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US Health Secretary's Purge of Vaccine Advisory Board Sparks Outrage

2025-06-09

US Health Secretary's Purge of Vaccine Advisory Board Sparks Outrage

US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired all 17 members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccine advisory committee on Monday, sparking widespread criticism from medical groups. Kennedy cited conflicts of interest and plans to appoint his own team within two weeks. The move, described as a "coup," threatens to undermine public trust in vaccine science and potentially lead to a rise in vaccine-preventable diseases. It also breaks a previous promise by Kennedy and raises concerns about the impartiality of future committee members.

(apnews.com)

Tech

UK Courts Grapple with AI-Generated Fake Cases

2025-06-08

UK Courts Grapple with AI-Generated Fake Cases

Two cases in England have highlighted the misuse of AI by lawyers, leading to the citation of fabricated legal precedents. In one instance, 18 non-existent cases were cited in a £90 million lawsuit; another involved five fake cases in a housing claim. Judges warned that lawyers must verify the accuracy of AI-generated research, or face prosecution for contempt of court, or even, in severe cases, perverting the course of justice, a crime carrying a life sentence. While the lawyers involved were referred to their professional regulators, the incidents underscore the need for regulatory frameworks to address the risks and opportunities of AI in the legal field, ensuring public confidence in the justice system.

(apnews.com)

Misc

Oldest Whale Bone Tools Found, Dating Back 20,000 Years

2025-05-31

Oldest Whale Bone Tools Found, Dating Back 20,000 Years

Scientists have unearthed the oldest known evidence of humans using whale bones to make tools, dating back approximately 20,000 years. Discovered in the Bay of Biscay near Spain and France, these narrow projectiles were crafted from the bones of blue whales, fin whales, sperm whales, and other species. Researchers believe ancient humans likely scavenged beached whales, repurposing their bones for hunting reindeer or bison, rather than actively hunting whales themselves. This discovery, published in Nature Communications, highlights the importance of coastal resources for early human survival and pushes back the timeline of whale bone tool use.

(apnews.com)

Tech paleolithic whale bone tools

Record-Breaking Heat Expected for Next Five Years, Warns WMO

2025-05-28

Record-Breaking Heat Expected for Next Five Years, Warns WMO

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the UK Met Office predict an 80% chance of breaking annual temperature records for the next five years. This increased global mean temperature translates to a higher likelihood of extreme weather events: stronger hurricanes, heavier rainfall, and more severe droughts, leading to increased loss of life. There's an 86% chance that one of the next five years will exceed the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement, and a 70% chance the five-year average will surpass it. The projections also indicate a possibility, however slight, of reaching the more alarming 2°C threshold before the end of the decade. This warming trend accelerates Arctic ice melt and sea-level rise.

(apnews.com)

Tech

VW Emissions Scandal: Four Managers Convicted, Prison Sentences Handed Down

2025-05-28

VW Emissions Scandal: Four Managers Convicted, Prison Sentences Handed Down

After nearly four years, a German court convicted four former Volkswagen managers for their roles in the diesel emissions cheating scandal. The former head of diesel development received a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence, while the head of drive train electronics got two years and seven months. Two others received suspended sentences. The scandal began in 2015 when the U.S. EPA revealed VW's use of software to manipulate emissions tests. VW has paid over $33 billion in fines and compensation. While former CEO Martin Winterkorn's trial is suspended due to health reasons, proceedings against 31 other suspects are ongoing.

(apnews.com)

Tech emissions scandal fraud

Kermit the Frog Delivers Commencement Address at University of Maryland

2025-05-26

Kermit the Frog Delivers Commencement Address at University of Maryland

Kermit the Frog, the iconic Muppet, delivered the commencement address at the University of Maryland's 2025 graduation ceremony. He offered graduating students advice on navigating economic uncertainty and political turmoil, encouraging collaboration rather than competition. The choice of speaker is a nod to Jim Henson, the Muppets creator and a 1960 University of Maryland alumnus, who famously crafted the original Kermit from his mother's coat and a ping-pong ball.

