny. Surviving passengers reported hearing an explosion and seeing shrapnel hit the plane. The incident bears resemblance to the 2014 downing of MH17, also suspected to involve a surface-to-air missile. While the Azerbaijani president attributed the crash to a weather-related course change, the possibility of a missile accident is under investigation.

(www.euronews.com)

Tech plane crash missile Azerbaijan Airlines

MongoDB's Proactive Approach to Data Corruption in the Cloud

2024-12-25

MongoDB Atlas, a global cloud database service, tackles the challenge of silent data corruption at petabyte scale. The article details MongoDB's software-level solutions, including checksum validation, leveraging indexes and replication, and utilizing redundant replicas for repair. This three-step process—proactive monitoring, precise pinpointing, and data repair—ensures data integrity even in the face of hardware failures or random errors. MongoDB's approach effectively shields customers from the complexities of hardware management, guaranteeing data reliability and security.

(www.mongodb.com)

Tech data corruption cloud database

The Golden Age of Antibiotics and How to Reignite It

2024-12-25

This article explores the "Golden Age of Antibiotics" (early 1940s-mid 1960s), a period of rapid antibiotic discovery. It explains the decline in antibiotic development since the 1970s due to pharmaceutical companies shifting focus to more profitable areas and the rise of antibiotic resistance. The article proposes strategies to revive antibiotic discovery, such as genome mining, exploring novel bacteria, and combination therapies. It highlights the crucial role of government and organizational funding and innovative collaborative models to incentivize the development of new antibiotics, crucial in the fight against drug-resistant infections.

(ourworldindata.org)

Tech antibiotics antibiotic resistance drug discovery

Mullvad VPN 2024 Year in Review: Enhanced Security and Privacy

2024-12-25

Mullvad VPN's 2024 review highlights significant advancements in user privacy and security. Key achievements include migrating the support email inbox to self-hosted hardware, launching DAITA technology for enhanced traffic obfuscation, adding multi-hop connections and ShadowSocks support across all platforms, and completing multiple security audits of both VPN servers and apps. Additionally, Mullvad ran traditional outdoor advertising campaigns to raise awareness of mass surveillance.

(mullvad.net)

Tech

Three-Quarters of Earth's Land is Drying Out, 'Redefining Life on Earth'

2024-12-25

New research reveals that 77% of Earth's land has become drier over the past three decades, with a rapid increase in excessively salty soils. Climate change is accelerating this trend, expanding drylands to encompass over 40% of the planet (excluding Antarctica). This threatens agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and ecosystem health, exacerbating food and water insecurity. Unless emissions are curbed, this trend will continue, leading to severe socioeconomic consequences including hunger, displacement, and economic decline. Experts urge immediate action, including investments in drought-resistant and salt-tolerant crops, improved crop and water management, and nature-based solutions.

(grist.org)

Tech climate change land desertification food security

Server Reboot Failure: Cool-Down Reboot Solves Kernel Crash

2024-12-25

The author encountered two identical servers experiencing kernel crashes that couldn't be resolved by a simple reboot. During the crash, the servers printed a series of machine check exception errors during the system firmware stage, pointing to CPU hardware issues. A cool-down period of a few minutes after powering off, followed by a reboot, resolved the problem. This demonstrates that even a brief power interruption may not fully reset certain x86 system components, requiring a cool-down period for complete recovery.

(utcc.utoronto.ca)

Tech server failure kernel crash hardware issue

Japanese Firms Demo Unforgeable Quantum Tokens

2024-12-25

In response to the challenges posed by quantum computing to traditional encryption methods, Mitsui, NEC, and Quantinuum in Japan successfully demonstrated the technology of transmitting and redeeming quantum tokens over a 10-kilometer fiber optic network. This technology leverages quantum key distribution (QKD), exploiting the fragility of quantum data to achieve unforgeability, single-use properties, and local validation of tokens, offering a novel secure solution for financial transactions and asset management. This breakthrough marks a significant step towards commercial applications of quantum token technology.

(spectrum.ieee.org)

Tech quantum tokens quantum key distribution

Engineer Builds Camera That Ignores Perspective, Sees Through Walls

2024-12-25

Shane Wighton, the creator of the YouTube channel Stuff Made Here, has engineered an incredible camera that defies perspective and can even see through walls. Instead of a traditional lens, this camera uses a sophisticated mechanical system to scan a scene one pixel at a time, building a complete image. By utilizing a spinning gantry and a precisely controlled mirror, the camera moves in 3D space, capturing multiple views to reconstruct the final image. This allows it to create images without perspective, achieve reverse perspective, and even see around objects, showcasing an astonishing feat of engineering and imaging technology.

