World News Daily(2024-07-17) : 55th Anniversary of Apollo 11 Moon Landing
55th Anniversary of Apollo 11 Moon Landing
55 years ago, NASA launched Apollo 11, marking the first manned moon landing. On July 16, 1969, at 9:32 AM, the mission blasted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew, Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, spent eight days in space. Armstrong and Aldrin walked on the moon, while Collins orbited above.
The mission used a Saturn V rocket, a three-stage behemoth. After launch, the first two stages detached, and the third propelled the craft into Earth's orbit. Half an hour later, the lunar module separated, beginning its journey to the moon.
Armstrong, the mission commander, became the first man on the moon. Initially, there was debate within NASA about who would step onto the lunar surface first. Armstrong's role as commander sealed the decision.
Following Apollo 11, NASA conducted five more successful lunar missions. Apollo 13 faced a near disaster but recovered. The program concluded in 1972.
Today, NASA and Boeing are developing the Space Launch System (SLS), aiming to return humans to the moon. The SLS, along with the Orion spacecraft and SpaceX's Starship, represents the next chapter in lunar exploration. The SLS has already completed its maiden flight in 2022, demonstrating its capability.
ScoresPolitics
Trump Secures Republican Nomination for 2024 Presidential Race
Trump, the former U.S. president, secured the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential race. He selected J.D. Vance, an Ohio senator and former Marine, as his running mate. The Republican National Convention, held in Milwaukee, finalized these nominations. Vance, a writer and venture capitalist, contributes military and political experience to the ticket. The convention also ratified the party's campaign platform.
ScoresAsia's Dominance in Chip Production and Western Efforts to Diversify
Asia's hold on chip production is strengthening as the West grapples with reducing its dependency. Once tech leaders, the U.S. and Europe now account for less than 10% of global chip production. Geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions are prompting governments to enhance local semiconductor manufacturing. The U.S. is offering $39 billion in grants, and the EU has its own initiatives.
However, transitioning chip production is intricate. Asia's dominance is entrenched, with Taiwan and South Korea spearheading high-end semiconductors. U.S. efforts, such as TSMC's Arizona factory, encounter delays and depend on Asian materials and European machinery. Chips produced in the West will still require Asian assembly and testing.
What lies ahead? A partial shift away from Asia, but not a complete one. New Western factories aim to diversify and bolster supply chains, albeit at increased costs. Isolation strategies, like restricting tech exports to China, could rebound, spurring China to innovate more. The chip war is underway, with no clear victor yet.
ScoresElon Musk Moves SpaceX and X to Texas Over California's Transgender Law
Elon Musk announced that SpaceX and X will move their headquarters from California to Texas. This decision follows California's new law preventing schools from notifying parents about a child's gender identity change. Musk criticized the law, calling it the "final straw" for his companies.
Musk's move reflects broader concerns about California's policies affecting families and businesses. His daughter's recent legal name and gender change, dropping the Musk surname, further underscores his stance.
Musk's endorsement of Trump and plans to fund a pro-Trump political action committee suggest alignment with potential rollback of transgender rights. Trump's proposals include halting Medicare and Medicaid funding for gender-affirming care and penalizing teachers for affirming students' gender identities.
Major medical organizations support access to necessary healthcare for transgender adolescents. Musk's relocation of Tesla's headquarters to Austin in 2021 signals a trend away from California's policies.
ScoresEl Salvador's Gang Crackdown Targets Thousands of Children
El Salvador's crackdown on gangs has detained over 3,000 children, some as young as 12. Human Rights Watch reports instances of arbitrary detentions and torture. Since 2022, more than 80,000 arrests have been made, significantly transforming the country from one of the most violent to one of the safest. Homicide rates have dropped dramatically from 103 to 2.4 per 100,000.
However, many of the arrested children have no connections to gangs. They are subjected to overcrowded and poor conditions in prison, often denied legal representation and family contact. Some were initially held with adults before being transferred to juvenile facilities described as "dangerous and dehumanizing."
Over 1,000 children have been convicted, with sentences ranging from two to 12 years, often based on vague charges. Confessions are frequently coerced.
Human Rights Watch is urging for reviews of these cases, particularly those involving children. They are also calling on foreign governments to withhold loans that benefit agencies involved in these abuses.
