• The Wake-Up Call: Your Health Data Is At Risk
    www.forbes.com
    Researchers Analyze DNA sequence. stockcakeHealth records are highly coveted on the black market due to the wealth of personal information they contain, which can be exploited for various fraudulent activities. Estimates of their value include:Up to $1,000 per record: Experian reports that a complete patient record can fetch upwards of $1,000, depending on its completeness. Up to $250 per record: The 2019 Trustwave Global Security Report indicates that healthcare data may be valued at up to $250 per record on the black market.Approximately $60 per record: CNBC reported that medical records are selling for $60 each on the dark web. Beyond illicit markets, health data holds substantial economic value for legitimate organizations:Healthcare Providers: Investments in data and analytics can offer economic advantages, potentially improving operational efficiencies and patient outcomes. National Health Systems: For instance, the UK's National Health Service (NHS) data set has been estimated to have a potential value of up to 5 billion per annum, delivering around 4.6 billion worth of benefits to patients annually. Economic Growth: Data-driven health policies can drive development and economic growth, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.The recent 23andMe data breach exposed the genetic and personal information of thousands of users, highlighting a growing concern: patients do not have full control over their health data. In an era where DNA testing, electronic health records (EHRs), and wearable devices collect massive amounts of personal health information, who really owns your data? Unfortunately, its often not you.The breach serves as a wake-up call. As healthcare becomes increasingly digital, patients must take control of their health informationnot just to protect their privacy but to improve their health and ensure their data is used ethically.The Risks of Not Owning Your Health DataIf your health records, genetic data, or medical history are controlled by corporations, hospitals, or third-party platforms, you face serious risks:Data Breaches & Hacks The 23andMe attack showed how easily personal health data can be stolen and potentially sold on the dark web. Often times using cryptocurrency as a covert means of transaction.Unauthorized Data Sharing Companies often sell de-identified patient data to pharmaceutical firms, insurers, or researcherswithout clear patient consent.Health Discrimination Employers, insurers, or even banks could potentially use genetic or health data against you in ways that affect employment or insurance premiums.Lack of Access Many healthcare systems restrict patient access to their own medical records, making it difficult to obtain and share vital health history.Loss of Control Over DNA & Genetic Data Once you submit your genetic information to testing companies, they often retain rights to your DNA data indefinitely.Why You Must Take Control of Your Health InformationNow more than ever, owning your health data is about more than privacyits about your well-being, security, and empowerment. Heres why:Protect Your Privacy Controlling your health data prevents unauthorized access, misuse, or commercial exploitation.Make Informed Health Decisions Having direct access to your full medical history helps you make better choices about treatment options.Improve Your Healthcare Experience When you own your records, you can easily share them across different doctors, reducing unnecessary tests and delaysEnsure Ethical Data Use With ownership, you decide who can access your data, whether for medical research, AI development, or personal health monitoring.Secure Your Genetic Information Genetic data is one of the most personal types of health informationyou should control where and how its stored.How to Take Back Ownership of Your Health DataThink Before You Share Read the privacy policies of genetic testing companies, healthcare apps, and telehealth platforms before providing any data.Use Blockchain-Based Health Data Solutions Blockchain technology enables secure, patient-owned medical records that prevent unauthorized access.Request & Store Your Medical Records Under HIPAA, you have the right to request and keep digital copies of your health records.Be Mindful of Data-Sharing Agreements Opt out of unnecessary data-sharing agreements when using health platforms or genetic testing services. If you were affected by 23andMe submit a request to delete your information.Advocate for Data Rights Support policies that give patients full control over their personal health and genetic data.
