Kevin and I were chatting about the coding program - Did you know...

Have you ever heard about the one line anonymous function?

H20.5 Foundations | Welcome 1 | Model the Cup

H20.5 Foundations | Welcome 7 | Last Minute Changes

In this exclusive webcast, we delve into the transformative potential of portable microservices for the deployment of generative AI models. We explore how startups and large organizations are leveraging this technology to streamline generative AI deployment, enhance customer service, and drive innovation across domains, including chatbots, document analysis, and video generation. WATCH NOW Our discussion focuses on overcoming key challenges such as deployment complexity, security, and cost management. We also discuss how microservices can help executives realize business value with generative AI while maintaining control over data and intellectual property. WATCH NOW

This is today's edition ofThe Download,our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what's going on in the world of technology. The way we measure progress in AI is terrible Every time a new AI model is released, its typically touted as acing its performance against a series of benchmarks. OpenAIs GPT-4o, for example, was launched in May with a compilation of results that showed its performance topping every other AI companys latest model in several tests. The problem is that these benchmarks are poorly designed, the results hard to replicate, and the metrics they use are frequently arbitrary, according to new research. That matters because AI models scores against these benchmarks determine the level of scrutiny they receive. AI companies frequently cite benchmarks as testament to a new models success, and those benchmarks already form part of some governments plans for regulating AI. But right now, they might not be good enough to use that wayand researchers have some ideas for how they should be improved. Scott J Mulligan We need to start wrestling with the ethics of AI agents Generative AI models have become remarkably good at conversing with us, and creating images, videos, and music for us, but theyre not all that good at doing things for us. AI agents promise to change that. Last week researchers published a new paper explaining how they trained simulation agents to replicate 1,000 peoples personalities with stunning accuracy.AI models that mimic you could go out and act on your behalf in the near future. If such tools become cheap and easy to build, it will raise lots of new ethical concerns, but two in particular stand out. Read the full story.James ODonnell This story is from The Algorithm, our weekly AI newsletter. Sign up to receive it in your inbox every Monday. The must-reads Ive combed the internet to find you todays most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology. 1 Donald Trump has pledged special tariffs for China, Canada and Mexico He says its to prevent drug trafficking and illegal migration into the US. (WP $)+ The tariffs are bad news for Chinese EV firm BYDs planned factory in Mexico. (WSJ $)+ How Trumps tariffs could drive up the cost of batteries, EVs, and more. (MIT Technology Review)2 Maternal doctors are leaving TexasAbortion restrictions make it much harder to administer miscarriage care. (New Yorker $) + Porsha Ngumezi is the third woman known to have died under the states ban. (ProPublica)3 Bluesky has been accused of breaching EU data rules Its failed to declare how many EU users it has and where its legally based. (FT $)+ Bluesky says its working to comply with the disclosure rules. (The Information $)4 How Amazon plans to take on Nvidia Its engineers are racing to get its AI chips running reliably in data centers by the end of the year. (Bloomberg $)+ Whats next in chips. (MIT Technology Review) 5 Neuralink will test whether its brain implant can control a robotic arm If it can, itll be the first wireless brain-computer interface to do so. (Wired $)+ Meet the other companies developing brain-computer interfaces. (MIT Technology Review)6 Your Pokmon Go data could be bought by militaries and governmentsParent company Niantic hasnt ruled it out. (404 Media) 7 Inside Googles little-known nuclear energy research groupIts quietly been seeking to further our understanding of nuclear energy for years. (IEEE Spectrum) + Why the lifetime of nuclear plants is getting longer. (MIT Technology Review)8 US farms desperately need fresh waterNew desalination projects could help make abundant saltwater more plant-friendly. (Knowable Magazine) + How we drained California dry. (MIT Technology Review)9 Nvidias new AI model creates entirely new sounds Including a screaming saxophone and an angry cello. (Ars Technica)+ These impossible instruments could change the future of music. (MIT Technology Review)10 We may finally know what causes mysterious radio flashes from space Asteroids and comets bashing into neutron stars could be behind them. (New Scientist $)Quote of the day Did we change Big Tech? My answer is no. Tommaso Valletti, an economist who worked under the European Unions antitrust regulator Margrethe Vestager, reflects on her legacy as she prepares to step down to the New York Times. The big story How to fix the internet October 2023 Were in a very strange moment for the internet. We all know its broken. But theres a sense that things are about to change. The stranglehold that the big social platforms have had on us for the last decade is weakening. Theres a sort of common wisdom that the internet is irredeemably bad. That social platforms, hungry to profit off your data, opened a Pandoras box that cannot be closed. But the internet has also provided a haven for marginalized groups and a place for support. It offers information at times of crisis. It can connect you with long-lost friends. It can make you laugh. The internet is worth fighting for because despite all the misery, theres still so much good to be found there. And yet, fixing online discourse is the definition of a hard problem. But dont worry. I have an idea. Read the full story. Katie Notopoulos We can still have nice things A place for comfort, fun and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line or tweet 'em at me.) + America is super into republishing classic literature these days. + Im convinced theres nothing more innovative and daring than a hungry cat (thanks Dorothy!)+ Gen Z famously loves to mock the way millennials dress, but needless to say: weve had the last laugh.+ How music influences math, believe it or not.