(apnews.com)

Misc Commencement Speech

350-Million-Year-Old Reptile Footprints Rewrite Evolutionary History

2025-05-22

350-Million-Year-Old Reptile Footprints Rewrite Evolutionary History

Scientists in Australia have unearthed the oldest known reptile footprints, dating back approximately 350 million years. This discovery predates the previously oldest known footprints by 32 million years, suggesting that the transition of vertebrates from ocean to land happened much faster than previously thought. The footprints, exhibiting clawed feet, confirm the animal's complete terrestrial adaptation, as claws only evolved in fully land-dwelling creatures. Estimated to be about 2 1/2 feet long, the reptile likely resembled a modern monitor lizard. This remarkable find significantly alters our understanding of early vertebrate evolution and provides crucial insights into the history of life on Earth.

(apnews.com)

Tech reptiles

143,000 Chess Players Force World Champion Magnus Carlsen to a Draw

2025-05-21

143,000 Chess Players Force World Champion Magnus Carlsen to a Draw

World chess champion Magnus Carlsen was held to a draw by a team of over 143,000 online players in a record-breaking match on Chess.com. Dubbed "Magnus Carlsen vs. The World," the freestyle match saw players globally vote on each move. Against all odds, and despite Chess.com's prediction of a Carlsen victory, Team World forced a draw by strategically maneuvering Carlsen's king into a threefold repetition, a stunning upset. This historic game highlights the growing power of online collaboration and the rise of casual chess.

(apnews.com)

Game

First Ever Footage of a Giant New Zealand Snail Laying an Egg

2025-05-20

First Ever Footage of a Giant New Zealand Snail Laying an Egg

New Zealand's Department of Conservation has captured the first-ever footage of a threatened giant carnivorous snail, Powelliphanta augusta, laying an egg from its neck. Endemic to New Zealand, this snail's habitat was destroyed by mining, leading to conservation efforts. After nearly two decades of care in a controlled environment, rangers witnessed this remarkable event. Hermaphroditic, each snail lays about five eggs a year, with an incubation period exceeding a year. These snails live for 25-30 years, a stark contrast to common, fast-reproducing garden snails. The Powelliphanta augusta faced extinction due to mining but conservation efforts have yielded nearly 2000 snails in captivity.

(apnews.com)

Tech New Zealand snail

UK Economy Surges, But Future Uncertain Amidst Global Trade Tensions

2025-05-15

UK Economy Surges, But Future Uncertain Amidst Global Trade Tensions

The British economy grew at its fastest pace in a year during the first quarter of 2025, expanding by 0.7%, a welcome boost for the Labour government. The services sector fueled this growth, making the UK the fastest-growing G7 economy in Q1. However, economists predict a slowdown in Q2 due to global uncertainty stemming from US tariffs and new UK taxes. While a US-UK trade deal was announced, reducing tariffs on some goods, the lingering effects of the US-China trade war and rising domestic prices are expected to dampen consumer demand and export growth.

(apnews.com)

Tech UK economy global trade

Google Pays $1.4B to Settle Texas Data Privacy Lawsuit

2025-05-10

Google Pays $1.4B to Settle Texas Data Privacy Lawsuit

Google will pay $1.4 billion to settle claims by Texas that it collected user data without permission, the state's attorney general announced. This is the largest amount any state has won in a settlement with Google over data privacy violations. The settlement covers geolocation, incognito searches, and biometric data, reflecting Texas's tough stance against tech companies exploiting user data. Google stated the settlement addresses older claims and won't require new product changes.

(apnews.com)

Tech settlement

Academic Fights Back Against Online Harassment with Kindness

2025-05-04

Academic Fights Back Against Online Harassment with Kindness

Dartmouth College professor Sachi Schmidt-Hori, a narrative consultant on Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Mirage, faced a torrent of online harassment from gamers angered by the inclusion of a Black samurai character. Instead of ignoring the hate, she responded with kindness, inviting her harassers to Zoom calls. This unexpected approach led to some apologies and the removal of negative content. Her actions highlight the potential of empathy in combating online toxicity and sparked a discussion about representation in video games and online hate.