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  • Nuclear-powered battery could eliminate need for recharging
    www.techspot.com
    Forward-looking: As rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, their limitations are becoming increasingly evident. Frequent recharging and environmental concerns related to lithium mining and battery disposal have prompted researchers to seek alternatives. A team led by Su-Il In, a professor at South Korea's Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, is developing an innovative solution: radiocarbon-powered nuclear batteries that could last for decades without needing a recharge. Professor In presented his team's findings at the American Chemical Society's Spring 2025 meeting, held March 23 27. The conference featured approximately 12,000 presentations on scientific advancements.The research addresses the growing demand for durable and sustainable power sources, as connected devices, data centers, and advanced technologies continue to push the capabilities of Li-ion batteries to their limits. "The performance of Li-ion batteries is almost saturated," In said, explaining why his team turned to nuclear batteries as an alternative.Radiocarbon offers several advantages over other radioactive materials: it is inexpensive, readily available as a by-product of nuclear power plants, and easy to recycle. Most importantly, it degrades extraordinarily slowly, with a half-life of 5,730 years.Nuclear batteries generate electricity by harnessing high-energy particles emitted during the radioactive decay of certain materials. Unlike conventional nuclear energy sources such as uranium or plutonium which emit harmful gamma rays In's design uses carbon-14, a radioactive isotope known as radiocarbon.Radiocarbon emits only beta particles, which are less harmful and can be safely contained with a thin sheet of aluminum. This makes betavoltaic batteries, which convert beta radiation into electricity, a promising candidate for compact and safe energy solutions. Radiocarbon offers several advantages over other radioactive materials: it is inexpensive, readily available as a by-product of nuclear power plants, and easy to recycle. Most importantly, it degrades extraordinarily slowly, with a half-life of 5,730 years. // Related StoriesThis means a radiocarbon-powered battery could theoretically provide power for thousands of years without needing replacement. "I decided to use a radioactive isotope of carbon because it generates only beta rays," said In.The team's prototype betavoltaic battery incorporates advanced materials to maximize energy conversion efficiency a critical challenge in nuclear battery design. At the heart of the battery is a titanium dioxide-based semiconductor commonly used in solar cells.By incorporating radiocarbon on both the cathode and anode, this dye-sensitized betavoltaic cell achieves greater energy-conversion efficiency.This material was treated with a ruthenium-based dye and strengthened with citric acid to create a highly sensitive structure capable of efficiently converting beta radiation into electricity.Beta particles emitted by radiocarbon strike the ruthenium-based dye on the semiconductor, triggering a cascade of electron transfer reactions known as an "electron avalanche." These reactions generate electricity, which the titanium dioxide layer collects and passes through an external circuit. This process is central to the battery's ability to produce usable power.A key factor in In's design was placing radiocarbon in both the anode and cathode of the battery a departure from previous designs that used radiocarbon exclusively on one electrode. This dual-site configuration increased the generation of beta particles while minimizing energy loss caused by the distance between electrodes.The results were striking: testing revealed that this approach boosted the battery's energy conversion efficiency from 0.48 percent in earlier designs to 2.86 percent in the new prototype a nearly sixfold improvement.Despite this progress, radiocarbon batteries still lag behind Li-ion batteries in terms of power output. Li-ion batteries typically achieve energy conversion efficiencies of around 90 percent. However, what these nuclear batteries lack in immediate performance, they make up for in longevity and reliability. Their ability to function for decades without recharging opens up new possibilities across various industries.For instance, pacemakers powered by radiocarbon batteries could last a patient's entire lifetime, eliminating the need for risky surgical replacements. Other potential applications include powering remote sensors in harsh environments, satellites that require long-term energy solutions in space, and even drones or self-driving vehicles where frequent recharging is impractical.In acknowledges that further optimization is needed to enhance the performance of these nuclear batteries. Efforts are underway to refine the shape of beta-ray emitters and develop more efficient absorbers to increase power generation. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about their potential impact. "We can put safe nuclear energy into devices the size of a finger," he said, envisioning a future where nuclear energy is no longer confined to large power plants but integrated into everyday technology.The research was funded by Korea's National Research Foundation and supported by the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology Research and Development Program under Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT.