Despite these abuses, President Bukele remains popular. His re-election, despite constitutional bans, was facilitated by appointed judges. His victory in February's election has further pushed the country towards a one-party state.
ScoresSociety
Craig Wright Faces Investigation for Perjury Over Bitcoin Creation Claims
Judge Mellor of the UK High Court determined that Craig Wright lied and forged documents in his attempt to claim he is Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of Bitcoin. Consequently, Wright's public assertions and legal actions based on this claim are now prohibited. He is required to publish the court's findings on his website and social media platforms. The case has been forwarded to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for consideration of potential criminal charges and the issuance of an arrest warrant.
ScoresNew-generation vehicle systems detect whether the driver is intoxicated through facial recognition.
Australian researchers have developed a vehicle-mounted system that uses cameras to detect if a driver is intoxicated. The system analyzes facial features such as gaze, eyelid, and chin status to predict blood alcohol concentration. Tests show that the system can identify low levels of intoxication in 75% of cases. Compared to traditional methods, this technology can immediately identify intoxication at the start of driving, preventing the vehicle from starting and thereby reducing drunk driving accidents.
ScoresEconomy
Global Smartphone Market Growth: 2.88 Billion Units Shipped in the Second Quarter of 2024
The global smartphone market continues to grow, with shipments reaching 288 million units in the second quarter of 2024, a 12% increase year-over-year. Samsung leads, with Apple closely following. Xiaomi, vivo, and Transsion hold market shares of 15%, 9%, and 9%, respectively. The market remains optimistic, driven by innovative technologies such as Generative AI and a resurgence in demand. Samsung and Apple are focusing on high-end product strategies that incorporate GenAI features.
ScoresApple's Stock Rises as Sales in India Surge and Analysts Raise Target Prices
Apple's stock rose 2% before the US market opened. Sales in the Indian market increased by 33%, reaching $79.6 billion. Morgan Stanley upgraded its rating with a target price of $273. The total market capitalization is $3.6 trillion.
Morgan Stanley estimates that Apple's iPad business revenue is $72 billion, a 23% year-over-year decrease. Citi expects the stock to rise another 30%, with potential for higher gross margins being underestimated.
Apple's market cap once surpassed $3 trillion but was also overtaken by Saudi Aramco. The fourth fiscal quarter revenue fell short of expectations, leading to a post-market decline in stock price.
ScoresGold Prices Surge Amidst Fed Rate Cut Expectations
Gold prices surged, nearing a record high. Investors bet on a Federal Reserve rate cut in September. Spot gold rose 0.7% to $2,438.83 per ounce. Futures climbed 0.6% to $2,443.80.
The Fed's potential rate cuts and softer inflation data boosted gold's appeal. The dollar's weakness also helped. Market expectations include three quarter-point rate cuts this year.
Central banks' gold purchases hit a 50-year high. Geopolitical risks and doubts about USD and EUR safety drive this demand. However, Chinese gold demand remains weak.
Gold mining stocks rallied. The VanEck Gold Miners ETF gained 1.2%. Harmony Gold and Gold Fields shares rose 6% and 4% respectively. DRDGold shares jumped over 5%.
Investors see gold as a safe haven. The market's quick rally on soft U.S. data and dovish Fed expectations reflects this sentiment. UBS strategist Joni Teves sees upside risks for gold prices.
ScoresTikTok Shop's Rapid Growth in Southeast Asia E-commerce
TikTok's e-commerce division, TikTok Shop, has seen a dramatic surge in Southeast Asia. The gross merchandise volume (GMV), which represents the total value of goods sold, leaped from $4.4 billion to $16.3 billion within a year. When combined with Tokopedia, TikTok's share in the $114.6 billion ASEAN market reached 28.4%, placing it second only to Shopee.
TikTok's growth has surpassed that of local heavyweights such as Shopee and Lazada. The app's live-streaming shopping feature has been a key driver of sales, attracting over 8,000 employees. In response, Shopee has increased its investments in live-streaming and logistics.
Despite facing challenges, including a temporary ban in Indonesia, TikTok's strategic partnership with Tokopedia has strengthened its market position. In Indonesia, their combined market share nearly matched that of Shopee.
