Global News
An American Who Has Helped Clear 815,000 Bombs From Vietnam
Chuck Searcy, a former U.S. Army soldier who served in Vietnam in 1968, found his calling in an unexpected encounter at the former battlefield of Khe Sanh in 1992. As he wandered the barren field, home to one of the bloodiest standoffs of the Vietnam War, he stumbled upon two young boys playing near an unexploded rocket. This pivotal moment ignited Searcy's dedication to addressing the lingering aftermath of the conflict. Having previously served as an intelligence analyst, Searcy had been exposed to the stark realities of war and the discrepancy between the information available to soldiers and the misleading narratives fed to the public.
Disillusioned by the war and grappling with doubts about his own character, Searcy felt a profound sense of responsibility to rectify the damage wrought by the conflict. Despite his moral quandaries, this transformative experience led him to dedicate his life to removing unexploded bombs and landmines; they continued to pose a deadly threat to civilians long after the war had ended. With a deep sense of duty and a commitment to reconciliation, Searcy's journey exemplifies the transformative power of personal conviction and the pursuit of redemption in the face of past injustices.
Reviewer: Muriel
May 07, 2024
News from: nyt
Can We Engineer Our Way Out of the Climate Crisis?
A multinational team is inaugurating an audacious project to reshape the Earth's atmosphere. The difficult endeavor involves a machine capable of extracting vast quantities of air, filtering out carbon dioxide, and securely storing these greenhouse gases underground, thwarting their contribution to global warming. Once relegated to the fringes of science fiction, technologies like this are now gaining traction amidst the escalating threats of climate change and the world's failure to curb greenhouse gas emissions. As the severity of the climate crisis becomes increasingly apparent, scientists and investors are embracing these innovative approaches, despite lingering doubts about their efficacy and safety.
This initiative marks the begining of a series of endeavors where humanity is venturing into manipulating nature to combat climate change. From exploring methods to block solar radiation to experimenting with ocean fertilization, these interventions reflect a growing urgency to address the climate emergency. However, these ventures have sparked controversy. Some fear these interventions could trigger unforeseen consequences, disrupting weather patterns or exacerbating human suffering. The ethical question of whether humans should meddle with the environment in this manner looms large, underscoring the need for careful consideration and robust regulation.
Despite the uncertainties and risks, the imperative to act is clear. With global temperatures projected to rise significantly, there is a growing acknowledgment that bold measures are needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Whether these ambitious endeavors will prove to be effective solutions or introduce new challenges remains to be seen, but the urgency of the climate crisis demands exploration and innovation on a scale never before imagined.
Reviewer: Muriel
May 07, 2024
News from: nyt
Heat Waves Are Moving Slower and Staying Longer, Study Finds
A recent study reveals that heat waves, exacerbated by climate change, are slowing down and lingering longer, posing significant risks to public health and the economy. Over the past four decades, the rate at which heat waves move has decreased, while their duration has increased by about four days on average. This trend intensifies the exposure to life-threatening temperatures and exacerbates economic slowdowns, crop damage, and wildfire risks.
The study highlights how these changes have become more pronounced since the late 1990s, primarily due to climate change spurred by human activity. While the precise mechanisms behind the slowdown are not fully understood, the weakening of air circulation patterns, such as the jet stream, likely plays a role. Regional variations exist, with Eurasia and North America experiencing longer-lasting heat waves, while South America sees heat waves traveling farther.
Efforts to mitigate the impacts of heat waves include local adaptation strategies like planting trees and creating cooling centers, particularly in urban areas where the urban heat island effect exacerbates heat-related risks. However, global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions remains imperative to address the root causes of climate change and prevent further escalation of heat wave risks. This article is a reminder of the race to slow down the impacts of humans on the environment before it is too late.