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  • Reddit says Blackberry is back, but take it with a grain of salt
    www.digitaltrends.com
    Despite numerous efforts to save and/or revive the brand over the years, most people have accepted that Blackberry phones have gone the way of the dodo. However, a Reddit post suggests a UK-based startup is quietly working to resurrect the Blackberry Classic and more where the last attempts from Onward Mobility failed.Reddit user u/coldheartedsigma shared the news to the Blackberry subreddit, but couldnt provide the brand or show the complete design as they had signed an NDA. The post didnt share much information, but it did mention specs including 5G, an AMOLED display, and 12GB of RAM with either 256 or 512GB of storage.Recommended VideosSupposedly, the new version of Blackberry will run Android 15, support some level of generative AI, and have a capacitive keyboard. Theres also supposedly a roadmap in the works for multiple QWERTY-based devices, and the startup is negotiating exclusive licensing for Blackberry patents.Image used with permission by copyright holderu/coldheartedsigma shared the above image, but edited the end result not to get in trouble. Unfortunately, the image is edited to the point that its nearly impossible to glean any information from. We can make out the phrase Blackberry Patents and QWERTY, as well as The worlds first. All other text is too obscured.Please enable Javascript to view this contentThe post was met with a fair amount of skepticism, and we also encourage readers to take this with a potentially unhealthy does of sodium. While Blackberry has an enthusiastic fan base, this post isnt indicative of much besides rumor. The original poster is a relatively new Reddit user and doesnt have a track record to go from.They also responded to another user and said, Nobody said anything about reviving Blackberry. Blackberry are no longer in the smartphone sphere, and as such their name cannot be used by others. If this startup succeeds in manufacturing a device akin to a Blackberry, it will likely be a phone with a similar design rather than one carrying the same name.Editors Recommendations
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  • AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: Battle of the flagship eabuds
    www.digitaltrends.com
    Table of ContentsTable of ContentsApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: specsApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: design and comfortApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: features and controlsApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: battery lifeApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: sound qualityApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: call qualityApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: priceApple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Sony WF-1000XM5: The verdictWireless earbuds continue to improve each year. Two of the top optionsavailable right now are the AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5. In our reviews of both models, we gave them each a 4.5-star rating. They both offer great sound and ANC features, comfortable fit, and an excellent user experience, so you really cant go wrong with either choice. However, is there a better option between them? Lets explore and find out.Apple AirPods Pro 2Sony WF-1000XM5Weight4 grams per earbud; 38.2 grams carrying case5,9 grams per earbud; 39 grams carry caseEartipsX-small, small, medium, and largeX-small, small, medium, and largeTypeIn-ear, closedIn-ear, closedAmbient sound modesANC, transparency, Adaptive Noise Control, Conversation Awareness, Loud sound reduction, spatial audioANC, Ambient Sound mode, Voice FocusIP ratingIP54IPX4BluetoothBluetooth 5.3Bluetooth 5.3Battery lifeUp to 6 hours between charges; 30 hours total with charging caseUp to 8 hours between charges; 24 hours total with charging caseColor optionsWhiteBlack, Smoky Pink, and SilverPrice$249$299BuyRecommended VideosZeke Jones / Digital TrendsThe first-generation AirPods Pro 2 was introduced in September 2022 and has since been discontinued. This initial iteration featured a Lightning connector on the charging case, which was typical for many Apple devices at the time. However, in September 2023, Apple introduced the current version of the AirPods Pro 2, now equipped with a USB-C connector, aligning more closely with the broader tech industry trend toward universal charging solutions.RelatedFrom a design perspective, both versions remain consistent, showcasing Apples commitment to a sleek and minimalistic aesthetic. The earbuds sport a glossy white finish, complemented by short stems that house the microphones and touch controls. To ensure a comfortable and secure fit during