Science and Technology

The US has a plan to breed millions of flies and drop them from planes. Here’s why

The US strategy: breeding millions of flies for plane-based release

In an unconventional approach to agricultural protection, the United States is preparing to breed and release millions of sterile flies over targeted areas by air. While it may sound unusual, this carefully coordinated plan is rooted in decades of scientific research and pest management aimed at protecting American agriculture from devastating invasive species.The aim of this initiative is the screwworm fly, a parasitic insect notorious for inflicting significant damage to livestock. The larvae of the screwworm consume the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, resulting in severe injuries, infections, and potentially death if not treated. The economic and environmental impacts of…
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AI impersonator used Marco Rubio’s identity to contact foreign ministers

In a notable case highlighting the increasing dangers linked to artificial intelligence, an unidentified person allegedly utilized AI resources to imitate U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and contacted government officials from other countries. This occurrence, involving online trickery on a global scale, emphasizes the developing issues that arise from the swift progress of artificial intelligence and its abuse in political and diplomatic spheres.The impersonation has attracted the attention of both security specialists and political commentators, as it involved the creation of AI-generated messages designed to replicate Senator Rubio's identity. These fake communications were targeted at foreign ministers and senior officials, intending…
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Apple hits back against 'unprecedented' €500m EU fine

Apple disputes ‘unprecedented’ €500m EU sanction

Apple has pushed back firmly against a recent decision by the European Union to impose a €500 million fine, describing the penalty as “unwarranted” and “unprecedented” in scope. The fine, announced as part of an antitrust investigation, has reignited debates over the regulation of major technology firms operating within the European single market, as well as broader questions about competition, consumer choice, and digital fairness.The European Commission, which serves as the EU’s executive arm, accused Apple of engaging in anticompetitive practices by restricting music streaming services from informing users about alternative, and often cheaper, subscription options outside Apple’s App Store…
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A video game on 'gold diggers' is fuelling a sexism debate in China

China’s sexism debate intensified by ‘gold diggers’ video game

A newly launched video game in China has sparked extensive public discussion about gender stereotypes, sexism, and the depiction of women in mainstream media. The dispute revolves around a mobile game that prompts players to "uncover" so-called "gold diggers"—a phrase commonly used to label women thought to be pursuing financial benefits through romantic involvements. The game has rapidly turned into a cultural hot topic, attracting criticism from feminist organizations, social media commentators, and scholars who assert that it reinforces damaging gender prejudices in a society where issues of gender equality are gaining significant attention.The central idea of the game is…
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'I'm being paid to fix issues caused by AI'

‘How AI flaws are fueling my paycheck’

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and workplaces across the globe, a surprising trend is emerging: an increasing number of professionals are being paid to fix problems created by the very AI systems designed to streamline operations. This new reality highlights the complex and often unpredictable relationship between human workers and advanced technologies, raising important questions about the limits of automation, the value of human oversight, and the evolving nature of work in the digital age.For many years, AI has been seen as a transformative technology that can enhance productivity, lower expenses, and minimize human mistakes. AI-powered applications are…
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Character. AI’s new CEO sets out to confront fears surrounding children’s chatbot use

As the integration of artificial intelligence into daily life grows, discussions surrounding its effects—especially on the youth—are becoming more urgent. Character.AI is one company leading these conversations, offering a platform where users can interact with AI through customizable, interactive personas. With the introduction of its new CEO, the company is re-evaluating how to tackle increasing concerns about children's interactions with its chatbots.The rapid rise of AI-driven conversational tools has opened new possibilities for communication, education, and entertainment. Yet, as these technologies become more accessible, questions about their influence on children’s development, behavior, and well-being have also emerged. Many parents, educators,…
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lan Turing's Real Enigma Code-Breaking: The True Story Behind 'The ...

How did Alan Turing influence computer science?

Few figures in the history of technology have had an impact as far-reaching as Alan Turing. Renowned as one of the foundational pillars of computer science, Turing’s theories and innovations have shaped not only computational machinery but the very way society perceives information, logic, and artificial intelligence. Understanding Turing’s role in computer science entails tracing his distinct contributions to theoretical frameworks, practical accomplishments, and his enduring legacy across disciplines.Theoretical Origins: The Turing MachineThe origins of theoretical computer science are closely tied to Turing’s 1936 paper, On Computable Numbers, with an Application to the Entscheidungsproblem. Within this seminal work, Turing introduced…
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medical practitioners having a discussion

How did Avicenna influence medieval medicine?

The Enduring Legacy of Avicenna in Medieval MedicineAvicenna, whose birth name was Ibn Sina, stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of medicine. Born in 980 CE in present-day Uzbekistan, Avicenna wrote extensively in diverse fields such as philosophy, astronomy, alchemy, and especially medicine. His towering medical treatise, The Canon of Medicine, fundamentally shaped medical thought and practice throughout the medieval period and well into the Renaissance. The depth of his contributions extends not only across the Islamic world but also into the foundations of European medicine.Outline and Elements of Avicenna’s Canon of MedicineAvicenna’s Canon of…
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'There is a problem': Facebook and Instagram users complain of account bans

Facebook and Instagram users hit by bans, report: ‘There is a problem’

In the past few weeks, there has been an increasing concern among Facebook and Instagram users regarding sudden account suspensions. Many individuals are left confused about the reasons for the bans. Instances of users being unable to access their accounts with no prior notification have led to significant frustration, as they try to comprehend the issue and look for solutions from the platforms.For many, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are not just channels for personal expression but essential tools for business, communication, and community engagement. The sudden loss of access can have significant consequences, particularly for small…
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Ancient Egyptian history may be rewritten by DNA bone test

The impact of DNA bone tests on Ancient Egyptian history

Recent progress in genetic testing is providing new opportunities for historians and archaeologists who aim to unlock the secrets of ancient societies. In a noteworthy scientific breakthrough, the latest DNA examination of ancient Egyptian skeletal remains could lead to a re-evaluation of established stories regarding the area's history, presenting perspectives that might alter our comprehension of one of the world’s most legendary civilizations.For decades, knowledge about ancient Egypt has largely depended on archaeological finds, inscriptions, and written records. While these traditional sources have provided valuable information about dynasties, religious practices, and daily life along the Nile, they have also left…
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