Reviewer: Muriel
May 07, 2024
News from: nyt
Politics
One of the world’s biggest cities may be just months away from running out of water
Mexico City is facing a severe water crisis exacerbated by a combination of factors, including geographical challenges, urban development issues, leaky infrastructure, and the impacts of climate change. Residents like Alejandro Gomez are experiencing prolonged water shortages, with intermittent supply that is barely enough for basic needs. The crisis is driven by years of low rainfall, longer dry periods, and high temperatures, which have strained the water system already struggling to meet increased demand. The city's reliance on a centralized water system, coupled with over-extraction from underground aquifers and inefficient water management practices, has worsened the situation. Drought conditions have led to significant reductions in water reserves, particularly in the Cutzamala water system, prompting fears of "day zero" when taps run dry for large parts of the city. While authorities downplay the severity of the crisis, experts warn of escalating tensions and unequal access to water, with wealthier neighborhoods often less affected. Addressing Mexico City's water crisis requires a multifaceted approach that integrates short-term interventions with long-term planning. Solutions proposed include better wastewater treatment, rainwater harvesting, fixing leaks, and implementing nature-based solutions. However, the implementation of these measures is slow, leaving many residents uncertain about the future. Investments in water infrastructure, sustainable resource management, and climate adaptation measures are essential to build resilience and ensure the city's water security in the face of future challenges.
Reviewer: Tijesunimi
May 07, 2024
News from: cnn
For Gazans, Truce Talks Bring Tangle of Emotions
The article discusses the emotional turmoil experienced by Palestinians in Gaza amid conflicting reports about how cease-fire negotiations have progressed between Israel and Hamas. Adam Rasgon writes about how President Biden's suggestion of an imminent cease-fire initially brought hope to Gazans, and how subsequent reports dashed these hopes, leading to frustration and confusion. The United States is pressing for a cease-fire ahead of Ramadan, proposing a deal that includes the release of hostages and the entry of aid. However, negotiations have made little progress, with Israel refusing to send a delegation to talks in Cairo.
Gazans,weary from months of failed talks, oscillate between hope and despair as they await concrete developments. The article highlights the psychological toll of the ongoing conflict on Gazans, particularly amid the uncertainty surrounding cease-fire negotiations. It underscores the precarious situation faced by Palestinians in Gaza who are living in crowded conditions and facing the threat of Israeli invasion. The repeated cycle of hope and disappointment has led to a sense of hopelessness among the population, with many expressing fatigue and disillusionment with the peace process. The article sheds light on the urgent need for a lasting resolution to the conflict to alleviate the suffering of Gazans and bring stability to the region.
Reviewer: Tijesunimi
May 07, 2024
News from: nyt
Shift in Russian Tactics Intensifies Air War in Ukraine
Constant Méheut, reporting from Kyiv, Ukraine, delves into the evolving role of air power in the Ukraine war, noting a shift as the conflict progresses. Initially, air warfare was dominated by Ukraine's limited air fleet and Russia's failure to establish air supremacy. However, as the conflict persists, Russia has increasingly utilized its air force, employing tactics such as dropping guided bombs near front lines to support ground troops. Despite some successes, this strategy comes with risks, including the vulnerability of Russian aircraft to Ukrainian air defenses. The article also discusses claims of Ukrainian shootdowns of Russian planes—though some of these claims are unverified—underscoring the significance of air superiority and the risks and challenges associated with employing air assets in the conflict.
Moreover, the article discusses Ukraine's use of advanced air defense systems, potentially including U.S.-made Patriot systems, to counter Russian airpower. Notably, Ukraine's destruction of Russian A-50 radar planes is cited as a significant achievement, highlighting Ukraine's efforts to counter Russian airpower. The article concludes by questioning Russia's ability to sustain air losses and noting its determination to continue employing all available capabilities in the conflict, offering insight into the evolving dynamics of the Ukraine war, particularly regarding the role of air power. This article sheds light on the broader military strategies and tactics employed by both sides in the conflict, revealing the complexity and intensity of the ongoing warfare; It also raises questions about the sustainability of Russia's air operations' and broader military capabilities amid mounting losses. Overall, the article provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of the conflict and the strategies employed by both parties.