Submitted by WA ContentsNeom unveils a new luxury eco-resort in the Northwest of Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia Architecture News - Nov 26, 2024 - 14:51 html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd"Neom has unveiled a new luxury development in the northwest of Saudi Arabia on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba.Called Zardun, the project, made up of four buildings, will provide a peaceful retreat for discerning guests seeking genuine experiences in a stunning natural environment.Designed by Dutch architecture practice OMA, Zardun, which spans four square kilometers, was planned with environmental stewardship in mind. The resort is set in a carefully restored semi-desert landscape that thrives with native fauna and flora.As part of this, the studio created a number of oases to support a variety of habitats and make it easier to reintroduce and care for native plant, animal, and tree species. The project is led by OMA Partner Chris van Duijn.The renowned Zannier Interior Design Studio will create the interior designs, assuring a distinctive and expert touch.Zardun is created as part of Neom's one of mega regions, Magna. Other regions include, Trojena, The Line, Sindalah, Oxagon.The natural surroundings are complemented by the four architectural compounds. The four compounds will form an experience center and three hotels, totaling 100 rooms and suites, among the four unique structures that utilize the site's varying topographical features.The visitor center, which is perched on a hill, is made up of varying vertical volumes that open to the sea and mountains. The structure will be used as a gathering place for resident scientists who research the surrounding environment as well as an interactive learning center for the general public.Every hotel has been planned to provide a unique experience that reflects the environment. The Wedge, a set of three suspended transparent volumes that provide visitors with an elevated vantage point to overlook the landscape, is tucked away between two hills. On the other side, the Stack emerges as a more inward-looking collection of horizontal volumes that draw inspiration from the nearby rock formations.The Tower, a remarkable building with angular sections carved out of the center to reflect the changing natural landscape, stands between them on the level ground.An underground entrance to a distinctly unique visitor center greets visitors and leads to a 360-degree observation deck that showcases Zardun's splendor, offering a setting for the closest possible human-nature interaction.Trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, stargazing, meditation, yoga, and other sports and leisure activities will be available to guests, along with educational programs on nature conservation and rewilding and life-changing experiences.The project is created in collaboration with Zannier Hotels, offering one-of-a-kind stays and experiences, united by a desire to inspire Lifes Greatest Stories.The resort will include a number of verdant oases intended to support a variety of habitats, assisting in the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species as part of Neom and Zannier Hotels' commitment to protecting and improving the natural environment."Zardun is a very ambitious plan to bring back plants and animals that have been living on the Gulf of Aqaba. Zardun is a new beginning," said OMA partner Chris van Duijn."Guest are welcomed with this complete surprise suddenly they see the landscape that once was there, from the small insects to the birds and the mammals," he continued."They see Nubian Ibex and Arabian Oryx, animals that all became extinct in this area. It's almost like time travel.""Each building relates to a different topographic element," Van Duijn added."We have The Wedge, which is a kind of in a valley two hills on either side, and it's like a theatre overlooking the landscape."He continued that "The second building is a tower it's a monolith that stands on the flatlands, eroded by wind and time as if it was always there.""And the third building is the stacked hotel. There are rock formations with sharp articulated lines and there is a kind of directionality break."Van Duijn highlighted that "We need to think about the future of the planet," he said. "It's not even a question of whether we want to do it or not, we have to do it. This is the scale of thinking here in Neom.""Zardun is a new movement to transform how we live and how we coexist on the planet," he added.Zardun scheme is the 7th of the 12th region within the Magna development, alongside Epicon, Norlana, Siranna, Utamo, Aquellum, Leyja, Xaynor, Jaumur, Elanan, Gidori, and Treyam.According to Neom, Magna will be a unique destination, unlike anything else on earth. It will perfectly blend breathtaking nature, extraordinary experiences, and remarkable architectural design, all while providing luxury living and tourism opportunities.This will take place within a nature reserve, where 95% of the land is dedicated to wildlife preservation.High-profiled architecture practices work Neom's projects, The Line, such as Morphosis, Peter Cook, OMA, Peri Cobb Freed & Partners, Studio Fuksas, Tom Wiscombe Architecture, UNStudio, Coop Himmelb(l)au, HOK, Oyler Wu Collaborative.Neom recently revealed that Gensler, Mott MacDonald, and Delugan Meissl Associate Architects (DMAA) would be the new architects for The Line project.In 2023, three men were sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia for resisting "displacements" in Neom project site by Saudi Arabias Specialised Criminal Court (SCC).Described as "a revolution in urban living", The Line will incorporate smart technologies and is expected to provide home 9 million residents.All images courtesy of Neom.> via Neom