(apnews.com)

Game video game controversy kindness

TikTok Hit with €530 Million EU Fine for Data Transfers to China

2025-05-02

TikTok Hit with €530 Million EU Fine for Data Transfers to China

EU privacy watchdogs fined TikTok €530 million ($600 million) after a four-year investigation revealed that the video-sharing app's data transfers to China violated strict EU data privacy rules. The Irish Data Protection Commission, TikTok's lead regulator in the EU, cited a lack of transparency about data location and ordered compliance within six months. TikTok disagreed with the decision, planning to appeal, arguing that its Project Clover initiative significantly enhanced data security. However, the investigation found TikTok failed to address potential access to European user data by Chinese authorities, leading to the substantial fine. Further regulatory action is under consideration.

(apnews.com)

Tech EU Fine

Agent Orange's Lingering Legacy: Vietnam's Struggle for Cleanup Amidst US Aid Cuts

2025-04-28

Agent Orange's Lingering Legacy: Vietnam's Struggle for Cleanup Amidst US Aid Cuts

Decades after the Vietnam War ended, the devastating effects of Agent Orange continue to plague millions of Vietnamese people. While the US began providing funding for cleanup efforts in the mid-2000s, Trump-era cuts to foreign aid have cast a shadow over these crucial projects, leaving millions of victims in a precarious situation. The cleanup faces funding shortages and staff reductions, while the science surrounding the long-term health impacts remains incomplete. The article highlights the plight of individuals like Nguyen Thanh Hai, showcasing the enduring suffering caused by Agent Orange and the profound impact of shifting US policy on the Vietnamese people.

(apnews.com)

Misc Agent Orange Environmental Pollution

Judge Arrested for Allegedly Helping Man Evade Immigration Authorities

2025-04-25

Judge Arrested for Allegedly Helping Man Evade Immigration Authorities

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested by the FBI for allegedly helping a man evade immigration authorities, escalating tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary. The FBI alleges Dugan intentionally misled agents trying to arrest Eduardo Flores-Ruiz. Dugan's attorney claims her actions were not in the interest of public safety. The arrest has sparked debate about the separation of powers and government overreach.

(apnews.com)

Misc judiciary power struggle

Pentagon Security Breach: Defense Secretary Bypasses Protocols for Signal App

2025-04-25

Pentagon Security Breach: Defense Secretary Bypasses Protocols for Signal App

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used a personal computer and the Signal app in his office, bypassing Pentagon security protocols via an unsecured internet line. This raises concerns about potential hacking and surveillance of sensitive defense information. Despite secure communication systems available, Hegseth's use of Signal and his disclosure of sensitive details about a Yemen airstrike in unsecure chats have sparked controversy and an ongoing Defense Department investigation.

(apnews.com)

Tech information leak

Google Faces Breakup Threat in Landmark Antitrust Case

2025-04-21

Google Faces Breakup Threat in Landmark Antitrust Case

The US Department of Justice is pushing for a radical restructuring of Google, alleging its search engine maintains an illegal monopoly. A judge ruled in Google's favor last year, finding them guilty of anti-competitive practices stemming from a 2020 lawsuit. The current hearings focus on remedies, with intense debate centering on Google's use of AI to maintain its dominance. The DOJ argues that Google leverages AI to stifle competition, while Google claims its market position is fairly earned. This case, the largest tech antitrust case since the Microsoft case, could reshape the tech landscape.

(apnews.com)

Tech

Pope Francis Dies: A Controversial Reformer's Legacy

2025-04-21

Pope Francis Dies: A Controversial Reformer's Legacy

Pope Francis, 88, passed away on April 1st, 2025. The first Latin American pope, he charmed the world with his humble style and concern for the poor, but alienated conservatives with his critiques of capitalism and climate change. His papacy was marked by contradictions: embracing refugees, showing inclusivity towards the LGBTQ+ community, and pushing for reforms within the Vatican bureaucracy and finances. However, he also faced criticism for his handling of the Chilean clergy sexual abuse scandal. He attempted to bridge the gap between conservative and progressive factions within the Catholic Church, but ultimately left a complex and controversial legacy.

