News Minimalist

09 Apr 2024 19:01

[6.8] Non-invasive CT scans and AI improve heart surgery feasibility — HospiMedica

For the first time, researchers tried a new way to plan and do heart bypass surgery using non-invasive scans and AI to check blood flow. The FAST TRACK CABG study showed this method is safe and works well. It used GE Healthcare’s scans and HeartFlow’s AI blood flow analysis on 114 patients, finding it as good as traditional methods but less invasive. This could change how heart surgery is planned, making it safer and simpler by avoiding direct artery catheterization.

News Minimalist

09 Apr 2024 19:01

[7.2] March 2024 global temperatures hit record high — The Guardian

March set a new global heat record, being 0.1C above the previous March record from 2016, and 1.68C above pre-industrial levels, reported by Copernicus Climate Change Service. This marks the 10th consecutive record-breaking month, temporarily surpassing the 1.5C limit of the Paris climate agreement. Scientists are surprised, attributing factors like El Niño and reduced cooling pollutants, but note these don't fully explain the increase.

News Minimalist

05 Apr 2024 16:01

[6.9] Total solar eclipse on Monday visible to 32 million Americans — The Washington Post

A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, with NASA estimating 32 million Americans in the path of totality. This eclipse, not seen in this scope until 2045, will be the longest-lasting since 2009, occurring during peak solar magnetic activity for enhanced visual effects.

News Minimalist

05 Apr 2024 16:01

[7.1] FDA approves AI-driven tests for sepsis made by Prenosis — The Washington Post

The FDA has approved an AI-driven diagnostic tool by Prenosis for predicting sepsis risk, making it the first for such a purpose. This tool, developed using over 100,000 blood samples, evaluates a patient's risk in four categories. Sepsis, causing at least 350,000 deaths annually in the U.S., is a major health concern. Despite Prenosis being first to receive FDA approval, other companies like Epic Systems have developed similar AI diagnostics. Prenosis's innovation aims to provide personalized patient care, moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches in hospitals.

News Minimalist

03 Apr 2024 16:17

[6.8] Researchers develop new technique to measure blood glucose using smartphone — The Indian Express

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has developed a novel method that repurposes the magnetometer in smartphones—commonly used for navigation—to accurately measure blood glucose levels. By attaching a solution-filled well and a hydrogel strip containing magnetic particles to a smartphone, changes in the hydrogel caused by glucose or pH variations alter the magnetic field detected by the magnetometer. This technique, demonstrated to accurately detect minute glucose concentrations, could lead to affordable, easy-to-produce test kits for smartphone-based glucose monitoring, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods.

News Minimalist

02 Apr 2024 16:30

[7.2] Backdoor in XZ Utils allows unauthorized root access — WIRED

A backdoor was discovered in XZ Utils, a widely used data compression utility on Linux systems. Malicious code in versions 5.6.0 and 5.6.1 allowed unauthorized access with root privileges. The backdoor was part of a sophisticated supply chain attack, with the perpetrator, Jia Tan, infiltrating the project over years. The backdoor enabled the execution of malicious commands through SSH. The incident was described as a nightmare scenario by experts.

News Minimalist

29 Mar 2024 17:09

[6.8] World Court orders Israel to open land crossings to Gaza — The Globe and Mail

The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to open new land crossings to allow essential supplies into Gaza, aiming to prevent famine. The unanimous ruling, including a vote from Israel's appointed judge, demands unhindered access for food, water, and medical supplies. The court also called for the immediate release of hostages taken during a Hamas attack.

News Minimalist

29 Mar 2024 17:09

[6.9] New NYC tolling system charges vehicles to enter congestion zone — The New York Times

New York City will charge most vehicles entering the congestion zone below 60th Street. Cars pay $15 during the day, with a 75% discount at night. Trucks and buses face higher fees, up to $36. Taxis and rideshares like Uber will add $1.25 to $2.50 per ride within the zone. Emergency vehicles, garbage trucks, and school buses are exempt. The tolls aim to reduce traffic and fund public transportation.

News Minimalist

27 Mar 2024 16:23

[6.8] CEO of BlackRock warns of "retirement crisis" due to inadequate savings — The Guardian

Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, warns of a looming retirement crisis due to insufficient savings and longer lifespans. With medical advances like obesity drugs extending life, financial planning hasn't kept pace. By 2050, one in six people will be over 65, up from one in 11 in 2019. Fink highlights the strain on the US retirement system, with full social security benefits at risk by 2034.

News Minimalist

27 Mar 2024 16:23

[7.0] Moderna moves three vaccines into final stage trials — CNBC

Moderna announced positive trial results for three new vaccines, advancing them to final studies. The company seeks to diversify beyond its sole Covid vaccine, with demand for Covid shots dropping. Moderna's portfolio, potentially worth $52 billion, includes vaccines for norovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and a virus causing shingles. They also have a next-gen Covid vaccine and a flu shot in late-stage trials.

