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Technology News

Breaking news and analysis from the world of technology

A carbohydrate revolution is fueling cyclists in the Tour de France

Summary

A new focus on carbohydrate intake is helping cyclists in the Tour de France. Elite cyclists eat lots of calories each day to compete effectively in the race.

Key Facts

  • Cyclists in the Tour de France are using carbohydrates to boost their energy.
  • Carbohydrates are nutrients found in foods like bread, pasta, and fruits.
  • Elite cyclists consume thousands of calories every day during the race.
  • This high-calorie intake helps them maintain energy and endurance.
  • Tim Podlogar studies exercise metabolism and discussed this strategy in an interview.
  • The strategy of increasing carbohydrates is referred to as a "carbohydrate revolution."
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Thailand recalls ambassador to Cambodia amid border tensions

Thailand recalls ambassador to Cambodia amid border tensions

Summary

Thailand has recalled its ambassador to Cambodia and will expel the Cambodian ambassador after a Thai soldier was injured by a landmine on the disputed border. Thailand claims new landmines were planted, while Cambodia denies it. The border dispute has led to border closures and strained relations between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • A Thai soldier was injured and lost his leg from a landmine on the Thailand-Cambodia border.
  • Thailand has decided to expel Cambodia's ambassador and recall its own from Cambodia.
  • The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a formal protest, saying new landmines were found.
  • Cambodia denies placing new mines and claims Thai soldiers strayed into areas with old mines.
  • Thailand has closed border checkpoints under its Second Army's control.
  • The Emerald Triangle area, where Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos meet, has seen previous military clashes.
  • The incident has affected trade, with Cambodia blocking Thai imports of fuel and certain foods.
  • A political crisis in Thailand has developed, involving the Prime Minister's suspension amid the dispute.
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Backlash grows after Zelensky strips anti-corruption bodies of independence

Backlash grows after Zelensky strips anti-corruption bodies of independence

Summary

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine signed a law that decreases the independence of two anti-corruption agencies, leading to public protests. The law makes these agencies answerable to the prosecutor general, who is chosen by the president. Many Ukrainians and critics fear this change may weaken efforts against corruption and impact the country's relationship with the European Union.

Key Facts

  • President Zelensky signed a law on Tuesday that reduces the independence of two anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine.
  • The law gives control of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office to the prosecutor general.
  • The prosecutor general is appointed by the president, giving the president more influence over these agencies.
  • Thousands of Ukrainians protested against this law, gathering in Kyiv and other cities despite ongoing Russian attacks.
  • Fighting corruption is critical for Ukraine's efforts to move closer to the European Union.
  • Anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine were established as part of agreements with the European Commission and International Monetary Fund.
  • Critics argue that the law could slow down or block current investigations into corruption.
  • Ukraine has been striving to improve its image in the Corruption Perceptions Index, although it still ranks low globally.
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Author asks ChatGPT for advice on her book about tech — here's what it said

Summary

A technology author, Vauhini Vara, used ChatGPT to get advice on her book about how technology impacts our lives. She looked into the feedback from the AI to understand its strengths, weaknesses, and biases.

Key Facts

  • Vauhini Vara is writing a book called "Selfhood in the Digital Age."
  • The book discusses how technology helps and takes advantage of people.
  • Vara asked ChatGPT, an AI program, for advice on her book.
  • She analyzed how the AI gave feedback to learn more about what it can and cannot do.
  • Vara also wanted to find out if the AI had any biases in its feedback.
  • The feedback and analysis were part of exploring the abilities of AI chatbots.
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M&S ad banned over 'unhealthily thin' model

M&S ad banned over 'unhealthily thin' model

Summary

An advertisement by Marks & Spencer was banned because the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) found the model in the ad appeared unhealthily thin. The ASA stated that the model's pose and the clothes emphasized her thinness, making the ad irresponsible.

Key Facts

  • The ASA banned a Marks & Spencer ad due to concerns about the model looking unhealthily thin.
  • The model's pose and clothing, including pointed shoes, highlighted her slender legs.
  • M&S withdrew the ad and must ensure future ads do not show models as being unhealthily thin.
  • The ASA noted the model’s head appeared too large compared to her body, stressing her thinness.
  • M&S said the model's pose was meant to show confidence, not focus on her slimness.
  • The retailer claimed the selected shoes were purely for fashion purposes.
  • While the ASA reviewed other M&S ads, only this particular one was banned.
  • M&S ensures all models are healthy and meet industry standards.
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BBC goes inside rebel-held city in DR Congo

BBC goes inside rebel-held city in DR Congo

Summary

M23 rebels took control of Goma, a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, six months ago. Signs of normal life are returning, but many women are still dealing with the effects of sexual violence from the conflict. A BBC reporter visited Goma to see the situation firsthand.

