In Borneo's rainforests, people and wild pigs are fundamentally linked

Introduction Developments in human social, economic, and cultural life are highly dependent on the changing geographical landscapes around them. Landscapes that range from hunting grounds to port cities to aesthetic values are all fundamental components of the human-ecological relationship. This article will delve into the many facets of this interdependent relationship, exploring how biophysical landscapes shape human landscapes while also discussing how humans are constantly reshaping their environment to suit their needs. Hunting Grounds One of the most immediate ways human society is shaped by its environment is through the tradition of hunting. Hunting grounds have long been focal points of human life, with essential parts of specific cultures – such as the Australian Aborigines, for example – revolving around the practice.1 Hunting grounds are often located in areas that are abundant with resources, providing a steady supply of sustenance for those who rely on them.2 Not only do the resources of the landscape shape the hunting grounds, but the geography of the area also plays an important role in the success of the hunt.3 Wind direction, terrain, and even the time of day can be exploited to the hunter’s advantage, allowing him/her to silently approach prey and increase their chances of a successful hunt.4 Even if the hunter does not rely upon the resources of the landscape, the physical features offered by the environment can serve as an invaluable tool. Port Cities The development of port cities is another example of the intertwining of physical geography and human development. With waterways providing access to vast areas of the world, port cities have become hubs of trade and transportation. In areas of Europe and the Mediterranean, for example, the Mediterranean Sea has allowed for the formation and growth of various port cities along its coastline.5 Port cities also dominate the landscape of large bodies of water such as oceans and seas, providing transport and access to places that would otherwise be inaccessible by land travel. Such cities serve an important role in the development of human societies. They allow for the spread of ideas and cultures between distant lands, while also providing a platform for trade between two continents.6 Aesthetic Values The aesthetic values linked to nature, however, provide an equally important role in the relationship between the human and the ecological.7 The importance of nature to the human experience is reflected in its presence – or lack thereof – in popular culture,8 as well as its integration into our daily lives. From the sublime panoramas of lakes and mountains, to the serene beauty of a calm sunset, nature provides us with an almost innumerable realm of aesthetic beauty. Not only do these aesthetic values exist independently of mankind, but they can also be influenced by it. Man-made structures like roads, bridges, and buildings have become some of the most iconic images of our natural landscape,9 and can often be seen as an example of how our environment can be shaped to the human desire for beauty. Conclusion The relationship between ecological and social landscapes is a complex one, filled with many layers of influence and development. From hunting grounds and port cities to the aesthetic value of nature, the influences of the environment on the evolution of human life is omnipresent. This article has explored the various roles of biophysical landscapes in the development of human society, and how, in turn, humans are manipulating and shaping their environment for their own benefit. It is clear that the relationship between humans and the environment is a complex one and, as this article hopes to have demonstrated, one that is highly interdependent.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/in-borneos-rainforests-people-and-wild-pigs-are-fundamentally-linked

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Eco-friendly underwater cleaning of ship hulls