Source: ShutterstockSmithfield MarketThe future of Smithfield Meat Market, one of Londons most historic trading sites, hangs in the air following a decision by the City of London Corporation. The market, which has operated for over eight centuries, will cease trading at its current location as part of a plan to withdraw the Corporations involvement in direct market operations.The closure was confirmed after the Corporation voted to end plans to relocate Smithfield and Billingsgate Fish Market to a new 1 billion site at Dagenham Dock. Rising construction costs and inflation were cited as reasons for abandoning the project, which had already incurred 308 million in costs for site acquisition and remediation.This decision represents a positive new chapter for Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets in that it empowers traders to build a sustainable future in premises that align with their long-term business goals, said Chris Hayward, policy chairman of the City of London Corporation. By stepping back from direct market operations, we will help to create opportunities for these businesses to thrive independently.The Corporation will provide financial compensation to traders and assist them in relocating to new premises. Trading at both markets will continue until at least 2028, allowing for a phased transition.Smithfield Market, designed by Sir Horace Jones and completed in 1868, is a landmark of Victorian architecture. The site has a history of livestock and meat trading that dates back to the medieval period. Plans to convert part of the market into the new London Museum remain unaffected by the decision.The Corporation stated that it is working with traders to identify alternative sites and ensure continuity in the food supply chain. Were committed to making sure [traders] have the financial support and guidance they need to transition seamlessly and successfully to new locations, Hayward said.Billingsgate Fish Market, another historic market that has operated since 1327, also faces an uncertain future. Originally located on Lower Thames Street, it moved to its current site in Poplar in 1982. The site has been earmarked for housing development following its closure.The Corporation will submit a Private Bill to Parliament to formally end its responsibilities for operating the markets at their current sites. It also plans to continue to work with Barking and Dagenham Council to redevelop the Dagenham Dock site.While this is disappointing news, we understand the financial pressures that key investment projects are facing, said Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council. We are committed to continue working with the City of London Corporation to unlock the huge potential of the Dagenham Dock site.

85-unit timber-framed housing scheme by Peris + Toral Arquitectes wins prize for the worlds best new architecture, whileARCity wins International Emerging ArchitectSource: Peris + Toral ArquitectesModulus MatrixThe RIBA has awarded the 2024 RIBA International Prize to Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing in Cornell, an 85-unit timber-framed housing scheme by Peris + Toral Arquitectes. The prize, awarded biennially, recognises what RIBA describes as the worlds best new architecture.The project, located near Barcelona, Spain, was commissioned by IMPSOL (the Metropolitan Institute of Land Development and Property Management). It aims to challenge traditional housing typologies through a modular system of rooms, inspired by the 3.6m x 3.6mtatami mat proportions used in Japanese architecture. The six-storey buildings design is intended to create flexible, adaptable living arrangements, with no clear hierarchy between living spaces.RIBA President Muyiwa Oki characterised the project as an example of transformational spirit in social housing. He added: By embracing flexibility and longevity through long life, loose fit architecture, it is a radical approach to social housing that creates a place designed for people to adapt and inhabit in the long term.The building features 85 homes, with 18 apartments per floor. Each apartment comprises five or six modules, depending on the number of bedrooms, arranged to ensure cross ventilation and dual orientation.Central courtyards and exterior balconies aim to encourage social interaction among residents, while timber construction and modular systems were adopted to reduce construction time and environmental impact.Modulus MatrixSource: Peris + Toral ArquitectesModulus MatrixSource: Peris + Toral Arquitectes1/2show captionGrand jury chair Lu Wenyu praised the project for its innovative approach to social housing and its capacity to adapt to the shifting demands of societal groupings. She noted that the design encourages interaction and connection at both the individual and community levels, setting a precedent for future developments.Peris + Toral co-founders Marta Peris and Jose Toral reflected on the feedback from residents, noting initial scepticism towards features such as open kitchens and terrace access. Now they feel this way of living better adapts to their needs, Peris said.The shortlist for the 2024 RIBA International Prize also included Jacoby Studios by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin andLianzhou Museum of Photography by O-office Architects.Six Bricolage Houses by ARCitySource: BAI YuSix Bricolage Houses in Shenzhen by ARCitySource: Abstract Image1/2show captionRIBA also announced ARCity as the winner of its 2024 International Emerging Architect Award for Six Bricolage Houses in Shenzhen, China. The project is described as a model for urban renewal, combining formal and informal spaces within a historic urban village.The architects viewed their role as curatorial, selecting six self-built houses by villagers for targeted micro-updates and modifications.