News Minimalist

23 Mar 2024 16:14

[7.2] Russia arrests four alleged gunmen over concert hall attack near Moscow as death toll rises to 93 — ABC News

In a deadly attack near Moscow, gunmen killed 93 people at Crocus City Hall. Russia arrested 11, including four suspected attackers. ISIS-K claimed responsibility. The incident occurred just before a concert, causing a fire and panic. Security has been increased, and mass gatherings in Moscow are canceled.

News Minimalist

22 Mar 2024 16:12

[6.8] Trump pressured Pence to overturn election results in 2021 — The New York Times

On January 6, 2021, President Trump warned Vice President Pence that certifying the election results would ruin his political future. A White House valet overheard this and testified to the House Jan. 6 Committee in 2022. The valet's account, now public, reveals Trump pressured Pence to reject the results and was indifferent to the Capitol violence, including a civilian being shot.

News Minimalist

22 Mar 2024 16:12

[7.0] UN adopts first resolution on artificial intelligence — The Associated Press

The UN General Assembly unanimously passed a resolution to guide the safe and fair use of artificial intelligence. Sponsored by the USA and backed by 123 countries, it aims to ensure AI respects human rights and benefits all nations. The resolution, supported by all 193 member nations, seeks to bridge the digital gap between rich and poor countries and includes developing nations in AI discussions. It also calls for global consensus on AI governance and encourages the development of safe AI systems, while warning against misuse.

News Minimalist

21 Mar 2024 16:59

[7.2] New emissions standards push for electric vehicles by 2032 — The Associated Press

The Biden administration has introduced new vehicle emissions standards, aiming to reduce greenhouse gases and other pollutants from cars and trucks. These rules, set for model years 2027 to 2032, are less strict initially than first proposed but will nearly match the Environmental Protection Agency's preferred levels by 2032. The EPA estimates that if 56% of new vehicle sales are electric by 2032, it will significantly cut emissions. Currently, EV sales are at 7.6%, up from 5.8% in 2022. The auto industry has welcomed the moderated pace of EV adoption, which aligns with infrastructure and market readiness.

News Minimalist

21 Mar 2024 16:59

[7.3] Global cholera crisis due to vaccine shortage — Voice of America - VOA News

The WHO warns of a global rise in cholera with a vaccine shortage. The disease, spread by contaminated water, can be fatal. The WHO's vaccine group sees shortages lasting two years. Worldwide, cholera kills up to 143,000 annually. Actions include better water access and sanitation. South Korea's EuBiologics can't meet demand, with no new producers until 2025. Cases hit 700,000 in 2023, up from 473,000. Only 17-50 million vaccine doses are expected in 2024, not enough for the millions at risk.

News Minimalist

09 Apr 2024 19:01

[6.9] Google launches global Find My Device network for Android users — TechRadar

Google has launched its Find My Device network globally, starting in the US and Canada. Users can now track offline devices leveraging over a billion Android devices. Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have a unique feature to locate even when shut down or with a dead battery. The network supports Bluetooth tags from Chipolo and Pebblebee, with more brands to be added.

News Minimalist

05 Apr 2024 16:01

[6.9] NASA achieves milestone for engines to power future Artemis missions — NASA

On April 3, NASA successfully completed the last of a 12-test series for certifying new RS-25 engines, essential for future Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond. This milestone allows production of engines by Aerojet Rocketdyne using advanced manufacturing for SLS (Space Launch System) rockets. This series ensures the engines can support greater thrust required for SLS launches, maintaining safety and performance. NASA's Artemis program aims for long-term Moon exploration, setting the stage for Mars missions.

News Minimalist

05 Apr 2024 16:01

[7.0] EPA awards $20 billion for climate projects in disadvantaged communities — The Associated Press

The Environmental Protection Agency awarded $20 billion in grants to select banks and nonprofits for climate projects in disadvantaged areas. These projects include energy-efficient home upgrades and electric vehicle stations. The initiative aims to reduce greenhouse emissions and promote clean energy, with a significant focus on communities traditionally overlooked by investors.

News Minimalist

03 Apr 2024 16:17

[6.8] India's upcoming election faces criticism for stifling opposition — Financial Times

In India, the world's largest democratic election will begin in over two weeks, involving nearly 1 billion voters over 44 days. However, there are concerns about democracy's health due to increased pressure on opposition parties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP has been accused of using state agencies to target rivals, with arrests of opposition leaders like Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and freezing the Indian National Congress's bank accounts. The BJP claims these actions are anti-corruption efforts, not political. The opposition alleges the BJP is unfairly influencing the election, despite leading in polls.

News Minimalist

02 Apr 2024 16:30

[7.0] Terraform Industries converts electricity and air into synthetic natural gas for the first time — TechCrunch

Terraform Industries has created a machine called the Terraformer that makes synthetic natural gas from electricity and air. It's as big as two shipping containers and uses solar power to turn hydrogen and captured CO2 into gas. The startup claims it can make hydrogen for under $2.50 per kilogram and capture CO2 for less than $250 per ton, aiming to match the cost of natural gas. They've made gas that meets utility standards and are planning to scale up production.