Momentum Works, the consultancy responsible for these figures, gathered its data from major digital retail platforms across six Southeast Asian countries, integrating paid orders with industry insights.
ScoresGoogle and Microsoft's Energy Consumption Exceeds Many Nations
Google and Microsoft each consumed 24 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity in 2023. This surpasses the energy use of over 100 countries, including Iceland and Ghana. Despite their high energy consumption, these tech giants generate significant wealth, outpacing many nations' GDPs.
Google's revenue reached $3056 billion, contributing $7390 billion to the economy through services like Google Search and YouTube. Microsoft earned $2119 billion, with its products like Windows and Office influencing trillions.
Comparatively, countries like Azerbaijan and Slovakia, with similar energy usage, have much lower GDPs. Azerbaijan's GDP is around $780 billion, and Slovakia's is about $1270 billion.
Both companies lead in renewable energy adoption. Google aims for carbon-free operations by 2030 and has been carbon-neutral since 2007. Microsoft plans negative carbon emissions by 2030, aiming to remove more carbon than it emits.
This highlights the need for sustainable practices in tech, despite their economic contributions.
ScoresTechnology
iOS 18 Public Betas Released with New Features
Apple has released public betas of iOS 18. New features include a customizable Home Screen, a redesigned Photos app, enhanced Messages with emoji Tapbacks, and early access to Tap to Cash in Wallet. A notable missing feature is Apple Intelligence, an AI integration, which will be introduced later. Users can revert to older OS versions except on Apple Watch. Exciting additions like head nod commands for Siri with AirPods Pro 2 are also included.
ScoresToddle Raises $4.3M to Revolutionize Software Development with No-Code Platform
Toddle, a Danish startup, aims to revolutionize software building with a no-code platform. Founded by Andreas Møller and Kasper Svenning, Toddle offers a visual interface for designers and developers to collaborate in real-time. The platform mimics the capabilities of JavaScript frameworks like React, allowing users to create SaaS apps without coding.
Toddle's approach integrates design and development, enabling teams to work simultaneously on UI, content, and app logic. The platform supports external integrations for back-end functions like databases and authentication, avoiding a one-size-fits-all solution.
Pricing starts with a free tier for open-source projects, hosted on Toddle's domain. Paid options unlock additional features like custom domains and increased storage.
Recently, Toddle secured $4.3 million in seed funding, led by Inventure. The company plans to open-source its platform, allowing developers to self-host and modify the code. This move could significantly impact the accessibility and customization of software development tools.
ScoresOpenAI's Mira Murati Discusses AI Integration and Future
Mira Murati of OpenAI discussed the future, risks, and partnerships of AI. She highlighted OpenAI's collaboration with Apple, aiming to integrate GPT into Apple devices. This move promises enhanced user interaction and device functionality without the need for new hardware.
Murati emphasized data privacy, stating OpenAI won't use user data without consent. She also discussed the sources of OpenAI's training data: public sources, partnerships with publishers, and paid human-annotated data.
On AGI, Murati predicted significant advancements within the decade, stressing the importance of assessing AI's societal impact over mere technical progress. She acknowledged challenges like data transparency and AI safety, promising ongoing efforts to address these.
The interview also touched on AI's role in education, suggesting personalized learning could revolutionize knowledge and creativity. Murati's insights underscore a cautious yet optimistic approach to AI's integration into daily life and technology.
ScoresVideo Game
Elden Ring Mod Introduces Boss vs Boss Battles
A modder has created a tool for Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC that allows players to summon major bosses as allies. This setup introduces boss-versus-boss battles, providing a new challenge and spectacle to the game.
ScoresDead by Daylight Introduces 2v8 Mode and Cross-Progression
Next week, "Dead by Daylight" introduces a 2v8 mode and cross-progression. These features, long-awaited by players, expand gameplay options and sync progress across devices.
"2v8 mode" pits two killers against eight survivors, intensifying strategy and cooperation. "Cross-progression" allows seamless continuation of game progress across different platforms.
ScoresEntertainment
Royal Caribbean Cruises introduces an innovative onboard virtual train experience.