Reviewer: Tijesunimi
May 07, 2024
News from: nyt
Economics
Baltimore bridge collapse calls attention to the growing Latino labor force and the risks they face
The tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore highlighted the dangers faced by Hispanic workers in the construction industry, with most of the victims hailing from Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico. The accident occurred while eight workers were repairing potholes on the bridge's roadway. A large cargo ship was expericing technical issues after it lost power which caused it to accidentally crashed into the bridge, leading the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. This accident resulted in six presumed deaths and families are anxiously await news of their missing loved ones, expressing their grief and longing for closure. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recognizes construction as a high-risk sector, particularly for falling hazards and machinery-related accidents. These risks disproportionately affect Latino workers, who constitute about a third of the industry's workforce. The incident underscores larger issues of workplace safety and immigrant labor exploitation, with recent tragedies in Maryland and Idaho further highlighting the risks faced by Hispanic construction workers. The affected communities mourn the loss of these men, acknowledging their contributions to Baltimore's infrastructure and advocating for better protections for immigrant workers. Despite the tragedy, there's acknowledgment that the quick response prevented a more significant catastrophe, but questions remain about the safety protocols and emergency preparedness in such situations.
Reviewer: Marie
April 25, 2024
News from: nbcnews
McDonald's restaurants suffer global tech outage
McDonald's experienced a widespread technology outage, impacting stores in Japan, Australia, China, Britain, and other parts of Asia and Europe. Many customers feared that the outage was due to a cyberseucrity problem, specifically an online attack. However, the fast-food chain assured customers that the issue, which affected online orders and operations, was not related to cybersecurity. McDonald's Japan and Australia confirmed the disruption of their technology, with many stores temporarily suspending operations. Japan, home to nearly 3,000 McDonald's outlets (behind only to China and the United States), was notably affected. In China, the South China Morning Post reported that mobile ordering and self-ordering kiosks were not functioning due to a computer system failure, prompting customers to order directly at the restaurant counter. However, the issue was resolved later in the day. NBC News reached out to McDonald's for further comment on the outage.
Reviewer: Marie
April 25, 2024
News from: nbcnews
Struggling Sports Illustrated inks deal to stay afloat following partnership
The owner of Sports Illustrated, Authentic Brands, reached an agreement with Minute Media, a digital media company, to operate the magazine. This agreement follows a period of uncertainty at the company marked by mass layoffs. Authentic Brands had acquired Sports Illustrated in 2019 but terminated the publishing license of The Arena Group in late January, a decision that resulted in significant staffing cuts. Minute Media, known for The Players’ Tribune and FanSided, will now be responsible for overseeing all digital and print editorial operations for Sports Illustrated. They plan to leverage their expertise in premium sports content and technology platforms to continue growing the magazine's media business. Despite recent challenges, including the disclosure of stories written by artificial intelligence, Authentic Brands expressed confidence in Minute Media's ability to uphold Sports Illustrated's legacy and journalistic integrity. As part of the agreement, Authentic Brands also acquired equity in Minute Media. Minute Media's CEO highlighted Sports Illustrated's status as the gold standard in sports journalism and pledged to enhance its visibility, commercial viability, and impact across new and emerging channels while supporting the magazine's team in navigating the evolving media landscape.
Reviewer: Marie
April 25, 2024
News from: nbcnews
SCI & TECH
Totality Is Worth It
In Marina Koren's article "Totality Is Worth It," she paints a vivid picture of the rare and profound experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse. Against the backdrop of modern space exploration, Koren highlights how eclipses offer an unfiltered connection with the cosmos, unlike the processed images and data we often encounter. The article likens “eclipse chasers” to migratory birds, drawn to the path where the moon will entirely block out the sun. In those fleeting moments, spectators witness the surreal dance of light and shadow, with the sun transformed into a radiant pearl-white ring before shifting into a shimmery gold, only to burst forth again in full glory. Koren contrasts this raw experience of totality with the filtered wonders of space provided by technology. While we marvel at Hubble's images of galaxies and the James Webb Space Telescope's discoveries, these visuals are processed for our senses-we can only dream of experiencing them in real-time. Koren explains how infrared data is translated into visible light, a process requiring both accuracy and artistic interpretation. In discussing the discovery of exoplanets and the artist-rendered models based on limited data, Koren emphasizes the role of imagination in our understanding of the cosmos. However, a total solar eclipse requires no such interpretation. It is a direct, visceral experience that needs no expert deciphering.