Introduction Biofouling, the growth of algae, mussels and other marine organisms, is one of the most costly problems facing shipping vessels. Marine biofouling occurs when aquatic organisms settle and attach themselves to the surface of a vessel. This, in turn, increases drag, fuel consumption and the release of CO2 emissions. The problem is further compounded by mechanical cleaning, which can damage the hull coating, resulting in the release of invasive species, or even parts of the ship’s coating, into the surrounding water. In this article, we discuss the causes and impacts of biofouling, as well as potential solutions and preventive measures. What is Biofouling? Biofouling is the accumulation of organic matter on the surface of a vessel. This organic matter consists of organisms such as algae, barnacles, mussels and other marine animals that attach themselves to the ship's hull and increase the drag force. This biological fouling increases the amount of power required to move the vessel, resulting in higher fuel consumption and increased CO2 emissions. In addition to increasing drag, biofouling can also cause mechanical damage to the hull coating, as well as allowing organisms or parts of the ship's coating to enter the water. Causes of Biofouling Various factors contribute to the growth of marine organisms on the hull of a vessel. The most common cause of biofouling is the presence of nutrient-rich water, which can provide a suitable environment for the growth of marine organisms. Additionally, the speed of the vessel, the type of hull material, and the presence of dirt, oils and other materials on the hull can also contribute to biofouling. Impacts of Biofouling As mentioned above, biofouling increases the drag force of a vessel, requiring more power to move the vessel and thus increasing fuel consumption and emissions. In addition to the economic costs, biofouling can also have serious environmental impacts. Mechanical cleaning can damage the hull coating, resulting in the release of organisms or particles into the surrounding water, which can be damaging to the local aquatic ecosystem. Solutions and Preventive Measures The most effective way to prevent or reduce biofouling is to reduce the nutrient levels in the water through improved operational practices and water pollution control measures. Additionally, vessels can be treated with biocides to inhibit the growth of fouling organisms. Physical cleaning of the vessel can also be used to remove existing biofouling. However, this should be done carefully as mechanical cleaning can damage the hull coating, resulting in the release of organisms or particles into the surrounding water. Conclusion Biofouling is a costly and potentially damaging problem faced by shipping vessels. In addition to increasing drag and fuel consumption, biofouling can also cause mechanical damage to the hull coating and can release organisms or particles into the surrounding water. The best way to prevent and reduce biofouling is to reduce water pollution and nutrient levels, as well as using biocides and careful mechanical cleaning. By taking these steps, the environmental and economic impacts of biofouling can be minimised.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/eco-friendly-underwater-cleaning-of-ship-hulls

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Commentary: War in Ukraine accelerates global drive toward killer robots

Autonomous Weapons Proliferate as U.S. Military Intensifies Commitment Recent developments in the world of military technology have reshaped the way countries approach the use of autonomous weapons. On Jan. 25, 2023, the United States Department of Defense updated an existing directive that focuses on artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous weapons for the first time in 10 years. Less than half a year prior, on Oct. 13, 2022, NATO released an implementation plan designed to ensure the continued “technological edge” of its nations in the use of these so-called “killer robots.” The proliferation of autonomous weapons has been an ongoing concern for the international community for many years. In 2020, the country of Iraq was accused of using autonomous weapons in a conflict with its neighbors. This sparked a moral debate over the legality of such weapons and the potential negative implications they could have on the battlefield. This debate has only intensified in recent years as more countries, including the United States, have pursued the development of autonomous weapons systems. The US Department of Defense’s updated directive, released in Jan. 2023, outlines the goals and objectives of the US military’s commitment to autonomous weapons systems. Most notably, the directive states that the development of autonomous weapons systems must be done in a way that “minimizes the risk of unintended harm” and “maximizes the potential for mission success.” The document also stresses the need for international cooperation in order to “ensure the responsible use of AI-enabled systems” and “prevent an arms race in the development and use of autonomous weapons.” At the same time, NATO has released its own implementation plan, with the intention of preserving the “technological edge” of its members in the use of autonomous weapons. The plan calls for closer international cooperation and coordination between members on the development and deployment of autonomous weapons. It also emphasizes that all member countries must adhere to the international laws and regulations governing the use of such weapons. Both the US Department of Defense’s updated directive and the NATO implementation plan signal a shift in the way the international community views autonomous weapons. These documents reflect a growing acceptance of these weapons by the US and its allies, as well as an acknowledgement of the need to properly regulate their use. It is clear that the US military is intensifying its commitment to the development and use of autonomous weapons, as evidenced by the updated directive issued by the Department of Defense. This shift in policy is also reflected in NATO’s implementation plan, which calls for closer international cooperation when it comes to regulating and deploying such weapons. Whether the international community can effectively regulate and control the use of autonomous weapons remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the US and its allies are firmly committed to utilizing these weapons. The proliferation of autonomous weapons has been a major source of debate within the international community for many years. This technology has the potential to cause great harm, and it is important that all countries abide by international laws and regulations when it comes to their use. It is also essential that the US and its allies continue to work together in order to ensure the responsible and effective use of these weapons. The recent updates to the US Department of Defense directive and NATO’s implementation plan signal a commitment to properly regulating the use of autonomous weapons, and represent an important step forward in the international community’s efforts to control the proliferation of these weapons.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/commentary-war-in-ukraine-accelerates-global-drive-toward-killer-robots