Key Facts

  • The M23 rebel group controlled Goma, a city in eastern DR Congo, for six months.
  • Goma is showing signs of returning to normal life.
  • During the conflict, many women in Goma were sexually assaulted.
  • The fighting involved M23 rebels and the Congolese army.
  • A BBC journalist, Paul Njie, visited Goma to report on current conditions.
  • The visit aimed to observe changes and recovery efforts in the city.
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‘Unbearable’: Ukrainians deported by Russia, stranded at Georgia border

‘Unbearable’: Ukrainians deported by Russia, stranded at Georgia border

Summary

More than 90 Ukrainians deported from Russia are stuck in a basement at the Georgia-Russia border, unable to return to Ukraine or enter Georgia. They have been there for nearly two months due to border restrictions and have protested against the poor conditions, claiming mistreatment and lack of medical care.

Key Facts

  • Over 90 Ukrainians are stuck at the Georgia-Russia border after being deported from Russia.
  • They are held in a basement and can only go outside to use the toilet with supervision.
  • The deportees can't return to Ukraine or enter Georgia due to border restrictions and criminal records.
  • Some individuals have been in the basement for almost two months.
  • Men and a few women, many of whom were former prisoners in Russia, make up the group.
  • A protest occurred on July 20, where one man harmed himself and was treated but not hospitalized.
  • Approximately 800 deportees are thought to be in similar situations at Russian-Georgian border points.
  • The detainees say they face terrible living conditions and a lack of proper medical care.
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Why were bankers' convictions quashed and what happens next?

Why were bankers' convictions quashed and what happens next?

Summary

Two former bankers, Tom Hayes and Carlo Palombo, had their convictions for manipulating interest rates overturned by the UK's Supreme Court. The court found their trials were unfair, and their convictions were ruled "unsafe." After serving jail time, both may seek compensation for the time they spent imprisoned.

Key Facts

  • Tom Hayes and Carlo Palombo were once convicted for manipulating the interest rates used by banks.
  • These interest rates affected the borrowing costs for things like mortgages and other loans.
  • Hayes was sentenced to 14 years initially but served half of an 11-year sentence; Palombo was jailed for four years.
  • They argued that trying to influence interest rates was common practice at the banks they worked for.
  • Their convictions were overturned after the Supreme Court found their trials were not fair.
  • Other similar cases in the U.S. were also dismissed as not crimes.
  • The Serious Fraud Office decided not to retry their case.
  • Hayes may seek compensation for money taken during his legal battle.
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A genetic tweak could prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria

A genetic tweak could prevent mosquitoes from transmitting malaria

Summary

Researchers have found a way to block mosquitoes from spreading malaria by changing one tiny part of their genetic code. This change makes the mosquitoes mostly unable to pass the malaria parasite to humans. Scientists hope to spread this change across mosquito populations to reduce malaria cases, but more studies and approvals are needed before it can be used widely.

Key Facts

  • Malaria infects 263 million people each year.
  • Scientists modified mosquitoes' DNA to stop them from carrying the malaria parasite.
  • The change affects one amino acid and makes mosquitoes largely resistant to the parasite.
  • The study is published in the journal "Nature."
  • The method uses a gene drive to pass the genetic change to most offspring, which is different from typical inheritance.
  • Researchers plan to test this in the field, but it will take several years and need community and government approvals.
  • Gene drives are controversial due to potential long-term and unpredictable effects on ecosystems.
  • Some worry that gene drives could permanently alter mosquitoes and disrupt ecological balances.
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Faisal Islam: Trump's tough tariff tactics are getting results

Faisal Islam: Trump's tough tariff tactics are getting results

Summary

The U.S. and Japan have reached a trade deal after long negotiations. This agreement is part of President Trump's strategy using tariffs to negotiate better terms with trade partners, and Japan's deal could influence other major economies.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Japan have agreed on a trade deal after extensive discussions.
  • A 15% tariff will be applied to Japanese goods imported to the U.S.
  • Japan holds $1.1 trillion in U.S. Treasury bonds, the largest by any country.
  • The agreement stops possible joint retaliation by Japan, the EU, and Canada.
  • Japan will import more U.S. rice while protecting its agricultural imports overall.
  • Japan's private companies plan to invest half a trillion dollars in the U.S.
  • U.S. tariffs are raising significant revenue, expected to reach $300 billion annually.
  • These tariffs could lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers on imported goods.
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Texas lawmakers review catastrophic floods but say they aren’t out to assign blame

Texas lawmakers review catastrophic floods but say they aren’t out to assign blame

Summary

Texas lawmakers are reviewing the July 4 floods that killed at least 136 people to find ways to prevent future disasters, without assigning blame. The floods in the Texas Hill Country and the proposed redrawing of U.S. House maps are the main topics for the state's special session this summer.