use, each pair comes with silicone ear tips in different sizes (extra-small, small, medium, and large) to cater to various ear shapes and preferences. When you find the right size for you, the fit is perfect and the AirPods Pro 2 can be worn for extended periods of time.The included charging case is also white and features a compact design thats easy to carry. A standout feature of the case is its built-in speaker, which supports Find My alerts, making it easier for users to locate their case if its misplaced. The case also supports MagSafe and wireless charging capabilities, offering versatility in how users can recharge their devices.We found the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds remarkably comfortable as well, thanks to their smooth plastic construction and newly designed foam ear tips. The earbuds have been expertly crafted to be smaller, lighter, and more streamlined than their predecessor, the WF-1000XM4, making them ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort.The accompanying charging case has also been redesigned, making it more pocket-friendly thanks to its compact size. This makes it convenient to carry around, whether commuting, traveling, or just heading out for a quick errand.However, its worth noting a few things. The glossy finish of the WF01000XM5s can make them slippery, which may take some getting used to, especially when handling them. Additionally, while the fit is generally good, we found it less secure than the XM4. This could pose a challenge during more vigorous activities, such as running or intense workouts, where a snug fit is preferable for optimal performance overall. While the WF-1000XM5 earbuds deliver a comfortable experience during casual use, those with active lifestyles should be mindful of the potential for a less secure fit.Because of the fit issue with Sonys when compared to the AirPods Pro 2, were giving this point to Apples earbuds.Winner: AirPods Pro 2Simon Cohen / Digital TrendsThe AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5 are premium earbuds equipped with various advanced audio features and control options. The AirPods Pro 2 include Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), an Adaptive Transparency mode, Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, and Adaptive EQ. While stationary, you can make adjustments using the Settings app on your connected iPhone or iPad. The force sensors on the stems allow for easy playback management for on-the-go control.Additionally, you can use Siri for hands-free operation and an update with the iOS 18 update came easy-to-use head movement features that allow you to accept Siri prompts like incoming phone calls, by nodding yes or shaking your head n0. Automatic ear detection also pauses the music whenever you remove one earbud and resumes playback once it is placed back in your ear.A standout feature of the AirPods Pro 2 is conversation awareness, which automatically lowers the volume and enhances voices when you start talking. The earbuds seamlessly switch between Apple devices, allowing you to control music while quickly transitioning between your Mac and iPhone if you, for example, use both throughout your work day for calls and Teams meetings.Features like Find My support enable precise location tracking and personalized alerts through the charging case speaker. Lastly, the Hearing Aid compatibility feature allows you to use the earbuds to help you hear better. These features make the AirPods Pro 2 a delightful choice for Apple users.Sonys earbuds offer impressive features that enhance the user experience. The touch controls are precise and intuitive, providing a satisfying audible tone as confirmation with each interaction. This makes it easier to navigate through functions and minimizes the chances of accidental taps.One notable improvement (versus the previous model) is the enhanced functionality that allows users to adjust the volume on the earbuds without losing access to voice assistant features. This seamless integration means you can enjoy your music and manage your calls without interruption.The XM5s also come equipped with innovative head movement control gestures similar to the AirPods Pro 2 a simple nod can accept incoming calls, while shaking your head will decline them. This hands-free feature is handy when your hands are occupied.The Bluetooth connection stands out for its reliability, maintaining a stable link even at a distance. Whether out for a walk or moving around the house, the connection remains strong and uninterrupted, allowing for a smooth listening experience. Overall, Sony has combined user-friendliness with advanced technology, making their earbuds a standout choice for audio enthusiasts.Its hard to pick a winner on this point, so we wont.Winner: TieSimon Cohen / Digital TrendsThe