(apnews.com)

Misc Pope Francis Religious Reform

UNESCO Honors Poland's Polonaise: A Dance Through History

2025-04-18

UNESCO Honors Poland's Polonaise: A Dance Through History

Once banned under Russian rule, Poland's stately polonaise dance, a symbol of national spirit, has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. This 18th-century dance, performed at aristocratic balls and village celebrations alike, inspired composers like Bach and Chopin. Even during Poland's partitions, it fostered a sense of national identity. Today, it remains a significant part of national events, graduations, and weddings, representing cooperation, reconciliation, and equality. Its simple elegance continues to unite people, passed down through generations and performed in streets and schools alike, demonstrating its enduring power.

(apnews.com)

Misc Polonaise Intangible Cultural Heritage

Google Found Guilty of Antitrust Violations Again: Ad Tech Empire Under Siege

2025-04-17

Google Found Guilty of Antitrust Violations Again: Ad Tech Empire Under Siege

A federal judge has ruled that Google illegally exploited its online marketing technology to boost profits, marking the second antitrust violation against the tech giant in less than a year. The ruling centers on Google's dominant position in ad tech, accusing the company of manipulating prices and harming competition. While Google plans to appeal, the decision could force the sale of parts of its advertising technology, significantly impacting its massive advertising empire. This case highlights the complexities of Google's advertising ecosystem built over a decade of acquisitions, with repercussions felt throughout the online advertising industry.

(apnews.com)

Tech Ad Tech

Trump Admin Kills Free IRS Tax Filing Program

2025-04-16

Trump Admin Kills Free IRS Tax Filing Program

The Trump administration plans to eliminate the IRS's Direct File program, a free electronic tax filing system. Launched during the Biden administration, the program was praised for its ease of use, but Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation companies criticized it as wasteful. While free alternatives exist, they are often difficult to use. The decision sparks concerns about government efficiency and accusations of favoring large tax preparation companies, with Senator Warren alleging the move protects their profits.

(apnews.com)

Tech tax filing

Chang'e 6 Finds Moon's Far Side Surprisingly Dry

2025-04-12

Chang'e 6 Finds Moon's Far Side Surprisingly Dry

Analysis of lunar samples returned by China's Chang'e 6 mission suggests the far side of the moon may be drier than the near side. Scientists examined 578 particles from the South Pole-Aitken basin, estimating water abundance at less than 1.5 micrograms per gram—lower than previous near-side findings. While more samples are needed for conclusive evidence, the dryness could be linked to the basin's formation or variations in water distribution. This finding is unlikely to significantly alter NASA's plans to land astronauts near the lunar south pole, where abundant water ice is expected to support future missions.

(apnews.com)

Tech Lunar Exploration Chang'e 6 Lunar Water

AI-Powered Weather Translation Halted, Jeopardizing Lives

2025-04-10

AI-Powered Weather Translation Halted, Jeopardizing Lives

The National Weather Service (NWS) has suspended language translations of its weather alerts, raising concerns that non-English speakers could miss life-saving warnings. The service paused translations due to a lapsed contract with AI translation company Lilt, which had been providing translations in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese since late 2023. Experts highlight a case where translated warnings saved lives during a 2021 Kentucky tornado outbreak. The contract lapse coincides with budget cuts within NOAA, impacting staffing levels. Millions rely on non-English weather information; the suspension puts lives at risk.

(apnews.com)

Tech weather alerts language translation

Trump Cuts Leave Iconic US Hiking Trails in Disrepair

2025-04-06

Trump Cuts Leave Iconic US Hiking Trails in Disrepair

Budget cuts under the Trump administration have severely impacted maintenance on iconic American hiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail. Sections of both trails are impassable due to fallen trees and storm damage, increasing hazards for hikers. Layoffs within the National Park Service have further delayed repairs, negatively impacting local economies and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite the challenges, many hikers are proceeding with their journeys, but experts warn the future of these landmark trails is at risk.