Royal Caribbean's new cruise ship, the "Ocean Utopia," sets sail from Florida, featuring unique facilities including the "Royal Rail Utopia Station." Passengers dine in virtual train carriages with giant screens displaying dynamic landscapes. The restaurant is designed like a train carriage with luxurious decor, and each four-person compartment is equipped with a large screen. The experience content changes seasonally, starting with a western theme that simulates mountains and canyons. Subwoofers mimic train vibrations, and live performances are interactive. This experience requires an additional fee: $119.99 for adults, $59.99 for children, and $49.99 for Ultimate Dining Package users.
ScoresMissy Elliott's Song in Space and Technological Advancements
Missy Elliott's hip-hop song beamed into space. NASA's spacecraft hit over 500 times the speed of sound. SpaceX's rockets grounded, 20 satellites misplaced. Boeing's Starliner not "stuck," Webb telescope spots haze between galaxies, and an alien world with air 48 light-years away.
Samsung launched AI-powered Flip devices in Paris. Galaxy Watch7 and Watch Ultra offer health innovations. Endeavor's MatchCAP Asia 2024 broke records. Disney+ Hotstar introduces flexible plans. BJAK offers RM150 million in free road tax, benefiting 6 million Malaysians.
Insights: Space exploration and tech advancements dominate headlines. Missy Elliott's song in space bridges cultures. NASA's speed record pushes boundaries. SpaceX's grounding highlights challenges. Webb telescope's discoveries redefine our universe.
Samsung's AI and wearables set new standards. Endeavor's success in Asia fosters innovation. Disney+ Hotstar's flexibility appeals to viewers. BJAK's initiative supports digital transformation in Malaysia.
Overall, progress in space, tech, and society intertwine, shaping our future.
ScoresHealth
New Framework to Enhance Research Integrity in Clinical Guidelines
In 2023, over 10,000 scientific papers were retracted—a record. Many remained unchallenged, their flaws hidden. Monash University developed the RIGID framework to combat this. It assesses research integrity in clinical guidelines, aiming to prevent untrustworthy studies from influencing patient care.
At least 25% of clinical trials informing guidelines may be unreliable, says Professor Ben Mol, a co-lead author. The RIGID framework was first applied to guidelines for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), downloaded over 35,000 times. It uses a six-step process to evaluate research integrity, ensuring only trustworthy studies inform guidelines.
The framework emphasizes transparency. Studies flagged for integrity issues are documented, and authors are contacted for clarification. If no response, the research is excluded from guideline development.
In the PCOS guidelines, RIGID identified 45% of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) as having moderate or high risk of integrity concerns. This ensures only reliable evidence guides clinical practice.
RIGID is now being applied to other international guidelines, aiming to clean up the scientific literature and protect patient care.
ScoresUltrahuman's Smart Ring Adds FDA-Approved AFib Detection
Ultrahuman's smart ring, the Ring Air, now detects AFib—a heart rhythm issue. This feature costs $4.90 monthly. It uses a method called photoplethysmography (PPG), which measures heart rhythm by shining light on the skin and tracking blood volume changes. This method is FDA-approved.
The ring competes with smart watches, especially Apple's, which also detects AFib but uses ECG technology. Ultrahuman aims to expand its market by offering customizable features through "PowerPlugs," allowing third-party developers to create apps based on the ring's health data.
Currently, the AFib detection feature is available in several countries, including Australia and the EU, with plans to launch in the U.S. and India soon. Ultrahuman's CEO, Mohit Kumar, emphasizes the ring's accuracy and the company's cautious approach to avoid false positives and negatives.
The ring's core features remain subscription-free, differentiating it from competitors like Oura. Ultrahuman plans to keep most new "PowerPlugs" free, with only a few premium services requiring additional costs. Privacy is maintained by sharing only anonymized data with third-party developers.
Ultrahuman's strategy focuses on customization and innovation, aiming to make the smart ring a versatile health tool without the need for a subscription.
ScoresUK Men's Health Crisis: Over 133,000 Die Early Annually
More than 133,000 men die prematurely each year in the UK, which amounts to 15 every hour. Two out of five men pass away before the age of 75, frequently due to preventable conditions.
Men tend to delay seeking medical attention. Sixty-four percent wait over a week before seeing a doctor, and 48% avoid routine check-ups altogether. Less than 40% participate in NHS health checks.