News Minimalist

29 Mar 2024 17:09

[6.8] Baltimore begins race to clean up Key Bridge collapse — The Washington Post

The U.S. Navy and Army Corps of Engineers are leading a major cleanup after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. They're using heavy cranes and over 1,100 experts to remove debris and reopen the port. The federal government quickly approved $60 million for Maryland's recovery efforts. The cleanup involves dangerous tasks like cutting steel underwater and handling hazardous materials. Officials have not given a timeline, but experts predict it will take months.

News Minimalist

29 Mar 2024 17:09

[6.9] Russia vetoes UN resolution on North Korean sanction monitoring — The Associated Press

Russia vetoed a U.N. resolution to extend the monitoring of sanctions on North Korea, which could affect efforts to control its nuclear program. The U.N. panel was set to oversee sanctions until Russia's veto stopped it. The vote was 13-1, with China abstaining. Western nations claim Russia wants to hide its weapons purchases from North Korea. The sanctions aimed to cut funds for North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. The panel had been investigating North Korean cyberattacks and sanctions violations.

News Minimalist

29 Mar 2024 17:09

[7.0] Generative AI develops potential new drugs for antibiotic-resistant bacteria — Stanford Medical Center Report

Stanford and McMaster University scientists have developed an AI called SyntheMol to create new drugs against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The AI designed six potential drugs to fight Acinetobacter baumannii, a major resistant pathogen. Their study, published on March 22, shows AI can invent drugs not found in nature. This method goes beyond old ways that searched known drugs, offering a faster path to new antibiotics.

News Minimalist

27 Mar 2024 16:23

[6.9] Earth hit by radiation from rare 'double' X-class solar flare, triggering most powerful geomagnetic storm in 6 years — Livescience.com

Earth was hit by the strongest geomagnetic storm in over six years, caused by a rare double X-class solar flare. This event, signaling the sun's peak activity period, or solar maximum, produced vibrant auroras worldwide. The storm was the result of two sunspots ejecting a coronal mass ejection that weakened Earth's magnetic shield. The last storm of this magnitude occurred in September 2017. These storms can disrupt satellites and power grids.

News Minimalist

23 Mar 2024 16:14

[7.2] DR Congo facing alarming levels of violence, hunger, poverty, disease — Voice of America - VOA News

The World Health Organization warns of alarming levels of hunger, poverty, malnutrition, and disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with 10 million people displaced, 25.4 million facing poverty and hunger, and 6 million children suffering from chronic malnutrition. Floods have affected 2 million people, exacerbating health risks. The country is battling cholera, measles, polio, yellow fever, anthrax, plague, and a growing threat of mpox.

News Minimalist

23 Mar 2024 16:14

[7.4] Russia attacks Ukrainian electrical power facilities — The Associated Press

Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine's power grid leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity. Over 150 drones and missiles targeted energy facilities, including Ukraine's largest hydroelectric plant, which also affected a nuclear power station. The assault, described as the most severe since the war's start in 2022, came after increased Ukrainian strikes in Russia.

News Minimalist

22 Mar 2024 16:12

[7.0] US surgeons transplant pig kidney to live patient in world first — South China Morning Post

Surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital successfully transplanted a modified pig kidney into a 62-year-old man, a first for a living patient. The recipient, Richard Slayman, had a previous human kidney transplant fail. Over 1,400 people at MGH await a kidney. This breakthrough could help many, especially ethnic minorities with high kidney disease rates. Xenotransplantation, the transfer of organs between species, could address organ shortages. Previous pig organ transplants were only in brain-dead patients.

News Minimalist

21 Mar 2024 16:59

[7.1] Biden awards Intel $8.5 billion to boost semiconductor production — The New York Times

President Biden announced a $8.5 billion grant to Intel from the CHIPS Act funds to boost U.S. semiconductor production. This grant, the largest yet under the act, aims to create thousands of jobs and expand Intel's facilities. The CHIPS Act was passed in 2022 to regain U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing. Biden highlighted the potential for job growth in the sector, including positions not requiring a college degree.

News Minimalist

21 Mar 2024 16:59

[7.2] There are already more measles cases in the US this year than all of 2023 — WIRED

In the first 12 weeks of 2024, the U.S. matched or surpassed its total measles cases from 2023, with at least 60 reported cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Medical Association are urging vaccinations as rates drop below the 95% target, and non-medical exemptions are at a peak. Most cases are linked to international travel by unvaccinated individuals. With spring travel and global outbreaks, the risk of spreading measles increases.

News Minimalist

20 Mar 2024 16:39

[6.9] US accelerates asset trading settlement to one day — Financial Times

Starting May 28, the US will shorten the settlement time for trades from two days to one. This change, known as T+1, aims to reduce risk and modernize the system. It was prompted by the GameStop trading frenzy in January 2021. The shift will be a challenge for investors and firms, especially outside the US, due to time zones and currency exchanges. Some may face higher costs and liquidity issues. The move highlights US influence in global financial markets.