(apnews.com)

Misc National Parks Hiking Government Funding

RealPage Sues Berkeley Over Algorithmic Rent-Setting Ban

2025-04-05

RealPage Sues Berkeley Over Algorithmic Rent-Setting Ban

RealPage, a real estate software company, filed a lawsuit against Berkeley, California, over a city ordinance banning landlords from using algorithms to set rent. RealPage claims the ordinance violates its free speech rights and is based on misinformation about its products. Berkeley argues the algorithms contribute to rising rents, while RealPage counters that a lack of housing supply is the primary driver. The Department of Justice previously sued RealPage for alleged cartel-like price collusion. San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Minneapolis have passed similar ordinances. RealPage is considering legal action against other cities.

(apnews.com)

Tech

AI Avatar Represents Himself in Court: A Legal First?

2025-04-04

A New York man used an AI-generated avatar to represent himself in court, leading to a stern rebuke from the judge. Lacking a lawyer, he hoped the avatar would overcome his speech impediment. While he apologized, the incident highlights the risks of AI in legal proceedings and the lack of clear regulations. Other lawyers have recently been fined for misusing AI tools, even citing fabricated cases. However, the Arizona Supreme Court has started using AI avatars to summarize court rulings, showcasing the evolving use of AI in the legal field.

(apnews.com)

Tech

Fintech Founder Convicted of $175M JPMorgan Chase Fraud

2025-04-01

Fintech Founder Convicted of $175M JPMorgan Chase Fraud

Charlie Javice, founder of the fintech startup Frank, was convicted of defrauding JPMorgan Chase out of $175 million by grossly exaggerating her customer base. Javice claimed millions of users, but the actual number was far lower. She and her co-defendant fabricated data to support the false claims. The case draws parallels to the Theranos scandal, highlighting concerns about fraud and misrepresentation in the tech startup world. Despite Javice's defense arguing JPMorgan was aware of the deception, the jury found her guilty, and she faces decades in prison.

(apnews.com)

Startup

US Robotics Firms Urge National Strategy Amidst China's Rise

2025-03-28

US Robotics Firms Urge National Strategy Amidst China's Rise

American robotics companies are pushing for a national robotics strategy to compete with China's growing dominance in the field. While the US boasts advancements in AI and robotics, the lack of a cohesive national strategy risks losing its lead. Proposed solutions include tax incentives, funding for research and training, and a dedicated federal robotics office. China's significant investment and progress are undeniable, but the long-term viability may favor more practical, polyfunctional robots over humanoids. This race is not just about technological supremacy but also national strategy and economic future.

(apnews.com)

Tech

Supreme Court Weighs Fate of $8 Billion Telecom Subsidy

2025-03-26

Supreme Court Weighs Fate of $8 Billion Telecom Subsidy

The Supreme Court is hearing a case that could determine the fate of an $8 billion annual subsidy for phone and internet services in schools, libraries, and rural areas. The Universal Service Fund, which is funded by a tax on phone bills, is challenged on constitutional grounds. While both liberal and conservative justices expressed concern over the potential consequences of eliminating the fund, some justices questioned the level of authority delegated to the FCC and its reliance on a private administrator. A decision is expected by late June, with significant implications for tens of millions of Americans.

(apnews.com)

Tech Supreme Court Subsidy Telecommunications

Millions Help Fish Migrate via a Quirky 'Fish Doorbell' Livestream

2025-03-24

Millions Help Fish Migrate via a Quirky 'Fish Doorbell' Livestream

Utrecht, Netherlands, has installed a 'fish doorbell' – a live stream showing fish attempting to migrate through a city lock. Viewers can click a button to alert authorities when fish are spotted, prompting them to open the lock and aid the fish's journey to their spawning grounds. This unique blend of slow TV and ecological activism has garnered millions of viewers worldwide, proving a simple idea can make a big difference in conservation efforts.

(apnews.com)

Tech ecological activism slow tv

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