Key Facts

  • The review of the July 4 floods aims to improve flood prevention and preparedness, not to blame local officials.
  • At least 136 people died in the floods, with two still missing, and many initially unaccounted for were later found safe.
  • The review includes testimony from state and county emergency officials, excluding Kerr County officials to let them focus on their duties.
  • Kerr County, heavily affected by the floods, lacked a warning system for river flooding.
  • Proposed legislation includes improving early warning systems and providing relief funding.
  • The special legislative session will also address redrawing U.S. House maps to potentially increase Republican seats.
  • Democrats want flood issues resolved before voting on congressional maps and may use walkouts to protest.
  • Texas officials have threatened penalties for lawmakers who attempt to disrupt the special session through tactics like walkouts.
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The night Iran struck Qatar

The night Iran struck Qatar

Summary

On June 23rd, Iran carried out the biggest missile strike in the Gulf's history by targeting Qatar. The attack highlighted how quickly missiles can travel, taking only 120 seconds to reach their target.

Key Facts

  • Iran launched a missile attack on Qatar on June 23rd.
  • It is considered the largest missile strike in Gulf history.
  • The missiles took only about 120 seconds to reach their target.
  • Al Jazeera’s Arabic Digital newsroom reported on the event.
  • The report focused on the timing and speed of the missiles' impact.
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Skeleton in Guatemalan jungle likely US birdwatcher missing since 2023

Skeleton in Guatemalan jungle likely US birdwatcher missing since 2023

Summary

Human bones were discovered in the Guatemalan jungle near an archaeological site. Officials believe the bones may belong to Raymond Vincent Ashcroft, a U.S. birdwatcher who went missing in February 2023. Clothes found with the bones match the ones Ashcroft wore when he disappeared, and DNA tests will confirm if the remains are his.

Key Facts

  • Human bones were found 14 kilometers from the Tikal archaeological site in Guatemala.
  • Clothes found with the bones match those worn by Raymond Vincent Ashcroft when he disappeared.
  • Ashcroft, 66, went missing in February 2023 while visiting Tikal with a birdwatching group.
  • His wife reported him missing after he did not return to their hotel.
  • Search efforts, including sniffer dogs, began soon after Ashcroft was reported missing but were unsuccessful.
  • The remains were found within dense jungle vegetation and required traveling on foot to reach.
  • Officials plan to use DNA tests to confirm if the bones are Ashcroft's.
  • Other tourists have gone missing in the national park area before, with some outcomes being fatal.
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Apple and Google have 'effective duopoly' in UK says regulator

Apple and Google have 'effective duopoly' in UK says regulator

Summary

Apple and Google might need to change some of their mobile services in the UK because the UK's competition watchdog, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), says they have too much control over the market. The CMA is looking into their app stores, operating systems, and web browsers, and has suggested that both companies have an "effective duopoly," meaning they largely control the market and limit competition.

Key Facts

  • The CMA is investigating how Apple and Google run their app stores, operating systems, and web browsers.
  • According to the CMA, Apple and Google control almost all mobile platforms in the UK, creating an "effective duopoly."
  • The CMA can require changes if companies have too much market power according to a new law.
  • Apple and Google have been given a month to respond to the CMA before a decision is finalized.
  • If the CMA's decision is finalized, Apple and Google may need to make changes to promote competition and consumer choice.
  • Apple is concerned that these changes might weaken user privacy and security.
  • Google wants any new rules to be based on clear evidence and not hinder growth.
  • Other regulatory investigations into Apple and Google are taking place in the UK, EU, and US.
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WATCH LIVE: Trump reveals ‘AI Action Plan’ shaped by his tech supporters after revoking Biden policy

WATCH LIVE: Trump reveals ‘AI Action Plan’ shaped by his tech supporters after revoking Biden policy

Summary

President Donald Trump is set to announce an "AI Action Plan" which aligns with ideas from tech leaders who supported his campaign. This plan follows his decision to cancel the AI policies introduced by former President Joe Biden.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is introducing an "AI Action Plan."
  • This plan is tied to suggestions from tech industry leaders.
  • Trump's plan will replace AI policies set by former President Biden.
  • The plan may focus on selling AI technology to other countries.
  • It could also simplify building data centers, essential for AI.
  • A person familiar with the plan shared some details without being named.
  • The announcement is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET.
  • The story is ongoing and may have updates.
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Heathrow boss 'frustrated' at being asleep during fire

Heathrow boss 'frustrated' at being asleep during fire

Summary

Heathrow Airport had to stop flights after a fire at a nearby power station in March. The airport's CEO, Thomas Woldbye, missed emergency calls because his phone was on silent. The fire affected 270,000 passengers, and Heathrow might take legal action against the company responsible for the power station.