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Illinois Supreme Court allows massive damages in biometric privacy cases but says lawmakers should weigh in

Introduction On Friday, the Illinois Supreme Court released a long-awaited opinion about the state's biometric privacy law, presenting an opportunity for substantial damages in cases where companies violate the privacy rights of Illinois residents. The decision also implies that state lawmakers ought to review the law and address any ambiguities. What is the Illinois Biometric Privacy Law? The Illinois Biometric Privacy Act (BIPA) was established in 2008. Under the law, companies who utilize biometric identifiers or information (such as fingerprints, irises, and voice recordings) to identify or authenticate a particular person must adhere to a strict set of rules. These rules include providing written disclosures to the individual and obtaining their written consent before collecting the biometric information. Companies are also required to inform the individual of the length of time during which the information will be stored, how it will be used, and what security safeguards are being employed. The purpose of BIPA is to protect an individual’s biometric data and ensure that it is only used in the manner for which it was intended. In the event that a company fails to meet the above requirements, a private individual can bring a civil lawsuit in state court against the company for damages. The Illinois Supreme Court's Recent Opinion On Friday, the Illinois Supreme Court issued an opinion in the matter of Rosenbach v. Six Flags Entertainment Corp., addressing whether a company’s collection of biometric information from a plaintiff violated BIPA. The opinion was issued in response to a complaint filed by the plaintiff claiming that Six Flags had failed to comply with the law. In the opinion, the court found that even though Six Flags had not obtained the plaintiff’s written consent, the company had still violated the statute. The opinion stated that BIPA provides an individual with a right of action and allows them to seek damages of $1,000 for each negligent violation, or $5,000 for each intentional or reckless violation of the statute. The opinion also suggested that the state legislature ought to revisit the issue in order to clarify any ambiguities in the law. Implications of the Illinois Supreme Court's Opinion The opinion issued by the Illinois Supreme Court will have far-reaching implications for companies in the state who utilize biometric information. In the past, the law has been criticized for being overly broad and potentially stifling growth in the biometric technology industry. The court’s opinion presents a clear reminder to companies that they must comply with the law in order to avoid costly litigation and potential damages. The opinion also suggests that it is time for lawmakers to review and possibly revise the law, in order to ensure that it strikes a balance between protecting individuals’ privacy rights and providing companies the necessary leeway to safely utilize biometric information. Conclusion The opinion issued by the Illinois Supreme Court on the state's biometric privacy law is a clear reminder that companies must comply with the law in order to avoid potential damages. The opinion also implies that state lawmakers ought to review the law and address any ambiguities in order to protect individuals' privacy rights and provide companies the necessary leeway to safely utilize biometric information. Overall, the opinion may have significant implications for biometric technology in the state of Illinois.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/illinois-supreme-court-allows-massive-damages-in-biometric-privacy-cases-but-says-lawmakers-should-weigh-in

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We developed an algorithm to massively improve hydrogen fuel cell imaging and water modeling