second-generation AirPods Pro battery life can last up to six hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) when used at about 50% volume, making them ideal for daily commutes or lengthy meetings. However, using ANC heavily may reduce the battery life to around five hours. A quick 5-minute charge provides an additional usage hour, while the wireless charging case supports four full charges, totaling 30 hours of listening time.The Sony WF-1000XM5 stands out for its battery life, offering up to eight hours with ANC activated and 12 hours with it deactivated. The charging case provides around 36 hours of total playtime, making it suitable for daily use. Additionally, their quick-charge feature allows for an extra hour of playtime in just three minutes, appealing to casual listeners and audiophiles.Well give the edge to Sony here.Winner: WF-1000XM5Simon Cohen / Digital TrendsThe AirPods Pro 2 delivers exceptional sound quality that stands out in the competitive market of true wireless earbuds. Our review of them determined that they produce punchy bass that feels deep and resonant, providing a rich audio foundation without overpowering the mids and highs. The treble is meticulously crafted, showcasing clarity and crispness that allows the subtle intricacies of vocals and instruments to shine through. Every nuance in your favorite tracks is articulated beautifully, making even the most complex arrangements easy to appreciate.One of the standout features is the expansive soundstage, which creates a sense of spatial awareness that envelops the listener from all directions. The head-tracking spatial audio feature significantly enhances this immersive quality, which simulates a live concert or cinematic environment. Sounds flow around you seamlessly as you move your head, making every listening session feel engaging and fresh. This invites you to explore your music library in a new light.According to our reviewer, though, the sound quality of the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds is top-notch as well, stating that you wont find better, even if you spend more.Sony consistently excels in sound quality, and the XM5 earbuds are no exception. They offer an audio experience that enhances the already impressive performance of the XM4s, delivering balanced bass that is both resonant and musically rich.Across a spectrum of genres, from hard rock to jazz, the XM5 earbuds manage to keep various musical elements distinct and clear. For example, during Bill Laurances complex track Zeal, which overwhelmed the $400 Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2, the XM5s effectively organized the multiple layers of synths, strings, and percussion, making them easily decipherable. Utilizing Sonys LDAC Bluetooth codec on Android enhances detail and dynamic range, especially with lossless high-resolution audio files, which the AirPods Pro 2 does not support.The soundstage is impressively detailed and precise, although it tends to remain pretty confined to the listeners head, concentrating most of the audio within a compact area during typical stereo playback. In contrast, immersive 3D audio formats such as Sony 360 Reality Audio (360RA) and Dolby Atmos significantly expand the listening experience, with 360RA demonstrating the most benefit.Additionally, Sony has introduced a beta feature called Find Your Equalizer, which personalizes your sound experience. You select a song and the system guides you through three EQ adjustments. After each step, you choose your preferred modification from a list, unlocking further refinements. Ultimately, these settings are saved as a custom preset in the Headphones app, allowing for future adjustments. Although the resulting sound profile was not to my liking favoring lower frequencies while diminishing the highs its an interesting tool for those who prefer not to adjust individual EQ sliders manually.Winner: WF-1000XM5Simon Cohen / Digital TrendsThe latest AirPods Pro 2 have elevated the call experience, boasting remarkable sound quality surpassing earlier models. This is primarily attributed to their state-of-the-art noise cancellation technology, which effectively filters background noise, allowing the users voice to stand out clearly. During our evaluations, even disruptive sounds like traffic from nearby trucks were entirely blocked out for the wearer, making conversations straightforward and free from disturbances.However, in extremely loud outdoor settings, the clarity of the voice might become slightly dampened. This can result in a perception that the voice sounds somewhat distant to the listener. Nevertheless, feedback from callers indicates that they can hear the speaker without difficulty, akin to speaking directly into a phones microphone.On the other hand, Sonys latest WF-1000XM5 earbuds boast impressive call