Key Facts

  • A fire at an electrical substation near Heathrow Airport led to a flight stoppage.
  • 1,300 flights were canceled, affecting 270,000 passengers.
  • Heathrow's CEO, Thomas Woldbye, missed emergency calls due to his phone being on silent mode.
  • The airport's pre-tax profit dropped by 37.2% in the first half of 2025.
  • The fire was caused by a known fault at the substation that National Grid had not fixed since 2018.
  • Heathrow is considering taking legal action against National Grid because of the fire.
  • Thomas Woldbye said he trusted the airport's crisis management even though he was not aware of the incident immediately.
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Appeal to fight food poverty during summer holidays

Appeal to fight food poverty during summer holidays

Summary

A food charity called FareShare Sussex & Surrey is asking for help to fight food poverty during the summer school holidays. The charity supports over 28,500 people weekly and aims to provide food to children at risk of missing meals through a network of charities and community groups.

Key Facts

  • FareShare Sussex & Surrey is a food redistribution charity.
  • They have launched a summer appeal due to expected high demand during school holidays.
  • The charity supports more than 28,500 people every week.
  • They work with 248 charities and community groups.
  • One in five children is at risk of missing meals during the summer holidays.
  • They provided 6.26 million meals last year.
  • The charity saved local organizations £16.5 million in costs last year.
  • Donations help keep their operations running to deliver food to various community services.
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'Sorry, Baby' writer Eva Victor: 'I tried to create a film that I feel like I needed'

'Sorry, Baby' writer Eva Victor: 'I tried to create a film that I feel like I needed'

Summary

"Sorry, Baby" is a new film written, directed, and starring Eva Victor. The movie focuses on the aftermath of a traumatic event and uses humor to explore serious themes. It sold to A24 for around $8 million after creating significant interest at the Sundance Film Festival.

Key Facts

  • "Sorry, Baby" was created by Eva Victor, who wrote, directed, and starred in the film.
  • The film deals with the effects of a traumatic event described as "the bad thing," without showing it on screen.
  • It features a non-linear storyline about a graduate student turned professor named Agnes.
  • The film was bought by A24 for around $8 million after a bidding war.
  • Aside from Eva Victor, the film stars Naomi Ackie, Lucas Hedges, and Louis Cancelmi.
  • Academy Award winner Barry Jenkins produced the film.
  • It had its first limited release in June and expanded to more theaters later.
  • Eva Victor's style includes humor to lighten the heavy subject matter and reflect the surreal nature of trauma.
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Tyler, the Creator's 'DON'T TAP THE GLASS' is a petition for freedom of movement

Tyler, the Creator's 'DON'T TAP THE GLASS' is a petition for freedom of movement

Summary

Tyler, the Creator released his ninth album, "DON'T TAP THE GLASS," which encourages people to dance without fear. The album questions how social media has affected personal expression and invites listeners to reconnect with dance culture in hip-hop.

Key Facts

  • Tyler, the Creator released a new album called "DON'T TAP THE GLASS."
  • The album was released unexpectedly at 6 a.m.
  • It encourages people to dance without worrying about being filmed.
  • Tyler suggests that people are afraid to dance in public because they don't want to be mocked on social media.
  • The album mixes different music styles like house, funk, and R&B.
  • Tyler's music often challenges traditional ideas in hip-hop, like what is considered "cool" or masculine.
  • Hip-hop has deep roots in dance culture, dating back to the origins of breakdancing.
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U.S. probes foreign links to agriculture research to protect food supply

U.S. probes foreign links to agriculture research to protect food supply

Summary

The U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA) is tightening rules on research collaborations with foreign nationals to secure the country's food supply. This includes requiring researchers to reveal any foreign contracts and stopping work with certain countries. Recently, this led to the dismissal of 70 foreign researchers from countries the U.S. considers concerning.

Key Facts

  • The USDA is increasing security around agricultural research to protect the U.S. food supply.
  • New rules require anyone who gets USDA funding to declare connections with foreign entities.
  • Seventy researchers from countries like Syria and Venezuela lost their jobs due to these rules.
  • The "National Farm Security Action Plan" aims to boost U.S. agriculture by reducing foreign involvement.
  • Some experts worry these rules may hurt U.S. innovation in agricultural research.
  • USDA researchers must get approval before working with or publishing papers with foreign nationals.
  • Many foreign nationals in the U.S. hold advanced degrees in sciences, highlighting the potential impact.
  • During fiscal year 2022, the USDA funded $3 billion worth of research.
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