The health of men in the UK falls short compared to that in other affluent nations. A boy born in 2021 is expected to live 78.7 years, which is four years less than a girl.
Major causes of death such as lung cancer and heart disease could be averted through lifestyle modifications and regular health screenings.
Suicide ranks as the leading cause of death among men aged 20 to 34 in England and Wales. Men are more prone to smoking, excessive drinking, and having high cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
A focused men’s health strategy could save lives and £9.4 billion annually. Movember advocates for the appointment of a national director for men’s health in England and a minister for men’s health in Scotland.
Significant change is imperative. Education and healthcare system reform are vital. A dedicated men’s health strategy is crucial.
ScoresSports
Rugby Concussions Linked to Neurodegenerative Proteins
Multiple concussions in rugby players have been linked to higher levels of proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Concussions, which are common in rugby, can result in repeated head trauma. This study indicates that these injuries lead to an increase in certain proteins in the blood, proteins that are often found in elevated amounts in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
The findings suggest a potential risk for long-term brain health in rugby players, emphasizing the need for improved concussion management and prevention strategies in sports. Neurodegenerative diseases are conditions that gradually damage the brain's nerve cells, causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and other neurological issues.
ScoresGareth Southgate Steps Down as England Football Manager
Gareth Southgate, after eight years, steps down as England's football manager. His tenure, marked by reaching the Euro 2024 final, a European Championship final in 2021, and a World Cup semi-final in 2018, ends with a decision to seek new challenges.
Southgate's statement reflects pride and a sense of duty fulfilled. "It has been the honour of my life," he said. His departure sets the stage for a new manager, with Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Thomas Tuchel among the top contenders.
The Football Association (FA) acknowledges Southgate's contributions, praising his work ethic and achievements. The search for his successor is underway, with potential candidates including Mauricio Pochettino and Frank Lampard.
Southgate's time was not without challenges, facing criticism and pressure, notably during the Euros. Yet, his resolve held, and his legacy includes a foundation for future success. The FA's commitment to finding a capable successor underscores the importance of continuity and stability in English football.
ScoresFood
AI Startup Wittaya Aqua Raises Funds to Enhance Aquaculture Efficiency
Wittaya Aqua, a Canadian startup, utilizes AI to enhance seafood farming. They have secured $2.8 million in funding to expand their operations in Asia, the largest region for aquaculture. Their platform assists farmers with data management, making farming both more profitable and sustainable.
Aquaculture is a significant industry, particularly in Asia, where countries like China and Indonesia are leading in seafood production. Wittaya's platform employs AI to forecast fish growth and recommend optimal feeding practices, enabling farmers to make informed decisions.
Evan Hall, one of the co-founders, identified the need for improved data management within aquaculture. His platform consolidates data from farmers, feed mills, and suppliers, providing a comprehensive view that benefits the entire supply chain.
Wittaya competes with other farm management solutions but distinguishes itself by focusing on feed management and performance across diverse species and regions. They aim to support farmers' financial stability by mitigating risks and facilitating connections with lenders and insurers.
The global aquaculture market is projected to reach $355.6 billion by 2033. Wittaya Aqua intends to play a pivotal role in this growth.
ScoresExploring Japan's Heartwarming School Lunches
"Oishii Kyushoku 3," a Japanese film, explores the tradition of kyushoku, or school lunches. Set in the 1980s, it highlights a time when these meals were innovative, often featuring adapted Western dishes. The franchise, with three TV series and three films, contrasts the usual dark themes of Japanese school life with nostalgic, heartwarming scenes.
Kyushoku began in 1947, post-WWII, with American-supplied wheat bread and milk. It aimed to nourish starving Japanese children. By the 1960s, whole milk was standard, and today, options cater to various dietary needs. The typical tray includes milk, bread, a vegetable dish, and an entrée, all for about 255 yen ($1.58).
Whale meat, once a staple, faced controversy but has reappeared less frequently. Modern preferences lean towards pan-fried vegetables and fried chicken. The slice of white bread often gives way to a croissant, and a small dessert marks a privileged era.
Kyushoku's focus has never been solely on taste but on providing essential nutrients at a low cost. It has sustained generations, adapting yet retaining its core elements.
Scores