quality, thanks to their innovative dual processor and advanced microphone setup. Each earbud includes six microphones and a bone conduction sensor that captures the vibrations of your voice. The sensor is then processed by an AI trained on hundreds of millions of voice samples. This sophisticated technology effectively distinguishes your voice from any background noise.In our testing, we were genuinely impressed with the WF-1000XM5s ability to suppress external sounds that often interfere with calls. Noises from traffic, construction, and even strong winds were thoroughly managed, leaving the other party with an evident audio experience.Its worth noting that in situations where background noise is deafening, your voice may be somewhat diminished in volume. Some compression can also occur, affecting finer nuances in speech. However, the overall performance of the XM5s delivers a richer dynamic range compared to the AirPods Pro, making them ideal for outdoor and indoor conversations, where their microphone quality truly excels.Winner: TieZeke Jones / Digital TrendsThe AirPods Pro 2 are priced at $249 before any discounts and are only available in white. In contrast, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds retail for $299 and come in three colors: Black, Silver, and Smokey Pink.While the AirPods Pro 2 are more affordable than the Sony earbuds at their regular prices, both products frequently go on sale. Be sure to shop around before making a purchase.Simon Cohen / Digital TrendsChoosing between the AirPods Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5 largely depends on your preferences. The Sony WF-1000XM5 is known for its superior audio quality and exceptional noise cancellation (ANC). It provides a rich, detailed sound profile and allows for customizable EQ settings through the Sony Headphones app, making it ideal for audiophiles.On the other hand, the AirPods Pro 2 excel in their seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. They offer effortless connectivity, spatial audio, and excellent overall performance. While both models feature impressive noise cancellation, many users, particularly those who primarily use Apple devices, prefer the AirPods Pro 2 for their comfort and user-friendly experience.In summary, if audio quality and noise cancellation are your top priorities, the Sony WF-1000XM5 is likely the better choice. However, if you are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, value ease of use, and excellent sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 may be the more suitable option.Overall, we rate the Sony WF-1000XM5 slightly better than the AirPods Pro 2. Honestly, however, its only by a nose.Winner: WF-1000XM5Editors Recommendations
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  • I debated not going back to work and staying home with my kids. I'm glad I didn't because day care gave me my group of friends.
    www.businessinsider.com
    The author met her friends through her kids. Courtesy of the author 2025-03-29T20:24:01Z SaveSaved Read in app This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.Have an account? I almost didn't go back to work and send my kids to day care, but now I'm glad I did.I've met most of my friends through my kids, and our tight-knit group feels more like family.Eight years later, we still show up for each other.Making friends in a new town isn't easy, especially when working from home and being a married mom of two under 2. But when I sent my kids to day care, I found a few friends along the way who have become like family.Finding common bonds with strangersI crossed paths with many of the same faces during day care drop-off and pick-up each day. I learned to treasure those micro conversations when checking our children in and out, grabbing car seats, and watching the teachers bring out their cute little fingerpaintings and art projects to take home. These moments created a bond between us despite us essentially being strangers.The day care had an indoor play space called The Treehouse, with after-hours events for parents and their kids. It created the perfect opportunity to meet other moms while helping my children (then ages 1 and 3) grow their social skills.Tuesday nights were our favorite. The theme was "Work It Out," and $5 per kid covered two supervised hours of kid-play in The Treehouse while the moms got a full-body workout.It became a weekly tradition for my crew and two other moms, Meredith and Christin, whose kids were the same ages as mine.This was the start of new friendships for me and what has now become lifelong friendships for my children. My kids don't remember a time when they weren't friends with the other Treehouse kids.Sharing the good, bad, and insanity of motherhood, and moreWhen The Treehouse ended its after-hours events, our