(petapixel.com)

Tech camera technology perspective imaging

CRT Simulation in a GPU Shader Outperforms BFI

2024-12-25

Blur Busters has unveiled a groundbreaking CRT simulation algorithm for GPU shaders, offering superior motion blur reduction compared to Black Frame Insertion (BFI). Combining Mark Rejhon's CRT beam simulator with Timothy Lotte's variable-MPRT BFI algorithm, it delivers smoother visuals, especially on high refresh rate displays, even for legacy 60Hz content. The algorithm, available on Shadertoy and GitHub, boasts less flicker than BFI and is set to be integrated into RetroArch.

(blurbusters.com)

Tech CRT simulation motion blur reduction GPU shader

Earth's Subsurface May Hold Vast Reserves of Natural Hydrogen

2024-12-25

Two geologists from the U.S. Geological Survey have developed a model suggesting Earth's subsurface may contain up to 5.6 × 10⁶ million metric tons of natural hydrogen. The model incorporates factors like natural production rates, reservoir amounts, and leakage from hydrogen-bearing rocks. While most of this hydrogen is likely inaccessible, the researchers highlight that harvesting just 2% could meet humanity's energy needs for roughly two centuries, offering a potential game-changer for clean energy.

(phys.org)

Tech natural hydrogen geological model clean energy

Genius and Rebellion: The Rise and Fall of Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory

2024-12-24

William Shockley, a brilliant but irascible physicist, is renowned for his invention of the transistor. His Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory brought together many of Silicon Valley's early luminaries. However, Shockley's arrogance and poor management style led to the departure of the "traitorous eight," who founded Fairchild Semiconductor, marking the beginning of a Silicon Valley legend. While Shockley Semiconductor was eventually acquired, its historical significance remains undeniable; it not only nurtured transistor technology but also gave birth to the flourishing modern semiconductor industry.

(www.abortretry.fail)

Tech transistor Silicon Valley Shockley

Deep Dive into BSC Cryptocurrency Scams

2024-12-24

During the 2021 cryptocurrency bull market, the Binance Smart Chain (BSC) was flooded with various scams. The author analyzes multiple cases, exposing common tactics employed by scammers, including: creating smart contracts that make tokens unsaleable; manipulating approval functions to fail transactions or approve for minuscule amounts; setting adjustable transaction fees, eventually to 100%; falsely claiming ownership renunciation or liquidity locking; and using deceptive marketing. These scams preyed on the lack of knowledge among many new investors, successfully defrauding significant funds. The article concludes with a warning against seeking financial advice from social media platforms like Reddit.

(nyuu.page)

Tech BSC scams smart contract vulnerabilities

EgyptAir Flight 804 Crash: The Untold Story

2024-12-24

On May 19, 2016, EgyptAir Flight 804 vanished from radar over the Mediterranean Sea. For eight years, the investigation was stalled, with conflicting reports from Egypt and France – one blaming a deliberate explosion, the other an accidental fire. In October 2024, Egypt unexpectedly released a 663-page final report, including both sides' findings. This article unravels the timeline, analyzes the reports, and reveals the most likely cause: a malfunction in the first officer's oxygen mask system ignited a fire, leading to the crash. This tragedy highlights aviation safety concerns and exposes the many ambiguities of the investigation.

(admiralcloudberg.medium.com)

Tech EgyptAir 804 Air Crash Investigation Aviation Safety

Electric Car Batteries Outlast Expectations, Potentially Lasting 20+ Years

2024-12-24

Studies of thousands of electric vehicles reveal that EV batteries are lasting far longer than anticipated, potentially exceeding 20 years. Contrary to the common belief that EV batteries require expensive replacements after a few years, research shows they can retain 87% of their original capacity even after 300,000 kilometers. This is largely attributed to less frequent charging and improvements in battery management systems. While rapid charging and hot climates accelerate battery degradation, the overall trend is positive, with some models showing an annual degradation rate of just 1.8%. This could significantly disrupt the automotive industry, as EVs offer lower maintenance costs and longer lifespans, potentially revolutionizing the traditional 15-year car lifespan.

(www.wired.com)

Tech electric vehicles battery lifespan battery management systems

Court Orders Cloudflare to Block Pirate Streaming Services

2024-12-24

A Milan court has ordered Cloudflare to block pirate streaming services offering Serie A football matches across all its services, including CDN, DNS, WARP, and proxy. The court ruled Cloudflare's services facilitate access to illegal streams, undermining Italy's 'Piracy Shield' legislation. The order also mandates broad data disclosure, requiring Cloudflare to identify customers using its services for piracy. This landmark ruling highlights the responsibility of third-party intermediaries in combating digital piracy and represents a significant step forward in anti-piracy efforts.

(torrentfreak.com)

Tech Serie A

The Future of Chocolate: Beyond Cocoa?

2024-12-24

Soaring cocoa prices, coupled with environmental concerns and labor issues, are creating a crisis in the Swiss chocolate industry. New EU regulations banning deforestation-linked products add further pressure. Startups are responding by developing cocoa-free alternatives, using ingredients like fava beans, oats, sunflower seeds, and carob. Innovative approaches include utilizing more of the cocoa fruit and even converting greenhouse gases into cocoa butter substitutes. While these technologies are nascent, the future of chocolate promises deliciousness, albeit with potentially altered sourcing.

