Researchers at the Flatiron Institute’s Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ) have discovered why a classical computer was able to outperform a quantum computer on a complex task. By analyzing a two-dimensional quantum system of flipping magnets, they found that the system exhibits behavior known as confinement, which had previously only been seen in one-dimensional … Read more
The US government has issued new guidelines for handling threat intelligence information shared between private sectors, individual researchers, and federal departments. The guidance follows the Traffic Light Protocol (TLP), a standardized framework for classifying sensitive information. According to the guidance, the government adheres to TLP markings when sharing cybersecurity information voluntarily received from individuals or … Read more
Neurophysiologist Robert Lawrence Kuhn has published a comprehensive taxonomy of proposed solutions to the hard problem of consciousness. This framework explores theories regarding meaning, purpose, and value, AI consciousness, virtual immortality, survival beyond death, and free will. Kuhn’s article, “A landscape of consciousness: Toward a taxonomy of explanations and implications,” was recently published in Progress … Read more
A team of researchers from the Korea Institute of Materials Science has developed a world-first ultra-thin film composite material capable of absorbing over 99% of electromagnetic waves from various frequency bands, including 5G/6G and WiFi. The material, which is less than 0.5mm thick, can absorb electromagnetic waves across multiple frequency bands simultaneously. Electromagnetic waves emitted … Read more
A Russian court has ordered Google to pay around $20 trillion in fines for blocking Russian media stations’ content from YouTube, sparking doubts about Moscow’s ability to collect the massive debt. The fine is part of a four-year court case initiated after YouTube banned a pro-Kremlin channel in 2020 due to US sanctions. Google was … Read more
Microsoft has unveiled a new benchmark called Windows Agent Arena, designed to test AI agents in realistic Windows operating system environments. The goal of this platform is to expedite the development of reliable and capable models that can handle complex tasks. According to early benchmarks, multi-modal AI agents have an average performance success rate of … Read more
Growing up is a journey that shapes our beliefs, behaviors, and emotional well-being. The family unit can be a foundational support system for many, but it can also be a source of neglect and emotional oversight. Children who feel consistently taken for granted may develop low self-esteem, difficulties in relationships, and a persistent sense of … Read more
The upcoming release of The Matrix 5 has sparked concerns about how the franchise will handle its established lore. With Keanu Reeves’ involvement uncertain, the fifth installment may need to address Neo’s absence in a way that preserves the canon. However, there is an existing workaround that could explain why someone other than Reeves can … Read more
Researchers at Rockefeller’s Laboratory of Bacteriology and the MSKCC’s Structural Biology Laboratory have discovered a new way CRISPR systems fight viruses. The system, called CRISPR-Cas10, uses genetic scissors to snip out problematic DNA, but also produces toxic molecules that flood cells and prevent virus spread. The discovery provides a new type of immune strategy for … Read more
Stephen King is widely known for his iconic horror novels, but some of his best work spans multiple genres. The author has shown versatility in writing dramas, thrillers, and even comedies, with some of his strongest writing coming from stepping outside his comfort zone. However, it can be challenging to know where to start with … Read more