Rayner issued an Article 31 holding directive against the scheme last week (19 November) after opponents raised concerns regarding the neighbouring Bevis Marks Synagogue and nearby Tower of London.She will now decide whether or not to call in the application. The directive prevents the City of Londons planning committee from making a decision in the meantime. The AJ understands the committee had been due to consider the application on 13 December.Stiff + Trevillions Bury Street scheme is for a 43-storey tower at 31-34 Bury Street for developer BentallGreenOak and specialist office fund Welput. The site is close to Foster + Partners Gherkin.AdvertisementPlans were submitted in January following the rejection of earlier designs in 2021 for a 48-storey tower on the site. The Citys planning committee rejected the previous application by 14 votes to 7 amid concerns over the overbearing and overshadowing impact on the Bevis Marks Synagogue and views of the Tower of London.Despite the design update, Stiff + Trevillions updated scheme has received more than 1,300 comments of objection, with campaigners raising similar concerns to the original application.Historic England has said the current plans are worse than the earlier version of the scheme from a heritage perspective, while a rabbi warned that the planning process had caused significant stress to the Jewish community.Objectors include chief rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, who said the proposed tower would reduce views from and significantly affect the natural light in Bevis Marks Synagogue, disrupting prayers and affecting the atmosphere inside.He added: The granting of permission to this proposal would therefore be a regrettable development with implications for rights of religious practice, precisely in the place where Jews first enjoyed these rights in England following the 17th-century resettlement. This would be a tragic irony.AdvertisementBevis Marks Synagogue rabbi Shalom Morris said he welcomed Rayner's intervention. He had previously said the planned tower puts at risk the core purpose of the Bevis Marks Synagogue as a fully functioning place of Jewish worship.He said: We welcome the intervention of the deputy prime minister on the threat to Bevis Marks Synagogue. The future of Bevis Marks Synagogue is now very much on the national agenda, as befits its Grade I-listed status and its historic role in British Jewry.Comments of objection to the scheme were also received from the Foundation for Jewish Heritage, the Board of Deputies of British Jews, former Cities of London and Westminster MP Nickie Aiken and former lord mayor of London, Michael Bear.Other consultees to object to the scheme include Historic Royal Palaces, the City of London Conservation Area Advisory Committee, Historic Buildings and Places, SAVE Britains Heritage, the Twentieth Century Society, the Victorian Society and the Georgian Group. Source:Stiff+TrevillionStiff+Trevillion's January 2024 Bury Street schemeThe surveyor to the fabric of St Pauls Cathedral, architect Oliver Caroe of Caroe Architecture, meanwhile expressed concern over the schemes impact on various heritage settings, and queried why an assessment of the towers damage to St Pauls had not been undertaken.Where the interest of St Pauls and those of Bevis Mark intersect is that this application before committee does not appear to be supported by sufficient or proportionate evidence and expertise in relation to the full and correct evaluation of the heritage context into which this major project protrudes, he said.SAVE said in a statement that the scheme had 'provoked widespread opposition and alarm', in response to Rayner's decision.The heritage group added: 'These highly controversial plans for a 43-storey tower right next to one of Europes most important religious and historic buildings have provoked widespread opposition and alarm.'Not only would the tower block out daylight and cast Bevis Marks synagogue into long shadows, but it would rip through this historic part of the city - only very recently designated a conservation area. It has triggered huge debate about how the City is protecting some of London's most precious buildings, and more widely its especially important conservation areas'.In response, a spokesperson for Welput echoed earlier comments to the AJ and said its latest scheme sought to maximise public benefits. The developer also said Stiff + Trevillion's design had been meaningfully reduced' as a result of the project team's 'respect' for the heritage of the site.They told the AJ: 'Welput issensitive to the concerns raised by Bevis Marks Synagogue and has commissioned many detailed reports throughout the consultation process to inform our application.''It is our steadfast commitment to maintaining an open and cooperative dialogue with all community stakeholders, including the Bevis Marks Synagogue, and to continue exploring constructive solutions that bring this exciting, community-driven project to fruition.'On the Article 31 direction, Welput said the decision was 'anticipated' and that it is 'ready to present the compelling attributes of our proposal to the Secretary of State as we have done with the Greater London Authority and The City of London Corporation.'No timeframe has been set for Rayners decision.