(www.swissinfo.ch)

Tech Cocoa prices Chocolate alternatives Sustainability

Chilean Volcano Eruption Reveals Millennia-Old Underwater Landscape

2024-12-24

Following the 2008 eruption of the Chaitén volcano in Chile, scientists used a remotely operated vehicle to discover an underwater valley sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity. The expedition investigated the volcano's impact on the marine environment, including potential effects on underwater infrastructure and fisheries. Unexpectedly, they found a remarkably preserved ancient glacial landscape, offering invaluable insights into the region's geological history. Analysis of sediment samples will help reconstruct a timeline of geological events and further understand the eruption's impact on the marine ecosystem.

(arstechnica.com)

Tech Underwater volcano geology ocean exploration

Intel's Ex-CEO and CFO Face Shareholder Lawsuit Over Compensation

2024-12-24

Former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger and current CFO and co-interim CEO David Zinsner are facing a shareholder derivative lawsuit alleging they misled shareholders about the financial performance of Intel's foundry unit. The suit claims breaches of fiduciary and contractual duties, seeking the return of all profits, benefits, and compensation. This follows Gelsinger's failed turnaround plan and Intel's record quarterly loss, with the foundry business identified as a major source of losses. The lawsuit highlights Intel's challenges in regaining shareholder trust and rebuilding its image.

(www.cfodive.com)

Tech Financial Misreporting Shareholder Lawsuit

38th Chaos Communication Congress: Technology, Society, and Utopia Converge

2024-12-24

The 38th Chaos Communication Congress (38C3) will take place in Hamburg from December 27-30, 2024. This annual four-day conference, organized by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC) and volunteers, explores the intersection of technology, society, and utopia. The event features lectures, workshops, and various events on topics including information technology and a critical-creative approach to technology's societal impact. Participation is encouraged through volunteering, organizing events, and presenting projects, fostering a collaborative exploration of technology's future.

(events.ccc.de)

Tech Chaos Communication Congress Technology Conference Volunteer

Manx: An Open Source Treasure Trove of Vintage Computer Manuals

2024-12-23

Manx is an open-source project dedicated to cataloging and preserving manuals for older computers. It currently boasts nearly 10,000 manuals from 61 websites, covering minicomputers, mainframes, and associated peripherals like terminals and printers. While many manuals are scanned images and not directly indexable by search engines, Manx adds metadata and information to compensate. Its search currently focuses on part numbers, titles, and keywords. For microcomputer manuals, Tiziano's 1000 BiT is a better resource.

(manx-docs.org)

Tech vintage computing manuals

International Rescue! The Epic Quest to Save a 43-Inch Sony CRT TV

2024-12-23

YouTube creator Shank Mods embarked on an epic rescue mission to save a mythical 43-inch Sony KX-45ED1 CRT television. This behemoth, weighing 440 pounds and released in 1989 for a staggering $40,000 (over $100,000 today), was thought to be a mere legend. Following a lead from a photo in a Japanese soba restaurant, Shank coordinated an international effort, overcoming numerous logistical hurdles to transport the TV to the US. The restoration process, detailed in a recent YouTube video, was equally challenging, showcasing the dedication of a global community of retro tech enthusiasts.

(obsoletesony.substack.com)

Tech CRT TV Sony Tech History

Supernovae Data Suggests Foundational Shift in Cosmological Models

2024-12-23

A new study presents a cosmologically model-independent statistical analysis of the Pantheon+ Type Ia supernovae spectroscopic dataset, improving upon the standard methodology used by Lane et al. By employing the Tripp equation for supernova standardization alone, the study avoids potential correlations in stretch and color distributions. The results strongly favor the 'Timescape' cosmology over the standard ΛCDM model in explaining the data, providing evidence for the need to revisit the foundations of theoretical and observational cosmology. Even when restricting the sample to redshifts beyond conventional scales of statistical homogeneity (z > 0.075), Timescape remains preferred over ΛCDM.

(arxiv.org)

Tech Cosmology Supernovae Timescape Cosmology

Were Neanderthals Cold-Adapted or Just Highly Adaptable? Ribcage Reconstruction Offers Clues

2024-12-23

A new study virtually reconstructs a Neanderthal ribcage from Shanidar Cave in Iraq. The results reveal a unique "bell-shaped" Neanderthal thorax, distinct from modern humans and closer to those adapted to cold climates. However, this doesn't imply exclusive cold-adaptation, as Shanidar 3 and Kebara 2 Neanderthals lived in relatively mild climates. The study suggests Neanderthal body builds were adaptable to various climate types, not just cold ones.

(phys.org)

Tech ribcage reconstruction climate adaptation

Category: Tech