trio continued the Tuesday tradition, hosting Work It Out at each other's houses.Those Tuesdays evolved into lunch dates, park trips, weekend play dates, birthday celebrations, and a three-way text thread. We socialized often, with and without our kids.Meredith and I surprised our kids by meeting up at Dollywood one summer day and again at Six Flags several years later. We have a long-standing tradition of going river tubing each summer right before the new school year starts. We gave Christin a baby shower and a meal train to welcome her second daughter. She's my go-to when I need help with school transportation. And since our older boys' birthdays are just three days apart, we plan their parties around each other.Christin keeps an eye on my house when I'm out of town, feeds my pets, and gives me a voice of reason. She's lived in our town much longer than I have and knows everyone and everything that happens, which is why she's the first person I go to when I have questions. She's been a voice of reason for me more times than I can count.The more time we spent together, the easier it was for me to befriend other moms. Lauren, Aundrea, and Quintina became familiar faces at birthday parties, park dates, and play dates.Our children have formed inseparable bonds because they see each other often in and out of daycare. Even though they've made new friends over the years, they're still closest to the ones from their pre-school days.Family is also the people you chooseThe text thread is now an eight-person collaboration, and it grows ever longer. And to think I almost didn't choose day care.We're long removed from Tuesdays, The Treehouse, and day care, and life has gotten busy for all of us. Most of our kids play sports or take lessons of some sort. One of our friends moved a couple of hours away. Another is going through cancer.But distance, schedules, and life's unexpected surprises can't divide us. We still trick-or-treat together, do craft nights, celebrate birthdays (and know when each kid's birthday is coming up), discuss school and sports, and plan outings.Our kids brought us together, but we chose to become friends. Now, more than eight years later, we continue to choose friendship despite the different roads we've traveled. We might go longer between visits or texts, but we always know where to turn when one of us needs help, advice, an answer, or just a friend.Recommended video
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  • Amazon wants to turn your photo library into an online marketplace
    www.businessinsider.com
    Future Publishing/Future Publishing via Getty Images 2025-03-29T20:16:58Z SaveSaved Read in app This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.Have an account? Amazon Photos has a new feature that turns your photo library into an online marketplace.Users can now search for products on Amazon using photos stored in their Amazon Photos app.The new feature uses image recognition technology to find similar products sold on Amazon.Amazon is now setting up shop in users' photo libraries.Panos Panay, senior vice president of Amazon's Devices and Services division, announced an update to Amazon Photos allowing users to "search your photo library to find similar products on Amazon.""Spot something you loved at a friend's house or a toy your kid was obsessed with?" he wrote in an X post on Friday. "Just search your photos and we'll surface relevant items for you."Panay posted a 30-second video promoting the update, which uses image recognition technology to analyze users' photos, identify potential products, and provide links to purchase similar items on Amazon."You can use the Amazon Photos app to shop for products recognized in your photos," according to Amazon's customer service webpage. "When viewing individual photos, select the Lens icon to explore products in the Amazon retail app or website."Representatives for Amazon did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.The photo app update is yet another way Amazon founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos is trying to entice shoppers.In February, BI reported that Amazon is testing a program that pays media companies to drive traffic to the retail e-commerce platform through product recommendations. Publishers would get paid even if readers don't purchase the product.The feature comes just in time for Amazon's 2025 Big Spring Sale, which runs from March 25 to March 31. Shoppers can snag deals across several Amazon categories, from electronics to household products.Recommended video
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  • Scott Derrickson Adapting Horror Novel Road of Bones for Film
    gizmodo.com
    Derrickson and his recurring creative partner C. Robert Cargill are tackling Christopher Golden's 2022 horror novel for the big screen.