Introduction Hydrogen fuel cells have been a major focus of research and development in recent years due to their potential to revolutionize energy production and storage. The goal of these fuel cells is to use a combination of hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity without the use of conventional fuels. The technology has been met with great enthusiasm, but progress has been hindered by the difficulty in producing images of the fuel cells with accurate detail. Recently, a research team at the University of Colorado Boulder developed a new algorithm that is capable of taking images of hydrogen fuel cells and dramatically enhancing their resolution and quality. This algorithm utilizes machine learning to accurately identify subtle differences in the images and provide improved results. The implications of this development are that medical scanners can use higher-resolution images of hydrogen fuel cells to gain a more detailed understanding and aid in diagnosis. The Challenges of Hydrogen Fuel Cells Hydrogen fuel cells have been the subject of intensive research and development in recent years, due to their potential to revolutionize energy production and storage. To produce electricity, these fuel cells use a combination of hydrogen and oxygen, relying on a chemical reaction to generate energy. Unlike traditional energy sources, hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity without burning any fuel, making them an attractive solution for reducing emissions and improving overall efficiency. However, the technology has been met with significant challenges. In particular, the difficulty of producing images of the fuel cells with accurate detail has been a major roadblock in their development. The Algorithm Recently, a research team at the University of Colorado Boulder developed a new algorithm that is capable of dramatically improving images of hydrogen fuel cells. This algorithm utilizes machine learning to accurately identify subtle differences in the images and provide improved results. At the heart of the algorithm is a set of algorithms that can accurately detect even the slightest differences in the images of hydrogen fuel cells. This allows the algorithm to improve the resolution and quality of the images by a considerable amount, making them much easier to analyze and interpret. The Benefits The development of this algorithm will have a number of far-reaching benefits. Perhaps the most important application is in medical scanners, where higher-resolution images of hydrogen fuel cells can be used to gain a more detailed understanding and aid in diagnosis. In addition to medical applications, the algorithm could be used for industrial purposes, such as monitoring fuel cells in power plants and analyzing their performance over time. The improved resolution of the images would allow engineers to get a better handle on what is going on inside the fuel cells, giving them a better understanding of how to optimize their operation. Conclusion The development of this new algorithm is a significant milestone in the progress of hydrogen fuel cells. The improved resolution of the images produced by the algorithm will make it easier to analyze and interpret the data, leading to further progress in the technology. Applications in medical scanning and industrial monitoring will also benefit from the improved resolution. Ultimately, this development will lead to a better understanding of hydrogen fuel cells and their potential to revolutionize our energy production and storage.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/we-developed-an-algorithm-to-massively-improve-hydrogen-fuel-cell-imaging-and-water-modeling

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Researchers aim to bring humans back into the loop as AI use and misuse rises

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked about topics in the world today. From self-driving cars to savvy personal assistants, AI has become a major part of everyday life. Progress in this rapidly evolving field is happening at a dizzying pace, transforming the way business is done, and yet the potential negative implications for society are an afterthought. In this article, we will explore both sides of the coin: the incredible potential of AI as well as the possible pitfalls. The Potential Business Benefits of AI The captivating opportunities that AI presents for businesses are difficult to ignore. With the power to automate mundane tasks, streamline operations, improve customer experience, and offer insights derived from Big Data, AI can make the most complex business processes easier and more efficient. For example, AI-enabled chatbots can improve customer service by automating customer queries and providing timely answers. AI can also be used to develop products faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. For example, AI-based natural language processing (NLP) has enabled companies across industries to develop applications that recognize and respond to everyday language. AI-based automated decision-making can also help businesses get ahead by allowing them to quickly offer customized products that are based on customer segmentation and predictive analytics. The potential to increase revenue, accelerate innovation, and reduce costs makes AI an attractive proposition for businesses looking to stay ahead of their competition. The Downsides of AI While the potential business benefits of AI have made it an attractive proposition for many, there are also serious considerations to be made about the ethical and social implications. The first concern is related to job security. As AI-automated tasks become more and more prevalent, there could be a significant impact on the number and types of jobs available in the future. This could result in greater poverty, as well as a decrease in consumer spending, which could have a rippling effect on the economy. The impact of AI on privacy is also a major concern. Companies are collecting and storing an unprecedented amount of data on their customers, and AI algorithms are being used to analyze and interpret this data. This raises questions of who owns this data and how it will be used. Finally, AI presents issues related to bias, accountability, and trust. AI algorithms are often developed with incomplete or biased data sets, which can lead to inaccurate results. At the same time, current legal frameworks for AI are inadequate for holding tech companies and AI developers accountable for the decisions that AI algorithms make. Conclusion AI presents an exciting new future that could open up tremendous possibilities for businesses, but we must also be mindful of the potential pitfalls. We must strive to create an ethical and responsible framework for AI development and demand that tech companies and AI developers take these social implications seriously. Only then will we be able to truly realize the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/researchers-aim-to-bring-humans-back-into-the-loop-as-ai-use-and-misuse-rises

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Are digital humans the employees of the future?