The article describes the tangible effects of an eclipse—the sudden chill in the air, the hushed silence of nature, and the awe-inspiring view of the sun's corona peeking from behind the moon. In these moments, observers are acutely aware of the celestial mechanics at play, reminding us of the dynamic and interconnected nature of our solar system. Koren also touches on the privilege of witnessing totality firsthand, acknowledging the financial and logistical barriers that eclipse chasers face. Yet, for those fortunate enough to experience it, totality offers a profound and unforgettable connection to the universe. As someone that was able to view the eclipse firsthand, it is a truly out-of-body experience to be in such close proximity to space’s greatness.
Reviewer: Chidera Ejikeme
May 15, 2024
News from: theatlantic
Drones Could Unite Ranchers and Conservationists
There is great potential for drones as a nonlethal tool to mitigate conflicts between predators and livestock. This piece begins with a surprising encounter in Oregon, where a wolf responds playfully to a drone instead of being scared. However, when the drone was equipped with a speaker emitting human voices, it effectively deterred wolves from approaching cattle, even halting an ongoing attack and saving an animal. Researchers like Jared Beaver from Montana State University see drones as valuable for potential conflict de-escalation. Drones have already proven useful for wildlife surveys and health assessments, reducing the need for risky aerial missions.
The article delves into specific applications, such as using drones alongside existing predator deterrents like range riders, guard dogs, and fladry. Equipped with thermal sensors and AI systems, drones could alert ranchers to potential threats, guide monitoring efforts, and reduce livestock losses. In Oregon, drone flights showed a significant decrease in wolf attacks on cattle. Despite wolves causing a small fraction of cattle deaths, conflicts can be costly and emotionally challenging for ranchers. Mohr emphasizes the potential of drones to minimize the need for lethal control measures, fostering a balance between conservation and ranching interests. Daniel Anderson, a rancher in Montana, shares his experiences using drones to monitor for predators like bears and to observe wildlife behavior. While drones offer valuable insights, Anderson also acknowledges their potential impact on wildlife and the limitations of current drone technology, such as battery life and FAA regulations.
Beaver envisions simplified drones accessible to landowners, likening them to a "Roomba for ranch operations," aiming for solutions beneficial to agriculture and wildlife conservation. However, the article notes challenges such as cost, regulations, and environmental impact that must be navigated for widespread drone adoption.
Reviewer: Chidera Ejikeme
May 15, 2024
News from: theatlantic
Why a Cognitive Scientist Put a Head Cam on His Baby
Sarah Zhang's article explores the fascinating intersection of child development, artificial intelligence (AI), and cognitive science. Brenden Lake, a cognitive scientist at New York University, initiated an intriguing experiment with his daughter, Luna, by outfitting her with a head-mounted camera to capture her perspective as she interacts with her environment. The article details Luna's interactions with her father, where she surprises him by repeating the word "robot" after playing with a puppet. Luna's ability to learn from minimal examples, a feat that current AI models struggle with, sparks Lake's curiosity. He wonders if AI could learn more efficiently, akin to how toddlers like Luna acquire language. Lake enrolls Luna in the BabyView study, led by Michael Frank at Stanford, which aims to record infants' experiences to understand the rapid language acquisition process. The study uses lightweight headcams and microphones to collect data on what babies see and hear, offering insights into how they learn about the world. Lake's research group at NYU analyzes the data from Luna and other babies to train AI models. They find that even with a small percentage of video data, the models can classify objects like balls and cats, mirroring a toddler's early learning process. This proof of concept raises questions about innate learning strategies and biases in infants.
The article also discusses potential AI-inspired insights into child learning. For example, a computer vision model trained on a child's perspective outperformed one trained on a parent's perspective in a study by Chen Yu at the University of Austin. This finding suggests that children might manipulate objects more thoroughly, offering new hypotheses for further research. Lake's interest in creating AI that learns more like humans, particularly children, stems from the remarkable learning abilities of young minds. However, as Zhang explores, understanding the intricacies of child learning remains a complex and intuitive process. Despite the advancements in AI and cognitive science, the mystery of how children learn continues to intrigue researchers.
Reviewer: Chidera Ejikeme
May 15, 2024
News from: theatlantic