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  • Syndal South Primary School / WHDA
    www.archdaily.com
    Syndal South Primary School / WHDASave this picture! Anthony RichardsonArchitects: WHDAAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:1070 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Anthony RichardsonManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: Forbo, Laminex, Lysaght, Ontera (Carpet)More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Syndal South Primary School is an educational hub in the leafy urban area of Mount Waverley on the lands of the Woi Wurrung Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, the new Block A building of Syndal Primary School replaces an aging asbestos laden LTC building with new Administrative offices, Junior Classrooms, and a publicly accessible Library. The design proposal aims to contextualise the proposed Block A in its suburban setting by incorporating familiar domestic archetypes of the front porch and the verandah into circulation spaces and thresholds. The majority of the spaces are consolidated under a single roof which pitches north and south in deference to the neighbourhood street and to avoid overshadowing existing hardcourt play areas.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The building straddles domestic and civic scales and re-interprets cornerstones from the home and the neighbourhood into an education typology, such that public facing areas are scaled generously for social gathering, while learning and working areas are porous and scaled intimately for focus. Bookending the entry forecourt, the school-funded Library pavilion greets visitors as a local 'Living Room' and is flexible for both its roles as a quiet reading space during school hours and an open community hub after, with dual frontage providing views towards the school entry and internally across the sports courtyard.Save this picture!Save this picture!Entry to the school is organised in a pinwheel configuration, with wayfinding as a priority. New families and visitors needed to be able to navigate intuitively at the entry point - to reception, to the library, to the central sports courtyard, to the meeting rooms. Views are choreographed; the Library is connected to the administrative areas and reception through the thoroughfare, and the clerestory window to the commons draws the eye up to the mature ring of trees bordering Montgomery Avenue.Save this picture!The junior classrooms are conceived as a mixed model between open-plan and traditional directional classroom teaching, with dedicated teaching spaces connected to the commons and direct access to outdoor learning and play. These outdoor learning areas featuring play equipment and mud kitchens serve as an extension of the classroom and informal 'territory' between younger and older students, mediated by a new yarning circle installed by the school. The classrooms are adaptive to allow for a multitude of configurations to support a range of teaching modes, independent study, or group discussion, with interactive TVs supplementing physical media for art, math games, and literacy skills.Save this picture!Save this picture!The Commons is the heart of the new building and is treated as the collective 'street' of the junior learning base, large enough for assemblies to take place in bad weather and shaped to allow small group collaboration. The entry doors to each classroom are treated as a front 'porch' with cupboards for bags, nook seating for focused reading, and pinboards to showcase student work.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessAbout this officeWHDAOfficePublished on March 29, 2025Cite: "Syndal South Primary School / WHDA" 29 Mar 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028536/syndal-south-primary-school-whda&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream
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  • Green Screen Effects | 4K 60fps | Chroma Screen Sci-Fi Character VFX Footage for Download
    www.youtube.com
    Green Screen Effects | 4K 60fps | Chroma Screen Sci-Fi Character VFX Footage for DownloadDiscover an impressive collection of Green Screen VFX and Chroma Key Footage in 4K 60fps! This playlist features high-quality VFX assets that are perfect for compositing in your films, videos, and creative projects. With effects from various genres like Fire FX, Smoke FX, and other dynamic elements from Unreal Engine VFX, you can add stunning visual effects to your content effortlessly.Each video includes multiple angles of Chroma Screen footage, allowing you to seamlessly integrate the effects into your scene from different perspectives. These professional-grade assets are optimized for Chroma Key compositing and will save you time on your VFX projects. Key Features:4K 60fps resolution for cinematic-quality visualsMultiple Angles for flexible compositingReady-to-use Fire FX, Smoke FX, and more from Unreal Engine VFXChroma Key (Green Screen) compatible for easy integrationIdeal for filmmakers, video editors, and VFX artistsEnhance your projects with these free downloadable effects and elevate your content. Subscribe for more VFX assets and tutorials!FAB - https://www.fab.com/sellers/CGHOW Whatsapp - https://bit.ly/3LYvxjK Patreon- https://www.patreon.com/Ashif NFT - https://opensea.io/CGHOW Twitter - https://twitter.com/cghow_ If you Liked it - http://bit.ly/2UZmiZ4 Channel Ashif - http://bit.ly/3aYaniw Support me on - paypal.me/9953280644 #cghow #UE5 #UE4Niagara #gamefx #ue5niagara #ue4vfx #niagara #unrealengineniagara #realtimevfxVisit - https://cghow.com/ Unreal Engine Marketplace - https://bit.ly/3aojvAa Artstation Store - https://www.artstation.com/ashif/store Gumroad - https://cghow.gumroad.com/
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  • NASA rover spots hundreds of 'spider eggs' on Mars and scientists have no idea how they got there
    www.livescience.com
    On March 11, NASA's Perseverance Mars rover spotted a mysterious rock made of hundreds of tiny spheres that resemble spider eggs. Studying its formation could help us look for fossilized remains of microbial life on Mars.
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