Introduction The advent of artificial intelligence has made it possible for digital humans to enter the workforce, replacing human workers in many roles. Digital humans are computer-generated people who can take on the role of sales reps, presenters, trainers, and even influencers in social media. These digital humans are vastly different from traditional AI, outperforming it in natural language processing, facial recognition, and even emotions. As they become ubiquitous, they are impacting how we work, how we interact with each other, and how we do business. What Are Digital Humans? Digital humans are computer-generated people, sometimes referred to as “virtual humans” or “synthetic humans”. They are created using advanced computer graphics and artificial intelligence, making them indistinguishable from real people. Digital humans are incredibly versatile, and can take on tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They can be used for sales assistance, customer service, multimedia presentation, training, and social media influencer campaigns. The Benefits of Digital Humans One of the primary benefits of digital humans is that they are available 24/7. Digital humans never need to take a break, meaning they can answer customer inquiries, give presentations, and engage in conversations at any time of the day or night. They can also be deployed virtually anywhere, meaning they don't need to be stationed in a physical office or store. Additionally, digital humans can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a great choice for businesses aiming to reach global audiences. Finally, digital humans can stay on-brand at all times, giving you peace of mind that your campaigns are always consistent and professional. The Downsides of Digital Humans As with any technology, there are some drawbacks to digital humans. The biggest concern is that digital humans can lead to the displacement of human workers, which can have serious consequences for people who rely on those jobs for their livelihood. It is also important to consider the ethical implications of digital humans, as some people may feel uneasy about interacting with them. Finally, creating realistic digital humans can be costly and time-consuming, meaning businesses may need to make a substantial investments in order to use them. Conclusion Digital humans are becoming increasingly popular in the workforce, as they can complete tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They are available 24/7, can be deployed virtually anywhere, and can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a valuable asset to any business. That being said, they also come with some drawbacks, such as the potential to displace human workers and the ethical questions raised by their use. Ultimately, businesses must weigh the pros and cons and decide whether or not digital humans are right for them.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/are-digital-humans-the-employees-of-the-future

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Epidemiologist answers questions about the bivalent booster

When vaccines for COVID-19 rolled out in late 2020, people of all ages rushed to get in line. We flaunted our vaccination cards on social media and helped find appointments for friends and family.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/epidemiologist-answers-questions-about-the-bivalent-booster

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Mysterious brain activity in mice watching a movie could help tackle Alzheimer's, improve AI

Even the legendary filmmaker Orson Welles couldn't have imagined such a plot twist.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/mysterious-brain-activity-in-mice-watching-a-movie-could-help-tackle-alzheimers-improve-ai

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European big cat population threatened with extinction as genetics show the population is near collapse

Scientists warn that if action isn't taken soon, the Eurasian lynx will vanish from France. This elusive wild cat, which was reintroduced to Switzerland in the 1970s, moved across the French border by the end of the decade. But a genetic study published in Frontiers in Conservation Science showed that the lynx population in France is in desperate need of help to survive.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/european-big-cat-population-threatened-with-extinction-as-genetics-show-the-population-is-near-collapse

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First nonhuman primate model of Usher syndrome confirmed

Those with Usher Syndrome—the leading hereditary cause for simultaneous deafness and blindness, for which there is no treatment—may have a new reason for hope now that researchers have confirmed the first-ever nonhuman primate model of their disease.
https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/first-nonhuman-primate-model-of-usher-syndrome-confirmed

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